AUDIO: Andy Ruiz Jr. – Chris Arreola Post Fight Press Conference
Former Heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. had to shake off an early knockdown, but righted himself to win a 12-round unanimous decision over Chris Arreola in front of a restricted sellout of 3,940 fans at The Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
In round two, it was Arreola who landed a chopping right that sent former champ, Ruiz down to a knee. That was the high-point for Arreola as Ruiz was able to get in a rhythm and land hard three-punch combinations throughout that were mostly of the Jab/:eft-hook/Right Hand variety, Arreola seemed like he would be dangerous, but that was thwarted as in round eight, Arreola seemed to hurt his left shoulder after absorbing a right from Ruiz Ruiz was methodical down the stretch and boxed his way to a 118-110, 118-110 and 117-109 victory.
Ruiz landed 161 of 626 punches; Arreola was 109 of 521.
Ruiz, 256 lbs of Imperial, CA is 34-2. Arreola, 228.6 lbs of Los Angeles is 38-7-1.
ANDY RUIZ JR. “Chris is a veteran and a hard puncher. We did what we had to do tonight. We got the victory that we wanted. I was at my lowest point and now I have to climb the ladder again. I’m thankful for the victory and I’m ready to move on to the next.
“He got me with a good clean right hand in the second round. I was too overconfident and dropped my hand a bit. Hats off to him. We just kept pushing and pushing. I switched up and started focusing on counterpunching and working the body.
“I felt a little rust and I know other fighters can relate to that. If he wants to run it back, we’ll run it back with him.”
“I just have to get back to work. I learned a lot about throwing different combinations in training, but the rust showed in the ring. Arreola was very good tonight.
“When you go down, you just have to climb back up. That’s exactly what I did. I got dropped, but I got up and got the victory.
“I could have done a lot more. I couldn’t really find my distance, but some of that was Arreola doing a good job. I could have kept my hands up better, but I just need to get back in the gym and stay busy.
“I got a little overconfident in the early rounds. The most important thing was that we came back and got the victory.
“I’m going to stick around this weight, but I’m going to tighten everything up. I faced a strong veteran who knew exactly what he was doing.
“A fight against Luis Ortiz would be an exciting matchup. I have to get back to training so I can keep feeling better in the ring. I’m actually happy to get the 12 rounds in.”
CHRIS ARREOLA“I respect the judges, but I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder. He might have won, but don’t tell me I only won two or three rounds.
“I got hit in the shoulder and it kinda threw it off. It wasn’t a big deal though. It’s a part of boxing. I didn’t take too much punishment. I’m ready to run it back with Andy.”
“A lot of punches he threw were hitting my gloves. He never put me in danger. It’s dejecting to not get the respect from the judges that I feel I deserve.
“There’s no moral victory. I came here to beat Andy. He might have beat me, but I felt like he won seven rounds at the most.
“I give me and Joe a lot of credit. We trained hard for this fight. I did everything I had to do in the gym.
“I was a better fighter than Andy Ruiz expected. This version of Ruiz would knock Joshua out, but I was in great condition and ready for everything he had to offer.
“I absolutely hurt him, but Andy is a dangerous fighter. I didn’t want to get hit with a suckerpunch like Anthony Joshua.
Ramos stops Figueroa After 6
Abel Ramos dominated and beat up Omar Figueroa Jr as the fight was stopped after round six of their scheduled 12-round welterweight bout.
Ramos landed a plethora of hard shots on an awkward style of Figueroa, who would be holding his glove up on the side of face, Ramos started breaking down Figueroa in round five, as Figueroa was developing a mouse under his right eye. In round six, Ramos dominated Figueroa by landing hard thudding shots to the head of body. Figueroa was spitting up blood and the fight was stopped in the corner.
Ramos, 146.6 lbs of Casa Grande, AZ is 27-4-2 with 21 knockouts. Figueroa, 146.4 lbs of Weslaco, TX is 28-2-1.
ABEL RAMOS“Omar is a very tricky fighter. He has an awkward defense and it was hard to catch him clean at first, but the fight overall went as planned.
“I trained so hard for this fight. I knew my career was on the line. I knew I needed a win and I knew Omar would bring a good fight. I’m glad to be back on the winning side and I’m ready to take on the best of the division.
“We trained to attack the body. Our plan from the beginning was to pressure him. We wanted to score points to the body. I could hear him groaning and I knew once I hurt him bad, that the fight was over.
“I missed the feeling of the crowd cheering. My adrenaline was through the roof. They give you excitement and we missed that in boxing.”
Fundora Stops Cota in 4!
6’7″ Sebastian Fundora continues to be one of boxing’s most exciting and unique performer as he stopped Jorge Cota in round four of their scheduled 12-round junior middleweight fight.
The two stood toe-to-toe for the whole fight as they were winging and whaling shots on one another. In round two, Cota was cut on his nose. Fundora continued to lay a beating on a game Cota, who kept trying to fight back and land an ois fhccasional overhand shot. In round four, Fundora hurt Cota with chopping lefts and body shots. Cota was staggered but he was getting caught and the fight was stopped at 2:35.
Fundora, 152.8 lbs of Coachella, CA is 17-0-1 with 12 knockouts. Cota, 153.4 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is now 30-5.
SEBASTIAN FUNDORA“I’m extremely grateful to fight in front of the fans tonight. It was fun to hear the cheers, the boos and everything. I’m honored to be in this position.
“It was a good trading fight. We were hitting each other, but my punches were doing more damage and that’s why the referee stepped in. I think he could have been stopped earlier in the round. I just kept fighting until the end.
“I saw his leg wobble in the first round, but he took it and kept coming. The second time I saw it, I knew I had to go for the kill.
“My message to the rest of the division is that we’re here. If youre ready for war, we’re ready to take it. Bring it on.”
Ramos decisions Molina
Jesus Ramos remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Javier Molina in a welterweight bout.
Ramos was cut over his right eye in round six. In round seven, Molina was deducted a point for hitting behind the head.
Ramos landed 135 of 579 punches; Molina was 77 of 413.
Ramos, 150 lbs of Casa Grande, AZ won by scores of 99-90 twice and 97-92 and is now 16-0. Molina, 149.2 lbs of Norwalk, CA is 22-4.
JESUS RAMOS“It was my second time going the distance and that’s what we wanted. We love knockouts, but we’re glad at this point in my career that I got the experience. I thank Molina for taking the fight, he’s a great fighter.
“I might have been looking for a knockout too much in the early rounds. I got used to it and I settled down and I felt like I was breaking him down little by little. He was trying to survive a little bit, so it made it harder to get the knockout.
“I learned a lot today. I’m going to keep building on that. I feel like I have a lot of momentum. It was a big step up for me and I feel like I showed a lot. I showed I have good conditioning and good movement along with my power.
“My father told me to invite him to come to me. We were pressuring him to start. My dad had me change it up. He came in a little bit, but then he backed off. That’s how I tried to counteract his movement.”
Lara Knocks Out LaManna in 1; Wins Middleweight Title
Erislandy Lara won the WBA Middleweight title with a devastating 1st round knockout of Thomas LaManna.
Lara landed a huge left to the head that put LaManna on his back and the fight was stopped at 1:30.
Lara, 159.4 lbs of Guantanamo, CUB is 28-3-3 with 16 knockouts. LaManna, 159 lbs of Millville, NJ is 30-5-1.
ERISLANDY LARA – KO1 at 1:20
“He said at the press conference that he was going to knock me out, but he ran right into that punch. Maybe he was overthinking it all along.
“I felt strong and sharp tonight at middleweight, but I still want all of the big fights at 154-pounds too. I want the winner of the Jermell Charlo-Brian Carlos Castano unification fight. (WBC Middleweight Champion) Jermall Charlo is like family, we worked in the same gym for years, but this is a sport and I’d welcome the challenge.
“I feel great physically. I’m going to keep doing this until my body tells me I can’t do it anymore. I don’t feel like I’ve taken a lot of punishment in my career and I know I have at least another three years of my prime left.”
Ramirez Stops Avelar in 3; retains Interim Featherweight title
Eduardo Ramirez retained the WBA Interim Featherweight title with a third round stoppage over Isaac Avelar.
In round three, Ramirez dropped Avelar with a perfect right hook. Ramirez finished the fight woth another huge hook that rocked Avelar and the fight was called off at 1:16.
Ramirez, 125.4 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is 25-2-3 with 12 knockouts. Avelar, 125 lbs of Mexico is 17-3.
“I am beyond happy right now. I’m just elated and moved by having been able to fulfill the promise I made to my baby boy Eduardo Ramirez Jr. He just turned two years old and I wasn’t able to be there to give him a hug for his birthday, but I had promised him that I would bring the title back home to him as a gift, and that is exactly what I’m doing now.
“You have to have a stone-cold mindset, and that’s what we had to finish Avelar off. We were able to connect the right combinations to finish the fight off exactly how we wanted.
“This was a perfect coronation. To be honest, I would now like to have the chance to fight against Leo Santa Cruz. I previously fought against Miguel Flores, who barely lasted 4-5 rounds against me, but Leo couldn’t knock him out. This convincing knockout should be my ticket to have that opportunity”.
Adrian Granados and Jose Sanchez battled to a eight-round draw in a welt welterweight contest.
Granados took a card 77-75, while two cards were even at 76-76.
Granados, 146.6 lbs of Mexico City is 21-8-3. Sanchez, 146.2 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is 11-1-1.
Carlos Negron won a eight-round unanimous decision over Scott Alexander in a heavyweight bout.
Negron, 238. lbs of Villaba, PR won by scores of 79-73, 78-74 and 77-75 and is now 23-3. Alexander, 235 lbs of Los Angeles, CA is 16-4-2.
Anthony Garnica remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Jesse Bassie i a featherweight fight.
In round one, Garnica dropped Bazzi with a right hand.
Garnica, 125.2 lbs of San Francisco, CA won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 6-0. Bassie, 126.4 lbs of Deerborn, MI is 1-2.
Fernando Molina won a six-round unanimous decision over Prisco Marquez in a lightweight bout.
Molina landed 116 of 358 punches; Marquez was 44 of 264.
Molina, 133.6 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX won by 60-53 scores on all cards and is now 6-0. Marquez, 135 lbs of Liberal, KS is 4-3-1.
By Norm Frauenheim-
The heavyweight division, once revered, has been reduced to a rumor. Only Tyson Fury-Anthony Joshua seems to matter, despite mounting doubts about reported negotiations full of promises and short on specifics.
Joshua promoter Eddie Hearn says it will happen this summer.
Fury co-promoter Frank Warren says it won’t.
That’s where it started months ago.
That’s where it still is, although there’s a growing chorus of frustration from Fury and his American promoter Bob Arum, whose skepticism about a $150 million offer from Saudi Arabia was evident in multiple media reports this week.
A deal hinges on whether the money is really there. A deal – date and place – has yet to be announced, hence deepening suspicions that the offer is bupkis, just more dust in a Haboob.
Meanwhile, Fury has taken to social media and Hearn is his target. Fury, whose trash talk is as deadly as his jab, is ripping Hearn, saying that the UK promoter has cozied up to Canelo Alvarez in the Mexican’s title fight against UK super-middleweight Billy Joe Saunders on May 8 in Arlington, Tex.
For the May fight, at least, Hearn is the promoter of record for both. But Fury is questioning his allegiances, which means Hearn is probably as popular as a piñata back home in Britain.
Such is that state of the heavyweights, a flagship as rudderless as ever. Yet, chaos at the top hasn’t silenced it.
Andy Ruiz Jr. and Chris Arreola, Joe Parker and Derek Chisora will do what Fury and Joshua may — may not — do.
They’re fighting Saturday, Ruiz (33-2, 22 KOs) versus Arreola (38-6-1, 33 KOs) in Carson, Calif., on Fox pay-per-view (9 pm ET/6 pm PT) and Parker (28-2, 21 KOs) against Chisora (32-10, 23 KOs) in Manchester, England, on Sky Sports Box Office.
Both fights are interesting. Both are linked. Both Ruiz and Parker are ex-champions.
Ruiz, the first heavyweight champ of Mexican descent, is the most memorable for his stunning stoppage of Joshua at New York’s Madison Square Garden in June 2019. He’s also the most forgettable for his messy loss in a rematch six months later in Saudi Arabia.
Ruiz blamed the scorecard defeat on lousy conditioning. He was about 30 pounds heavier than he is expected to be Saturday in his first bout with Canelo trainer Eddy Reynoso. Ruiz described the defeat as a kind of “self-death’’ during a news conference Wednesday.
“I killed the old Andy and am reborn with the new Andy,” he said.
It was a good line from Ruiz who looked to be re-energized if not resurrected. At 31, Ruiz still has a chance to be a player at heavyweight if –as expected – he beats the 40-year-old Arreola. Perhaps, a Parker rematch awaits Ruiz, who emerged as a contender in a narrow loss – majority decision – to Parker for a vacant World Boxing Organization title in 2016 in Auckland, Parker’s hometown.
At least, it’s real instead of rumor. No telling what happens to the Fury-Joshua possibility.
Put it this way: Fury expects to take a day off from his training regimen in Las Vegas Saturday. He plans to be in Louisville at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby. The 20-horse field includes a horse named for him after his stoppage of Deontay Wilder in a rematch in February 2020.It’s beginning to look as if the horse, King Fury, a 20-to-1 longshot, has a better chance of winning the Derby than Joshua-Fury has at happening anytime soon.
CARSON, CALIF. (April 29, 2021) – Fighters competing on this Saturday’s stacked FOX Sports Pay-Per-View undercard and FOX PBC Fight Night event previewed their respective showdowns during a press conference Thursday before they step into the ring at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California in the event headlined by former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. taking on all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola.
Featured at Thursday’s press conference and competing in pay-per-view action were former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa Jr. and Abel Ramos, who meet in the co-main event, sensation super welterweight Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and Jorge “El Demonio” Cota, who face off in a 12-round duel, and rising unbeaten Jesus Ramos and Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina, who battle to kick off the pay-per-view at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
The press conference also featured WBA Super Welterweight Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara and Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna, who headline FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes in a battle for the WBA Middleweight title. Rounding out Thursday’s press conference participants were top Mexican featherweight contenders Eduardo Ramirez and Isaac Avelar, who duel in the co-main event of the FOX broadcast beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.
The press conference was streamed live on the Premier Boxing Champions YouTube page, and can be watched HERE.
The May 1 event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
FOX SPORTS PBC PAY-PER-VIEW UNDERCARD QUOTES
OMAR FIGUEROA JR.
“I’m really thankful to my team for believing in me and everyone who helped me along the way. I’m going to show everyone my very best in the ring on May 1.
“We had a wonderful training camp. I’m finally healthy. We had a camp like I used to have 10 years ago when I was just a young kid full of hope. Everything has gone great.
“I’ve gotten rid of all the bad stuff physically that was looming over me in recent years. We had no distractions in training camp, we were able to just work.
“I go in there to end fights as soon as possible. With that mentality, I’m going to make sure he’s not making it to the sixth round.
“I’m going to show that same aggression like I always do on Saturday, but more refined. I’m going to be a much more efficient fighter.”
ABEL RAMOS
“I’m happy to be here and I’m excited to kick off Cinco de Mayo festivities with this great card. I can’t wait for all of these fights, as well as my own.
“This is the type of exciting fight the fans are going to enjoy. When I was kid, I always wanted to watch these kind of close combat matchups. That’s what we’re going to have on Saturday. Whoever wants it more is going to win this fight.
“I can’t wait to see the fight between my nephew Jesus and Javier Molina. It’s going to be explosive. I’ll just have to keep my excitement at a normal level, because I’m still going to have to go out there and perform myself.”
SEBASTIAN FUNDORA
“I’m thrilled to be here and fighting in front of fans. It’s exciting to have fans there Saturday to watch us at one of the meccas of boxing.
“We’ve had two great camps for Cota, so we’re prepared for anything he’s going to bring. I would tell Cota to bring his best, because we’re coming to win.
“We trained to get the knockout. My dad always tells me not to leave it to the judges and that’s what we’re going to do Saturday.
“I love that Cota comes forward. He says he’s planning to make it a war and that’s what I’m ready for. I wouldn’t expect anything less from another Mexican warrior.
“It’s in my blood to fight toe-to-toe. We Mexicans have the pride of the warrior. I just love to mix it up.”
JORGE COTA
“I just want to show what I’m capable of on Saturday. I’m always eager to go and I feel as prepared as ever for this fight.
“Fighting someone undefeated like Fundora motivates me a lot. These are the challenges that I live for. I’m up for a fight like this anytime, anywhere.
“This fight is going to steal the show. I stand by what I said last time in regard to knocking him out. I don’t think there’s any way this fight goes 12 rounds.
“There is no message to send right now. My message is going to be plenty clear on Saturday night.”
JESUS RAMOS
“This is going to be a tough fight. He’s got a lot of experience. I expect nothing less from him than a great fight, but I’m prepared. I’m ready for the best Javier Molina.
“I feel like I’m ready for this big step up. To get to the next level, I have to beat guys like Javier Molina. I’m prepared for this level of competition.
“It’s huge for my family to have me and Abel share this card. We used to watch the pay-per-views together and now we’re a part of one. It’s big and I can’t wait for Saturday.
“The Mexican fans tuning in to kick off Cinco de Mayo week are going to be in for a treat. It’s going to be a great fight. I’m coming to win. If the knockout presents itself, we’re taking advantage of the opportunity.”
JAVIER MOLINA
“I’m excited to be fighting a good young fighter Saturday. I’ve been training hard for two months getting ready for it. I can’t wait to put on a show in front of my people so close to my hometown.
“Ramos is a good undefeated fighter. A win over him will get me to the next level and that’s what we’re looking to do on Saturday.
“My experience is definitely going to play a role in this fight. We’ve watched his fights. He has a lot of talent, but he hasn’t been in there with anyone of my class. I know he’s hungry though, so I have to be 100% prepared.
“He has a good team behind him, so I’m not too focused on if he’s ready to go the distance. I just have to be ready to do my job. Whether it’s a decision or knockout, we’re getting the win.”
FOX PBC FIGHT NIGHT QUOTES
ERISLANDY LARA
“We are so ready for this fight on Saturday. We’re going to see how this fight goes, but no matter what, my goal is to put on a great show for the fans.
“I have talked about moving up to 160-pounds for a while. My team asked if I was ready and I jumped on the opportunity. I’m open to big fights at 154-pounds, but right now, I’m going after the middleweight crown.
“I came here to fight. If he’s coming to knock me out, then I’m coming to take him out first. I’m excited for this fight. Everyone has tried to knock me out, we’ll see if he has what it takes.
“I have plenty of experience, and he can say whatever he wants, but I’m going to be ready. I’m looking to knock him out in round four or sooner.”
THOMAS LAMANNA
“I’m grateful for this opportunity. I trained my entire life for this one moment. Every fighter dreams of becoming world champion and Saturday I’m going to fulfill those dreams. It’s going to be a huge statement.
“I’m fighting a bonafide world champion, but at the end of the day, I’m hungrier than him. I want this more than anything. I’ve trained hard for the last nine weeks to make sure I secure that victory. No matter what it takes, I will become champion on Saturday.
“I’m hoping the fans see that I belong at this high level. I belong here. Win, lose or draw, I’m going to earn that respect.
“I’m coming to knockout Erislandy Lara. That’s the goal and that’s what I’m going to accomplish. This is my one shot, and I’m going for it.”
EDUARDO RAMIREZ
“I want to let everyone know that I’m ready to put on a show Saturday night. I’m going to keep piling up the wins with this fight against Avelar.
“We’re ready for an explosive fight. But we’ll be ready for anything as well. I can pressure and attack, but if the circumstances dictate it, we’ll be ready to take a step back and take our time.
“It’s going to be a great fight and like always, I expect myself to come out with a win. I’m ready to get the win no matter what I have to do.”
ISAAC AVELAR
“I’m really motivated and excited to give my all in the ring on Saturday night. I’m going to leave everything in there against Eduardo Ramirez.
“I’m thrilled to be competing on this card. This is a great event and a great opportunity for me to showcase what I’m capable of in this fight. I’m ready to show everyone what I can do.
“People can expect this to be an exciting fight. We both want this belt and we both want to win. We’re going to give it our all and provide the fans with a great show.”
ABOUT FOX SPORTS PBC PPV: RUIZ VS. ARREOLA
Ruiz vs. Arreola will see former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz, Jr. battle all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare’’ Arreola in the main event of an all-Mexican boxing extravaganza on Saturday, May 1 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. clashing with Abel Ramos in the 12-round welterweight co-main event. Sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora takes on hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota in a 12-round battle and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos duels U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina for 10-rounds of welterweight action in the pay-per-view opener.
The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View is priced at $49.99. Buy now on foxsports.com/ppv and watch on any screen!
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
CARSON, CALIF. (April 28, 2021) – Former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola went face-to-face Wednesday at the final press conference before they meet in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event this Saturday, May 1 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
In addition to airing on FS1, the press conference was streamed live on the Premier Boxing Champions YouTube page, and can be watched HERE.
The all-Mexican pay-per-view boxing extravaganza begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with three fan-friendly undercard bouts leading up to the heavyweight main event. The showdown between the two most accomplished Mexican heavyweights in boxing history will leave the winner one step closer to a heavyweight title.
The May 1 event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
ANDY RUIZ JR.
“I was at 310 pounds when I started this camp. We started losing weight slowly but surely. People are wondering if I’m still going to have the same power after losing weight, but I’ve been working hard for this moment and the power is definitely staying with me.
“It’s motivating to be looking at Chris right now. I haven’t seen him in a long time. Now we finally have the chance to give the fans what they want to see Saturday night. It’s going to be a privilege.
“Everyone has a plan until they get hit in the face. We both have to do our business in there. I’m praying to be victorious and for both of us to come out healthy. The better man will win on Saturday night.
“I believe I have the fastest hands at heavyweight. I’m not where I want to be at right now, but I’m a lot better than where I was. I have so much to prove starting Saturday night.
“The lack of discipline that I had before training with Eddy Reynoso has been the biggest difference heading into this fight. You can’t play boxing. You have to stay ready always. That’s one of the main things that I’ve focused on, in addition to perfecting every movement I make in the ring.
“The game plan is always to be victorious. We have little strategies and combinations that we’re perfecting. I’m making sure I’m throwing punches the right way. I appreciated every trainer that I’ve had, and I learned something from all of them, but I feel like being in camp with Eddy was the best move for me.
“Right now I’m motivated. I killed the old Andy and a new Andy was born. I have a lot to prove. I let a lot of people down, and that’s why I had to make big changes to myself. I know what I’m capable of doing and I know what I can accomplish. I have it inside of me to become the Mexican two-time heavyweight champion of the world.
“Chris is a strong man. He comes forward, he takes punches and he gives punches. My speed and the combinations that I’ve been working on in the gym are going to throw him off a little bit.
“It’s going to be an all action fight. We both came here to win. God willing we get this victory and all the sacrifice we gave are going to pay off. I just have to do my job.
“Eddy made a really big difference for me. He’s helped my motivation and confidence. Without that discipline, I don’t think I would have been in this shape.
“I want the heavyweight title even more now. It’s because of the way I lost. I Imagine that if I had been in this shape, I would have won the rematch with Joshua. Things happen for a reason and I’m just happy that I have the mindset that I have now.
“My natural speed and counter punching is going to overwhelm Arreola in the ring. I’m not the same fighter who sparred him when I was 16-years-old.
“After my defeat against Joshua, I know that I have to prove to a lot of people, and also to myself, that all my dedication will pay off in the ring. I know Chris Arreola is here to knock my head off, just like I’m trying to do to him. Once we’re inside that ring, the switch will be on, because we’re both trying to provide for our family.”
CHRIS ARREOLA
“I feel very rejuvenated heading into this fight. I’m excited and ready to go. Today is just a press conference, but just seeing Andy today gets my blood going, because I’m ready to fight right now.
“I always want to win, but facing someone like Andy, who’s accomplished what he has, can add another notch to my belt. He’s the man that beat the man, so I want to beat that man.
“We’re heavyweights, so as long as we’re over 200 pounds, every punch is going to hurt. This is the hurt business. He’s a skillful fighter and I’m ready for what he has to offer.
“I’ve worked so hard, but I haven’t been trying to just lose weight specifically. The hard work has showed in my body and it’s going to show on Saturday.
“Ruiz and Adam Kownacki are very different fighters. With Adam, we just slugged it out. With Andy, I have to be aware at all times. He has some of the fastest hands in the division. I have to make sure I move my head, because this is going to be a great fight.
“I know what my trainer Joe Goossen wants me to do. I know he wants me to work hard every time at every moment. He’s always watching me, so I can’t take a round off in the gym. There’s no substitute for hard work and I appreciate that from Joe.
“This fight isn’t personal in the fact that I dislike Andy. I have a lot of respect for Andy, and that’s why I trained extra hard. This is going to be one of those battles of attrition. This is a fight that I need to win for my legacy.
“I haven’t separated myself from my family during camp to the extent that I did for this fight before. I had to make sure I had nothing but Andy on my mind. I had to put my best foot forward every day. This is a mountain of a man, and I don’t mean his size, I mean his strength and all-around skill.
“I’ve worked nonstop on defense with Joe. That’s definitely something we emphasized. I’m going to counter punch and make sure I bring those hands back. All I know is, I’m going to give Ruiz war and a great fight.
“Saturday’s coming and I can’t wait. I put the hard work in at the gym and Saturday is time to showcase it. We’re going to leave our friendship aside once we step into the ring. That friendship is out the door until that last bell rings.”
ABOUT FOX SPORTS PBC PPV: RUIZ VS. ARREOLA
Ruiz vs. Arreola will see former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz, Jr. battle all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare’’ Arreola in the main event of an all-Mexican boxing extravaganza on Saturday, May 1 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. clashing with Abel Ramos in the 12-round welterweight co-main event. Sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora takes on hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota in a 12-round battle and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos duels U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina for 10-rounds of welterweight action in the pay-per-view opener.
The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View is priced at $49.99. Buy now on foxsports.com/ppv and watch on any screen!
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
CARSON, CALIF. (April 28, 2021) – Ahead of this Saturday’s showdown between the two greatest Mexican-American heavyweights in boxing history, a star-studded lineup of Mexican legends, champions, contenders and more shared their thoughts on the matchup between former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola.
This lineup includes quotes from Erik Morales, Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez, to name just a few of the Mexican stars excited for this heavyweight clash.
Ruiz vs. Arreola will top a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. The all-Mexican boxing extravaganza features three additional pay-per-view undercard fights that will pit Mexican and Mexican-American fighters against each other in fan-friendly matchups.
The May 1 affair will kick off Cinco de Mayo week, a holiday that has long been synonymous with Mexican boxing greats, a tradition that Ruiz and Arreola both look forward to continuing when they square off.
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
Here is what various Mexican and Mexican-American boxing legends, athletes, world champions, rising contenders and top trainers had to say about the importance of Saturday’s matchup, what it meant to them for Ruiz to become the first Mexican heavyweight champion and what the loyal Mexican boxing fans can expect on Saturday night:
Erik Morales, Hall of Famer:
“I had goosebumps watching the first fight between Andy Ruiz and Anthony Joshua, because this was the first time that a Mexican fighter won the heavyweight championship.
“Ruiz was a 15-to-1 underdog against Joshua, so that means that virtually no one expected him to win. And then, the fashion within which he won the title – rising from a third-round knockdown to stop Joshua – that made an even more impressive victory.”
Canelo Alvarez, Undefeated four-division champion:
“Andy Ruiz’s victory over Anthony Joshua was spectacular. He won in force, he was the best and he deserves all of the credit, proving there are many examples of elite boxers from Mexico.
“Andy reached out to me after the loss to Joshua. I consulted with Eddy Reynoso, and we agreed to help him, but we told him that the one thing we required was discipline. Andy has demonstrated a lot of that. Andy has done absolutely everything that Eddy has asked of him, from improving his defense to his head and waist movement, and he’s got very quick hands and punches with power.
“It’s great that Andy became the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent, but now, it’s important to return to the top of the division. So this is a significant fight. With Andy facing Chris Arreola, this is the first time that two, high quality Mexican heavyweights are going at it. Arreola will bring aggression, but I expect a very quick knockout victory from Andy.”
Jorge de la Rosa, Former MLB Pitcher from Monterrey, Mexico:
“This is Andy Ruiz’s time to shine. He has the power and speed needed to catch Arreola by surprise, but it won’t be easy. It will be an amazing fight both for them and the fans. It’s going to be the all-action fight that we all crave and need in Los Angeles, a city that is very Mexican and has had a lot of memorable fights.”
David Benavidez, Undefeated two-time super middleweight champion:
“I’m very excited for Andy Ruiz to fight Chris Arreola, first of all, because, personally, I know both of these guys are good dudes who are going to go to war heading into the second half of their careers.
“Arreola was in contention for the heavyweight title for quite a while, and then, Ruiz stepped up and made history with a knockout of Anthony Joshua that made him the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent.
“To be honest, I didn’t really want to watch the Joshua fight because everyone felt Ruiz had very little chance of winning. But when Ruiz got knocked down, got up and knocked out Joshua, that was probably one of the greatest moments in Mexican boxing history.
“Now Ruiz is working out alongside Canelo Alvarez, who has gone all the way up to light heavyweight. Between the two of them, they’ve demonstrated that anything is possible for Mexican fighters like me to accomplish championships at the higher weight divisions.”
Mario Barrios, Undefeated WBA World Super Lightweight Champion:
“This is a tough fight to predict for me because I like both guys. Chris Arreola and Andy Ruiz are both in great shape, so this fight is going to be explosive. I’m picking Ruiz by split decision in a very entertaining showdown. Cinco de Mayo is going to be off the charts this year with a big fight like this leading the way.”
Abner Mares, Former three-division world champion / boxing analyst:
“Andy Ruiz and Chris Arreola are exciting fighters to watch in their own right, and for them to be headlining an All-Mexican card as Mexican-American heavyweights is a historic precedent.
“Given the fact that we’ve had limited live shows since the start of the pandemic, it’s a real treat for all of us to have boxing return to the Los Angeles area. People are really excited, and I’m thrilled about an All-Mexican card being headlined by two Mexican-American heavyweights.
“Chris Arreola served as a trailblazer for Mexican heavyweights with his three appearances in championship fights, and Andy Ruiz shocked the world by knocking out Anthony Joshua to become the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent.
“When Ruiz did that, I remember what I was doing and where I was when it happened. Being honest, though, I wasn’t expecting that, even though I wanted to tune in because I’ve known Andy Ruiz since he was a kid.
“My wife was having an event at her store, but the Joshua-Ruiz fight was being televised in a place across the street. So I went over there. I saw Ruiz go down, and I thought, ‘Well, fight is over.’ But then Ruiz got up and knocked Joshua down and eventually won the fight.
“I remember getting up, jumping up and down like a little kid, and, running around saying to people, ‘Oh my God, did you see what just happened?’ I was pointing it out to people like, ‘Hey, we have a new Mexican heavyweight champion’.”
Raul Marquez, Former super welterweight world champion:
“When Andy Ruiz first challenged Anthony Joshua for the heavyweight title, I was in the living watching it with my wife. I told her, ‘You see that fat boy? That fat boy’s going to win.’
“But I was saying that as a joke, because, at that point, I was really thinking ‘There’s no way.’ As soon as the fight began, Ruiz had some moments, but then, Joshua dropped him and I said, ‘Aw, man, it’s going to be over.’
“But Ruiz took his shots and he came back and stopped Joshua. I’m going to be honest with you, I was crying. I was so happy for Ruiz because I was happy and excited that we finally had a Mexican heavyweight champion of the world.
“When you’re talking Mexican fighters, they’re usually the smaller guys like Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Juan Manuel Marquez. Even I was pretty big being a super welterweight, and it was rare that you’d see any bigger.
“It was very rare that you’d see Mexicans in higher weights, but now, you have Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez. I came up with John Ruiz in the amateurs, and he became the first Puerto Rican heavyweight champion, which at the time was huge for Latinos.”
Eddy Reynoso, Trainer of Canelo Alvarez & Andy Ruiz Jr.:
“Andy Ruiz has given so much time and has been so dedicated to his work inside the gym. We’re excited for May 1. He is motivated and learning a lot every day. We know that on May 1 we’re going to be dealing with an aggressive fighter who is going to bring his best.
“Andy is excited about the challenge that Arreola presents. May 1 is going to be the second beginning of Andy’s career. This is the start of his pursuit to become champion again. We respect Arreola, but we’re going to go in there to get the job done on May 1.”
Omar Figueroa, Jr., Former world champion / welterweight contender:
“I’m honored to be a part of a show of this magnitude, especially an action-packed, All-Mexican card with the historical precedent of being headlined by two, Mexican-American heavyweights in Andy Ruiz and Chris Arreola.
“Neither of these guys looks to run around the ring, so you know that Arreola’s always going to bring it, and that Ruiz loves to fight. You’re going to see two guys setting off fireworks from beginning to end.”
Sebastian Fundora, Undefeated super welterweight contender:
“Andy Ruiz has been in the sport for a long time and he’s had a tremendous amateur background, so when it happened that he beat Anthony Joshua to become the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent, honestly, I wasn’t surprised.
“But not everyone expected it because there are no other Mexican fighters, other than Chris Arreola, who have been able to succeed as a heavyweight. So for Ruiz to become the first was a true milestone for our Mexican culture.
“Now the fact you have two Mexican-American heavyweight fighters going against each other is incredible, and the fact that I have an opportunity to fight on their undercard is a great opportunity to showcase the fact that I’m another great, up-and-coming Mexican fighter. I believe that every fighter on this All-Mexican card is thinking the same thing, which is that we’re going to bring fans non-stop, action-packed, knockout excitement.”
Abel Ramos, Welterweight contender:
“Andy Ruiz versus Chris Arreola is a top of the line heavyweight clash of Mexicans between two guys who fit into the tradition that you can never count a Mexican out of a fight. I remember watching Arreola while growing up.
“I really believed in Arreola as being the first one that gave us hope that there can be a Mexican heavyweight champion. Even now with Arreola, you can never count him out. But Ruiz is an extremely talented fighter who has never been knocked out or stopped.”
Jesus Ramos, Undefeated welterweight prospect:
“Growing up I watched Chris Arreola’s career and his quest to become the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent, but now, it’s crazy that he’s up against Andy Ruiz, who accomplished what Arreola wasn’t able to do in three tries.
“I remember meeting Ruiz in Los Angeles before his fight with Anthony Joshua, and he was a very humble, cool dude. So when I watched Ruiz get knocked down against Joshua, I was really worried and sad.
“But he came back and stopped Joshua, which was very exciting and an inspiration by representing all of us who are Mexican fans. I’ve been watching Ruiz’s videos, and you can tell he’s a more focused and determined fighter. Arreola’s a tough warrior and he’s always in exciting fights, but Ruiz looks extremely determined and motivated.”
Jorge Cota, Super Welterweight contender:
“The Andy Ruiz-Chris Arreola fight is going to be a matchup of savagery, because they’re big, strong Mexican heavyweights who are warriors with heart who are determined to win.
“Before Ruiz knocked out Anthony Joshua, everyone on the entire planet was counting him out, not only because he was the underdog, but because he took the fight on short notice as a replacement and didn’t have much time to prepare.
“But when I saw that he knocked out Joshua, I was as shocked as anyone at his display of courage and that typical, never quit Mexican mentality. With Ruiz’s matchup against Arreola, you’re going to see two Mexicans in a vicious war.”
Eduardo Ramirez, Featherweight contender:
“As a fan of the sport and a Mexican fighter myself, I can hardly wait to see the Andy Ruiz-Chris Arreola battle of heavyweights. It’s a historic, exciting fight between two massive men who will throw a ton of punches in advance of Cinco De Mayo. Their styles are perfect for one another, and Arreola’s going to bring it because it’s probably his last shot to crack the top of the division.”
Brandon Figueroa, Undefeated WBA World Super Bantamweight Champion:
“Andy Ruiz-Chris Arreola is a historic clash between two of the most accomplished heavyweight fighters in the history of the sport. It’s an incredible event between a former champion, Ruiz, and a guy in Arreola who tried to win three times before him.
“Growing up, I heard about the smaller Mexican legends like Julio Cesar Chavez, Marco Antonio Barrera and Juan Manuel Marquez. But now, we’re talking about heavyweights, which is a different type of toe-to-toe fireworks, which had been unheard of in the Mexican tradition.
“Arreola’s a great fighter and he’s accomplished a lot, but Ruiz is the younger of the two and carries more speed, power and skills. It’s going to be a war.”
Omar Figueroa, Sr., Trainer and father of undefeated super bantamweight champion Brandon Figueroa:
“The fact that Andy Ruiz and Chris Arreola are fighting one another as Mexican-American heavyweights is definitely a rarity. Arreola’s been there three times, but Ruiz is more in his prime.
“It’s going to be an exciting fight between two Mexican-American punchers and they’re going to go at it, but Ruiz has shown a lot more heart, particularly in rising from the canvas to stop Anthony Joshua and becoming the first-ever Mexican heavyweight champion.
“There were not a lot of people who thought Ruiz could do that to Joshua because of the way they both looked, physically, the result surprised everybody and had a great impact on the Mexican culture.”
Robert Guerrero, Former two-division champion:
“This is going to be a historic event with two top Mexican heavyweights going to war. This is rare, and I’ll be tuning in and so should every Mexican boxing fan out there. This will not be a boring fight, and you can take that to the bank.”
Joel Diaz, Trainer of former world champion Omar Figueroa Jr.:
“For Andy Ruiz to win a championship meant a lot, because the Mexican and Latino fans are very strong, and for Ruiz to become the heavyweight champion by knockout over Anthony Joshua, that’s incredibly attractive.
“Never did I ever think that I’d see a Mexican heavyweight champion, and for us, as Mexicans, it was like a gift to the historic culture. For Ruiz and Chris Arreola to be headlining an action-packed, All-Mexican card, right before Cinco De Mayo, is what Mexican fans need.
“It’s going to be a night of fireworks for the fans and a truly historic night for the world to see two Mexican heavyweights colliding. Arreola’s not going to be an easy night for Ruiz because he’s a three-time title challenger who is a warrior who will give anybody a difficult fight.”
Daniel Roman, Former unified super bantamweight world champion:
“Andy Ruiz against Chris Arreola is a historic event matching two Mexican heavyweights that should be celebrated by our culture. From what I’ve seen from Ruiz, he’s taking it very seriously.
“Every time you have a Mexican against a Mexican, you know it’s going to be a war. So then you add to it that they’re headlining an all-Mexican-American card within a week of Cinco De Mayo, and you know that there are going to be non-stop fireworks from the start to the finish.”
Freddy Fundora, Trainer and father of undefeated super welterweight contender Sebastian Fundora:
“It’s an anomaly for two Mexican heavyweights to be fighting, especially with one of them being a former champion in Andy Ruiz, and the other, Chris Arreola, who fought for the title three times.
“Mexican-Americans are not usually that big, so it’s unheard of and rare that you have two Mexicans that big who are fighting one another. But each of them has an exciting, aggressive style, so, in the culture’s great tradition, there are going to be fireworks.”
Omar Juarez, Undefeated super lightweight prospect:
“This is going to be a great action fight with a lot of big punches being thrown by two big Mexican heavyweights. This is the perfect fight leading into Cinco de Mayo weekend and I’ll be watching closely with family and friends.”
Jose Benavidez Sr., Trainer and father of undefeated two-time super middleweight champion David Benavidez:
“My thought on the entire card is that it’s a historic event and to have it live in the Los Angeles area is a treat for all of the Mexican fans and for the Latino fans in general.
“Andy Ruiz and Chris Arreola are exciting in all of their fights, and for two of the best Mexican-American heavyweights of their generation to be fighting each other on an All-Mexican American card is amazing and unheard of to this point. During his career, Arreola was among my favorite fighters.
“I thought at one point that Arreola was going to do what Andy Ruiz did, and I believe that Arreola still has a lot of gas in the tank. Ruiz is coming off of that loss in his rematch with Anthony Joshua after beating Joshua by shocking the world.
“I believe that it’s going to be an impressive, exciting fight where you’ll see Arreola bring his all. But I also believe that Ruiz wants so badly to be heavyweight champion once again, so he’s re-dedicated, motivated, strong, sharp, transformed and looking to win in spectacular fashion.”
John Molina Jr., Two-time world title challenger:
“Andy Ruiz-Chris Arreola is an anomaly of a fight because it’s a clash of Mexican-American heavyweights who have had exposure to championship fights. Of course, Ruiz dethroned Anthony Joshua by knockout for the title before losing their rematch by decision.
“That made Ruiz, for a time, the first-ever heavyweight champion of Mexican descent, this, after Arreola set the stage by fighting for the title three times but losing to Vitali Klitschko, Bermane Stiverne and Deontay Wilder.
“Both Ruiz and Arreola bring that traditional Mexican style to the table, and for that reason, it’s going to a highly entertaining, fan-friendly fight between warriors.”
Juan Macias Montiel, Middleweight contender:
“When Andy Ruiz came back to beat Anthony Joshua and to become the first man of Mexican descent to become a heavyweight champion, he did something that was unprecedented and so special for the Mexican community.
“Boxing for Mexicans is everything, and with my uncle, Fernando, being a retired former champion, Ruiz’s victory meant so much to my family. When Ruiz fights Arreola on May 1, you will see two of the best Mexican-American heavyweights in the history of the sport.
“Ruiz is under a new trainer in Eddy Reynoso, and Arreola’s in his second fight with Joe Goossen. They will do battle on May 1, kicking off the Cinco De Mayo weekend in what could be a make or break fight and the last shot for both men.”
Bob Santos, Trainer:
“When you think of Mexicans in boxing, you don’t think of seeing the bigger guys. You think of the smaller, legendary fighters like Julio Cesar Chavez, Salvador Sanchez and Juan Manuel Marquez. There have been bigger guys like Oscar De La Hoya, and, lately, Canelo Alvarez.
“As the product of a Puerto Rican-Mexican union as far as my parents, I have an appreciation for John Ruiz becoming the first Hispanic to hold a heavyweight title, and for him winning an all-Puerto Rican battle with his 11th-round knockout of Fres Oquendo.
“But it doesn’t get any bigger than Ruiz versus Arreola, which is huge as a fight between two, Mexican-American heavyweights as far as the tradition of Mexicans going to war with that ‘Never-say-die attitude’.”
Angel Barrientes, Super bantamweight prospect:
“When I think of the legendary Mexican fighters I watched growing up, you’re talking Julio Cesar Chavez, and Canelo Alvarez. I looked up to those fighters and so many others.
“But It’s rare to see a Mexican heavyweight fighter, so it’s definitely exciting that we’re going to be able to watch two of them fighting each other in Andy Ruiz and Chris Arreola. They’re both strong, big, accomplished, powerful punchers who are going to put on a great fight.”
Chavez Barrientes, Undefeated super bantamweight prospect:
“Andy Ruiz and Chris Arreola are going to put on a great fight being two Mexican-American heavyweights who have a reputation for really going at it, so it’s going to be a war.
“They’re both going to be hungry to pour their hearts out in the ring and to put on a great fight for the Mexican history books. Arreola’s still got a lot left, but he’s older, and Ruiz is the younger, hungrier fighter right now. So I feel like there will be a lot of action early on from Arreola, but that Ruiz will build momentum in the second half of the fight.”
ABOUT FOX SPORTS PBC PPV: RUIZ VS. ARREOLA
Ruiz vs. Arreola will see former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz, Jr. battle all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare’’ Arreola in the main event of an all-Mexican boxing extravaganza on Saturday, May 1 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. clashing with Abel Ramos in the 12-round welterweight co-main event. Sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora takes on hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota in a 12-round battle and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos duels U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina for 10-rounds of welterweight action in the pay-per-view opener.
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View is priced at $49.99. Buy now on foxsports.com/ppv and watch on any screen!
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
ARSON, CALIF. (April 27, 2021) – An action-packed lineup of undercard attractions will enter the ring as part of a stacked boxing extravaganza headlined by former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. taking on all-action Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event this Saturday, May 1 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
Portions of the undercard will be broadcast for free on the FOX Sports app and FOXsports.com starting at 4:40pm ET/1:40 p.m. PT. The undercard feed will also be made available to the PBC on FOX YouTube, Twitter and Facebook pages. Ray Flores and Félix DeJesús will be on the call.
Undercard attractions will feature hard-hitting Adrian “El Tigre” Granados in an eight-round welterweight bout against Jose Sanchez, Puerto Rican Olympian Carlos Negron taking on Scott Alexander in an eight-round heavyweight clash, rising prospect Fernando Molina facing Prisco Marquez in a lightweight fight and unbeaten prospect Anthony Garnica dueling Jesse Bazzi for four-rounds of featherweight action.
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
The FOX Sports Pay-Per-View begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Preceding the pay-per-view, FOX PBC Fight Night will begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and be headlined by WBA Super Welterweight Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara seeking a third title in a second weight class when he takes on Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna for the WBA Middleweight Title.
Granados (21-8-2, 15 KOs) has battled a slew of accomplished super lightweights and welterweights over the course of his career including Shawn Porter, Adrien Broner, Danny Garcia and most recently Robert Easter Jr. in October 2019. The 31-year-old from Mexico City, Mexico owns an upset knockout victory over then-unbeaten Amir Imam and returned to the ring in February 2020 to stop Arturo Herrera in two rounds. He will be opposed by Albuquerque, New Mexico’s Sanchez (11-1, 4 KOs), who owns a nine-fight winning streak heading into this step up against the veteran Granados. The 28-year-old has fought professionally since 2012 and delivered three victories in 2019, including a fifth-round TKO of Joe Gomez.
A 2008 Olympian from Villalba, Puerto Rico, Negron (22-3, 18 KOs) fights out of Miami, Florida and enters this bout the winner of back-to-back contests. Negron stopped the previously unbeaten Robert Alfonso in March 2020, before most recently knocking out Rafael Rios in November 2020. He faces the 32-year-old Alexander (16-3-2, 8 KOs), who has also won back-to-back fights entering May 1. The Los Angeles-native Alexander has won four of his last five fights overall dating back to 2016.
The 18-year-old Molina (5-0, 3 KOs) first turned pro in August 2019, scoring stoppage victories in his first two fights, before a successful U.S. debut saw him defeat Jose Zaragoza by decision in November 2020. A native of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Molina most recently stopped James De Herrera in the first-round in January of this year. He squares off against Marquez (4-2-1, 1 KO), who fights out of Liberal, Kansas and is entering the fight off of decision losses to then-unbeaten fighters Arnold Dinong and Christopher Zavala.
Representing his hometown of San Francisco, California, Garnica (5-0, 3 KOs) returns to the ring after his last bout saw him score a decision victory over Luis Alvarado in February 2020. The 20-year-old delivered knockouts in three of his first four fights after turning pro in October 2018. He takes on the 29-year-old Bazzi (1-1) from Dearborn, Michigan. Bazzi turned pro in 2021 with a win over Andre Marquez before dropping a March contest to Francisco Javier Martinez.
ABOUT FOX SPORTS PBC PPV: RUIZ VS. ARREOLA
Ruiz vs. Arreola will see former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz, Jr. battle all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare’’ Arreola in the main event of an all-Mexican boxing extravaganza on Saturday, May 1 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. clashing with Abel Ramos in the 12-round welterweight co-main event. Sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora takes on hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota in a 12-round battle and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos duels U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina for 10-rounds of welterweight action in the pay-per-view opener.
The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View is priced at $49.99. Buy now on foxsports.com/ppv and watch on any screen!
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
SAN DIEGO, CALIF. (April 23, 2021) – Former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. took fans inside his training camp Thursday during a virtual media workout that streamed live on the PBC YouTube page, as Ruiz prepares to take on Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola Saturday, May 1 in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif.
The full workout stream can be watched in its entirety HERE, as Ruiz showed off his skills alongside his renowned trainer Eddy Reynoso.
The May 1 event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
Ruiz will return to the ring for the first time since his pair of fights against Anthony Joshua that saw him shock the British heavyweight via a knockout victory in their first matchup, which made Ruiz the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent. To regain the title, Ruiz joined up with Eddy Reynoso and will step into action under his guide for the first time on May 1.
Here is what Ruiz and Reynoso had to say Thursday:
ANDY RUIZ JR.
“It’s great to be back. I feel really good right now with all the hard work we’ve put in at the gym. I know Arreola is training hard as well and looking good, so we’re ready for whatever he brings on fight night.
“I chose Eddy because this is where the champions train. Everyone here is dedicated and disciplined. I felt like I needed to make this change and it’s really something that I should have done a long time ago.
“The main thing I’ve learned here is discipline. That’s something you can’t buy, you have to do it on your own. You have to want it.
“I’ve learned so much here. We try to perfect every punch and every movement. I’m not just a fighter who comes forward. I have more abilities. Losing weight is going to let me show more of what I can do.
“Chris and I sparred when I was 16-years-old. We’ve both had the same dreams and the same vision. We’ve had great careers. My dad has always said that me and him were going to fight one day and now it’s right around the corner.
“I come to the gym with a smile on my face now. I’m not where I want to be yet, but I’m a lot better than I was before. I just have to keep working and stay disciplined. I have to be in the gym, even when I don’t have a fight date. It’s got to be a lifestyle.
“I’ve learned different abilities that I can do during this training camp. I can throw different punches and combinations fighting at this weight. I was always a fighter who could come forward, but now I can switch it up. I can’t wait to show it on May 1.”
EDDY REYNOSO, Ruiz’s Trainer
“The most important thing for Andy is the discipline and his mentality. Those are the main aspects we’ve been working on. From there, we have the building blocks to get better each and every day with everything we want to do
“The talent and intelligence has always been there for Andy. It’s a pleasure to work with him. He’s done everything I’ve asked of him so far.
“I’m really excited for this fight. You’re going to see a new Andy Ruiz Jr. both physically and mentally. You’re going to see him become champion again. I can’t wait for this step on May 1.
“It’s definitely going to be a tough fight against Arreola. These are two fighters who had the same upbringing. There’s going to be nowhere to hide in the ring and they’re going to bring out the best in each other.”
ABOUT FOX SPORTS PBC PPV: RUIZ VS. ARREOLA
Ruiz vs. Arreola will see former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz, Jr. battle all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare’’ Arreola in the main event of an all-Mexican boxing extravaganza on Saturday, May 1 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. clashing with Abel Ramos in the 12-round welterweight co-main event. Sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora takes on hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota in a 12-round battle and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos duels U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina for 10-rounds of welterweight action in the pay-per-view opener.
The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View is priced at $49.99. Buy now on foxsports.com/ppv and watch on any screen!
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
VAN NUYS, CALIF. (April 21, 2021) – All-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola showed off his skills in the ring during a virtual media workout Wednesday, which streamed live on the PBC YouTube page, as he nears his clash against former unified heavyweight champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Saturday, May 1 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The full replay of the workout, which includes interviews with Arreola and his famed trainer Joe Goossen, can be watched HERE.
The May 1 event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
Arreola’s workout took place at the Ten Goose Boxing Gym in Van Nuys, California where Arreola is participating in his second training camp with Goossen. Arreola’s first fight with Goossen saw the veteran former title challenger set numerous CompuBox heavyweight records in a narrow decision loss to Adam Kownacki.
Here is what Arreola and Goossen had to say Wednesday:
CHRIS ARREOLA
“I’m ready for this fight. I’ve been waiting for this fight for four or five months. This one is going to be a barnburner for sure.
“This fight is important for my legacy. I want to make the fans happy they bought this fight. I don’t fight for paychecks. I’m a fighter for the fans. So I hope they enjoy this fight and buy this pay-per-view.
“I love what I do. I’m a fortunate person to have been a fighter since a young age. I bleed boxing. I put my whole self out there every time I fight. I know that I owe it to the fans to give them a great fight.
“Defensively I’ve grown so much working with Joe. He’s taught me a lot about keeping my hands up and countering. He hasn’t reinvented the wheel, he’s just made sure the wheel is round.
“I was able to keep up the pace against Kownacki because I did everything I had to do in the gym. I could have given three more rounds at the end of that fight too. The fight is always won in the gym and we put all of the work in to win that fight. I thought I won that fight. Despite not getting the decision, it was a fun fight for me.
“I feel great. I’ve been working hard for months. I know that I have to make this a great fight for the fans and for myself. I know how crucial this fight is for my career.
“I don’t pay attention to the odds. If people want to make me the underdog, I’m comfortable with that. I’ve been an underdog my whole life.
“I’ve had some long layoffs before, so I know how to get back into it when the time comes. The sparring helps you know where your timing is at. That’s the best way to gauge where you’re at in your training camp.
“It’s a beautiful venue at Dignity Health Sports Park. There isn’t a bad seat in the house. Every time I go there I love to sit up there with all the fans and enjoy the fights. It’s going to be a fun night of boxing on May 1 and I can’t wait.”
JOE GOOSSEN, Arreola’s Trainer
“Chris and Andy are veterans. They’ve been around a longtime. They know how to turn on the switch when the time comes. We’re preparing for a great fight on May 1.
“When you have two guys of the same talent, how do you determine who wins the fight? It’s the fighter who’s in better shape. That’s the underlying thought process here. Both Chris and Andy have talent, but our goal is for Chris to be in the best shape possible. The difference plays itself out in those last few rounds of the fight.
“You’re going to have the best Andy Ruiz that we’ve seen in this fight. And we have the same on our side. Our team has been working hard as well. I don’t expect anything but a great fight. However many rounds this goes, it’s going to be fireworks.
“We’ve been training for around four months but he hasn’t peaked too early because we’ve been consistent. Once we built up to a certain point, we’ve kept it there. He’s not worn out at all. This is what fighters are supposed to do. They’re supposed to be in the gym training.
“I’m very confident and calm heading into this fight, because Chris has been doing exactly what he’s supposed to be doing. That’s all you can ask for.”
ABOUT FOX SPORTS PBC PPV: RUIZ VS. ARREOLA
Ruiz vs. Arreola will see former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz, Jr. battle all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare’’ Arreola in the main event of an all-Mexican boxing extravaganza on Saturday, May 1 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. clashing with Abel Ramos in the 12-round welterweight co-main event. Sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora takes on hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota in a 12-round battle and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos duels U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina for 10-rounds of welterweight action in the pay-per-view opener.
The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View is priced at $49.99. Buy now on foxsports.com/ppv and watch on any screen!
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
CARSON, CALIF. (April 6, 2021) – Fighters competing on the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View undercard Saturday, May 1 previewed their respective showdowns during a virtual press conference Tuesday before they step in the ring for the event headlined by former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. battling all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The virtual press conference featured former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. and Abel Ramos, who meet in the co-main event, sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora and hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota, who battle in a 12-round attraction, and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos and U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina, who square-off to kick off the pay-per-view at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View is priced at $49.99.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday:
OMAR FIGUEROA JR.
“I’m definitely looking to make this an interesting fight. We don’t get paid for overtime. If I can get it done in a round, trust that I’m going to try. It all depends on what Abel brings to the ring. We’ll see what kind of fight he brings and go from there.
“When you’re facing the top guys in the sport and you know you’re not 100% healthy, the weight of it all becomes unbearable at times. I needed to give my body time to heal, and right now I feel like all of that is behind me. I feel as close to 100% as I’ve ever felt and I’m excited to see how my body holds up.
“All I’m focused on is Abel Ramos. He’s no light task, so I can’t look ahead to any possible matchups in the future. The only thing I can control is my performance in this fight on May 1.
“These last couple of years have been tough for me. My life has been this sport ever since I was three or four-years-old. Thinking about a loss never crossed my mind until it actually happened. Having that ‘1’ in the loss column gave me a different perspective on everything and you’ll see it on May 1.
“I’ve given fans great fights throughout my career, including a few times at this venue. It takes two to tango, so we’ll see what Abel brings on fight night. I can’t wait to get this show on the road.
“I’m excited to continue this new chapter in my career and show everyone how I’ve grown. I appreciate everyone who has stood by me. I really believe this is going to be the best chapter yet.”
ABEL RAMOS
“I’ve been training hard and I’m going to be ready to step in against Omar on May 1. I have a great opportunity and there’s nothing on my mind but taking advantage of it.
“The experts are right to say that we can steal the show because of our styles. The styles are going to mix very well. The fans are definitely going to love this fight.
“Omar is a warrior and we can’t look past him. The winner of this fight will definitely be placed in a great position. There’s no chance I’m overlooking Omar, but I’m still very aware of where I can go with a win on May 1.
“There have been a lot of great wars in this venue. Something about that place just attracts these types of fights. Like always, I’m just focused on my job heading into this fight. To me, that job is giving fans an exciting fight.
“To everyone watching this fight, this is going to be a great battle between Mexican warriors. It’s a whole card full of warriors and we’re going to do our part to give everyone a great show from start to finish.”
SEBASTIAN FUNDORA
“I’m excited to be on this card and be part of the Cinco de Mayo legacy of fighting for the Mexican fans.
“We just picked up training right where we left off after my last fight. I didn’t take any time off after the fight in December. Since we were originally supposed to fight Cota then, this is really my second training camp preparing for him.
“If I wanted to, I could squeeze down to 147 pounds. I walk around at my ring weight. This camp was probably even easier than my last camp in that sense, because it’s getting a little hotter so that there’s no problem with any weight coming off.
“We’re looking to get that shot at the champions in this division. No matter who is in front of us, we’re aiming to impress and show everyone we deserve to be on that level. We don’t really worry too much about what the competition in my immediate future is going to look like, we just keep working hard one fight at a time.
“I know that they say Cota has a lot of power, and his record shows it. We’re ready for war, a boxing match or anything he brings. I’m ready to win no matter what.
“I felt the competition level changed with fighting Nathaniel Gallimore. Winning that fight and my most recent one has really helped boost my confidence up so I feel like I can take on anyone in this division.
“This is going to be a war. We’re both going to be bringing it from the opening bell and I can’t wait for it to take place in front of live fans.”
JORGE COTA
“I know that I’m facing a tough undefeated fighter who’s very talented, but I’m bringing my best. I’m training very hard to be 100% on May 1.
“Nothing is too different compared to the preparation we had for the first time we were supposed to fight Fundora. We both wanted to fight each other after it got cancelled, so I’m glad we’re able to still make it happen.
“I’m in Tucson, Arizona right now getting in great work to be ready and at my best on May 1. I only had a bit of a cough for COVID-19 symptoms, so I didn’t feel any ill effects from it and I certainly don’t feel any right now.
“It’s hard to find sparring partners with Fundora’s characteristics, but I’m very confident with what we’ve been able to do in camp. We’ve found guys with similar physical attributes to give me the looks I need in sparring.
“This is a fight that the fans are going to be on their feet for. This fight could end at any one moment. We’re going to be trying to knock each other out from the start and we’ll just see what happens on May 1.
“I’m going to go into the ring fully prepared and with no intention other than getting this victory. I know what this win means for my career. I prepared myself physically and mentally for what this fight means for my career.
“There’s no secret that when the bell rings, we’re going to come after each other. I can’t wait for this fight and I’m definitely ready to steal the show on May 1.”
JESUS RAMOS
“I feel that I’ve been stepping up with each fight. Javier Molina is a big step up. If everything goes right, we’re going to keep stepping up little by little. I want to be champion by the time I’m 21-years-old. I know that if I keep doing everything right, I can accomplish that goal.
“I set my knockouts up and I work hard each round. If the knockout comes, it comes, but if not, I’m always ready to go 12 rounds. That’s how it’s going to be on May 1.
“Molina is the opponent who will bring the best out of me. I hope for that to happen in this fight. I want to go past round four. I want to show everyone my true talent. Some people classify me as a knockout artist, but I’ve seen what I do in sparring and I hope to showcase that in this fight.
“Sparring with Terence Crawford and Maurice Hooker was a great experience. It’s given me a boost of confidence going into any fight I have. I’ve seen how champions train and been in there with champions. It was really intense sparring and it was great to learn from guys of that caliber.
“We’ve always had high-level training camps, no matter who the opponent is. I always prepare as if it’s a world title fight. I don’t take anyone lightly and that’s definitely the case with Javier Molina. A lot of people consider him my toughest test to date, but I think those tough training camps have me ready for this step up.”
JAVIER MOLINA
“We’re working hard in the gym because we have a young tough opponent here. This won’t be an easy fight and that’s what I expect at this point in my career.
“My last fight against Jose Pedraza was a tough battle, it just wasn’t my night. When I got this fight, I knew that this was the type of fight I needed to get back to where I want to be.
“I was off from the beginning in my last fight. I was impatient in the fight, But I’m grateful that I’m back with an opportunity to get to where I want to be.
“I think with a win over Pedraza I would have had a 140-pound title shot, but I always knew that going back to 147 was inevitable. I feel great at this weight and we’re working hard to put on a show.
“I’ve been doing this my whole life. After my loss to Pedraza, I just stayed in the ring and kept working hard. I’m thankful for this opportunity to showcase my skills. I have nothing but respect for Ramos, but when we’re in the ring, it’s a totally different story.
“A win over Ramos just gets me a level closer to a world title. I’ve been a pro since I was 19, so I know that we’ve been working hard and training great. I plan on taking full advantage of this opportunity on May 1.”
TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions
“We’re really excited about this pay-per-view undercard. We have three great all-action, toss-up fights. There’s been a lot of talk lately about great young welterweight prospects and I just have to say that everyone should keep their eye on Jesus Ramos. He’s stepping up to open the pay-per-view in his toughest opponent to date in a very good U.S. Olympian in Javier Molina.
“Sebastian Fundora is another top prospect stepping in for this pay-per-view, and he’ll also be facing a tough veteran who should provide a real test in Jorge Cota. Plus Omar Figueroa Jr. taking on Abel Ramos is a perfect style matchup that I believe is going to break out to be a ‘Mexican style’ Gatti vs. Ward fight. This is truly a stacked card from top to bottom.”
ABOUT FOX SPORTS PBC PPV: RUIZ VS. ARREOLA
Ruiz vs. Arreola will see former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz, Jr. battle all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare’’ Arreola in the main event of an all-Mexican boxing extravaganza on Saturday, May 1 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. clashing with Abel Ramos in the 12-round welterweight co-main event. Sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora takes on hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota in a 12-round battle and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos, Jr. duels U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina for 10-rounds of welterweight action in the pay-per-view opener.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
CARSON, CALIF. (March 30, 2021) – Former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. and all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola previewed their heavyweight showdown during a virtual press conference Tuesday before they battle in a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, May 1 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California,
The pay-per-view action begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see this clash between two Mexican-American heavyweights top a jam-packed all-Mexican boxing extravaganza. The stacked pay-per-view undercard co-feature will see former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. clash with Abel Ramos in a 12-round welterweight bout. Sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora takes on hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota in a 12-round battle and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos, Jr. duels U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina for 10-rounds of welterweight action.
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View is priced at $49.99.
The heavyweights were joined by their renowned trainers during the press conference, with Eddy Reynoso discussing Ruiz’s current camp, and Joe Goossen analyzing Arreola’s preparations. Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday:
ANDY RUIZ JR.
“I’m really motivated for May 1. We’re both training hard and working every day for this one. My mentality is where it needs to be and I’m ready to put on a great performance.
“Eddy sees the potential that I have and he told me that I needed to be disciplined if I was going to work with him. I don’t think I’ve ever been truly 100 percent dedicated until now. I’m surrounded by great champions like Canelo Alvarez, Oscar Valdez and Ryan Garcia, who help motivate me and it’s a blessing to be learning from Eddy every single day.
“Working with Eddy has helped change my mentality. His mentality is that we can’t take anything for granted in this sport. We’ve been working on a lot of different things and I have the ability to do a lot of new things with Eddy. I can’t wait to show everyone the new Andy Ruiz Jr. on May 1 because I’m more motivated right now than I ever have been before.
“I learned a lot from every trainer that I’ve had and I’m grateful for all of them. With Eddy, he likes to perfect every single punch and every movement in the ring. That level of detail is something that I’ve never had on this level.
“Arreola is a warrior who can take a lot of punches. He’s strong, but we’re going to stick to the game plan and remain disciplined.
“Losing my last fight was devastating. I didn’t do the things that I was supposed to do. That was the most important fight of my career. I had been waiting to become champion my whole life and I started doing things I never thought I would be able to do. I don’t want to make those same mistakes again, and that’s a big part of what’s motivating me.
“Now that I’ve been dropping weight the right way, I feel amazing. I feel like I can do a lot more things that I couldn’t do before because of my body. The sky is the limit for me.
“I still have a grudge inside of me about the second Anthony Joshua fight, because I don’t want to go down that path again. I just want to stay disciplined for this fight and all of the big fights coming up in my future.
“I learned from sparring with Arreola that we’re both warriors. We don’t give up. We love to receive punches and give them back. When we’re in that ring, it’s just business.
“This is going to be an all-action fight. I know Arreola is training really hard and I’m excited for whatever he’s going to bring. I can’t wait to show the people out there all of my improvements.”
CHRIS ARREOLA
“This is a fight that I’ve seen coming since the first time I ever sparred Andy. Back then he was just a pudgy kid and I thought nothing of him, until he threw those hands. Those hands were fast and lethal. I knew at that point that one day this fight would come.
“I’ve been ready for this fight for a while. At one point he wanted to be like me, and now I want to be like him and become heavyweight champion. He deserved everything he got, and now it’s my time to do everything to change history and prove I’m an elite heavyweight.
“I’ve been giving it my all in training, but we’re going to keep working. I’m excited for May 1 because this is definitely going to be a rock ‘em sock ‘em type of fight.”
“I know Andy is looking strong and that’s going to make this a great fight. This is a fight people should be talking about. There’s more work to be done, but I’ll be ready to shock the world on May 1.
“It wasn’t so much the punch output that improved for me in the Adam Kownacki fight, but it’s the fact that I could throw combos when I wanted to. I believe the worst I should have gotten in that fight was a draw. Either way, my plan is to be in even better shape for this fight against Ruiz.
“There are not too many things that I regret in my life. Yes, I found more discipline later in my career, but I’m not one who draws on the past too much. There’s nothing I can change except what happens tomorrow.
“Now that I have this new added energy inside of me and really this new love for the game, it makes it easier for me to get in the gym and listen to Joe.
“Andy was very unassuming when I first sparred him. I didn’t think he was going to have the hand speed and skills that he had. I had a rude awakening that day. We were putting hands on each other. Instead of quitting, he kept coming. It was a fun sparring session. That’s why I was one of the people who predicted that he was going to beat Joshua the first fight.
“I know that I have to bring a smart game plan. At the end of the day, we’re going to have the rock ‘em sock ‘em moments. Andy has great hand speed. So I know that if I don’t bring my hands back, I’ll get caught.”
EDDY REYNOSO, Ruiz’s Trainer
“Andy has given so much time and has been so dedicated to his work inside the gym. We’re excited for May 1. He is motivated and learning a lot every day.
“We know that on May 1 we’re going to be dealing with an aggressive fighter who is going to bring his best. Andy is excited about the challenge that Arreola presents.
“May 1 is going to be the second beginning of Andy’s career. This is the start of his pursuit to become champion again. We respect Arreola, but we’re going to go in there to get the job done on May 1.
“Andy is strong and he has a tremendous focus. I have to congratulate Andy on his effort and dedication so far. I do believe that on May 1, everyone is going to see a much different and improved Andy Ruiz Jr.
“I talked with Andy and his entire team and they gave us the confidence that Andy would work hard. He’s done exactly that. The focus is for him to once again become world champion. There are a lot of great fighters at heavyweight, but we all believe that with this hard work Andy is going to show who he really is.”
JOE GOOSSEN, Arreola’s Trainer
“These are two fighters known who are noted for what they do best, and that’s going for the knockout. They let it fly right away from the opening bell.
“Eddy is training Andy right now and that’s a great match, just like me and Chris are a great match. I expect both fighters to be in fantastic shape. I know that Eddy would not be training Andy unless he was dedicated to the program.
“We’ve been training for months now. Chris has been very dedicated and honing his skills getting ready for May 1. Both guys want to win. The pressure is on both guys to work hard for that. Neither guy believes they’re the ‘b-side’ and that’s how they should feel. When you have two skilled fighters with that mentality, it’s going to be a great fight.
“When have you ever seen either Chris or Andy in a bad fight? They both give it their all and if I wasn’t training Chris, I’d definitely be watching. When it’s all said and done, I believe this is going to be a fight that goes down in the history books.
“Andy’s style is Andy’s style. Like he said himself, the difference is what he can do with a different body. It’s going to be a new and improved style. It’s hard to change your whole style, but he’s going to show that he’s added on to his style.”
TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions
“Dignity Health Sports Park is the premier outdoor boxing venue in the U.S. It’s been home to some true modern classics. Something special happens when fighters walk down that tunnel. It’s like gladiators entering the Colosseum.
“Andy Ruiz Jr vs. Chris Arreola is guaranteed to be another great battle between two Mexican-American warriors from Southern California. Throughout their history, the minute they stepped into the ring, these fighters have electrified boxing fans.
“This fight will be a slugfest. Both fighters have fan friendly, all-action styles and it’s safe to say that both Ruiz and Arreola have never walked into the ring just to win—they want the knock-out. So It’s going to be bombs away on May 1.
“We’re really excited about this pay-per-view card with four all-action toss up fights. We open the action with the young top prospect Jesus Ramos taking on Javier Molina in a matchup that’s boxing’s future versus a veteran Olympian. We also have a rising star in Sebastian Fundora against a real contender in Jorge Cota. Plus, the co-main event with Omar Figueroa against Abel Ramos has the potential to be a Mexican-style Gatti vs. Ward type of fight.”
ABOUT FOX SPORTS PBC PPV: RUIZ VS. ARREOLA
Ruiz vs. Arreola will see former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz, Jr. battle all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare’’ Arreola in the main event of an all-Mexican boxing extravaganza on Saturday, May 1 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. clashing with Abel Ramos in the 12-round welterweight co-main event. Sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora takes on hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota in a 12-round battle and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos, Jr. duels U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina for 10-rounds of welterweight action in the pay-per-view opener.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
CARSON, CALIF. (March 24, 2021) – Cuban star and WBA Super Welterweight Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara will seek a third world title in a second weight class when he faces veteran contender Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna for the WBA Middleweight Title in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, May 1 as part of a stacked night of boxing from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The broadcast begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and precedes the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event headlined by former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. battling all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola, which tops a stellar boxing extravaganza all taking place at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The FOX PBC Fight Night co-main event will see top featherweight contender Eduardo Ramírez take on hard-hitting Isaac Avelar in a 12-round fight for the vacant interim WBA Featherweight Title.
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets go on sale Friday, March 26 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased at AXS.com for the event that includes an action-packed lineup of FOX PBC Fight Night and FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View fights. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
“Erislandy Lara has had a long reign as an elite 154-pounder and now has his sights set on a new challenge in the star-studded middleweight division,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “He will bring his renowned skills and style to this tough matchup against the young and rangy Thomas LaManna. With fast-rising Mexican contender Eduardo Ramírez squaring off against the young exciting Mexican brawler Isaac Avelar in the co-main event, this primetime lineup is an ideal way to load up an already stacked night of boxing at Dignity Health Sports Park, leading up to the return of Andy Ruiz Jr. against Chris Arreola live on pay-per-view.”
Lara (27-3-3, 15 KOs) was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a title unification match in 2018 that was the unanimous “Fight of the Year”. Lara returned from that fight and battled current 154-pound world titleholder Brian Castano to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. Lara has since scored back-to-back triumphs with a knockout of Ramon Alvarez in 2019 to capture his current title, and a decision over Greg Vendetti in August 2020. Lara has faced a slew of the top 154-pounders in the sport, including Canelo Alvarez, ahead of his middleweight debut.
“I’m excited to be making my 2021 debut on a huge platform live on FOX,” said Lara, who was born in Guantanamo, Cuba and now trains in Las Vegas. “Thomas LaManna is a tall middleweight with a lot of experience and I’m taking this fight very seriously, like always. I arrived weeks ago for training camp and Ismael Salas immediately got me working on the fundamentals of boxing. At this stage in my career, I’m all-action, fighting on the inside, and letting my hands fly. I’m going to make a statement in this fight with a knockout.”
The Belleville, New Jersey-native LaManna (30-4-1, 12 KOs) was riding an eight-fight unbeaten streak, which included seven wins plus a draw against Gabriel Bracero, before losing to Jorge Cota in January 2020. He won back-to-back middleweight fights in January and October entering this showdown, knocking out Jorge Pimentel and Juan de Jesus Gonzalez. Prior to his two most recent knockouts, LaManna dropped a narrow decision to Brian Mendoza in August 2020.
“It’s been a long time coming and now I’m finally getting my chance to accomplish my ultimate dream of becoming a champion,” said the 29-year-old LaManna. “This is the land of opportunity and I’m getting mine on May 1. I’ve put my heart, blood and soul into this game. I’m the definition of the ‘American dream’. People can write me off if they want, because at the end of the day, there’s no doubt that I’m coming to win. This is my time.”
Fighting out of Sinaloa, Mexico, Ramírez (24-2-3, 11 KOs) has risen up the featherweight rankings with back-to-back sensational knockout victories, stopping Leduan Barthelemy in November 2019 before most recently blasting out Miguel Flores in December 2020. The 28-year-old is currently riding a streak of wins in four of his last five fights since losing to then 126-pound champion Lee Selby in 2017. He’s won 15 of his last 18 fights overall, with his only other blemishes coming in a draw against Barthelemy that was later avenged, and a decision loss to
Claudio Marrero.
“This fight is very important for my career because it puts me one step closer to fighting for a world title again,” said Ramírez. “But I will not be looking past Avelar, who is coming off a big win and will be coming to fight like a proud Mexican, just like I do. I will be in top shape and ready to achieve this step toward my dream of getting another chance at a world title. No disrespect to my opponent, but I will win, no matter what it takes.”
The 23-year-old Avelar (17-2, 10 KOs) most recently won a wide unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Sakaria Lukas in December 2020, stopping a two-fight skid that included a loss to super bantamweight world champion Stephen Fulton. The Aguascalientes, Mexico native was unbeaten in his first 16 pro fights, including a 2019 triumph over Juan Antonio Lopez in his U.S. debut.
“I’m coming into this fight strongly believing that I’m going to stop Eduardo Ramírez,” said Avelar. “I’ve been hurting and stopping sparring partners during camp, so I’m fully prepared for a war. This is going to be a spectacular fight like Rafael Marquez vs. Israel Vazquez. I’ve been improving my game quite a bit in the last year. I asked for this fight, and I’m going to make Ramírez regret accepting it.”
Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
CARSON, CALIF. – (March 24 , 2021) – Former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz, Jr. will battle all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare’’ Arreola in the main event of an all-Mexican boxing extravaganza on Saturday, May 1 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with an undercard stacked from top to bottom with fan-friendly, action-packed matchups, as the co-feature will see former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. clash with Abel Ramos in a 12-round welterweight bout. Sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora takes on hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota in a 12-round battle and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos, Jr., the nephew of Abel Ramos, duels U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina for 10-rounds of welterweight action.
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets go on sale Friday, March 26 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.
The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View is priced at $49.95.
“This pay-per-view card is one of the best all-action lineups that I can remember and is loaded with fighters who know nothing but delivering toe-to-toe combat. Headlining the card is the only heavyweight champion of Mexican descent, Andy Ruiz, Jr., taking on Chris Arreola, the first serious Mexican-American heavyweight contender,’’ said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Andy Ruiz Jr. shocked the sports world when he destroyed Anthony Joshua to win heavyweight titles at Madison Square Garden. No upset in recent years has been nearly as big a story as Ruiz stunning Joshua and no boxer of Mexican descent weighing more than 175 pounds had ever won a championship before him. Ruiz has re-dedicated himself and is focused on regaining the heavyweight crown and Arreola is determined to make one more run at the title.
“The pay-per-view undercard matchups are toss-up fights that predicate great action, featuring top young contenders, a former world champion and an Olympian. No matter what happens on May 1, boxing fans will be the real winners.”
Ruiz and Arreola, two Mexican-American heavyweights from Southern California, have been circling each other for years. They both had designs on becoming the first fighter of Mexican descent to win the heavyweight title. Ruiz won it and lost it, while Arreola still hungers for it. This high-stakes match will determine who remains in the hunt.
Ruiz (33-2, 22 KOs) shocked the boxing world in 2019 when he was brought in as a late replacement to face heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua and turned the tables on the champion, knocking him out in the seventh round and taking home the titles. The 31-year-old from Imperial, California lost his rematch with Joshua by unanimous decision, but has now rededicated himself to regaining the heavyweight championship.
“I can’t wait to get back in the ring on May 1,” said Ruiz, who is now being trained by renowned coach Eddy Reynoso. “Training with coach Eddy in his gym has been amazing. I’m around great fighters like Canelo Alvarez and we’re putting in the work so that I can look better than ever.
“I have known Chris Arreola since I turned professional. He’s a Mexican warrior just like me, and I expect him to come at me with everything he’s got. This is going to be an action packed event between fighters who do not go backwards. I will be smart and ready to do whatever it takes to get the win and put myself back in position to become heavyweight champion again.”
Arreola (38-6-1, 33 KOs) has a career that has spanned 17 years and he remains one of the most dangerous heavyweights in the sport. Born in East Los Angeles to parents from Mexico, Arreola has fought for the heavyweight championship three times and come up short. He began working with renowned trainer Joe Goossen before his last match against Adam Kownacki and appeared to have turned back the clock. It was a back-and-forth, up-tempo match and Goossen’s work with Arreola was on full display. Arreola acquitted himself well, but came up on the short end of the decision.
“Training with Joe Goossen is tedious, hard work,” said Arreola, whose father was a boxer who would take him to Mexico to watch the legend Julio Cesar Chavez, Sr. train. “We’re doing everything that we can so that when Ruiz and I face each other, fight fans will get treated to an all-out war between the two best Mexican-American heavyweights to ever step in the ring. This matchup should be a fan friendly fight, and I plan on winning behind all of my hard work.”
The 31-year-old Figueroa (30-1-1, 19 KOs) is from a fighting family along with his younger brother Brandon, the WBA Super Bantamweight Champion. Figueroa won the WBC Lightweight World Championship with a unanimous decision victory over Nihito Arakawa in a 2013 “Fight of the Year” and successfully defended the title two times before moving up to super lightweight in 2015. In his last fight in 2019, he fought Yordenis Ugas, who is currently the WBA Welterweight World Champion, losing a unanimous decision.
“I’ve been training with Joel Diaz for the last six weeks and doing everything necessary leading up to this fight,” said Figueroa. “This is the best shape I’ve ever been in this far out from a fight, because I now realize what I need to do differently to ensure the longevity of my career. I’m training and preparing the right way. I can’t wait to prove on May 1 that I belong with the elite fighters in this division.”
Abel Ramos (26-4-2, 20 KOs) is also from a fighting family. His older brother, Jesús, Sr. trains him, and his nephew, Jesús, Jr., is a spectacular welterweight prospect featured on this pay-per-view undercard. Ramos, 29, is from Casa Grande, Arizona and lost a narrow split decision to Yordenis Ugas in his last fight. He got a chance to display both his comeback ability and his punching power in his previous fight before Ugas, when he scored a last second KO victory against Bryant Perrella. Ramos was trailing on all the judges’ scorecards at the time of the knockout.
“This fight will be exciting because Omar’s boxing style and my boxing style match up perfectly for an action-packed fight,” said Ramos. “I expect him to put on the pressure like he always does. But I will be prepared for that and anything else he brings on fight night. A victory over Omar will put me in position to fight for a world title again. I want to earn that shot with a great performance and prove that I can beat the best fighters in the division.”
Fundora (16-0-1, 11 KOs) continues to rise up the super welterweight ranks and his match against the veteran Jorge Cota will be his toughest to date. He steps into the squared circle showing off the skills of a rugged boxer who is just as comfortable fighting on the inside as on the outside. The 23-year-old Fundora’s mother is Mexican and his father is Cuban, and both were boxers. He was born in West Palm Beach, Florida but now lives and trains in Coachella, California. Fundora is coming off a knockout victory over Habib Ahmed last December.
“I’m really looking forward to fighting Jorge Cota on this big event on May 1,” said Fundora, who at 6-foot-6 looks like he should be setting up on the wing of a basketball court rather than squaring off in a boxing ring. “I’m laser-focused because I know this will be a tough test for me. I’m sure that he will be training hard too, but I’ll be up for the challenge and I look forward to showing off my skills and fighting for all the hard-working people out there.”
Cota (30-4, 27 KOs) is a rugged slugger who always comes to fight. He has been in the ring with unified 154-pound world champion Jermell Charlo, former unified world champion Jeison Rosario and top contender Erickson Lubin. Cota, 33, is from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico and is coming off a powerful knockout victory over Thomas LaManna last January. With his experience and power, Cota will present a challenge yet-unseen by the rising Fundora.
“I am treating this fight like it is do-or-die for my career,” said Cota. “Fundora is very tall, but he can be hit. I think my style works well against his. I can’t wait to prove what I can do on May 1.”
Ramos (15-0, 14 KOs), the nephew of welterweight contender Abel Ramos, has paved his way to stardom in the talent-laden welterweight division with highlight-reel KOs. He has scored five-straight knockout victories following his only pro fight that went the distance, which came in a June 2019 unanimous decision over Kevin Shacks. He steadily increased the toughness of competition in 2020 and he has continued that trend in 2021. In his last fight, Ramos scored a spectacular knockout victory over rugged veteran Jesus Emilio Bojorquez in February.
“I’m looking to make a statement in this fight against a tough opponent in Javier Molina,” said Ramos, a 20-year-old from Casa Grande, Arizona. “We know it’s a big step up, but my team and I feel like it’s time the world sees my talent. Molina will bring out some of the many things that I’m capable of. This win would prove that I’m not just any prospect. Fight fans don’t want to miss this one, because they’re going to see an exciting glimpse of what I can do in the ring.”
The 31-year-old Molina (22-3, 9 KOs) also grew up in the sport, as his father was an amateur boxer. Molina was on the 2008 U.S. Olympic boxing team, while his twin brother, Oscar, represented Mexico in the 2008 Olympics. He has an older brother, Carlos, who also is a boxer. Fighting out of Norwalk, California, Molina is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Jose Pedraza last September. Before that, he scored a unanimous decision victory over veteran contender Amir Imam.
“I’m excited for this fight and for the opportunity to face an unbeaten prospect in Jesús Ramos,” said Molina. “A lot of people are probably counting me out, but I’m ready to prove all the doubters wrong. This is going to be a great fight that fans won’t want to miss on May 1.”
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
Reading, PA (May 7, 2020)-TONIGHT, Heavyweight contenders Travis Kauffman and Chris Arreola will be special guests on “In The Ring with Kings.” The show will take place at 7 PM ET and will be streamed live on the King’s Promotions Facebook Page (Search is Kings Boxing).
The show will discuss their classic matchup from 2015, their plans for the future and get their perspectives on the current landscape in in the heavyweight division – can Deontay Wilder be competitive in rematch with Tyson Fury, whose the current heavyweight king, and who is the next star in the heavyweight division? The fighters will also take questions from people all over the world who tune in for the live stream.
At 8 PM ET, world-ranked super bantamweight, Raeese Aleem wlll be interviewed by Marc Abrams.
Join the conversation live on Kings Promotions Facebook page at 7PM.
BROOKLYN, NY — Polish-born Brooklyn heavyweight Adam “Babyface” Kownacki upped his perfect record to 20-0, 15KO, earning a hard-fought twelve round unanimous decision against former three-time world title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola (38-6-1, 33KO) in the main event of a FOX broadcast from the Barclays Center. Judges scores were 118-110 and 117-111 for Kownacki.
The fight was fought at a frantic pace for two big men who tipped the scales at a combined 510¼ pounds (Kownacki, 266¼ & Arreola 244). Combined, the two sluggers threw 2,172 punches, landing 667 of them, both CompuBox records for the heavyweight division.
Kownacki, 30, wasted no time forcing the action, as he came off his stool firing in the bout’s opening round firing loaded shots that immediately had Arreola retreating. The 6’3” Pole continued to stalk Arreola, who tried to jab his way out of harm’s way. Once that task proved too difficult, Arreola made adjustments, and in the ensuing rounds the 38 year-old Californian began to smother Kownacki, continuously leaning on him and forcing the fight in-close.
From round two through twelve, the fight would be fought in-tight, which certainly wore on each fighter as they seemingly gassed midway through each round.
Kownacki seemingly landed at will and was more creative with his punches than Arreola, who possibly broke his right hand in the third round. The Pole, who is trained by Keith Trimble, varied his offense, threw uppercuts, short left hooks, and right crosses around Arreola’s guard.
Arreola’s successes came courtesy of his straight right, which he consistently landed, but perhaps without his usual power.
Credit Arreola, who after fading in the late-middle rounds, dug deep and fought well in the championship rounds, winning both of them on judge Lou Moret’s scorecard, as well as 15Rounds.com’s. 15Rounds scored the fight 115-113, Kownacki.
Tonight marked the seventh time in Kownacki’s last eight fights that he’s fought in front his red and white clad supporters (8,790 of them tonight) at the Barclays Center, which routinely turns into “Little Warsaw” on fight nights.
Kownacki now adds Arreola’s name to a list along with Artur Szpilka and Gerald Washington as former title challengers he holds wins over. Kownacki’s resume also sports a win over former IBF World Champion Charles Martin.
Arreola, in preparation for his fight versus Kownacki, parted ways with longtime trainer Henry Ramirez and linked up with legendary offense-first trainer Joe Goossen. Ramirez, who still maintains a close relationship with Arreola, was still present in Arreola’s corner tonight.
With the win, Kownacki takes another step forward in his quest to become the first Polish born heavyweight champion and positions him nicely to get a crack at WBC World Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder.
“I thought it was a good close fight but I knew I pulled it out. I landed a lot of shots and that was enough to win,” Kownacki said afterward.
“I tried to follow up when I had him hurt but I was throwing two punches instead of three or four,” he added. “I just have to keep training hard, getting better and sharpening my skills. We’ll see what the future holds. Hopefully next year I’ll get the title shot.”
Post-fight, Arreola credited Kownacki’s ever-charging approach.
“”Adam is relentless. He just keeps coming. I know I got him with some good punches and he got me with some good ones. I was more than ready to go all 12, but Adam came in and won the fight.”
On whether or not tonight was the last time we’ll see Arreola in the ring, he said, “Retirement is something I need to talk to my family and team about. I gave it my all this fight. I let it all hang out.”
In another stunning upset from the Barclays Center, Jean Pascal (37-6-1, 20KO) turned back the clock and sent “Sir” Marcus Browne (23-1, 16KO) to the canvas three times en route to an eight round technical decision victory (75-74×3) to capture Browne’s interim WBA World LIghtweight title.
Things started according to plan for the former 2012 Olympian Browne, who in the early goings used his height and reach advantage to keep the bull-rushing Pascal at bay. The first two rounds saw the Staten Island southpaw constantly popped his jab and punished the shorter Pascal each time the Quebecer leapt forward to land a charging blow.
In the third Browne became more assertive and started to open up. Midway through the round, a Browne left seemed to momentarily stun Pascal, who had his back against the ropes. Browne then uncorked two violent right hooks, to the head and body that former champ somehow absorbed.
The momentum and complexion of the fight changed suddenly the following round, however, when both fighters landed simultaneous right hands, Browne – a right hook, Pascall – a right cross. It was the former champion Pascal’s cross, though, that exploded upon impact and sent the previously-unbeaten Browne thudding to the mat. Foggy and dazed, Browne beat referee Gary Rosato’s ten count, but then had to figure out how to survive the remaining 1:40 seconds of the round. He did so by clinching at every opportunity until he heard the ding of the bell.
Between rounds four and five, Browne cleared the cobwebs and came out of his corner on steady legs, making a continuous and conscious effort to score to his 36 year-old counterpart’s body.
Similar to the fifth, the sixth likely belonged to Browne, who again kept digging shots to Pascal’s body.
The Canadian roared back in the seventh, though, landing another explosive right cross that sent Browne violently to the mat for the second time. A wobbly Browne beat Rosato’s ensuing ten count, but was sent back to the canvas shortly after when Pascal clipped him with a short right as the round neared end.
Midway through an eighth round that was all-Pascal, the two clashed heads that resulted in a nasty gash over Browne’s left eye. Rosato called a stop to the action and called for ringside physician Dr. Nitin Sethi to exam the cut. Upon doing so, he advised Rosato to halt the contest, which he did at the 1:49 mark of the round.
At the end of seven-plus, all three judges scored the fight 75-74 for Pascal. Browne won all rounds where he remained on his feet.
“Boxing is boxing,” Pascal said afterward. “We clashed heads, but at the end of the day, I was winning the round. I dropped him three times. It was a close fight, but I believe I was winning.
It was a retro performance from Pascal, who many believed his best days were in the rearview. Late last year Pascal came up short against current WBA World Light Heavyweight Champion Dmitry Bivol.
Tonight was the first title defense for Browne since winning his title in January when he outpointed a a crimson-faced Badou Jack.
Omotoso Stops Stevens Inside 3 In Jr. Middleweight Firefight
In the first of three fights broadcast live on FOX, Nigerian junior middleweight Wale “Lucky Boy” Omotoso (28-4, 22KO) scored three knockdowns en route to a third round TKO against former world title challenger Curtis “Cerebral Assassin” Stevens (30-7, 22KO) in a contest originally slated for ten.
It was a brief, albeit exciting firefight between the two 34 year-old sluggers, with both fighters willing to eat a shot to land one. But it was Omotoso’s punch resistance — or better yet, Stevens’ lack thereof — that made the difference in the ring.
Omotoso scored his first knockdown — of the flash variety — midway through the first round courtesy of a right hand that landed behind Stevens’ left ear.
The following round, Omotoso again sent Stevens to the canvas, courtesy of a stiff jab that came at the end of an exchange.
In the third round, Stevens tried to turn the tide and came off his stool and charged toward Omotoso, letting his hands fly. The Brooklyn-native backed Omotoso into a neutral corner and started peppering him short hooks and crosses. Omotoso responded quickly though, firing off his own hooks and crosses thwart Stevens’ offensive surge.
As the two circled the ring and neared the opposite neutral corner, Omotoso uncorked a textbook one-two that caught Stevens on the chin, sending him back to the mat. A blurry-eyed Stevens beat referee Johnny Callas’ ten count, but failed to convince him he was able to continue.
The result marked the fourth time Stevens has been stopped inside the distance. Perhaps most memorable was his vicious KO loss against David Lemeiux in 2017.
“I was just letting my hands go. On the second knockdown my confidence grew,” Omotoso said. “I was glad to get the victory by knockout.
“I didn’t expect it to go exactly like that. I was just listening to my coach,” he continued. “The second knockdown was actually with my jab.
Stevens also spoke after the fight. “He hit me with an overhand right in the first round that knocked my equilibrium,” he said. “But that didn’t really affect me too much. I wasn’t stepping enough into my punches, i was reaching. I got caught when I was reaching.”
Brian Howard Viciously KOs Carlos Negron In One
Atlanta heavyweight Brian Howard (15-3, 12KO) needed just 66 seconds to bulldoze past 6’6” Puerto Rican Carlos Negron (20-3, 16KO) and score the biggest win of his career.
A Howard right hurt Negron about thirty seconds into the bout, and from that moment on, it was bombs away for the 39 year-old veteran. Howard was relentless, offering Negron no relief, forcing him into perpetual retreat.
After a few more Howard punches landed through Negron’s shoddy guard, referee Shada Murdaugh took a close look, seemingly ready to stop the fight. The very next Howard right took that decision out of Murdaugh’s hands, however, as it landed flush on the side of Negron’s head, sending the big Puerto Rican crashing hard to the mat and almost out of the ring. The fight was immediately waved off at the 1:06 mark of the first round.
It was the second straight fight Negron was KO’d. He suffered the same fight in December courtesy of two-time world title challenger Dominic Brazeale in this same arena in December.
Jones TKOs Sosa, Hands Him First Taste of Defeat
In a shocking upset, welterweight Brian “Sweet” Jones (15-10, 9KO) scored a seventh round TKO over previously unbeaten Julian Sosa (13-1-1, 5KO).
Sosa looked to be in control through the first three-plus rounds of the fight, but a Jones three-punch combo midway through the fourth flipped the script. The aforementioned combo sent Sosa crashing to the mat, dazed and confused. The 23 year-old Brooklynite beat referee Earl Brown’s ten count and was able to hang on to see the next round.
In the fifth, Jones stepped on the gas and immediately walked a still-fuzzy Sosa into a neutral counter where he began to let his hands go. Sosa bent forward and put a glove to the mat to catch his balance, resulting in a second knockdown.
The fight ended shortly thereafter, at the 2:28 mark of the 5th, when Brown jumped between fighters to stop any more of Jones’ unobstructed punches from reaching Sosa’s head.
It should be noted that Sosa’s trainer and father Aureliano Sosa was not present in his son’s corner tonight. Over the past few years, Aureliano Sosa has amassed a skilled stable of blue-chip New York prospects including Richardson Hitchins and Chris Colbert. For tonight’s fight, however, with the elder Sosa absent, it was the undefeated 22 year-old lightweight, Colbert, operating as the corner’s chief second.
The result marked the first time the 32 year-old Jones has won at the Barclays Center in three tries.
Marsellus Wilder Redeems Himself In Brooklyn, UDs Nicoy Clarke
Cruiserweight Marsellus Wilder (5-1, 2KO), the younger brother of WBC World Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder, slugged his way past Jamaican Nicoy Clarke (2-4) en route to a four round unanimous decision victory (40-36×2, 39-37).
Various times throughout the fight, the 30 year-old Wilder had Clarke in trouble, but was never able to close the show. The hard-nosed Clarke weathered all storms and had brief moments of success, but not enough to rack up rounds.
Tonight marked the first time Wilder fought at the Barclays Center since being KO’d by journeyman William Deets late in the fourth round of a four round fight he was comfortably winning. That KO remains his only loss.
Helen Joseph Cruises To 6-Round Shutout Over Edina Kiss
Connecticut’s Helen “Iron Lady” Joseph upped her record to 16-3-2, 10KO, earning a six round unanimous decision (60-53×3) against Hungary’s Edina “DNA” Kiss (15-11, 9KO) in a super bantamweight affair.
It was all Joseph from bell to bell. The 30 year-old Nigerian forced the action, pressed forward, and had Kiss uncomfortably fighting off her back foot round after round.
Joseph scored a knockdown in the second courtesy of a looping right that forced Kiss down to a knee.
The 29 year-old Kiss’ remains winless on American soil, having now dropped all eight of her US contests.
Unbeaten Kestna Davis Scores 4-Round UD Over Winless Jaime Meza
New Jersey’s Kestna “Hardball” Davis (4-0) dusted off two years of ring rust to score a four round unanimous decision (40-36×3) over fellow junior middleweight Jaime Meza (0-3).
The 24 year-old Jamaican-born southpaw, Davis, used his height and reach advantage to score the more impactful punches during their twelve minute affair.
Davis’ three prior pro fights all came in 2017.
Cobia Breedy Remains Unbeaten, Scores 10-Round UD Over Ryan Lee Allen
In the night’s second contest, Maryland featherweight Cobia “Soldier” Breedy (14-0, 4KO) out-landed Michigan’s Ryan Lee Allen (9-4-1, 4KO) en route to a ten round unanimous decision (99-91×2, 97-93).
It wasn’t a buttoned-up performance by Breedy, as the wide scorecards might suggest. Allen was able to touch Breedy all fight, but was unable to land anything of significance.
Make no mistake though, it was Breedy who was better on the night. The 27 year-old Barbados-born boxer kept punches coming round after round and continually bested his counterpart.
Arnold Gonzalez Opens Night With 4 Round UD Over De Los Santos
In his hometown debut, welterweight Arnold Gonzalez ran his record to a perfect 2-0, decisioning Texan Jeremiah De Los Santos (0-4) in a four round contest that opened an eleven bout card from the Barclays Center. Scores were 40-36 across the board.
Although born and bred in NYC, the former Manny Pacquiao sparring partner, Gonzalez, hones his craft on the west coast, fighting under the watchful eye of the Wild Card Boxing Club’s Julian Chua.
The marathon fight night concludes with a FOX triple header beginning at 8EST, anchored by a battle of big men when heavyweight contenders Adam Kownacki and Chris Arreola meet in a contest that’s scheduled for — but probably won’t go — twelve rounds.
LOS ANGELES – Today, FOX Sports announces WBC Heavyweight ChampionDeontay Wilder joins former undisputed, three-time heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis and blow-by-blow announcer Kenny Albert to call FOX PBC FIGHT NIGHT: ADAM KOWNACKI VS. CHRIS ARREOLA on Saturday, Aug. 3 (8:00 PM ET) live on FOX and streaming on the FOX Sports app. Veteran combat sports journalist Heidi Androl interviews fighters, while International Boxing Hall of Famers Jimmy Lennon Jr. and Larry Hazzard Sr. join the show as ring announcer and FOX Sports PBC rules expert / unofficial scorer, respectively. On FOX Deportes, blow-by-blow announcer Jessi Losada is joined analyst Jaime Motta to call the bouts in Spanish.
Leading up to the fights, undefeated former super middleweight champion David Benavidez joins International Boxing Hall of Famer Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini and host Chris Myers live in FOX Sports’ Los Angeles studios on Thursday, Aug. 1 (4:30 PM ET) for the one-hour FOX PBC PRESS CONFERENCE on FS1, FOX Deportes and the FOX Sports app. Androl presides over the press conference. The same desk crew works the FOX PBC WEIGH-IN SHOW on Friday, Aug. 2 (1:00 PM ET) on FS2 and the FOX Sports app. Lennon Jr. hosts the weigh-ins on stage and Androl interviews fighters onsite.
Saturday’s fight action begins at 8:00 PM ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app and is headlined by undefeated heavyweight Polish star Adam Kownacki (19-0, 15 KOs) taking on veteran former title challenger Chris Arreola (38-5-1, 33 KOs). Plus, unbeaten Interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne (23-0, 16 KOs) battles former world champion Jean Pascal (33-6-1, 20 KOs) in a 12-round Interim WBA World Light Heavyweight title bout. Super welterweights Curtis Stevens (30-6, 22 KOs) and Wale Omotoso (27-4, 21 KOs) open the show with a 10-round clash.
The evening wraps up with the FOX PBC POSTFIGHT SHOW: ADAM KOWNACKI VS. CHRIS ARREOLA at 10:00 PM ET on FS1 and the FOX Sports app, as Albert, Lewis, Wilder and Androl recap the fights and interview winners.
Leading up to the fights, PBC fighters offer unique, behind-the-scenes clips on the FOX PBC social pages. Follow @PBConFOX on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for all updates throughout the #PBConFOX fights Saturday.Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or athttp://FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.For more information, visit FOX Sports Press Pass.
FOX SPORTS PBC PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE
DATE | TIME (ET) | EVENT | NETWORK* |
Thursday, Aug. 1 |
4:30 PM | FOX PBC PRESS CONFERENCE: ADAM KOWNACKI VS. CHRIS ARREOLA |
FS1 / FOX Deportes** |
Friday, Aug. 2 |
1:00 PM | FOX PBC WEIGH-IN: ADAM KOWNACKI VS. CHRIS ARREOLA |
FS2 / FOX Deportes** |
Saturday, Aug. 3 | 8:00 PM | FOX PBC FIGHT NIGHT: ADAM KOWNACKI VS. CHRIS ARREOLA |
FOX / FOX Deportes** |
Saturday, Aug. 3 | 10:00 PM | FOX PBC POSTFIGHT SHOW: ADAM KOWNACKI VS. CHRIS ARREOLA |
FS1 |
*All programs available on FOX Sports App and FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 **Delayed
–FOX SPORTS– About FOX Sports
FOX Sports is the umbrella entity representing FOX Corporation’s wide array of multi-platform US-based sports assets. Built with brands capable of reaching more than 100 million viewers in a single weekend, the business has ownership and interests in linear television networks, digital and mobile programming, broadband platforms, multiple web sites, joint-venture businesses and several licensing relationships. FOX Sports includes the sports arm of the FOX Network as well as FS1, FS2, FOX Soccer Plus and FOX Deportes. FOX Sports’ digital properties include http://FOXSports.com and the FOX Sports App, which provides live streaming video of FOX Sports content, instant scores, stats and alerts to iOS and Android devices. Additionally, FOX Sports and social broadcasting platform Caffeine jointly own Caffeine Studios, which creates exclusive eSports, sports and live entertainment content. Also included in FOX Sports’ portfolio are FOX’s interests in joint-venture businesses Big Ten Network and BTN 2Go, as well as a licensing agreement that established the FOX Sports Radio Network.
BROOKLYN (August 1, 2019) – Unbeaten Polish star Adam Kownacki and former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola went face to face at Thursday’s final press conference, two days before they meet in a heavyweight showdown headlining FOX PBC Fight Night this Saturday live on FOX and FOX Deportes from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
The press conference also featured fighters competing in action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT as unbeaten WBA interim light heavyweight champion “Sir” Marcus Browne and former champion Jean Pascal, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens and Wale Omotoso, all faced-off ahead of their respective matchups Saturday night.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
The fighters were joined on stage by former lineal heavyweight champion Michael Spinks. Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the Brooklyn Marriott:
ADAM KOWNACKI
“This is one of my dreams coming true. Since the amateurs I’ve wanted to fight at Barclays Center and on Saturday night I’m the main event. I couldn’t be more excited
“I’ve been pushed hard in training camp and I can’t wait to show everyone all of my work on Saturday. The key is going to be jabbing in and throwing my punches in bunches like I always do.
“This is a new experience for me being the headliner, but in the ring it doesn’t matter. It’s just two guys fighting each other. We both love to fight. I can’t wait to get it over with and punch him in the face.
“Chris Arreola is a warrior. You always know that when Chris fights, it’s a good fight. But I’m going to test how much he has left in the gas tank. Chris has been in there with three champions and when I take care of business on Saturday, I’ll be one step closer to being world champion.
“It’s truly a great feeling to have all this support from my fans here. These fans are trusting me to bring the title back to Brooklyn and to Poland.
“Barclays Center has been my boxing home. I can’t wait to get in the ring. This is a tough fight and I have to make sure I send the fans home happy.
“This definitely has Fight of the Year written all over it. Neither of us are afraid to let our hands go and no matter what happens, the fans are going to be winners on Saturday.”
CHRIS ARREOLA
“I understand that Adam is the favorite because he’s undefeated and fighting in his hometown. At the end of the day, none of that matters to me. I’m going to give it my all for this fight.
“I’m carefree right now. I have no stress. If I lose, I’m okay with walking way. But I’m not here to do that. I’m here to win.
“I know I have a tough opponent in front of me. I have my work cut out for me. But ‘The Nightmare’ is going to keep going.
“I went to Joe Goossen as my trainer because I knew it was time to make a change. I have to make this last run count. This is the best team I could imagine. Joe makes you work on your mistakes. I believe the winner of this fight is whoever takes advantage of the first mistake.
“I respect everybody outside of the ring, but once we’re in the ring, I’m not friends with anyone. We’ll shake hands after the final bell, but I’m here to put on a show. It’s lights, camera, action and time to shine.
“He’s a volume puncher. He just keeps coming and he’s smiling at you the whole time. At the end of the day, I’m going to put a frown on his face Saturday.
“My prediction is that the fans are going to get their money’s worth. You better record this one, because you’re going to watch it again and again. I’m going to come out with my hand raised.”
MARCUS BROWNE
“Being in training in Colorado really lets me get attuned to my game plan. It’s just waking up every day and working with that same mentality where I’m focused on nothing but the fight. It’s all about going in there and getting that win.
“I’m going to punish Pascal on Saturday. If the knockout is how he wants to go, I’ll be ready. I promise I’m going to beat him for 12 rounds.
“It feels great to be here defending my belt. I’ll be in a better position after this fight. I’m going to make a statement in this fight and put Pascal in his place.
“Pascal is a guy who doesn’t come to lay down, he comes to beat you. That’s what the sport is about. You have to fight guys of that stature if you’re not fighting champions.
“A win on Saturday puts me in contention to fight for a world title next. That’s my focus, but before that, it’s about Jean Pascal and taking care of him the right way.
“This is a great card for New York with me, Adam and Curtis all representing our home city. It’s great for us to be in this position together.”
JEAN PASCAL
“Marcus has been saying that he’s going to go in there and try to knock me out, but I’m no amateur. I know what his game plan is going to be. He’s going to run around the ring and try to hold. We all know he’s the best at running like a chicken.
“When I was Marcus’ age, I was already a world champion. He was watching me on TV when he was at the Olympics.
“How is he going to knock me out? I think without the cut that Badou Jack had in their fight, he would have knocked Marcus out.
“I’m ready. I’m a solid fighter. I’ve fought the best, so I don’t think Marcus will be able to knock me out.
“I’m too good all-around for Marcus. This is my chance to show that I still have a lot of gas left in the tank. I’m still good enough to fight at the very top level of the sport.”
CURTIS STEVENS
“This is my first time fighting at Barclays Center, and I’m going to give the fans a taste of what they’ve been missing.
“I decided that I’d go down to 154-pounds because my camp has a lot of the top 160-pound fighters so we were getting in each other’s way. There are a lot of opportunities for me in this weight class as well.
“No matter what has happened in my career, I have always come back. I’m mentally always ready to bounce back. I’ve had layoffs in my career, but I know that I’m going to get where I need to be.
“Nobody calls me out because they know I can punch. I’m too risky for the top fighters because they know there’s a chance they get knocked out.
“It’s incredible to have this opportunity to fight at Barclays Center for the first time. It’s going to be a good time for me and all the fans.”
WALE OMOTOSO
“I’m not worried about Stevens being at a new weight. I don’t think it’s going to affect him that much. On Saturday, we’re both going to do our best to get the win.
“He’s a big puncher who brawls. But I’m a big puncher too. He’s been there and fought everybody, but I’m going to show the world what I can do.
“I think this is going to be a toe-to-toe fight. There might be some feeling out, but as the fight goes on and we get into the middle rounds, it’s going to be fought in the middle of the ring.
“I’ve trained well for this fight and had sparring with lots of different fighters. The different styles that I’ve seen throughout camp will have me prepared for anything Stevens shows me on Saturday night.”
# # #
ABOUT KOWNACKI VS. ARREOLA
Kownacki vs. Arreola pits undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn-native Adam Kownacki against veteran former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola for a heavyweight showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, August 3 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
The broadcast starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne battling former world champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round bout, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens makes his 154-pound debut against Wale Omotoso in a 10-round fight.
Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
BROOKLYN (July 31, 2019) – Undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn native Adam Kownacki and former heavyweight title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola showed off their skills at world famous Gleason’s Gym on Wednesday as they near their main event showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night this Saturday from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Also in attendance and competing in action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT were unbeaten WBA interim light heavyweight champion “Sir” Marcus Browne and former champion Jean Pascal, who meet in a 12-round duel, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens, who takes on Wale Omotoso in a 154-pound matchup.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:
ADAM KOWNACKI
“I’m ready to go. I’m looking to make a statement on Saturday. It’s been a long full camp and I’m ready for anything Arreola is going to bring.
“My focus is completely on Chris Arreola. Of course somewhere in the back of your mind you think about the future. But I know that I have to take care of business Saturday before anything.
“I’m ready to go 12 rounds. I want to get the knockout and we’re going to fire versus fire. The knockout is definitely what we trained for and I’m expecting that result.
“This is great exposure for me and we’re going to give the fans a great fight. We’re both coming in with heavy hands and we’ll be ready to let them go.
“It’s going to be an amazing atmosphere. I can’t wait to see the crowd and enjoy the moment. It’s going to be a sea of red and white shirts. You can’t miss it.
“I used to go to all of Tomasz Adamek’s fights at Prudential Center and that was really inspiring. Seeing everyone come together was amazing. One guy being able to bring everyone together is incredible.”
CHRIS ARREOLA
“I’m excited and I feel great. I’m looking forward to the fight. This is going to be a fun heavyweight fight. We’re going to put on a show for the fans.
“I wouldn’t consider it an upset if I win. I’m here to win. I’m supposed to win. Just because he’s undefeated, that doesn’t mean anything. He’s fought some good fighters, but I’ve fought better.
“This is a whole new challenge for him. He’s never faced anyone like me. I’ve had a strong training camp and I’ve gotten tremendous work in this camp. This isn’t the same Arreola who fought Deontay Wilder.
“I love fighting. There’s nothing better than two men going in a ring and testing each other. Hitting someone in the face is the best feeling in the world.
“I don’t think Adam is overconfident. He should be confident. He’s undefeated and fighting in front of his home crowd. It doesn’t bother me if he thinks he’s going to beat me up.
“At the end of the day, it’s only me and him in the ring. His fans can cheer all day, but it’s only going to give me added motivation to beat him.
“I absolutely have to get the knockout on Saturday. I’m in his backyard. I don’t like judges. I have to get it done as soon as I can Saturday.”
MARCUS BROWNE
“This is going to be fireworks. It’s going to be his last hurrah, so I know he will go down fighting like a champ. I’m ready for it.
“Whatever the future holds, will come together after this fight. I’m just focused on putting on a great performance and defending my title.
“Training camp was very good. I had some really tough sparring partners. I’m going to keep my game plan in my back pocket. But if the knockout presents itself, it presents itself.
“I’m in tip-top shape and I’m ready to go to work. I’m going to show off all of my God-given abilities on Saturday night.
“I’m completely focused on Jean Pascal and only him. Whatever happens after this fight, I’ll let my team do the work. They’ve done a great job so far. I just have to be ready for whoever it is.
“My long term goal is to be unified and undisputed in this division. I’m going to conquer this division first before I worry about any next steps.
“Training camp in Colorado was tremendous. I’m ready to get in there and have some fun. This is the fun part for me.”
JEAN PASCAL
“I feel great right now. It’s exciting to be back in New York. Training camp went very well. I have no injuries and no excuses leading into Saturday night. I’m ready to unleash.
“I’m training to be back on top. I was already a world champion when I was Marcus’ age. I’m training to get back to that spot and beating Marcus Browne will help me get there.
“Experience is definitely in my favor and of course I’m going to use it. He has youth, and he has speed, but I also have speed. He’s strong, but I believe I’m stronger. Experience is not something you can buy or learn, you have to live it.
“I don’t know exactly how much more I have left, but I know for a fact that the tank is not empty yet. That’s why I’m still in the game. I’m going to empty the tank and then live peacefully.
“I’ve proven it already that I’m one of the best. I still believe I’m one of the best in the weight class. Marcus still has to prove that.”
CURTIS STEVENS
“I’m feeling strong right now. We had a good training camp and we’re just putting the finishing touches on right now. I’ve been working hard for a while and when I got the call for this fight I was very excited.
“You never want to see an injury like what happened to Andre Berto. It does feel good to have this opportunity to fight on FOX and at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
“I’ve been sparring some faster guys in training since it’s my first fight at 154-pounds. That’s the only difference in the weight. But it’s been the same style of hard work that we always put in.
“Wale Omotoso comes forward when he wants to but also will try to box. He’s never been knocked out, so that gives me something to aim for.
“I’m going to have the same power as I did at the other weights. The speed is going to be different and everyone is going to see on Saturday.”
# # #
ABOUT KOWNACKI VS. ARREOLA
Kownacki vs. Arreola pits undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn-native Adam Kownacki against veteran former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola for a heavyweight showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, August 3 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
The broadcast starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne battling former world champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round bout, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens makes his 154-pound debut against Wale Omotoso in a 10-round fight.
Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
Ray Flores
We greatly appreciate the media joining us from around the world as we are very excited and thrilled for this Saturday’s FOX PBC Fight Night Live on FOX and FOX Deportes headlined by undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn native Adam Kownacki as he battles the exciting former title challenger, the hard-hitting, Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola in a heavyweight showdown from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
We get started 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, and feature unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne, also an Olympian as he battles the former world champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round matchup.
Also Brooklyn’s own Curtis Stevens dropping down to 154-pounds as he squares off against Wale Omotoso in a 10-round matchup. Tickets for the event, they are going quickly. You can purchase them at ticketmaster.com or also at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center and all brought to you by TGB Promotions.
It gives me great honor and pleasure to introduce the President of TGB Promotions – one of the smartest minds in boxing. Please welcome my dear friend, Mr. Tom Brown.
Tom Brown
Thank you, Ray, and thanks everyone for joining us for this conference call, for what should be an amazing PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes card presented by Premier Boxing Champions at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ on Saturday night. BROOKLYN BOXING is now a very well-known brand in the industry because of the dedication to boxing and the support of Brett Yormark, the CEO of BSE Global.
I’m very excited about this fight. I’ve been waiting for this one for a long time. I know Adam and Chris have as well. It’s a very intriguing fight in the heavyweight division, a division which has certainly got a lot of attention and a lot of buzz lately.
So thank you everyone again for joining us, and I’ll hand things back over to Ray to introduce the fighters.
R. Flores
Let’s meet one of the participants in our main event of the evening. His record, 38 wins, 5 losses, 1 draw, 33 wins coming by way of knock out. From Los Angeles, California, a three-time heavyweight title challenger who’s gone up against the likes of Deontay Wilder, Vitali Klitschko, Tomasz Adamek and also Bermane Stiverne. Most recently in action at AT&T Stadium, a part of the Spence – Garcia FOX Sports Pay Per View Event. He finished off the previously unbeaten Jean Pierre Augustin in March. Please welcome, ladies and gentlemen, the always entertaining and the extremely dedicated and focused Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola.
Chris Arreola
First I’d like to thank everyone that’s out here right now and FOX for putting this great show on. I can’t wait to get in the ring with Adam. It’s going to be a fun night. It’s going to be a great night of boxing and I’m excited. I’ve been working hard, and I know Adam’s ready, and I’m very ready to get this show on the road.
R. Flores
Now for Adam Kownacki. His record, 19 wins, no losses, 15 wins coming by way of knock out. A 30-year-old who was born in Poland before moving to Brooklyn when he was only seven years of age. He is no stranger to Barclays Center. This will be the ninth time that he has sparred at Barclays Center but the first as the main event at Barclays Center. He had an impressive decision over former champion Charles Martin last September and most recently halted Gerald Washington in two rounds in January.
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the entertaining Adam Kownacki.
Adam Kownacki
Hello. Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure. I can’t wait to put on a show on August 30.
Q
With the recent news with Dillian Whyte, do you feel like a convincing win on Saturday night would, help you possibly slip in there and get that fight with Wilder a little sooner than expected, perhaps?
A. Kownacki
Yes, I think so. I think what I heard was that Deontay had some other stuff coming up with Luis Ortiz, and the fight with Tyson Fury. So definitely, hopefully towards the 2020 I’ll be able to get a crack at him. But most importantly I’ve got to make sure I get past Chris Arreloa August 3 this Saturday.
Q
Chris, when you called Joe Goossen three months ago, you knew it’s going to be a hard training camp. Why Joe Goossen and what happened during those three months?
Adam, for many, many years the number one on your list was Chris Arreola. Why Chris?
C. Arreola
Well, the reason I went with Joe Goossen is first I’ve known Joe for many years. I’ve always been a fan of Joe ever since the Castillo – Corrales fight. And he’s part of the family. Dan Goossen was my old promoter, rest in peace. I wanted to keep it in the family. I like the way he works. I like that he’s an old school — very old school — kind of a coach. He’s very methodical and he makes sure that he’s there every minute of training camp.
It’s been very beneficial and it was a great experience for me. And I can’t wait to fight this Saturday so I can put everything on the line.
A. Kownacki
I think he’s still one of the biggest names in the heavyweight divisions. With all the great fighters he was in there with, he beat a lot of them. And then against the top ones he came up a little bit short. So I knew if I could beat Chris Arreola, I’m more on those sides that are really on the top of their game and top of the division. So I thinking beating a guy like Chris Arreola puts me up there in the top 10, top five category.
Q
I had the pleasure to speak with Joe Goossen last night and he said he doesn’t believe the fight goes past seven rounds. Chris, your opinion? Also Adam, you?
C. Arreola
I honestly agree on that. And it’s not saying anything negative against Kownacki because it could go either way. He can knock me out like I can knock him out. The thing is that we both have extensive amateur experience. We both know how to fight. We both just need a little window of opportunity to knock someone out. That’s all we need because we have the experience and we have the power. That’s the reason why Joe will say that because we’re both the fighters that – exciting fighters that are going to put it on the line.
A. Kownacki
Yes. I’m ready for 12 rounds but if I get an opportunity to make it quick or go for it, I’ll go for it. It’s like you said before, if you guys have been boxing for a while, you’ve seen Chris around for a while. You see me coming up with the past couple of years so it sounds like the perfect matchup, like a great matchup for fans. We’re both looking for a knockout, so there is definitely going to be a lot of heavyweight haymakers being thrown. It’s not one of us trying to get the finish, it’s both of us trying to get the finish.
Q
Chris, I wonder if you could speak to your experience of having that sort of pressure that was part of your identity of the guy trying to become the first from your heritage to become heavyweight champion, now the way Adam is trying to become the first from his background.
C. Arreola
See the thing is that he has the whole Polish nation behind him, and it is a bit of a burden. Not so much a burden, but it’s a big weight on your shoulders to be carrying around. And as for myself, it was. It was a hard burden and a hard weight on my shoulders for me to carry around. And now that Andy did it, I feel like the weight is off my shoulders now. Now I can just actually just fight.
I think Adam just needs to just fight and not worry about first this or first that because the main thing is is getting that win and getting that fight and not getting caught up in the whole being the first because it’s a bit overwhelming. If you let yourself be caught up in that situation.
Q
Chris did you get caught up in that the first time you fought for the title?
C. Arreola
The first time was really the most pressure, when I fought Klitschko. That was the biggest pressure. The second time when I fought Stiverne, I didn’t have any pressure. I didn’t feel like I had the pressure because I was actually in really good shape and I was ready for that fight. Just happened that I got caught, and it’s boxing.
I was actually worried about the fight more than worrying about making history. And that’s really what you really have to be worried about, is just the fight in hand, the task in hand, because if you don’t take care of the task in hand, then there is no history.
It wasn’t even on my mind at all against Wilder. My mind at that point was just on winning the title. I wasn’t even thinking about being the first Mexican champion or being the first anything. All I wanted to be is be the champion. I just wanted to be a champion.
Q
Now that Andy has done that and did so in a huge upset, what were your feelings about that?
C. Arreola
I was happy for him, for his family, because he deserves it. Like I said, I’ve known the kid since he was 17 years old and he’s always been hungry. He’s always worked hard. He’s always been a big boy, but he’s always been a big boy with skill. And I was elated for him. I was elated for the Mexican fans that finally we had a Mexican champion. And he did it, man. And honestly, a lot of pressure came off of me and I congratulate him. I’m happy for him.
Q
So no disappointment that should you get another chance to fight for a heavyweight title that you cannot accomplish that particular feat?
C. Arreola
Absolutely not. Not at all. I’m not a bitter man and I’m not a man that’s going to be a resentful man. I love it. And I appreciate him, and I love what he did for the sport because he didn’t just do something big for the Mexican people but he made something big for the sport of boxing and for the heavyweight division because now it’s wide open.
Q
How does it feel to be the veteran in this type of fight instead of being the younger heavyweight?
C. Arreola
It’s the circle of life, man. Everything goes around, right? Goes around full circle. I was once a young lion and now I’m the old veteran. That’s exactly how I feel. I feel like Jameel McCline against me, but I feel like I’m in great shape. I feel like I’m ready to put on a great show, and I don’t feel like this is the end of my show. I think this is just another chapter of my boxing career.
I honestly believe that Adam is a great fighter. I think that he’s a really good fighter, but I’ve got to keep my career going.
Q
Do you still look at this fight and this run overall where it’s still one loss and you’re done, you’re retired for good?
C. Arreola
Absolutely. Absolutely man. No disrespect to anybody, no disrespect to Adam, because I think he’s a great fighter, but personally, if I lose, there’s no reason for me to be in the sport of boxing. I’m in boxing to be a champion. If I lose, it brings me all the way back to the bottom, and I don’t want to keep crawling back up and keep crawling back up again. I’m too old to be doing that.
So it’s a make or break kind of fight. It’s a win or go home thing. I know Adam has intentions to retire me, and I’m not planning to retire no time soon. I know Adam worked his butt off to get me out of boxing, but I worked hard myself.
Q
How do you feel getting this opportunity and potentially maybe enticing a guy like Deontay Wilder to fight, especially if you get a big win over Chris?
A. Kownacki
I grew up there. I grew up in Brooklyn. So it’s a great feeling being the headline and having all my friends, all my family, the whole community there and having my back and supporting me making something of myself. Growing up in Brooklyn, it’s very tough but it’s very rewarding. But yes, this is just the beginning. I feel this is the step in making something even bigger and greater.
Q
You mentioned wanting to beat Chris quicker than when Deontay Wilder did a couple of years ago. If you do beat him in quick fashion, do you think that alone will be enough to get that world title opportunity? Or do you feel like maybe there’s a still a little more before you can fully convince the title holder that’s heavyweight before getting that shot?
A. Kownacki
I think so. We spoke about his fight against McCline earlier today. So maybe that’s what I’ll do to Chris. I know it took Wilder seven or eight rounds. So if I do it in half the time, I’ll be happy. Especially with somebody tough like Chris Arreola.
Q
Are you concerned about Adam’s home field advantage at the Barclays Center?
C. Arreola
No not at all, man. No disrespect to the Polish fans for anything like that because I appreciate every fan. Every fan that comes in there gives me added motivation. At the end of the day it’s going to be me and Adam in the ring. There are not going to be any fans in the ring. So I’m okay.
Q
Do you picture yourself and imagine yourself as a future heavyweight champion with all the money and celebrity that can come with that or do you really just take things one fight at a time?
A. Kownacki
That’s my goal. I have a mission to be the first Polish born heavyweight champion of the world, and that’s my goal. You’ve got to stay humble because a lot of times you know it could drop you down back to earth real quick. I remember being an up and coming fighter, being four and 0, four knockouts. And I had a little misfortune of breaking my left hand and I was out for three years. I felt my whole world came crashing down.
But it was a very valuable lesson to make sure I’m humble. The goal remains the same, to be the world champion. And the fame and all that stuff that comes with it great. Right now I’m just laser focused on becoming heavyweight champion. Chris is in my way so I’ve got to make sure I’m able to win on Saturday.
Q
What are some of the new things that maybe you paid attention to with Joe that you didn’t necessarily focus on in the past?
C. Arreola
One of the main things that Joe does is he is a back to basics trainer. He makes sure that you’re tall and jab right. So I think that my punches are going to come out of the pocket a lot smoother and he’s taught me a lot of new defensive movements. The main thing is doing this and making everything just flow.
Q
You debuted as a professional in 2003. It’s 2019 now and you’re 38 years old. How would you say our perspective towards boxing has changed from then to now?
C. Arreola
Well, my perspective from boxing, the main thing I have changed is the work ethic, the way you work. You really have to work, because boxing is my job, so I have to work like it’s my job. I have to treat my body right, like it’s a machine, because it is a machine. The main thing now, especially because I’m older, is paying attention to my body and working hard and not beating myself up where I ain’t going to have nothing left tomorrow.
Q
What’s the biggest piece of knowledge that’s been invaluable to you as a veteran?
C. Arreola
Well inside the ring, as far as inside the ring, the main thing is staying calm. You can’t get all wild and get excited because that’s just wasted energy. And outside the ring is just being open with the fans man. Because you’ve got to remember, you’re nobody without the fans. And just like that, they could pull the carpet under your feet and legs and you can land flat on your face. Got to be humble. Got to treat everyone the way you want to be treated. So that’s just my main thing. And moderation. Everything in moderation.
Q
Adam you and Chris are very physically similar to each other same height, same reach. What do you feel that you do that separates the two of you?
A. Kownacki
It’s definitely very similar styles. Obviously we fight very similar. We throw a lot of punches, we both come forward. So I guess it’s going to be a more experienced lion fighting a younger, hungry lion. You’re going to see whose lands on top. Me and Chris are so similar, like I said, so we have similar aspects from our height, our reach, the way we fight, but it’s going to be the experience could stopping the youth.
Q
Chris, do you think it’s a good thing for boxing to be able to kind of breakdown the sides of the street mentality?
C. Arreola
That’s the way it seems. Boxing is also good because everybody’s their own boss. I think what PBC is doing with boxing is great. It gives us a platform to perform. I think it’s got to be great for the fighters and there are a lot of great fights. So I think it’s just a better when everybody’s satisfied.
Q
Adam are you pretty confident those fights can still be made that are kind of cross that promotional divide?
A. Kownacki
Of course. The fights are going to happen it’s just a matter of coming to an agreement that satisfies everyone.
Q
Chris, being that Adam is a heavy favorite in the fight and you’re viewed as kind of the older guy, how much motivation has that given to you that you’re kind of in some respects being counted out this time?
C. Arreola
I don’t even pay attention to the odds to be honest with you. My main motivation is win or go home. That’s my motivation. My motivation is to keep fighting, to keep putting food on my family’s table, keep making a living off of boxing. That’s my motivation.
Q
Chris, do you view this as your last chance, basically, so to speak?
C. Arreola
Absolutely. This is my last chance, man. This is my last chance not because the media or anything like that. This is my last chance because I say so. If I lose, I go home, no matter if it’s a great fight, if it’s a great fight or great event or it’s a could have gone either way, plain and simple. I lose it, I go home. I stay home. One and done, no more. So this is my added motivation. This is all I want. This is what I’m living for.
Q
Adam, how much more dangerous does that make Chris being that he’s toward the end of his career and he does view this as his last opportunity to kind of get where he wants to go?
A. Kownacki
A lot. I think that a desperate man is a dangerous man and I think he’s very desperate to get in line for a title shot. He had two knockout wins in a row so I’m prepared for the best Chris Arreola. He looks like he’s in great shape. I’ve just got to make sure I have a better game plan and that I’m in better shape, which I know I’ve put in a lot of hard work for.
Q
When do you think you think your world title shot will come and what do you intend to do until then?
A. Kownacki
Keep training. Stay in shape. I could have had an opportunity to fight Anthony Joshua but I was out of shape. So I didn’t pick up the challenge. So from now on, I’m in boxing shape. That’s it. Because the title shot could come around the corner in a couple of weeks’ notice because injuries and accidents happen. So I’m definitely going to be in camp nonstop, always working and perfecting my craft.
Q
Did you regret not being ready when that call came just because Joshua was upset in that fight?
A. Kownacki
Yes, as I said I was not in any shape. I wasn’t in the boxing shop. I wanted to fight. It was my birthday. I found out my wife was pregnant, so I enjoyed life a little bit, which I regret because boxing’s my fulltime profession. And since that call I was, like, yo I got to get in shape and make sure that never happens again.
So it was a learning lesson which maybe stopped me from achieving my goal a little faster than I would have. But I kind of wasn’t ready so it was the right choice. I just got to compete to go down there. That’s what life is about. It’s about getting through our experiences, learning new lessons and making sure you’re always in shape. So I’m in pretty good shape now, and if that call comes again in the near future I’ve got to be ready.
R. Flores
All right, guys. We appreciate both Chris Arreola and Adam Kownacki taking out the time. Before we let them go as they get prepped for their showdown this Saturday FOX PBC Fight Night from Barclays Center in Brooklyn all promoted by TGB Promotions. We go live 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Final comments from Chris Arreola and Adam Kownacki. We’ll start off with Chris Arreola. Chris?
C. Arreola
You know what? I’m just ready for this Saturday. Let’s get this show going, man. See you guys this week. Thank you.
R. Flores
Adam, final comments?
A. Kownacki
No sleep till Brooklyn. I’ll see you guys on August 3.
# # #
ABOUT KOWNACKI VS. ARREOLA
Kownacki vs. Arreola pits undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn-native Adam Kownacki against veteran former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola for a heavyweight showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, August 3 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
The broadcast starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne battling former world champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round bout, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens makes his 154-pound debut against Wale Omotoso in a 10-round fight.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
BROOKLYN (July 29, 2019) – Two-time former welterweight world champion Andre Berto suffered an injury during sparring on Saturday that resulted in a torn bicep muscle and is forced to withdraw from his bout against Miguel Cruz that was scheduled for this Saturday as part of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn-native Adam Kownacki will meet Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola in a 12-round heavyweight showdown in the main event and unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne battles former champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round bout in the co-feature. The broadcast starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will now feature Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens making his 154-pound debut against Wale “Lucky Boy” Omotoso in a 10-round bout.
Berto tweaked his left bicep muscle during sparring earlier last week and tore the tendon during his final sparring session on Saturday in preparation for the Cruz bout. After an MRI revealed the extent of the injury, doctors advised Berto to withdraw from the fight and have surgery as soon as possible.
“Saturday was the last day of sparring and I was trying to finish and keep going strong,” said Berto. “I threw a left hook and I felt a squeeze and a pop. I started yelling and cursing, because I knew what happened. I’ve had injuries before. Even though it was bad, I thought it was something that I could get a cortisone shot and fight with. But the MRI showed that the tendon was torn from the bone and I need surgery as soon as possible.
“It’s devastating because I worked hard for eight weeks and I’m in dog shape. I was just ready to go. This just kills me. It’s so freaky that it happened on the last day of sparring. When I hurt it on Tuesday, I just taped it up and went back to work. The doctors say there was a slight tear on Tuesday because there was still some inflammation when I came back to spar on Thursday and Saturday. They say it would have torn during the fight.”
Berto went into his match against Jesus Soto Karass with a shoulder injury, tore muscles during the match and had to fight with one arm. He had shoulder surgery to repair torn tendons and ligaments and spent eight months recovering. He was out of the ring for 14 months.
“This injury and the surgery won’t be as bad as the shoulder,” Berto said. “The shoulder was a lot of different muscles and tendons that were torn. I had a sling on for six weeks, and I was immobilized for so long that I had frozen shoulder syndrome and I had to go through three or four weeks with therapy to just get it to moving. It took eight or nine months with the shoulder. If I do it right with this injury, I’ll be good in two or three months.”
Berto (32-5, 24 KOs) has fought some of the top welterweight champions of this generation, including Floyd Mayweather. The 35-year-old won a welterweight world title with TKO victory over Miguel Angel Rodriguez in 2008 and successfully defended it five times before losing it to Victor Ortiz in 2011. He later avenged that loss to Ortiz with a knockout victory in 2016 on FOX. Heading into the fight against Cruz, Berto was coming off a split decision victory over former welterweight champion Devon Alexander in his last fight in August on FOX.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
BROOKLYN (July 24,2019) – Unbeaten Polish heavyweight star Adam Kownacki and former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola exchanged words and previewed their upcoming showdown on “PBC Face to Face” ahead of their heavyweight duel Saturday, August 3 that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
The program originally aired on Sunday on FOX and will re-air tonight, July 24 on FS1 and 9:30 p.m. ET.
The August 3 main event will see Kownacki, a rising contender in the red-hot heavyweight division, as he looks to make a statement in his hometown of Brooklyn against the three-time title challenger Arreola, who can vault himself back up the heavyweight rankings with a win against the currently unbeaten Kownacki.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Here are highlights from when the two heavyweights sat down and went “face to face”:
Opening Statement
Adam Kownacki: “I love fighting. I love the mentality of going out and fighting and putting on a good show making sure the fans are happy and getting their money’s worth. I think I am the best heavyweight out there. I just haven’t been given the opportunity to prove myself.”
Chris Arreola: “If I lose this fight, I will retire, plain and simple. I love the sport of boxing and I want people to still remember me as a world heavyweight champion. I believe I still have the skills to do so.”
Kownacki on being the face of Polish boxing
Kownacki: “Wearing the red and white colors means a lot to me. That’s where I was born. That’s where my family is from, it means everything to be the first Polish born heavyweight champion of the world. There were six fighters that tried it and none of them accomplished it. So I will be the first to do it.”
Arreola on fighting former heavyweight champions
Arreola: “I literally love fighting. I think it’s the most enjoyable thing to do. The most gentlemanly sport there is. Two guys beating the crap out of each other and then after that just shaking hands like nothing happened. There’s nothing more gentlemanly than that. The older that I get, the more I appreciate that.”
Arreola on a possible title push with new trainer Joe Goossen:
Arreola: “I needed someone like Joe to light a fire in me and to be right next to me and point out the mistakes that I am making.”
Kownacki on having similar body frame to Heavyweight Champion Andy Ruiz Jr.
Kownacki: “Andy Ruiz Jr. just proved that the dad bod is in style for the summer. That’s the look. That was something I dealt with my whole career, but the last couple of fights were tough ones, so the cat is out of the bag, that I can fight.”
Kownacki on watching Chris Arreola fight as he was growing up
Kownacki: “I remember even watching him as an amateur growing up. Every time he fought, I had to tune in because he was so exciting. I think our styles are perfectly matched for each other to make a fight that will be a legendary night. I think it will be an action-packed fight. Truly I wish I could watch it from the sideline, and I will do that after the fight is over.”
Arreola on what’s different about this fight for him
Arreola: “I love boxing. The love for boxing came back to me and the fact that I’m a different person. I’m more mature, I understand the significance of this fight. This is a big fight, there’s a big opportunity for him and a big opportunity for me. I can’t leave one stone unturned because I know that this man is going to come and try to break my head and try to make a statement with my name and I can’t let that happen.”
On the friendliness between the two of them and if it lasts until August 3
Arreola: “Oh no, the smiles are going to go away. That’s right. That’s for sure. But, the thing is, I have a respect for him. I have a lot of respect for him. Like you said, he was watching me. While I was at home during those two years off that I was just watching PBC at home, I got to watch him do his thing and watch him mature watch him grow and what I love most about him is his smile. The fact that he fights with a smile. I love that.”
Kownacki: “Your life is always on the line with your fight. You got to be ready, I’ve got to prove myself. He’s been there with everybody, from Klitschko to Deontay Wilder, and I think if I could beat him in a better fashion than Deontay beat him before, then that’s a good statement.”
Arreola on if he is happy with his career so far
Arreola: “No, I’m not happy at all. I started boxing when I was seven years old because I wanted to be a world champion. I remember seeing we Julio Cesar Chavez. I remember meeting him and being in awe with this man and my dream was always to be a world champion. So if I’m not a world champion. I did nothing with my career.”
Kownacki: “That definitely makes him a lot more dangerous. But don’t let the door hit you on the way out man.”
Kownacki on what version of Chris Arreola he will see & Arreola’s response
Kownacki: “Time will tell. I feel like a young, hungry dog and this will be a passing of the torch.”
Arreola: “This is this is kind of fight how I felt when I was fighting for the title. When I fought Jameel McCline, he was one of those big heavy weights that everybody was talking about, but never made it. I don’t want to be that guy. I don’t want to be his Jameel. So that’s why I’m working hard out here with Joe Goossen. To make sure to put a little setback to his plans for the world title. He will get there, but my plan is to not let him use my name as a stepping stone.
Arreola on how he plans to stop Kownacki’s offense
Arreola: “Offense.Like you said, offense is the best defense. I’ve got to give offense and that’s the beauty about this fight that we are having. We’re both fighters that just want to fight. We don’t care who we are fighting. We respect them but we just want to fight, and we love what we do. That’s the fun part about this fight.”
Kownacki on Arreola’s weaknesses that he can take advantage of
Kownacki: “He leaves himself open, he throws a lot too, he’s a little bit wild and the age, I think that will be a huge factor. But I think out of all of the boxing names out there, he’s the biggest one. He’s been through everybody and out of his generation, he’s the one who’s actually left, everybody else is either retired or gone. So I’m going to try to make sure he’s going off into the sunset.”
Kownacki on if he is ready for title fight against the elite of the heavyweight division
Kownacki: “I have been with two guys that Deontay Wilder fought with Artur Szpilka and Gerald Washington. It took Wilder 10 rounds to knockout Artur Szpilka in a very competitive fight when I just walked right through him and the same thing with Gerald Washington, I knocked him out in two rounds. My next fight against Chris Arreola, another fight Wilder and I have in common, and I plan to do the same thing, walk right through him.”
Arreola on if he can stop Kownacki
Arreola: “That’s the goal. I have to stop him to win in Brooklyn. Brooklyn is his home. I have to. There is no ifs ands or buts about it. No I have to go in and bring him a war and give him a fight that he wasn’t expecting.”
Kownacki’s expectations for August 3rd
Kownacki: “I am expecting a war. I can say I was watching Chris for a long time. I know he always comes to fight so I am ready for a war.”
# # #
ABOUT KOWNACKI VS. ARREOLA
Kownacki vs. Arreola pits undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn-native Adam Kownacki against veteran former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola for a 12-round heavyweight showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, August 3 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
The broadcast starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features former world champion Andre Berto taking on Miguel Cruz in a 10-round welterweight clash and unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne battling former world champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round bout.
Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
BROOKLYN (July 9, 2019) – An exciting lineup of action-packed undercard attractions will add to the Summer heat on Saturday, August 3 live from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The event is headlined by Polish star and heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki and former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola meeting in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night live on FOX and FOX Deportes. The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features two-time world champion Andre Berto and 147-pound contender Miguel Cruz, who meet in a welterweight attraction, and interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Marcus Browne and former world champion Jean Pascal, who duel in a 175-pound bout.
Undercard bouts are highlighted by 2008 Puerto Rican Olympian Carlos Negron (20-2, 16 KOs) in a 10-round heavyweight fight against Atlanta’s Brian Howard (14-3, 11 KOs), former title challenger Curtis Stevens (30-6, 22 KOs) taking on veteran contender Wale Omotoso (27-4, 21 KOs) in a 10-round super welterweight clash and featherweight world champion and unbeaten local fan-favorite Heather “The Heat” Hardy (22-0, 4 KOs) in her 10th appearance in the ring at Barclays Center.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Additional action features a pair of uneaten fighters as Brooklyn’s Julian Sosa (13-0-1, 5 KOs) steps in for an eight-round welterweight showdown versus Texas-native Brian Jones (14-10, 8 KOs), plus Maryland-native Cobia Breedy (13-0, 4 KOs) takes on Michigan’s Ryan Lee Allen (9-3-1, 4 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight attraction.
Rounding out the lineup is Mexico’s Isaac Cruz Gonzalez in a 10-round featherweight fight, undefeated prospect Keeshawn Williams in a six-round welterweight fight, unbeaten New Yorker Arnold Gonzalez in a four-round featherweight duel and undefeated New Jersey-native Kestna Davis in a four-round super welterweight bout against California’s Jaime Meza.
# # #
Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
BROOKLYN (June 18, 2019) – Polish star and heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki and former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola went face to face Tuesday at a press conference in Brooklyn as they previewed their showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, August 3 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
Also going face to face Tuesday were two-time world champion Andre Berto and Miguel Cruz, who meet in a welterweight attraction, and interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Marcus Browne and former world champion Jean Pascal, who kick off FOX PBC Fight Night action at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday from the Barclays Center GEICO Atrium:
ADAM KOWNACKI
“This is an exciting moment for me. When I first fought at Barclays Center, I fought after the main event, so this is just an amazing feeling to be headlining.
“Arreola has been in there with everyone, so I know it’s a tough test. He’s coming off two knockout wins, so I know he’ll be ready, but I’m more ready.
“I’ve worked very hard to get to this moment. This is another step toward me becoming a world champion. I’m looking to put myself in line for a world title shot.
“I can’t wait for this one. It’s another step in the right direction, I know it’s going to be competitive because Arreola is coming off of two knockout wins. It’s a do or die mood for him. I know he’ll be in the best shape possible and I can’t wait to show off my skills.
“Arreola is a good fighter. He has fought everybody from Deontay Wilder to Vitali Klitschko. Hopefully I will be able to do a good job and get the win.
“Chris Arreola and I are going to put on the Fight of the Year. We’re going to show that the big guys can really fight.
“The heavyweight division is hot right now and this is going to add to it. With our styles being guys who come forward, it doesn’t get better as a boxing fan.
“This is the third fighter I’ve had in common with Deontay Wilder. I knocked out Artur Szpilka and Gerald Washington faster than he did, and I’m looking to do the same August 3.”
CHRIS ARREOLA
“Adam and I are going to put on a great fight. I’m really excited for this one. As a fan, this is the kind of fight I’d want to watch. It’s going to be a fight that’s talked about for years.
“Everyone knows this is going to be a great fight. People always have something negative to say anyway, so I’m only controlling what I can. I’m really looking forward to this fight and displaying the new tricks of the trade that I’ll be implementing into this fight.
“I’m nothing like the fighter’s he’s fought. I’m not an opponent. I’m here to fight. He’s going to have a tough time trying to put me out. A lot of people underestimate me, but you’ll see on August 3 that I’m a heavyweight to be reckoned with.
“The main thing that I’ve seen from Kownacki is that he throws a lot of punches. He throws a bunch of punches. You just keep throwing punches and one of them is going to land and that’s what I see from him.
“Training camp has been going great. I’m loving it. I’m learning a lot of new tricks of the trade and working on the old things also. I’m looking forward to this fight because the things that I’ve been working on with Joe Goossen, are going to come out in this fight.
“I’m going to be in the best shape possible on August 3. I’m saying it now, if I lose, I’m retiring. But I’m not going to lose. I’m coming guns blazing to get this win.”
ANDRE BERTO
“I started my career right here in New York after the Olympics and it always feels great to be back. This is going to be a great night of fighting. This is great event with a lot of fighters I know well, but this is going to be my show. I’m going to put on a great performance.
“Miguel Cruz I just found out is from Florida and basically my hometown. So it just got real personal and it’s going to be explosive.
“At the end of the day, I’ve never stopped working. I’m in fight shape right now. This is a lifestyle for me. I don’t care what Miguel Cruz’s plans are. I have too much to fight for me to lose.
“You have to find different levels of motivation for yourself for every fight. Whether its family or whatever it is. I have my new baby girl, I lost my dad. So it’s coming from a lot of different areas right now.
“I’m going to be a whole other animal on August 3. I know what’s been going on in his camp and I know how his sparring is going. So I hope he just stays focused.
“I’m just looking to go out and put on a show. I’m looking forward to going out there and just making it happen. It’s going to be big. I’ve done a lot within the last few months. Any great performance I come back with puts me in contention.
“I’ve had a lot happen in my life in the last year. A lot of great things and some tragedies. I believe that I’m really in a position where everything is bottled up and I can’t wait to let it out on August 3.”
MIGUEL CRUZ
“It’s going to be fireworks and we’re going to bring the house down. I expect both of us to have amazing performances, but especially myself.
“I’m coming for Andre Berto and then I’m looking at Keith Thurman and that world title. I’m ready to leave it all in the ring. I have nothing to lose. I’m going to show that I’m a very dangerous man.
“This is a new era of boxing. That’s the nature of the game. One day I’ll be the old lion. This is just what happens. It’s going to happen to Andre Berto on August 3.
“I don’t have any real personal feelings towards him. I’m very focused on my mission, so if he wants to get personal I believe it’s going to cause him to make mistakes. I believe that it’s going to be a disadvantage in many different ways. I’m going to continue my training camp in the way I’ve been doing it.
“We did grow up in the same area relatively so it does spark up that inner city rivalry. I think that’s how he feels. And it’s fine. I know a lot about him and he doesn’t know much about me. I feel like I have a lot of advantages in this fight. I feel like I have the youth, the strength, and the power to do a lot of damage in this fight. I feel like he’s underestimating me, he’s going to make some mistakes and get emotional.
“I’m sure I’ve sparked a little fire in him and he’s going to train harder but that’s not going to change the fact that his mind isn’t really prepared for exactly what’s going to happen.
“I already feel like Brooklyn is my home and I’m going to make it my home going forward. I like the warmth that I feel from the fans and I especially know there’s going to be a lot of Puerto Rican support for this one. There’s going to be three stellar fights and I plan on stealing the show.”
MARCUS BROWNE
“I just want to thank everyone for allowing me to display my talents on this stage. I’m going to be in the best shape possible. I’m coming in shape for 15 rounds.
“I am always going to be underestimated in a sense, especially to a veteran like Pascal. He has to keep himself in the fight and the only way to do that is to downplay what I do. Come August 3, I will just display my talents and take care of business.
“This is a great card. You know Adam always comes with the thunder and excitement. Andre has always been in exciting fights. But when you’re watching my fight, make sure you don’t blink.
“The division has no one else like me. Pascal has fought a lot of great fighters, but he hasn’t faced anyone like me. It’s going to be something he’s never seen before in that ring.
“I am not focused on the future right now. The only thing I am focused on is Jean Pascal, because we won’t get there if we don’t take care of business with him the right way. It’s not about just winning it’s about winning the right way. We are going to focus on him right now and after that it is what it is.
“Jean Pascal always comes to fight and he comes in great shape. But he’s in my way right now. I’m going to knock you out, I promise you. I’m making sure I’m ready for him. I know exactly what he possesses and we respect that. August 3 it will be my time.
“I remember sparring Jean Pascal and he said I was green. But the fruit is ripe now. He knows what time it is.”
JEAN PASCAL
“This is going to be a great fight. Marcus is a tremendous fighter who’s going to train very well. We both know we’ll be at our best. I’ve been there and one that before. I’m up for any challenge.
“Marcus is the rookie and I’m the veteran. I’m going to show him who’s the boss.
“This show is very special for me because you will see the two best Haitian boxers on earth in Andre Berto and myself. I hope the big Haitian community in New York shows up to see us.
“I’m one of the best in the world. I always train hard and I’m always ready for a challenge. I know it’s not going to be easy. I don’t take any easy fight at any point in my career.
“I love the sport and I love to display all of my talent. It’s going to be technical fight and a chess match on fight night.
“I’m very happy to be here. I want to thank everyone who made this dream come true for me to fight at Barclays Center. This is a tremendous place to fight and many champions have fought here. I’m going to be part of history.”
BRETT YORMARK, CEO of BSE Global
“I’m excited to kick off another heavyweight fight promotion right here in Brooklyn. This is our 5th event headlined by a heavyweight fight but our first headlined by a heavyweight from Brooklyn.
“Brooklyn loves their heavyweights. Adam is undefeated in eight fights at Barclays and this has certainly become his home and we welcome him back. There aren’t many fighters I know with the grassroots fan base that you have. We’re also excited to have Chris Arreola here for a fight that will have a great atmosphere on August 3.
“We also welcome back Andre Berto and Miguel Cruz for what we know will be an exciting welterweight matchup. I’m also thrilled that Marcus Browne is back for his 13th appearance at our venue. Thank you for being a fixture here and we also welcome Jean Pascal to challenge for your interim title.
“This is our 35th fight night. It’s been an incredible journey and PBC has continued to give us some of the best fights out there. FOX is the biggest platform in the sport of boxing today and we’re happy to have them come here on August 3.”
# # #
Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
BROOKLYN (June 6, 2019) – Undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn-native Adam Kownacki will look to thrill in front of a hometown crowd when he steps into the ring against veteran former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola for a 12-round heavyweight showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, August 3 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.
The broadcast starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features former world champion Andre Berto taking on Miguel Cruz in a 10-round welterweight clash and unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne battling former world champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round bout.
The heavyweight division is red hot and Kownacki is a top rising challenger who will look to continue his ascent up the rankings with a win over the all-action veteran Arreola. This will be Kownacki’s ninth fight at Barclays Center, and his first as the headlining attraction.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, go on sale on Friday, June 7 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center starting Saturday, June 8 at noon.
“This action-packed tripleheader is full of high stakes, toe-to-toe matchups with fighters highly-motivated to make a statement on the big stage,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Brooklyn’s Polish star Adam Kownacki has become a fan-favorite in his hometown and is surely in for a challenge from the always exciting Chris Arreola, as he looks to make a heavyweight statement. Andre Berto is always in action fights and he’ll be looking to hold off the young challenger Miguel Cruz, while Marcus Browne returns off his career-best victory to face battle-tested former champion Jean Pascal.”
“All eyes are on boxing’s heavyweight division, and I am thrilled to welcome Brooklyn’s own contender Adam Kownacki back to our ring for his first time as the headliner,” said Brett Yormark, CEO of BSE Global. “Adam has built an enthusiastic fan base in the borough, and I am confident they will be out in full force to support him as he takes on veteran Chris Arreola to earn a title shot in the near future. It will be yet another heavyweight night to remember in Brooklyn.”
Kownacki (19-0, 15 KOs) is noted for his tenacity and has been progressing towards a world title shot with knockouts in five of his last six fights. The 30-year-old, who was born in Lomza, Poland and moved to Brooklyn when he was seven, was an accomplished amateur in New York City before turning pro. He scored an impressive unanimous decision victory over former world champion Charles Martin last year and is coming off of a devastating knockout victory against Gerald Washington in January on FOX. His last three fights and six of his last seven have taken place at Barclays Center, where he has routinely brought out the area’s passionate Polish sports fans.
“I’m excited to be back in the ring and back at home in Barclays Center, live on FOX and FOX Deportes,” said Kownacki. “Fighting Chris Arreola will be another step on my journey to become a world champion. It will be a Polish-Mexican War that will bring fireworks to Brooklyn. Make sure you’re there in Brooklyn or watching in primetime!”
Arreola (38-5-1, 33 KOs), a veteran of the heavyweight division, has contended for the world title three times, most recently against WBC champion Deontay Wilder in 2016. Since losing to Wilder, the 38-year-old Arreola from Los Angeles, California has put together back-to-back victories, including a stoppage of then unbeaten Jean Pierre Augustin on a PBC on FOX Sports pay-per-view undercard in March.
“I can’t wait to step into the ring on August 3 and show everyone I’m still one of the best heavyweights in the world,” said Arreola. “I feel rejuvenated and ready to upset Adam Kownacki in front of his fans. He better be ready, because I’m going to bring it to him like he’s never seen before. This is going to be a war and I will leave with my hand raised.”
Berto (32-5, 24 KOs) has fought some of the top welterweight champions of this generation, including Floyd Mayweather. The 35-year-old won a welterweight world title with TKO victory over Miguel Angel Rodriguez in 2008 and successfully defended it five times before losing it to Victor Ortiz in 2011. He later avenged that loss to Ortiz with a knockout victory in 2016 on FOX. A native of Winter Haven Florida, Berto is coming off a split decision victory over former welterweight champion Devon Alexander in his last fight in August on FOX.
“I’m looking forward to this fight on August 3,” said Berto. “My focus is different, my motivation is different and my hunger is different. I’ve had a lot happen in my life in a short period of time with the loss of my father and the birth of my new baby girl, Legaci. It’s definitely turned me in to a whole different type of animal. August 3 is going to be cinematic. Barclays Center – see you soon. I’ve got some payback.”
Cruz (18-1, 12 KOs) is among a group of promising welterweights prepared to burst onto the scene in one of the most talent-rich division in boxing. The 28-year-old from Lake Mary, Florida will be stepping up a level with his bout against Berto. He scored a TKO victory over Luis Eduardo Florez in his last fight in January to bounce back from a decision loss to Josesito Lopez on FOX in April 2018.
“I’m excited for all my Boricuas and NYC fight fans to come out and show love in August 3,” Cruz said. “I want to thank everyone who made this opportunity possible, and I’m definitely going to make the most if it. This is a different era in boxing and I’m here to prove it to the world and to Andre Berto. Don’t miss this night of boxing.”
The 28-year-old Browne (23-0, 16 KOs) won the interim title with a rousing unanimous decision victory over former two-division champion Badou Jack in January. A 2012 U.S. Olympian from Staten Island, Browne has fought at Barclays Center 12 times in his career as he made his steady climb up the light heavyweight ranks. Pascal will be the second straight former world champion that he has faced.
“I’m honored and grateful to be able to display my skills on this huge platform on FOX and at Barclays Center, which is a second home for me and my boxing career,” said Browne, who will be fighting at Barclays Center for the 13th time. “I anticipate Pascal bringing everything that he has into this fight because this is make or break for him. Unfortunately for him, he will break, as I plan to win this fight decisively and continue my quest for a long and successful championship reign. I expect him to come in as prepared as a championship-caliber fighter and I’m staying motivated to get the win on August 3.”
Pascal (33-6-1, 20 KOs) has been in the ring with the top fighters of his era during his brilliant career, including Bernard Hopkins, Sergey Kovalev, Carl Froch, Lucian Bute and Chad Dawson. The 36-year-old, who was born in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti and now lives in Laval, Quebec, Canada, won the light heavyweight world title with a unanimous decision over Adrian Diaconu in 2009. He is coming off a loss to Dmitry Bivol in his last fight after putting together back-to-back TKO victories over Ahmed Elbiali and Steve Bosse.
“Marcus Browne is one of the most talented fighters in the world and I will have to be at my best to beat him,” said Pascal. “I’ve been training and I will be ready. I’ve got some veteran tricks he’s never seen before. I plan on out boxing him just like every other southpaw I’ve ever fought. I’ve never lost to a lefty and it’s going to stay that way come August 3.”
# # #
Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.
Follow all the action as Errol Spence Jr. defends the IBF Welterweight title against Mikey Garcia in a battle of undefeated stars. The action kicks off at 8 PM ET / 7 PM PT with a 4 fight undercard featuring former Heavyweight champion Charles Martin taking on Gregory Corbin. Chris Arreola battles Jean Pierre Augustin. Luis Nery takes on McJoe Arroyo and David Benavidez battles J’Leon Love.
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12-ROUNDS–IBF WELTERWEIGHT TITLE–ERROL SPENCE JR. (24-0, 21 KOS) VS MIKEY GARCIA (39-0, 3O KOS) | |||||||||||||
ROUND | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | TOTAL |
SPENCE* | 10 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 119 |
GARCIA | 9 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 109 |
Round 1:Left to body from Spence
Round 2 Left from Spence..1-2 from Garcia..Left to body..Jab from Spence..
Round 3 Left from Spence..Body shot..Left..Right from Garcia..Big left from Spence..left..Hard body shot..Staright left
Round 4 Straight left from Spence..2 jabs..2 shots..2 lefts..2 more lefts..uppercut..Body shot..Right from Garcia
Round 5 3 rights from Garcia..Good left from Spence..Hard left..Straight left..3 jabs..
Round 6 hard left and body shots from Spence..hard left and right…Hard right hook..Right from Garcia..Good body shot
Round 7 Left from Spence..
Round 8 Hard left from Spence..Left to body from Garcia..Combination from Spence..another..Hard left..Spence outlanding Garcia 189-52
Round 9 Straight left..Uppercut on inside from Spence..Straight left…Jab..hard 4 punch combination..Hard jab..Body shot..2 jabs..
Round 10 3 punch combination from Spence…Left to body..Right hook..left inside..hard left..right from Garcia..
Round 11 Spence landing a heavy barrage of Punches…Garcia looks beaten…Hard shots from Spence..Spence with a big round..Spence out landing Garcia 318-67
Round 12 Left from Spence..Straight left…Good left.combination to head and body..Hard left…. PUNCHES 345-1082 For Spence 75-406 for Garcia
120-107….120-108 for ERROL SPENCE
10-Rounds–Super Middleweights–David Benavidez (20-0, 17 KOs) vs J’Leon Love (24-2-1, 13 KO’s | |||||||||||||
ROUND | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | TOTAL |
Benavidez* | 10 | TKO | 10 | ||||||||||
Love | 9 | 9 |
Round 1 Left from Benavidez…RighBody shot from Love..Hard left rocks Love..hes in trouble on the ropes..Right..3 punch combination
Round 2 Benavidez landing in the corner..HARD RIGHT..LOVE IS HURT ON THE ROPES AND THE FIGHT IS STOPPED
10-Rounds–Bantamweights–Luis Nery (28-0, 22 KOs)–McJoe Arroyo (18-2, 8 KOs) | |||||||||||||
ROUND | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | TOTAL |
Nery* | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 40 | ||||||||
Arroyo | 9 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 32 |
Round 1 Right from Nery..
Round 2 Right to body from Arroyo,,Hard right hook from Nery..Jab..Body combination…SHORT LEFT UPPERCUT AND DOWN GOES ARROYO..Hard combination on the ropes..
Round 3 Hook from Nery…Jab…RIGHT HOOK AND DOWN GOES ARROYO…Hard jab..
Round 4 Body combination from Nery…BIG COMBINATION…DOWN GOES ARROYO..COMBINATION ON ROPES DOWN GOES ARROYO
10-Rounds–Heavyweights–Chris Arreola (37-5-1, 32 KOs) vs Jean Pierre Augustin (17-0-1, 12 KOs) | |||||||||||||
ROUND | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | TOTAL |
Arreola* | 9 | 9 | TKO | 18 | |||||||||
Augustin | 10 | 10 | 20 |
Round 1 Straight left from Augustin..Left and right..
Round 2 Augustin lands left…Jab from Arreola..
Round 3 Hard right from Arreola..Hard right..Augustin wobbled..Jab..HUGE COMBINATION AND DOWN GOES AUGUSTIN..VICIOUS COMBINATION ROCKS AUGUSTIN…FIGHT STOPPED
10-Rounds–Heavyweights–Charles Martin (25-2-1, 23 KOs) vs Gregory Corbin (15-0, 9 KOs) | |||||||||||||
ROUND | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | TOTAL |
Martin* | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | DQ | 70 | ||||
Corbin | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 60 |
Round 1: Left from Martin..Right from Corbin..2 Jabs from Martin..Right from Corbin
Round 2 Martin lands a left to the body…Good left..Hard left..
Round 3 Hard left from Martin…Left to body..Hard left…Double left..Right hook..
Round 4 CORBIN DEDUCTED A POINT FOR A LOW BLOW.. Martin cut over left eye..Right Hook from Martin and left…Cut from accidental headbutt
Round 5 Straight left from Martin..CORBIN DEDUCTED ANOTHER POINT FOR LOW BLOW..
Round 6 Good left from Martin…Hard left..ANOTHER LOW BLOW–POINT DEDUCTION FOR CORBIN..
Round 7 Left from Martin
Round 8 Right hook from Martin…CORBIN DISQUALIFIED FOR A LOW BLOW