NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA (January 12, 2024) – Fighting Irish Promotions, in collaboration with DMS Trade Shows, is set to deliver an electrifying fight card titled “The Homecoming” on February 2, 2024, at the Scotiabank Centre Halifax in Nova Scotia, Canada. The 10-round main event will feature Custio Clayton (19-1-1, 12 KOs) as he steps into the ring against Courtney Pennington (17-7-3, 7 KOs) in a super welterweight attraction. Patrice Volny (17-1, 11 KOs) goes head-to-head against Deandre Ware (16-4-2, 9 KOs) in a scheduled 10-round super middleweight co-main event bout.

“We’re thrilled to bring this stellar fight card to the Scotiabank Centre Halifax in association with our partners at DMS Trade Shows,” said Sean Sullivan, CEO of Fighting Irish Promotions. “The fighters featured on our card are local fan favorites and we are expecting a sold-out show. Fighting Irish Promotions and DMS Trade Shows are dedicated to providing a family-friendly environment where fans can enjoy an unforgettable night of boxing. We are excited to bring boxing back to Nova Scotia, especially with local fighters.”

Hailing from North Preston, Canada, Custio Clayton has fought at the world class level, having challenged the likes of Sergey Lipinets and Jaron “Boots” Ennis. He captured the NABA and WBO International welterweight titles in 2019 when he defeated Johan Perez. He’s eager to get back in the ring after being out of boxing for over a year.

“I learned a lot about myself after suffering my first defeat against Boots Ennis,” said Clayton. “The time off helped me reflect on what’s important to me and I’m ready to start my journey back to the world title. Pennington is a fighter that I’ve been training hard for, and I can’t wait to fight him in front of my people in Canada.”

Patrice Volny, from Montreal, Quebec, Canada, held the NABA and NABO middleweight titles in 2019, when he defeated Ryan Young and Uriel Gonzalez. His lone defeat came against Esquiva Falcao, in 2021. Since then, he seized a win against Abraham Juarez Ramirez in 2023. He’s looking forward to fighting back at home.

“I’m proud to be a Canadian and fighting at home brings me great joy,” stated Volny. “I’m in a tough fight against Deandre Ware, who has been in the ring with some good fighters, but I’m confident that I will come out victorious. I’m excited and I plan on putting on a great show for all my fans that will be in attendance.”

Doors open for “The Homecoming” at 6:30 pm ET with the first fight starting at 7:00 pm ET. Tickets priced $19.99 (kids under twelve are free with an adult), $59.99, Tables $800 (Back Row) $2500 (Front Row) are available for purchase this Saturday by calling the Scotiabank Centre Halifax box office at (902) 451-1221, by email at [email protected], or Ticket Master (800) 653-8000, and online at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is sponsored by www.PURENES.ca.

Undercard Bouts:

Undefeated super welterweight Miguel Angel Hernandez (7-0, 6 KOs), of Dallas, TX, will be making his Canadian debut vs. an opponent TBA. (8-rounds).

Lightweight Spencer Wilcox (6-0, 3 KOs), from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, will look to keep his unbeaten record intact vs. an opponent TBA. (8-rounds).

Local fan favorite welterweight Kyle McNeil (13-5, 2 KOs), of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, will square off against Cody Kelly (4-7-3), from Collingwood, Ontario, Canada. (6-rounds).

Light heavyweight Daniel Beaupre (4-2, 2 KOs), from Halifax, Nova Scotia, will be fighting in front of his hometown fans against an opponent TBA. (6-rounds).

Opening up the show will be unbeaten heavyweight, Brandon Osborne (1-0), from Nova Scotia, Canada, facing an opponent TBA. (4-rounds).

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About Fighting Irish Promotions:

Fighting Irish Promotions is dedicated to promoting high-quality boxing events that showcase top-tier talent and thrilling matchups. With a commitment to delivering unparalleled entertainment, Irish Boxing Promotions aims to bring the best of the sport to audiences worldwide.

About DMS Trade Shows:

DMS Trade Shows is a leading organizer of dynamic and engaging trade shows and events. Collaborating with various industries, DMS Trade Shows is committed to delivering exceptional experiences that bring together enthusiasts and businesses, fostering networking and growth opportunities.

Jermell Charlo became the undisputed super welterweight champion with an 10th round stoppage in an action packed rematch with Brian Castano at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

The fight was contested at a fast pace. It picked up from their July 17, 2021 draw. Charlo was very sharp by landing some good shots with both hands. Castano landed some good right hands of his own, but Charlo who did not lay on the ropes like he did in first encounter, was able to land some solid counter shots. The fight was fought on even terms over the opening half of the fight.

Charlo started the second half of the fight by beating Castano to the punch and started to forge ahead in the fight. In round ten, Charlo dropped Castano with a quick left hook to the body. Castano was hurt, and Charlo saw that. He jumped on Castano and landed a big left hook to the side that sent Castano down for a second time. Castano was clearly in no-position to continue and the fight was stopped at 2:33.

Charlo, 152.75 lbs of Houston, TX is now 35-1-1 with 19 knockouts. Castano, 153.75 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 17-1-2.

“This is legacy,” Charlo said in the ring afterward. “This is something that is legendary. I’m a legend. I knew Castaño was going to give it his all. I knew I had trained very, very hard but you all can see that I came in at 152 pounds because I was really in shape, and I wanted to make sure that this was my fight.”

“We showed that we are warriors,” Castaño said. “We both were fighting back-and-forth. He’s a champion. He hit me. He got me. But I’m okay.”

“I don’t care about being late,” Charlo said. “I don’t care about who’s early. I knew once I got to this arena, and I’m fighting outside in this beautiful place, I had to get it on.”

“I listened to my corner this time,” he said. “I got in my bag around the seventh round. I started sitting down a little bit more instead of boxing so much and moving around. I saw that he was wearing down a little bit and I was breaking him down. I just saw my punches being more effective. I get stronger in the later rounds if they didn’t know.”

Jaron Ennis Knocks Out Clayton in 2

Jaron Ennis took a giant step closer to a world title shot by stopping previously undefeated Custio Clayton in round two of their 12-round welterweight bout.

Ennis dominated with the jab in the opening round, and then in round two, Ennis landed a huge right to the top of the head that sent Clayton to the canvas. Clayton got up, but staggered all over the ring and the fight was stopped at 2:49.

Ennis, 146.25 lbs of Philadelphia is now 29-0 with 27 knockouts. Clayton, 146.5 lbs of Darmouth, NS, CAN is 19-1-1.

“Anybody can get it right now,” Ennis said. “But I’m the IBF No. 1 contender and I think ‘Mr. Big Fish’ is here himself, so it’s time to go fishing,” he said referencing Spence’s nickname.

“He’s doing what he’s supposed to do,” Spence told Jim Gray of SHOWTIME. “He’s supposed to call me and everybody out and say I want to fight them. If he wasn’t hungry like that, like the guy he just fought. I don’t feel like he was hungry. I don’t feel like he wanted to fight.

“Ennis can fight,” Spence went on. “I’m very high on him. He’s got the right attitude. He’s got the right team behind him with him and his dad. He’s going to go a long way. But I heard him say he wants to reel me in. You might catch something you don’t want so don’t try too hard trying to reel me in.”

“He had a high guard, so I was trying to come around with the right hook,” Ennis said. “He leaned down and I just threw an overhand. I thought he was going to get up. He’s a durable, tough guy. Nobody has ever stopped him. I thought he was going to get up, but I saw he fell again, so I was like, ‘this is over.’”

Kevin Gonzalez Decisions Emanuel Rivera

Kevin Gonzalez remained undefeated by scoring a 10-round unanimous decision over Emanuel Rivera in a super bantamweight fight.

In round two, Gonzalez began to bleed from the nose.

In round seven, Gonzalez began to bleed around the right eye.

Gonzalez landed 159 of 585 punches; Rivera was 139 of 606.

Gonzalez, 121 lbs of Culican, MEX won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 96-94 and is now 25-0-1. Rivera, 121.75 lbs of Toa Baja, PR is 19-3.

“Rivera was a quality opponent,” González said. “He and I had a classic Mexican versus Puerto Rican war and I hope that the fans enjoyed it. Bring on all the champions. I’m going to fight as soon as my promoter tells me to, in order to become the world champion I want to be.”

SANTA MONICA – May 11, 2022 – Unified WBC, WBA, and IBF 154-pound world champion Jermell Charlo and unbeaten welterweight rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis previewed their respective upcoming showdowns at a media workout in Los Angeles Wednesday, before they enter the ring this Saturday, May 14 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Charlo made clear his goal is to prevent the judges from deciding his fate when he faces WBO 154-pound world champion Brian Castaño in a rematch of one of 2021’s most significant fights, which ended in a hotly contested split draw They again will seek to become the first undisputed super welterweight male champion of the four-belt era.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also feature Philadelphia’s Ennis in an IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator against unbeaten Canadian Olympian Custio Clayton that serves as the co-main event. Ennis said he was looking forward to recording a knockout in front of a new Southern California fanbase, and he also predicted a win for Charlo in the rematch. 

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from Churchill Boxing Club in Santa Monica:

JERMELL CHARLO

“I don’t want this fight to go the distance. I don’t get paid for overtime.

“I’m excited and I’m ready to go. I’m ready to rock. I’m putting it all on the line and I’m ready to destroy. I’m going to give the fans an exciting and entertaining show and just have fun out there.

“Castaño is going to have to do something different this fight. If not, he knows he’s getting slept. Whatever he does or whatever move he makes, I’m going to be on him. My goal is to knock him out.

“I approach this fight like I approach any fight. I come in there like I’m 0-0. Let’s go in there and see who’s better. Let’s see who the real dog is.

“I don’t take much from the last rematch I had against Tony Harrison. That was a totally different opponent. I’m just preparing for Castaño. There’s no correlation with my last rematch. I’m just focused on who I’m facing.

“I’m just focused on my career and my craft. Being on the undisputed list means more to me than being on pound-for-pound lists. I want to be on the top tier and for people to see that I’m undisputed and say that he’s an animal. This is my moment.

“I’ve made some changes, but it’s still going to be the same Jermell Charlo. I’m ready to take advantage of what’s in front of me.

“I don’t know if this fight will be like the first one. It could be a quicker night. It should be. If not, it’s going to be entertaining for 12 rounds.

“I don’t worry about pound-for-pound lists and whether I’m on them. If I win these belts, they might have to. If I go in there and knock him out, or handle my business for 12 rounds, that’s it. They won’t be able to deny me.

“I haven’t fought at this venue since much earlier in my career. It’s a little bit chilly right now in Southern California, but I know that once I get warmed up, I’ll be able to adapt no matter what it’s like Saturday.”

JARON ENNIS

“It doesn’t matter to me who I’m facing. I want everybody and anybody. They can line ‘em up, and I’ll knock ‘em down. Doesn’t matter who it is.

“Everyone already knows how this fight is going to go. I’m going to put on a show. I’m going to get in the ring and be dominant. I’m getting that knockout at the end of the night and making a statement.

“It feels great to be performing here in Southern California. I can’t wait for Saturday to shine in front of my new fans. It’s a new fanbase to see me get another knockout.

“I don’t know too much about my opponent. I don’t usually watch film on who I’m fighting, unless I’ve just seen it by chance. I let my team look at those kind of things. I’m not too worried about what he’s going to bring.

“I’m going to do what I always do. I can figure these opponents out in like 30 seconds. I see how they’re coming and go from there.

“I feel like I’m going to get my opportunity sooner than later. I think end of the year or next year is possible. I’m either going to fight Errol Spence Jr. or Terence Crawford, or fight for a vacant belt. 

“I don’t believe that any fighter is scared of another fighter. I know the top guys are just making business decisions. It’s what’s best for their careers. If I can’t get the top welterweights while they’re here, I’ll see them at 154 pounds.

“I don’t feel like I have to prove anything to anyone but myself. I’m not worried about any outside noise. As long as I’m doing my thing and winning, putting myself in line for the world title, then that’s all that matters.

“Charlo and Castaño should both be confident heading into this fight. They went to war the first time, but I think Charlo will win this time. I think he figured Castaño out. Charlo was picking it up at the end of the first fight and I think he’s going to start earlier this time and go for the knockout.”

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ABOUT CHARLO VS. CASTAÑO II 

Charlo vs. Castaño II will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF World Champion Jermell Charloand WBO World Champion Brian Castañoin a rematch of one of 2021’s most significant fights as they again seek to become the first ever undisputed 154-pound champion in the four-belt era on Saturday, May 14 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature rising welterweight star and pound-for-pound talent Jaron “Boots” Ennis dueling unbeaten Canadian Olympian Custio Clayton in an IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, Mexican contender Kevin González puts his unbeaten record on the line against Puerto Rico’s Emanuel Rivera in a 10-round super bantamweight attraction.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CharloCastano2, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

PHILADELPHIA – May 9, 2022 – Undefeated rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis reiterated his intention to “take over” the star-studded 147-pound division ahead of his IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator showdown against fellow unbeaten Custio Clayton in the co-main event of action this Saturday, May 14 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

“I’m looking to make a big statement come May 14,” said Ennis. “I’m coming to win in dominating fashion and get the knockout. I’m ready to take over this division.”

Trained in his native Philadelphia by his father “Bozy” Ennis, the 24-year-old Ennis has continued to push his already renowned training habits ahead of his upcoming fight and has added elite sparring against a collection of noteworthy fighters including unbeaten U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell and rising contender Paul Kroll.

“I’m feeling great,” said Ennis. “Camp has been going very well and I can’t wait to shine on May 14. I’m ready to rock and roll. We’ve been running a lot more sprints this camp and focusing a little more on conditioning each day, about a half an hour more every session. A lot of it are the normal things we do, like the underwater treadmill and chopping wood, we’re just working ten times harder.”

After a 2021 campaign that saw him knock out former champion Sergey Lipinets in a headlining bout on SHOWTIME in April, before stopping the normally durable Thomas Dulorme in one round in October, Ennis believes that he can shine even brighter and show an even greater range of abilities as the strength of his opposition increases.

“I feel like I’m getting better at taking my time and being more relaxed in the ring,” said Ennis. “I believe that the better the competition I face, the better I’m going to be. We’ve been working on jabbing more and being even more alert and sharper.”

In Clayton, Ennis will be up against an undefeated fighter with considerable pedigree, having competed for his native Canada at the 2012 Olympic games. While Ennis chooses not to focus on studying his opponent, he knows that he’ll have to be ready for a multitude of scenarios to achieve his desired result on fight night.

“I don’t watch tape on people that I fight,” said Ennis. “I let my team focus on that. We’re prepared all the way around. I don’t prepare just one way, because you don’t know how a fighter is going to fight you. So we just prepare for everything.

“This fight is everything to me. This is a big stage and it’s time for me to shine. From here on out, it’s only getting bigger and better. After I do my thing on May 14, we’re just going to keep going up and up. I’m looking to show everyone everything that I’m capable of. My speed, power, defense, ring IQ and footwork. At the end of the night, I’m coming for the knockout. That’s what the fans are coming to see. I’m going to show them what I can do and close the show with a knockout.”

As he continues his ascent up the welterweight rankings, Ennis has his sights set squarely on the division’s two stalwarts, unified WBC, WBA and IBF champion Errol Spence Jr. and WBO champion Terence Crawford. Even if a potential Spence-Crawford undisputed title fight comes to fruition first and eventually leads to Ennis fighting for vacant 147-pound titles, he believes those big fights will eventually become a reality.

“It doesn’t matter to me if Spence and Crawford decide to stay in the division and face me,” said Ennis. “I’d love to take the belts away from the champion, but if I have to fight for a vacant belt, I’ll see Spence and Crawford at 154 pounds. They can’t go too far.”

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

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ABOUT CHARLO VS. CASTAÑO II
Charlo vs. Castaño II will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF World Champion Jermell Charlo and WBO World Champion Brian Castaño in a rematch of one of 2021’s most significant fights as they again seek to become the first ever undisputed 154-pound champion in the four-belt era on Saturday, May 14 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature rising welterweight star and pound-for-pound talent Jaron “Boots” Ennis dueling unbeaten Canadian Olympian Custio Clayton in an IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, Mexican contender Kevin González puts his unbeaten record on the line against Puerto Rico’s Emanuel Rivera in a 10-round super bantamweight attraction.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CharloCastano2, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

CARSON, CALIF. – March 30, 2022 – Unified WBC, WBA and IBF World Champion Jermell Charlo and WBO World Champion Brian Castaño will meet in a rematch of one of 2021’s most significant fights as again seek to become the first ever undisputed 154-pound champion in the four-belt era on Saturday, May 14 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event. Charlo vs. Castaño II was previously announced to take place on March 19, but was rescheduled after Castaño suffered an arm injury in training.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature rising welterweight star and pound-for-pound talent Jaron “Boots” Ennis dueling unbeaten Canadian Olympian Custio Clayton in an IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, Mexican contender Kevin González puts his unbeaten record on the line against Puerto Rico’s Emanuel Rivera in a 10-round super bantamweight attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Lions Only Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, March 31 at 12 p.m. PT and can be purchased through AXS.com. Ennis vs. Clayton is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

“Saturday, May 14 will feature a scintillating card live on SHOWTIME as fans will be able to enjoy three high-stakes fights, topped by the eagerly anticipated undisputed championship rematch between Jermell Charlo and Brian Castaño,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Charlo and Castaño have proven once again that they are true warriors by going directly into this rematch that fans across the world demanded after the conclusion of their dramatic and unforgettable first fight. Now, the rabid sports fans in Southern California and watching live on SHOWTIME will get a front row seat to what shapes up to be an exceptional sequel at Dignity Health Sports Park, a venue renowned for hosting all-action contests.”

In an instant classic, Charlo and Castaño went toe-to-toe for 12 grueling rounds on July 17, 2021 on SHOWTIME, with the back-and-forth tilt ending in a split-decision draw. Each fighter believed they had done enough to have their hand raised in the first fight and will look to leave no doubt in the rematch.

Houston’s Charlo (34-1-1, 18 KOs) became a unified champion in September 2020, dropping Jeison Rosario three times on his way to an eighth-round knockout that earned him the WBA and IBF titles. Before that fight, Charlo had avenged the only loss of his career, as he reclaimed his WBC belt via an 11th-round knockout of Tony Harrison in one of 2019’s best fights. The 31-year-old is trained by Derrick James in Dallas and won his first world title in his debut fight with James by scoring an eighth-round knockout of John Jackson in 2016. He followed up that victory with three successful defenses, knocking out Erickson Lubin and Charles Hatley, and winning a decision over former world champion Austin Trout. Charlo returns to the same stadium where he won his first 12-round fight in a victory over Demetrius Hopkins in 2013.

“I’m the unified champ and I’ve got business to finish,” said Charlo. “My total goal as a kid was to win all of the belts as a professional and I plan to make history yet again on May 14, in front of my west coast fans and all across the world. If you know me, you know how I don’t take opportunities lightly – Lions Only, the time is now! Make sure you tune-in May 14.”

The 32-year-old Castaño (17-0-2, 12 KOs) put on a spectacular performance to capture the WBO title in February 2021, as he dominated Patrick Teixeira to wrest the belt away via unanimous decision. A native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, a win for Castaño on May 14 would be a monumental achievement in the storied history of Argentine boxing. Prior to winning his title, Castaño fought to a draw against two-division world champion Erislandy Lara in a 2019 action fight. He also owns triumphs over Michel Soro, Cedric Vitu and Wale Omotoso. A highly experienced amateur, Castaño notched victories over unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. and top middleweight Sergiy Derevyanchenko before he turned pro.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to face Charlo again for all four titles,” said Castaño. “This is champion vs. champion, just like it should be. The first fight was a great war. The rematch will be no different, but this time I won’t leave it in the judges’ hands. This is my era, and I will prove it.”

Ennis (28-0, 26 KOs) is the latest in the pantheon of outstanding Philadelphia fighters, combining sublime boxing skills with natural power in both hands. After numerous appearances on SHOBOX: The New Generation, the 24-year-old Ennis graduated to headlining his first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast in April 2021, as he became the first fighter to stop former world champion Sergey Lipinets. He followed up that performance with an impressive first-round stoppage of veteran contender Thomas Dulorme in October. The knockout victory gave Ennis 18 KOs in his last 19 fights, with the only blemish being a no-decision in the first round against Chris van Heerden in December 2020.

“I can’t wait for this fight,” said Ennis. “This one means a lot to me. This is another step towards becoming a world champion. My time is now. Camp is going great, and I can’t wait to shine and put on a spectacular performance come May 14. It’s time for me to continue making big statements.”

A 2012 Canadian Olympian, Clayton (19-0-1, 12 KOs) fights out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada and will compete in the U.S. for the third straight time on May 14. The 34-year-old impressed in his U.S. debut in 2020, stepping in as a late replacement to fight former world champion Sergey Lipinets to a draw on SHOWTIME. Clayton most recently earned a 10-round unanimous decision over Cameron Krael in December 2021. He also owns 2019 victories over former champion DeMarcus Corley and Johan Perez, in addition to a 12-round decision win over then unbeaten Stephen Danyo in 2018.

“I love challenges and I know that I have a real one on May 14 against Jaron Ennis,” said Clayton. “That’s why I’m in this sport, to fight the best. When I prove myself against Ennis, nobody is going to be able to deny me a shot at the belts.”

The 24-year-old González (24-0-1, 13 KOs) will step in for his U.S. debut when he challenges Rivera on May 14 in Carson. A native of Sinaloa, Mexico, González has fought professionally since 2016, and owns a unanimous decision over former title challenger Ivan Morales in March 2021. González won a regional 122-pound title by stopping Alexander Mejia in July 2021, finishing the fight in round seven. Most recently, Gonzalez scored a first-round TKO over Antonio Guzman in December 2021.

“I am very happy to be fighting on a card of this magnitude,” said González. “To have my debut in the U.S. be on this stage, it is an opportunity that I have to take advantage of. No matter who my opponent is, I will always be ready and at my best. I am going to show everyone that I’m ready for the champions.”

Representing his native Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Rivera (19-2, 12 KOs) looks to make it three-straight victories on May 14. The 32-year-old put together a 12-fight winning streak between 2011 and 2017 before dropping a decision to then unbeaten Nate Green. Rivera returned to action after that fight in July 2021, winning a unanimous decision over Jonathan Lecona Ramos in his U.S. debut. Most recently, he stopped Wallington Orobio in November 2021.

“I was training at the gym when my manager told me I was going to be in this card,” said Rivera. “We never say no to any opponent that wants to fight me. I hope González is at 100% too, because I want us to put on a show for the fans and I want to continue on my way to fight for a world title. This is an opportunity I can´t let pass me by.”?

Sergey Lipinets and Custio Clayton battled to a 12-round majority draw in an IBF Interim Welterweight World title bout at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut.

The fight was a close battle that saw Lipinets try to press the action, while Clayton countered effectively by showing a strong jab and counter attack. Clayton showed his mettle in the later rounds and he threw and landed more punches.

Lipinets landed 175 of 610 punches; Clayton was 247 of 687.

In the end, Clayton won a card 115-113, while two cards were even at 114-114.

Lipinets, 147 lbs of Kazakhstan is 16-1-1. Clayton, 147 lbs of Dartmouth, CAN is 18-0-1.

Sergey Lipinets

“I thought I won the fight, but Clayton is a good fighter. He was stronger than I thought he’d be. I haven’t fought in a year and it shows. I need to get my rhythm back in a couple of fights before I face the top level fighters.

“For the interim title, I’ll be ready for a rematch with Clayton.

“The guy didn’t do anything and he was running. I threw more punches and I connected on more punches.”

Custio Clayton

“I thought I did enough to win the fight. It was a close fight, but I landed the cleaner shots.

“At the end of the day, you can’t knock the judges’ decision, but I thought that I landed the cleaner shots and won. He came forward a lot, but he wasn’t landing as much. I probably could have pushed more a little earlier, but at the same time, I knew he was strong. I thought I stayed patient and poised. I could have put combinations together quicker, but overall I thought I fought a smart fight and pulled it off.

“I showed the world that I’m not just a guy from Canada. I proved I’m a good fighter. People will have to respect me a little bit more. If Lipinets wants the rematch for the interim title, we should be able to make that happen.”

Martinez survives Two Knockdowns; Decisions Marrero

Xavier Martinez was able to withstand two knockdowns, and win a 12-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Claudio Marrero in a super featherweight bout.

Martinez controlled the 1st seven-plus rounds.

In round eight, Marrero dropped Martinez with a short right hook. Seconds later, it was a hard flurry of about six punches that put Martinez down for a 2nd time. A mouse started to form under the right eye of Marrero. In round 10, Marrero began to swell around his right eye.

Martinez landed 128 of 579 punches; Marrero was 161 of 625

Martinez was able to bank enough rounds down the stretch, and win by scores of 115-111 and 114-112 twice.

Martinez, 130 lbs of Sacramento, CA is 16-0. Marrero, 130.75 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 24-5.

Xavier Martínez 

“To be honest, it was weird when I got knocked down. I just said, ‘Let’s get back up.’ Losing wasn’t on my mind. I just thought I have to get up. I’m not happy I went down but it’s all an experience. A lot of guys wouldn’t have fought Claudio. He was tough. But I rose to the occasion and I proved something to myself.

“Not every win is going to be pretty and a knockout, but if you can pull yourself out of tough situations it proves what type of fighter you are.

“I knew it wasn’t going to be a cake walk. I told [trainer] Ray [Woods] I might hit this guy a couple of times and he might not drop. It’s all part of the experience.”

Claudio Marrero

“I feel like it was a bad decision. I don’t think the judges took into account all the hard work I did in the ring. I wouldn’t do anything different if I fought him again. I would fight the same way. I fought smart and I put pressure on him.

“He hits hard, but I recovered quickly. I felt like I won the fight.”

Matias Stops Hawkins in 7!!

Subriel Matias stopped previously undefeated Malik Hawkins in round seven of their scheduled 10-round junior welterweight bout.

Matias applied immense pressure throughout the fight that had Hawkins going back.

In round six, Matias landed a left hook to the head that sent Hawkins to a knee. The right eye of Hawkins started to swell and the fight was stopped one-second into round seven.

Matias, 139.5 lbs of Fajardo, PR is 16-1 with all 16 coming via stoppage. Hawkins, 140 lbs of Baltimore, MD is 18-1.

Subriel Matías

“The biggest difference between this fight and my last loss was the way I trained in the gym. I didn’t train as much as I should have (for the last fight). Malik didn’t have the power to hurt me. In the first round, I knew that. And that’s when I kept moving forward and starting hurting him in the body. And that’s what I kept doing, just going to the body.

“I’ll fight anyone. Whoever they put in front of me. I want a title eliminator, and then I want to fight for a world title.”

Malik Hawkins

“He was doing a bunch of dirty things in the fight. I’m not going to sit here and cry over spilled milk. He was the better man tonight. I’m back in the gym.”

NEW YORK – October 22, 2020 – Former world champion Sergey Lipinets and unbeaten Custio Clayton previewed their battle for the interim IBF Welterweight Title Thursday during media availability on Zoom in advance of their main event bout live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, October 24 from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The media availability also featured undefeated contender Xavier Martinez and hard-hitting Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero, who will duel in a 12-round WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus rising super lightweight Malik “Iceman” Hawkins and knockout artist Subriel Matias, who will kick off the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITIONat 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT in a 10-round showdown.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions, Lee Baxter Promotions and Mayweather Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

SERGEY LIPINETS

“We stayed in the gym the whole time. Joe Goossen kept us working every day of the week. We were actually getting ready for several possible opponents at once. Everything really went as planned.

“Clayton’s name was thrown out probably a month ago as a possibility. Joe took care of studying him initially. About a week ago we got everything solidified, but we had already worked with sparring partners to prepare for someone like Clayton.

“It was really all about Joe putting pieces together for my style no matter who we were going to face. People might not think it, but I can box and move around the ring well. Joe has added elements to it that made it a more fluid style.

“Clayton is definitely a great fighter. He was an Olympian, which says a lot in itself. He’s shown in the pros that he can punch well, so we know he’s dangerous. We both come forward and try to fight. It’s going to be a very entertaining fight.

“I don’t look past Clayton. I have to win that fight and I’m 100% focused on him. But I do believe that I belong on the level with Errol Spence Jr. and the other elite welterweights. I think I’ve shown that my whole career. Before I can look at a fight against Spence or Danny Garcia, I have to win on Saturday.”

CUSTIO CLAYTON

“The truth is that I’ve been preparing for the possibility of this fight for four or five weeks. I’m not underprepared whatsoever. I was ready to fight when I got the call. How do you say no to a fight like this? I have had a great camp and I feel confident and ready for Saturday night.

“I think this is a very good matchup. Lipinets is a very good fighter. He’s a former world champion and from what I’ve seen he always comes to fight. Most people look at me as an aggressive fighter as well. I always like to bang, but I think you are going to see a different side to me.

“People who know me know that I’m very low-key and laid back, so not much gets to me, but this is a very, very big opportunity and I’m thankful for it. I’m not the type to jump in excitement but I am definitely very happy that I got the call for this fight. Now we are focused on preparing for Lipinets.

“I think my boxing ability is going to be the biggest factor in this fight. It’s just that nobody has seen it yet. That will be the big key. People don’t understand how smart I am. I don’t look at the size. I’m prepared for whatever.”

“I think a win would do a lot for the reputation of Canadian boxers. It will show that we do have some fighters that when they get the opportunity, can take advantage of it. We have a couple fighters like Jean Pascal and hopefully that I can show I can be another one. All the hard work I did back in Nova Scotia, it shows that people can take different routes to chase their dreams. A win would mean a lot to me and to Novia Scotia.”

XAVIER MARTINEZ

“I’ve been in camp since July because I thought I was going to fight in August, but there was a change of plans. So I’ve had a very long camp and I’m more than ready for Saturday night. I’m not going to chase a knockout, but my plan is to get him out within seven rounds. If it doesn’t go that way, I already know I’m going to win no matter what.

“I feel like this fight is a big step-up. I get the opportunity to show off my skills against somebody who has experience. But just because he has more experience, doesn’t mean he’s better than me. I’m very excited to fight. I haven’t fought in a while, so Saturday night you guys are going to be in for a treat.

“Having the fight postponed wasn’t too much of a disruption. I was a little upset about it but you have to take everything in stride. I looked at it as I have two more weeks to prepare and I was actually able to eat for a couple nights before I got right back on my diet. I was happy to eat.

“I see that he’s been stopped before. I’m not looking for a knockout, but my plan is to go in there and overwhelm him with combinations and pressure. After this fight, I hope to be able to get a world title fight for my next fight or at least within two fights. The goal is to get to that world title fight and right now Marrero is standing in the way of that. I need to knock him out of the way.

“The game plan is to go in there and be me. I’m going to adjust to whatever he does, make the changes I need to make and execute the plan that my coach Ray [Woods] has in store for me.”

CLAUDIO MARRERO

“There were some personal things I was dealing with in the past, and going up in weight has been new, but I’m very confident with myself right now and with my preparations.

“I respect my opponent. I don’t know much about Martinez. He’s a young lion trying to come up. Other than that, he’s just another fighter in the way.

“A win against Martinez would be good for my career. He’s not a world champion or anything like that. I don’t know exactly what it will do, but for me he’s just another fighter. He’s just another win I will get on Saturday.

“To go all the way down to 126 pounds I would have to lose like 30 pounds. So moving up in weight and being given the extra five pounds is huge for me. Physically I’m feeling so strong right now.

“SHOWTIME is my house. Nobody beats me on SHOWTIME!”

MALIK HAWKINS

“I’m feeling great heading into this fight. I’ve had a tremendous training camp with a lot of different types of sparring. I’ve sparred with Terence Crawford, Jaron Ennis, Jamel Herring and Maurice Hooker. Now I know that come Saturday I’m prepared for any type of look Matias is willing to bring.

“Training during the pandemic didn’t really affect me physically, just mentally, because I was set to fight in the summer. Then we had to readjust, but you can’t cry over spilled milk.

“We definitely looked at Matias’ last fight. Everyone looked at his record before that fight, but what we saw is that if you actually fight him back, he’s more of a B or C class fighter. I think that’s the type of fighter he is.

“His team is using the excuse that he didn’t take his last opponent seriously. With the way I train, it doesn’t matter if my opponent is 0-20. I’m always going to come into the fight at my very best.

“One thing I know is that he’s going to try to bully me, but that’s what I’ve always done. I’m not going to sit there and let him beat me at my own game.

“I don’t really pay attention to someone’s knockout ratio. Those knockouts didn’t come against anyone who fights like me. I’m just looking at this like an opportunity to get closer to my world title shot.”

SUBRIEL MATIAS

“I have only myself to blame for losing my last fight. In boxing everyone pays the consequences and I paid the last time considering my camp wasn’t the best one. I have made the adjustments I needed to make. I’m motivated to prove everyone wrong. I’m ready for this fight physically and mentally.

“Excuses are for losers. I have nothing to say about the last fight except my opponent got the better of me. Come Saturday, you will see the difference.

“My record speaks for itself with 15 knockouts, so I don’t have to change as a fighter. I know who I am as a fighter.

“Malik says the fight won’t go the distance. And I agree with that prediction.”

#

ABOUT LIPINETS VS. CLAYTON
Lipinets vs. Clayton will see former world champion Sergey Lipinets face unbeaten Custio Clayton for the Interim IBF Welterweight Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 24 from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see undefeated contender Xavier Martínez battle hard-hitting Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero in a 12-round WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Rising super lightweight Malik “Iceman” Hawkins will duel knockout artist Subriel Matías in a 10-round showdown to kick off the televised action.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions, Lee Baxter Promotions and Mayweather Promotions.

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

NEW YORK (October 20, 2020) – Even with a change in date and then opponent, former world champion Sergey Lipinets remains supremely confident in his training camp and overall preparations as he prepares to take on unbeaten Custio Clayton for the Interim IBF Welterweight Title live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, October 24 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

“We never missed a beat in preparation, even with the opponent change,” said Lipinets. “My fight with Kudratillo Abdukakhorov was on and off for so long that I already had an idea that he was going to be forced to back out, so I wasn’t shocked. I don’t really care, though. Whoever I have to fight I’m ready to fight, so I didn’t consider backing out of fighting for even one second.”

Lipinets credits his trainer, the renowned Joe Goossen, for helping his fighter mentally through the changes, in addition to the physical training they have undertook heading into the fight.

“Having Joe Goossen is like having a psychiatrist as well as a trainer,” said Lipinets. “He’s been extremely helpful about how to approach all of this. Joe helped me stay calm and understand that something good can always come from a bad or difficult situation, and because of that, I never lost focus.”

Clayton is a Canadian Olympian with an unblemished pro resume heading into this showdown. While Lipinets notes that there are differences in the fighting styles between Abdukakhorov and Clayton, none of it changes his intent on October 24.

“I know that Clayton has a great amateur background,” said Lipinets. “I’ve checked out his style, and the main difference is that Abdukakhorov is more active and Clayton is more accurate. Abdukakhorov is also a little more aggressive and Clayton is more patient.

“I don’t think one is tougher or easier than the other. I think that anyone fighting at this level is a difficult opponent. Abdukakhorov moves around more and can be more awkward with the different styles he uses. Both are very tough guys, but I’m ready for Clayton and focused only on him at this point.”

Despite his sole focus on Clayton, Lipinets knows that this fight brings a big opportunity to make a loud proclamation to the rest of the stacked welterweight division with a big performance to capture the interim IBF title.

“I’m prepared to make one statement – I belong here,” said Lipinets. “I want to fight the best. I want to make my imprint on this sport and build my legacy. I’ve had to do it the hard way, but I’m not complaining. I fought for my first championship in just my 13th pro fight. I believe that I belong right there at the top of this sport. People need to start mentioning my name with the top guys and after this fight they’ll have to. You can’t look past me anymore.”

#

ABOUT LIPINETS VS. CLAYTON
Lipinets vs. Clayton will see former world champion Sergey Lipinets face unbeaten Custio Clayton for the Interim IBF Welterweight Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 24 from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see undefeated contender Xavier Martínez battle hard-hitting Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero in a 12-round WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Rising super lightweight Malik “Iceman” Hawkins will duel knockout artist Subriel Matías in a 10-round showdown to kick off the televised action.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions, Lee Baxter Promotions and Mayweather Promotions.

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

NEW YORK – October 15, 2020 – Former world champion Sergey Lipinets will now face unbeaten Custio Clayton for the Interim IBF Welterweight Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 24 from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Kudratillo Abdukakhorov, who was originally scheduled to face Lipinets, was forced to withdraw because of visa issues.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see undefeated contender Xavier Martínez battle hard-hitting Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero in a 12-round WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Rising super lightweight Malik “Iceman” Hawkins will duel knockout artist Subriel Matías in a 10-round showdown to kick off the televised action.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions, Lee Baxter Promotions and Mayweather Promotions.

“Custio Clayton is an outstanding replacement opponent given the late change and should provide a stiff test against Sergey Lipinets on October 24,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Clayton was already deep into training and will bring a wealth of experience, from his amateur days through his impressive pro career, into this showdown with Lipinets. This is a great opportunity for Clayton to announce himself as a welterweight contender against one of the division’s most dangerous fighters.”

“I’m very happy to have this opportunity,” said Clayton. “This is exactly the type of fight me and my team have been asking for. My preparation has been very good. This might seem like it’s last-minute, but I am more than ready for whatever Lipinets brings on October 24.”

The 31-year-old Lipinets (16-1, 12 KOs) will look to remain unbeaten since moving up to welterweight in 2018 and position himself for further title opportunities in the welterweight division. Born in Kazakhstan and representing Russia, Lipinets now lives in Woodland Hills, Calif. and is trained by renowned coach Joe Goossen. Lipinets has put together three straight victories since losing his 140-pound title to four-division champion Mikey Garcia in March 2018. Lipinets scored two victories in 2019, including a stoppage of two-division champion Lamont Peterson in one of the year’s most exciting fights.

A 2012 Canadian Olympian, Clayton (18-0, 12 KOs) fights out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada and will make his U.S. debut on October 24. The 33-year-old is unbeaten since turning pro in 2014 and most recently scored a knockout victory over Diego Ramirez in January. Clayton owns 2019 triumphs over former champion DeMarcus Corley and Johan Perez, in addition to a 12-round decision win over then unbeaten Stephen Danyo in 2018.

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

NIAGARA FALLS, ON– The fighting pride of Nova Scotia, Custio Clayton, will be waging the biggest battle of his professional career on June 29 at the Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls, and fans in his home province will now be able to tune in live.

Lee Baxter Promotions and Eastlink have partnered to bring the June 29 event, featuring Clayton’s bout against Johan Perez, to viewers across Nova Scotia. The telecast will begin at 9:00 PM ADT (8:00 PM ET) on Eastlink.

“Custio is one of the real sporting heroes in Nova Scotia. His fans back home haven’t always had an easily accessible way to watch him fight, so it was important to us to build a relationship with Eastlink in order to change that,” said Lee Baxter.

Clayton, a 2012 Olympian, has fought in Quebec and Ontario exclusively as a professional, compiling an undefeated record of 16-0, and rankings in some of the sport’s major sanctioning bodies. A win over Perez on this night would put him in a prime position for a potential shot at a world title.

“We take great pride in sharing locally meaningful and relevant content that showcases the people, places and events that shape our communities,” says Deborah Shaffner, Eastlink CEO. “Local sporting events and hometown heroes have always been an important part of community; they bring us together. There’s nothing more exciting and inspiring than watching a hometown favourite battle it out for top prize. We’re thrilled to provide a platform that enables Nova Scotian fans to support and cheer on Custio in his next pivotal match.”

In his most recent bout, Clayton dominated and stopped former world champion DeMarcus Corley, who has shared the ring with legends such as Floyd Mayweather and Miguel Cotto. The 29-year old Dartmouth native hopes to land megafights of his own in the very near future—potentially on home soil.

“Our goal is to bring a world title fight to Nova Scotia,” said Baxter. “First Custio has to get past Perez, who is no pushover, but assuming he can do that, the wheels can be set in motion towards putting on the biggest night of boxing the province has ever seen.”

The June 29 telecast will be a three-fight broadcast, also including all-action warrior Samuel Vargas, who is fresh off an ESPN main event at Madison Square Garden against Luis Collazo, and top Irish prospect Lee Reeves, who was touted by heavyweight champion Tyson Fury as “Ireland’s next superstar.”

Fans across Atlantic Canada can tune in on Eastlink Community TV Channel 10 and 610. The broadcast will begin at 9:00 PM ADT (8:00 PM ET).

TORONTO, ON—On Canada Day weekend, the real fireworks will be inside the ring at the Scotiabank Convention Centre, as Lee Baxter Promotions presents another night of world class professional boxing on June 29.

After developing a partnership following last year’s successful event at the Scotiabank Convention Centre, the two have come together to do it a second time—this time, with an absolutely stacked card, full of top talent from Canada and across the globe.

In the main event, one of Canada’s top pound-for-pound fighters, Custio Clayton, will battle former two-time interim world champion Johan Perez, with multiple titles on the line. The winner will be elevated into a top ranking in several sanctioning bodies in the welterweight division.

Clayton made his debut under the Lee Baxter Promotions banner earlier this year, destroying former world champion DeMarcus Corley in Toronto, and looks to keep his momentum at full throttle in 2019.

“Custio is one of the most celebrated fighters in Canada of this generation, when you include his Olympic pedigree, so it’s only fitting that he’s the one headlining on Canada Day weekend, one of the busiest weekends of the year in Niagara,” said Baxter. “Custio is a hero back home in Nova Scotia, but he’s known and appreciated everywhere in the country, especially with Niagara’s fight fans.”

In the co-feature, Samuel Vargas will return to Canadian soil after his thrilling war with Luis Collazo on ESPN, against an opponent to be named shortly. Vargas and Collazo stole the show at Madison Square Garden on St. Patrick’s Day—even in the eyes of the Irish faithful there to see Michael Conlan.

Canadian fans have known all about how exciting Vargas can be for years, as he’s spilled blood and thrilled crowds across the country throughout his entire career, including his battle against Maximilliano Godoy in the same venue in Niagara just last year.

“Sammy is finally getting recognition from the fight fans across the world for what.we’ve always known—in the right fights, this guy can be the Gatti or Ward of this generation. Whoever he’s in with on June 29, you can expect action,” said Baxter.

Opening the night will be Irish superstar Lee Reeves, who is fresh off a one round demolition job of Guillermo Lettieri that rocked the Danforth Music Hall crowd in downtown Toronto. Already at 4-0 in his first full year as a professional, Reeves will get a chance to show his skills in front of a new audience in Niagara Falls.

“As Tyson Fury has said, Lee is the next Irish superstar in boxing, and he will be the next threat in the super lightweight division as well,” said Baxter. “At this rate, it won’t take long for either of those things to happen. Getting a chance to see Reeves in an atmosphere like this early in his career could be something the fight fans in attendance will remember for a long time.”

Finally, Niagara’s own future star, Joshuah Lupia, will close out the action in a special attraction bout against an opponent to be named soon. Thus far, none of Lupia’s three pro fights have gone the distance, as the prospect has scored knockouts in all three of them. He hasn’t been in action since last year at the Scotiabank Convention Centre, and is itching to put on another memorable performance for his home crowd.

The card will be broadcast globally, with doors opening at 6:30 PM ET the first bell at 6:45 PM ET. Main broadcasted bouts will air between 8:00 and 10:00 PM ET.

Tickets will go on sale shortly, and will start at just $70.

It was a monstrous weekend for the stars of the Lee Baxter Promotions family over the weekend, on both sides of the border.

In Toronto, LBP presented a tremendous night of action downtown at the historic Mattamy Athletic Centre. Not only is the venue located on the same plot of land as Maple Leaf Gardens, but the very date of the event, March 29, fell on the same night as the biggest fight in the city’s history—Muhammad Ali vs. George Chuvalo.

Perhaps Canada’s next superstar, Custio Clayton, kept the hype train chugging along with an impressive stoppage win over former world champion DeMarcus “Chop Chop” Corley in the sixth round of their featured bout. Though Corley gave him some solid frames through rounds 1 through 5, Clayton was clearly in control from start to finish. In the sixth, Clayton forced Corley back into the ropes, where he uncorked a flurry that kept the veteran on the canvas for good. Corley is known as one of boxing’s most durable gatekeepers, and despite being past his best days, a KO win over “Chop Chop” remains notable.

“Whenever you face Chop Chop, you excpect a tough fight, and you expect to go rounds. This is a guy who’s gone the distance with Floyd Mayweather and Zab Judah, and got on the floor nine times against Lucas Matthysse. He’s as tough as they come, and he doesn’t lay down for anybody. This is just more proof that Custio Clayton is everything he’s been hyped up to be,” said Lee Baxter.

In the main event, fan favorite Stanyslav Skorokhod had the Mattamy Centre rocking with a thunderous second round knockout over Jose Luis Zuniga. Skorokhod, and his fellow countryman Oleksandr Teslenko (who was victorious over Fabio Maldonado in a NABA heavyweight title bout the same night) attracted a raucous Ukrainian contingent once again in the Toronto region. It was the third consecutive knockout victory for Skorokhod on Canadian soil.

“From a promoter’s standpoint, you couldn’t ask for anything more. Stan brought out a dedicated fanbase that made for an incredible atmosphere, and he gave them exactly what they wanted—he closed the show,” said Baxter.

On the undercard, Canada’s top middleweight, Patrice Volny, made short work of the previously undefeated Nicolas Holcapfel of Slovakia. Volny demonstrated a vicious body attack, particularly for a lanky puncher like himself, hurting Holcapfel to the body in the second round before finishing him with a punishing left hook downstairs.

“Patrice had a really busy 2018, with lots of tough fights, so it was nice to see him get Holcapfel out of there early. Spending more time in the gym with Custio Clayton and their trainer Eric Belanger can only be beneficial to him. He has a penchant for putting on a show, that X-factor you need to become a star, and that’s what we believe he’s capable of turning into,” said Baxter.

Almost 600 miles away in New Albany, Indiana, welterweight contender Dusty Hernandez Harrison got back to work with a first round knockout over journeyman Bruce Rumbolz. Harrison showed his power fighting above the welterweight limit in this tune-up bout, dropping Rumbolz with the first significant shot he threw, a hard left hook upstairs, which ended the fight at 1:46 of the round.

“The welterweight division is as hot as ever, it’s filled with pay-per-view attractions, and we believe Dusty is dangerous to any of those top names when he’s back in top form,” said Baxter. “With his fanbase in D.C. and his skill level, he very well could be our company’s first world champion.”

TORONTO, ON—Lee Baxter Promotions is excited to announce the signing of one of Canada’s top boxing stars, welterweight contender Custio Clayton.

Clayton (15-0, 10 knockouts), a 2012 Olympian and six-time national champion, has been knocking on the door of world title contention, fast-tracking through the 147-pound ranks in just over four years as a professional.

The Dartmouth native, who is trained and managed by Eric Belanger, will now have a chance to showcase his skills in the burgeoning boxing hotbed of Toronto, the home base of Lee Baxter Promotions.

“I’m just really excited to get back in the ring. Especially in Toronto, where I can show a new market what I’m all about,” said Clayton, who has relocated to Ottawa, Ontario.

The addition of Clayton bolsters a growing list of potential world title contenders on Baxter’s roster, including Samuel Vargas, Stanyslav Skorokhod, Dusty Harrison and Patrice Volny.

“I’m extremely excited to have Custio on our team. He is the best pure boxing talent in all of Canada, and even though he’s only 15 fights into his pro career, he’s not a fighter who needs coddling or more seasoning,” said Baxter. “We believe he is a fight or two away from a big fight, a world title fight, and we firmly believe he can bring a title home to Canada.”

Clayton was last seen in 2018, when he turned in a comprehensive shutout performance against the unbeaten Stephen Danyo.

“I never stopped training. We have a fresh team and we’re all really hungry to work together. I feel Lee is a hungry promoter with a lot of momentum and upswing, and I’m very happy to be joining his team,” said Clayton.

The 31-year old will make his debut under the Lee Baxter Promotions banner on March 29 at the Mattamy Athletic Centre, on the very same plot of land that legends such as Muhammad Ali, Jose Napoles and George Chuvalo have fought. Clayton’s opponent will be named shortly.

“Custio has the potential to become a legend in Canadian boxing circles, and the first of the final steps towards immortality will happen on March 29,” said Baxter. “He has the look and the charisma to resonate with the community the way the Raptors have, and become Toronto’s first boxing superstar. If everything goes to plan, the city will have a new major sports franchise: The Blue Jays, the Raptors, the Maple Leafs, Toronto FC, and Custio Clayton.”