NEW YORK CITY (January 11, 2017) “The Mecca of Boxing”, Madison Square Garden played host today to the Kick-Off Press Conference for the highly anticipated “MIDDLEWEIGHT MADNESS” showdown between Unified Middleweight World Champion (WBC, WBA, IBF, IBO) GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN (36-0, 33 KO’s) and WBA Middleweight Champion and Mandatory Challenger DANIEL “THE MIRACLE MAN” JACOBS (32-1, 29 KO’s) set for Saturday, March 18 in The World’s Most Famous Arena.

The press conference was held in the arena in front of a massive crowd of media and fans. The championship event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Golovkin and Jacobs have an extraordinary, combined 35 consecutive knockouts heading into this highly anticipated battle.

Presented by K2 Promotions, tickets for “MIDDLEWEIGHT MADNESS” priced at $1000, $600, $400, $300, $200 and $100, are now on sale and can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.thegarden.com.

Below are quotes from the participants

GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN
“I’m very excited for this fight, I have a great deal of respect for Danny Jacobs. This is the best place for boxing, Madison Square Garden, The Mecca of Boxing. The best channel for boxing, HBO, the best companies, JORDAN Brand and Tecate.”

“Today I understand, this is huge for me, for us, for everybody. I believe Danny is very ready for this fight, because I have four belts, this is a dream for him. It’s very important for us to prove who is #1 in the middleweight division, not for the future but for right now.”

“Thank you very much to everyone and I welcome you all to Madison Square Garden on March 18th. I promise an amazing show, it’s the biggest step for us.”

DANIEL “THE MIRACLE MAN” JACOBS
“I want to thank so many people who played a part in this, my family, Madison Square Garden for allowing us to have this fight here and HBO along with so many other people who have followed our careers and allow this opportunity to be so big. This is truly one of the biggest fights this year.”

“I’m just excited, I’ve wanted this fight since before the WBA mandated it, I called ‘GGG’ out
right after the (second) Sergio Mora fight and right after that the WBA mandated it.”

“For me it’s the perfect opportunity and the perfect time for this to happen. I’m glad it’s finally happening, in my hometown, pretty sure it’s going to be a sold-out crowd.”

“I look forward to seeing everyone and my fists will do the talking inside that ring. At the end of the day it’s about fight night and as a fighter that’s exactly what we do. Much respect to Team Golovkin but we have an amazing plan and we look forward to executing it.”

ABEL SANCHEZ, Trainer of Golovkin

“First of all to Danny, thank you for being a gentleman and a man of character. Three years ago when he won his title, I remember him saying he wasn’t ready for the elite, he needed more 10-12 round fights and then he would be ready for Gennady.”

“Once the fight was ordered Danny started talking like a champion should. These two fighters enter the ring with better than a 90% KO ratio, it’s fair to say that somebody is going out.”

“Andre and I understand the importance and significance of this fight in the middleweight division and we look forward to matching wits. It’s all about getting the two best fighters in the ring to put on a great show for all of us.”

ANDRE ROZIER, Trainer of Jacobs

“We’ve been told that we were running, that we were afraid, that we didn’t want to fight Gennady, I’m here to tell you that is entirely not true. This young man here, Daniel Jacobs, I call him my son. He has fought the hardest fight he could ever have, in life. Everything after that is a walk in the park because he fears no man.”’

“When he gets in the ring on March 18th, he will show all those who didn’t believe what he’s really about. We going to work hard and train hard, I’m a big fan of Gennady, he a class act, a gentleman but on March 18th I don’t’ know who he is, I don’t want to know who he is because my fighter has to inflict punishment and garner a victory. I won’t like him on March 18th, maybe after the fight I will.”

TOM LOEFFLER, Managing Director of K2 Promotions

“Both of these champions here set the stage for the type of promotion this will be. We have a tremendous media turnout here and we’ve had a great response since we officially announced the fight. We can’t thank everyone enough involved for putting this promotion together.”

“This will be the fifth time Gennady has fought at Madison Square Garden and when you have a champion like Danny Jacobs and all the support that he brings and all that he’s accomplished in his career, it’s a fight that sells itself. Both fighters are great ambassadors for the sport. It’s so rare these days to see the best in the division fighting each other and that’s what the fans respond to.”

“We want to acknowledge the set up here in the arena for this press conference and thank Joel Fisher and everyone on his staff at MSG. Fights like this couldn’t be done without our broadcast partner HBO Pay-Per-View led by Peter Nelson and we thank them for their support. We also want to their Tecate for their support on this promotion.”

“The ticket prices start at $100 and there were 5,000 in that price category when we put tickets on sale. We’ve had a tremendous reaction from the fans as far as ticket purchases. The response to ticket sales is well above our last event here in October 2015 which sold out.”

KEITH CONNOLLY, Team Jacobs

“A fight like this with a champion like Gennady and a champion like Danny, a fight like this can really elevate boxing. This is rare, sometimes you see boxers in the same division, circle each other and avoid each other for years and years or wait until one of the guys gets old, we weren’t looking to do that.”

“I think both guys are in their prime and you’ll see the best of both of them come March 18th. I think whoever comes out on this fight on top will be the superstar in the sport.”

“I think on fight night, people are going to be really surprised, not only do I think Danny wins but I think he’s going to be dominant. I think halfway through the second round people at ringside and Gennady himself will realize he’s in there with a totally different animal, I think he bit off more than he could chew this time. I don’t think people are giving Danny enough credit for what he’s accomplished.”

“With 32 victories and 29 knockouts, Danny’s one of the biggest punches in the middleweight division and with Gennady’s knockouts I don’t see this fight going the distance, it’s a can’t miss fight and I think it’s the biggest fight of the year.”

SOCIAL MEDIA — #GGGJACOBS

Gennady “GGG” Golovkin
@GGGBoxing – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Daniel Jacobs
@DanielJacobsTKO – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

HBO
@HBO, @HBOBoxing – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Madison Square Garden
@TheGarden – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Tom Loeffler (K2 Promotions)
@TomLoeffler1 — Twitter

Roman Gonzalez will defend the WBC Super Flyweight title against Srisaket Sor Rungvisai on March 18th at Madison Square Garden as the co-feature bout on the Gennady Golovkin – Daniel Jacobs Middleweight unification bout, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“Many people consider Sor Rungvisai more dangerous or just as dangerous as Cuadras. This is not an easier fight than a rematch with Cuadras,” Gonzalez U.S. representative Tom Loeffler told ESPN. “Roman and his team decided to fight Srisaket with the winner having to fight Cuadras.”

“He is a very dangerous opponent for Roman and even though many of the U.S. fans might not know him, the boxing people know him,” Loeffler said. “When we have the combination of GGG and Chocolatito in arguably the toughest fights of their career on the same card, that’s the type of value we want to provide for the fans that come to Madison Square Garden or the fans who buy the card on HBO PPV.”

“This will be their fifth appearance on the same broadcast together. It’s a great combination when you have the two best pound-for-pound fighters in the world on the same show,” Loeffler said. “The fans can see the talent level these guys have. All four of these fighters are extremely talented. That’s a winning combination for the fans.”

NEW YORK CITY (December 28, 2016) Tickets are moving very fast for the World Middleweight Championship on Saturday, March 18, 2017, at Madison Square Garden between Unified Middleweight World Champion (WBC, WBA, IBF, IBO), GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN, (36-0, 33 KO’s) and WBA Middleweight Champion and Mandatory Challenger, Brooklyn’s DANIEL “THE MIRACLE MAN” JACOBS, (32-1, 29 KO’s).

“We’re very happy with the results from a very strong pre-sale and the first days of sales particularly given that it was over the Christmas holiday weekend,” said Tom Loeffler, Managing Director of K2 Promotions. “We’re ahead of our pace from the last time Gennady sold-out Madison Square Garden in October 2015 especially with the strong added interest we’ve seen with Danny Jacobs being from Brooklyn. We look forward to another memorable evening inside the ‘Mecca of Boxing’ where the two best middleweights will fight each other in front of a capacity crowd.”

Presented by K2 Promotions, tickets for “MIDDLEWEIGHT MADNESS” priced at $1000, $600, $400, $300, $200 and $100, are now on sale and can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.thegarden.com.

The championship event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Golovkin and Jacobs have an extraordinary, combined 35 consecutive knockouts heading into this highly anticipated battle.

SOCIAL MEDIA — #GGGJACOBS

Gennady “GGG” Golovkin
@GGGBoxing – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Daniel Jacobs
@DanielJacobsTKO – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

HBO
@HBO, @HBOBoxing – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Madison Square Garden
@TheGarden – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Tom Loeffler (K2 Promotions)
@TomLoeffler1 — Twitter

NEW YORK CITY (December 20, 2016) “The Mecca of Boxing” and The World’s Most Famous Arena, Madison Square Garden will host Unified Middleweight World Champion, GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN, (36-0, 33 KO’s) as he defends his titles (WBC, WBA, IBF, IBO) against WBA Middleweight Champion and Mandatory Challenger, Brooklyn’s DANIEL “THE MIRACLE MAN” JACOBS, (32-1, 29 KO’s) on Saturday, March 18, 2017. The championship event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Golovkin and Jacobs have an extraordinary, combined 35 consecutive knockouts heading into this highly anticipated battle.
Presented by K2 Promotions, tickets for “MIDDLEWEIGHT MADNESS” priced at $1000, $600, $400, $300, $200 and $100, will go on sale Christmas Eve, This Saturday, December 24th at 12:00 p.m. ET and can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.thegarden.com.

“I love fighting at Madison Square Garden, it feels like my second home”, said Golovkin. “Danny is a great fighter, one of the best middleweights and a big test for me. I look forward to another ‘Big Drama Show’ in New York City.”

Stated Jacobs, “I’m excited about facing Gennady and proving I’m the best middleweight in the world. On March 18th I’m bringing all the belts back to Brooklyn with me.”

“We’re very excited to promote this outstanding matchup of the two best middleweights in the world, Gennady Golovkin and Danny Jacobs,” said Tom Loeffler of K2 Promotions. “It doesn’t get any better than this, the World Middleweight Championship at The Mecca of Boxing, it’s truly going to be a memorable evening.”

“With Gennady’s previous fight at Madison Square Garden last October against David Lemieux selling out and Danny’s huge Brooklyn fan base, we anticipate tickets will move very quickly.”

“March 18th is a big night for the boxing world,” said Keith Connolly of Team Jacobs. “You have the two best middleweights in the world going head to head for the majority of the belts. What else could anyone ask for. This is a fight the boxing fans deserve.”

“We want to thank Al Haymon for all his tireless work over the last nine years helping put Danny into this position to have an opportunity to beat Gennady Golovkin, one of the best fighters in the world. Come March 18th Danny will come out on top and he will be taking all the belts back to Brooklyn, you can count on that”
Since his first fight in the United States and on HBO in September 2012, Golovkin has become one of the most talked about fighters in the world. In his last three fights, Golovkin has sold out Madison Square Garden, The Fabulous Forum in Los Angeles and The O2 in London. The battle with Jacobs will be the fifth time Golovkin has fought at Madison Square Garden.

In his last fight, on September 10, 2016 in front of over 19,000 fans at The 02, Golovkin stopped Undefeated Welterweight World Champion Kell Brook in the fifth round, his 23rd consecutive knockout and his 17th straight middleweight world title defense.

Born and raised in the boxing hotbed of Brownsville, New York which has produced many legendary world champions including Mike Tyson and Riddock Bowe, the heavy handed Jacobs has scored numerous highlight reel knockouts over his nine years as a professional.

In the most impressive fight of his career on December 5, 2015, Jacobs spectacularly knocked out longtime rival and then undefeated former middleweight champion Peter Quillin in the first round in Brooklyn, New York.

Sandwiched around the Quillin stoppage are two impressive knockouts of former world champion Sergio Mora, the first coming on August 1, 2015 in the second round in Brooklyn, New York. Most recently, Jacobs knocked out Mora in the seventh round on September 9, 2016 in Reading, PA.

One of the biggest punchers in the sport of boxing, Jacobs has won his last 12 fights, all by stoppage.

SOCIAL MEDIA — #GGGJACOBS

Gennady “GGG” Golovkin

@GGGBoxing – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Daniel Jacobs

@DanielJacobsTKO – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

HBO

@HBO, @HBOBoxing – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Madison Square Garden

@TheGarden – Twitter, Facebook, Instagram

Tom Loeffler (K2 Promotions)

@TomLoeffler1 — Twitter

BROOKLYN (Dec. 19, 2016) – Middleweight champion and Brooklyn native Daniel “Miracle Man” Jacobs will wear BROOKLYN BOXING branded merchandise in the ring when he fights against unified middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin on March 18.

Jacobs, who in June was named the face of BROOKLYN BOXING, the flourishing boxing platform for Barclays Center, will train and compete in branded gloves, trunks, shoes and robes and will wear other apparel during fight week events and in the post-fight press conference.

“I’m excited to represent BROOKLYN BOXING and the 2.6 million people in my home borough,” said Jacobs, who grew up in Brownsville. “My story is about never giving up and that’s the spirit and perseverance I’ll be bringing into the ring against Golovkin on March 18. I will make Brooklyn proud.”

In 2011, Jacobs was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a life-threatening form of bone cancer. After an arduous battle, radiation treatments and surgery, Jacobs returned to the ring at Barclays Center where he went on to win his WBA world middleweight title in August 2014, a belt he still holds.

“We couldn’t be more proud to have Daniel representing BROOKLYN BOXING,” said Brett Yormark, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment. “Daniel’s determination and courage capture the spirit of the borough and we are confident that he will return to Barclays Center for his next fight with all of Golovkin’s world middleweight championship belts.”

Launched earlier this year, the BROOKLYN BOXING merchandise line features a unique brand of active wear, lifestyle apparel, accessories for men and women, fighters and fans alike.

The assortment includes in-ring essentials like BROOKLYN BOXING training gear, gloves and corner buckets, as well as street wear such as hats, hoodies, shirts, and socks. Fans can purchase their own apparel at BrooklynBoxingShop.com.

BROOKLYN BOXING is making an annual donation to Jacobs’ Get In The Ring Foundation, through which he advocates for children struggling with cancer, childhood obesity, and bullying.

BROOKLYN SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment (BSE) develops and operates state-of-the-art venues and manages premier sports franchises, delivering dynamic content and experiences for audiences. BSE oversees programming, marketing, sales, and operations for Barclays Center and Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum Presented by New York Community Bank, and manages and controls the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets and its Development League team, the Long Island Nets, as well as the business operations of the NHL’s New York Islanders.

Barclays Center, which opened on September 28, 2012, offers 17,732 seats for basketball, 15,795 for hockey, and up to 19,000 seats for concerts, and has 101 luxury suites, four bars/lounges, four clubs, and 40/40 CLUB & Restaurant by American Express.

The New Coliseum Presented by NYCB, scheduled to reopen April 5, 2017 after extensive renovation, will offer 13,000 seats for hockey, 13,500 for basketball, and 14,500 for concert configurations, with the ability to flex up. The bowl will have a theater seating option for 4,000 guests.

With a focus on emerging businesses, BSE identifies and creates alliances, strategic partners and other business opportunities to ensure the success of its assets. For additional information, please visit Brooklynse.com.

Middleweight champions Gennady Golovkin and Danny Jacobs will meet on March at 18th at Madison Square Garden and televised on HBO Pay Per View, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“It’s big news for me. I am very excited,” Golovkin said. “I think it’s a very big fight and great fight for you guys to watch. Danny is an amazing fighter. He is a tough opponent and No. 2 in the middleweight division. He is my toughest opponent. Hopefully, I fight three times next year. There are big plans for 2017 (but) right now I am focused on Jacobs and I am here to fight.

“I’m excited about facing GGG and proving I’m the best middleweight in the world,” Jacobs said in a statement to ESPN. “On March 18 I’m bringing all the belts back to Brooklyn with me.”

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, a purse bid has been ordered for the WBA Middleweight title bout that would pit Gennady Golovkin and Daniel Jacobs.

The bid would be on December 19th.

“Still planning to have a deal done with Jacobs before the bid deadline,”said Golovkin promoter Tom Loeffler, who was traveling in Germany, told ESPN by email after the purse bid order was announced.

A proposed fight between middleweight champions Gennady Golovkin and Daniel Jacobs has been pushed back to 3027 according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“Once the WBA made their ruling to uphold their standard split, it became just a matter of still talking to Al and trying to finalize a deal, but it’s just too late now for the fight to be on Dec. 10,” Golovkin promoter Tom Loeffler said. “We had Madison Square Garden on hold, and they’ve been a good partner to us, so I don’t like having to leave them with an open Saturday night. HBO also was ready to go, but we are going to push it back into early 2017.”

“As soon as we can get the deal agreed to we’ll figure out a date and location,” he said. “But first we have to make the fight. Optimally, it will stay at Madison Square Garden. Our goal is to not go to a purse bid because a promotion is more effective when both sides are happy with the deal.”

“By the time contracts are signed and fighters are in training camp, it just wasn’t realistic to keep the December date, unfortunately,” Loeffler said. “If we had the contracts signed today, OK, maybe we could do it. But we’re not there yet. The contract isn’t signed and there’s no telling when it would be signed.”

“It’s not by our choice,” Loeffler said.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, plans are in motion for Middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin to fight WBA champion Daniel Jacobs on December 10th at Madison Square Garden.

The fight became a possible reality after Canelo Alvarez fractured his hand and forcing him off of the December date.

“That was Canelo’s date and we’re shooting for that date now for GGG,” Golovkin promoter Tom Loeffler of K2 Promotions told ESPN.com on Thursday night.

“Hopefully, we can work out the details soon for Jacobs,” Loeffler said.

After their knockout wins this past weekend, the WBA has ordered a bout between champions Gennady Golovkin and Daniel Jacobs, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“The 30-day negotiations period has started,” WBA president Gilberto Mendoza Jr. said. “They have 120 days to do the fight.”

“Daniel Jacobs, he is very good fighter. Huge fight, probably in New York,” Golovkin told ESPN.com in his dressing room after stopping Brook. “Absolutely. I am open for everybody. I think right now this is best fight for us.”

READING, PA. (September 8, 2016) – Middleweight world champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs and former champion Sergio “The Latin Snake” Mora went face-to-face at the final press conference Wednesday before their world championship rematch that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on Spike Friday, September 9 from Santander Arena in Reading, Pa.

Also in attendance at Wednesday’s event were undefeated lightweights Robert Easter and Richard Commey, who fight for a vacant world title Friday night on Spike. Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT and features local contender Travis “My Time” Kauffman in a 10-round heavyweight bout.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, start at $20 and are on sale now via Ticketmaster.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

DANIEL JACOBS

“It’s an honor to be up here as the main event with these young fighters and future champions. I’m excited to be back in the ring. It’s been too long but I’ve been training hard and I feel great.

“I’m going to do what I do best. People talk about my power, but I get my skills from the amateur system and from proving that I have the goods. I have the power in addition to the skill set. I’m planning on proving that Friday night.

“I’ll be ready every round to give it my best and he better come in ready to fight. I’m excited to be here and display my skills in a new place.

“The fans are looking forward to a good fight so I hope Sergio is ready to make this an exciting battle. I’m going to show everybody my full arsenal.”

SERGIO MORA

“Our last fight was on the way to being a ‘Fight of the Year,’ but I busted my ankle in the second round and I couldn’t continue. I’ve been waiting 13 months for this opportunity and I’m completely ready. This has been a fantastic training camp.

“It’s time for business. People don’t know what’s going to happen. He has big power and I have a lot of experience and tricks up my sleeve. The later the fight goes, the better off for me.

“I’m ready for any way this fight can go. I’m excited about this fight and the fans should be excited about this fight. We’re proud fighters and I can’t wait to get in there.”

ROBERT EASTER

“This is a big opportunity and something I’ve wanted for my whole life. Ever since I was nine-years-old. All the hard work I’ve put in since I was a kid, everyone will see. I will put on a great performance

“We already were working hard before we knew we had this title shot. Someone has to pay for the work I’ve been putting in for 16 years in this business. On Friday night it will be another victory and another man down.”

RICHARD COMMEY

“I’m very happy to be here and I’m thankful for this opportunity. When I first started boxing this is what I hoped for.

“This is all that I have had on my mind. This is what has motivated me for many years.

“Come Friday night I’m going to be ready to fight and I’m going to be a world champion.”

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @DanielJacobsTKO, @TheLatinSnake_, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports @KingsBoxing_ and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions. PBC on Spike is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

DANIEL JACOBS vs. SERGIO MORA FIGHT WEEK MEDIA SCHEDULE
*All Times Are Eastern*

Thursday, September 8

6:00 p.m. OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN
Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Reading –
Callowhill Ballroom
701 Penn St.; Reading, PA 19601
5:30 p.m. – Media Arrival
6:00 p.m. – Fighters to scales

Friday, September 9

6:00 p.m. SANTANDER ARENA DOORS OPEN & FIRST BOUT
Location: 700 Penn Street; Reading, PA 19601

9:00 p.m. SPIKE BROADCAST BEGINS

CREDENTIAL DISTRIBUTION
Fight night credentials can be picked up from the box office beginning at 5:30 p.m. Proper personal photo ID (Driver’s license or passport) is required for credential pick-up.
# # #
For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @DanielJacobsTKO, @TheLatinSnake_, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports @KingsBoxing_ and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions. PBC on Spike is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Marc Abrams
Okay. Welcome to the Daniel Jacobs/Sergio Mora conference call. The rematch will take place Friday night, September 9th, at the Santander Arena in Reading, Pennsylvania, and live on Spike TV. It’s a championship double header, a great show that will also feature the IBF lightweight championship of the world between undefeated Robert Easter and undefeated Richard Commey of Accra, Ghana. The show is promoted by Kings Boxing. And to make some opening statements, the President of Kings Boxing Mr. Marshall Kauffman. Marshall?

Marshall Kauffman
Hello, everybody. It’s a pleasure to be able to host such an exciting fight come September 9th. I’m looking forward to fireworks between both these–with both of these bouts. You have–with Richard Commey and Robert Easter, Jr., and of course, Daniel Jacobs and Sergio Mora, it’s going to be an exciting night. I’m really looking forward to it. And the [unintelligible] town of Reading as well is really excited about such a big event coming to our town.

Abrams
Well, we’ll start with Robert Easter–would like to make an opening comment.

Robert Easter
Yeah, I’ll all very excited to come to Reading, PA, and fight for the IBF world title. Hopefully, Richard Commey will bring his A game to the table because I’m definitely bringing my A-plus game to the table.

Abrams
And, Richard, would you like to make an opening statement?

Richard Commey
Oh, yeah, I’m very excited to have this opportunity to fight for the IBF lightweight world title. I’ve worked so hard to get this opportunity. And I know Robert Easter, Jr., has also. So, it’s going to be a great fight.

Q
Robert, basically, he hasn’t faced anyone with your height, reach, power, and speed. Is that accurate? Can you give an assessment of your thoughts on that?

Easter
Yes, no, he hasn’t faced anyone like me and my agility, my power, my length, my reach. He hasn’t faced a guy like me. So, that’s where I come in and take over this fight.

Q
On the other hand, who would you say that you have faced that is either comparable or better than him in ways that you think he need–he would need to be able to compete against you?

Easter
It was–Mendez, he was a speedy, speedy guy, fast, and could move a lot. But, what I’m hearing, Commey brings pressure I guess. That’s probably the only thing Mendez didn’t have. He came–he definitely came to fight, though, but he was a speedy guy, a slick guy, to move his hands.

Q
I guess the last question, is there anything that is different or unique about Richard that you haven’t seen in an actual fight? I know you’ve been in sparring with guys like [Lamont Peterson] and Anthony Peterson, Adrian Broner, guys like that. But, in an actual fight, is there anything about him that you respect to the level that you’re really going to have to be on your P’s and Q’s about?

Easter
Every opponent you step in the ring with you have to respect. But, it’s nothing unique I see coming from him. It’s nothing I haven’t seen or faced. So, like I said, this should be a walk in the park for me, and I say that with confidence.

Q
Okay. Richard, I wonder what tradition you know when you talk about Azumah Nelson Have you talked to any of those guys or heard from any of those guys ?

Commey
Yes. And I’m going to use the advice Azumah gave me over the last few weeks here in Ghana.

Q
Richard, how does Robert stack up to left hander went the distance with both those guys. Have you seen anything like what you’re going to see out of Robert in terms of reach and–?

Commey
I’ve inspired a lot of people with a lot of heart. I need this opportunity. His height really won’t matter. I’m coming there to win and that’s what I’m coming to do.

Q
The last question, what do you think you’ve–that he hasn’t fought anyone like? What do you think is unique about you that he hasn’t seen before?

Commey
Well, I’m a tall guy. And no matter what he does, I can win. I’m strong. And I can take punches and I can punch as well. I can do all that. If he can’t–he will lose. I respect the height and his reach and his skills as a boxer.

Q
I’ll start with you, Easter. Welcome to the fight, and good luck to you. You mentioned that you’re ready, and Commey has not fought anybody of your caliber. But, if you look at both records, you guys are both undefeated with a nice double figure of knockouts. And he’s already a champion is his country and all that. Now, and you are an ex-Olympian. Are you telling me, or as I understand, that you’re minimizing what he has, taking in consideration that he is undefeated, just like you, and somebody’s always got to go? So, what do you–how do you assess that?

Easter
Seeing the few rounds I did watch is the skills, and I wouldn’t say they were that good, but he–like I said, he’s just very strong. They say he’s strong. But, you’re only strong to somebody you can hit.

When you got to–boxing out there, like me, I’m using my rank, my length, and what I’m throwing [can be] hard as well, how you going to be able to get past that? So, like I said, the skills are not much there. But, I don’t like to get hit that much. I won’t get hit that much. So, I’m going to take all that away, and then whatever he’s bringing and adjust to have him adjust to me. Once I get him in my game plan, the fight is going to go my way the whole few rounds it’s going to last.

Q
Do you feel that your Olympic experience is an advantage over him because, after all, when you get to the high heights of Olympic experience and international amateur fighting, you’re almost like a pro? It’s almost like stepping into the living room when you turn pro. So, that has–you have an edge on that?

Easter
I wouldn’t pretty much focus on the amateur side because the transition from the amateur to pro is way different. You know patience.So, I’ll transition pretty quickly like Lamont Peterson, Anthony Peterson, Adrien Broner, guys like that..

Q
Are you hoping to–just to name two guys to follow the tradition of African champions, like Ike Quartey and the great Azumah Nelson, to bring another title back to Africa? Is this what–not only to win, of course, but is–this is your direction, your crusade, when you were saying that, “Finally, I got a chance at a world title,” and your heart of hearts, this is what you want to do, to bring another title to Africa?

Commey
Yes, that’s exactly what I want to do. Like you said, the likes of Ike Quartey, Azumah Nelson, to bring a championship back to my country.

Q
Knowing that this is for the vacant IBF world title, of course, what have you–without giving out trade secrets, what have you done in camp to–different or with a high acceleration to make sure that your hand is raised in victory over Easter?

Commey
Well, of course, I spar a lot of big guys like Joshua Clottey, and I have the kind of power to excel in the gym and on fight night. I want to follow the tradition of Ghanaian boxing. So, I’m coming there to make sure, once I get my game plan underway, then I’ll victorious.

Q
Do you run at all the risk of being a little overconfident against another opponent who is also undefeated and has traveled all over, fought a lot of different type of fighters in all different countries and certainly has no fear of coming here? Are you a little overconfident in those remarks?

Easter
No, not at all. Not at all. I believe in my skill. And I know what I’ll come and do, just like my last fight and fight before that and a few fights before that. Once I got my game plan, when I come in the ring, I know how to make the fighter try to adjust to me. Once I get a fighter try and adjust to me, then the fight is already won.

The skills, you can see the skills, mine and his. He’s a straight coming-forth fighter, try to hard punch and all that. But, when got boxing and you can punch as well and you can move, don’t matter. It speaks for itself.

Q
So, how surprised were you that Barthelemy did give up the title and that you ended up getting this title shot? Seems to me probably about maybe around a year or so or at least in the IBF 9 or 10 months sooner than maybe you had expected.

Easter
I knew after the Mendez fight I was going to have a big fight coming up. So, either way, I was going to train like it was a championship fight, like I do always. So, it is surprising that it came up this soon.

Q
Do you think, when you face him, you’re going to have to use your height and length and box him because you mentioned how aggressive he is, or is this going to be similar to Argenis Mendez, where you can drop that big shot at any moment and knock the guy out?

Easter
Yeah, I’m going to and I will have to box. That’s the plan for every opponent I fight. I box and use my length. So, as long as I do that and see a weakness–wherever I see a weakness, that’s when I go for it.

Q
I count six different countries that you’ve fought in between your home country, United States, throughout Europe. Can you talk about what that experience has done in terms of giving you confidence to come again to the United States and take on an American fighter in a pretty significant fight for a world title?

Commey
Like you said, I’ve been fighting all over the world. I’m very comfortable fighting in the U.S. I don’t really think about where I’m going to fight, just do my best, and whatever happens, I take it because, as a boxer, I need to prepare. I need to be ready to go wherever to fight. I’m ready to go anywhere to fight to so wherever I go as a boxer. So, I’m all good

Q
Richard, can you just give me your opinion about the kind of fighter and what you think about the style of Robert Easter, if you’ve seen him fight?

Commey
What I’ve seen of him, I know he’s a great boxer, a skilled boxer, and he tries to move a lot. But, likewise, I can box. I can come forward. So, on the night of the fight, definitely, I know what I’m going to do.

Q
Did you have a preference of fighting Barthelemy, who was the reigning champion, or taking on another undefeated fighter for the vacant title, or did it not make a difference to you?

Commey
Well, at the end of the day, that’s you want. Once you got a chance to fight for it, whatever comes, it doesn’t really matter who you’re supposed to fight. It’s the title I want. So, for me, I don’t really feel much disappointed. I’m there to fight for the title. That’s what I want. So, I’m not disappointed. It’s all good as I’m really looking forward for the title. And once I’m fighting for the title, I don’t mind.

Abrams
Okay. We’re going to wrap up this part of the call. I know we’ve got–Sergio is on the line. And I think Daniel will be on the line in a second. Just a quick final comment from both, we’ll start with Robert.

Easter
Just be ready September 9th. I’ll come bring a lot of fireworks and a lot of action and another short bout, September 9th, and will be the IBF champion.

Commey
Come on the 9th of September. I’m coming to put my life on the line. And I’m going to be the world champion, IBF lightweight world champion.

Abrams
Thank you, guys. We’ll see you in Reading September 9th. And, Danielle, I think we’re ready now with the–I believe Sergio is on the line. I know Daniel going to be in, in a second. I guess, while we wait for Daniel, Marshall, I don’t know if you want to introduce Sergio?

Kauffman
Sergio Mora, a very exciting fighter. His last fight was fireworks. And I’m looking forward to fireworks once again. Danny Jacobs dropped him first, and Sergio came back and took advantage of Danny’s mistakes. And then the third knockdown was something that’s still a question mark, whether it was from a knockdown or a twisted ankle. So, there are question marks–there are questions that are left to be spoken for. And I believe Sergio is in shape. And we’ll see, come September 9th. How about it, Sergio?

Sergio Mora
It was no knockdown. I always–I’m the one getting punched, by the way. So, I didn’t feel the punch, and it was definitely just me twisting my ankle. It was Jacobs pushing me down as well. Yeah, the referee kept warning Jacobs also that he was pushing me down with his elbow. I normally go down low like that. So, it’s not the first time it happened. So, it’s a mix of a lot of things. But, it wasn’t a punch to knock me down. It was all my ankle. And if was a punch, then why didn’t I stay down? I was up at the count of two or three on one foot. So, it definitely wasn’t a punch.

Abrams
And I believe the WBA middleweight champion Daniel Jacob on the line. Daniel, you want opening statements and maybe a response to that?

Daniel Jacobs
Well, I came in briefly. And from what I hear, he’s saying that that last shot wasn’t a punch that put him down. I don’t know what my eyes were seeing, or I don’t know what my fists felt, but in my opinion, and I think, if you clearly go to the video, the replay, it was a punch that put him down. It was the uppercut that started–which had him back–withdraw and back up. And then it was the overhand right that put him down. So–.

Mora
The overhand right grazed the back of my head. Yeah, the overhand right grazed the back of my head, but my ankle was already twisted. It was a tricky shot.

Jacobs
It could be a graze. It could be whatever you want to say it could be, but it put you down. Listen, let me give my opening statement, please. I just got on the line.

Mora
But, it didn’t keep me down. If I was hurt, –I wouldn’t have gotten up.

Jacobs
Okay. Allow me to have my opening statement, Sergio, please. I just got on the line, brother. Show some respect. I just got on the line. So, my opening statement, ladies and gentlemen, it is the honor to be back into the ring. I’ve been out for quite some time. The reason we’ve actually been out for so long was because we were trying to get a better opportunity at fighting B.J. Saunders. Obviously, that fight took a little longer than anticipated. And this is the reason why this fight is happening. It isn’t because I’ve been avoiding Sergio Mora. I just understand that this fight for my career at this particular point isn’t really going to do anything for me. It’s more going to do anything–more for Sergio than it would do for me. But, me and him have the same management in Al Haymon. So, I can understand why this fight is being made.

But, the reasons why he’s saying this fight is being made as far as me ducking him and not wanting to fight him, I mean, that’s absurd. That’s absurd. But, I’m just excited nevertheless to be back into the ring. It’s a good time for me to be able to get back in there and have some fun again. I look forward to a very good matchup again I hope. But, one question that I do have for Sergio is, in previous interviews, he said that he was going to have a more exciting style and he was tired of being the born fighter he used to be that wasn’t appealing to fans, and he wasn’t going to do much running, this other stuff, stuff that he’s been getting criticized before, he wasn’t going to do that. And now that he says he’s felt the power of myself, he says he’s going to completely switch the game plan. So, my question is, what–why the sudden change? I mean, what’s the difference now? Why are you not going to be more exciting and more appealing now, like you said before?

Mora
I said I was going to be exciting and more aggressive. I didn’t say I was going to be stupid.

Jacobs
Oh, yeah, that is stupid to come and–that will be stupid to come and actually go toe to toe and bang with me. You’re absolutely right. So it’ll be interesting to see the game plan that you have for this coming fight because I just hope it’s not a stinker, man. You’re getting a second opportunity at a world–at my world title shot. Please let’s not make it a snoozer. It’s bad enough we’re both receiving a lot of criticism for this fight, but dude, please let’s just make it exciting.

Mora
Hey, listen, I’m the king of criticism. If you can’t take criticism, you don’t belong to be a champion. You don’t belong in the top like that. That’s part of being a world champion is taking all the bullshit from critics and media and everyone else. And if you’re thin-skinned, then you’re not going to hang very much as the world champion.

Jacobs
Okay. Yes, sir. Ready for some questions.

Q
Sergio, after that first fight, you said that you felt that, because it was so early in the fight, it was going to be called-be a no contest. Turns out it ultimately ended up being a loss on your record. Do you feel like the fact that it’s been so–that the fight ended in that way, do you feel like an extra layer of motivation to try to win this second fight?

Mora
No, that blemish on my career is–it’s already there. I tried to contest it with the New York Commission. But, it got me nowhere. The New York Commission is a mess as we’re all finding out when it comes to the fights and boxing and MMA and everything else. So, I went that route. It didn’t go anywhere. So, I’m going to have that TKO on my record for the rest of my career and the rest of my life. And it’s sad because I don’t want it to be on a technicality. So, does it irk me? Absolutely. But, am I past it? Yes. I just want an opportunity to clear whatever happened. Jacobs said that he dropped me twice. I only fell once. I dropped him once. Round of the year, Sports Illustrated. Second round, I feel I was in control and winning. With 5 or 10 seconds left, the injury happens, and I bust my ankle. So, there’s a lot of unanswered questions. And for whatever reason this fight is happening again, I’m going to–I’m fully prepared for whatever comes. And I just want to–I just want my opportunity. And I’m thankful that I got it.

Q
Daniel, in that–in the first round, Sergio did knock you down. You said after the fight ended that you were a little bit careless in that first round. Are you taking a more conservative approach, or are you being a little more careful knowing that Sergio has the capabilities of knocking you down?

Jacobs
Listen, there’s always opportunities to learn and grow in the sport of boxing. Even with a light-punching guy like Sergio Mora, I learned a valuable lesson that, after I knocked him down and I was going in for the kill, that you still have to be defensive minded, even when you have a guy hurt because I was on the verge of stopping this man. There’s no way around that. I was definitely on the verge of stopping him. But, in my mind, I got a little careless. And the way I had my feet spread, I mean, I just got caught with a real clean shot. It’s nothing I can take away from him. He definitely earned that. But, it was a valuable lesson to me and a lesson that I’m sure I won’t make again.

Q
Sergio, how was the rehab in trying to get back and healthy? Was there anything that, during that time, you looked at yourself as a fighter and wanted to improve upon for this rematch?

Mora
No, not as a fighter. The only thing I had in mind was to heal up 100 percent. I did everything in my power, in my capability to heal up properly. I did all the–I got the best treatment. I tried to go with the best physical therapist and with ice and do all the remedies, all the Mexican remedies that my mom would tell me to do. And I tried to do everything possible to do it. So, finally, I–after 6 to 7 months, I started–little by little started putting pressure on it. And I started feeling good and taking it–taking Aleve. And sometimes, I have to take cortisone shots in order for me to go harder and faster. So, I just did everything in my ability, plus prayer. And thank God I’m back.

Q
I don’t know who’s best fit to answer this question, but is there a rubber match clause in the event that Sergio pulls the upset?

Mora
I’m the king of rematches. So, I’ll answer that. I’ve had four rematches. This is going to be my fifth. And I’ve never had a rubber match. I probably deserved a rubber match with Brian Vera. But, Texas is just too big and strong for me to beat. So, rubber matches, I don’t know. We’ll see. I got to get the win first.

Q
Are you confident, Sergio, in your ability to plant on your ankle?

Mora
Absolutely. Now, I am. There were times within the year that I’ve been off that I questioned it. And I’m 35 years old now. So, everything heals up slower. I can’t fool myself. So, sometimes, I question it. But, now, I’m not anymore. I did everything. I put all the pressure, sprinting uphill, sprinting downhill, stopping on a dime, pivoting, twisting. And I feel an ache here and there. But, as far as me doing, I’ve done it. So, mentally, I’m there. I’m ready.

Q
Daniel, do you feel this fight is a backwards step?

Jacobs
I absolutely do. I mean, I think it’s just–to me, this is kind of like a just-stay-busy fight because we weren’t able to get the fight that we actually wanted, for whatever reason. But, to me, I don’t think this does anything for my career. Like I said before, we’ve always wanted to move up to bigger and better opposition each time out. This is kind of a step back. And I understand that it left a bitter taste in certain people’s mouths because of the way Sergio Mora lost. But, in my opinion, he was on the verge anyway. So, that’s how I look at it. But, this is for me an opportunity to kind of quiet the critics and just make the final statement once and for all that I am the better fighter, better boxer.

Hell, I’m better in general inside that square ring. Sergio Mora has nothing in there to stop me, especially come September 9th. I’m in the best shape that I’ve ever been in my life. And he said before that I don’t like to go 12 rounds. I mean, I’ve never said that. I mean, just because I’ve knocked guys out doesn’t mean I don’t like to go 12 rounds. With the Caleb Truax fight, I wanted to go 12 rounds, and I did, and then I stopped him in the 12th round. So, it’s not like I’d just like to go out there and have this false identity like I’m this super big knockout artist. I’m a superb boxer. I learned the fundamentals from the amateur USA boxing. I’ve gone internationally and performed on an international level. I know how to box. Sergio Mora is extremely awkward. That’s what allowed him to get where he is now. Take nothing away from him being a world champion. Yeah, I have to give him credit for that. But, as a–.

Mora
About time you give me some credit. And guess what? I–and hey, listen, man. Sorry to interrupt you, but that’s the first time you’ve ever given me credit.

Jacobs
Oh, I’m sorry. I thought I was answering the question. Okay. I’m going to let you go ahead.

Mora
That’s the first time you’ve ever given me credit, man. Thank you very much. Thank you, Danny. Thank you.

Jacobs
Oh, okay. You’re very welcome. But, as I was saying, yes, this is definitely a setback.

Q
It didn’t take long for you to get acquainted the first time around. What are your mindsets? Are you looking to pick up where you left off, or you taking a completely different approach this time around?

Mora
I’m still in shock that he gave me credit. Look, the first time around, he downplayed and downgraded me as a former world champion. And he said that he wanted to move onto bigger and better things. I just want to touch on something. I’m the best name on Daniel Jacobs–no, let me take that back. I’m the most accomplished name on Daniel Jacobs’s record.

So, how is he down–how is he going backwards? How is he regressing by fighting me? I’m the best–I’m the most accomplished on his resume. He’s not even top three on mine. I’ve got hall of famers on my resume. I had to beat a world champion, a five-time world champion to become champion. He had to beat a guy Jarrod Fletcher Jacob–I don’t even know what the hell his name is, Fletcher Jones or whatever it is. So, the bottom line is you’ve got to give me my credit, man. So, thank you for giving me that credit. Now, what was your question, again? I’m sorry.

Q
Are you looking to pick up where you left off, or are you coming in with a totally different mindset?

Mora
Well, look, I know that I got dropped. I’ve been dropped before. I can get up, and I’m pretty resilient that way. Jacobs took a little longer to get the cobwebs off. So, he–now, he knows that I can punch. I don’t think he’s going to come in as aggressive as he was the first time. If he does, maybe we’ll leave off. That’s going to be up to the champ. The champ wants to start if off, I’m good. If not, if I see him–fighting behind a jab, then I’m going to have to go and put the pressure on a little bit.

Q
And, Daniel?

Jacobs
So, I just–I totally feel like he’s just full of it right now. I don’t think he’s going to come forward. He’s even said it in the interview. Now, he understands and he knows how much power I possess. He’s going to change the game plan. And he’s going to try to take me into what he quotes are deep waters. So, he’s going to try to take me in later rounds, which in my opinion, he has to box, and he has to be on the back foot to do so.

So, in my opinion, I think he’s going to try to make it a snoozer. He’s not going to try to make it exciting and come forward. And it’s just my–it’s just up to me to make it an exciting. And I’m going to do what I’ve always done. I’m going to come forward, and I’m going to adjust if I need to make adjustments. And that’s simple. I want to hurt this man. There’s no way around it. I want him to feel and eat his words, clearly. So, I’m going to come in there, and I’m going to try and punch you in your face. It’s plain and simple, Sergio. That’s my game approach. But, if you want to box–.

Mora
That’s all good. You try to reach my–.

Jacobs
If you want to go on the back foot–.

Mora
I’m going to be touching that body.

Jacobs
Hold on, sir. Hold on, baby. Hold on, baby. I’ll let you answer your question. Hold on now. Be respectful. If you wanted to be on the back foot, that’s the game that I can play, too. I have an extreme amateur and professional boxing resume, brother. Like, we can do this. But, the game plan for me, to answer your question, is to go in there and hurt this man, period.

Q
Sergio, given the fact that Danny has said that this is a backwards step for him, he looks at it as a tune-up fight, didn’t really want to have the rematch, why–what do you think it was that actually got you this rematch and I know you wanted very badly?

Mora
Al Haymon, plain and simple, Al Haymon. I think no one was campaigning for this rematch, Dan. And I think a lot of people were surprised that it happened. I certainly was surprised that I got the phone call because, even though I was promised by Al a big fight my first fight back, I didn’t expect it to be for world title versus Daniel Jacobs in a rematch. So, I’m very, very thankful to Al Haymon. And honestly, just to–I mean, not to be funny or anything, but if I really have to thank another person, another thing, it’s Twitter because it gives me a voice when I was injured. And I never had that before. I just wish I would’ve started it earlier and had more of a following. So, yeah, I’ve got to thank Twitter, too.

Q
Do you think–I mean, you’ve had your ups and downs. You fought a lot of good names. But, you mentioned a little earlier 35 years old. Do you think this maybe this could be your last chance at a world title?

Mora
Yeah, probably. I mean, I can’t be foolish and say that I can move–I can beat Bernard Hopkins. I can’t. I’m not Bernard Hopkins. There’s only special people that could fight in their mid-30s and so on and still be fighting the best. So, even though, if my body hasn’t taken a beating, I’ve been in the game a long time. And the wear and tear from sparring and from running and from the dieting and from all the other stuff, all that takes effect.

But, even though I am well preserved, I’m still the age that I am. And the hunger’s still there. So, number one, if the hunger’s still there, everything else falls into place. So, we’re going to find out in two weeks exactly if the hunger and my body is at the same level.

Q
Were you anxious to just go right back in with Danny in a second fight if you could get the fight, or did you consider a tune-up?

Mora
No, no. Great question, Dan. Me and my team did have that discussion. And we did think about fighting someone else. And I think Alfredo Angulo was a name they offered and were considering. But, we know Angulo very well. And we just didn’t feel right taking that fight, especially watching the fight–his last fight. But, the ankle feels good. And we decided to go straight into this title fight because we weren’t sure we were going to get it again. I think the stars lined up perfectly for it to happen. And Jacobs admits that, too, that he didn’t want to fight me for whatever reasons, and I got this fight thanks to Al Haymon. And that’s it.

Q
What was it that made you decide that, ultimately, you would in fact give him the rematch, even though it’s clear that it’s not a fight that you want?

Jacobs
It’s just I understand how it left a bad taste in people’s mouths. So, with the options that we were given, with talking to Al and talking with my team, I guess it just kind of made–not sense, but it just was the right thing to do at the very–at that moment. And I won’t say we looked at it as, like, hey, this is an easy win or this is an opportunity to make easy money.

Like, we don’t look at it like that. But, we kind of just–and we definitely wasn’t forced into the fight. So, that’s another thing that I want to make clear. Al Haymon didn’t say, “Hey, this is going to be what you’re going to do.” So, me and my team came together. And for whatever reasons, we allowed this fight to happen, but we definitely wasn’t forced into it.

Q
So, you mentioned you had some other options that were brought to your attention. What were those other options?

Jacobs
They just wasn’t–like, it wasn’t guys in my opinion at that level that were bigger and better. Like I said before, we looked at the whole scene of the middleweight division, and Andy Lee and a couple other guys that names were thrown out there. We were trying to make that fight happen with Lee. I think that fight kind of fell through maybe once or twice. So, we were just like, “Hey, let’s just go with Sergio Mora.” The way we–the way it looked and the way we won kind of left a little bit bad taste in people’s mouths. So, it just makes sense to do it.

Q
What is the big fight out there? You are–as the WBA’s regular champion, you are the mandatory for Gennady Golovkin. I want to know if that’s a fight that you’ll consider after this?

Jacobs
Absolutely. That’s the fight that I want. I want the best out there. We tried to make the fight with B.J. Saunders. We tried to make the fight with a couple other guys. But, it just didn’t work. Chris Eubank, Jr., was another opportunity for us to fight. But, he didn’t want no part. So, even after winning the–forgot what title he won because I know I was his mandatory at some point, and he declined. And so, we want to fight the best, point blank, period. Triple G is the best, and that’s the guy that we want.

Q
What kind of particular stylistic problems you think you’d give Golovkin that he hasn’t seen yet?

Jacobs
I definitely believe I would be the toughest test because I believe I would be the victor in that fight. I definitely believe in my skills and my ability. At one point in my career, the only reason why I said I wanted to wait was so I could get 12 rounds so we can go the full distance and know how we can actually feel in a tough fight for 12 rounds. I’ve accomplished that. And then the only thing that was kind of keeping me from making this fight happen earlier was the finance. So, people saying I was ducking or I was doing a whole bunch of this and a whole bunch of that, that’s far from the truth. I just wanted to be compensated accordingly. And that was it. If we can make these fights happen sooner than later, I’m all for it. But, in the same token, I still would like to be compensated accordingly.

Q
Are you confident that you could get a deal done that would be good for the finances?

Jacobs
I don’t really know too much about that. I mean, I have a great team. And I leave all those things up to my team. My thing is to stay ready, to be ready, and to perform at my best when I’m inside the ring. So, whatever the logistics is outside the ring, all I have to do is say, “Yes, I’m comfortable with that. And let’s make the fight.”

Q
Now, I know you’re a pretty even-keeled guy, but has Sergio got under your skin with all the trash talk?

Jacobs
Oh, hell yeah. I mean, not under my skin to where it would affect my game plan or it’ll affect me inside the ring. No, it’s just some of the things that he’s said or from the pictures that he’s posted, and that’s what he’s supposed to do. And he’s landed an opportunity at fighting me again. But, this is an opportunity that I’m looking forward to. And this is probably for me the first personal fight that I’m entering in with mean intention.

Q –
And a question for Sergio. You’ve been around for a long time. You’ve fought a lot of top guys, like Sugar Shane and so forth. Where–how would you compare Danny to those guys? And how do you think you’ll–a guy like you who has such a high boxing IQ, how do you think a rematch would help you?

Mora
Sugar Shane and so forth, and Vernon Forrest, two great fighters. Look, Danny has his amateur pedigree. And he can fight behind the jab, like he says. And he could be–and he can fight on his back foot, as he claims. He says he’s gone 12 tough rounds. I only seen him go 12 one-sided rounds against a guy named Caleb Truax. Those weren’t tough. He doesn’t know what tough is yet. And he isn’t really–he hasn’t experienced what it is to be in there with an all-around championship caliber fighter for 12 rounds. I have. That’s the difference. That’s the difference.

And I feel that, until he experiences that, he still doesn’t know what it is to be an all-around champion, a champion that’s had to deal with getting knocked down, getting up, bad cuts, being down behind them cards, losing on cards going through the final championship round. These are the experiences you can only dream of and hope of. So, until you experience that, you can’t really say he’s done that. Right now, he still needs to learn.

Q
Sergio, do you relish having the kind of opportunity to, as you said, teach somebody to be a fighter?

Mora
Absolutely. I relish the opportunity to do great things, man. And I think that, if you look back at my career, every time I get a big opportunity, I conquer it, or something like the Shane Mosley thing happens where, actually, I won, and it was a draw. But, the big opportunities, I shine, man. And this is just something that always needs to happen, always have to take the hard route. That’s been my career, man. I’ve never been the A side. I’ve always been the B side that could compete with the A side.

And this is just another example of that. Danny, the young champion looking down on me, subordinating me, making me feel like I’m lucky to get this opportunity, I’ve dealt with that my entire career, man. It’s nothing new. I know I’m here over and over, time after time for a reason because I’m that fucking good. And so, people recognize and realize that. I’ll never get the credit for it. And that’s fine, as long as I keep getting the opportunities and as long as I become a three-time two-division champ.

Q
Tell us about that, how you approach the fight, what you expect to take place, especially in light of the last two fights ending quickly.

Jacobs
Well, I don’t really anticipate or expect anything. Boxing is one of those things where anything can happen at any given moment. My thing is I just want to be ready. And when I prepare inside the gym and I’m in tip-top shape, I’m prepared and ready for anything that will come my way inside that ring, whether it’s the first round or whether it’s the last round. It just so happens that these last couple of fights I’ve had been very exciting first rounders. So, my thing is, as long as I’m able to adjust, I can come and be prepared for anything that comes my way.

Q
What was key in those two fights–to both of those fights starting off with so much activity and so much action?

Jacobs
I think just getting warmed up properly and the backstage, making sure that the flow was going and that you don’t have to kind of warm up in those first couple rounds. Me and my team do a great job–and shout out to my team, by the way, who do such a great job with making sure that we’re prepared and ready for each round from the very first to the very end.

Q
And is that going to affect at all your game plan because people have seen those two previous fights, and they’re talking about it. They say, “Maybe this is a guy who is just going to destroy people in the beginning.” Is that weighing on your approach at all for this rematch?

Jacobs
Absolutely not. My MO as a fighter is to be a fluent boxer first. It just so happened that the speed and the power that I possess as well kind of hurt guys, and I’m a really great finisher, where actually, my mentality is to go in there and show my skills. That’s what I love about the [sweet science]. I actually love to get behind my jab and put my combinations together and start to get good movements and good angles. Like, I love that stuff.

But, it just so happens that, when I’m in there with guys and I’m starting to land good shots, and they get hurt, we just have rounds of the year and first round stoppages and early stoppages, so on and so forth. So, I’m just happy I’m able to get the victory and finish strong.

Q
And, Sergio, what do you expect? Do you expect this rematch to have this same type of electric start, or how do you prepare for this?

Mora
Well, we’re going to go back to Danny’s power. He does have power. And you’re born with power. You can’t teach power. You can’t go in the gym and work on power, or else I would’ve done that 20 years. So, he’s blessed with an ability to punch hard with both hands. And he’s always going to make for exciting fights. Now, he’s also vulnerable because he’s been dropped before. And that’s also on the exciting side. So, whenever it comes to a guy like Danny Jacobs, you never know what you’re going to get. It’s kind of like fighting a guy like Victor Ortiz, even though I think he’s better all around than Victor. Victor’s exciting. He’s a former champion. He’s a power puncher. But, you never know what Victor you’re going to get.

So, I think that’s the same thing with Danny, only Victor’s fought better opposition than Danny. So, that’s the difference. I think, for this fight, I don’t know, man. I really don’t know what I’m going to expect. I didn’t expect to go down in the first round. I was surprised by the punch. It was an awkward punch in from a southpaw angle. I believe his right foot was in front. I took a picture a little too long and held the position, expecting a left hook to come, and instead a right uppercut came, which is awkward. And he calls me awkward. That was an awkward punch. So, yeah, you know what? He stunned me. I got up. I shook it off. And he came for the kill, like I knew he would. And I was able to catch him. I think we both learned that we can hurt each other, and we both learned that we both can be sneaky from certain sneaky positions. So, I don’t think it’s going to start off with fireworks, like it did the first time. But, I think it’s going to end up fireworks. I don’t know if it’s the second, third, or further down the fight. But, that’s what I’m expecting.

Q
And would anybody like to make a prediction for this fight, Danny?

Jacobs
I don’t make predictions. I don’t like to go in there and have any type of thing going in my head where I have to live up to it. I just like to win. And however I win, however it comes, I’m grateful for it.

Mora
If I’m ready, I go in there to win. And I’m ready for this fight. I’m confident. I expect a great performance from both of us. And I expect to become a world champion, a two-time world division champion by the end of this fight. So, I’m expecting to win. I don’t know. But, I’m going to win.

Marc Abrams – Okay. Well, that’s going to wrap it up. I just want to get every–Daniel and Sergio, just a quick final comment. And after that, we’ll see you on fight week. Daniel?

Jacobs
I just have a lot of people to thank that I would take this time to thank. First off, I would like to thank my team and everyone involved for allowing me to have such a great camp. They’ve put in the necessary work, everyone, team Jacobs, the necessary work that we need to be 100 percent prepared for this fight come September 9th. I will be proudly representing my Brooklyn Boxing apparel as I’m sporting my trunks and finessing my moves inside the ring.

I want to give a big shout out to Brooklyn Boxing, have been supportive of my whole career. And me being an ambassador, I definitely have to big them up. And Al Haymon, most importantly, Al has been taking care of me. I’ve been the first guy that Al has had directly out of the amateurs to a world championship. So, I have to give my hat–take my hat off to Al and everyone in our team Haymon. And that’s pretty much it, all the promotors and managers involved with this as well, everyone who has made this possible, and thanks for all the fans for all the continued support. Thank you very much.

Abrams
And, Sergio?

Mora
I got to start with Al Haymon because he’s given me not only a second opportunity, third, I’ve already had four opportunities to come back and reinvent myself. And Al Haymon gave me that opportunity. So, I thank Al Haymon. I’ve got to thank my loyal team, my trainer Dean Campos, who’s been with me since the amateurs, [John Montillado], the rest of my team, my cut man Carlos, and [Panda Martinez]. And I want to thank my sponsors, [Snac]. Victor Conte’s onboard for this fight. And I’ve never been a fighter that takes supplement. I’m a guy that just tries to eat right and hydrate. And I notice a difference with supplements. And I do it the scientific way. So, I want to thank the Snac System and Victor Conte. And I want to thank my sponsor Spy Optics. And that’s about it. I want to thank the fans as well for–my day-one fans and even my critics, they keep me alive, so thank them, too.

Jacobs
Yeah, you forgot one more person, brother. You forgot one more person, Sergio.

Mora
I want thank, what, Danny Jacobs?

Jacobs
That’s it. That’s my man. That’s my man.

Mora
Go fuck yourself. I see you in two weeks, old boy.

Jacobs
Well, let’s do it on September 9th. You already know, Sergio, I’m coming for you, brother. I’m coming for you.

TICKETS: Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions,
start at $20 and are on sale now via Ticketmaster.

Da
SANTANDER, PA. (August 4, 2016) – Middleweight world champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs (31-1, 28 KOs) will defend his title in a rematch against former world champion Sergio “The Latin Snake” Mora (28-4-2, 9 KOs) that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on Spike, Friday, September 9
from Santander Arena, in Reading, Pa.

Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT and features undefeated lightweights colliding for a vacant world title as Robert Easter Jr. (17-0, 14 KOs) takes on Richard Commey (24-0, 22 KOs). Also on the card, heavyweight contender Travis “My Time” Kauffman (30-1, 22 KOs) will be featured in a 10-round fight.

Jacobs and Mora met in an August 2015 firefight that saw both men hit the canvas in round one. Mora was floored by a Jacobs right hand but the tricky veteran recovered and caught Jacobs with a clean left that put Jacobs on the ground. The action was halted in round two after Jacobs knocked Mora down again, rendering him unable to continue after fracturing his ankle on his way to the mat.

“This is business for me, but it is also more personal than any fight I have ever had,” said Jacobs. “Sergio has been using these antics online to get this rematch and he has gotten under my skin. There has been a lot of back and forth as far as people’s opinions as to who would have won the fight had he not gotten hurt. I am looking at this as an opportunity to clarify that I am the real champion. I want to shut his trap in primetime.”

“I don’t think Jacobs wanted this rematch, but it was destined to happen and now he has to deal with it,” said Mora. “I thought the first fight was going my way. I knocked him down in the first round and was out boxing him in the second round. He knows that I have enough power to hurt him. He has more to worry about going into this fight than in the first fight. Look at my resume, I have fought solid opposition. Jacobs doesn’t have that type of resume.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, start at $20 and are on sale now via Ticketmaster.

“This is going to be one of the best cards of the year,” said Marshall Kauffman of King’s Promotions. “There are two great world title fights with Jacobs and Mora plus Easter and Commey. The first Jacobs – Mora fight was headed to be a shootout before Mora got injured. Easter and Commey has all the makings of a war. Add that to Travis Kauffman continuing his road to the heavyweight title plus the best fighters from Reading on the card, The Santander Arena will be electric both inside the ring and in the building on September 9.”

The 29-year-old Jacobs followed up his victory over Mora with a sensational first round knockout of previously unbeaten former champion Peter Quillin in their highly anticipated December showdown. An inspirational figure representing Brooklyn, New York, Jacobs completed his road from cancer survivor to champion when he defeated Jarrod Fletcher for the middleweight title in 2014.

The winner of NBC’s “The Contender” series, the 35-year-old Mora is a former world champion at super welterweight and looking to add a middleweight crown to his name as he returns to the ring for the first time since the injury suffered in the first Jacobs fight. The Los Angeles native owns victories over Ishe Smith, Peter Manfredo Jr. and Vernon Forrest.

An accomplished amateur who was a 2012 U.S. Olympic alternate, the 25-year-old Easter Jr. picked up four victories in 2015 including knockouts over Osumanu Akaba, Miguel Mendoza, Alejandro Rodriguez and Juan Ramon Solis. Unbeaten since turning pro in 2012, the Toledo, Ohio-born prospect faced the toughest challenge of his career in April when he impressively stopped former world champion Algenis Mendez also on Spike.

Representing Accra, Ghana, Commey has climbed the ranks since turning pro in 2011 and has yet to be defeated. The 29-year-old won his first 11 bouts fighting out of Ghana before going to London, Denmark, South Africa and Germany to improve his record to 24-0. Commey fought in the U.S. as well, stopping Bahodir Mamadjonov in the eighth round last May.

A local attraction fighting out of Reading, Kauffman is the son of longtime trainer and promoter Marshall Kauffman. Kauffman won his first 18 pro fights and entered his last bout on a 12-fight winning streak. The 30-year-old dropped Chris Arreola in his last outing before losing a majority decision that was later changed to a no decision. Now, Kauffman looks to impress in his hometown as he returns to the ring.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @DanielJacobsTKO, @TheLatinSnake_, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports @KingsBoxing_ and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions. PBC on Spike is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

BROOKLYN (June 25, 2016) –World middleweight champion and Brooklyn native Daniel “Miracle Man” Jacobs (31-1-0) has been named the face of BROOKLYN BOXING, the flourishing boxing platform for Barclays Center.

In the multi-year agreement, Jacobs will wear BROOKLYN BOXING branded merchandise, appear in promotional materials and make public appearances on behalf of the brand.

Jacobs will train and compete in branded gloves, trunks, shoes and robes and will wear other apparel during fight week events and post-fight press conferences. As Jacobs and his corner men take their famed walk from his branded locker room to the ring, they’ll wear a full array of BROOKLYN BOXING gear. Fans can purchase their own apparel at BrooklynBoxingShop.com and during BROOKLYN BOXING events at Barclays Center.

“I’m proud to represent BROOKLYN BOXING, not just in the ring, but also in the community where I got my start in the sport,” said Jacobs. “BROOKLYN BOXING is a great platform for me to share my story about determination and never giving up. Brooklyn is my home and I’m proud to have achieved so many of my career milestones at Barclays Center.”

In 2011, Jacobs was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a life-threatening form of bone cancer. After an arduous battle, radiation treatments and surgery, Jacobs returned to the ring at Barclays Center where he went on to win his WBA world middleweight title in August 2014, a belt he still holds. He last defended his title at Barclays Center in December 2015, when he took down then-undefeated Peter Quillin in a shocking first-round knockout.

“Daniel is a true inspiration to Brooklyn, the boxing community and beyond,” said Brett Yormark, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment. “His story captures what BROOKLYN BOXING is all about – courage, toughness, and perseverance. We are proud to have Daniel represent the BROOKLYN BOXING brand globally. Wherever he goes, BROOKLYN BOXING will go.”

In support of the alliance, BROOKLYN BOXING will make an annual donation to Jacobs’ Get In The Ring Foundation, through which he advocates for children struggling with cancer, childhood obesity, and bullying.

The new BROOKLYN BOXING merchandise line features a unique brand of active wear, lifestyle apparel, accessories for men and women, fighters and fans alike.

The assortment includes in-ring essentials like BROOKLYN BOXING training gear, gloves and corner buckets, as well as street wear such as hats, hoodies, shirts, socks and skateboards.

ABOUT BROOKLYN BOXING™
Upon opening in 2012, Barclays Center brought major championship boxing back to Brooklyn after more than 50 years. Over the past four years, the BROOKLYN BOXING platform has hosted more than 120 bouts and more than 20 world title fights while giving local fighters their own shot in the spotlight. In April 2016, BROOKLYN BOXING extended its brand by creating an active wear and lifestyle apparel line that is available at www.BrooklynBoxingShop.com. BROOKLYN BOXING is proudly presented by AARP.

ABOUT BROOKLYN SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment is the business enterprise that manages and controls Barclays Center, the Brooklyn Nets, and the New York Islanders business operations. It is currently overseeing the redevelopment of Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, and will also manage the Coliseum’s future operations upon its opening in December 2016. BSE identifies and creates alliances, strategic partners and other business opportunities to ensure the success of its assets. For more information on Barclays Center, please visit www.barclayscenter.com or follow on Twitter @barclayscenter.

LOS ANGELES (Jan. 20, 2016) – Golden Boy Promotions has a great reputation in the sport as one of the leading promoters as well as a skill for creating and promoting world champions and boxing superstars. Having worked and promoted multi-divisional world champions including: Bernard “The Alien” Hopkins, Erik “Terrible” Morales, Juan Manuel “Dinaminta” Marquez, Miguel Cotto, Marco Antonio “Baby Face Assassin” Barrera, Sugar Shane Mosley, Canelo Alvarez, Lucas “La Maquina” Matthysse, Jorge “El Nino De Oro” Linares, Randy “El Matador” Caballero, Abner Mares, Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder, Danny “Swift” Garcias, Keith “One Time” Thurman, Daniel “Miracle Man” Jacobs, Leo “Terremoto” Santa Cruz, Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, and Adrien “The Problem” Broner. In 2016, Golden Boy Promotions is looking to the future to usher in the New Era of Boxing spearheaded by current WBC, RING Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (46-1-1, 32 KOs).

For 2015, Golden Boy Promotions received extraordinary media acclaim for exciting fights year-round and was awarded the honors of Promoter of the Year, Event of the Year, Fight Cards of the Year, Fight of the Year, Fighter of the Year, and Knockout of the Year. Also, top prospects Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz Jr. (19-0, 11 KOs), Vyacheslav “Lion Heart-Chingonsky” Shabranskyy (15-0, 12 KOs), Jason “El Animal” Quigley (9-0, 8 KOs), and Diego De La Hoya (13-0, 7 KOs) not only graduated into contender territory, but also received honorable mentions for Prospect of the Year while Shabranskyy debuted at number nine on the light heavyweight pound-for-pound list.

Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz (24-0, 21 KOs), also debuted on the pound-for-pound list at number five in the heavyweight division after defeating former world champion challenger Bryant “By-By” Jennings via seventh-round technical knockout. Other fighters on the divisional pound-for-pound list include Canelo Alvarez, Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas (23-0-1, 17 KOs), Jorge “El Nino de Oro” Linares (40-3, 27 KOs), Bernard “The Alien” Hopkins (55-7-2, 32 KOs), Lucas “La Maquina” Matthysse (37-4, 34 KOs), Sadam “World Kid” Ali (22-0, 13 KOs), Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (22-5, 7 KOs), Randy “El Matador” Caballero (22-0, 13 KOs), Antonio “Relentless” Orozco (23-0, 15 KOs), Ronny Rios (25-1, 10 KOs), David Lemieux (34-3, 31 KOs), Sergio “Yeyo” Thompson (30-4, 26 KOs), and Jayson “Star” Velez (23-1-1, 16 KOs).

Golden Boy Promotions’ top picks for “Fighters to Watch in 2016” include (in alphabetical order):

WORLD TITLE CONTENDERS:

WBA International Welterweight Champion, Sadam “World Kid” Ali

Sadam “World Kid” Ali: A member of the 2008 United States Olympic team fighting out of Brooklyn, New York, Sadam “World Kid” Ali (22-0, 13 KOs) impressed boxing fans with his unanimous decision victory over Francisco “Chia” Santana in April, 2015 that earned him the WBA International Welterweight Title and also made him the mandatory challenger for the WBO Welterweight World Championship.

Randy “El Matador” Caballero: Indio star Randy “El Matador” Caballero (22-0, 13 KOs) hit the heights of the boxing world in 2014 when he defeated Stuart “Stuey” Hall for the vacant IBF Bantamweight World Championship. In 2015, forced Caballero to vacate the title, however, 2016 looks promising for the fighter as he prepares his big return to the ring on February 5 against Ruben Garcia at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.

Pablo Cesar “El Demoledor” Cano: Already a respected welterweight contender after bouts against the likes of Erik “El Terrible” Morales, Paulie “Magic Man” Malignaggi and “Sugar” Shane Mosley, Mexico’s Pablo “El Demoledor” Cesar Cano (29-4-1, 21 KOs) kept his march to a world title going in 2015, as he went unbeaten in three bouts against Jorge “Pantera” Silva, Juan Carlos “Merengue” Abreu and Silverio “Chamaco III” Ortiz.

Robinson “Robin Hood” Castellanos: The mandatory

WBC Featherweight World Championship Mandatory Challenger, Robinson “Robin Hood” Castellanos

challenger for the WBC featherweight world title, Celaya, Mexico’s Robinson “Robin Hood” Castellanos (23-11, 13 KOs) started his journey to become a champion very differently in 2014. Coming off a loss to Rene “Gemelo” Alvarado in February 2014, Castellanos followed it up with a dominant victory over Ronny Rios in October 2014, stopping the then-unbeaten prospect in the fifth round. Castellanos continued to show his power in January of 2015 facing the warrior Rocky Juarez for the chance to win the WBC Silver Featherweight title and become the mandatory challenger for the WBC Featherweight World Championship. Both fighters showed a lot of heart and put on one of the bloodiest fights of 2015, but it was Castellanos’ dominance that was on display as his powerful jabs, brutal uppercuts and well-timed counter-punching knocked down Juarez in the fifth and twice in the 10th round to win via unanimous decision with scores of 118-106, 118-106 and 118-107. Now, Castellanos is the WBC Feather World Championship mandatory challenger.

Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera: One of the truest warriors in the sport today, Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (22-5, 7 KOs) continued to show his supreme boxing skills and heart in a decision win over “Hammerin'” Hank Lundy in July to win the vacant NABF Super Lightweight title, and in 2016, big things are expected from Riverside’s “El Maestro” once more.

Tureano Johnson: A native of Nassau in the Bahamas, 31-year-old Tureano Johnson (19-1, 13 KOs) proudly represented his nation in the 2008 Olympics, making it to the quarterfinals in Beijing. In 2010, he turned professional and soared up the middleweight ladder before a controversial 2014 loss to Curtis Stevens. Undeterred, Johnson has since won five fights, four by knockout, and is one of the newest members of the Golden Boy Promotions roster. In his first fight since signing with Golden Boy Promotions, Johnson gave the fans a thrilling performance in the undercard of Gennaday Golovkin vs. David

Antonio “Relentless” Orozco

Lemieux at Madison Square Garden on October 17, 2015. Johnson faced Ireland’s Emmon O’Kane for the IBF Middleweight Title Eliminator, knocking down O’Kane twice in the first round and winning the fight via unanimous decision with scores of 118-108, 117-109, 119-107. Now the Nassau native is next in line for a shot at the unified middleweight championship in 2016.

Antonio “Relentless” Orozco: Unbeaten as a professional, San Diego’s Antonio “Relentless” Orozco (23-0, 15 KOs) made his move to the elite level of the super lightweight division in 2015. In May, Orozco defeated fellow rising star Emmanuel “Tranzformer” Taylor in Phoenix, but the best was yet to come, as he decisioned multi-division world champion Humberto “La Zorrita” Soto in their October bout at StubHub Center.

Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz: On Dec. 19, at Turing Stone Resort Casino inVerona,New York, Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz (24-0, 21 KOs) defended his WBA Interim Heavyweight World Championship against one of the toughest fighters in the division, Bryant “By – By” Jennings in a fantastic display of boxing skill with a dramatic seventh round knockout of the former world champion challenger Jennings. Ortiz, dominated the fight early on with powerful hooks, uppercuts and jabs that kept him in

WBA Interim Heavyweight World Champion,
Luis “The Real King Kong” Ortiz

control of the pace throughout the 12-round heavyweight brawl. The victory allowed Ortiz to keep his undefeated status but also made a loud announcement to the boxing community that a new heavyweight threat had arrived to the division. This fight catapulted Ortiz on the heavyweight pound-for-pound list debuting at number five.

Michael “The Artist” Perez: Undefeated since 2012, exciting New Jersey native Michael “The Artist” Perez (23-1-2, 11 KOs) had one of the biggest years of his career in 2015, as he decisioned always toughMiguel “Aguacerito” Acosta in January and then knocked out Luis “Chespi” Sanchez in six rounds in July to win the vacant NABO lightweight title.

Ronny Rios: After suffering the first loss of his career to Robinson “Robin Hood” Castellanos in 2014, Santa Ana, California’s Ronny Rios (25-1, 10 KOs) came back more determined than ever in 2015, and his performances in defeating Sergio “El Frio” Frias and previously unbeaten Jayson “Star” Velez proved that this 25-year-old was ready for prime time again.

USNBC Light Heavyweight Champion, Vyacheslav “Lion Heart-Chingonsky” Shabranskyy

Vyacheslav “Lion Heart – Chingonsky” Shabranskyy: People might have troublespelling the name of Vyacheslav Shabranskyy (15-0, 12 KOs), but among boxing fans, his name spells action, and he continued to deliver the goods in 2015, moving to 15-0 with wins against Garrett “The Ultimate Warrior” Wilson, Fabiano “Pit Bull” Pena, Paul “Pay Per View” Parker and Yunieski “El Monstro” Gonzalez, the latter three foes owning a combined 34-1-1 record and breaking him into the top 10 light heavyweight rankings on USA Today’s Boxing Junkie and ranking number 12 on the WBC’s rankings.

Patrick Teixeira: Brazil’s best boxing import since beloved former champion Acelino Freitas, unbeaten southpaw Patrick Teixeira (26-0, 22 KOs) fought twice in the United States in 2015, impressing fans in New York and California with knockouts of Patrick Allotey and Don Mouton that sent a warning to his fellow 154-pound fighters that he was here to stay.

CONTENDERS TO WATCH:

Manuel “Tino” Avila: Fairfield, California’s Manuel “Tino” Avila (19-0, 8 KOs) has long been one of the most exciting prospects on the local scene, and in 2015, he made his name on the national scene with wins over Erik Ruiz, Yoandris “El Nino” Salinas and Jose Angel “Pepe” Beranza, the Salinas fight earning him the interim NABF super bantamweight title.

WBC Youth Super Bantamweight Champion,
Diego De La Hoya

Diego De La Hoya: Highly-touted super bantamweight Diego De La Hoya (13-0, 7 KOs)made the jump to eight and ten-round bouts in 2015 and he continued to impress every step of the way en route to five more victories. In September, De La Hoya won his first pro title, decisioning against former world title challenger Jesus “Estrella” Ruiz for the vacant WBC Youth World Super Bantamweight belt.

Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz Jr.: A member of the 2008 United States Olympic team, South El Monte, California’s Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (19-0, 11 KOs) won his first professional title in his fifth victory of 2015, as he impressively stopped Hugo “Olimpico” Partida in December to win the vacant NABF featherweight title and an honorable mention as one of ESPN.com’s 2015 Top 20 Rising Stars.

KeAndre “Black Magic” Gibson: 24-year-old welterweight undefeated fighter, KeAndre “Black Magic” Gibson (14-0-1, 6 KOs), who now makes his home in Las Vegas, has become quite popular with impressive victories over John Nater, Jose Hernandez and Nelson Lara. In his second fight of 2015, Gibson faced Jorge Ramos in an eight round fight winning the bout via unanimous decision in the undercard of Canelo-Kirkland on May 9.

Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez: East LA’s Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez (19-0, 13 KOs) is known for his exciting style and powerful punches. He is the owner of 13 knockouts in three rounds or fewer and can also box, as shown in his near-shutout victories over longtime contenders Vernon “Ice Man” Paris in July of 2014 and Jorge “Pantera” Silva in October of 2015. A decorated amateur who won the 2009 United States Championship and earned a Silver medal in the 2009 World Championships, Gomez is ready to face the top opposition in the division and chase his dreams of a world championship in 2016.

Gilberto “El Flaco” Gonzalez: A former WBC Youth World Lightweight champion,

Abraham “Chamaco” Lop
Gilberto “El Flaco” Gonzalez (25-3, 21 KOs) picked up two early knockout wins in 2015, halting David “Nene” Rangel and Hevinson Herrera to set up a big 2016 for the Mexico City native.

Abraham “Chamaco” Lopez: Featherweight standout Abraham “Chamaco” Lopez (19-0-1, 14 KOs) returned from three years away from the sport in 2015 and the El Puente product picked up where he left off with knockout victories over former Ghana Olympian Alfred “The Stinging Bee” Tetteh and Jorge “King” Diaz and a draw against Juan “El Pez” Carlos Martinez.

Marcelino “Nino” Lopez: The latest star to emerge from the boxing hotbed of Argentina, Buenos Aires’ Marcelino “Nino” Lorenz (32-1-1, 17 KOs) continued dominating the local scene in his home country, but in October of 2015, he finally got the chance to introduce himself to United States fans when he knocked out David Rodela in three rounds at the StubHub Center in Carson, California.

Roberto “Tito” Manzanarez: Los Mochis, Mexico native Roberto “Tito” Manzanarez (32-1, 26 KOs) continued romping through the lightweight division in 2015, adding to his stellar record with a decision over Edgar “Lupillo” Ramirez and knockouts of Daniel “El Mulato” Valenzuela and Cristian “Veneno” Lopez.

NABF Lightweight Champion, Marvin “Cachorro” Quintero

Marvin “Cachorro” Quintero: Born in Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico, but now making hishome in Tijuana, Marvin Quintero is a former world title challenger whose first title fight was a razor-thin split decision loss to Miguel Vazquez in 2012. Since then, the 29-year-old southpaw has won two fights by knockout over Carlos Sanchez and Cesar De la Mora. In September of 2015 the veteran fighter proved he still had what it takes to chase championship gold when he defeated Puerto Rico’s Jeffery Fontanez via fifth-round knockout to gain the NABF Lightweight Title.

PROSPECTS TO WATCH:

Damon Allen: 23-year-old Philadelphian Damon Allen (8-0, 3 KOs) stepped through the ropes twice in 2015, stopping Luis “Yeye” Rodriguez in three rounds at home in Philly before making his Los Angeles debut in November with a decision victory over Oscar Santana.

Nick Arce: Hard-hitting 19-year-old Nick Arce (6-0, 6 KOs) didn’t stick around long for his five wins in 2015, as he knocked out each of his opponents before the final bell. This power and finishing ability has made this featherweight a must see for California fight fans, and the rest of the country should get introduced to him in the coming year.

D’Mitrius “Big Meech” Ballard

D’Mitrius “Big Meech” Ballard: 2015 was a pivotal year for Maryland supermiddleweight D’Mitrius Ballard (11-0, 7 KOs), and he passed his tests with flying colors, showing that he could box as well as bang in decision victories over Josue “Chiquilin” Ovando, Juan Carlos “Chiflado” Rojas and Fabiano “Pit Bull” Pena.

Ivan “Striker” Delgado: Keeping a steady pace throughout 2015, 25-year-old lightweight prospect Ivan “Striker” Delgado (8-0-1, 2 KOs) won five more bouts, and with fans packing the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles to see him fight on the LA Fight Club events, the future is bright for this up and comer.

Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez: 20-year-old Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez (12-0, 11 KOs) added four more wins to his perfect pro record in 2015, and while he went the distance for the first time against Darryl Hayes in June, he closed out the year with a pair of second-round knockouts of Luis “Lichito” Lizarraga Jr. and Alejandro Ochoa.

Joet Gonzalez: Former amateur standout Joet Gonzalez (12-0, 6 KOs) is finding his way onto many hot prospect lists after a 2015 campaign that saw him go 4-0 with three knockouts. Included on that slate is a third-round KO of 12-0-1 prospect Marcos Rios in November.

Rashidi “Speedy” Ellis: A swift and ferocious striker, the undefeated Rashidi “Speedy”

WBA Fedecentro & WBC Interim Latin Welterweight Champion,
Rashidi “Speedy” Ellis

Ellis (14-0, 11 KOs) has repeatedly showcased his skills to audiences, most recently with a fourth-round technical knockout victory in Puerto Rico over Victor “Pambele” Gonzalez in March 2015 to claim the vacant WBA Fedecentro and the WBC Interim Latin Welterweight titles. Ellis won his three previous fights via technical knockout, defeating Joseph De los Santos and Joanthony Vazquez in Puerto Rico and Jose Martinez in the Dominican Republic. Later in 2015, Ellis played a key part in the training camp of Golden Boy Promotions fighter and now WBC, RING Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez. The 22-year-old Ellis trained with Canelo as a sparring partner in preparation for Alvarez’s November 21 super fight against Miguel Cotto. After “Speedy” put Alvarez to the test with his notoriously fast fists in training camp, Alvarez defeated Cotto via unanimous decision.

Travell “Black Magic” Mazion: 20-year-old Travell “Black Magic” Mazion (10-1, 10 KOs) is one of the top prospects in boxing, a fact evidenced by his a perfect professional record and knockout ratio, ending six fights in the first round. Now ready for his biggest year yet, Mazion is looking forward to start off the year strong in 2016.

Oscar “El Jaguar” Negrete: Now making his home in Los Angeles, 27-year-old Colombia native Oscar “El Jaguar” Negrete (12-0, 5 KOs) was a stellar amateur before turning professional on May 24, 2013 with a four-round decision victory over Cristian Ciciliano. Two more wins would follow in 2013 for Negrete, but it was in 2014 that he began to get noticed in his adopted home state of California, as he stepped up to the plate four times and hit it out of the park with each appearance, decisioning unbeaten Carlos

Zachary “Zungry” Ochoa

Medina and stopping Pablo Cupul, Gabriel Braxton, Salvador Perez. 2015 proved to be a
busy year for Negrete as he fought five times winning all his bouts via decision excluding the most recent in December, where he defeated Ernesto Guerro via third-round technical knockout.

Zachary “Zungry” Ochoa: After winning the first nine fights of his professional career onthe east coast, Brooklyn’s Zachary “Zungry” Ochoa (13-0, 6 KOs) took his show on the road in 2015 and he continued to show off the skills that have made him a top prospect as he picked up four wins, including a big victory in Los Angeles over David Rodela and Alejandro “Soma” Rodriguez.

Jason “El Animal” Quigley: Former Irish amateur star Jason Quigley (9-0, 8 KOs) began his professional career in the United States in 2014, and he never left, learning his craft in Southern California. In 2015, Quigley scored five more wins by knockout before decisioning Marchristopher Adkins on November 20 and earning an honorary mention by Boxing News Magazine UK as one of the top prospects in the sport.

Julian “El Camaron” Ramirez: 22-year-old southpaw sensation Julian Ramirez (15-0, 8 KOs) kept piling the wins on in 2015, with his victories over seasoned veterans Raul “Bule” Hidalgo and Hugo “Olimpico” Partida setting Los Angeles’ “El Camaron” up for even bigger bouts when 2016 rolls around.

Lamont Roach Jr.

Lamont Roach Jr.: Washington D.C.’s Lamont Roach Jr. (9-0, 3 KOs) nearly doubled his
professional experience in 2015 with four victories that proved this 20-year-old super featherweight prospect is the real deal and a fighter to watch in 2016 and beyond.

Emilio Sanchez: Popular 21-year-old featherweight Emilio Sanchez (10-0, 7 KOs) had a busy year fighting in Golden Boy Promotions’ LA Fight Club series, going 5-0 with three knockouts at downtown Los Angeles’ Belasco Theater. The wins helped build Sanchez’ following and set the stage for another big year in 2016.

Hector “El Finito” Tanajara Jr.: Hailing from San Antonio, Hector “El Finito” Tanajara Jr. (4-0, 3 KOs) has been fighting since 2007 and during that time has won eight national championships. In 2012, he qualified to attend the Veles Cup in Kurgan, Russia and took the gold medal in his weight class and was selected as one of seven to go to the 2016 Olympic trails. Decinding instead to become a professional boxer and sign with Golden Boy Promotions in 2014, Tanajar Jr. is now the owner of an undefeated record of 4-0 with three knockouts. Tanajara will look to continue his winning streak in 2015 when he fights on Feb.5.

ABOUT GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS:
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy Promotions was established in 2002 by 10-time world champion in six divisions Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy Promotions is one of boxing’s most active and respected promoters, presenting shows in packed venues around the world and has worked with networks such as HBO, HBO Latino, Estrella TV, ESPN, TeleFutura, FOX Sports 1, FOX Deportes, Televisa and TV Azteca. The company has also promoted some of the top boxing events in the history of the sport including De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Mayweather vs. Canelo and other notable pay-per-view fights featuring fan-favorites Bernard “The Alien” Hopkins, Juan Manuel “Dinamita” Marquez, Miguel Cotto, Marco “Baby Faced Assassin” Antonio Barrera, Erik “El Terrible” Morales and Sugar Shane Mosley. For more information, visit www.GoldenBoyPromotions.com, or follow on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @GoldenBoyBoxing.

NEW YORK (Dec. 17, 2015) – Middleweight World Champion Daniel Jacobs will join the SHOWTIME® announce team as an in-studio guest this Saturday for the Andy Lee-Billy Joe Saunders WBO middleweight world title showdown that airs live on SHO EXTREME (5 p.m. ET/PT), from Manchester, England.

Jacobs will be in New York to share his thoughts, insight and perspective with boxing experts Brian Custer, Al Bernstein and Paulie Malignaggi before and after the UK-based BoxNation coverage of the championship fight.

Jacobs, of course, has more than a passing interest in the outcome of the 50-50 matchup. The WBA Middleweight World Champion who defeated previously unbeaten and former world champion Peter Quillin in one round earlier this month on SHOWTIME, Jacobs could be looking at a unification fight against the winner.

Earlier this week, Jacobs gave his thoughts on the Lee-Saunders matchup:

“I’m excited for the winner of Lee vs. Saunders,” Jacobs said. “I’m rooting for Andy Lee because I think that’s a bigger fight for me. Doing something in the U.S. between the two of us would make a lot of sense. He has a huge following here in New York, just like me obviously. It would be a classic showdown that Brooklyn would appreciate.

“May the best man win between the two of them, but if Andy wins I think it would be very interesting for both of us.”

The SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL Lee vs. Saunders fight will re-air on SHOWTIME EXTREME on Saturday at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

WBA World Middleweight Champion Daniel Jacobs is backing rival WBO king Andy Lee to emerge the winner out his fight against Billy Joe Saunders to set up a unification fight, but the Hatfield ace says he’ll scupper that.

Brooklyn puncher Jacobs smashed neighbourhood rival Peter Quillin – who held Lee to a draw in April – inside a round last Saturday night in a brutal performance that sent shockwaves through the 160lb ranks that also holds elite fighters Gennady Golovkin and Saul Alvarez.

Jacobs will be a keen observer of the Lee v Saunders battle on Saturday 19th December at the Manchester Arena, that will be televised live in the U.S on Showtime, and believes a fight against Lee – who’s fought the majority of his career in the States and is a fight fan favourite with his thrilling KO wins against John Jackson and Matt Korobov – will be a bigger draw than Saunders.

“I’m excited for the winner of Lee vs. Saunders.” Said Jacobs.

“I’m rooting for Andy Lee because I think that’s a bigger fight for me. Doing something in the U.S. between the two of us would make a lot of sense,”

“He has a huge following here in New York, just like me obviously. It would be a classic showdown that Brooklyn would appreciate,”

“May the best man win between the two of them, but if Andy wins I think it would be very interesting for both of us.”

However, undefeated Saunders has told Jacobs not to book any dates to face Lee just yet as he aims to emerge the winner.

“Full respect to Jacobs for winning his fight against Quillin in such sensational style,” Said Saunders

“I did predict beforehand that Quillin would beat him on points and I called that one wrong when he did him in a round. I also said that I’d be too fast for both him and Quillin and I still say that would be the case,”

“So he’s tipping Andy Lee in this one? For the boxing trade and public it is a genuine 50-50 fight and a hard one to call, but I know in my mind what I’m going to do in the fight and win the world title,”

“We’ll see what happens in just under one week’s time when me and Lee clash, but there’s only one winner and that’s me.”

“If Jacobs is getting excited at the thought of him against Lee then I’m going to have to crush that dream for him.”

Frank Warren’s end of year title extravaganza ‘X-Mas Cracker’ is headlined by two massive world title showdowns with WBO World Middleweight Champion Andy Lee defending his title against Billy Joe Saunders and WBO World Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Smith making his first title defence against Jimmy Kelly. A staggering SIX further titles are on the line with Mitchell Smith defending his WBO Intercontinental Super-Featherweight title against George Jupp; Paul Butler challenges for the Vacant WBO European Super-Flyweight Championship against Silvio Olteanu; Tommy Langford defends his WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Championship; Commonwealth Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Williams and Kris Carslaw clash with the Vacant British title also on the line; Jack Catterall defends his WBO Intercontinental Super-Lightweight Championship, and Tom Stalker and Craig Evans clash again for the Vacant WBO European Lightweight Championship. The undercard features Merseyside favourite Joe Selkirk in a six-round contest, Indian superstar Vijender Singh, Anthony Yarde and top Manchester prospects Jack Flattley and Dale Coyne, plus Razza Hamza.

Tickets are priced at £40, £50, £75, £100, £200 and £300 are available from:

www.frankwarren.com

TicketMaster

0844 844 0444

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Eventim

0844 249 1000

www.eventim.co.uk

Manchester Arena

0161 950 5000

0161 950 5229 (disabled access bookings)

www.manchester-arena.co.uk

*Tickets are subject to a booking fee.

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise Daniel Jacobs v Peter Quillin live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546 and Talk Talk 415. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com Or watch online at Livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android.

NEW YORK, NY – December 8, 2015 – For the first time ever, a boxing match has been released in its entirety in 360 degree immersive virtual reality, as SHOWTIME captured the shocking first round TKO from Saturday night’s main event between WBA Middleweight World Champion Daniel Jacobs’ and previously undefeated challenger Peter Quillin. The all-Brooklyn main event has been made available in 360 video from ring-side, giving fans an unprecedented boxing experience. The virtual reality video engrosses viewers in the matchup of the top middleweights, facing off in the prime of their career, where Brooklyn’s Jacobs (31-1, 28 KOs) won the “Battle For Brooklyn.” The 360 footage is viewable on the SHOWTIME Sports’ YouTube channel*, the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page, on the Samsung Gear VR via the MILK VR app and Littlestar VR apps for Samsung Gear VR, iOS and Android.

The telecast is currently available On Demand, on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and on the SHOWTIME streaming service. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING event happened live on SHOWTIME on Saturday night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. One minute into the fight, Jacobs landed a straight right to Quillin’s temple and pounced with an onslaught of punches while his opponent was against the ropes. Quillin stumbled forward and referee Harvey Dock looked in Quillin’s eyes and halted the fight without the challenger ever touching the canvas.

The executive producer of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING is David Dinkins Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing. Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

BROOKLYN, NY – In the Battle for Brooklyn, Daniel Jacobs retained his middleweight title and shocked the Barclay’s Center crowd by scoring a first round stoppage over Peter Quillin. Less than a minute into the opening round, Jacobs connected with a huge overhand right that buckled Quillin’s knees. From that point on, it was all-in or bust for Jacobs who rained down a barrage of punches on the staggering Quillin. The definitive punch came courtesy of another Jacobs overhand right that landed flush on Quillin’s temple. The crushing blow offset Quillin’s equilibrium, locked his knees, and sent him awkwardly stumbling across the ring. Referee Harvey Dock took a look at Quillin, and briefly hesitated before he jumped between the fighters to stop the contest. The time of the stoppage was 1:25 of round one.

“I hope he’s okay,” Jacobs said. “I was patient and when I came with an uppercut I knew I hurt him and that’s when I went for the kill.

“I told him I love him. Me and Peter go back to the Golden Glove days. I respect him to death, but I knew this fight would be my night. There are no lucky shots in boxing. Obviously I caught him with a shot. Once I knew I had him hurt I kept going.

“I saw his eyes and it looked like his equilibrium was off. I’m not a referee, but if I was I probably would have still gave him another opportunity.”

“I definitely would give him a rematch,” Jacobs continued. “I’m willing to fight him next if that’s what the fans want.”

Quillin seemed to disagree with the stoppage until watching the replay during his SHOWTIME post-fight interview.

“That’s right on the temple,” Quillin said. “In the moment you don’t know what happens until you see it in the replay.

“This is a time you sit with your family and figure out what you have to do. I have a lot of options, maybe a rematch is the best option.

“I can’t think of a better person to lose to than Danny Jacobs.”

Jesus Ceullar v Jonathan Oquendo — 12 Rounds, for Cuellar’s WBA Featherweight Championship

In Saturday night’s co-feature, Jesus Cuellar (28-1, 21 KO) decisioned Jonathan Oquendo (26-5, 16 KO) by wide margins to retain his WBA featherweight title.

Cuellar was the more active fighter throughout the bout, throwing over 300 more punches than his counterpart. He was also the fighter who pressed the action, forcing Oquendo to a fight mostly defensive-style bout.

The largely uneventful contest did feature a flash knockdown in the fourth found when Cuellar and Oquendo’s legs tangled and a straight left hand sent an off-balance Oquendo briefly to the mat.

The knockdown had no significant impact on the fight, as all three judges scored the fight in favor of Cuellar by significant margins.

Judges Kevin Morgan and John McKaie scored the bout 116-111, while Robin Taylor scored it a shutout for Cuellar, 120-107.

15Rounds.com scored the bout 118-109, Cuellar.

“We knew the fight would be difficult but we accomplished everything we wanted to during training camp,” Cuellar said. “The only thing that was left was the knockout, but because of the movement of his head it was impossible.

“First we’re going to rest and then we’re going to determine what’s next,” Cuellar said.
“We’ll have two more fights at featherweight and then move up in weight. Hopefully we get Leo Santa Cruz next.”

After the fight, Oquendo acknowledged that he didn’t properly implement his game plan.

“I have to give credit to Cuellar. I never got to use my game plan and he fought a good fight and he’s a good champion,” Oquendo said. “I needed to start more aggressive but I started boxing. That was my mistake. The head butt made it hard for me to see as well.

“I have time to come back and get another world title opportunity. I am disappointed, but I will be back in the gym ready to get back to work soon.”

—

Chris Algieri v Erick Bone – 10 rounds, welterweight

Chris Algieri (21-2, 8 KO) bounced back from consecutive losses to Manny Pacquiao and Amir Khan to earn a unanimous decision victory over Erick Bone (16-3, 8 KO). Algieri never looked sharp or comfortable against his Ecuadorian counterpart, often finding himself engaging blow-for-blow with his Ecuadorian counterpart. “I probably fought on the inside a little too much,” Algieri admitted after the fight.

Although he threw less punches than Bone, Algieri connected on 49% of his power punches, and landed 247 total punches, to Bone’s 185.

In the eight round, due to an undetected tangle of feet, Algieri knocked an off-balance Bone to the canvas with a straight right hand. That knockdown, which should have been ruled a slip or a trip, ended up being the deciding point on judge Julie Lederman’s scorecard who saw the fight 95-94, Algieri. Judges Ron McNair and Steve Weisfeld scored the bout wider with scores of 97-92.

“Erick said that he was going to have surprises, but I had a few of my own in there,” Algieri said. “I boxed a little bit and slugged more than I should have, but I was just having fun. He’s got a good punch, he’s an underestimated fighter and you could tell he was in great shape.

“This is big. Bone is a real tough guy and I felt in control. I thought the fight was mine the whole way. I wanted to get the knockout, but he was in great shape. I’m looking forward to big fights in 2016.”
—

Marcus Browne v Francisco Sierra — 10 rounds, light heavyweight

Former three-time New York Golden Gloves champion Marcus Browne stayed undefeated and earned his 17th professional victory with a TKO3 over his Mexican foe, Francisco Sierra. Browne shell-shocked Sierra in the first round, landing shot after shot, and within the first 90 seconds of the match had opened up a huge cut over Sierra’s right eye that continued to worsen as the fight progressed.

Between rounds three and four, referee Earl Brown called a halt to the bout, acting on advice from the ringside physician, who inspected Sierra’s cut and felt it best that the fight be stopped.

“I saw I cut him early, but I had to stay persistent and consistent,” said Browne, of Staten Island. “I had to work the jab and keep working it. I felt like I seized this opportunity to put my name out there.

“It is an honor to fight at Barclays Center for the 10th time. It was a nice stoppage – not necessarily the kind of stoppage that you want, but a stoppage is a stoppage.”
—

Yuri Foreman v Lenwood Dozier, 8 rounds, welterweight

In an eight round bout, former welterweight champion Yuri Foreman fought his way to a unanimous decision victory over Lenwood Dozier. Foreman, who hadn’t entered the ring in over two years before this contest, never seemed to get into his signature stick-and-go rhythm that propelled him to his championship back in 2009. Because of this, he found himself on the receiving end Dozier’s right hand on numerous occasions – including a stunning overhand shot in the middle of the first round. To his credit, Foreman was able to weather all storms, and at the conclusion of round eight, all three judges – Julie Lederman, Ron McNair, and Frank Lombardi – turned in scores of 77-75, Foreman.

Foreman’s record improves to 33-2, 9 KO, while Dozier’s record falls to 9-10, 4 KO.

—

Will Rosinsky v Joe Smith, Jr. — 10 rounds, light heavyweight

Joe Smith, Jr. (20-1, 16 KO) decisioned fellow New York light heavyweight Will Rosinsky (19-3, 10 KO) to notch the biggest win of his career. Smith Jr. used his bigger frame to impose his will on his smaller opponent – often walking Rosinsky backward before settling in to throw heavy punches. Both fighters excited early arrivers at the Barclay’s Center with their willingness to take a punch in order to land their own; engaging in numerous ruthless exchanges throughout. At the conclusion of the fight, all three judges scored the fight in favor of Smith Jr. Judge Ron McNair saw it 98-92; Frank Lombardi scored it 97-93; and Steve Weisfeld had it 96-92.

—

Luis Garcia v Willie Williams – 4 rounds, cruiserweight

Undefeated Cuban cruiserweight Luis Garcia scored a first round TKO over Willie Williams. With the win, Garcia, who now fights out of Cork, Ireland improves his record to 13-0, 10 KO, while Williams’ record now reads 14-11-2, 4 KO.

—

Titus Williams v Emmanuel Castro — 6 rounds, featherweight

In a six round bout that saw both fighters hit the canvas in round one, Long Island’s Titus Williams (4-0, 2 KO) outlasted Los Angeles’ Emmanuel Castro to stay undefeated. Williams earned a unanimous decision victory by scores of 60-54, 60-53, and 59-54.

—

Heather Hardy v Noemi Bosques — 8 rounds, bantomweight

Brooklyn’s Heather Hardy defeated Florida’s Noemi Bosques for the second time in seven months via a unanimous decision. Hardy earned a split decision victory of Bosques back in May, but this time around left no doubts in the judge’s minds as she dominated the contest from start to finish. Judge’s scorecards read 80-72, twice, and 79-73, all in favor of Hardy.

LONDON (Dec 4) – Middleweight star Peter Quillin says there will be nothing friendly about his world title matchup with fellow New Yorker Daniel Jacobs this weekend.

The pair will do battle in Brooklyn at the Barclays Center on Saturday night, exclusively live on BoxNation, with 28-year-old Jacobs putting his WBA title on the line against the former and undefeated champion in Quillin.

However, despite pre-fight talk of the duo being friends outside the ring, Quillin insists that will most certainly not be the case when they lock horns.

“Danny and I are very cordial, but when I step into that ring I want to bring harm to him and he wants to do the same to me. So I don’t know if you can consider us friends if we want to do that to each other,” said Quillin.

“I see a determined man in Daniel Jacobs. He’s battled with something I could never tell you about, so I give him that respect. I know what he’s coming to do Saturday night and I have to do it to him first,” he said.

Jacobs’s story is an incredible one having overcome cancer to eventually become world champion following a fifth round stoppage of Jarrod Fletcher last year.

This bout now represents the chance for him to claim hometown pride and he is ready to grab it with both hands, no matter how the fight plays out.

“A lot of people have said this won’t go 12 rounds. But you never know how a fight will go. Sometimes a war is expected and a boxing match breaks out. You never know how a fight will go,” said Jacobs.

“We’re prepared for the best Peter Quillin, whether he’s coming forward, backwards or side-to-side we do what we have to do to get the victory.

“I’m in a comfort zone at Barclays Center with my friends, family and fans cheering me on. But I also like that he has his people cheering too. That’s extra motivation. Technically there are people in my backyard rooting for me to lose,” he said.

‘The Miracle Man’ is also ready to put any friendship to the side when they get in the ring and was keen for the fight to happen sooner, when Quillin held the WBO title before vacating the belt.

“Peter Quillin said he didn’t want to fight me, years ago. Because of our personal relationship he said he didn’t want to fight me. I respected his opinion but I didn’t agree. This was back when he was a champion,” Jacobs said.

“I’m expecting the best Peter Quillin. We’ve both gone through intense training in order to make weight and be the best that we can be on fight night.”

The middleweight division features some of the biggest names around including Gennady Golovkin and Canelo Alvarez, with WBO champion Andy Lee and Billy Joe Saunders set to clash on December 19th to determine the other leading name at 160 pounds.

Jacobs though is ready to face any of the top candidates should he successfully come through the fight with 32-year-old Quillin.

“I just need to keep fighting at the elite level for 12-rounds in matchups like this. I’m a fan of the sport and I want to be in there with all the top guys. That’s why I called out Peter Quillin.

“I feel like I have the skill to be the best out there. When I get this victory I want to keep fighting bigger and better opposition,” said Jacobs.

Daniel Jacobs v Peter Quillin is exclusively live on BoxNation (Sky 437/490HD, Virgin 525, TalkTalk 415, online or app) this Saturday night. Visit boxnation.com to subscribe.

-Ends-
About BoxNation
BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated subscription boxing channel. For £12* a month and no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Khan vs Collazo and Mayweather vs Maidana.

The channel is available on Sky (Ch.437), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online at Livesport.tv and via apps (ios, Android, Amazon). BoxNation is also available in high definition on Sky (Ch. 490), at no extra cost to Sky TV subscribers, providing they are already HD enabled.

BoxNation is also available to commercial premises (inc. pubs, clubs and casino’s) in the UK and Ireland, for more information on a commercial subscription please call 0844 842 7700.

For more information visit www.boxnation.com

*Plus £8 registration fee for Sky TV and new Livesport.tv customers.

WBA Middleweight World Championship
Daniel Jacobs – 159½ Pounds
Peter Quillin – 159 Pounds
WBA Featherweight World Championship
Jesus Cuellar – 125¼ Pounds
Jonathan Oquendo – 125½ Pounds
SHOWTIME BOXING ON SHO EXTREME®: 7 p.m. ET/PT
10 Round Welterweight Bout
Chris Algieri – 145¾ Pounds
Erick Bone – 145¾ Pounds
8 Round Light Heavyweight Bout
Marcus Browne – 177½ Pounds
Francisco Sierra – 183 Pounds
# # #
Tickets for the live event start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. The event is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. The Algieri vs. Bone and Rosinksy vs. Smith Jr. fights are promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.
Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.
CONTACTS:

WBO World Middleweight title challenger Billy Joe Saunders says he’d be too fast for either WBA champion Daniel Jacobs or Peter Quillin who clash tomorrow night live on BoxNation.

Saunders faces Andy Lee for his WBO crown on Saturday 19 December at the Manchester Arena, but will be watching his rivals closely to see the outcome.

The mega-middleweight fights are coming in thick and fast on BoxNation with Gennady Golovkin v David Lemieux and Miguel Cotto v Saul Alvarez super-fights already televised on the Channel of Champions.

However, Saunders says he’s not worried about the threat that Jacobs or Quillin would pose to him as his lightning hand and foot speed would be too much for them if they met.

“The middleweight division is hotting up nicely now, you’ve got Golovkin, Alvarez, and Cotto is still in there, and now these two lads’ are squaring up tomorrow night,” Said the Hatfield star.

“For me personally if I was fighting either of them, I know I’d be way to fast for them and would have a field day with them, they’re sluggers and too slow, I’m the better boxer and a boxer always beats a puncher,”

“I’d be darting in out and out, plenty of angles, variety of punches from both hands, head movement, I’m not saying I’d knock them out, but I’d comfortably out-punch and out-work them,”

“Jacobs is a good lad and he’s got the title, but I fancy Quillin in this one to beat him because he’s going to walk him down and get the decision,”

“I’ve got to get past Andy Lee first, he’s a good man, but I’m confident of beating him, and I’ve always said my eyes are on Cotto, who’s a hero of mine and I’d love to fight him.”

Frank Warren’s end of year title extravaganza ‘X-Mas Cracker’ is headlined by two massive world title showdowns with WBO World Middleweight Champion Andy Lee defending his title against Billy Joe Saunders and WBO World Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Smith making his first title defence against Jimmy Kelly. A staggering SIX further titles are on the line with Mitchell Smith defending his WBO Intercontinental Super-Featherweight title against George Jupp; Paul Butler challenges for the Vacant WBO European Super-Flyweight Championship against Silvio Olteanu; Tommy Langford defends his WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Championship; Commonwealth Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Williams and Kris Carslaw clash with the Vacant British title also on the line; Jack Catterall defends his WBO Intercontinental Super-Lightweight Championship, and Tom Stalker and Craig Evans clash again for the Vacant WBO European Lightweight Championship. The undercard features Merseyside favourite Joe Selkirk in a six-round contest, Indian superstar Vijender Singh, Anthony Yarde and top Manchester prospects Jack Flattley and Dale Coyne, plus Razza Hamza.

Tickets are priced at £40, £50, £75, £100, £200 and £300 are available from:

www.frankwarren.com

TicketMaster

0844 844 0444

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Eventim

0844 249 1000

www.eventim.co.uk

Manchester Arena

0161 950 5000

0161 950 5229 (disabled access bookings)

www.manchester-arena.co.uk

*Tickets are subject to a booking fee.

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise Daniel Jacobs v Peter Quillin live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546 and Talk Talk 415. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com Or watch online at Livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android.

NEW YORK (December 3, 2015) – Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs and Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin spoke to the media for the final time Thursday at a press conference in Manhattan before they enter the ring Saturday, Dec. 5, live on SHOWTIME® at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The middleweight title showdown headlines a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar battling Puerto Rico’s Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo. In action on SHO EXTREME (7 p.m. ET/PT), former world champion Chris Algieri faces Ecuador’s Erick Bone and Staten Island’s “Sir” Marcus Browne enters the ring against Francisco Sierra.

Further undercard action features popular Brooklyn contender Heather “The Heat” Hardy, former world champion Yuri Foreman and light heavyweight contender Will Rosinsky in separate bouts.

Tickets for the live event start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. The event is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. The Algieri vs. Bone and Rosinksy vs. Smith Jr. fights are promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday:

DANIEL JACOBS

“A lot of people have said this won’t go 12 rounds. But you never know how a fight will go. Sometimes a war is expected and a boxing match breaks out. You never know how a fight will go. We’re prepared for the best Peter Quillin, whether he’s coming forward, backwards or side-to-side we do what we have to do to get the victory.

“I’m in a comfort zone at Barclays Center with my friends, family and fans cheering me on. But I also like that he has his people cheering too. That’s extra motivation. Technically there are people in my backyard rooting for me to lose.

“Peter Quillin said he didn’t want to fight me, years ago. Because of our personal relationship he said he didn’t want to fight me. I respected his opinion but I didn’t agree. This was back when he was a champion.

“I feel like I have the skill to be the best out there. When I get this victory I want to keep fighting bigger and better opposition.

“I just need to keep fighting at the elite level for 12-rounds in matchups like this. I’m a fan of the sport and I want to be in there with all the top guys. That’s why I called out Peter Quillin.

“I’m expecting the best Peter Quillin. When you expect the best and it doesn’t turn out that way, I can rely on that preparation.

“We’ve both gone through intense training in order to make weight and be the best that we can be on fight night.

On his son Nathaniel’s birthday today “My son is one of the biggest boxing fans in the world. He understands the situation at hand. He says he doesn’t want me to come home, he just wants me to focus on the fight and celebrate after. For him to donate his birthday to me is the most incredible thing ever.”

PETER QUILLIN

“Everybody wants to be a part of something that’s bigger than themselves. Everyone on this dais gives me a reason to fight even hard.

“Daniel Jacobs. I want to thank you. You’re the champ and you called out the undefeated challengers. I come from nothing, so I’m thankful to have this light and this opportunity.

“My dad came here without shoes or a shirt, just a pair of pants. Now his son is fighting for a world title on this stage.

“Everyone on this stage fights with their own story. I just want everyone to give respect. We all fight for different reasons and we just want to have people support us for positive reasons.

“I’m glad I’ve made the decisions that I’ve made in life that have taught me to be a better man and a better person. Regardless of what the media says about me, I’m thankful for it, because it motivates me.

“I fight for the people that need strength. For everyone who comes here fighting for opportunities.

“This camp was different because of the heat. I was training like I was in Cuba. I’m in a great position to be successful right now.

“I see a determined man in Daniel Jacobs. He’s battled with something I could never tell you about, so I give him that respect. I know what he’s coming to do Saturday night and I have to do it to him first.

“My team is outstanding. We’ve been putting things together. We have a factory, which is the gym and all the workers assemble the product. I’m the product. Come Saturday night we’re going to put the product to use.

“I’m fit. I’m ready to go. The training has been A-1, steak sauce. The steak is nothing with out the A-1. I’m blessed and motivated. I’m so fired to get in there.

“Danny and I very cordial, but when I step into that ring I want to bring harm to him and he wants to do the same to me. So I don’t know if you can consider us friends if we want to do that to each other.

“I can talk about my game plan but I just want to fight. I’m smart. I can only win one round and one minute at a time. I’m learning everything about Danny right in that moment. Every second counts.”

JESUS CUELLAR

“This will be a great victory for Argentina. I know Oquendo is a great fighter, but I will be victorious on Saturday night.

“I want to make a statement on Saturday. Everyone in the division should watch out for me, because I am coming for the top spot. I’m too motivated, too strong and too talented to be stopped.

“I fight for my country, for my team and for my family. This is a great stage for me to showcase my talent against a talented fighter. I know he will be prepared but I will not be denied.

“We both have very aggressive styles so this will be an action-packed fight. There will be a lot of punches thrown and eventually, I will knock him out.”

JONATHAN OQUENDO

“I’m thankful to everyone for this opportunity, especially Jesus Cuellar for putting his belt on the line.

“I know how important this fight is for me. I know Cuellar has a very aggressive style and this fight is going to be a war. There will be blood in the ring.

“I’m ready for a war. I know he is a tough, strong fighter, but we’ve been in there before with guys like him. We’re ready for a 12 round war.

“We’re confident because we’ve put in the work to get us here. Cuellar and I have the same style, the type of style that makes for a tough, exciting fight.

“This is my chance for a world title and I’m going to leave everything in the ring.”

CHRIS ALGIERI

“Barclays Center has become a second home for me. I’ve had some great performances there and I’m looking to have another sensational one on Saturday night.

“Make sure you get tickets to this. It’s an honor to be on a card like this with so many great fights and matchups. Being able to perform in Brooklyn with these other great fighters is truly special.

“Don’t miss my fight, because it’s going to be a sensational victory.”

ERICK BONE

“Boxing is about big surprises. Everybody knows in this sport, that everyone has one opportunity. This is my opportunity on Saturday night.

“I’m healthy, ready and excited to be fighting on Saturday. I’ve been in Brooklyn training for a long time now and it’s just a matter of waiting until it is my time to make my mark.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“I’m so thankful to have this opportunity to showcase my talent. I’m here to do what I have to do to get this victory. I’m ready to show out.

“This is a great card. I know both of these guys personally so I don’t really care who wins. May the best man win. The love is still the same, it’s tugging at me.

“Make sure you come out early because these fighters are putting it all on the line and it’s going to be a great night.”

HEATHER HARDY

“I’d like to thank Lou DiBella and Barclays Center for being so supportive of female boxing. It’s not very common so it really means a lot to have this spot to showcase my talent.

“I’m competing in a rematch with Noemis Bosques after we did eight rounds of toe-to-toe action back in May. It was really a war and I expect it to be a great battle.

“She wants to come back and get beat again, so make sure you get there early on Saturday to catch all of it.”

YURI FOREMAN

“It’s very exciting to compete amongst great fighters. Coming back is a great feeling for me, especially to be coming back as a Rabbi. For my observant friends, the fight starts early so for those who live a little distance from Barclays Center, you should start walking early and then take a train. I will be fighting after sundown, so it will all be kosher.

“I want to wish everyone good luck and much blessings. We’re all going to showcase our talent and skills. It’s going to be an exciting night of fighting.”

WILL ROSINSKY

“This is going to be a really good fight. Joe and I go back a long ways with sparring and we know each other very well.

“We’re not going to be feeling each other out. I’m expecting fireworks from the beginning and for all 10-rounds. Start to finish.

“He’s claiming to have one punch knockout power and I’m going to prove him wrong. I’m going to show him early that he’s in way over his head. It’s going to be a good win for me Saturday and I’m looking forward to it.”

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

“This Saturday night we have a tremendous show at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. It’s “The Battle For Brooklyn” and a battle between two of the great middleweights in the world. The championship is on the line and bragging rights are at stake.

“It’s going to be an entire night of unbelievable boxing from the time that the doors open. I want to urge people to get tickets and get there for the whole night of fights.

“The undercard is really, truly unbelievable. Competitive fights and recognizable names are going to be in the ring all night. It’s the kind of undercard that boxing fans have been asking for, for a long time. We’re delivering great fights from the moment you walk in.

“People have asked me who I like in Jacobs vs. Quillin and I say I like both of them, because that’s the truth. Frankly, both can win and they bring some different things to the table. Daniel is a little bit faster but Peter is a hard-punching middleweight who knocks guys out. It’s a scary fight for both guys but I think they’re both supremely confident.

“This is one of those fights if you’re a fan, you really have to see. Make sure you see it live. Get your tickets for an unbelievable night of boxing.

“This is the kind of fight that boxing needs. A champion versus a former champion, who never lost his title in the ring. Just as a fan, I’m really excited to watch this fight.”

BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Barclays Center

“Saturday night will be one of the biggest boxing events we’ve ever had at Barclays Center. It’s a huge week in Brooklyn and big night for boxing on Saturday.

“I consider both good friends who I would help whenever they needed. It’s going to be a special night for me, Barclays Center and most importantly, for Brooklyn.

“When you think about venues in this country, Barclays Center is at the top of the list when you’re talking about boxing and we’ve only been doing it for three years.

“Beyond the main event, there are some great stories to be told on Saturday night. When you think of Heather Hardy, Chris Algieri, Will Rosinsky, Yuri Foreman and of course Marcus Browne, who is fighting at Barclays Center for the tenth time and has certainly made it his home.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manager, SHOWTIME SPORTS

“This will be SHOWTIME’s seventh event at Barclays Center, which is roughly half of the boxing at Barclays Center, and that is no accident. On top of being a first class venue, all of you know by now that Brett Yormark has made himself a fixture in boxing. I can’t think of a better venue for an event like this.

“It’s an interesting week for New York sports. It’s rivalry week with last night being Islanders versus Rangers at Barclays Center, Friday night is the Nets against the Knicks and Sunday is Jets versus Giants. Right in the middle of it, is the ‘Battle For Brooklyn.’ It’s another local rivalry and I think it’s going to be the most exciting matchup of any of these events.

“You all know Daniel Jacobs, the champion and Peter Quillin, the former champion. In his last seven fights, Quillin has recorded 15 knockdowns. When you have those kind of numbers, and I don’t do this often, but I guarantee we’re going to have exciting fight after exciting fight.”

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.

BROOKLYN (December 2, 2015) – Before they enter the ring at Barclays Center, fighters competing on Saturday’s card headlined by the middleweight title showdown live on SHOWTIME® between Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs and Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin held a media workout Wednesday at Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn.

In attendance at the workout were both main event fighters, co-main event participants Jesus Cuellar and Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo along with Chris Algieri, Erick Bone and “Sir” Marcus Browne, who will have their fights aired on SHO EXTREME (7 p.m. ET/PT).

Competing in separate undercard fights and also in attendance at Gleason’s Wednesday were Heather “The Heat” Hardy, Yuri Foreman, Will Rosinsky and Joe Smith Jr.

Tickets for the live event start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. The event is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. The Algieri vs. Bone and Rosinksy vs. Smith Jr. fights are promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

DANIEL JACOBS

“Not only are we fighting for the bragging rights in Brooklyn, but we both want to be at the top of the middleweight division. All the top middleweights are fighting each other and we’re right in that realm.

“I believe my speed is my greatest advantage. My skill, my ring generalship … I could go on and on. Ultimately it’s about going in there and proving it.

“I think taking a loss before benefits me. I know exactly how to prepare and how to prepare to make sure I never have that feeling again.

“He’s gonna have to hit me to test my chin. This sport is about hitting and not getting hit. Anybody can be knocked down, but you have to land shots. Every time I’ve gotten knocked down, I’ve gotten up.

“My prediction is that I’m going to have my hand raised in victory. Whether it’s by knockout or decision, we’ll have to see.

“This camp has been different because I’ve had a pre-camp. We had three weeks of just strength and conditioning. I got in shape to get ready for camp. When it’s all done, it’s going to be a 10-week camp.

“Mentally I feel like I’m strong and I like where I’m at physically. My weight is good and I feel healthy. We’re going to give the best of everything.

“A lot of people are excited about the fights. I’m just excited it is finally here and I’m hoping to come out with a victory in impressive fashion.

“This is a boxer vs. a boxer-puncher. If I get a guy hurt. I can get a guy out of there as well. My punching power is there. I have more knockouts than Quillin and I’m going to be at my best on Saturday.

“I’m thankful for all my fans. I want everyone to know that I’m coming to represent Brooklyn and this show will not disappoint on Saturday night.”

PETER QUILLIN

“Distractions are in your head, but they can be a bit more here in New York. It’s nice to get away to Miami and be able to concentrate on training and have everything right there.

“The buzz around Brooklyn is I am the new champ. I came to New York with a small city mindset but big city dreams and now they are all coming true.

On chatting with Floyd Mayweather Tuesday night at Barclays Center: “It’s funny because I was speaking to a school today, but when I first met Floyd Mayweather, it was at my school and I was like ‘man I could be like that too one day’ and I told him about it. He didn’t understand why I said that, ‘it all started because of you’ and he said ‘what do you mean’ and I told him what happened. We laughed about it and that’s all I needed right there. I didn’t need him to do anything for me just to know that it all started back with him coming to my school and speaking to kids like me and look where I am now. I was only 14-years-old.

“You can expect fireworks in the month of December. We’re going to be throwing everything we can possibly throw.

“Being in Miami with all the Cuban history there was great. Boxing was like a fighter lifestyle. I was around many people who were inspirational beyond words.

“When I went to the (Erislandy) Lara fight we were looking for parking and I went up to a guy and I asked if we could park there. He goes ‘tu eres chocolate?’ (you are chocolate) and I said yes, and he said ‘do you know how much Cuban people love you?’ I had never realized that before and it made me more inspired, to speak more Spanish, to understand my people. Cuban people are my people, I never would deny that and I am very blessed. I am also a black American as well so I want to set a good example, especially where the time in the world is in right now for black people. I want to be an inspiration for both.

“We’ve got a plan A, plan B, plan C, plan D, plan E, plan F. We are going to go to beyond, but most importantly I am very happy. I am spiritually happy and thankful. You fall out of fear and fall into faith and you can never deny yourself, so that’s where I am right now.

“By being Cuban automatically you fight from a different point of perspective of the globe when it comes to fighting. For me, I’m thankful and more inspired to work even harder because I do have fans that I would never expect would be my fans.

“I haven’t seen ‘Creed’ yet; I am only focused on this fight. I want to create my own ‘Creed’ moments in this fight.

“Altogether I think it’s probably about an equally matched fight. You have two determined guys fighting for their own personal reasons; he’s fighting with a cancer story, I’m also fighting with that. My uncle passed away of cancer so I fight with a piece of him as well.

“I’m just Peter Quillin. All I know is just go in that ring, train against whoever it is, no matter who it is and do my best.

“My mom always said, ‘sometimes it takes getting put on your ass to know where you’re at’ so it could be helpful to him that he’s tasted defeat. He’s been there before, you fight with the reason that you don’t ever want to be there again or he could’ve even gotten better after that sitting on his butt, now he wants to fight harder.

“My prediction for Saturday? A new champion of the world.

“I’ve never been in this kind of moment before where I had to fight one of my friends. You never want to hurt your friend, but in this fight, I want to hurt Danny so what does that tell you about our friendship right there? Sometimes you don’t want to be friends with the guy that beat you up.
“It’s going to be sort of like July 4th but on Dec. 5th. You are going to expect fireworks, two determined guys throwing punches trying to win for two different reasons and you’re going to get an entertaining fight.

“I just have to let my hands go and not have a worry in the world because when you’re in there, you’re in there and there’s no way you can leave unless you leave in a stretcher, hand up or with a draw like we did in that fight.”

JESUS CUELLAR

“I’m coming here very prepared. I know Oquendo is a tough fighter and we are not taking him lightly. We’re ready for a 12-round championship fight.

“We know there will be a lot of Puerto Ricans supporting him, but they won’t change anything. They can’t get in the ring.

“You’re going to see a great fight on Saturday and you’re going to see Jesus Cuellar walk out of the ring a world champion.

“I want to fight the best in the division. There are many good fighters and I want all of them. I have no fear and I am extremely confident in my abilities.”

JONATHAN OQUENDO

“I come ready to fight. I didn’t want to take off a lot of time after I beat Jhonny Gonzalez. The opportunity for a world title shot came and I had to take it.

“I know he is a very strong fighter, but we are coming to win. I’m happy to be here in New York with the Puerto Rican fan base behind me. I never thought I’d be fighting for a world title here in New York on the biggest stage.

“It’s going to be a war. I like to stay there in the pocket. It’s going to be blood in the ring and you can expect that on Saturday.

“I had a great training camp up in Palm Beach, Florida for the first time leaving Puerto Rico, my hometown for training but on Saturday you’ll see a great Jonathan Oquendo and I’ll come out victorious.

“I have been training since after the fight with Jhonny Gonzalez. I went to Mexico to visit the virgin of Guadalupe and that Monday I was training and for me it was excellent.

“My last victory gave me a lot more energy, a lot more hunger and I know on Saturday we’ll come through victorious.

“Cuellar is a very strong boxer who exerts lots of pressure and we’re ready for that. We know of his record and the great success that he’s had. He’s the current champion and will be until the 5th.

“I’ve always wanted to fight here in New York and I never thought that it would be for a world title.

“It doesn’t matter which way, whether it’s a KO or decision, on Saturday I’m going to win.”

CHRIS ALGIERI

“I feel a lot more comfortable now with (trainer) John David Jackson and having a second camp. We got more weeks with him and haven’t really stopped training. Now I think we can settle in a little more, make some adjustments that were not able to make prior but now I feel a lot more comfortable.

“Being a favorite or not doesn’t change how I prepare for a fight but absolutely, this is the fight of his life. I’ve been here before fighting bigger names than myself but that’s just kind of the life cycle of boxing.

“Barclays Center is my favorite place to fight. I’ve had my best performances here and the fan support has always been fantastic. So I am looking forward to putting on another great show.

“Barclays Center is a premiere venue and it’s great and easy for my Long Island friends to come out and get right in there.

“I’ve learned and gotten more comfortable in the ring now but this is going to be a tough fight to fight. Everybody at this level is good so I’ve got to go out there and perform.

“I feel fantastic, I feel stronger, everybody says I look better. My power has definitely increased now that I am in a higher class and I am making weight very easy.”

ERICK BONE

“Camp has been strong, it’s been great, it has been one of the best camps that I’ve had so far.

“I feel good because Algieri has a big name. It’s going to be a challenge but in boxing once you get in the ring it doesn’t matter who comes in first or who comes in last in these fights. There’s no A and B, they’re so close.

“It has been very positive being here in Brooklyn to do my camp and training here. Being able to spar with the many great boxers who are here, it’s all a positive experience.

“For the fans that will see me on Saturday, I believe that I am a great boxer and they will see a great fight. They should keep an eye out for me because they will remember my name.

“We’re going to box and I trained to win and we are prepared for just that.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“You can expect fireworks, speed, good boxing ability, but, most importantly, a W. I feel like I’m in the best shape of my life and I’m ready to put on a good show

“Staten Island will come out to support, but I’m a New York fighter through and through. The whole city will be there supporting me.

“He’s tall, throws a lot of punches. We’re going to be ready for whatever he brings. He can get right-hand happy and we’ll be ready to counter that.

“Everyone who fights me, they’re all coming for my 0.

“In boxing at the end of the day, when you’re a young undefeated fighter, everybody wants to take that ‘0’ so that’s what makes guys hungry but for me personally I’m not worried about that. I’m just worried about what I’m going to do and what we’ve been working on in the gym to apply that on fight night come Saturday.”

HEATHER HARDY

“I had no break during Thanksgiving, we went straight through; matter of fact my mom is having our whole family over on Sunday for Thanksgiving dinner. It’s going to be a celebration and I’m going to eat my mashed potatoes like a good Irish girl is supposed to.”

“One thing I can say about my opponent is that she fights like a champion fights. There’s a different caliber of fighter that you go in there with and she’s not a quitter, she doesn’t give up. I couldn’t intimidate her, I couldn’t push her around and that’s something I’ve prepared for. She knows what I have and she’s not afraid to stand toe to toe with me so it’s going to be a battle.

“Her talent does motivate me. It brings something out of me and it puts on a better show for the fans and it gives a better show for female boxing. Holly Holm did not prove that Ronda Rousey couldn’t fight, it proved that more than one woman could fight at the same time. So, when two women can go in there and really go at it and give the people a show, it’s not just one girl doing a great job, it’s two women.

“I’m looking to prove that I am the champion, that I am the “First Lady” of Barclays Center.

“I’ve kept on this winning streak and I think I’m ready for the more elite fighters. I consider myself to really be a contender at this point so I’m looking forward to this. I’d like to start matching up for the world titles and all the girls who’ve got them.

“My trainer always says that there are only four punches in boxing, you better learn how to do them perfect every time you throw them and they’re getting there. So, I feel good, experienced, just being around certain things, not being surprised by anything because I’ve seen it before. All of those things play in to it.

“It’s surreal to be in this position. I still can’t believe sometimes people say ‘hey champ’ and I say ‘what? yea that is me.’ Just to be associated with this and how people think of me, to see me, to be mentioned on this card is an honor.”

YURI FOREMAN

“I don’t do predictions but I can predict that I am going to win.

“I feel good, with this comeback I am feeling these little butterflies here and there. I am happy that it is right here. The training is all done.

“The preparation has been great, I love the routine, I like to challenge myself and push myself to the limit extra hard but it’s a new feeling. I’m also trying to maintain my cool and not get into my head.

“There is extra motivation because there are so many great fighters on this card and everyone wants to showcase their talent, including me.

“My goal is to go up the ladder, be successful and challenge the world champion, whoever it may be at the time.”

WILL ROSINSKY

“I know him because we sparred a lot. I know the adjustments I had to make we’re ready for because we were in front of each other but sometimes you just keep the same game plan.”

“On a week to week basis, I train in the day and work night or work in the day and train at night, depends. On a night tour I train in the morning then work the night tour, get off and go back to training. So, I might not be home for about a day and half. My commitment is 100 percent, it’s no problems at all.

“My goal is to fight for a world title. It’s a common goal in boxing. I want to make money and enjoy the fruits of my labor.

“This is an easy week, my weight is good. Being at 174 is not too heavy for me so I’m not really sucking to make weight last minute. I weighed out in the gym at 173½ yesterday so I am rehydrating up to 175/176 pretty easily.

“There are actually some similarities between fighting and being a firefighter because it’s a controlled chaos as they say. Same idea with the fight, you’re going crazy in your head but you’ve got to stay controlled and stay on your game plan. If your corner tells you something you’ve got to take that in and use it for the next round.”

JOE SMITH JR.

“Training camp has been going real great, done a lot of sparring and a lot of running. I feel great going into the fight, I feel in the best shape of my life and I’m ready to put on a good show.

“I don’t think there’s problems really that my opponent is going to present me with but I’m in the best shape of my life, so as long as I let my hands go there’s nothing that he can do.

“I’m a big puncher and I’m looking to throw a lot of hard punches and put on a good show.

“It’s a great opportunity, it feels good to be a part of something like this.

“I predict that there’s going to be a lot of punches thrown and most likely at some point in the fight I’m probably going to hurt Will and get him out of there.”

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.

NEW YORK (Dec. 2 2015) – In an excellent matchup between fighters in the prime of their careers, middleweight world champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs (30-1, 27 KOs) will take on undefeated former 160-pound world champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (32-0-1, 23 KOs) this Saturday, Dec, 5 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

So who will win the can’t miss, sure to be intense 12-round argument no one expects to be a blowout?

The result of the 28 media who participated in a SHOWTIME Prediction Poll favored Quillin by a 3-to-1 margin. Quillin, a former WBO Middleweight World Champion, was the selection of 21 experts, Jacobs, a winner of 10 straight by knockout and the current WBA Middleweight World Champion, the pick on 7.

Nineteen boxers, five of whom are world champions, gave their predictions and came up with a different conclusion than the writers. While some saw it as too close to call, those that did make predictions saw it for Jacobs, 8-5-2.

How the media and fighters see “JACOBS VS. QUILLIN”:

Tim Dahlberg, Associated Press, (Jacobs): “I like Jacobs in a tough fight, winning by a close decision. With Quillin’s power he might go down at some point in the fight, but I like Jacobs’ boxing IQ and skills to pull him to a close win.”

Kevin Iole, Yahoo Sports, (Quillin): “Peter Quillin by decision: This is one of those fights I literally just flipped a coin to pick. I like Jacobs’ range and I think he has faced better competition from top to bottom, but Quillin is an accurate puncher with good power and I think he will win a dogfight.”

Bob Velin, USA Today, (Jacobs):”While Quillin is bigger and a bigger puncher, Jacobs will outbox him. I just feel with all that Jacobs has been through in his life, he wants this more than Quillin. That will be the difference. Jacobs wins unanimous decision.”

Lance Pugmire, Los Angeles Times, (Quillin) “Peter Quillin has been working toward a victory like this for years. It’s time to put up or shut up and this test against a cerebral Daniel Jacobs will let us know once and for all if Quillin is elite or is entitled. Quillin by unanimous decision.”

Mark Jacobsen, New York Magazine, (Quillin): “Quillin will win. Jacobs has good name (minus two letters) but he is light in the resume. Quillin beat Andy Lee (note: split draw) and is gritty.”

Robert Morales, Los Angeles News Group, (Quillin): “I’m taking Peter Quillin to take Daniel Jacobs’ title via decision. Simply, I think Quillin is a better fighter and that his superior skills will bring him his second world title in this division. My only concern is Quillin making weight. But if he hasn’t struggled so much to do so, he’ll win.”

Brian Campbell, ESPN, (Quillin): “What makes this middleweight title fight so intriguing is both fighters still have questions to answer regarding whether they are truly elite. Both are athletic and powerful, and each has shown a certain level of vulnerability. Ultimately, I think Quillin has the stronger chin and that will be the difference. Quillin by KO.”

Damian Calhoun, Orange County (Calif.) Register, (Jacobs): “They’ve been calling each other out for years and now they’re finally going to meet in the ring. I expect this fight to be close. I can see both fighters getting tested and touching the canvas in this fight. In the end, I think Jacobs, with his overall boxing skills, will be able to do enough to edge Quillin for a unanimous decision victory. Should be a great fight.”

Lyle Fitzsimmons, CBSSports.com, (Quillin): “A hard fight not to like, between two fighters whose styles are appealing. There’s admittedly little to separate between the two, so in a close one I’ll go with the guy who’s had more big-stage opportunities — Quillin. He can hold his own in a technical match, and he’s got enough dog in him to grind through a tough one, too. Quillin by close decision.”

Kelsey McCarson, BleacherReport.com, (Quillin): “Kid Chocolate proved his ability as a boxer in his draw with Andy Lee, and there’s never been any question about his power. The combination of those two things, alongside his experience, will lead him to victory in a close and entertaining bout. Quillin by decision.”

Ricardo Lopez, La Opinion, (Jacobs): “I think Jacobs wins this one to extend his impressive 10-fight KO streak. He’s proven to be really strong, but it will be a close one.”

Andreas Hale, Ring Magazine, (Jacobs): “Danny Jacobs has been primed for greatness the moment he started his pro career. Never mind his loss to Dmitry Pirog, he wasn’t mentally in the game. Aside from that hiccup, he’s showcased remarkable skill and a knack for the finish. Quillin has been sharp, but hasn’t quite passed the eye test for me. His fight with Andy Lee was perhaps indicative of what happens when Quillin steps up in competition. With Jacobs being the more skilled of the two and on a mission to keep the judges out of the decision, I see him taking over late in a competitive fight where Jacobs slowly wears down Quillin en route to a late stoppage.”

Jake Donovan, BoxingScene.com, (Quillin):”Quillin can crack, but his finishing skills leave a lot to be desired. That said, Jacobs has yet to prove he can overcome in-ring adversity. Conquering cancer is braver than any battle he’ll ever experience in the ring … but as far as this fight goes, depending on him to box that cleanly for 12 rounds without getting caught clean is asking a lot. The ultimate wild card is whether or not Quillin can effectively make weight. Providing that he doesn’t struggle in that regard, my hunch is that he ends the fight at some point with one big punch to become a two-time middleweight titlist. Quillin wins by KO.”

Doug Fischer, RingTV.com/The Ring magazine, (Quillin), “I think Daniel Jacobs, the more polished boxer of the two middleweights, will outclass Peter Quillin over the first half of an intense boxing match. I believe Jacobs will use his sharper technique to catch Quillin between wide power volleys. He might drop Kid Chocolate early. But I think Quillin will gradually impose his greater size and strength on Jacobs. I think Quillin will catch and overwhelm Jacobs late in the fight to win by TKO”.

Mike Sloan, Sherdog.com, (Quillin): “This is such a terrific fight, one that can go either way. With so many variables being taken into account, with both Quillin’s and Jacobs’ skill sets, it’s actually a toss-up. Both men have terrific power, they both have great hand speed and they have taken on quality opposition. My gut initially told me that Quillin would come out on top but I’ve been flip-flopping ever since this fight was announced. With that said, I have to stick with my gut and go with Kid Chocolate via majority decision.”

Anson Wainwright, RingTV.com/RING magazine, (Quillin):”An excellent matchup for the middleweight championship of Brooklyn. I see this as 50-50. Both guys have very good power and are capable of hurting the other. I can see both on the canvas with Quillin doing enough to win a very good fight on points, with talks of a rematch afterwards.”

Joe Santoliquito, RingTV.com/Sherdog, (Quillin): “I like Quillin’s hand speed and punching power. I also feel he’s recently been in with better opposition, preparing him for fights like this. Quillin wins a decision.”

Miguel Maravilla, FightNews.com, (Quillin): “It will be a close fight but I give the edge to Quillin to win a decision.”

Percy Crawford, FightHype.com, (Quillin): “Quillin showed a lot of growth suffering his first blemish (draw against Andy Lee). He also handled being floored for the first time very well against a very dangerous Lee during that fight. I just don’t see Daniel Jacobs being able to put him in situations he can’t handle. Quillin comes on in the mid rounds and stops Jacobs by eighth-round TKO!”

Diego M. Morilla (XN Sports, RingTV.com), (Quillin): “It is a very close fight on paper, and it will live up to the expectations. Both fighters are equally skilled and both are proven at this weight, but in terms of resilience and power, the advantage goes to Quillin by a small but meaningful margin. Kid Chocolate is the one who has faced the strongest, most powerful opponents so far, and his results have been impressive for the most part. If Jacobs can establish his distance and his speed, he has a chance. But if Quillin is able to turn this into a fight he’ll score a decisive win by decision or late stoppage.”

Steve Lillis, Box Nation, (Quillin): “Great match and local bragging rights make it even sexier. I am edging towards Quillin who is more battle-hardened. Quillin by TKO 8.”

Eric Raskin, Boxing Writer/PBC Ringside Scorer (Quillin): “Jacobs has been one of the best feel-good stories in boxing over the last few years, but feel-good stories don’t win you tough fights. Quillin is the highest caliber opponent he’s faced since his upset loss to Dmitry Pirog, and I expect Kid Chocolate’s length and strength to separate him from Jacobs. Look for a fan-friendly, competitive fight, with Quillin winning by decision, roughly eight rounds to four.”

Brad Berkwitt, RingsiderReport.com, (Jacobs): “On paper, this is a great matchup and New York City, which has some of the greatest boxing fans in the world will love it! It’s really a tough fight in my book to call, but I’m going with Danny Jacobs by a tough close decision in the 115-113 range.”

John J. Raspanti, MaxBoxing.com, (Quillin); “I’m going with Quillin for two reasons: Talent and whiskers. Quillin has also been in with the better fighters during his time in the ring. He showed a strong chin against Andy Lee seven months ago. Cancer survivor Jacobs is a great guy, but looked vulnerable against Sergio Mora in his last fight. If the feather-fisted ‘Latin Snake’ can knock him down, Quillin, with 23 career KOs, can stop him. Quillin by TKO 9.”

James Slater, FightNews.com, (Quillin): “I like Quillin in a great fight. Jacobs is a class act, as is Quillin; I just think Quillin wants it more. Both can be hit, hurt and knocked down, and we will very possibly see a couple of knockdowns. I take Quillin to either get a points or a late stoppage win.”

Jason Gonzalez, Examiner.com, (Quillin): “I think Jacobs will eventually succumb to the pressure that Quillin will apply. Jacobs was knocked down early by and very light-hitting Sergio Mora. You would be remiss to not question the sturdiness of Jacob’s chin. Expect Quillin to test the chin of Jacobs early and win by TKO 7.”

Erika Fernandez, BlackSportsOnline.com, (Jacobs): “I think this will be a very close fight, but I feel that Jacobs has the better skill set and is hungrier for the victory. When you combine skill with hunger that is a deadly combination. I think it could go either way, but I am predicting Jacobs by eighth-round KO.”

Phil D. Jay, WorldBoxingNews.com, (Quillin): “I believe Jacobs v Quillin is a well-matched fight. Both can punch or box as and when needed so I see the fight being a close run thing. I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a split decision, but saying that, either fighter could also end the contest at a moment’s notice. Pushed on it, I’d have to give a slight edge to Quillin – but not without a scare or two. Quillin wins by split decision.”

(Boxers)

Chris Algieri, Former WBO Super Lightweight World Champion, (Quillin): “Tough fight to call. I believe whoever can assert their fight will ultimately take the victory. Danny needs to set a fast pace and box smart. Quillin will look to be explosive and bring the pressure. Too close to predict for me but will go with the more experienced man in Quillin to take it.”

Chris Arreola, Former Heavyweight Title Challenger, (Jacobs): “I think it’s a very good fight. I’m taking Jacobs in a very close fight. I just think Jacobs has more to prove and has had to overcome so much. I can’t wait to watch this fight!”

Andre Berto, Former WBC Welterweight World Champion, (No Pick): “Tough fight, it’s really a toss up. If it goes the distance I have Jacobs winning. If it doesn’t I have Quillin by knockout.”

Gabriel Bracero, Welterweight Contender from Brooklyn (Jacobs) – “I think they’re both good fighters and both strong. I think it’s going to come down to who’s smarter and whose sharper the night of the fight almost like an aggressive chess match the first person to make a mistake is going to pay.. I doubt that the fight goes the distance and they’re both going in there like they both have something to prove. I think Jacobs has more of an arsenal and will pull it off.”

Dominic Breazeale, 2012 U.S. Olympian & Undefeated Heavyweight, (Jacobs) – “My prediction is Danny Jacobs wins by way of KO in the 6 round. He’s a very humble, hard working man that deserves a great victory.”

Jermall Charlo, IBF Junior Middleweight World Champion, (Draw): “I hope the fight ends in a draw. I think it’s going to be a draw. Both guys are real strong and they both have good days and they both have bad days. But if someone wins, it will be whoever is in better shape.”

Anthony Dirrell, Former WBC Super Middleweight World Champion (Draw): “I hope it’s a draw, and I think it may be. Both fighters are my guys. Daniel and I went through similar health concerns that brought us closer, but Peter grew up in Grand Rapids. So I really just want to see a great fight and may the best man win. I know both guys respect each other and I hope that’ll always be the case.”

B.J. Flores, Cruiserweight Contender & NBC Boxing Analyst (No Pick): “This is a rough one. I really like Danny Jacobs’ boxing ability and his offensive tools and weapons. He has speed and power. The question is, if Danny is going to be able to stand there and take the hits from Pete when he lands. Whenever he does land, it will be interesting to see if Danny will come in with a game plan to neutralize Peter or if there is really going to be a battle of brooklyn head to head and fight thats the right fight for peter quillin not for danny jacobs. danny needs to take his opponent’s attributes and pete’s main thing he can do is punch, so the question is will Danny be able to take that away from Pete. It is a great opportunity for both and there can only be one king of the city.”

Tony Harrison, Super Welterweight Contender, (Jacobs): “I’m up in the air on this one, but I’m leaning towards Jacobs because he knows what adversity is and how to overcome it. He’s got nothing to los and he’s fighting in his hometown. He should have a chip on his shoulder.”

Amir Khan, Former Unified Super Lightweight World Champion, (Quillin): “I think Peter Quillin wins the fight. It’s a really exciting matchup between two guys fighting in their own backyard in Brooklyn. There is very little to choose between both fighters but if I had to opt for one guy it would be Quillin. I really respect Danny Jacob’s background and the way he has fought to become champion. He’s shown that he has the resilience, skill and punching power to go in and beat the best middleweights around but I think that Quillin is going to look to outwork him and use his movement to win a close points decision. Jacobs has the advantage in reach and height so that could cause Quillin problems especially if he gets his jab going and boxes from the outside. Nevertheless, it’s a really hard fight to call and there are arguments either way but there’s no doubt it’s going to be a great fight because neither guy will want to take a back step in their hometown.”

Erislandy Lara, WBA 154-Pound World Champion, (Quillin): “This is a great matchup between two young hungry fighters and I think it’s going to be a very close fight. With that being said, I’m picking ‘Kid Chocolate’ to win. He’s got Cuban blood running through his veins and has fought better competition. I’ll also be watching very closely because the winner could be one of my future opponents.”

Andy Lee, WBO Middleweight World Champion (No Pick): “I think it’s a close fight. Danny probably has the better boxing fundamentals and will look to outbox Peter. But Peter is certainly the bigger puncher and will look to land heavy punches while boxing with Danny. It’s an exciting fight hard and a hard one to call.”

Aron Martinez, Welterweight Contender, (Jacobs) – “I’ll go with Jacobs by decision. It will be a great fight though I could really see it going either way.”

Sergio Mora, Former WBC Super Welterweight World Champion, (Quillin) – “Both Jacobs & Quillin are big punchers with flawed technique. In the battle of power punching, Quillin’s size & better chin will hold up better, but If Jacobs decides to box & move I can see him outpointing Quillin. It’ll be a close fight either way. I’m picking Quillin by late stoppage.”

Victor Ortiz, Former WBC Welterweight World Champion, (No Pick): “May the best man win. It’s a great fight. Blue corner and red corner. My prediction is that one of those corners is going to win.”

Edwin Rodriguez, IBF No. 10 Light Heavyweight Contender, (Jacobs): “”Jacobs is a better boxer and just as good of a puncher as Quillin with sharper technical skills. It should be an entertaining fight but Jacobs will win by unanimous decision.”

Leo Santa Cruz, WBA Super World Featherweight Champion, (Quillin): “It’s going to be a hard fight for both of them, but Peter Quillin is stronger and he’s never been hurt, so I think he might take it. Quillin by seventh-round KO.”

Keith Thurman, WBA Welterweight World Champion, (Jacobs): “Knowing Jacobs and his amateur background I believe that he has the skills and the knowledge to pull away the victory, but Quillin is no slouch. He has tremendous strength and the ability to stop or hurt Danny at any moment. I’m truly looking forward to this fight. This is another great matchup for the fight fans this year.”

Sammy Vasquez, Undefeated Welterweight Contender, (Jacobs) – “This can go either way. Both have power and are good fighters with two different styles as Peter just comes forward but yet stays mid range and is good at it, Danny moves a lot and has good angles, I would give Danny the edge for his movement but he needs to stay busy and hopefully he doesn’t run into any punches but it’s a toss up to me.”

# # #

The first live fight is at 4:30 p.m. ET. Tickets start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com,www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

In a top undercard, non-televised match, undefeated Brooklyn female star and boxing sensation, Heather “The First Lady” Hardy (14-0) meets Noemi Bosques (10-3-2, 2 KO’s) in an eight-round super bantamweight rematch.

Preceding the Jacobs-Quillin all-Brooklyn battle on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING, exciting, hard-hitting WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar (27-1, 21 KOs), of Buenos Aires, Argentina, will defend against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (26-4, 16 KOs) in the 12-round semi-main.

On SHOWTIME EXTREME (7 p.m. ET/PT), popular former world champion and Long Island-native Chris Algieri (20-2, 8 KOs) will be opposed by Ecuador’s Erick Bone (16-2, 8 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight bout, and promising undefeated Staten Island light heavyweight Marcus Browne faces Francisco Sierra (27-9-1, 24 KOs) of Tepic, Mexico, in an eight-rounder.

Daniel Jacobs vs. Peter Quillin is a 12-round middleweight championship fight taking place Saturday, December 5 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® co-feature, WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar will face exciting Puerto Rican contender Jonathan Oquendo. The event is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. The Algieri vs. Bone and Rosinksy vs. Smith Jr. fights are promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @StarBoxing, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.

NEW YORK (Nov. 23, 2015) – SHOWTIME Sports® will televise the 10-round welterweight matchup between former world champion and Long Island-native Chris Algieri (20-2, 8 KOs) and Ecuador’s Erick Bone (16-2, 8 KOs) on SHOWTIME BOXING ON SHO EXTREME, Saturday, Dec. 5, live at 7 p.m. ET/PT from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

In the opening bout on SHO EXTREME, undefeated rising star and 2012 U.S. Olympian Marcus Browne (16-0, 12 KOs), of Staten Island, will take on experienced veteran Francisco Sierra (27-9-1, 24 KOs).

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME with WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar (27-1, 21 KOs) defending his belt against exciting Puerto Rican contender Jonathan Oquendo (26-4, 16 KOs).

It all leads to the #BattleForBrooklyn when WBA Middleweight World Champion Daniel Jacobs (30-1, 27 KOs) defends his belt against undefeated former champion Peter Quillin (32-0-1, 23 KOs). Winner takes the belt and Brooklyn.

Tickets for the live event start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. The event is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. The Algieri vs. Bone and Rosinksy vs. Smith Jr. fights are promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @JesusCuellarBOX , @jonathanoquen; @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter

BROOKLYN (Nov. 17, 2015) – WBA Middleweight World Champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs, former world champion Yuri Foreman and undefeated super bantamweight contender Heather “The Heat” Hardy hosted a media workout Tuesday at Gleason’s Gym in their hometown of Brooklyn as they prepare for their respective battles on Saturday, Dec. 5 at Barclays Center.

Jacobs will defend his title against undefeated former champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® main event with televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. In the co-feature, WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar (27-1, 21 KOs) will face exciting Puerto Rican contender Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (26-4, 16 KOs).

“ALL ACCESS: Jacobs vs. Quillin,” which chronicles the buildup to the all-Brooklyn showdown, premieres TONIGHT at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME. This clip features Jacobs as he watches The Approaching Storm marching band rehearse his ring walk music at the Brownsville Recreational Center: http://s.sho.com/1H7jcVC

As part of an undercard stacked with top NYC talent, Hardy will take on Noemi Bosques in an eight-round super bantamweight rematch of Hardy’s split decision victory over Bosques in May. Foreman returns to the ring after taking time off from boxing to become an ordained rabbi and will compete in an eight-round super welterweight contest.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday:

DANIEL JACOBS

“I think my skills are an advantage. Skills pay the bills. At the end of the day I have a lot of skills over ‘Kid Chocolate.’ Speed is one. He’s probably a bigger puncher and naturally heavier. With all that power, he has to get to me. He has to be able to land those shots.

“I’m going to adjust. I love knockouts. If I can end it with a knockout that’s what I’ll do. But I have to use my skills and my advantages.

“Quillin made weight in his last fight and he has a new strength coach so hopefully he makes weight for this one. I want him to be 110 percent so there are no excuses and we can give the fans a great fight.

“I’m at about 170 pounds right now, so I have 10 pounds to go. It’s mostly water so it’ll go quickly and we’ll be good by fight night.

“Time is the biggest experience you can have. It was almost all taken away from me. Mentally, I’m there. Physically, I’m there. It’s my time and I just have to be ready Dec. 5.

“I’ve been based out in Long Island and Brooklyn for training camp. I get to see Brooklyn every day. I’m in the streets and in-tuned with the people. Being from here means even more to me.

“It’s going to be an excellent, fan-friendly fight. I’ve heard lots of different opinions about who is going to win, and I like that. At the end of the day, it’s about us proving who will be the victor.

“I’ve been campaigning for this fight for a long time. I haven’t thought about who I want to go after if I win but I’m going to fight the best and work my way to being the best in the division.”

YURI FOREMAN

“Boxing is a very spiritual sport. We all have different paths. My faith keeps me centered and focused. You can be anyone. You can be a rabbi and still be fighting on the big stage at Barclays Center.

“It’s the same routine, (I’ve been) working hard since June and putting in a lot of hours in the gym. In terms of preparation, I’m always trying to push myself. When I get tired, I want to push myself even harder.

“As soon as you take it easy on yourself, that’s when you have a problem. Especially in boxing. I’ve never taken any shortcuts. If you take shortcuts in this sport you’re going to get hurt.

“Every single boxer is different as they progress, so I don’t focus on one look that a guy could give me. I focus on myself and work to be the best Yuri Foreman I can be.

“It’s very special to be fighting at Barclays Center because this is my home and I actually live just blocks away from the arena. I’m honored to be around so many great fighters who are on this card. Everyone can come together under one roof to watch a great sport.

“I’m staying positive about Dec. 5. I can’t predict because it’s boxing and anything can happen. It only takes one shot. I’m envisioning a successful night and an impressive victory for myself.”

HEATHER HARDY

“Holly Holm didn’t prove that Ronda Rousey couldn’t fight, because Ronda is a good fighter. She just proved that there are lots of good female fighters. There are good female fighters everywhere and hopefully we’ll get the recognition that there is a large pool of female athletes that are not recognized.

“It was a great fight last time. We have fan friendly styles and we gave them a show. She has a great presence in the ring so I’m happy to give her a rematch.

“I feel like I have to make a statement every time I go out there just to prove that women belong in the ring. It’s always a fight to prove that we belong. There are so many good female fighters out there.

“Brooklyn boxing has been so good to me and I’m so honored to be able to fight at Barclays Center. As soon as Quillin won that fight in December I started asking Lou DiBella to put me on the card and now we’re here.

“I think the main event is going to be a great fight. I can’t pick a winner. You can never count out a champion. A champion has a great heart and the fight can turn at any moment.”

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.