PROVIDENCE (March 4, 2015) – Undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (21-0, 14 KOs) has challenged World Boxing Association titlist Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara (20-2-2, 12 KOs) to a unification title fight in April or May.

Andrade, the 2008 U.S. Olympian and 2007 World Amateur Championships gold medalist, and three-time Cuban National amateur champion Lara have traded barbs through the media this week.

Andrade says Lara has been running from him, while Lara claimed he’s not worried about fighting the gifted New Englander, calling him a “spoiled brat”.

In a statement, Lara said Andrade turned down an ESPN2 fight with him and that he “whooped that ass for free in the amateurs.” Lara also questioned who, in comparison, Andrade has fought. He also said Andrade pulled out of the biggest fight of his career against Lara’s stablemate, Jermell Charlo, implying that Andrade reneged on a signed contract.

For the record, Lara defeated Andrade in the 2007 Pan-Am Qualifier, 9-4, in a match held in Venezuela, however, Andrade’s manager Ed Farris was quick to add, “First of all, when did Lara ever whoop Demetrius’ ass? Does Lara mean in the amateurs when he ran away from him for three rounds? Their five-year age difference was significant in the amateurs because Demetrius was still a teenager and, even then, Lara needed overseas judges to steal that decision. Lara landed something like nine total punches during the entire fight. If that’s an ass kicking, well, count us in!”

Farris also added that the fight between Lara and Andrade should be easy to make. “Only a few days ago,” Farris noted, “Lara mentioned that he was willing to fight Demetrius in the past for only $15,000. So, I’m sure HBO or Showtime will gladly accommodate his request.”

Andrade captured the vacant WBO title November 9, 2013 by way of a 12-round decision over previously unbeaten Vanes Martirosyan (33-0-1), the same fighter Lara struggled with in a nine-round draw. Andrade’s most recent fight was last June in his first title defense against mandatory challenger Brian Rose (25-1-1), in which Andrade looked sensational in a seventh-round knockout of the Brit.

Point-by-point, Andrade countered Lara’s erroneous allegations and unsubstantiated claims. “When was this imaginary fight offer two years ago on ESPN,” Andrade asked rhetorically. “You and I both know that never happened, Lara. I sure as hell never saw any offer to fight Lara on ESPN. Who have I fought? I only need to mention one name: I beat Vanes Martirosyan, the guy Lara couldn’t beat! Lara was lucky enough to get a draw because he RAN around the ring for the first half of the fight instead of fighting. But, hey, that’s what Lara does. Just ask ‘Canelo’ (Alvarez) and boxing fans who watched their fight.

“Lara said anytime, anywhere. How about April or May if he needs more time to hit the track and get extra laps in? One more thing, Lara, I have NEVER walked away from a signed contract. EVER! You probably never stopped running around long enough to even know that. The only contract I ever signed to fight Charlo was a month ago and Charlo declined. Lara said I signed a contract to fight Charlo before that. If he can show me an agreement that I signed to fight Charlo on December 13th, I promise to stop calling him out. Lara, you can run – everybody knows you do — but you can’t hide. We have unfinished business to take care of.”

Lara’s powerful adviser, Al Haymon, has a slew of television dates, including April 18 on Showtime in Carson, California. Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. faces Andrjej Fonfara in the main event but a co-main event hasn’t been announced.

“Lara will not be able to handle Demetrius’ size and strength,” Farris remarked, “and sooner or later Demetrius will catch him. The only time Lara stood and fought, he got his ass handed to him by (Alfredo) Angulo. The ONLY reason he got out of that fight alive is because Angulo suffered an eye injury at the end. Otherwise, Lara was headed to the canvas again for a third time and anyone that saw that fight knows it.”

Follow Demetrius Andrade on Twitter @BooBooBoxing.

Providence, RI (March 3, 2015)–The following is a response to WBA Super Welterweight champion Erislandy Lara from Paul Andrade, the father/trainer of undefeated WBO Jr. Middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade:

Dear Mr. Erislandy Lara:

In response to your comments, whoever wrote your response should get their facts correct.

When we listen to you, we see the final triumph of stupidity in this world. You are the only boxer that successfully brainwashed himself with false facts.

We were never in our life offered a fight on ESPN 2 to fight you. In fact, when I met you in that restaurant in New York, we even said that Demetrius would let his career develop and fight you for much more meaningful amount than $15,000. When was the last time you fought for $15,000? And you agreed with me.

Now the time is here for us to get together but all you talk about is a meaningless fight in a foreign country that you by just four points when Demetrius was just 17 and you were 21. On top of that, you know when an American goes to a foreign country his opponent always gets an extra five points. We saw it at the Pan Am Games, in the Olympics and whenever we have fought on foreign soil.

After seeing Demetrius talent level, you decided going to the Olympics would have been a failed effort and decided to turn pro.

As we all know, many times guys who have been beaten by an individual in the amateurs come back and open up a can of whoop ass when they fight as professionals.

I see you posted your long list of accomplishments, we all are fighters in development when we start but you claim we have not fought anybody and you have.

The only opponent that we have in common is Vanes Martirosyan. We have the utmost respect for him and the best you can do was pull out a draw. I guess you were happy that headbutt occurred because Vanes was on his way to knocking you out. Then comes Angulo. The moment he trapped you, he dropped you twice and again then you escaped because of a lucky thumb that swelled up Angulo’s eye. How many times will luck be on your side?

Now it is time for you to man up and take the challenge. Forget the cheap talk, do you want to get it on? Yes or No? A real man and a real champion would answer yes.

Sincerely,

Paul Andrade

HOUSTON, TX (March 2, 2015) – WBA Champion, Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara, responds to WBO Champion Demetrius Andrade’s claims that he’s not interested in a unification fight with him.

“I’ll fight him anytime! My resume speaks for itself. I’m willing to fight Cotto or GGG next…you think I’m worried about this little spoiled brat? Look at my resume of great fighters I’ve fought, Williams, Molina, Vanes, Trout, Canelo, Angulo and now Smith. In 24 fights, who has he fought?”

Lara went on to say about Andrade latest drama about pulling out if his last scheduled fight…

“I’m the best in the division. If I put my name to a contract I show up and fight, unlike him when he pulled out of the biggest fight of his career against Charlo. Not to mention, he turned down a fight with me on ESPN2 years ago when I was willing to whoop to put a beating on him for $15.000. And don’t forget, I already whooped that ass for free in the amateurs!!! His nickname serves him right…He’s Poo Poo!”

Providence, RI (March 2, 2015)–After WBO number-one ranked Jr. Middleweight, Jermell Charlo decided to not fight fight WBO Jr. Middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade, Andrade’s father/trainer Paul has turned his attention to a fight with WBA belt holder Erislandy Lara.

“We signed a contract to fight Charlo a month ago,” said Paul Andrade. “He opted to fight a guy that we beat already in Vanes Martiroysan. I don’t even think Charlo will beat him. I can see Vanes out bullying him and win a decision about eight rounds to four.”

“That’s in the past and now we have to look towards the future.”

That future hopefully includes Lara.

“The real fight for us is with Lara. Fighting Charlo would not have done much for us anyway. That would have been like a man fighting a boy.”

“We are calling Lara out but he has had no response. He doesn’t have a dance partner, so the time is right for both of us.”

Andrade believes turn about is fair play for the Cuban as he talked his way into a fight with Canelo Alvarez last year and now it’s time for him to be on the receiving end of somebody ready, willing and able to fight him.

“Lara thought he was cute by calling out Canelo by going to his press conference. He and trying to embarrass him and goad Canelo into a fight. Lara is now in that position. We would go to one of your press conferences and embarrass you but you don’t even have a fight on the table, so there is no press conference for you.”

“Why don’t you step up like Canelo and be a man and accept our challenge like Canelo did for you.”

“I guess it’s not so cute for him anymore. And if you do step to the plate, you can bring your running shoes because you are a better runner then boxer.”

Said Arthur Pelullo of Banner Promotions, co-promoter of Andrade, “This is a fight that Demetrius wants. Last year he wanted wanted a fight with Canelo. Canelo had and has other plans now so why not fight the man who some people believe beat him in Lara.”

“We feel Demetrius is the best jr. middleweight in the world and the way to prove that is to fight the best. Erislandy Lara has proven to be at the top of the division. This is the type of fight that will show the boxing world that Demetrius is a star.”, said co-promoter, Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing.

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LAS VEGAS (Oct. 31, 2014) – The stars of boxing’s present and future will be out in full force at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, Dec. 13, when Golden Boy Promotions in association with Khan Promotions and The Great Promotions present a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader featuring a pivotal welterweight showdown and two world championship fights, live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

In a pair of must-see, high-stakes welterweight matchups, British superstar and former unified super lightweight world champion Amir “King” Khan of Bolton, Englandwill take onformer two-division world champion Devon Alexander “The Great” of St. Louis, Mo., while undefeated interim WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman of Clearwater, Fla., will defend against Leonard “The Lion” Bundu of Lazio, Italy.

Rounding out an action-packed night on the three-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will be WBO Junior Middleweight World Champion and 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade of Providence, R.I., who risks his 154-pound belt against tough undefeated young star Jermell “Iron Man” Charlo of Houston, Texas. Charlo will make his first attempt at world title glory in a battle of unbeaten junior middleweights.

Featured on the undercard will be two separate 10-round bouts featuring former three-time, three-division world champion Abner Mares and former welterweight world champion “Vicious” Victor Ortiz. Mares, who will fight in a featherweight bout against an opponent to be determined, will look to build on his recent victory over Jonathan Oquendo. Ortiz is looking to make a comeback statement in a welterweight bout against an opponent to be named.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are priced at $300, $200, $100, and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes. Tickets are limited to eight (8) per person with a limit of four (4) at the $50 price range. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

“Getting back in the ring is all I’ve been looking towards these last few months,” said Khan. “I want to show everybody that I’m a major force at 147 pounds and I’m ready to take on the best. This fight with Alexander has been on the table for a while, but it is finally happening and I plan on winning impressively to show that I am truly one of the best welterweights in the world.”

“I’ve wanted this fight for a long time and I’m ready to show that I’m worthy of this opportunity and the opportunities ahead after I win on Dec. 13,” said Alexander. “I’ve worked hard my entire life and now the pressure is on to really show what I can do.”

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and defend my title,” said Thurman. “I’m going to give all my fans the performance of a lifetime and prove why my name should be at the top of the welterweight conversation.”

“December 13 is going to be the biggest night of my professional career thus far,” said Bundu. “To be fighting in the United States, in the fight capital of the world — Las Vegas on SHOWTIME against one of the most promising American prospects is a dream come true. But Keith Thurman doesn’t scare me. I know that I have what it takes to win and truly make a name for myself throughout the boxing world.”

“There is no way I’m letting go of my belt,” said Andrade. “Jermell Charlo is a good fighter, but nothing is going to stop me from defending my belt and raising my hand in victory on Dec. 13. I am confident that this will be a fight fans won’t want to miss.”

“I am beyond excited to finally get a shot at a world title,” said Charlo. “This is what I’ve been waiting for. I’m ready to be a world champion. Nothing is going to stand in my way. Andrade is the champion and I’m not looking past him at all, but this is my time. I know it. The title will lead to bigger and better things and that is what I’m all about.”

“I am so happy to be back at MGM Grand after my recent win in July,” said Mares. “My ultimate goal is another shot at a world championship and a win on December 13 will help me get there. I plan on putting on a great performance and showcasing my skills once again.”

“I’m excited to get back into the ring,” said Ortiz. “I got caught in my last fight, but I’m ready to get back to work and improve my game. I know what it takes to win and that is what I plan on doing on December 13. I’m thankful for the opportunity and looking forward to giving fans a great show.”

“A huge main event with two former champions looking to take a major step back towards a title shot; undefeated fighters going head-to-head on the undercard; our last big show of the year -Dec. 13 at MGM Grand will have it all,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions. “Golden Boy Promotions is finishing 2014 strong and will move into 2015 continuing to make good on our promise to make the most exciting fights for boxing fans.”

“The Dec. 13 edition of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING delivers on our promise to televise stacked fight cards featuring big name fighters in meaningful fights,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports. “The main event, Amir Khan versus Devon Alexander, is a matchup between two renowned former world champions, each at a critical juncture in his career. In the co-feature, Keith Thurman, one of the brightest young stars in boxing, faces perhaps his toughest test to date in the highly regarded and undefeated Leonard Bundu, as each boxer battles for position in the ultra-competitive welterweight division. The opening bout on the telecast features two very talented undefeated rising stars, champion Demetrius Andrade and No. 2-ranked challenger Jermell Charlo. Each fight on the telecast will have a significant impact on the top-10 divisional rankings.”

Khan(29-3, 19 KOs), a 2004 Olympic Silver medalist who turns 28 on Dec. 8, has won his last three contests, all against former world champions. In his most recent outing, he scored three knockdowns en route to a lopsided 12-round decision victory over Luis Collazo in the co-main event on May 3. Before that, the popular, lightning-quick Brit defeated Julio Diaz via unanimous decision in April of 2013 and Carlos Molina in Dec. of 2012. A victory against Alexander would put Khan in a position to become a two-division world champion in 2015.

The 27-year-old southpaw Alexander (26-2, 14 KOs), is a former welterweight and junior welterweight world champion and is coming off of a 10-round unanimous decision over the tough Jesus Soto Karass last June. Fighting with a newfound passion and aggressiveness, Alexander was victorious by the scores of 99-91 twice and 97-93. A winner of five of his last six bouts, a stretch that has seen him defeat the likes of Lucas Matthysse and Marcos Maidana, Alexander believes that his technical artistry will put him back in the world title hunt soon.

Thurman (23-0, 21 KOs) has always been feared for his knockout power, but when he won the WBA Interim Welterweight World Title with a 10th round knockout over Diego Chaves in July of 2013, he was put in a position where the elite of the fight game would have to square off with him eventually. The 25-year-old Thurman has since made two successful title defenses with knockouts over Jesus Soto Karass and Julio Diaz, and he will attempt to achieve the same result against Bundu.

Bundu(31-0-2, 11 KOs), who represented Italy in the 2000 Olympic Games, is making his United States and SHOWTIME debut. The European and Commonwealth Champion, is coming off a hard-earned 12-round decision over previously undefeated contender Frankie Gavin on Aug. 1. Bundu was born in Sierra Leone before moving to Italy, where he has fought the majority of his fights since turning pro in 2005. He is ranked No. 3 in the WBC and No, 4 in the WBA and IBF.

A decorated amateur, Providence, Rhode Island’s Andrade (21-0, 14 KOs) turned professional in 2008 after representing the U.S. in the Olympic Games in Beijing. In November of 2013, the talented southpaw won the vacant WBO Junior Middleweight World Title with a 12-round decision over Vanes Martirosyan and this past June, the 26-year-old successfully defended his title for the first time with a seventh-round technical knockout over Brian Rose.

Charlo (24-0, 11 KOs), 24, is the younger-by-one-minute brother of identical twin, Jermall, who is also a world-ranked undefeated contender at 154 pounds. A tall fighter for his division, Charlo has stepped up in class in some recent fights and is coming off two consecutive terrific points’ victories against Charlie Ota in a 12-round fight on May 24 and against Gabriel Rosado in a 10-round battle on Jan. 25. Charlo, also a top-notch amateur, won the bronze medal at the 2005 Junior Olympics. December 13 marks a milestone in Charlo’s career as he will do everything he can to capture his first world title.

Mares (27-1-1, 14 KOs) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, and fighting out of Downey, Calif. is coming off of a unanimous decision victory over Johnathan Oquendo at MGM Grand in July. Prior to his impressive win, Mares suffered the first loss of his professional career to the hands of Johnny Gonzalez, but has since bounced back and is ready to fight. Mares found himself on the pound-for-pound list in 2013 after winning the WBC Featherweight title, adding to his accomplishments as he already held world championships at bantamweight and super bantamweight.

Ortiz (29-5, 22 KOs) is ready to show the boxing world that he still has what it takes to be great. The 27-year-old Ventura, Calif. native has made headlines in and out of the ring, not only as a fighter, but also an entertainer. A former welterweight world champion who has engaged in memorable battles against the best in the boxing business including Floyd Mayweather, Marcos Maidana, Andre Berto and Josesito Lopez. He has also crossed over into the bright lights of Hollywood as a member of the cast of ABC’s hit series “Dancing With The Stars” and most recently as part of the film “Expendables 3.” Now Ortiz will return to the ring for the first time since his knockout loss against Luis Collazo in January and looks to show the boxing world he’s serious about another run at a world title.

“Royal Battle: Khan vs. Alexander,” a 12-round welterweight bout for the WBC Silver Welterweight Title, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Khan Promotions and The Great Promotions and is sponsored by Corona Extra, AT&T and Mexico – Live It To Believe It! The event will take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nev. and will air on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). In the co-main event, Keith Thurman defends his WBA Interim Welterweight World Title against Leonard Bundu, and in the televised opener, Demetrius Andrade defends his WBO Junior Middleweight World Title against Jermell Charlo in a bout promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and Banner Promotions. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will also be available in Spanish via secondary audio programming (SAP).

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.sports.sho.com, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @SHOSports, @AmirKingKhan, @TheRealDevonA, @KeithThurmanJr, @LeonardBundu, @boobooboxing, @TwinCharlo, @abnermares00, @viciousortiz, @MGMGrand and @Swanson_Comm follow the conversation using #KhanAlexander, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and www.facebook.com/SHOBoxing, or visit SHOWTIME Boxing Blog at http://theboxingblog.sho.com/.

PROVIDENCE (September 18, 2014) – Undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (21-0, 14 KOs) and his team are patiently waiting to hear about his next fight.

Negotiations are ongoing between Andrade’s co-promoters, Banner Promotions and Star Boxing, with Top Rank and HBO officials regarding a potential fight for a vacant WBO middleweight title fight against No. 1 contender and unbeaten Russian Olympian, Matt Korobov.

Andrade was also mentioned by Golden Boy Promotions president Oscar de la Hoya as one of three potential candidates to fight junior middleweight Saul “Canelo” Alvarez.

“We want to thank all of loyal fans for their support,” Andrade’s head trainer and father Paul Andrade said. “They are the only ones who understand how our backs have been put against the wall. Everybody in boxing seemed to react to the news about Demetrius fighting Korobov for the vacant 160-pound WBO title. I’d like to get the facts straight. We were not aware of that fight, nor were we aware of the petition to the WBO to move up to fight for its middleweight title. I spoke to Artie Pelullo (Banner Promotions), who informed me that an opportunity had popped up, and that he wanted to beat (Bob) Arum (Top Rank) to the punch. He couldn’t get a hold of us in advance but he has left us an option to take a fight.

“Demetrius is a warrior and we don’t walk away from good fights. As a matter of fact, we run towards fights others run away from. We will accept the fight against Korobov, provided Demetrius is paid at least the bare minimum, according to his contract. Negotiations are going on right now. It’s a shame that two days after the WBO selected Demetrius to fight Korobov for the middleweight title, the top 154-pounders came out of the woodwork to start making fights. I guess real men are in the middleweight division. It looks like ‘Canelo’ is going to fight Joshua Clottey, (James) Kirkland is fighting (Gabriel) Rosado. Nobody at 154 pounds would step-up and to challenge Demetrius for his WBO title belt.”

Andrade was particularly upset with Oscar de la Hoya for using Andrade by announcing he was one of three candidates to fight Alvarez. “No disrespect to Clottey, who was a great 140 and 147-pounder, but which fight would the people paying for tickets like to see: Alvarez vs. Andrade or Alvarez vs. Clottey,” Andrade asked rhetorically. “I guess ‘Canelo’ isn’t interested in trying to regain a 154-pound world title belt. I want to let everyone know that we’re still open to fighting ‘Canelo’ if he is willing to step-up to fight Andrade. He wants a soft fight to set-up a mega-fight with (Miguel) Cotto. Demetrius is too high risk for the top 154-pounders to fight. It’s like pushing a rock uphill. Oscar never should have said Demetrius was on the short list to fight ‘Canelo’ because he didn’t mean it. We’re not letting them off the hook, though. We haven’t signed to move up to 160 yet and we’re open to fighting ‘Canelo’ at any given time. And if ‘Canelo’-Clottey is made, it’s only going to be just one more disappointing night of boxing for fans. ”

Andrade remains baffled about why some of the top junior middleweights have avoided his son like the plague. “The closer we run to them, the faster they run away from us,” Andrade continued. “It’s like trying to put two magnets together from opposite ends. I guess a world title fight doesn’t mean much to them.

“In the past, we were criticized about opponents we fought, but that was when Demetrius was a fighter in development. School is out, we’ve graduated. We’re willing and able to take on all challengers for Demetrius’ 154-pound world title belt. Why aren’t these guys criticized for not taking a fight with Demetrius?”

Follow Demetrius Andrade on Twitter @BooBooBoxing.

Philadelphia (September 10, 2014)– In recent weeks, Former Jr. Middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez (44-1-1, 31 KO’s) and his team at Golden Boy Promotions have been going over potential opponents for Canelo’s expected return to the ring this fall.

Three names that are allegedly on a short list include undefeated current WBO Jr. Middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade (21-0, 14 KO’s), former Welterweight champion Joshua Clottey and James Kirkland.

But according to Andrade’s father and trainer Paul Andrade, no formal talks have ever taken place and Andrade went on to say he feels that inclusion of Demetrius name is only to bolster Canelo.

“I was totally surprised when I saw the article mentioning Demetrius as a possible opponent,”said Paul Andrade.

“I saw (Alvarez promoter) Oscar De La Hoya at the Shawn Porter – Kell Brook weigh-in and he shook my hand. I asked him about a fight with Canelo and Demetrius . He said he we would have to wait in line for about 2 years. He then gave me a story that when he was in High School that if a girl was interested in him, that they would have to wait two years to date him.”

Andrade then thought the fight was a dead issue until he saw some reports on the internet that Demetrius was one of the fighters in line to face Canelo.

“Three weeks later, I read that we are on the short list. I never realized that two years went by that quick. Judging by the list, I feel the only reason we are included is that it makes Canelo look good. Three weeks earlier, Oscar said that they had no intention to fight us.”

“Undefeated world champions do not go on a short list.”

Andrade went on to wonder how his son got on that list as he has not heard of any negotiations between the two camps.

“I understand that they have negotiated with both Clottey and Kirkland but they have not negotiated with us. That proves that he does not want to fight us right now.”

“I would appreciate if does not mention our name unless he is ready to say that I will fight Andrade.”

“It’s time for him to put up or shut up. By mentioning us, Oscar is trying to develop Canelo’s next opponent but it seems like they are going back to their old ways by fighting blown up Welterweights. I have a lot of respect for Clottey and Kirkland but Oscar can’t just throw our name in the mix so Canelo can look good. Demetrius is an undefeated titleholder. Canelo claims he wants to fight the best, well we are undefeated and the best Jr. Middleweight in the world.”

“The fans aren’t stupid. I wish Oscar should let them pick Canelo’s next opponent. Unfortunately Oscar isn’t stupid because he knows Demetrius would be too much for Canelo and our fans would agree with us. ”

Andrade is promoted by Banner Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Philadelphia (September 10, 2014)– The World Boxing Organization ordered a bout between Jr. Middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade (21-0, 14 KO’s) and Matt Korobov (24-0, 14 KO’s) to fight for the vacant Middleweight championship.

“We are very happy and delighted that the WBO has given Demetrius Andrade this great opportunity to fight for the Middleweight world title,” said Banner Promotions CEO Artie Pelullo.

“It’s a great opportunity for Demetrius to become a two-division world champion. Matt Korobov and Demetrius Andrade were both 2007 world amateur champions & 2008 Olympians. Demetrius from the United States and Korobov from Russia. As professionals they are both undefeated and their paths will finally cross.”

“My partner Joe DeGuardia and I will get on the phone and call Bob Arum, who promotes Korobov and try to make this fight happen this Fall.”

“I am pleased that the WBO has granted Demetrius the opportunity to add another World Championship to his impressive accomplishments. We hope and expect that this will be the second of many more Championships that he will acquire”, said Star Boxing CEO Joe DeGuardia

“I would like to thank the WBO for having faith in us and giving us the opportunity,” said Andrade’s father/trainer Paul Andrade.

According to Dan Rafael, Canelo Alvarez has narrowed his search for a fall opponent to James Kirkland, Joshua Clottey and WBO Jr. Middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“I am piecing things together for Canelo, connecting the dots, but he’s going to fight Dec. 6. That’s the definite date,” said Alvarez promoter Oscar De La Hoya.

“We’ve been doing all our business with Showtime since a few years ago when we were kicked out from HBO,” De La Hoya said. “Yes, we are doing this fight with Hopkins on HBO and it’s a great way to start a relationship again, but I also have to take a look the relationship we have with Showtime. It’s a very difficult spot, but I am going to do what is best for Canelo’s career.

“We’re pushing for San Antonio. Canelo really loves fighting at the Alamodome. He had a wonderful experience there,” De La Hoya said.

“Clottey looked good against Mundine and we’ve been talking with Kirkland’s representative day in and day out,” De La Hoya said. “If Canelo fights Andrade, it’s a chance for him to fight for another title if that’s what he wants to do. There are options.

“If you think about Canelo, he’s a throwback fighter. He fought Mayweather, Trout, Lara. Name another fighter in recent years that’s been fighting the toughest guys back to back. Canelo wants to fight the best. This is why people love Canelo. He is willing to fight all comers.”

“I commend Canelo. He wanted to fight three times on pay-per-view, but Canelo called me directly and said he didn’t want to fight on pay-per-view this time,” De La Hoya said. “He did good numbers in his last two fights but he wants all boxing fans to be able to see him.

Philadelphia (July 16, 2014)– After a successful trip of the United Kingdom, WBO Jr. Middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (21-0, 14 KO’s) wants to make it clear that he is the man to beat at 154 pounds and wants Canelo Alvarez and his promoter Oscar De La Hoya to know that he would be interested in facing the Mexican star in a fall bout.

“I read some comments that Oscar made to Lara after the fight that there is a line about 10 people deep to fight Canelo and Lara would have to get to the back of it. What Oscar failed to mention is that line forms behind me.”, said the undefeated champion.

“I am the WBO champion and I am undefeated. As I look down the rankings, I just defeated my mandatory Brian Rose and Alvarez is ranked number-two by the WBO. He will be elevated to number-one and I am ready and willing to fight him for my title. I just hope he would be prepared for the beating I will put on him.”

Andrade is promoted by Banner Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing

Philadelphia (July 11, 2014)– Fresh off his recent 7th round stoppage over Brian Rose on June 14 in Brooklyn, WBO Jr. Middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade (21-0, 14 KO’s) is in Liverpool, England this week as he is accompanying Vladine Biosse as he takes on undefeated prospect Callum Smith.

Andrade’s father/trainer Paul trains Biosse.

Andrade has gained lots of popularity in the United Kingdom following his win over Englishman Rose.

Andrade, who is promoted by Banner Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing has done a plethora of interviews with the British press, posed for many pictures with fans and signed autographs.

Bronx, NY (June 12, 2014) Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing is headed to one of their biggest nights in their more than two decades as the leading promoter in the New York City area coming up this Saturday night, June 14 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on HBO Boxing After Dark®, beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Headlining the action packed evening of world class professional boxing, “The Pride of Huntington, New York” CHRIS ALGIERI will challenge WBO Junior Welterweight World Champion RUSLAN “The Siberian Rocky” PROVODNIKOV.

Demetrius Andrade- Joe DeGuardia
Photo courtesy Star Boxing (by Jeremy Flores)
In the televised co-feature, WBO Junior Middleweight World Champion DEMETRIUS “Boo Boo” ANDRADE will defend his title against for the first time against BRIAN “The Lion” ROSE of England.

Both Algieri and Andrade have long fought under the Star Boxing banner.

These two fights truly exemplify what Star Boxing has done since its inception. Star’s President and CEO, Joe DeGuardia, is well regarded for developing fighters from the start of their pro careers to fight on the biggest stages and shine under the brightest lights.

“Demetrius won his world title in November in an impressive performance on HBO and Algieri has truly earned this opportunity not only with his terrific win over Emmanuel Taylor in February but also through the way we’ve worked with him over the past few years leading the massive renaissance of boxing on Long Island. Algieri has accomplished a lot both in and out of the ring and Saturday he has the opportunity to capture the world championship as well”

Continued DeGuardia, “Right out of the 2008 Olympics where Demetrius represented the U.S., we set out a plan with his team to not only win a world title but have the opportunity to fight on the biggest stages such as this Saturday night. It is now his time to show the world that he is the sport’s next star.”

“It’s a huge night for Star Boxing and our fighters and we look forward to giving the New York City boxing fans outstanding events for many years to come.”

Provodnikov vs. Algieri takes place on Saturday, June 14, at Barclays Center. The fight will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark®,beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. The co-main event will feature undefeated WBO junior middleweight champion DEMETRIUS “Boo Boo” ANDRADE, making his first title defense, against No. 1 contender and mandatory challenger BRIAN “The Lion” ROSE. These four gladiators boast a combined record of 87-3-1 (44 KOs) – a 96 percent winning ratio, with more than half of their total victories coming by way of knockout.

Promoted by Banner Promotions and Top Rank®, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, remaining tickets to the Provodnikov-Algieri world championship event, priced at $31, $56, $86, $106 and $206, can be purchased online via Ticketmaster by visiting www.barclayscenter.com or www.ticketmaster.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group tickets are also available by calling 855-GROUP-BK. For information on individual suites, please call 718-BK-SUITE.

The action-packed undercard will feature undefeated World Boxing Council (WBC) Continental Americas champion, Top-Five contender and Long Beach, Long Island fan favorite “Irish” SEANIE MONAGHAN, and the debut of professional women’s boxing at Barclays Center with HEATHER “The Heat” HARDY of Brooklyn risking her undefeated record.

Provodnikov (23-2, 16 KOs), born and raised in Berezovo, Khanty-Mansi, Russia in Siberia, is trained by Hall of Famer Freddie Roach. He had an incredible year in 2013. On March 16 of last year, he was on the wrong end of a hotly-disputed unanimous decision loss to undefeated WBO welterweight champion Timothy Bradley, Jr. Provodnikov, who moved up in weight for his first title shot, hurt Bradley numerous times during their slugfest, nearly knocking out the defending champion in the first and second rounds and scoring a knockdown in the final round. Two of the three scorecards had Bradley winning by only one point. It was voted the Fight of the Year by the Boxing Writers Association of America. Provodnikov moved down to his natural weight in his next fight and challenged WBO junior welterweight champion Mike Alvarado, scoring a dramatic 10th round stoppage to claim his world title, last October 19. Five of Provodnikov’s last six victories have been by knockout.

Algieri (19-0 8 KOs), hails from nearby Huntington, NY. Over the last 18 months Chris has elevated himself to a world-class contender after accumulating significant victories over top prospect Jose Alejo, former USBA champion Mike Arnaoutis, and most recently highly-rated contender Emmanuel Taylor in February. He’s as much a scholar as he is a brawler. He graduated from Stony Brook University with Honors in 2007 with a Bachelors of Science in Health Care Management and then went on to receive his Masters degree from the New York Institute of Technology in 2010. He aspires to attend Medical School.

For fight updates go to www.banner-promotions.com or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/bannerpromotions or facebook.com/hboboxing, and on Twitter at twitter.com/bannerboxing or twitter.com/hboboxing,
also www.StarBoxing.com orwww.facebook.com/StarBoxing
and twitter.com/StarBoxing.

HBO’s hit late-night boxing franchise returns for a full night of world class action when HBO BOXING AFTER DARK: RUSLAN PROVODNIKOV VS. CHRIS ALGIERI AND DEMETRIUS ANDRADE VS. BRIAN ROSE is seen SATURDAY, JUNE 14 at 10:00 p.m. (live ET/tape-delayed PT) from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, exclusively on HBO. The HBO Sports team will be ringside for the event, which will be available in HDTV, closed-captioned for the hearing-impaired and presented in Spanish on HBO Latino.

Other HBO playdates: June 15 (9:00 a.m.) and 17 (12:45 a.m.)
HBO2 playdate: June 15 (3:00 p.m.)
In addition to the two live fights, HBO will air the replay of the Sergio Martinez-Miguel Cotto world middleweight title fight from June 7. In a brilliant display before a capacity crowd at Madison Square Garden, Cotto registered a career-defining performance in capturing the 160-pound title belt. The highly anticipated showdown was carried originally on HBO Pay-Per-View®.
In the feature event at Brooklyn, Ruslan Provodnikov (23-2, 16 KOs), the “Siberian Rocky,” puts his hard-earned junior welterweight title on the line against local talent Chris Algieri (19-0, 8 KOs) of Huntington, NY in a matchup slated for 12 rounds. An awe-inspiring outing against Timothy Bradley in 2013’s Fight of the Year and a rousing triumph over 140-pound titleholder Mike Alvarado last October have brought Provodnikov, 30, to the doorstep of stardom. The Russian’s exciting fighting style, coupled with arguably the most destructive right hand in the division, are guaranteed to satisfy the most critical boxing buffs.
Different principles have paved a path of triumph for the 30-year-old Algieri. In February, facing his toughest challenge yet, he picked Emmanuel Taylor him apart en route to a unanimous decision. That victory has merited him a shot at Provodnikov’s title in his first headlining bout on HBO.
The live action kicks off as two budding stars duke it out for the junior middleweight crown when titleholder Demetrius Andrade (20-0, 13 KOs) of Providence, RI, and Brian Rose (25-1-1, 7 KOs) of Blackpool, Lancashire, UK, square off in a 12-round fight.
After being knocked down for the first time in his promising career, Andrade, 26, doggedly scrapped his way to a split decision over the then-undefeated Vanes Martirosyan in his HBO debut last November. The rising star will be defending his title for the first time.
Victories by knockout, decision and points have cemented the 29-year-old Rose’s reputation as one the most versatile and ring-savvy prizefighters in the UK. This bout marks his first American appearance and his HBO debut.
Follow HBO boxing news at hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at twitter.com/hboboxing.
All HBO boxing events are presented in HDTV. HBO viewers must have access to the HBO HDTV channel to watch HBO programming in high definition.
The executive producer of HBO BOXING AFTER DARK is Rick Bernstein; producer, Jon Crystal; director, Johnathan Evans.
® HBO BOXING AFTER DARK is a registered service mark of Home Box Office, Inc.

NEW YORK (June 9, 2014) – In his first title defense this Saturday night, undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (20-0, 13 KOs) has nothing but bad intentions on his mind for mandatory challenger Brian “The Lion” Rose (25-1-1, 7 KOs).

Andrade vs. Rose is the 12-round co-feature, airing on HBO live from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, on a card presented by Andrade’s co-promoters, Banner Promotions and Star Boxing, along with Top Rank. The main event is a 12-round bout between WBO junior welterweight champion Ruslan Provodnikov (23-2, 16 KOs) and unbeaten challenger Chris Algieri (19-0, 8 KOs).

The 26-year-old Andrade, fighting out of Providence, captured the vacant WBO 154-pound title last November on HBO, defeating previously unbeaten 2004 U.S. Olympian Vanes “Nightmare” Martirosyan (33-0-1, 21 KOs) by way of a 12-round decision.

“Training camp was great,” Andrade said. “I worked on getting smarter and harder. We did some things differently than last camp: even faster movements, focusing on what parts of the body to hit, and being explosive. We worked on an all-around plan.”

A 2008 U.S. Olympian and 2007 World Championships gold medal winner, Andrade plans to make a major statement in hopes his performance propels him into a high-profile fight against the winner of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez vs. Erislandy Lara, possibly Floyd Mayweather, Jr. before he retires next year, or a unification fight with Carlos Molino.

“I’m very excited about this opportunity for Demetrius,” Andrade’s manager Ed Farris added. “Hopefully, we’ll get a spectacular win and provide fans with the kind of performance that they deserve. They will see Demetrius’ incredible potential and special gifts if he does what he’s capable of in the ring. Hopefully, they will become excited to see him guys like Mayweather and Alvarez. I know Demetrius can beat every one of the top guys out there. Whether politics in this sport will allow Demetrius the opportunity to show the world his tremendous ability, well, that’s another story. I know one thing, though, sooner or later Demetrius Andrade will be recognized as one of the most talented boxers in the world and boxing politics won’t stop him from eventually getting to the top.”

The gifted boxer of Cape Verdean heritage is not looking past his United Kingdom challenger. “Everybody in boxing has pop,” Andrade noted about Rose’s power in contrast to his seven knockouts in 25 wins. “I just have to go in and do what I do best – pick him apart.

“I’m a bad man! I’m going to whip his ass. He’s getting knocked out. Fans are going to see why none of the top guys in my division want to fight me. I’m taking over!”

Follow Demetrius Andrade on Twitter @BooBooBoxing.

FOX 10 News | myfoxphoenix.com

ATLANTA (May 7, 2014) – Undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (20-0, 13 KOs) is preparing for his first title defense, June 14 on HBO against No. 1 mandatory challenger Brian “The Lion” Rose (25-1-1, 7 KOs), like it was just another fight.

The 26-year-old Andrade, fighting out of Providence, captured the vacant WBO 154-pound title last November on HBO, defeating previously unbeaten 2004 U.S. Olympian Vanes “Nightmare” Martirosyan (33-0-1, 21 KOs) by way of a 12-round decision.

Andrade vs. Rose is the 12-round co-feature on a card presented by the gifted Cape Verdean-American’s co-promoters, Banner Promotions and Star Boxing, along with Top Rank, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The headliner is a 12-round bout between WBO junior welterweight champion Ruslan Provodnikov (23-2, 16 KOs) and unbeaten challenger Chris Algieri (19-0, 8 KOs).

“I’m preparing for this fight the same way I always have with daily routines that got me here by being smarter and harder,” Andrade said from his Atlanta training camp. “I know what to do and what it takes. I’m always in shape and everything else is in place. My motor is running. I’m getting in shape for greatness, staying active in between fights and keeping my weight down. I’m doing what I was born and taught to do. Everything is coming together so I can put on a show fight night.”

Andrade has a rich pedigree having been a 2008 U.S. Olympian, 2007 World Championships gold medal winner, and four-time national amateur champion. Before he can get into a mega-fight with the likes of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, possibly even Floyd Mayweather, Jr. before he retires, or a unification fight with Carlos Molina or Erislandy Lara, Andrade must first get past his mandatory challenger from the United Kingdom.

“We’d like to thank HBO for providing Demetrius with this opportunity to show the boxing world that he is ready to take over the 154 and 160-pound divisions,” Andrade’s manager Ed Farris commented. “Sooner or later one of the big-name fighters is going to have to face Demetrius and then everybody in boxing will know Demetrius Andrade is for real. We’re honored that HBO has stepped up and given us this chance.

“I still don’t think most people realize what Demetrius did to Vanes Martirosyan. He virtually shut-down a fighter that hadn’t lost in 10 years with a 33-0-1 record. Martirosyan had beaten Erislandy Lara for five straight rounds before Lara started to figure him out. Martirosyan would beat the hell out of Timothy Bradley or Austin Trout, just like he did in the amateurs, yet Demetrius received very little credit for easily beating Martirosyan. Sooner or later the cream rises to the top and believe me Demetrius will rise. I’m confident that he will become one of the greatest fighters in the history of this sport.”

Rose has defeated former world champions Vivian Harris and Joachim Alcine but the light hitting Brit hasn’t been in with a pure boxing technician like Andrade, an athletic southpaw with tremendous speed and quickness combined with his deceptive power.

“I’ve seen clips of Rose,” Andrade concluded. “He’s a straight-up boxer. I won’t know too much more until I get in the ring with him. I do know I’m not going 12 rounds with this guy.”

Follow Demetrius Andrade on Twitter @BooBooBoxing.

ATLANTA (February 12, 2014) – Undefeated World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (20-0, 13 KOs) is shooting for the stars, better make that, The Star.

Not only does Andrade plan to succeed Floyd “Money” Mayweather, Jr. as boxing’s pound-for-pound champion and biggest draw, the slick southpaw hopes to fight Mayweather prior to “Money” closing his boxing bank, so to speak.

Andrade, a native of Providence who now lives in Atlanta, defeated previously unbeaten 2004 U.S. Olympian Vanes “Nightmare” Martirosyan (33-1-1, 21 KOs) by 12-round decision for the vacant WBO title last November on HBO. The 25-year-old is now required to make his first title defense, likely in April according to Andrade, against WBO No. 1-rated mandatory challenger Brian “The Lion” Rose (25-1-1, 7 KOs).

The 36-year-old Mayweather (45-0, 26 KOs) will face either Amir Khan or Marcus Maidana on May 3 in Las Vegas on Showtime PPV. The nine-time, five-division world champion Mayweather is the reigning WBC and WBA Super junior middleweight title holder.

“I’m getting ready to take over boxing after Mayweather retires,” Andrade said. “I want to match my natural, God-given skills against his before he hangs up his gloves for good. Let’s unify the titles, Floyd. We can do it here in Atlanta, Las Vegas or New York. You pick the place, just don’t leave me hanging and retire without fighting me. This is my time!”

Mayweather announced that he will fight only four more times, including May 3, and then retire next year from the ring as a boxer. Andrade needs to quickly position himself as a viable opponent and rising star in order to be seriously considered as one of only three more Mayweather opponents. A match-up between the two could be like the passing of the torch, assuming Andrade continues to develop in the ring and marketable product.

Andrade has been described by some as a younger, taller (by 5 inches), southpaw version of Mayweather because of their similar styles and tremendous boxing skills. Their similarities don’t end there, however. They are both African-Americans who flash endearing smiles, in addition to being former US Olympians (Mayweather – 1996 Olympic bronze medalist, Andrade – 2008), multiple National Golden Gloves champions (Mayweather 1993, 1994 & 1996, Andrade 2006 & 2007), and two of the few undefeated professional prizefighters. Andrade was also the 2007 World Championships gold medalist.

Is Mayweather vs. Andrade in the stars? Stay tuned, boxing fans.

Follow Demetrius Andrade on Twitter @BooBooBoxing.

PROVIDENCE (January 16, 2014) – World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior middleweight champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (20-0, 13 KOs), fresh off of his convincing title-winning performance on HBO over previously undefeated 2004 U.S. Olympian Vanes “Nightmare” Martirosyan (33-1-1, 21 KOs), is riding high in 2014.

The 25-year-old Providence native became the first member of 2008 Team USA Boxing to capture a world title as a professional, as well as the first native New Englander to be world champion of a major governing body since Massachusetts-born heavyweight John “The Quietman” Ruiz in 2005. Andrade also became the first Rhode Islander since Cranston’s light middleweight Vinny “The Pazmanian Devil” Paz in 1991 to capture a major world title.

“It’s settling in,” Andrade spoke about being a world champion as a pro. “This is a result of what I did for five years in the pro ranks; taking things slowly, being patient and taking advantage of my opportunity when it came. Everything’s good! I have a little more love and support in my life and a lot more fans know who I am.”

The judges’ scoring for Andrade vs. Martirosyan was criticized by many observers for being much closer (117-110, 114-113, 112-115) than it appeared. “I was definitely shocked when I heard the scorecards read,” Andrade admitted. “That was a flash knockdown in the first because I was off balance as I went backwards, but I got up and fought like a true champion. I whooped him for 12 rounds and one judge still gave the fight to him? It isn’t fair to the fighters or fans and something needs to be done.”

Before Andrade can position himself for a high-profile, lucrative showdown in 2014, his next fight and first title defense will be against WBO No. 1-rated mandatory challenger Brian “The Lion” Rose (25-1-1, 7 KOs).

“We are looking forward to defending the title and giving everyone a chance to see Demetrius in action as World Champion,” Andrade’s manager Ed Farris commented. “We didn’t care who his next opponent is, Demetrius is ready to show the world that this is his time. We’re glad to have the opportunity to show it.”

Rose is a 28-year-old Brit who is the reigning WBO Inter-Continental 154-pound champion. A relative unknown in the United States, Rose’s most notable wins have come against past-their-primes Javier Marciel (SDEC12) in a WBC eliminator, Joachim Alcine (TKO12) and Vivian Harris (KO3).

The WBO purse bid for Andrade vs. Rose is scheduled for January 23 at the WBO office in Puerto Rico, unless their respective promoters — Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing & Artie Pelullo’s Banner Promotions and Barry Hearn’s Matchroom Sports — reach an agreement prior to the already extended deadline.

“I’m not going to take anybody lightly,” promised Andrade, who was also a World amateur champion. “I’ve been working in the gym, sharpening my tools to get better, and be ready to rock ‘n roll for my first title defense. My goal is to eventually fight the top 154-pounders and unify the titles.”

Shortly after Andrade became world champion, unlike most who go on a celebratory break, Andrade instead served as a sparring partner for Shawn Porter (21-0-1, 14 KOs), who benefited from the sessions en route to defeating International Boxing Federation (IBF) welterweight champion Devon Alexander.

“We grew-up in the amateurs together,” Andrade spoke about his friend Porter. “We fought each other three times and were on traveling teams together in so many different countries. I saw him at the (Andre) Ward-(Edwin) Rodriguez fight and told him the best sparring he could get was right here. I asked him if he wanted to sharpen his skills and be able to see everything coming at him. He wanted the work but didn’t want to ask me, so I asked him if he wanted my help. He said, let’s do it.”

Now, they’re both World Champions.

Follow Demetrius Andrade on Twitter @BooBooBoxing.

PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND (December 2, 2013)—This Wednesday, WBO Jr. Middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade will be honored by his home state for his sensational championship victory over Vanes Martirosyan on November 9th in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Andrade, 20-0 will be receiving his recognition at the Rhode Island State house at 4:30 pm eastern.

“We are very proud of Demetrius”, said Banner Promotions CEO Arthur Pelullo.

“We look forward to many big fights in the future for Demetrius and I am sure Demetrius will have many more accolades and days like he will be having in the future.”

PHILADELPHIA, PA (November 19, 2013)—On the heels of a great run by Banner Promotions fighters, WBO Jr. welterweight champion Ruslan Provodnikov, WBO Jr. middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade and top middleweight contender Bryan Vera, the next wave of stars for Banner Promotions also scored big victories in recent weeks.

On November 9th, newly signed light heavyweight Michael Seals of Atlanta, Georgia went to 17-0 and notched his 13th knockout when he stopped 56 fight veteran Steve Walker in the 1st round of their scheduled eight round bout in Norcross, Georgia.

On November 13th, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, undefeated Jr. Middleweight Patrick Teixeira scored a 5th round stoppage over Alejandro Gustavo Falliga to capture the vacant WBO Jr. Middleweight title. Teixeira is now 21-0 with 18 knockouts.

On November 14th, Jr. Welterweight Cornelius Whitlock scored a 1st round stoppage over Josue Rivera in a scheduled four round bout that was part of the “Fight For Children” charity event in Washington, D.C. Whitlock is now 2-0-2 with one knockout.

The very next night in Altoona, Iowa, 2012 Olympic Bronze medal winner, Taras Shelestyuk stopped Thomas Allen in the 2nd round of their scheduled six round Jr. Middleweight bout to raise his undefeated mark to 6-0 with 4 knockouts.

“I am very proud of all our fighters, “said Banner Promotions CEO Arthur Pelullo. “We have had some great performances on HBO and now to see our next wave of fighters progressing like we have hoped is gratifying.”

Mikey Garcia had to climb off the canvas and come back to score an 8th round stoppage over Roman Martinez and win the WBO Jr. Lightweight championship at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Garcia boxed very well for most of the fight the exception of a brief moment in round 2 when he was caught with a sneaky right hand that sent him to the canvas. That advantage was short lived for Martinez as Garcia started finding a range with his power shots. In round six, a left hook wobbled Martinez. Garcia finished the round landing a nice right hand and a body shot. Garcia continued landing good shots and in round eight he landed a perfect left to the body that sent Martinez down on all fours. he was unable to beat the count and the fight was over at 56 seconds of round eight.

Garcia of Oxnard, CA is now 33-0 with 28 knockouts. Martinez of Puerto Rico is now 27-2-2.

Nonito Donaire made it two for two against Vic Darchinyan as the Filipino Flash had to come from behind to score a ninth round stoppage in their Featherweight bout.

Both guys landed hard shots for the first eight rounds with Darchinyan landing more often and even rocking Donaire, the heavy favorite several times. Finally in round nine, Donaire dropped Darchinyan with a huge left hook. Donaire went in and landed a huge flurry of punches and the fight was stopped at 2:06 of the ninth round. Donaire was down 78-74 on two cards while a 3rd card was even at 76-76.

Donaire is now 32-2 with 21 knockouts. Darchinyan falls to 39-6-1.

Demetrius Andrade won the WBO jr. middleweight championship with a workmanlike split decision over 2004 U.S. Olympian and previously undefeated Vanes Martirosyan.

Andrade of Providence, Rhode Island, is now 20-0 with 13 knockouts and is promoted by Arthur Pelullo’s Banner Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Andrade proved early that he had the heart of a champion as he came back from a flash first -round knockdown.

Andrade got off the deck and dominated the rest of the bout as he stuck his hard right jab consistently in
Martirosyan’s face.

Andrade’s best round was the sixth when he hit Martirosyan with repeated power shots that raised swelling around his left eye.

Andrade was never challenged down the stretch as he put on a beautiful boxing exhibition that Martirosyan had no answer for.

According to Compubox Andrade landed 219 of 769 while Martirosyan only managed 83 of 443.

Two judges had Andrade winning by scores of 117-110 and 114-113, While a third judge turned in a dubious card that had Martirosyan ahead 115-112.

“He caught me but I stayed focused,” said Andrade about the knockdown. “I stayed focused and continued to jab and started to pick him apart. I started to feel comfortable inside and won the fight.”

On becoming a world champion, “This feels great and my time is now.”

Said co-promoter Arthur Pelullo, “This is what we envisioned when we signed him. That was to become world champion and he did that tonight. We feel that he is on track to become the best jr. middleweight in the world. Winning this belt puts him in the mix to be able to prove that.”

Mikey Garcia 128 3/4 vs. Rocky Martinez 129 3/4
(WBO jr lightweight title)
Nonito Donaire 125 1/4 vs. Vic Darchinyan 125 3/4
Vanes Martirosyan 153 3/4 vs. Demetrius Andrade 153 3/4
(Vacant WBO jr middleweight title)
Nicholas Walters 125 vs. Alberto Garza 125 1/2
(WBA featherweight title)
Oscar Valdez 127 3/4 vs. Jesus Lule 127 3/4
Alex Saucedo 145 1/4 vs. Steve Hall 146
Erick De Leon 129 3/4 vs. Jesus Aguinaga 130 1/4
Oscar Cantu 117 1/2 vs. Roberto Ceron 118 1/4

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX, (November 7, 2013) The Final Press Conference was held today in Corpus Christi, Texas for this Saturday night’s WBO Junior Middleweight World Championship between top rated contenders Demetrius Andrade and Vanes Martirosyan telecast Live on HBO® from the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. The telecast will start at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

Below are quotes from Andrade and Star Boxing’s Joe DeGuardia.

Demetrius Andrade-“Thanks very much to HBO for this opportunity. I’ve waited a long time, five years in the making. There have been a few delays this year but now we’re here and ready to go.”

“They say Vanes hits hard but boxing ain’t easy. I’m in the best shape of my life and ready to bring the belt home to Providence, Rhode Island.”

Joe DeGuardia-“When we (Star Boxing and Banner Promotions) signed Demetrius 5 years ago we said he’d be a World Champion. We knew that Demetrius would get his opportunity and be able to show the world who the best junior middleweight is”

“However, Demetrius has no small challenge in front of him, between him and Vanes they have a combined record of 53-0. It’s a fantastic fight, the winner becomes the WBO Champion and a real player in the division and in boxing.”

“We’re confident that Demetrius has prepared well and is ready for this opportunity.”

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing Inc. celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2012. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit their official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow them on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook at Star Boxing.

NEW YORK (November 6, 2013)
Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing® is gearing up for a special evening this Saturday night, NOVEMBER 9 with top rated junior middleweight contender Demetrius Andrade challenging for the world title Live on HBO ®
and DeGuardia being honored as an inductee
into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.

“Over my more than 20 years promoting, this Saturday night is among the most special evenings,” said DeGuardia. “Having worked with Demetrius since he turned professional it’s very rewarding to put him in a position to challenge for the world title where the whole world truly will be watching.”

“In addition, I’m personally humbled and honored to be inducted into the prestigious Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame. Having promoted a wealth of successful shows during my career in Connecticut and particularly at Mohegan Sun (the host of the Award Ceremony Saturday night) this means a great deal to me”.

“I only wish I could attend but I committed to be with Demetrius and must be ringside in Texas for his world title fight. Perhaps the HBO telecast will be a part of the awards and dinner festivities so I can be there on the screen as I will be in spirit” DeGuardia joked.

DeGuardia’s Star Boxing has brought countless fantastic shows to Connecticut on virtually every TV Medium.

Sporting a record of 19-0-0 (13KO’s), the 25-year-old Andrade will challenge Vanes Martirosyan, 33-0-1 (21KO’s), for the vacant World Boxing Organization Junior Middleweight Title at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. The HBO telecast will start live at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

Andrade turned professional in October 2008, followed an illustrious amateur career that included representing the United States at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China. Andrade is co-promoted by Star Boxing and Banner Promotions.

Joining DeGuardia in the 2013 Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame class will be boxing broadcaster extraordinaire Al Bernstein, former world title challengers Luigi “Kid Dynamite” Campurato and Israel “Pito” Cardona along with referee/amateur coach Johnny Callas and USA Boxing administrator Roland Roy.

ABOUT STAR BOXING:

Star Boxing Inc. celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2012. Star Boxing has worked to produce some of the most exciting and memorable boxing events in recent history. Star has continued to work with and develop a number of very exciting world champions, world rated contenders and young prospects. Star has consistently brought credibility, integrity, and exciting fights to the boxing industry. For more information on Star Boxing, visit their official website at www.StarBoxing.com and follow them on Twitter @ Star Boxing and Facebook at Star Boxing.

ATLANTA (October 23, 2013) – Undefeated light middleweight Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (19-0, 13 KOs), a 2008 U.S. Olympian, is on a mission to complete a rare “boxing double” November 9, when he fights 2004 U.S. Olympian Vanes “Nightmare” Martirosyan (33-0-1, 21 KOs) for the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO) 154-pound title.

Andrade vs. Martirosyan will be part of an HBO tripleheader, airing live from Corpus Christi, Texas, headlined by WBO junior lightweight Roman Martinez’ title defense against Mikey Garcia, in addition to a rematch between former world champions Nonito Donaire and Vic Darchinyan.

In 2007, Andrade captured a gold medal as an amateur at the AIBA World Championships in Chicago. A Nov. 9th victory over Martirosyan would make Andrade one of the few contemporary world champions as both a professional and amateur.

The gifted southpaw can become the first native New Englander to be world champion of a major governing body since Massachusetts-born heavyweight John “The Quietman” Ruiz in 2005, as well as the first Rhode Islander to do the same since Cranston’s light middleweight Vinny “The Pazmanian Devil” in 1991.

“I honestly don’t pay attention to anything other than working hard to reach my goal of becoming world champion,” the 25-year-old said from his Atlanta training camp. “Everything else is irrelevant, at least for right now, as I train for my first world title fight. New England has had a lot of good fighters.

“I do know I am going to be the first (pro) world champion from the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team. I just want to show the boxing world that I am the No. 1 light welterweight in the world and why I will be for years to come. I’m just beginning my legacy. I’m growing in stature and a lot more people are going to know me after November 9th.”

Andrade credits his amateur boxing experience as the primary reason why fighting HBO for the first time won’t be a problem, as well as his 300+ amateur fights giving him an advantage in the ring against any opponent.

“HBO is a big stage and I’m grateful to be fighting on HBO for the first time,” Andrade noted, “but there’s no bigger stage in boxing, world-wide, than The Olympics. I’ve fought under the bright lights, so fighting on HBO won’t be anything new for me, or a distraction in any way.

“I’ve seen and beaten every style, fighting amateur opponents from all over the world, but nobody in the pros has fought anybody like me. I’m going into this fight with a lot of confidence. I’ve prepared for this moment my entire life. This is my time!”

Go online to www.BooBooBoxing for additional information about Demetrius Andrade and follow on Twitter and Instagram @BooBooBoxing.

ATLANTA (October XX, 2013) – The journey continues for undefeated 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (19-0, 13 KOs) as he prepares for his November 9th world title fight in Corpus Christi, Texas, against 2004 U.S. Olympian Vanes “Nightmare” Martirosyan (33-0-1, 21 KOs) for the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior middleweight championship.

Andrade vs. Martirosyan will be part of an HBO tripleheader, headlined by the WBO junior lightweight title fight between defending champion Roman Martinez and challenger Mikey Garcia, and a rematch between former world champions Nonito Donaire and Vic Darchinyan.

The 25-year-old Andrade was originally slated to challenge then WBO champion Zaurbek Baysangurov last July. The Russian pulled out of the fight with an injury and was stripped of his title belt, leaving the world title vacant to set-up the Nov. 9 showdown between the top two rated WBO 154-pounders, respectively, Martirosyan and Andrade.

Andrade, fighting out of Providence (RI), has been at training camp in Atlanta with his father/head trainer, Paul Andrade. They have brought in a half-dozen sparring partners, mostly tall with quick hand speed, to prepare for Martirosyan.

“This title fight is part of my journey,” the 2007 AIBA World Championships gold medalist Andrade said. “When I first started boxing, I said that I’d fight in The Olympics, become world champion, and retire undefeated. I will become the first boxer from the 2008 U.S. Olympic Boxing Team to become world champion as a professional. This is the opportunity I’ve waited for my whole life. It is going to open my door to stardom, letting boxing fans know I’m here. This is it!

“I was supposed to fight for the world title in July but I believe everything happens for a reason. I’ve had more time to work with my dad. I’m stronger, faster and this camp has been better organized and structured than any I’ve had in the past. I’m growing and developing all the time.”

While Martirosyan has been talking about fights with Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and others, Andrade has fully concentrated on Martirosyan and the task at hand. Their only common opponent is Angel Hernandez, who Martirosyan defeated by 10-round decision in 2008, and Andrade stopped in the second round of his last fight this past January.

“He can talk all he wants about fighting other guys,” Andrade remarked, “but if he thinks fighting me is going to be a walk in the park, he’s going to be in big trouble. I’m coming for him and he doesn’t know how bad that’s going to be for him.

“He’s already had 34 fights and this is his first title fight, which says something about him. He doesn’t do anything great. He’s not slick, his feet are all over the place, and he jumps in to throw punches. He walks in, loading up to throw big punches. He wasn’t impressive against (Erislandy) Lara or even Joe Greene.”

Team Andrade hopes Martirosyan is looking past the slick southpaw. “This is going to be a tough fight and we respect Vanes,” Andrade’s manager Ed Farris added, “but Alvarez shouldn’t waste his time thinking about a fight with Martirosyan. We’re confident that Demetrius will be walking out of the ring with the WBO belt on November 9th.

Follow Demetrius Andrade on Twitter @BooBooBoxing.

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX (September 18, 2013) — The Lone Star State will play host to an exciting tripleheader featuring two world championship fights and a grudge rematch between former world champions that’s been building for over six years. Two-time World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior lightweight champion ROMAN “Rocky” MARTINEZ will defend his title against undefeated former WBO featherweight champion MIKEY GARCIA; 2012 Fighter of the Year NONITO “Filipino Flash” DONAIRE and former two-division world champion VIC “Raging Bull” DARCHINYAN will be looking to settle each other’s hash in a 10-round featherweight rumble and undefeated No. 1 and No. 2 contenders and one-time U.S. Olympians VANES “The Nightmare” MARTIROSYAN and DEMETRIUS “Boo Boo” ANDRADE will battle it out for the vacant WBO junior middleweight title This boxing extravaganza will take place Saturday, November 9, at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, TX. All three fights will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark®, beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

Promoted by Top Rank®, in association with Foreman Boys Promotions, PR Best Boxing, Arthur Pelullo’s Banner Promotions, Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and Tecate, tickets to the Martinez vs. Garcia world championship event will go on sale This Friday! September 20, at 10:00 a.m. CT. Tickets, priced at $200, $100, $60, $40 and $25, plus applicable charges, can be purchased at the American Bank Center Box Office (Monday-Friday, 10am-6pm), all Ticketmaster Outlets (HEB Stores), ticketmaster.com, or by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

“This fight is a great opportunity to clear any doubts about my value as a world champion, “Martinez said to Primera Hora. “A win over Garcia will prove that I am a real champion and it will take me to the next level.”

“I’m fighting a defending champion. It won’t be easy but I think I have all the tools to beat Rocky,” said Garcia. “I want to be champion again and Rocky is in my way. I will become champion again.”

“This is a very important fight for me,” said Darchinyan. “It gives me the opportunity to face and defeat an opponent who beat me in the past. This win will be sweet revenge for me.”

“I am ready to go,” said Martirosyan. “The last fight postponement might be a blessing in disguise because it is just making me hungrier and hungrier every day. I just can’t wait to get into the ring and prove how badly I want this. I have been training very hard and have a great game plan with Freddie Roach. A lot of one-on-one with Freddie, combined with great sparring and training along with the likes of Miguel Cotto and George St. Pierre. That has been very inspirational and motivating. Andrade is a great fighter. I hope he is ready to go to war. We are on HBO and I plan on stealing the spotlight that night with a very exciting and entertaining win for the fans.”

“I am looking forward to this fight and have been waiting for this fight ever since I walked into the gym at age 7”, said Andrade. “I always wanted to be champion of the world and on November 9th I will be crowned champion. I wanted to win an Olympic gold medal and since they took that from me, I am going to take this world title. I was a 2008 Olympian and he made it in 2004. It’s great that the fans will get to see two Olympians battle on HBO. I know I will bring home the title.”

“We are proud to present to the fans of Corpus Christi a fistic feats involving some of the greatest boxers in the world,” said Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. “There are at least five fights on this card which could be the main event in any arena. This will be the most exciting night ever for boxing fans in Corpus Christi.”

“In all three fights, fans expect big statements to be made in the ring,” said Peter Nelson, director of programming, HBO Sports. “The night presents a fistic hat-trick of exciting match-ups in which the momentum can shift at any time.”

Martinez (27-1-2, 16 KOs), of Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, captured his first world title in 2009, knocking out defending champion Nicky Cook in the fourth round of a bout held in Cook’s backyard, Manchester, England. Rocky successfully defended the belt twice — both by knockout — during his 18-month reign before losing it to Ricky Burns in Scotland in a hotly-contested battle that saw the close decision go to Burns. He bagen his second and current world championship tenure last year, winning the vacant WBO junior lightweight crown with a majority decision over Miguel Beltran, Jr. a toe-to-toe brawl that had the crowd on its feet from the opening bell. He has successfully defended his title twice since regaining it, a Draw against Juan Carlos Burgos and a split decision over Diego Magdaleno, last January and April, respectively.

Garcia (32-0, 27 KOs), of Oxnard, Calif., a 2010 graduate of California’s Ventura County Police and Sheriff’s Reserve Officer Academy, returns to the ring having won 15 of his past 17 bouts by knockout and has not gone the distance in over three years. He captured the WBO featherweight title in January, dethroning two-time featherweight champion Orlando Salido at Madison Square Garden via an eight-round technical win that had Garcia winning virtually every round against the seasoned veteran. He was forced to vacate the title in his first defense, for not being able to make the 126-pound weight limit. Though drained, he was still able to rise to the occasion and knock out former two-division world champion Juan Manuel “Juanma” Lopez in the fourth round last June. Garcia, 25, had a career-best year in 2012, knocking out one-time world title challenger Bernabe Concepcion and former world champion Mauricio Pastrana, in the seventh and second rounds, respectively. He ended his 2012 campaign by knocking out former World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight champion Jonathan Barros in the eighth round last November. Garcia is trained by his father Eduardo Garcia and co-managed and trained by his brother, 2012 Trainer of the Year Robert Garcia, the former International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior lightweight champion.

Donaire (31-2, 20 KOs), a native of General Santos City, Philippines, now living in Las Vegas, Nev., has been a consensus top-10 pound-for-pound fighter for several years. His 12-year, 30-bout winning streak came to an end in his last fight, losing a decision to undefeated Cuban sensation and WBA super bantamweight champion Guillermo Rogondeaux in a title unification bout last April. Trained by 2012 Trainer of the Year and former world champion Robert Garcia, Donaire is himself the reigning Fighter of the Year. 2012 was a career year for Donaire, winning four world title fights — all televised live on HBO. Highlights included capturing the vacant WBO junior featherweight title in February, winning a gritty split-decision battle over former world champion Wilfredo Vazquez, Jr. He unified the title later that summer, via a dominant unanimous decision victory over defending IBF champion Jeffrey Mathebula. Donaire followed that victory with another legacy-making knockout — a ninth-round stoppage of WBC Diamond Belt super bantamweight champion Toshiaki Nishioka in October, ending Nishioka’s eight-year, 16-bout winning streak. Donaire capped the year in December, blasting out Méxican icon Jorge Arce via a third-round knockout. Career highlights for Donaire also include knockout victories of defending IBF / International Boxing Organization (IBO) flyweight champion Vic Darchinyan, in the fifth round, the first loss of Darchinyan’s professional career, former WBA bantamweight champion Wladimir Sidorenko, in the fourth round, and defending WBC / WBO bantamweight champion Fernando Montiel in the second round, ending Montiel’s 25-bout winning streak while also claiming his third world title in as many weight divisions. That victory was named the 2011 Knockout of the Year.

Darchinyan (39-5-1, 28 KOs), a native of Armenia whose home base has been Sydney, Australia, is one of the lower division’s most exciting fighters. A member of Armenia’s 2000 Olympic boxing team, he won his first world title in his 22nd professional bout, knocking out undefeated International IBF flyweight champion Irene Pacheco in the 11th round of their 2004 battle, ending Pacheco’s five-year reign. During his own three-year tenure as world champion, Darchinyan successfully defended his title six times – all by stoppage – against the division’s top contenders. After losing the title and his undefeated record to Donaire, in 2007, Darchinyan moved up in weight and claimed the IBF junior bantamweight crown, knocking out defending champion Dimitri Kirilov in the fifth round. He unified the 115 pound world titles in his next fight, knocking out WBC / WBA super flyweight champion Cristian Mijares in the ninth round. The first person to unify three of the titles in that weight division He successfully defended his titles three times during his two-year reign as unified super flyweight champion, including an 11th-round stoppage of Méxican icon Jorge Arce. Darchinyan vacated his titles in mid-2010 to campaign as a bantamweight, defeating former IBF bantamweight champion Yonnhy Perez, Evans Mbamba and Eric Barcelona, while losing competitive decisions to world champions Abner Mares, Joseph Agbeko and Shinsuke Yamanaka. Last September, Darchinyan made his debut as a super bantamweight, winning the NABF title by shellacking previously undefeated prospect Luis Del Valle. Darchinyan returns to the ring fresh from a fourth-round knocked out of Francisco Gallo in May. Darchinyan is currently world-rated No. 2 by the WBO and the WBC, No. 4 by the WBA and No. 5 by the IBF.

Martirosyan (33-0-1, 21 KOs), a native of Armenia who fights out of Glendale, Calif., is one of the super welterweight division’s most promising contenders. A member of the 2004 U.S. Olympic team, Martirosyan’s amateur resume boasts victories over future world champions Timothy Bradley, Jr., Austin Trout and Andre Berto. Trained by Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach, Martirosyan captured his first title in 2009, knocking out defending NABA/NABO champion Willie Lee. He successfully defended the title in his next fight, in 2010, a 10-round unanimous decision victory over former IBF junior middleweight champion Kassim Ouma. He added the NABF title to his trophy case with another 10-round unanimous decision later that same year, at Yankee Stadium, this time over previously undefeated Joe Greene, and captured the World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver super welterweight title in 2011, via a seventh-round TKO of Saul Roman. Currently world-rated No. 1 by the WBO, Martirosyan returns to the ring fresh from knocking out Ryan Davis, his seventh knockout victim in his last 11 fights.

Andrade (19-0, 13 KO), of Providence, RI, has been a mainstay on television since making his professional debut following his stint on the 2008 U.S. Olympic team. Co-promoted by Banner Promotions and Star Boxing, Andrade’s aggressive style has attracted and created fans on both coasts of the U.S. One doesn’t have to look any further than his recent record where Andrade has stopped five of his last seven opponents. In his last fight, Andrade pasted one-time world title challenger Freddy Hernandez for 10 rounds, winning every round on all three judges’ card en route to a unanimous decision victory. Andrade is currently world-rated No. 2 by the WBO.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com and www.hbo.com/boxing, Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/hboboxing, and facebook.com/trboxeo, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, or twitter.com/hboboxing.

PHILADELPHIA (July 29, 2013)—On Saturday September 7th, former U.S. Olympian and undefeated Demetrius Andrade will vie for his first world championship, when he takes on fellow former U.S. Olympian Vanes Martirosyan in a twelve round bout from the STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The bout, which will be televised live on HBO Championship Boxing, will be the co-feature to the Super Middleweight clash between Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Bryan Vera.

Demetrius Andrade of Providence, Rhode Island was a former world amateur champion and has a perfect professional mark of 19-0 with thirteen knockouts and is currently the number two contender for the WBO belt.

Vanes Martiroysan of Glendale, California is 33-0-1 with 21 knockouts.

Andrade, who is co-promoted by Banner Promotions and Star Boxing, was scheduled to contend for the belt on July 6th but an injury to then-champion Zaurbek Baysangurov forced the title to become vacant, thus setting up this showdown of undefeated former Olympians.

“I am looking forward to this fight and have been waiting for this fight ever since I walked into the gym at age 7”, said Andrade.

“I always wanted to be champion of the world and on September 7th I will be crowned champion. I wanted to win an Olympic gold medal and since they took that from me, I am going to take this world title.”

“I was a 2008 Olympian and he made it in 2004. I will show him that if I was around in 2003 and 2004, he would not have made the team”, finished Andrade.“This will be an outstanding fight and we worked hard on getting this fight on HBO”, said Banner Promotions CEO Arthur Pelullo.

“We feel that Demetrius has all the talent to become a star in this sport and only needed the opportunity on this kind of stage and on September 7th he will get that chance. I want to thank my partner Joe DeGuardia, HBO, Top Rank and the WBO for making this great fight. I have a feeling that after September 7th, not only will Demetrius be a world champion but he will be a household name and in line for even bigger fights.”