LAS VEGAS – August 15, 2024 – Former unified world champion Stephen Fulton Jr. will take on all-action contender Carlos Castro in a featherweight clash that will headline a three-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup on Saturday, September 14 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The live-streaming action will begin at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT and be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card it leads into.

The streaming presentation will also feature hard-hitting welterweight Roiman Villa dueling Mexico’s Ricardo Salas in a 10-round battle, plus unbeaten prospect Jonathan Lopez squares off against Richard Medina in an eight-round super featherweight clash that kicks off the action.

The Fulton vs. Castro topped lineup will lead into a four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video as Canelo Promotions presents a Mexican Independence Day weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his unified super middleweight world titles on the line against unbeaten WBA No. 1-ranked mandatory contender Edgar Berlanga in the main event. In the star-studded co-main event, WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream’’ Lara will take on hard-hitting former two-division world champion Danny “Swift’’ Garcia. Plus, former super middleweight world champion Caleb Plant battles undefeated contender Trevor McCumby for the interim WBA Super Middleweight title and former super lightweight world champion Rolando “Rolly’’ Romero will duel Manuel Jaimes in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

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

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

“Saturday, Sept. 14 is a stacked card that now features six champions and former champions with the addition of the former unified champion Stephen Fulton headlining PBC on Prime Video leading into the pay-per-view,’’ said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Fulton is a top pound-for-pound talent and he’s ready to remind everyone why he belongs on that list against the always tough Carlos Castro. With an all-action duel between Roiman Villa and Ricardo Salas, plus rising prospect Jonathan Lopez facing Richard Medina, this lines up to be another stacked night of PBC on Prime Video action.’’

**STEPHEN FULTON JR. VS. CARLOS CASTRO**

The former unified WBC and WBO World Champion at 122-pounds, Stephen Fulton Jr. steps back into action looking to begin his run at featherweight and bounce back from his first career defeat when he takes on the hard-charging contender Carlos Castro in a 10-round featherweight clash that adds yet another intriguing showdown to a stacked night of action.

Born and raised in West Philadelphia, Pa., Fulton (21-1, 8 KOs) makes his featherweight debut coming off a July 2023 challenge that saw him travel to Japan to take on undefeated Japanese superstar Naoya Inoue, eventually dropping the road contest in round eight. In his previous 14 professional fights, the 30-year-old had established himself on pound-for-pound lists by beating eight previously undefeated fighters. After taking the super bantamweight title from Angelo Leo in January 2021, he edged out Brandon Figueroa in November to unify titles in one of the year’s best fights. Trained in his hometown, Fulton has displayed sublime boxing skills that have allowed him to dominate opponents of varying styles and control fights from start to finish.

“It’s been a long time coming, but I’m glad to be back in the ring. I’ve been in the gym and learning new techniques with Bozy Ennis that I can’t wait to show my fans and the boxing world,’’ said Fulton. “This is a tremendous event. I plan to show out on my way to becoming a two-division world champion.”

Castro (30-2, 14 KOs) was born in Sonora, Mexico and came to the U.S. as a child. Now living in Phoenix, Ariz., Castro enters this fight on a three-bout winning streak, including most recently earning a 10-round unanimous decision over Belmar Preciado in April. He’s challenged two top featherweights in his career, losing a July 2022 bout against former world champion Brandon Figueroa in addition to a narrow split-decision against two-division champion Luis Nery in February 2022, with one point on the cards ultimately holding Castro back from keeping his unbeaten record intact. The 30-year-old has competed at featherweight and super bantamweight throughout his career, including a 10^th round TKO victory over veteran featherweight contender Oscar Escandon in August 2021.

“Fighting Fulton is going to bring the best out of me. I can promise you that,’’ said Castro. “These opportunities only come along so often. I will take advantage of it because my life has been boxing for as long as I can remember. Come Sept. 14 I will be the best entertainer of all the boxers that night.’’

**ROIMAN VILLA VS. RICARDO SALAS**

One of the hardest punchers in the welterweight division, Roiman Villa will step back into action after going toe-to-toe with welterweight champion Jaron Ennis in his last bout, as he competes in a 10-round welterweight attraction against the young and hungry Ricardo Salas, who’s trained by Isaac Cruz Sr., the father and trainer of former WBA 140-Pound World Champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz. Villa and Salas had been originally scheduled to meet on June 15, before Villa was forced to withdraw due to illness.

A native of Rosario, Venezuela, Villa (26-2, 24 KOs) gave Ennis perhaps the toughest fight of the unbeaten fighter’s career last July before losing the bout in round 10. Previously, Villa had delivered one of 2023’s biggest upsets in January by earning a majority decision victory over the then-undefeated top contender Rashidi Ellis. In an exciting action bout, Villa broke through in the 12^th and final round as he dropped Ellis twice to clinch the career-changing win. The 31-year-old made a memorable U.S. debut in September 2022 as he dropped the previously unbeaten Janelson Bocachica on his way to a unanimous decision. The only other blemish on his resume came via a 2019 split-decision in Mexico against Marcos Villasana.

“I’m very happy to be returning to the ring and I’m ready to chase my dream of becoming world champion,” said Villa. “I’m 100% ready to make the most of this opportunity. My team has put me in a great position and now it’s on me to execute in the ring. I learned a lot in my last fight and I can’t wait to show everyone what I can do on September 14.”

The 25-year-old Salas (19-2-2, 14 KOs) is unbeaten in his last five outings, with three KO victories and two draws. A native of Mexico City who trains alongside Mexican star Isaac Cruz, he’ll be making his U.S. debut on September 14 looking to make a big splash on Prime Video. Salas however has experience fighting outside of his home country, having won fights in Canada and Jamaica. A pro since 2016, both of Salas’ defeats came via split decision.

“Ever since I started boxing, my goal was to fight in the U.S. and in Las Vegas like my idol Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. did,” said Salas. “I can’t wait to finally make that dream a reality on September 14. I’m going to make sure that everyone knows my name after this fight. I’m thankful to my whole team and I’m extremely motivated and excited to step into the ring.”

**JONATHAN LOPEZ VS. RICHARD MEDINA**

Trained by the renowned Eddy Reynoso, the 21-year-old Jonathan Lopez has shown the skills to become a future world champion and will look to continue his rise when he takes on the 23-year-old Richard Medina in an eight-round super featherweight bout.

Residing in Orlando, Florida, Lopez (16-0, 12 KOs) turned pro in 2020 following an impressive amateur career and will enter this fight having stopped 10 of his last 11 opponents. He scored a career-best victory in June 2023 and went 10 rounds for the first time as he bested former title challenger Eduardo Baez via a wide unanimous decision. He’s scored two victories so far in 2024, stopping Edgar Ortega in round eight in May, before most recently KO’ing Leonardo Padilla in round one in July.

“I’m very motivated by this opportunity and I’m thankful to Eddy Reynoso, Canelo and my whole team for putting me on this platform,” said Lopez. “This is a huge chance for me to fight on Canelo’s undercard and I’m going to make the most of it. I’m ready to go out there and give the fans a great fight that they’re going to love.”

Fighting out of his native San Antonio, Medina (15-2, 8 KOs) will look to bounce back from a decision defeat against George Acosta last December. A pro since 2018, Medina was unbeaten in his first 13 outings. His undefeated run was halted in 2022, as he lost a decision to former featherweight world champion Raymond Ford. Medina would go on to bounce back from that loss with victories over Steve Garagarza and Juan Antonio Lopez.

“I’m working extremely hard right now so that I can make the most of this opportunity on September 14,” said Medina. “I’m expecting the best version of my opponent, but I’m gonna be the toughest opponent he’s faced and I’m getting better with every fight. Fans can expect a great matchup, because I’m coming to win. I’m gonna leave it all in the ring and give the fans their money’s worth on September 14.”

#         #         #

ABOUT CANELO VS. BERLANGA

Canelo vs. Berlanga will deliver the latest installment of the historic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry as Canelo Promotions presents pound-for-pound great and Mexican superstar Canelo Álvarez putting his unified WBC, WBA and WBO Super Middleweight World Titles on the line against undefeated WBA No. 1-Ranked Mandatory Contender Edgar Berlanga headlining a Mexican Independence Day weekend extravaganza topping a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video taking place Saturday, Sept. 14 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The star-studded co-main event will feature Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara taking on hard-hitting two-division world champion and Puerto Rican star Danny “Swift” García in a 12-round showdown between two of this era’s most accomplished fighters.

Plus, former super middleweight world champion Caleb Plant will take on undefeated contender Trevor McCumby for the Interim WBA Super Middleweight Title, while the former 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero steps into the ring against the hard-hitting Manuel Jaimes in a 10-round bout opening the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

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

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

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

By Mario Ortega Jr.

For Stockton, California-based lightweight prospect Manuel Jaimes and his team, 2024 has been the year when maneuvering the minefield that is the professional boxing business went from a game of checkers to one of high stakes chess. When Jaimes boards a plane to Las Vegas in September, making his fourth fight trip of the year, but hopefully the third to actually bear out an appearance in the ring, the six-year pro will be on his way to the most important weekend of his boxing life. Jaimes finds himself in the position fighters from all over the world dream of gaining as he is set to take on former interim lightweight champion Rolando Romero on the Canelo Alvarez-Edgar Belanga pay-per-view- telecast emanating from the T-Mobile Arena on Mexican Independence Day weekend. 

Jaimes (16-1-1, 11 KOs) is a relative unknown on the national fight scene despite his impressive record. Earlier this year, Jaimes was poised to make his first impression at the international level with a scheduled ESPN+-streamed bout against Top Rank prospect Charlie Sheehy in San Diego, California. At the time of their scheduled bout, slated to take place on the May 18th undercard of Denys Berinchyk-Emmanuel Navarrete, Jaimes had fought almost exclusively between 130 and 135-pounds, but agreed to give up a pound to make the fight at 136. Unfortunately, Sheehy could not come close and the fight never took place. 

“We were all really excited when that fight came together,” recalls Jaimes of the Sheehy bout, which had many aficionados in the region intrigued. “I went down to camp in Riverside at Robert Garcia’s gym. We put in a lot of work for that fight. A lot of sparring, a lot of rounds. We came to the weigh-ins and I was on weight. My coach told me to go rest, so I stayed back at the hotel room because we knew he was overweight already, it was just a matter of how much and if we were going to be able to come to an agreement and make something happen. Maybe an hour and 30 minutes later, Coach came up and said it was not going to happen and that was a bummer.”

With the disappointment of a fruitless trip down to San Diego in the rearview, Jaimes turned his attention to a July bout against former world super bantamweight champion Jonathan Romero. 

“Having just got out of the camp for the [canceled Sheehy] fight in May, we jumped right back in to prepare for July, so I felt sharp,” says Jaimes. “He was an Olympian, a former world champion, and obviously he’s not in his prime now, but he still is a high caliber fighter with the IQ and mindset of a world class fighter, so it was a good test for me.” 

Leading up to the July bout, it was Jaimes on this occasion that struggled to make weight. Ultimately an agreement was reached and the bout was set to take place at 139-pounds. Jaimes is of the belief that his struggle with the scale may have helped to put him on the radar during the search for possible Rolando Romero opponents. 

“I feel like it was because of my last fight…because I am usually a 135-pounder,” says Jaimes. “That’s the weight I want to be at and the weight I’ve fought at. But in my last fight I had a bad weight cut and came in at 139. We worked it out with the opponent and everything went through. So I was 139 for my last fight. We received a couple calls while I was on my break after that last fight. I had been training since this past February. I fought in March, I was supposed to fight in May and then I had that fight in July. So I was training pretty much the whole first half of the year. I was on my break and feeling like I didn’t want to do anything right now. But when I got back to the gym from my break, they said they had got a couple calls for fights at 140. I pretty much told them I didn’t want to take any fights at 140. But then my promoter Jorge Toscano called me with the Rolly fight, and said, ‘I know you said no fights at 140, but we have this opportunity here and it is on the Canelo card. You’d be opening the pay-per-view…’ And I was like, ‘Damn, let me think about this.’ I decided that it was time. This is the opportunity we’ve been waiting for, so let’s do it.” 

Despite not wanting to give up weight to Charlie Sheehy earlier this year or entertaining other offers for fights at 140-pounds subsequent to the July bout with Jonathan Romero, Jaimes’ team believes the proposed fight with Rolando Romero fit the requirements for an exception.

“One of the things I looked at was that [Romero’s] last two fights were the only ones at 140 and he made that weight,” explains Steve Salas, Jaimes’ head trainer, who has been with the Stockton product since he was 14-years-old. “Prior to that [Romero] actually made the 135-pound limit or less as opposed to Charlie Sheehy, who was a “lightweight,” but always had fought above that limit.”   

With the fight set for September 14th, Jaimes took part in some of the media blitz over the last week. With little national exposure, outside of YouTube-available streams, Jaimes was an unfamiliar face to much of the boxing media covering the festivities.  

“I have been more of a local fighter, so I am known here in the Bay Area, but I am not really known [outside of the region,] so even at the press conference, not many people knew who I was,” explains Jaimes. “A lot of people were doing interviews and I was basically just there. So I haven’t had a lot of people coming to me and asking me stuff. A couple people have, but not too many.”

When Jaimes found himself in the presence of Romero for the first time since signing for the bout, during the press tour last week, the Stockton prospect found a more subdued Rolly than maybe he had expected. 

“I know the first time we locked eyes, it felt like he knew who I was, and I know who he is,” says Jaimes. “During the face-off, he didn’t say anything and I thought he would have. During the press conference, there was not too much trash talk and I expected a little more. I think it is because I am not well-known, so it is probably harder to find something to bash me on.” 

Preparing for Romero’s unorthodox style presents challenges. Jaimes seems more intent on testing himself against naturally larger junior welterweights in preparation, while he will draw on prior experience to thwart what Rolly presents in September. 

“I feel it would be hard to find someone to mimic his wild style, but we are going to go down to Riverside again,” said Jaimes on Saturday, referring to the famed camp of Robert Garcia. “I will be leaving in about ten days. I just came back today and sparred with Ebert Diaz. He’s a real solid, big strong guy with the strength of a big 140-pounder.” 

“We have been fortunate enough to have been in the ring with unorthodox boxers before, so it’s not his first time,” says Salas. “At the same time, Manny is going to present some problems that Rolly will have to deal with.” 

Perhaps equally difficult to prepare for, Jaimes will have the adjustment of fighting on the largest stage possible in the sport of boxing. Canelo Alvarez is the biggest gate attraction active in boxing, especially in the United States. Fighting in front of a crowd, that even if many attendees have failed to find their seat by the opening bell, will be the largest of his career, Jaimes understands the gravity of the moment. 

“There is nothing that could compare,” says Jaimes. “This is definitely the biggest stage you could possibly be on: opening a pay-per-view card for Canelo, who is probably top one or two on most people’s pound-for-pound lists right now. To be opening that, I am not sure there are any ways to prepare for that. I just have to try to not let those lights get too bright and stay focused on the task.” 

One of the great aspects of professional boxing is that it is one of the few sports where you can witness an athlete completely change the trajectory of their life in one night, or with just one punch. Jaimes has been building to this moment for six years as a pro and he is determined to take advantage of the opportunity.  

 “I am really excited and I am going to put the performance of my life on in this one,” says Jaimes. “It puts me on the main scene, being put on the card has kind of put me there. But with a win, then you can start throwing my name up there with the top contenders, the guys that are fighting for world titles. This is big. I need this one and I am going to win.” 

Photo by Esther Lin/Premier Boxing Champions 

Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortegajr.mario@gmail.com  

LOS ANGELES – August 6, 2024 – Pound-for-pound great and Mexican superstar Canelo Álvarez and undefeated Puerto Rican knockout artist Edgar Berlanga squared off Tuesday at a press conference in Los Angeles to preview their upcoming showdown as Canelo Promotions presents a Mexican Independence Day weekend extravaganza headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video taking place Saturday, Sept. 14 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The press conference also featured Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara and hard-hitting two-division world champion and Puerto Rican star Danny “Swift” García as they previewed their 12-round co-main event between two of this era’s most accomplished fighters.

Also in attendance Tuesday were former IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb Plant and surging unbeaten Trevor McCumby, who square off for the currently vacant Interim WBA Super Middleweight Title in a pay-per-view attraction, plus former world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and hard-hitting Manuel Jaimes, who meet in a 10-round super lightweight clash that opens the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The main event showdown will deliver the latest chapter in the long boxing rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico with the fighting pride of Mexico in Canelo Álvarez defending his unified WBC, WBA and WBO Super Middleweight World Titles against Puerto Rico’s Edgar Berlanga, the WBA’s No. 1-Ranked Mandatory Contender. Highlighted by numerous historic matchups including Salvador Sánchez vs. Wilfredo Gómez and Julio César Chávez Sr. vs. Héctor Camacho, Canelo is no stranger to this heated rivalry, having defeated Puerto Rican Hall of Famer Miguel Cotto in one of the biggest Mexico vs. Puerto Rico fights in recent memory.

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

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

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Tuesday from the Beverly Hills Hotel as Canelo and Berlanga exchanged heated verbal sparring during their face offs and throughout the Q&A portion of the event:

CANELO ÁLVAREZ

“I respect my opponents, but I like to respond when they talk. I’m going to be at my best on September 14 and I’m not gonna have any compassion for him. I’m going to be different. He needs 20 of him to give me any problems.

“I motivate myself because I love what I do. But this type of fight, and these types of fighters who talk to me like that, it motivates me even more. It gets me excited. I’m going to train like never before to win everything on September 14.

“I’m proud to represent my country, especially on days like Mexican Independence Day and especially in a Mexico vs. Puerto Rico matchup. I’m going to represent my country in fashion on September 14.

“Take it easy man, because your turn is coming. He thinks he has more intelligence than me and everyone I’ve fought. C’mon bro, he’s not gonna be able to touch me. I wanna see him try.”

EDGAR BERLANGA

“I’m blessed to have this opportunity to be in the ring with a legend. This is going to be a night for the history books. Mexico vs. Puerto Rico fights at this magnitude stay in the history books forever.

“I’m the type of fighter who comes to fight. I won’t be running. Canelo was once in my shoes and now it’s my time to make my name and become a legend in the sport of boxing.

“This is gonna be a firefight. It’s gonna be different. This is a gladiator sport at the end of the day. We’re looking to take each other out. It’s going to the next level.

“He’s fought everybody and he’s seen it all. The difference in this fight isn’t physical. It’s about IQ and intelligence in that ring. That’s gonna make the difference. You could have all the power in the world, but at this level, it’s about intelligence.

“On September 14, it’s fireworks. He sees it in my eyes. I’m never scared. I’m coming to take his spot in this sport.”

ERISLANDY LARA

“This is going to be a great fight on September 14. I’m 100% ready to get back in there and defend my world title.

“I’m still at this level because I’m always focused, inside and outside of the ring. I want to keep giving the fans great fights, just like I always have.

“Styles make fights and that’s the reason we chose Danny Garcia. He’s a strong fighter. We want this to be a high-quality bout and I believe that’s what will happen on September 14.

“I’m going to be the winner. 100%. No matter how it happens. I’m going to go in there, do my thing and end up with my hand raised.”

DANNY GARCIA

“I have a tough task ahead of me in Lara. I’m chasing greatness, because he’s a champion just like me. It’s going to be a legendary night.

“A lot of people don’t know that I’m a little big guy. I’ve always sparred with bigger people and I always thought I could go up to 160 pounds. I don’t think the weight will matter at all. If the greats can do it, I can do it too. I feel like I’m cut from that same cloth.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to be a three-division world champion. Only so many boxers can say that. The opportunity is here now. Lara has contributed a lot to the sport of boxing like I have. It’s two battle-tested warriors trying to make history. I feel like if I come out on top, this win can put me in the Hall of Fame.

“I’m excited to showcase my skills. People ask why I didn’t take a warmup fight, but when you look this good, you go straight to the top.”

CALEB PLANT

“We have a stacked card on September 14. I’ve been using my time wisely and I’m proud to say that you’ll see the best Caleb Plant of my career on September 14.

“Trevor wants to be part of the big leagues. What he thinks he’s gonna get and what he’s actually gonna get are way different.

“I live by the sword and die by the sword. Make sure you save that money Trevor, because this is gonna be your first and your last payday.

“On September 14 I get my hand raised in fashion. This is his first and last opportunity.”

TREVOR MCCUMBY

“We’re here. We’re training really really hard and I’m gonna show everyone what I’m all about on September 14.

“I’m not really concerned about what Caleb says or what he does. I think he’s kind of insecure. I’m a grown man and I conduct myself a certain way. We’re definitely gonna see on September 14. I’m not sleeping in silk sheets, he is.

“We’ll see if he gets on his bike or if he wants to fight in the center of the ring. I’m ready and I’m training hard. I promise you this is gonna be a great fight.”

ROLANDO ROMERO

“A lot of people fold when they see the big lights. He’s a puncher, so we have to be ready for him and see how he does in this big moment.

“This is gonna be the ‘Rolly’ show once again on September 14. Don’t miss it.

“I’m ready to give everyone a great show once again. I’m excited to be here and get right back into the ring.”

MANUEL JAIMES

“I know I’m a new face and I’m honored to be here with fighters that I watched growing up. But I’m not going to let the moment get too big. I have a tough opponent in front of me and we’re coming for the win.

“He’s been in more big fights, but I’ve been fighting since I was eight years old. I’ve trained in Robert Garcia’s gym and gotten a lot of rounds there. There won’t be a difference in our boxing IQ’s. I’m coming to win this fight and I know I’m gonna win this fight.

“I grew up watching all the big cards on Mexican Independence Day Weekend, so to be able to open the pay-per-view on September 14 is a dream come true. 

“If he’s overlooking me, that’s perfect. I’m coming ready.”

EDDY REYNOSO, Canelo’s Manager & Trainer

“Mexico vs. Puerto Rico is always a war. This is going to be another great chapter in a story between two countries who are very proud.

“When you’re disciplined, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Canelo is even hungrier than he was before and that focus has brought him to where he is today.

“Canelo and Berlanga will both bring their best. But Canelo is still here, and he’s here to stay. We’ll see everyone on September 14.”

MARC FARRAIT, Berlanga’s Trainer

“We know we’re going up against an all-time great. We have our work cut out for us, but Edgar is more than ready. I tell Edgar that Canelo was in his position at one time, so we can’t come with what we’ve been coming with, it’s gotta be something special.

“Eddy Reynoso is a great trainer and that just makes me work harder. Canelo said he’s not gonna have compassion on September 14, and I’ve been saying that since we’ve been in camp. I tell Edgar that we have to be ready for war, and I know he’s ready.

“It’s no coincidence that Edgar’s first title shot will be against a legend. That’s a blessing. He has to take that extremely seriouslys. There have been so many trainers who stood here before and talked about how they can beat Canelo, and lost. So instead, we just have to keep working, because we know that in order to be great, we have to beat a great.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“This really is a special event on Mexican Independence Day Weekend. That weekend always means that there’s a huge boxing event in Las Vegas. Canelo is boxing’s biggest star and he proudly represents a hard-working country with two major public holidays a year where his legions of fans get to come out and watch him fight. On September 14, the Mexican and Puerto Rican fans will be in for a great fight, because national pride will be on the line.”

#         #         #

ABOUT CANELO VS. BERLANGA

Canelo vs. Berlanga will deliver the latest installment of the historic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry as Canelo Promotions presents pound-for-pound great and Mexican superstar Canelo Álvarez putting his unified WBC, WBA and WBO Super Middleweight World Titles on the line against undefeated WBA No. 1-Ranked Mandatory Contender Edgar Berlanga headlining a Mexican Independence Day weekend extravaganza topping a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video taking place Saturday, Sept. 14 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The star-studded co-main event will feature Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara taking on hard-hitting two-division world champion and Puerto Rican star Danny “Swift” García in a 12-round showdown between two of this era’s most accomplished fighters.

Plus, former super middleweight world champion Caleb Plant will take on undefeated contender Trevor McCumby for the Interim WBA Super Middleweight Title, while the former 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero steps into the ring against the hard-hitting Manuel Jaimes in a 10-round bout opening the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

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

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

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

LAS VEGAS – July 25, 2024 – Pound-for-pound great and Mexican superstar Canelo Álvarez will put his unified WBC, WBA and WBO Super Middleweight World Titles on the line against undefeated WBA No. 1-Ranked Mandatory Contender Edgar Berlanga as Canelo Promotions presents a Mexican Independence Day weekend extravaganza headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video taking place Saturday, Sept. 14 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

This showdown will deliver the latest chapter in the long boxing rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico with the fighting pride of Mexico in Canelo Álvarez dueling Puerto Rico’s Edgar Berlanga. Highlighted by numerous historic matchups including Salvador Sánchez vs. Wilfredo Gómez and Julio César Chávez Sr. vs. Héctor Camacho, Canelo is no stranger to this heated rivalry, having defeated Puerto Rican Hall of Famer Miguel Cotto in one of the biggest Mexico vs. Puerto Rico fights in recent memory.

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

The star-studded co-main event will feature Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara taking on hard-hitting two-division world champion and Puerto Rican star Danny “Swift” García in a 12-round showdown between two of this era’s most accomplished fighters.

Pre-sale tickets are available Monday, July 29 from 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com by using the code: PBC. The public on-sale is scheduled for Tuesday, July 30 at 10 a.m. PT with tickets available through AXS.com.

The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Matchroom Boxing.

“Every day we are preparing,” said Eddy Reynoso, Canelo’s manager and trainer. “We know that Berlanga is a good fighter, a strong, undefeated fighter. The confrontations within boxing between Mexico and Puerto Rico are always intense fights, very morbid fights and, above all, very good boxing. Puerto Rico has produced many world champions and hall of fame fighters. Mexico has done the same. It is going to be a very attractive fight against a great fighter in Berlanga who’s undefeated and faced some of the best fighters competing at 168 pounds over the last few years.”

“I’m excited for my guy, Edgar Berlanga, to get a shot at the king of boxing Canelo Álvarez,” said Keith Connolly, Berlanga’s manager. “I want to thank all the players involved in helping me get this deal over the line. Canelo vs. Berlanga is renewing the Mexico vs Puerto Rico rivalry, which is the best in boxing history. Sept. 14 is a can’t miss event for fans around the world.”

“Mexican Independence Day weekend is synonymous with big Canelo Álvarez fights, and Saturday, Sept. 14 will be the next chapter of that historic story,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Canelo has long reigned as the 168-pound king and will put his three unified world titles up against a young, power-punching contender in Edgar Berlanga as he looks to once again score a victory for his home country in the storied rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico. With the addition of the Erislandy Lara vs. Danny García world championship battle in the co-main event, plus more matchups to come, everything lines up for an event worthy of the holiday weekend live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in another stacked PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video.”

“Edgar Berlanga’s nickname is the Chosen One and I’m so happy he got the golden pick for Sept. 14,” said Eddie Hearn, Chairman of Matchroom Boxing. “This is the fight we dreamed about when we signed Edgar last year and he is ready to give everything for himself, his family and for Puerto Rico. You have a young, unbeaten, fearless puncher ready to tackle one of the all-time greats – get ready for drama in Las Vegas!”

*CANELO ÁLVAREZ VS. EDGAR BERLANGA*

The reigning WBC, WBA and WBO Super Middleweight World Champion, Canelo Álvarez will look to continue his run at the top of the super middleweight division, this time against the undefeated Edgar Berlanga, who earned the WBA’s No. 1 ranking at 168-pounds and who will look to make a monumental splash while representing his Puerto Rican heritage in the biggest fight of his career to date.

Having captured world titles at 154, 160, 168 and 175 pounds, Canelo (61-2-2, 39 KOs) steps back into the ring after dropping countryman Jaime Munguía in May on his way to a unanimous decision win. The fighting pride of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Canelo became undisputed at super middleweight in November 2021 by taking the IBF belt from then unbeaten Caleb Plant via an 11^th-round TKO, eventually going on to successfully defend all four titles four times. After dropping a light heavyweight title fight against Dmitriy Bivol in May 2022, Canelo rebounded to defeat Gennadiy Golovkin in their Sept. 2022 trilogy fight before besting John Ryder and Jermell Charlo in 2023. Under the guidance of his renowned manager and trainer Eddy Reynoso, Canelo has triumphed over a long list of elite fighters since turning pro at just 15-years-old in 2005, including Golovkin, Charlo, Shane Mosley, Erislandy Lara, Miguel Cotto and Sergey Kovalev, to name a few. Outside of the Bivol fight, Canelo’s only other defeat came against undefeated legend Floyd Mayweather in Sept. 2013.

“I am very happy for this fight between Mexico and Puerto Rico,” said Álvarez. “It’s exciting to be part of another great Mexico vs. Puerto Rico battle inside the ring because historically we have always offered unforgettable fights full of passion. I am proud to contribute to this legacy and facing an opponent like Edgar Berlanga adds even more excitement and meaning to this event.”

A native of Brooklyn, NY who proudly represents his Puerto Rican roots, Berlanga (22-0, 17 KOs) first grabbed the attention of the boxing world by knocking out his first 16 opponents in round one after turning pro in 2016. The 27-year-old continued to rack up victories after his first-round KO streak ended, defeating a slew of tough veterans including Demond Nicholson, Marcelo Cóceres, Steve Rolls and Alexis Angulo. Berlanga has continued to show impressive power to match his improving skills in his last two fights as he dropped Jason Quigley four times on his way to a 12-round unanimous decision in June 2023, before most recently stopping the previously undefeated Padraig McCrory in round six this past February. Berlanga turned pro after sporting a stellar 162-17 amateur record and is trained by his longtime trainer Marc Farrait.

“First and foremost, I want to thank the good Lord for putting me in this position,” said Berlanga. “This is the opportunity of a lifetime. I deserve to be here, and I’m going to shock the world and silence the critics by delivering a masterful performance and knocking out Canelo Álvarez on Sept. 14. I will prove that my Puerto Rican heritage surpasses Mexican boxing, from Gómez to Trinidad to Cotto, and now to Berlanga. I will reclaim what is rightfully ours. I’m ready to make this a historic firefight, continuing the greatest rivalry in boxing: Puerto Rico vs Mexico. Vamos arriba, puñeta!”

*ERISLANDY LARA VS. DANNY GARCÍA*

Pitting two fighters with more world championship experience than almost anyone else in this era of boxing, with a combined 24 appearances in world title fights, the co-main event will feature Cuban star Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara facing two-division world champion and Puerto Rican star Danny “Swift” García in a high-stakes matchup for Lara’s WBA Middleweight World Championship.

Lara (30-3-3, 18 KOs) has been dominant in his run at 160-pounds, showing off his ability to go toe-to-toe and end a fight with one punch, after establishing himself as one of boxing’s best technical fighters throughout the first part of his career. He captured his WBA title with a first-round knockout of Thomas LaManna in May 2021, before KO’ing Gary O’Sullivan in May 2022 and most recently sparking out Michael Zerafa in round two in March. Prior to his middleweight exploits, Lara was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a 2018 title unification match that earned “Fight of the Year” from the BWAA. Lara returned from that fight and battled former 154-pound world titleholder Brian Castaño to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. He faced a slew of the top 154-pounders in the sport, including Canelo Álvarez, ahead of his middleweight debut.

“My fight with Danny García will be a classic battle between two legendary fighters of our era,” said Lara. “We’ve both faced the best, have impressive resumes and have competed at the top level for a long time. I’m excited for this fight. I encourage all my Mexican fans to tune in on Mexican Independence Day, bring your flags and support this great event. I will represent not only Cuba, but also Mexico on this day against Puerto Rico. To everyone watching at T-Mobile Arena and on the pay-per-view on Prime Video, you will witness greatness in the ring throughout the action-packed night of boxing. I look forward to putting on a show and being the first to knock out Danny García. This will be an epic showdown!”

A world champion at 140 and 147 pounds, García (37-3, 21 KOs) owns one of the sport’s most impressive resumes as he now seeks to add a middleweight world title to his list of accomplishments. In his last fight, he put on a stellar performance at 154 pounds, keeping José Benavídez Jr. at bay on his way to a 12-round decision victory. The Philadelphia native has proudly represented his Puerto Rican heritage throughout a career that includes a run through the super lightweight division that saw him defeat a string of champions including Erik Morales, Amir Khan, Zab Judah, Lucas Matthysse, Nate Campbell and Kendall Holt. As a welterweight, he added triumphs over Lamont Peterson, Paulie Malignaggi, and Robert Guerrero, defeating Guerrero for a vacant title in 2016. García’s campaign at welterweight included narrow defeats to some of the sport’s most talented and rugged fighters in Keith Thurman, Shawn Porter, and then unbeaten unified champion Errol Spence Jr.

“This is a legacy fight and an opportunity to win a championship in my third weight class,” said García. “Lara is a great champion who’s been around for a while, but so have I. On Sept. 14, I’m bringing the Danny García show to Las Vegas and making it a historic night.”

#         #         #

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

Las Vegas (March 26, 2024) – Boxing Star and NABO Super Middleweight champion Edgar Berlanga has confirmed that he will appear at the Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 4, 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Jaime Munguia, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Berlanga will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs and Canelo vs. GGG III.

Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite -https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

Berlanga will make his first appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Berlanga will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy. Boxing fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing star also known as the “The Chosen One”.

Berlanga joins Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Roy Jones Jr., Erik Morales, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Juan Manuel Marquez, Michael Spinks, Claressa Shields and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

About Edgar Berlanga

Edgar Berlanga is the current NABO Super Middleweight champion. Although born in Brooklyn New York, Berlanga feels very connected to his parent’s native land of Puerto Rico. Berlanga began boxing at the age of seven. His childhood idol was Puerto Rican boxing legend Felix “Tito” Trinidad, which inspired Berlanga to work hard and gather an impressive amateur record of 162 wins with 17 losses. Berlanga won bronze (2013) and gold (2015) in the US Youth National Championships. Nicknamed “The Chosen One”, Berlanga turned pro in 2016, in Mexico and began his professional career with 16 consecutive first round knockouts, which burst him into the scene and made him an instant attraction.

Berlanga is one of the most exciting fighters in the world, with a record of 22 wins, no losses with 17 knockouts, making him one of the biggest Stars in boxing. He’s an all-around fan favorite, with a huge Puerto Rican fan base and draws big numbers at the gate. Berlanga has recently signed with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, and is primed for a major opportunity against Canelo Alvarez in the near future. This showdown would be the next in the long line of historical fights between Puerto Rican and Mexican fighters.

?About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Fernando Vargas, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Claressa Shields, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

HOUSTON, TX (February 26, 2024) – In a bold statement, undefeated WBA World Champion David Morrell Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs) has declared that rising star Edgar Berlanga (22-0, 17 KOs), who is fresh off his sixth-round knockout over Padraig McCrory (18-1, 9 KOs), is nowhere near his level and that he would dispatch him in just one round if given the chance.

Morrell Jr., coming off a string of impressive victories, since his dominant performance over Alantez Fox to capture the WBA World title, minced no words in his assessment of Berlanga’s recent success.

“Berlanga is simply not on my level,” said Morrell Jr. “I’ve watched his fights, and I see nothing that worries me. Berlanga sucks, and I would destroy him. If we ever step into the ring together, I’ll knock him out in one round, guaranteed.”

With his sights set on solidifying his status as one of the most formidable champions in the division, Morrell Jr. remains fearless by any challenge that comes his way.

“I’m here to prove that I’m the best,” concluded Morrell Jr. “Whether it’s Berlanga, or anyone else, I’ll be ready to step into the ring and show the world what I’m made of. I’m the best fighter in the super middleweight division, and soon everyone will know that.”

As anticipation builds for his next move, fans eagerly await Morrell Jr.’s next title defense, eager to witness his explosive talents in action once again.

Edgar Berlanga scored an impressive sixth round stoppage over Padraig McCrory in a 12-round super middleweight bout of undefeated fighters at the Caribe Royale

In round six, a little cut developed over the right eye of Berlanga. Late in the round, Berlanga landed two crushing right’s with the second being flush on the chin that put McCrory down and badly hurt. As McCrory tried to get up, his corner threw in the towel at 2:44.

Berlanga, 167.8 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 22-0 with 17 knockouts. McCrory, 167.8 lbs of Belfast, NI is 18-1.

Andy Cruz Decisions Zamarripa

Ballyhooed prospect Andy Cruz won a 10-round unanimous decision over Brayan Zamarripa in a lightweight bout.

In round six, Zamarripa began to bleed around his left eye.

Cruz landed 240 of 611 punches. Zamarripa was 34 of 247.

Cruz, 135 lbs of Mantanzas, CUB won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 3-0. Zamarripa, 135 lbs of Ensenada, MEX is 14-3.

Giyasov Defeats Cano By Technical Decision

Shakhram Giyasov defeated Pablo Cesar Cano via technical unanimous decision when Cano was injured after the 11th round of their 12-rund welterweight fight.

In round three, Giyasov dropped Cano with a vicious left hook to the body.

At the end of round 11, Giyasov dropped Cano after the bell. It was ruled no-knockdown, but Cano hurt his leg and could not continue. The fight went to the scorecards.

Giyasov landed 109 of 466 punches. Cano was 82 of 431.

The scorecards read 109-99 on all cards for Giyasov, 146.8 lbs of Uzbekistan and is now 15-0. Cano, 146.2 lbs of Mexico is 35-9-1.

Antonio Vargas Stops Jonathan Rodriguez in a War

Antonio Vargas stopped Jonathan in eight seven-packed round in a 12-round bantamweight fight.

In round one, Rodriguez connected with an overhand right to the chin that put Vargas on the canvas. In round two, the right eye of Rodriguez began to swell. Later in the round, Vargas began to land some hard combinations and was able to even up the fight sending Rodriguez to a knee. The score was short lived as Vargas hit Rodriguez while he was down and was deducted two points. In round four, a left hook by Rodriguez buckled Vargas.

At the end of round eight, Vargas unloaded a huge left hook that was followed by a right hand that put Rodriguez on the deck. Rodriguez got to his feet, went to the corner and the fight was wisely stopped.

Vargas, 117.6 lbs of Kissimmee, FL is 18-1 with 10 knockouts. Rodriguez, 118 lbs of Bethlehem, PA is 17-2-1.

Yankiel Rivera Decisions Andy Dominguez

In a fantastic bout of undefeated flyweights, Yankiel Rivera held on to win a 10-round unanimous decision over Andy Dominguez.

Rivera cut up and shut the right eye of Dominguez, but in round nine Dominguez made a furious rally and hurt Rivera on at least two occasions. Rivera was hanging on and was reeling back. Rivera was able to get out of the round and go the distance and win by 99-91 on all catds.

Rivera, 111.8 lbs of Toa Alta, PR is now 5-0. Dominguez, 111.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 10-1.

Joseph Fernandez won an eight-round unanimous decision over Aaron Aponte in a super lightweight fight.

In round seven, Fernandez was cut along the right eyebrow from a headbutt.

Fernandez, 140.4 lbs of Saint Petersburg, FL won by scores of 78-74 twice and 77-75 and is now 18-5-3. Aponte, 141 lbs of Hialeah, FL is 8-2-1.

4 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest
 
Herich Ruiz (223.4lbs) vs.       Joshua Brice (N/A)
Isla de la Juventud, Cuba        Baltimore, Maryland 
 
Followed by
 
8 x 3 mins Super-Lightweight contest
 
Aaron Aponte (141lbs)           vs.       Joseph Fernandez (140.4lbs)
Hialeah, Florida                                   Saint Petersburg, Florida
 
LIVE ON DAZN FROM 7PM ET
 
12 x 3 mins WBA and WBC Continental Americas Flyweight titles
 
Yankiel Rivera (111.8lbs) vs. Andy Dominguez (111.6lbs)
Toa Alta, Puerto Rico              Las Vegas, Nevada
 
Followed by
 
12 x 3 mins eliminator for the WBA World Bantamweight title
 
Antonio Vargas (117.6lbs)     vs.        Jonathan Rodriguez (118lbs)
Kissimmee, Florida                             Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico
 
Followed by
 
12 x 3 mins eliminator for the WBA World Welterweight title
 
Shakhram Giyasov (146.8lbs) vs.       Pablo Cesar Cano (146.2lbs)
Bukhara, Uzbekistan                           Tlalnepantla de Baz Edomex, Mexico
 
Followed by     
 
10 x 3 mins IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American Lightweight titles.
 
Andy Cruz (135lbs)     vs.        Brayan Zamarripa (135lbs)
Mantanzas, Cuba        Ensenada, Mexico
 
Followed by
 
12 x 3 mins WBO NABO Super-Middleweight title
 
Edgar Berlanga (167.8lbs) vs. Padraig McCrory (167.8lbs) 
Brooklyn, New York                Belfast, Northern Ireland

Eddie Hearn
 
“Welcome to Orlando ahead of a huge night of boxing at Caribe Royale live on DAZN around the world, top class match-ups from top to bottom, headlined by Edgar Berlanga, looking for a shot at the the World championship, but chasing him is Padraig McCrory, two huge punchers, labeled ‘Shootout’ on Saturday night, and it really will be.
 
“There are 50-50 matchups across the board, leading off with Yankiel Rivera in a huge step-up against Andy Dominguez in a Puerto Rico vs. Mexico clash, there’s Puerto Rico vs. Puerto Rico as Antonio Vargas takes on Jonathan Rodriguez, who broke our hearts by knocking out Kal Yafai, and the eliminator for the World Welterweight title as Shakhram Giyasov takes on big punching Pablo Cesar Cano. 
 
“I get told off for shouting my mouth about fighters sometimes but let’s be honest, Andy Cruz is a potential pound-for-pound great. He is one of the greatest amateurs of a generation and he’s moving like a train in the paid ranks, he’s in his third fight but he’s stepped up every time and last time out he demolished Jovanni Straffon to become IBF International Lightweight champion on the Devin Haney-Regis Prograis card. I believe he’s a couple of fights away from challenging for a World title and I would put this man in with any 135lber on the planet right now. But Brayan Zamarripa is so tough, we saw him in an incredible fight in Tijuana with Angel Fierro, a fight that could have gone either way on the cards. He was in tears in the dressing room afterwards and I said we would give him another opportunity, and that opportunity is a huge one but a huge one but a tough one against Andy.
 
“And our main event, a fantastic fight between two huge punchers in the 168lb division. Padraig is looking to beat Edgar and land a dream shot for the World championship, but Edgar is one of the rising stars in boxing and comes into this having filled up The Theater at Madison Square Garden last time out and looking for his own World title shot. 
 
“Canelo Alvarez is without an opponent on May 4 currently and we will put Edgar’s name into the hat with an impressive performance on Saturday night, but Padraig has other ideas.”
 
Edgar Berlanga (21-0 16 KOs) defends his WBO NABO Super-Middleweight title against Padraig McCrory
 
“We don’t overlook anyone. Padraig is a tough guy, he’s coming from Ireland, he’s undefeated, he’s coming from the bottom just like I am, and we’re ready.
 
“Every fighter is going to come to try to beat me, and we know that. I know that the competition is getting heavier and tougher, so we’ve prepped very well in this camp. At this level, anything can happen, and we understand that. In the Super-Middleweight division, you can have no power but when you put ten-ounce gloves on, anybody can punch. So, we’ve taken him very seriously and I’m happy that he took the fight. 
 
“At this time, Saturday is my focus, Padraig McCrory. I don’t give a f**k about Canelo, Munguia, it’s this man across from me that’s trying to take my ‘0’, so I have to put my focus on him and handle my business and then eventually, we can focus on those guys. 
 
“We come from the slums too, I haven’t had it all nice. When I turned pro, no-one wanted to sign me, my first three fights were in Mexico. He’s Irish, we’re Puerto Rico, we get it popping. It’s statement season. Superstar week, because I have to shine. Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, they sell out a lot of fights because it’s Puerto Rico vs. the Irish, and I take my hat off to the Irish fighters because they are tough, and they come to fight.”
 
Padraig McCrory (18-0 9 KOs) challenges Edgar Berlanga for the WBO NABO Super-Middleweight title
 
“I want to thank you, Matchroom and Mick and Jamie with Conlan Boxing for this massive opportunity. It’s the biggest fight of my career and I have trained like it is. Now it is up to me on Saturday night to put on a show.
 
“There’s been a lot of work going on for me, I started in 2017, I’m 35 and people are questioning why only 18 fights. But I didn’t fight until I was 29, and then COVID happened. So I have been very busy, I’ve built my career to this point and people believe in me, but the main thing is that I believe in myself and that this is the platform and opportunity that I need.
 
“He’s a very good fighter. He’s the main event, the star, it’s the Berlanga show and I’m just here to show up, I’m just a guy from West Belfast, no-one expects anything from me. But I think I have got what it takes to win this fight, we’ve trained hard and meticulously gone through tactics so whether it’s Game A, B or C, we’re ready for what he bring.
 
“He fights the way he fights so if I don’t put in place what we have planned, it’s a very tough fight. I’ve been screaming for this opportunity, Matchroom and DAZN is the biggest platform for me in the sport, and now it’s here I have to show up.”
 
Andy Cruz (2-0 1 KO) defends his IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American Lightweight titles.
 
“I’m always ready. Yes, there is pressure, yes, there are nerves, but I see that as a positive and in fact, when I am feeling that way, I am at my most dangerous. I am prepared for the fight, and it’s one thing to sit here and say you are going to do what you say you will do, as we all have the same objectives, but another thing is doing.
 
“As a boxer we all have goals. I hear a lot of what is going on around me but I don’t listen to it too much because ultimately, I am the person that has the final word in the ring, so I just want to demonstrate that I do belong at this level and I can go on and face the best. 
 
“I feel that I really progressing well in this kind of new style of boxing. With every camp I have I progress even more and that’s thanks to my great gym mates and my trainer. You are starting to see a more complete Andy Cruz, a more complete boxer, and on Saturday I am going to demonstrate those qualities and I think you are going to see a mix of Cuban boxing fused with Philadelphia.” 
 
Brayan Zamarripa (14-2 5 KOs) challenges Andy Cruz for the IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American titles.
 
“Thank you for keeping your word, Eddie. As a good Mexican, I come here to leave everything in the ring and that will be no exception. I am coming here to get the victory and to take those belts home. The fight with Fierro is in the past now, I am here to get the win and don’t be surprised to see me take those belts on Saturday night.
 
“Andy has a lot of experience as an amateur, but I also have that, so I can box off the front foot or the back foot, but one thing that’s for sure is that I am taking home those titles.
 
“I’m here to take this opportunity, this is my moment, and I won’t let it pass me by. I am ready to face anyone, whether it’s the best Olympian out there or the best fighter, I am ready for the best.”
 
Shakhram Giyasov (14-0 9 KOs) faces Pablo Cesar Cano in an eliminator for the WBA World Welterweight title
 
“For me it’s a good fight, a big fight, it’s one step from being in a World title fight. I am ready, but I am always ready because I am born to be here. I love boxing and I want to put on a good show for the fans.
 
“I know he’s got power, a good punch, but I am faster, I am smarter, and I am ready.”
 
Pablo Cesar Cano (35-8-1 25 KOs) faces Shakhram Giyasov in an eliminator for the WBA World Welterweight title 
 
“It’s great to be back on such a big card, it’s almost like the phoenix rising from the flames, I am coming back. This won’t be the exception. I am prepared and ready for the war.
 
“I always love to go in and trade, to have a war. I think he is exactly the same so I think that this might steal the show on Saturday.”
 
Antonio Vargas (17-1 9 KOs) faces Jonathan Rodriguez in an eliminator for the WBA World Bantamweight title
 
“It’s a big opportunity for me and I’m very thankful to be here. I am looking forward to Saturday night and the chance to display my skills. This is my hometown, so I am looking forward to giving the fans a good fight and make sure you get your money’s worth.
 
“The loss definitely helped me to grow build character and strengthen me, I learnt a lot from it. I corrected a lot of the mistakes from it and it’s just a hunger I have because I know I belong where these top guys are at, I am a top fighter, and I am looking to showcase my skills on Saturday night.”
 
Jonathan Rodriguez (17-1-1 7 KOs) faces Antonio Vargas in an eliminator for the WBA World Bantamweight title
 
“This is what it’s all about, taking step-ups to get to where you want to be, which is a World champion. I am one fight away from that, so I am going to do anything and everything I can to come out victorious on Saturday night.
 
“The Kal Yafai fight made me feel good because it made me feel like I belong where I am at now. I am just going to keep doing what I have to do to keep getting the wins and making statements, and to become a World champion.”
 
Yankiel Rivera (4-0 2 KOs) faces Andy Dominguez for the WBA and WBC Continental Americas Flyweight titles
 
“I’ve trained very hard and I’m ready to fight and to win. We’re ready for this, we’ve had a really good camp. We know Andy is a really good fighter, but I love challenges, they are what I live for.”
 
Andy Dominguez (10-0 5 KOs) faces Yankiel Rivera for the WBA and WBC Continental Americas Flyweight titles
 
“He’s a good fighter, he’s an Olympian, I’ve had more professional fights than him, so I feel like this is an even fight. It’s Puerto Rico vs. Mexico and you know how that goes, so it’s going to be a good fight.” 

Edgar Berlanga hopes that Padraig McCrory backs up his words and comes to fight when the pair clash at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida on Saturday night (February 24), live worldwide on DAZN.
 
Berlanga (21-0 16 KOs) faces the Belfast man after beating Irishman Jason Quigley in June at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. The Puerto Rican star has vowed to pick up where he left off in the final round where he dropped Quigley for the third and fourth time on the night, as ‘The Chosen One’ looks to cement his spot as a future ruler of the Super-Middleweihgt division.
 
The 26 year old expects McCrory (18-0 9 KOs) to provide the stiffest test of those credentials that he’s faced to date, and after the Belfast man predicted a shoot-out in Orlando, Berlanga hopes that is what McCrory brings in order to provide fans with an explosive night.
 
“He’s my hardest test so far for sure,” said Berlanga. “He’s undefeated, so he’s coming with a different mentality. He’s going to do anything to protect that ‘0’. I never overlook any opponent, I know he’s coming to fight, he has something to prove, and that’s what I like. Every fight we’re stepping up and he is highly ranked, he’s unbeaten, he’s got the same number of fights as me and I think it’s going to be a good test. 
 
“Once he gets touched, I think he’s going to get on his bike. I don’t think he’s going to stay there and want to exchange with me. But we are prepping for anything and everything. So, if he tries to run and move around, box, try to lure me in and throw a sneaky shot, we see that coming. And if he wants to stay there and trade, well, they call him ‘The Hammer’ so he’s supposed to be displaying that, so we’ll see.
 
“My hands will do the talking on Saturday when I am pounding on his face, I hope he’s ready because I am coming with fireworks. When he sees me at the press conference and he looks into my eyes, he’s going to know what’s up. I’m about that action, I pray he comes healthy so we can put an amazing night on for the fans. I’m coming for blood. There’s going to be a lot of heat on him, and he better be prepared, because I’m looking to hurt him and knock him the fuck out.
 
“It was a good fight with Jason. What you have to understand is what McCrory said that it’s a life-changing moment for him. So, these guys are never going to come like they do for any other fight, and it’s like that with Jason. He was in tremendous shape, I dropped him four times and he got crushed in that 12th round but he still got up, he had no quit in him. But these fighters come with a different mentality when they face me, like they do when they face the Canelo’s or the Benavidez’s, that’s the mindset that they have and you hear it in what McCrory is saying, this is a life-changing chance for him. Every fighter is going to feel like that against me.
 
“I love the Irish fans. My manager is Irish. But McCrory has to go, it’s over for him. They will call me the Irish Assassin. The crowd in New York was amazing though, the Irish flags at the Garden, and they are a fighting country just like Puerto Rico, they have that fighting spirit in them.”
 
Berlanga and McCrory clash on a big night of action in Orlando, where the co-feature pits Cuban Lightweight sensation Andy Cruz (2-0 1 KO) against Mexican Brayan Zamarippa (14-2 5 KOs) for the IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American titles.
 
Shakhram Giyasov (14-0 9 KOs) and Pablo Cesar Cano (35-8-1 25 KOs) battle it out in an eliminator for the WBA World Welterweight title, while the main card on DAZN sees another World title eliminator as Antonio Vargas (17-1 9 KOs) and Jonathan Rodriguez (17-1-1 7 KOs) aim to take a step closer to the WBA World Bantamweight crown.
 
Yankiel Rivera (4-0 2 KOs) closes the Before The Bell section of the card with his first title fight as he takes on Andy Dominguez (10-0 5 KOs) for the WBA and WBC Continental Americas Flyweight titles, with Cuban Heavyweight Herich Ruiz (4-0 3 KOs) meets Mitch Williams (16-10-3 11 KOs) over eight rounds and Aaron Aponte (8-1-1 2 KOs) takes on Joseph Fernandez (17-5-3 6 KOs) over eight rounds Super-Lightweight.

Edgar Berlanga believes he’s ready to get back to his spiteful best as he closes in on his crunch showdown with Padraig McCrory at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida on February 24, live worldwide on DAZN.
 
Berlanga (21-0 16 KOs) has promised to kick on from a dominant 12^th round in his last fight against Irishman in Jason Quigley, where he floored the former Olympian twice to put an exclamation mark on a wide points win in New York in June.
 
That fight ended a year’s absence from the ring and was a first fight back with trainer Marc Farrait after four years apart. The 26 year old revealed that his time out and injuries in camp affected him for the Quigley fight, but those knocks are now behind him and with the introduction of highly regarded strength and conditioning coach Angel ‘Memo’ Heredia and a fresh focus in his tight-knit Tampa base, ‘The Chosen One’ feels that he’s in the shape of his life to take on the unbeaten Belfast man McCrory (18-0 9 KOs)
 
“The 12th round of my last fight, I feel like that’s really woken me up,” said Berlanga. “I haven’t missed anything, I know I have got the power to hurt anybody, and I feel different as a fighter, mentally, physically and spiritually. I know that there’s going to be fireworks coming from me on February 24, that’s a fact. I’m coming for the KO. He can say whatever he wants, but at the end of the day we have to go in there and tussle. 
 
“Me at my best, nobody is f**king with me. When I am 100 per cent, which you’ll see on February 24, I am unstoppable. 
 
“I’ve sacrificed a lot, changing my environment, coming to the suburbs and being fully locked in on myself and my craft. I’ve refocused on the small details of my style to bring the best out of me. So, from all that right there, it’s going to be something amazing.
 
“There is jealousy. I’m here in Tampa now and there’s a lot of people out there that were acting like they were my friends, and they weren’t. People that were close to me that were envying me, so I got rid of all those people and I’m just focused on myself and my team, and I feel that with God with me, the sky is the limit and there’s nothing stopping me. 
 
“I’ll be one of the best 168lb fighters in the world. I think that after this fight my name is going to be buzzing again, and people will be talking about me and Canelo in September or Jaime Munguia. I feel those fights are there to be made and it’s time to go capture a belt.
 
“I’m not the guy that fought Jason, and he’s going to see that. I’m getting better and better. I was four years away from Marc before that fight and I went through a lot of injuries in that camp. 
 
“I’m on a different level now physically. I’m sparring 15, 16 rounds with three or four different guys, and I didn’t get a chance to do that in my last camp with the injuries and coming back to camp overweight with the lay-off and not having a promoter, going through some depression in New York. We brought in ‘Memo’ who every knows has worked with the best, and we know we can go 12 strong rounds and go at it hard, and I know that if I do that, no one can stand a chance with me.”
 
Berlanga and McCrory clash on a big night of action in Orlando, where the co-feature pits Cuban Lightweight sensation Andy Cruz (2-0 1 KO) against Mexican Brayan Zamarippa (14-2 5 KOs) for the IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American titles.
 
Shakhram Giyasov (14-0 9 KOs) and Pablo Cesar Cano (35-8-1 25 KOs) battle it out in an eliminator for the WBA World Welterweight title, while the main card on DAZN sees another World title eliminator as Antonio Vargas (17-1 9 KOs) and Jonathan Rodriguez (17-1-1 7 KOs) aim to take a step closer to the WBA Wordl Bantamweigtht crown.
 
Yankiel Rivera (4-0 2 KOs) closes the Before The Bell section of the card with his first title fight as he takes on Andy Dominguez (10-0 5 KOs) for the WBA and WBC Continental Americas Flyweight titles, with Cuban Heavyweight Herich Ruiz (4-0 3 KOs) meets Mitch Williams (16-10-3 11 KOs) over eight rounds and Aaron Aponte (8-1-1 2 KOs) takes on Joseph Fernandez (17-5-3 6 KOs) over eight rounds Super-Lightweight.

Shakhram Giyasov meets Pablo Cesar Cano and Antonio Vargas faces Jonathan Rodriguez in World title eliminators, as hot prospect Yankiel Rivera fights for a first pro title on the undercard of the Super-Middleweight showdown between Edgar Berlanga and Padraig McCrory at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida on Saturday February 24, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS GO ON PRESALE ON WEDNESDAY JANUARY 10 (10AM ET), AND ON GENERAL SALE ON JANUARY 11 (10AM ET) – VISIT MATCHROOMBOXING.COM TO SIGN UP FOR PRESALE

Giyasov (14-0 9 KOs) will look to make his claims for a World Welterweight title shot even louder when the WBA number #1 ranked Welterweight takes on former World title challenger Cano (35-8-1 25 KOs). The Uzbek beat Harold Calderon at a canter in June in New Orleans to make it to 14-0 in the paid ranks, and now seeks victory over the experienced Mexican who has won his last two fights inside the distance and sits at #6 with the WBA at 147lbs.

Vargas (17-1 9 KOs) and Rodriguez (17-1-1 7 KOs) clash in a fascinating eliminator for the WBA 118lb crown. Vargas will be on familiar territory for the biggest fight of his career to date, as the 27 year old steps through the ropes at Caribe Royale for the seventh straight fight, but the #2 ranked Floridian faces a man full of confidence in Puerto Rican Torres, who stunned the boxing world by sending former World champion Kal Yafai into retirement with a first round KO win in Los Angeles in November, and the #4 ranked 24 year old will be eager to build on that impressive showing against Vargas.

Former amateur stud Rivera (4-0 2 KOs) is ready to make his first significant impact on the paid ranks as he looks to get hold of his first belt by taking on Andy Dominguez for the WBA Continental Americas Flyweight title. The Puerto Rican Olympic sensation has already proved to be a hit in his four outings to date, but steps up in both opposition and rounds against the unbeaten Mexican Dominguez (10-0 6 KOs), who also fights for his first belt in the clash.

Florida’s Aaron Aponte (8-1-1 2 KOs) steps through the ropes for the 11^th time in the paid ranks over eight rounds at Super-Lightweight, and Cuban Heavyweight and 2021 World Championship bronze medalist Herich Ruiz (4-0 3 KOs) is back in action over six, with opponents for both fighters to be named soon. 

The bouts announced today feature on a star-studded line-up in Orlando, topped by the clash between explosive unbeaten Super-Middleweights Edgar Berlanga and Padraig McCrory, with the co-feature bout showcasing the continued rise of Cuba’s former Olympic Gold medal hero Andy Cruz, who defends his IBF International Lightweight title against Brayan Zamarippa.

Three February fight nights across the globe kick off what promises to be Matchroom Boxing’s busiest year yet. Crucial domestic clashes, World Title rematches and undefeated vs. undefeated showdowns whet the appetite for fight fans around the world – with all of the action shown exclusively live on DAZN.  

Matchroom’s UK schedule gets underway with a huge rematch at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle on Saturday February 10 as Welterweight rivals Conah Walker and Cyrus Pattinson do battle again following their thrilling clash at the Utilita Arena Birmingham back in August. 

Wolverhampton’s Walker (12-2-1, 4 KOs) sensationally handed former Team GB standout Pattinson (6-1, 4 KOs) the first loss of his professional career, flooring the Alnwich man three times on route to securing the biggest win of his career via an eighth-round stoppage.

All-action Pattinson gets an immediate shot at redemption, this time in front of his home crowd, as he looks to get his promising career back on track by putting his first loss behind him and continuing his climb towards title action in the 147lbs division.

Also featuring on the card is a fourth pro outing for exciting 21 year old Cameron Vuong (3-0 2 KOs) who takes on the experienced Ishmael Ellis (14-7) over eight rounds at Lightweight. 

The following Friday (February 16) Mexico plays host to another must-watch rematch as Adrien Curiel and Sivenathi Nontshinga run it back for the IBF Light-Flyweight World Title following their dramatic first meeting at the Casino de Monte-Carlo last month. 

Mexico’s Curiel (24-4-1, 5 KOs) ripped up the script by scoring a shocking one-punch knockout of South Africa’s defending champion Nontshiunga (12-1, 9 KOs) in the second round of their highly anticipated showdown in Monaco.

The 24-year-old makes the first defence of his World Title on home soil, determined to prove that his stunning knockout of the year contender wasn’t just a one off. Having tasted defeat for the first time in his career, Nontshinga is aiming to recapture his old belt to keep his dreams of unifying the division alive. 

Rising Super-Middleweight star Edgar Berlanga closes out an action-packed February on DAZN as he faces the toughest test of his career in the shape of Belfast’s Padraig McCrory at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida.

‘The Chosen One’ (21-0, 16 KOs) takes on his second Irish opponent in a row after widely outpointing Jason Quigley to retain his WBO NABO Title at New York’s Madison Square Garden Theatre in June. 

Unbeaten McCrory (18-0, 9 KOs) fights in the U.S. for the first time in his career, tasked with the challenge of derailing Berlanga’s rapid rise to the top of the Super-Middleweight division.

Elsewhere, Islington’s John Ryder (32-6, 18 KOs) looks to build on his brilliant showing against pound-for-pound star Canelo Alvarez when he takes on his undefeated compatriot Jaime Munguia (42-0, 33 KOs) at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona on Saturday January 27 – live worldwide on DAZN. 

“2023 has been an incredible year for Matchroom Boxing and our partners DAZN – and we’re not done just yet!” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “We close out the year in incredible fashion next weekend in Saudi Arabia as Anthony Joshua, Dmitry Bivol and Jai Opetaia all star in one of the biggest cards ever put together. However, 2024 promises to be even bigger and better and I’m excited to announce our first three events of the year.

“It’s time for Cyrus Pattinson to show us what he’s made of when he faces Conah Walker in a must-win rematch with his career on the line. Adrien Curiel caused one of the biggest upsets in boxing this year when he sensationally dethroned Sivenathi Nontshinga in Monte-Carlo. He gets the hero’s return to Mexico where he will be looking to end Nontshinga’s dreams of unifying the Light-Flyweight division. ‘The Chose One’ Edgar Berlanga is out to remind everyone why he is rated as one of the very best Super-Middleweights on the planet when he takes on Belfast’s unbeaten Padraig McCrory. Watch all of our action live worldwide on DAZN.”

“After a stacked 2023 seeing the biggest names fighting in the biggest fights, we are delighted to be adding three shows to an already busy 2024”, said Alfie Sharman, VP DAZN. “This year will see new matchups constantly added as we continue to deliver nonstop boxing action to subscribers and fight fans all around the world.” 

Further undercard announcements and ticket details will follow in due course.

Edgar Berlanga remained undefeated with a 12-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Jason Quigley in a super middleweight bout at The Madison Square Garden Theater.

In round three, Berlanga landed a chopping right to the temple of Quigley that put the Irishman down. In round five, Quigley started to bleed from his nose. Later in the round, Quigley went to the canvas after a alight punch landed, but was ruled a knockdown after his feet got tangled with Berlanga’s.

In the final round, Berlanga dropped Quigley with a left hook. Quigley was able to continue, but ate a huge flurry of punches that finally put him down with a right hand in the corner. Quigley was badly hurt but was able to hear the final bell.

Berlanga, 167.8 lbs of Brooklyn, NY won by scores of 118-106 and 116-108 twice and is now 21-0. Quigley, 167.6 lbs of Ballybofey, IRE is now 20-3.

In an old-school heavyweight slugfest, Joe Cusumano gained the biggest win of his career as he stopped Adam Kownacki in round eight of their 10-round bout.

In round one, Cusumano dropped Kownacki with a hard right. The guys stood toe -to-toe wailing away and landing heavy shots.

In round seven, Cusumano battered Kownacki to the point that Kownacki’s corner almost threw in the towel. Kownacki made a heroic comeback in the round as he landed big right hands on Cusumano. In round eight, Cusumano landed some vicious shots on an unsteady Kownacki and the fight was stopped at 2:00.

Cusumano, 238.2 lbs of Danville, VA is 22-4 with 20 lnockouts. Kownacki, 251.8 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 20-4.

Reshat Mati stopped Dakota Linger in round nine of their 10-round super lightweight fight.

Mati was able to fend off the rough and tough Linger by landing plenty of punches to the face. Linger was never in serious trouble, but the accumulation of punches was too much and the Arthur Mercante stopped the bout at 59 seconds.

Mati, 140.6 lbs of Staten Island, New York is now 14-0 with eight knockouts. Linger, Buckhanon, WV 13-6-3.

Yankiel Rivera won an eight-round unanimous decision over Christian Robles in a fight featuring undefeated flyweights.

In round four, Rivera dropped Robles with a left hand.

Rivera, 114.4 lbs of Toa Alta, PR won by scores of 79-72, 78-73 and 77-74 and is now 4-0. Robles, 111.2 lbs of Lakewood, CA is 8-1.

In a battle of undefeated light heavyweights, Khalil Coe stopped Buneet Bisla in round seven of their eight-round bouts.

In the opening seconds of the fight, Coe dropped Bisla with a powerful jab. Later in the round, Coe sent Bisla down again with a booming right hand. Bisla began to bleed from the nose.

In round seven, Coe continued to land some vicious shots include hard uppercuts that rocked the head of Bisla back and the fight was stopped at 2:02.

Coe, 176.2 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is 6-0-1 with four knockouts. Bisla, 173.2 lbs of British Columbia, CAN is 7-1.

Pablo Valdez remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Damian Fernandez in a six-round super welterweight bout.

In round three, Valdez was able to send Fernandez to the canvas with a left hook to the body. In round four, Valdez was able to end things when he Fernandez on a knee from another body shot and the fight was stopped at 54 seconds.

Valdez, 154 lbs of New York is 7-0 with six knockouts. Fernandez, 154 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 14-5.

Ofaciao Falcon remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Pedro Vicente in a lightweight bout.

Falcon, 134.8 lbs of New York won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 10-0. Vicente, 133.6 lbs of Mayaguez, PR is 7-6-1.

Edgar Berlanga (20-0 16 KOs) fights Jason Quigley (20-2 14 KOs): It’s a big night on Saturday. It’s been a year layoff, we’re home with a new promoter, and I am ready to perform. I don’t put too much pressure on myself, other people are trying to say Jason is an easy fight, but I know it’s a difficult fight, we’ve prepared well for that, he’s not going to stand in the middle of the ring, we’ve been prepping well for him, I have a lot of respect for him and his team, but we’re going to handle business.

I want to thank all my fans for buying tickets, another sold out show, it’s a blessing. I feel great, I’m ready to go. For me there are bigger fish out there, the GGGs, the Charlo’s, these are the guys I want to get in the ring with, I feel I am ready and seasoned to get in with them, but I must beat the shit out of Jason Quigley this weekend, that’s what it is. 

Jason Quigley: I back myself all the way. The training that I have done, the stuff that we’ve been through, come through, progressed from; I know I am the better man. Edgar is a great fighter, I’ve come here to win, and that’s going to make it a great fight. But I am the man, I’m here to progress my career and my life.

I’ve been the underdog my whole career and even as an amateur, we’ve been going into the Lion’s Den since day one. I’ve handled hostile environments, it’s nothing to concern me and I have so much belief in myself, my team, the work we have done, I know what can come from winning this fight and that’s what excites me. The only think in my head is Edgar, not any other fighter, it’s just him and Saturday night.

Adam Kownacki (20-3 15 KOs) fights Joe Cusumano (21-4 19 KOs): it’s must-win, but for me my two options are win averagely or win amazingly. I want to look amazing, I’ve had a great camp with Sugar Hill, so we’re ready. I’m in great shape, I want to look brilliant, get the win and get another fight quickly.

I am focused on Saturday, showing the world that in my previous three fights I wasn’t as focused as I should have been, but now you will see the old-new Adam Kownacki. Thank you to Joe for taking the fight, my brother is still selling tickets right now, it’s going to be red and white and all the other colors too. 

Joe Cusumano: it’s a dream come true. It’s been a tough camp, but I am excited for the opportunity, and I am ready to go. Adam is a great fighter, we’re Heavyweights, we’re big punchers, and we’re going to show that. 

Reshat Mati (13-0 7 KOs) fights Dakota Linger (13-5-3 9 KOs): Thank you to Dakota for taking the fight, I’m at the stage of my career where I don’t care who is in front of me, I want big fights and I want to get the job done. Mexico City wasn’t a fun time for me, getting food poisoning and trying to get through the fight. We got the job done and showed that I can get through fights even when I am feeling sick.

This is going to be a good fight, ten good rounds and may the best man win. The Albanian fans are going to be all over MSG, afterwards we’re going to have a party, and, in the arena, I’ll put on a great show for the fans, not just my fans but everyone coming and watching on DAZN.

Dakota Linger: I’m excited to be here and it’s an honor again for the third time in a row. I had three weeks’ notice so we’ve done the best way could, I was already in shape and I’m ready. I’m hoping to make it a good fight for everyone.

Yankiel Rivera (3-0 2 KOs) fights Christian Robles (8-0 3 KOs): I am very happy for the opportunity to come back and fight at MSG again. Last time was great and I’m more than prepared to be back. There are big names in the division, we’re ready for Saturday and getting the win, and then we will see what is next from there.

Christian Robles: I want to thank everyone that’s brought me here to this point, I’m super excited and ready to make a statement. I’ve sparred plenty of World champions and top amateurs at the Wild Card gym, I’ve been in with them all and I am ready for whatever comes next for me. I’m excited to show love to all my Mexican people, we’re going to make sure we represent, let’s go. 

Khalil Coe (5-0-1 3 KOs) fights Buneet Bisla (7-0 3 KOs): I’m excited to be on this card with my neighbors from New York. I don’t care who he has trained with or sparred with; he ain’t them. On Saturday it’s going to be another step forward for me. We’ve made small adjustments, just like you do in a fight, with camp and the weight management, and now we have the recipe. My opponents rise to the occasion, and they come to fight, but I am coming to fight too. We’re going to give the people what they want to see. 

Buneet Bisla – I’ve been ready for this sort of fight for a long time. I’ve been training with the top dogs like David Benavidez, Diego Pacheco, and we’re ready to showcase what we have been working on. This is big. 

Pablo Valdez (6-0 5 KOs) fights Demian Fernandez (14-4 5 KOs): I am so excited to be fighting on the card of my best friend, Edgar Berlanga. Last week my girl was giving birth and our babies’ heart stopped twice, so I was going from the gym to the hospital. Thank God, the baby is OK and we’re all good, but it was a mentally rough time for me, but I am a warrior and I dedicate this fight to my son. 

Oficio Falcon (9-0 6 KOs) fights Pedro Vicente (7-5-1 2 KOs): I’m blessed to have this opportunity and I’m ready. What’s a better fight card to be on than an Edgar Berlanga card as a Puerto Rican fighter? The crowd is going to be amazing, and I am ready to show out, I’m super excited.

Hometown heroes Reshat Mati and Adam Kownacki return to action in the Big Apple as they star on the undercard of undefeated Super-Middleweight sensation Edgar Berlanga’s clash with Jason Quigley at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York on Saturday June 24, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS GO ON PRE-SALE ON MONDAY APRIL 17 AT 12NOON ET AND ON GENERAL SALE ON TUESDAY APRIL 18 AT 12NOON – TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM TICKETMASTER.COM

Mati (13-0 7 KOs) will taste his first action of 2023 and does so in an all-New York clash with Brooklyn’s Wesley Ferrer. Mati picked up his first pro title in Mexico in October, outpointing Eduardo Rodriguez in Mexico City to land the WBC Youth Super-Lightweight strap. The Staten Island starlet will box over the ten round distance for the second time against Ferrer (17-1-1 8 KOs) who crosses the East River in a bid to ruin Mati’s unbeaten record in the biggest fight of his career to date, and first over ten.

“I can’t wait to be back in the ring after my latest layoff,” said Mati. “I’m looking forward to going out there and winning in style and win over the entire crowd at MSG.

“I will have huge support from my Albanian fan base on June 24 and I’ll definitely look to make a statement that night in the 140lb division.”

“This is a great opportunity from Matchroom to fight an undefeated guy like Reshat,” said Ferrer. “He will bring all his Albanian fans to the Garden, and that will only add more fuel to this match-up, because I know my fans will be there to make it a hell of a night for every fan in attendance. Move over, there’s a new sheriff in town.”

Kownacki (20-3 15 KOs) is eager to get back to winning ways, and the popular Brooklyn-based Pole does so in ten round action against Joe Cusumano. Kownacki has history with the famous New York venue as an amateur and a pro, and after a pair of defeats at the hands of Robert Helenius and a reversal in Brooklyn against Ali Demirezen in July. The 34 year old wants to get back to his lofty position he held prior to those defeats, and is targeting a spectacular win over Cusumano (21-4 19 KOs), to get himself back in the Heavyweight mix.

“I am excited to be back at Madison Square Garden,” said Kownacki. “MSG is where I had my first success as a boxer winning the NY Golden Gloves, and my fifth pro fight where I came out victorious and started my run to become a top five Heavyweight. MSG is will once again be the starting point of something special for me, as I resurrect my career.”

“We’re are excited for this opportunity to fight In the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden,” said Cusumano. “Adam is a tough fighter but I’m preparing for war on June 24.”
Mati and Kownacki’s bouts will lead into a main event that sees Berlanga (20-0 16 KOs) fight for the first time under the Matchroom banner after penning a multi-fight deal with Eddie Hearn in February. The Brooklyn-based Puerto Rican ranked #4 with the WBO and IBF, and #6 with the WBA, fights in the Theater for the third bout in a row following wins over Steve Rolls and Roamer Angulo in March and June respectively, and there will be echoes of the spectacular April 2022 showdown between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano with the fans are treated to another Puerto Rico vs. Ireland clash as Ballybofey’s Quigley (20-2 KOs) looks to steal the show.

“I’m excited to be back in my hometown and to perform at the mecca of boxing once again,” said Berlanga. “I want this night to be a historic for my fans and for all the people of Puerto Rico and to witness greatness. 

“I feel like I’m reborn again in the sport signing with Matchroom and getting back to where it all started with my old coach Marc Farrait. I promise it’ll be something big on June 24.

“On June 24, I step into the ring at Madison Square Garden with the confidence that only comes from years of hard work and experience,” said Quigley. “I’m ready to give it my all. The bright lights, the roar of the crowd, there’s no better stage to showcase my skills. 

“I’ve been here before, I’ve fought at the highest levels, and nothing will faze me. My spirit and my intuition will guide me, and I know by putting on my best performance I will come out on top.”

“We’re back in the Big Apple and it’s going to be another great night at the mecca of boxing,” said Hearn. “The Theater always creates a special atmosphere, and it will be a sea of colors and a wall of noise when the Puerto Rican and Brooklyn backers of Edgar mix with the green and gold army of Irish fans roaring on Jason. 

“It’s a big night for Edgar making his Matchroom debut, and he will be looking to put on an explosive display as he sets his stall out to put his name front and center for a clash with Canelo Alvarez; and that’s all the motivation that Jason will need to put on the performance of his life and hand a first defeat to ‘The Chosen One’.

“Many of the prospects that we started out with in the States are now knocking on the door for the biggest fights in the game, and that’s where Reshat wants to be – victory in style would move him to the next level and set up a big second half of 2023. 

“The Heavyweight landscape is always changing, and a run of wins can move you up the rankings and into the spotlight. Adam knows that, and with his incredible support and all-action style, ‘Babyface’ can kickstart another run to the top on June 24.”

Edgar Berlanga remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Alexis Angulo in a super middleweight bout at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York, New York.

Berlanga, 167.6 lbs of Brooklyn, NY won by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 and is now 20-0. Angulo, 160.6 lbs of Pitai, COL is 27-3.

Henry Lebron Decisions Luis Lebron

Henry Lebron won a eight-round unanimous decision over Luis Lebron in a junior lightweight fight.

In round seven, Luis Lebron began to bleed from his mouth.

Henry Lebron, 130 lbs of Aguadilla, PR won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 and is now 16-0. Luis Lebron, 129.8 lbs of San Juan, PR is 18-4-1.

Victor Santillan won a eight-round unanimous decision over Carlos Caraballo in a junior featherweight bout,

In round two, Santillan was cut on his right eyelid from a headbutt.

Santillan, 119.6 of La Romana, DR won by scores of 78-74 twice and 77-75 and is now 12-0. Caraballo, 120.4 lbs of Guayanilla, PR is 15-2.

Dakota Linger shocked Josue Vargas with a second round stoppage in a scheduled eight-round junior welterweight bout.

Linger landed a hard combination that had Vargas in serious . Linger knocked Vargas between the ropes for a knockdown. Linger was relentless until the bout was stopped at 2:06.

Linger, 142.6 lbs of Buckhamon, WV is 13-5-2 with nine knockouts. Vargas, 142.6 lbs Aguadila, PR is 20-3,

Armani Almestica remained undefeated by stopping Eliseo Villalobos in the final round of their six-round lightweight bout.

In round one Almestica dropped Villalobos with a straight left.

In round six, Almestica continued to land clean shots, and the fight was stopped at 1:47.

Almestica, 134.2 lbs of Orlando, FL is 6-0 with six knockouts. Villalobos, 134.4 lbs of Simi Valley, CA is 2-3.

Orlando Gonzalez stopped Pablo Cruz in round five of their six-round featherweight bout.

In round five, Gonzalez landed a flurry in the corner that forced referee Danny Schivone to stop the bout at 1:00.

Gonzalez, 128 lbs of Agudilla, PR is now 18-1 with 11 knockouts. Cruz, 127.8 lbs of Houston, TX is 22-5-1.

Omar Rosario remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Julio Rosa in a junior welterweight bout.

Rosario, 140.6 lbs of Caguas, PR won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 7-0. Rosa, 139.6 lbs of Bayamon, PR is 4-1.

Frevian Gonzalez won a four-round unanimous decision over Refugio Montellano in a lightweight bout.

Gonzalez, 134.6 lbs of Cidra, PR won by scores of 40-36 on all cards, and is now 5-1. Montellano, 134.8 lbs of Dallas, TX is 2-1.

Christina Cruz won remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Maryguenn Vellinga in a flyweight bout.

In round four, Vellinga was cut badly on here forehead from a headbutt.

Cruz, 111.8 lbs of New York won by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37 and is now 3-0. Vellinga, 110.6 lbs of Park City, UT is 3-3-2.

 •  Edgar Berlanga 167.6 vs. Alexis Angulo 169.6
(Berlanga’s NABO Super Middleweight Title — 10 Rounds)
* Angulo is not eligible to win the NABO belt, as he weighed in 1.6 pounds over the 168-pound weight limit. As part of his agreement with Team Berlanga, he can weigh no more than 178 pounds Saturday morning.

•   Henry Lebron 129.8 lbs vs. Luis Lebron 130 lbs 
(Vacant WBO Latino Junior Lightweight Title — 10 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 7:10 p.m. ET/4:10 p.m. PT)

   •    Carlos Caraballo 120.4 lbs vs. Victor Santillan 119.6 lbs
 (Junior Featherweight— 8 Rounds)

   •    Josue Vargas 142.6 lbs vs. Dakota Linger 142.6 lbs
 (Junior Welterweight — 8 Rounds)

   •   Armani Almestica 134.2 lbs vs. Eliseo Villalobos 134.4 lbs
 (Lightweight — 6 Rounds)

   •   Orlando Gonzalez 128 lbs vs. Pablo Cruz 127.8 lbs
 (Featherweight— 8 Rounds)

   •    Omar Rosario 140.6 lbs vs. Julio Rosa 139.6 lbs
 (Junior Welterweight — 6 Rounds)

   •    Frevian Gonzalez 134.6 lbs vs. Refugio Montellano 134.8 lbs
 (Lightweight — 4 Rounds)

•    Christina Cruz 111.8 lbs vs. Maryguenn Vellinga 110.6 lbs
 (Flyweight — 4 Rounds)

NEW YORK (June 9, 2022) — “The Chosen One” is back home. NABO super middleweight champion Edgar Berlanga takes center stage Saturday evening against two-time title challenge Alexis Angulo in the 10-round main eventat Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. Berlanga, born in Brooklyn and whose family hails from Puerto Rico, takes the top spot on the eve of New York’s Puerto Rican Day Parade. A popular ticket-seller with fearsome knockout power, Berlanga (19-0, 16 KOs) hopes a win over the crafty Colombian gets him closer to a world title shot.

The winner of this fight will be the first recipient of Madison Square Garden’s Miguel Cotto Trophy. Puerto Rican icon Cotto, who is being inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame this weekend, headlined five MSG fight nights on the eve of the Puerto Rican Day Parade. Four-division world champion Cotto, from Caguas, will be ringside Saturday night.

In the eight-round co-feature of this all-Puerto Rican card, Henry Lebron (15-0, 10 KOs) and Luis Lebron (18-3-1, 11 KOs) will battle for the vacant WBO Latino junior lightweight belt. This fight was elevated to the co-feature after junior middleweight sensation Xander Zayas dropped out of his bout with a viral infection.

Berlanga-Angulo and Lebron-Lebron will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT.Undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ (7:10 p.m. ET) and includes junior featherweight contender Carlos Caraballo (15-1, 14 KOs), junior welterweight prospect Omar Rosario (6-0, 2 KOs), comebacking featherweight Orlando Gonzalez (17-1, 10 KOs), and junior welterweight Josue “The Prodigy” Vargas (20-2, 9 KOs).

At Thursday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Edgar Berlanga

“I’m excited. It’s Puerto Rican Day {Parade} Weekend. {The first one} since the pandemic, two years. I’ve been dreaming about this since I was a kid. I feel like I spoke it into existence. My hard work paid off and now we’re here.”

“To be honest, my team and Top Rank felt like he was the perfect opponent for Puerto Rican Day Weekend. He’s the type of fighter that comes forward. Hopefully, he does that this Saturday. He’s a tough, rugged fighter. He makes it look ugly, comes forward. He has power just like me. He’s powerful, so it’s going to be an amazing night. And I’m excited to perform on Puerto Rican Day Weekend.”

On three straight fights without a KO

“It’s part of the process. I’m young, 25 years old. What can I say? I have 16 first-round knockouts, so I didn’t really gain the experience I needed. Definitely, these last three fights, I got the experience I needed. That’s the most important thing to make yourself a real professional athlete. But not only that, at that top level, you need those rounds. You need that feeling of what it’s like to get in the eighth, 10th round, and we got that done. This Saturday, Puerto Rican Day Weekend, I’m looking for a huge victory. I’m ready to go all out.”

“A lot of people don’t understand the last two years of not having a Puerto Rican Day Weekend and actually having a fight on that weekend… I’m just looking forward to performing, exploding like I always do and bringing back the old Edgar Berlanga.”

Alexis Angulo

“I’m very thankful for the opportunity, and I’m going to take full advantage of it. We’re going to put on a good presentation for everyone.”

“I see my two losses as big lessons, and we’re going to see what kind of result we get in this fight.”

“Part of the training camp we did in Colombia, part of the training camp we did in Miami. We have been trying different training techniques and things like that, so let’s see what kind of result we get in this fight.”

Henry Lebron

“I’m very happy with this opportunity. This is my first press conference. I’m happy that it’s just before the Puerto Rican Day Parade at Madison Square Garden, and I’m here to represent with a lot of pride.”

“My last fight propelled me to do even better and to keep showing that I’m a complete fighter. It motivates me even more, and I’m going to show the same Henry Lebron for a very long time.”

“I have been under the radar for a long time, but that motivates me even more. I’m thankful for this opportunity. I’m going to take full advantage of it. I’m going to put on a show.”

Luis Lebron

“I’m thankful to Top Rank and ESPN, and I’m here to represent my countrymen and put on a good show for the fans.”

“I am going to take full advantage of this opportunity. I have faced a lot of undefeated fighters, and like I said, this is a blessing for me and I’m going to put on a show for the fans.”

Saturday, June 11

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT)

 
Edgar Berlanga vs. Alexis Angulo, 10 rounds, Berlanga’s NABO Super Middleweight Title
 
Henry Lebron vs. Luis Lebron, 8 rounds, Vacant WBO Latino Junior Lightweight Title

 ESPN+ (7:10 p.m. ET/4:10 p.m. PT)

Carlos Caraballo vs. Victor Santillan, 8 rounds, junior featherweight
 
Josue Vargas vs. Dakota Linger, 8 rounds, junior welterweight

Orlando Gonzalez vs. Pablo Cruz, 8 rounds, featherweight

Omar Rosario vs. Julio Rosa, 6 rounds, junior welterweight

Christina Cruz vs. Maryguenn Vellinga, 4 rounds, flyweight

CAGUAS, PR (May 27, 2022) — Puerto Rican super middleweight contender Edgar “The Chosen One” Berlanga is switching things up. Berlanga (19-0, 16 KOs) has moved training camp from the friendly New York City confines to his family’s homeland as he seeks recapture the knockout power that saw him score 16 straight first-round knockouts to begin his career.

Berlanga is readying to fight two-time world title challenger Alexis Angulo (27-2, 23 KOs) in a 10-round main event Saturday, June 11, at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. Berlanga-Angulo will headline an all-Puerto Rican card — live in prime time on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ — the evening before New York City’s Puerto Rican Day Parade.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $66 are on sale now and are available at Ticketmaster.com and MSG.com.

One of Puerto Rico’s great champions, International Boxing Hall of Fame Class of 2022 inductee Miguel Cotto, hosted Berlanga for a media workout Wednesday at Gimnasio Miguel A. Cotto Carrasquillo.
This is what Berlanga said ahead of his stiffest challenge to date.

Edgar Berlanga

“On June 11, I will give my Island a big win on the eve of the Puerto Rican Day Parade. I am are ready to win big for all my Boricuas. This is a dream come true for me. I’m very excited and can’t wait to get in the ring in Madison Square Garden, just like Tito and Cotto used to do. Those are some pretty big shoes to fill, and it will not be easy, but I’m up for the task and I’m ready to do my own thing and put on a great show for all my people.”

“This fight will be big for my career. I’m ready to show up and show out as the new face of all Puerto Rican boxing. With this fight, I will set the tone and show everyone what I’m capable of. I have to win big and I will. Get ready for some fireworks.”

“I have been working very hard. I have been working on polishing all aspects of my game. You guys will see a real monster on June 11. A monster that has a lot of power, but also a monster that knows how to box and set things up. Don’t get me wrong, he is a tough fighter and he will come to fight, but I will break him down.”

“It feels great to train in Puerto Rico. We decided to do training camp on the Island because we knew that we had a big task ahead and we needed to be fully focused. As I said, I want to win big. This has been one of the best decisions I have made. It’s great to feel the support from the fans. That actually motivates me even more. I’m so ready! I can’t wait!”

NEW YORK (May 9, 2022) — On the eve of the Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City, the island nation’s brightest stars are coming to throw down. Edgar “The Chosen One” Berlanga, the flashy super middleweight knockout artist, will defend his NABO belt in the 10-round main event against two-time world title challenger Alexis Angulo.

In the eight-round junior middleweight co-feature, Xander Zayas, the fistic prodigy from San Juan, steps up in class against Uzbekistan-born veteran Ravshan Hudaynazarov.

Berlanga-Angulo and Zayas-Hudaynazarov will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $66 go on sale Wednesday, May 11 at 12 p.m. ET, and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and MSG.com.

“Boxing events at Madison Square Garden on the eve of the Puerto Rican Day Parade are always special, and we have sensational young talents in Edgar Berlanga and Xander Zayas topping the bill,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “They are each stepping up in class, and I expect them to perform in a big way in front of a raucous, sold-out arena.”

Berlanga (19-0, 16 KOs), at 24 years old, is already one of the biggest ticket-sellers in New York City. In March, a sold-out crowd of 5,158 packed the Hulu Theater for his step-up fight against Steve Rolls, which he won by unanimous decision. Berlanga burst onto the scene with 16 consecutive first-round knockouts to start his career, a ferocious run that captured the imagination of fight fans. The streak ended in April 2021, although Berlanga sent Demond Nicholson to the canvas four times in eight rounds. He survived a gut check that October, overcoming a torn biceps and a trip to the canvas to defeat Marcelo Esteban Coceres. Berlanga is currently the WBO No. 7-ranked super middleweight contender and can edge closer to a world title shot with a victory over Angulo.

Berlanga said, “I’m so pumped to be headlining my second main event at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. Get ready for another sold-out crowd! This one will be special because this will be my first main event during the festivities of the Puerto Rican Day Parade weekend, just like my idols Felix ‘Tito’ Trinidad and Miguel Cotto did. I’m following in the footsteps of greatness, but also continuing the legacy of bringing my people together on a beautiful weekend.

“For this fight, we decided to do the training camp on my Island, and it has been a great decision. It has been a great training camp in Puerto Rico. At the beginning of training camp, I met with ‘Tito’ Trinidad, and he gave me some very encouraging and motivating advice. He is my hero! I’ve been working very hard and I can’t wait to fight on June 11 to show what I’m made off. I will raise the Puerto Rican flag up high and represent for all my Boricuas around the world.” 

Angulo (27-2, 23 KOs), from Patia, Colombia, received his first crack at the brass ring when he challenged Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez for the WBO super middleweight title in June 2018. He lost a unanimous decision to Ramirez, bouncing back with a major upset over then-unbeaten prospect Anthony Sims Jr. in January 2020. Less than seven months after the Sims triumph, he fought David Benavidez for the IBF super middleweight crown, falling via 10^th-round TKO. In his lone outing of 2021, Angulo knocked out Carlos Galvan in five rounds. He hopes to upset the apple cart once against Berlanga.

Angulo said, “I look forward to getting back in action at the legendary Madison Square Garden and putting on a great show for all boxing fans, the Colombian fans, Puerto Rican fans, and the Latino community that will show out and support. I have proven to be a skilled, experienced, gritty, and valiant fighter. I intend to bring the same into the ring on June 11 against Edgar Berlanga.”

Zayas (13-0, 9 KOs) has been on the fast track since signing with Top Rank at 16 years old. From first-round knockouts in his first two pro fights in 2019, to a spotless 6-0 run in 2021, Zayas has lived up to the billing. This will be his third consecutive fight under the Madison Square Garden lights, less than three months removed from a one-sided eight-round decision over Quincy “Chico” LaVallais. Hudaynazarov (19-5, 14 KOs) has only been stopped twice in a 14-year professional career and has won two of his last three bouts.

Zayas said, “For me, fighting at Madison Square Garden is always a great opportunity. It fills me with emotion because the fans always bring very positive and motivating energy. This coming June 11, I know it will not be the exception, as this will be my first fight on the weekend of the Puerto Rican Day Parade. I assure you that this will be the first of many. I want to continue bringing glory to Puerto Rico and Madison Square Garden, and I will continue to work hard to write my name in the history books as Cotto and Trinidad did.”

The undercard — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ — features the following Puerto Rican standouts in separate bouts:

Henry Lebron (15-0, 10 KOs), 8 rounds, junior lightweight — Lebron, from Aguadilla, stood out on the Berlanga-Rolls card with a seventh-round TKO over the usually durable Josec Ruiz. Before turning pro, he won Puerto Rican amateur national titles in 2015 and 2016.

Carlos Caraballo (15-1, 14 KOs), 8 rounds, junior featherweight — Co-promoted by Miguel Cotto, the native of Guayanilla survived a gut check versus Luis Fernando Saavedra on March 26, edging a majority decision. Caraballo won his first 14 pro bouts by stoppage before a close unanimous decision loss to Jonas Sultan last October temporarily blunted his momentum.

Josue Vargas (20-2, 9 KOs),8 rounds junior welterweight — Born in Isabela and raised in the Bronx, Vargas returns to the Hulu Theater, site of his first-round knockout loss to Jose Zepeda last October. Vargas regrouped to edge Argentina’s Nicolas Pablo Demario by unanimous decision in March.

Armani Almestica (5-0, 5 KOs), 6 rounds, lightweight — Born to Puerto Rican parents and raised in Orlando, Florida, Almestica broke through on the Berlanga-Rolls card with a third-round stoppage over Luis Valentin Portalatin. The all-action Almestica had a 117-7 amateur record and was on the Puerto Rican national team. He elected to turn pro after the Tokyo Olympics was postponed.

Orlando Gonzalez (17-1, 10 KOs), 8 rounds, featherweight — It is an evening of redemption for Gonzalez, who is coming off a 10-round decision loss to Robeisy Ramirez on the Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder III undercard. The Aguadilla native spent much of his early career fighting in Puerto Rico and will make his Madison Square Garden debut June 11.

Omar Rosario (6-0, 2 KOs), 6 rounds, junior welterweight —A six-time Puerto Rican amateur national champion from Caguas, the 24-year-old fights for the first time since January’s decision win over Raekwon Butler.

Frevian Gonzalez (4-1, 1 KO), 6 rounds, junior lightweight — A stablemate of Puerto Rican two-weight world champion Jose Pedraza, the Cidra native looks to bounce back from last June’s decision defeat to Bryan Lua.

Christina Cruz (2-0), 4 rounds, flyweight – Cruz, an eight-time U.S. national amateur champion, turned pro last summer. Born to Puerto Rican parents, Cruz was raised in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan.