O’Shaquie Foster recaptured the WBC Super Featherweight title with a 12-round split decision over Robson Conceicao at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

The fight was a rematch of a fight from July that saw Conceicao win the title from Foster in a close and may controversial decision in Newark, New Jersey.

Much like the first battle, this was a closely contested fight, but the difference was the work done by Foster down the stretch that saw him win by scores of 115-113, while Conceicao took a card 115-113.

Foster landed 172 of 534 punches. Conceicao was 153 of 565.

Foster, 129.9 lbs of Orange, TX is 23-3. Conceicao, 129.7 lbs of Brazil is 19-3-1.

Foster said, “Man, he’s a hell of a fighter. His heart is unbelievable. Shoutout to him. He’s got a big heart.”

“I told y’all I was gonna step it up and bring it to him. That was my goal. I still ain’t satisfied with my performance, but I felt like I showed a lot of people my versatility.”

“I want the winner of Emanuel Navarrete vs. Oscar Valdez.”

Conceição said, “I’m happy because I know what I did in the ring. I did a good job, so there’s no reason to be sad. I know the victory wasn’t mine tonight, but I know that I did a good job.”

“If he wants the rematch, I’ll be ready. I gave him a rematch, so I think he should show the same respect to me by giving me the third fight.

Muratalla Stops Perez in 2

Raymond Muratalla remained undefeated by stopping Jesus Perez in round two of a scheduled 10-round lightweight bout

In round two, Muratalla dropped Perez with a right hand. Seconds later, Muratalla landed a perfect right to the jaw that put Perez down again. Muratalla then landed a two more rights and the fight was stopped at 1:24.

Muratalla, 136.6 lbs of Fontana, CA is 22-0 with 17 knockouts. Perez, 136.2 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 25-6.

Muratalla said, “I’m coming for those champions. I’ve still got it. I don’t know what people are talking about. I’m here.”

“I’m asking for these title shots, and they haven’t given them to me. So, tonight I proved that I deserve it. I want any of the champions.”

“I’m ready for any of the guys with the belts. I’m just waiting for that call. You saw what I’m capable of doing. I’m waiting for that call to fight any of the champions.”

Bryce Mills stopped Mike Ohan Jr. after round five if a scheduled eight-round junior lightweight bout.

Mills beat Ohan down and the corner stopped the bout after round five.

Mills, 139 lbs of Syracuse, NY is 17-1 with five knockouts. Ohan, 140.7 lbs of Hollbrook, MA is 19-4.

Abraham Nova and Humberto Galindo battled to a 10-round split draw in a junior lightweight fight.

Scores were 97-93 for Galindo; 96-94 for Nova and 95-94.

Nova, 133.4 lbs of Albany, NY is 23-3-1. Galindo, 1313 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 14-3-3.

Jahi Tucker scored an eighth and final round stoppage of Quilisto Madera in a middleweight fight.

In round eight, Tucker was deducted for holding and hitting. Later in the round, Tucker landed a couple of hard rights that buckled Madera that forced a referee stoppage at 1:52.

Tucker, 161.8 lbs of Deer Park, NY is 13-1-1 with six knockouts. Madera, 161.3 lbs of Stockton, CA is 14-4.

Ali Feliz stopped Rashad Coulter in round two of their six-round heavyweight bout.

Feliz landed a counter right hand to the head the drove Coulter to the ropes. Feliz followed up with 10 unanswered blows and the fight was waved off at 1:34.

Feliz, 224.1 lbs of Danbury, CT is 4-0 with three knockouts. Coulter, 252.1 lbs of Dallas is 5-5.

Yan Santana remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Eduardo Baez in a 10-round featherweight bout.

In round four, Santana dropped Baez with a hard left hook. Sanatana continued to pound on a hurt Baez and the fight was stopped at 1:57.

Santana, 126.3 lbs of La Romana, DR is 13-0 with 12 knockouts. Baez, 125.7 lbs of Mexicali, MX is 23-7-2.

Damian Knyba stopped Richard Lartey in round three of a scheduled eight-round heavyweight bout.

In round three, Knyba landed a right hand that was followed by a left hook that dumped Lartey on the canvas, and the fight was stopped at 2:10.

Knyba, 259.1 lbs of Poland is 14-0 with eight knockouts. Lartey, 288 lbs of Accra, GHA is 16-7.

OMAHA, NEBRASKA (December 8, 2022) – WBO Welterweight Champion Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) went face to face with WBO # 6 contender David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at a press conference on Thursday before they meet for Crawford’s WBO Welterweight Title on Saturday, December 10 headlining a BLK Prime Pay-Per-View from the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska.

Crawford vs. Avanesyan, a 12-round WBO welterweight world title clash, will stream live on the BLK Prime app and across all cable and satellite outlets for the price of $39.99. BLK Prime, a Silicon Valley-based tech company, is a subscription video-on-demand platform that utilizes elite technology to bring the best picture-perfect stream available. The telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. 

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the CHI Health Center.

TERENCE CRAWFORD

“I’ve been carrying Omaha with me everywhere I go my entire life, and when I fought here in the golden glove nationals in the finals that’s when Omaha gravitated towards me. For me to continue bringing the big fights back to Omaha, means the world to me. There’s never been anything like this, I’m really excited.”

“I’m very focused and have been since day one strictly on Avanesyan. We know what he brings to the table, but we’re going to elevate it to a higher level. this Saturday we’ll be victorious, and going to have fun doing it.”

“I really can’t look at too much of who [Avanesyan] fought and how they fought each other. When [Avanesyan] and I match up we’ll be making our adjustments on the fly and we’re going to do what we do best, which is shine.”

DAVID AVANESYAN 

“This is a big fight, a huge fight. I had a great camp, and I’m going to be giving everything to win this fight. Everyone is talking about Terence, I’m not only here to win this fight decisively but to shock the world.”

“Come Sunday morning, the news will be spreading that I raised the belt, and shocked the world. I’ll be getting to go back and see my family who I haven’t seen for so long, and return home a champion.”

CRIS CYBORG

“I can’t wait for Saturday. It’s my second fight in boxing after 18 years in MMA, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity. All of my supporters, team members, and fans are all behind me, I can’t wait to make them proud.”

“I’ve been training and learning to continue my boxing career. Learning the difference between the two at first was tricky but now it’s much easier. I’m hoping this sets me up for bigger and bigger fights in the future for my boxing career, and when that comes, I’ll be ready.”

GABRIELLE HOLLOWAY

“I don’t think there’s added pressure because of my opponent’s legacy in MMA. Right now she’s my opponent so that all goes out the window.”

ARNOLD KEGHAI

“This fight is very important to me. After a great camp and great sparring, this fight is my next step to a belt. I can’t wait to get in the ring and prove that I should be next in line for a belt.”

EDUARDO BAEZ

“I’m always extra intense in studying my opponents. I think that I’m well prepared to go into Saturday, and with the favor of God we’ll get our hand raised at the end of the fight.”

JEREMIAH MILTON

“Not many know me, being that I’m so young in my career, at 7-0 with 6 KO, but it’s not always about the record. It’s about who you walk with, and I’ve had great opportunities in the sport of boxing to spar with some of the best ever, world champs, the who’s who of right now.”

“I’m happy to be in the supporting role of Terence Crawford, I know that I’m on my way up and looking to continue making a bigger name for myself in my career and it’s an honor to share the stage with the pound for pound best boxer in the world Terence Crawford. I’ll get to show him what Oklahoma does.”

DUJUAN CALLOWAY

“It’s not about my power, I’ve got skill too. I’ll be proving that Saturday night. This is a business trip, I’m here to win. I’ll be taking care of that business quickly and easily.”

STEVEN NELSON

“I was training in early 2021 and my achilles just popped. At the moment, I thought my career is over. But now, after a long road back, I’m ready to put on a great show. From the walkout to the first punch to the last punch to the bell ringing, I’m ready to go out there and win.”

“I feel bad for [Ballard], and I’m sorry you had to sign this contract. I really hope he’s ready. I’ve been training really hard for this, so he better be ready.”

JAMES BALLARD

“I’m not coming here to play any games. I’m here to sit my opponent down, knock him out, and leave no questions for the judges. There’s no reason to get in the ring with a Detroit fighter unless you’re willing to risk it all.” 

“I had the same injury [Nelson] had, but I didn’t sit back and think that I could have my career ended. I told myself if I can walk I can fight, so nothing was going to hold me back.”

# # #

Tickets are priced at $50, $75, $125, $200, $350, and $500 for Crawford vs. Avanesyan are on sale now and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by NextGen Boxing, Bash Boxing, and BLK Prime. Doors open at 4:30 pm CT with the first fight starting at 5:30 pm CT.

Terence “Bud” Crawford (38-0, 29 KOs) will make his triumphant return to the ring when he battles WBO #6 ranked David Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. on December 10, 2022. The 12-round bout will air live on BLK Prime PPV, with Crawford’s WBO welterweight title on the line.

About BLK Prime:

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. To learn more about BLK Prime, visit: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view. On social media follow #CrawfordAvanesyan, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME, on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA

Emanuel Navarrete retained the WBO Featherweight Title with a sixth round stoppage over Eduardo Baez at The Pechanga Sports Arena in San Diego.

In round six, Navarrete landed a perfect left hook to the side that sent Baez down on delayed reaction and the fight was over at 1:05.

Navarrete, 125.8 lbs of Mexico is 36-1 with 30 knockouts. Baez, 125.8 lbs of Mexicali, MEX is 21-3-2.

“I expected a fight like this. I never underestimated Eduardo Baez. I knew that he was an excellent fighter and the fact that he hit pretty hard. It was a lot more complicated than I anticipated. But then came that shot, and I was able to finish him,” Navarrete said. “That’s a very Mexican punch. It comes with my blood. And you can see, I don’t throw a perfect left hook like you’re used to seeing. But this one came out perfect for me. And you saw the result because not many guys can take that shot.”

Santillan Decisions Luna

Giovani Santillan remained undefeated won a 10-round unanimous decision over Julio Luna in a welterweight contest.

In round two, Santillan was cut along the right side of his forehead. Santillan fought through a cut over his right eye. It was a tough fight throughout that saw Santillan push the action.

Santillan landed 188 of 554 punches; Luna was 210 of 679.

Santillan, 147.4 lbs of San Diego, CA won by scores of 100-90 twice and 96-94 and is now 30-0. Luna, 147.4 of Gomez Palcios, MEX is 19-1-2.

“It was a lot tougher than I expected. Luna gave me a great fight, and I am just thankful for the opportunity to fight once again in my hometown,” Santillan said.

Nico Ali Walsh Stops Sanchez in 2 Rounds of Rematch

Nico Ali Walsh remained undefeated by stopping Reyes Sanchez in the second round of their four-round middleweight rematch.

In round two, Ali Walsh landed a hard left hook to the body that put Sanchez down for the 10-count at 2:45.

Ali Walsh, 157.8 lbs of Las Vegas, NV is 6-0 with five knockouts. Sanchez, 157.3 lbs of Topeka, KS is 7-3.

The fight was a rematch of a bout that saw Ali Walsh win a majority decision on December 11, 2021.

“I feel amazing. This was a special win because it was a rematch. It’s everything I’ve been working towards. My hard work is now showing in the ring. I want everyone to see that it’s a new me,” Ali Walsh said. “It was so gratifying. Timothy Bradley called it in the fighter meetings yesterday. It was a beautiful shot. It was the shot I was looking for. It was the shot I was dreaming about, and it happened because I worked so hard for it.”

In a battle of undefeated junior welterweights, Lindolfo Delgado won an eight-round unanimous decision over Omar Aguilar.

In round one, Aguilar began to bleed from his nose.

Delgado, 142 lbs of Linares, MEX won by scores of 79-73 twice and 77-75 and is now 16-0. Aguilar, 142 lbs of Ensanada, MEX is 24-1.

Austin Brooks remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Oliver Gallcia in a junior lightweight bout.

In round one, Brooks dropped Galicia with a left.

Brooks, 129.4 lbs of San Diego, CA won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 8-0. Gallcia, 128.6 lbs of Los Angeles, CA is now 5-1-1.

Xavier Martinez stopped gritty Alejandro Guerrero in round five of a scheduled eight-round junior lightweight bout.

Martinez landed a lot of power shots through four-plus rounds, and in round five, Martinez landed several flush blows which included some booming right hands that forced a referee stoppage at 2:57.

Martinez, 131.6 lbs of Sacramento, CA is now 18-1 with 12 knockouts. Guerrero, 131.8 lbs of Houston, TX is 12-3.

Miguel Contreras won a eight-round unanimous decision over Josec Ruiz in a lightweight contest.

Contreras, 135.4 lbs of Bakersfield, CA won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 12-1-1. Ruiz, 135.4 lbs of Honduras is 21-7-3.

Luis Alberto Lopez stopped Yeison Vargas in round two of a scheduled eight-round featherweight bout.

In round two, Lopez Lopez dropped Vargas with a left hook to the body for the 10-count at 1:24

Antonio Mireles shook off a first round knockdown to come back and stop Kaleel Carter in round two of their four-round heavyweight bout.

In round Charles dropped Mireles with a hard combination. In round two, Mireles landed a vicious combination that spun Carter around and the bout was stopped at 1:52.

Mireles, 266 lbs of Des Moines, IA is now 5-0 with five knockouts. Carter, 237 lbs of Bellflower, CA is 2-2.

•  Emanuel Navarrete 125.8 vs. Eduardo Baez 125.8
(Navarrete’s WBO Featherweight World Title — 12 Rounds)
Judges: Lou Moret, Pat Russell and Zachary Young
Referee: Jack Reiss

•   Giovani Santilan 147.4 lbs vs. Julio Luna 147.4 lbs 
(Welterweight — 10 Rounds)

•   Nico Ali Walsh 157.8 lbs vs. Reyes Sanchez 157.2 lbs 
(Middleweight — 4 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT)

   •   Austin Brooks 129.4 lbs vs. Oliver Galicia 128.6 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight — 6/4 Rounds)

   •   Lindolfo Delgado 142 lbs vs. Omar Aguilar 142 lbs
 (Junior Welterweight — 8 Rounds)

   •   Xavier Martinez 131.6 lbs vs. Alejandro Guerrero 131.8 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight — 8 Rounds)

   •   Miguel Contreras 135.4 lbs vs. Josec Ruiz 135.4 lbs
 (Lightweight — 8 Rounds)

•  Luis Alberto Lopez 127 lbs vs. Yeison Vargas 125.6 lbs
 (Featherweight — 8 Rounds)

•  Antonio Mireles 266 lbs vs. Kaleel Carter 237 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 4 Rounds)

SAN DIEGO (Aug. 18, 2022) — Mexican star Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete is ready to defend his WBO featherweight world title against a fellow countryman who is no stranger to toe-to-toe action. Navarrete (35-1, 29 KOs) will take on upset-minded Eduardo Baez (21-2-2, 7 KOs) in the 12-round main event this Saturday evening at Pechanga Arena San Diego.
 
In the co-feature, San Diego native Giovani “Gallo de Oro” Santillan (29-0, 16 KOs) looks to shine in front of a hometown crown in a 10-round welterweight battle against unbeaten contender Julio Luna (19-0-2, 10 KOs). Undefeated middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh (5-0, 4 KOs), grandson of Muhammad Ali, returns in a four-round rematch versus Reyes Sanchez (7-2, 3 KOs). Ali Walsh is fighting in the same venue where his grandfather got his jaw broken by Ken Norton in a 1973 split decision loss. 
 
Navarrete-Baez, Santillan-Luna and Ali Walsh-Sanchez 2 will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
Undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m PT) and includes an eight-round junior welterweight showdown between undefeated Mexican prospects Lindolfo Delgado (15-0, 13 KOs) and Omar “Pollo” Aguilar (24-0, 23 KOs).Tickets starting at $35 can be purchased at AXS.com.

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

Emanuel Navarrete

“I feel really good. We had a great preparation. We’re going to be making a really good return. It is a bit hard to make the weight because of the time that we were away from the ring. But aside from that, there’s nothing that worries me about being able to make this defense of my championship in excellent fashion.”

“I think Baez is coming with a strong desire to win. He is very well conditioned, and that can make for a great fight. I’ve also prepared very well. We both want this world championship. I have it, but he wants to snatch it away from me. That can make for a great fight from the start. So, I think this fight will lend itself to being a great matchup. We hope that Baez comes out very strong, that we both last the 12 rounds, and that we fight at a very high level.”

“I’m very happy to be returning after the layoff. We hope that my career is going on a good path so that I can keep growing in this new era with Top Rank.”

Eduardo Baez

“I’m very happy because we are fighting for a world title, which is the dream come true for any boxer. We felt really good during our preparation, and we’re coming in great condition. We are very excited to be in this position.” 

“It’s an important fight for a world title. We’re coming double prepared. We are so happy to be fighting against a great champion like ‘El Vaquero.’ We thank him for the opportunity. We’ve come very prepared to snatch the title from him. I’ve seen it already. It’s very nice. He better not get careless because I’m going to snatch it away.”

Giovani Santillan

“It’s exciting for me to be fighting in San Diego again. It’ll be my second time fighting at Pechanga Arena. It’s really a dream come true. Ever since I was an amateur, I’ve been dreaming about fighting in these big venues. To be on ESPN with Top Rank means everything to me, so I’ve been working hard for this.”

“He’s an undefeated fighter like me. So, when you have something like that, it lights up a fire inside me to train extra hard. So, I’m ready. I’m ready for whatever he brings to the table.”

Julio Luna

“This is the opportunity of my career. I come from a family of champions. My sister is a world champion. My objective is to be world champion, and this is the opportunity that will open the path towards that in my career.”

“You will all see the best Julio Luna of my career. This is my opportunity. I plan to leave everything in the ring so I can obtain the victory. I prepared very well. I am ready to win both mentally and physically.”

Nico Ali Walsh

“Honestly, I feel like there’s a lot to prove. That was the start of my career. That was my third fight, and I have been improving beyond what everyone thought I could. It’s exciting that we get to do this, and I think I’ll have a good time. I truly think my last few fights have spoken for themselves, and it shows how hard I’ve been working.”

Reyes Sanchez

“It’s not very often in life that you get a second chance. I’m glad it’s going through. Thank you to everyone who made it happen. I’ve rewatched the fight plenty of times. I think gave him a tougher fight than they were expecting. I expect the same thing Saturday night.”

Lindolfo Delgado

“This is a great opportunity here with Top Rank. I’m very happy. It’s going to be a really good fight. I know that a lot of people are looking forward to this fight because of the kind of fighters we are and because of the record that each of us has. I think it’s going to be really good, so don’t miss it. This is an opportunity that we have both been looking for, and it’s the kind of fight we need to move forward in our careers.”

Omar Aguilar

“It’s the right time because we both have good records. This is the moment in which fighters begin to rise in the ranks so that bigger opportunities can come. Like I’ve always said, I always prepare for the rounds I’m scheduled to fight for. I know he is a strong opponent who boxes really well. And if it goes the distance, I’ll be ready.”

Saturday, August 20

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)

 
Emanuel Navarrete vs. Eduardo Baez, 12 rounds, Navarrete’s WBO Featherweight World Title
 
Giovani Santillan vs. Julio Luna, 10 rounds, welterweight

Nico Ali Walsh vs. Reyes Sanchez (rematch), 4 rounds, middleweight

 ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT)

Austin Brooks vs. Oliver Galicia, 6/4 rounds, junior lightweight
 
Lindolfo Delgado vs. Omar Aguilar, 8 rounds, junior welterweight

Antonio Mireles vs. Kaleel Carter, 4 rounds, heavyweight

SAN DIEGO (July 7, 2022) — Tickets go on sale TODAY at 10 a.m. PT for the Aug. 20 world championship event at Pechanga Arena San Diego headlined by WBO featherweight champion Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete against Eduardo “El Gemelo” Baez.

In the co-feature, San Diego native Giovani “Gallo de Oro” Santillan looks to improve his record to 30-0 in a 10-round welterweight battle against unbeaten contender Julio Luna. Undefeated middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali, will see action in a four-round rematch versus Reyes Sanchez.

Navarrete-Baez, Santillan-Luna and Ali Walsh-Sanchez 2 will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions, tickets starting at $35 can be purchased at AXS.com.

SAN DIEGO (June 29, 2022) — A fighting cowboy, a hometown hero, and the grandson of “The Greatest” are set for a summer night to remember in San Diego.

Mexican star Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete will defend his WBO featherweight world title in the main event against countryman Eduardo “El Gemelo” Baez on Saturday, Aug. 20 at Pechanga Arena San Diego. Navarrete also signed a new multi-year promotional agreement with Top Rank that will see him fight on the ESPN family of networks in events promoted in association with Zanfer Promotions.

The 10-round welterweight co-feature will see San Diego native Giovani “Gallo de Oro” Santillan risk his unbeaten record against a soon-to-be-announced opponent.

In a four-round special feature, undefeated middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali, will fight Reyes Sanchez in a rematch of their December 2021 bout that Ali Walsh edged by majority decision. Ali Walsh will fight in the historic venue that hosted one of his grandfather’s most memorable bouts. In March 1973, Ali and Ken Norton battled for 12 rounds at what was then known as San Diego Sports Arena. Ali suffered a broken jaw and lost a split decision in a major upset.

Navarrete-Baez, Santillan’s welterweight battle, and Ali Walsh-Sanchez 2 will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT.

Ticket information for this event that will be promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions, will be announced soon.

“San Diego is a great fight town, and this is an incredible card from top to bottom,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Emanuel Navarrete is always in tremendous action fights, and Eduardo Baez is the type of opponent who will stand in the center of the ring. Santillan is a fantastic young man who drew plenty of support from the local fans last time he fought here. Nico Ali Walsh has improved leaps and bounds since turning pro last year, and I expect him to leave no doubt against Sanchez this time.”

Navarrete (35-1, 29 KOs), winner of 30 consecutive bouts, is a two-weight world champion entering his 10th world title bout. A native of San Juan Zitlaltepec, Mexico, he emerged on the world scene with a pair of title fight victories over Isaac Dogboe, which started his run as one of boxing’s most fan-friendly world champions. Following five junior featherweight title defenses in nine months, Navarrete moved up to featherweight and won the WBO title in October 2020 with a decision over Ruben Villa. He defended his title twice in 2021, including last October’s 12-round barnburner over Joet Gonzalez at Pechanga Arena.

“I am very excited to finally be back in the ring on August 20. The inactivity of these last eight months has served to give my body the rest it needed and to reflect on many things,” Navarrete said. “Now I’m coming back stronger physically and mentally. I’m going to show that I’m ready to fight any champion at 126 or 130 pounds. There will be a lot of ‘Vaquero’ for a long time.”

Baez (21-2-2, 7 KOs), from Mexicali, Mexico, is the WBO No. 7 featherweight contender. He recently moved up to featherweight after a successful run at junior featherweight that included a Mexican title and wins over three undefeated prospects. In 2017, he lost a tight decision to Mauricio Lara, who entered the title picture with his 2021 knockout over Josh Warrington. Following a disputed majority decision to Ra’eese Aleem last November, Baez moved up to featherweight. In March, he edged Jose Enrique Vivas by majority decision to earn a world ranking and a shot at the 126-pound king.

Santillan (29-0, 16 KOs) is a 10-year pro who has seen his career momentum take off since linking up with noted trainer Robert Garcia in 2020. Last October, he made his Pechanga Arena debut, bringing a raucous cheering section that watched him outfight Angel Ruiz over 10 action-packed rounds. He returned in April in Costa Mesa, California, and knocked out Jeovanis Barraza in seven rounds. 

“I didn’t know when I’d be back fighting in San Diego, so when I heard the news, I was ecstatic. This shows we can continue having big cards in San Diego, and I can’t wait for all my fans to pack Pechanga Arena,” Santillan said. “I want a world title opportunity soon. That’s the dream. I’d love to fight for a world title, and defend my belt, in my hometown.”

Ali Walsh (5-0, 4 KOs) had no ring struggles until meeting Sanchez under the Madison Square Garden lights. After a dominant first two rounds, Sanchez rallied in the third and fourth to nearly pull even. In January, Ali Walsh got back on the knockout track with a second-round stoppage over Jeremiah Yeager. Three months later, on the Oscar Valdez-Shakur Stevenson undercard in Las Vegas, he sparked out Alejandro Ibarra in the opening round with a left-right combination. He enters the Sanchez fight with a new head trainer, Kay Koroma, who works with (among others) Stevenson, rising middleweight prospect Troy Isley, and female pound-for-pound star Mikaela Mayer. Sanchez (7-2, 3 KOs), from Topeka, Kansas, entered the first Ali Walsh fight with an unbeaten record built primarily in his home state. He is coming off a decision loss to unbeaten prospect Sharif Rahman, son of former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman.

“Despite winning our last fight, I feel like I must set the record straight with Reyes Sanchez. He’s the only opponent I haven’t knocked out, and I don’t see the rematch going the distance,” Ali Walsh said. “Kay Koroma has already added so much to my arsenal, and I can’t wait to perform in front of the great San Diego fans and everyone watching on ESPN.”

Undercard action, streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+, includes an eight-round junior welterweight showdown between unbeaten Mexican standouts Lindolfo Delgado (15-0, 13 KOs) and Omar Aguilar (24-0, 23 KOs). Delgado represented Mexico at the 2016 Rio Olympics, while Aguilar has 15 first-round knockouts on his ledger and second-round stoppages in his last three bouts.

IBF No 1. featherweight contender Luis Alberto Lopez (25-2, 14 KOs) returns in an eight-rounder, while junior lightweight contender Xavier Martinez (17-1, 11 KOs) looks to bounce back from his first career loss against Alejandro Guerrero (12-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

Jeremiah Nakathila scored the biggest win of his career by stopping former world champion Miguel Berchelt in a scheduled 10-round lightweight bout at The Resorts World Casino in Las Vegas.

In round three, Nakathila dropped Berchelt with a jab. Nakathila continued to apply hard pressure with Berchelt offering little to offset the charging Nakathila. In round six, Nakathila landed a blistering right that sent mouthpiece of Berchelt flying. That was enough to force the fight to be stopped.

Nakathila, 133.6 lbs of Winbook, NAM is 23-2 with 19 knockouts. Berchelt, 135 lbs of Cancun, MEX is 38-3.

Nakathila said, “From the first round, my corner told me to take my time. I know what I have. I knew it would be difficult for him to reach the 10^th round. It wasn’t so easy, but I made it look easy.

“He didn’t really bother me, the way he swung. I just got back to my game plan, and I capitalized.

“Luckily, {he couldn’t continue}. I was going to knock him out or put him to sleep in a bad way. Luckily, he saw it coming and decided he couldn’t come back.”

Added Berchelt, “I’m going to get up. I’m going to rise from this. The great champions are not the ones who fall. The great champions are those who rise, and I will go home, spend time with my family, visit with them, get some rest, and I am going to come back stronger than ever.”

Eduardo Baez Decisions Jose Enrique Vivas

Eduardo Baez won a 10-round majority decision over Jose Enrique Vivas in a featherweight bout.

Baez landed 304 of 783 punches; Vivas was 215 of 818.

Baez, 126.6 lbs of Mexicali, MEX won by scores of 98-92, 96-94 and 95-95 and is now 21-2-2. Vivas, 125.8 lbs of Mexico is 21-2.

Carlos Caraballo won a eight-round majority decision over Luis Fernando Saavedra in a junior featherweight bout.

Caraballo, 120 lbs of Puerto Rico won by scores of 79-73, 77-75 and 76-76 and is now 15-1. Saavedra, 120 lbs of Mexico is 9-7.

2021 U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson stopped Sebastian Gabriel Chaves in around four of their six-round welterweight bout.

In round four, Johnson dropped Chaves with a right hand. Later in the round, Johnson dropped Chaves with a massive left hand and the fight was stopped at 1:42.

Johnson, 142 lbs of Cleveland, OH is 3-0 with two knockouts. Chaves, 143.2 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 5-4.

Josue Vargas survived two knockdowns and a bite to win an eight-round unanimous decision over Nicolas Pablo Demario in a junior welterweight bout

In round three, DeNario landed a right against an off-balance Vargas that put Vargas on the canvas.

In round five, DeMario dropped Vargas with a hard left. Later in the round DeMario was deducted a point for biting Vargas on the shoulder.

Vargasm 142 lbs of Bronx, NY won by scores of 76-4 twice and 76-73 and is now 20-2. Demario, 141.6 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 15-6-3.

Haven Brady Jr. stopped Juan Angel in round four of a scheduled six-round featherweight bout.

In round four, Brady landed a hard flurry of punches and was able to put Angel down with a double right. Brady finished off Angel by dropping him with an uppercut and the fight was stopped at 2:05.

Brady, 127 lbs of Albany, GA is 6-0 with four knockouts. Angel, 126.6 lbs of Chile is 8-3.

Dante Benjamin Jr. won a four-round unanimous decision over Kevin Johnson in a battle of undefeated light heavyweights.

Benjamin, 173.6 lbs of Cleveland, OH won by scores of 40-36 on all cards is now 2-0. Johnson, 174.4 lbs of Wichita, KS is 2-1.

Juan Hernandez Martinez and Arturo Cardenas battled to a four-round draw in a junior featherweight bout.

Each fighter won a card 39-37 and a third card read 38-38.

Gomez, 123.6 lbs of Gomez Palacios, MEX is 2-0-1. Cardenas, 122.4 lbs of Mexico is 2-0-1

Estevan Partida and Adrian Serrano battled to a four-round draw in a lightweight bout.

In round two, Serrano had blood from his nose.

Each fighter won a card 39-37 and a third card was 38-38.

Partida, 133.6 lbs of Merced, CA is 0-1-1. Serrano, 134.4 lbs of Salinas, CA was making his pro debut.

LAS VEGAS (March 2, 2022) — Former junior lightweight world champion Miguel “El Alacrán” Berchelt, the fighting pride of Cancun, Mexico, has his sights squarely on the lightweight division’s top names. Berchelt will battle Namibian contender Jeremiah Nakathila in the 10-round main event Saturday, March 26 at the Resorts World Events Center located at Resorts World Las Vegas.

Berchelt-Nakathila marks the debut sporting event at Resorts World Las Vegas, which opened June 2021 as the first integrated resort to be built on The Strip in over a decade.

In the 10-round co-feature, top featherweight contenders Jose Enrique “El Ejecutor” Vivas and Enrique “El Gemelo” Baez will meet in a guaranteed all-action clash with potential world title implications. Berchelt-Nakathila and Vivas-Baez will be televised live on ESPN & ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 10 p.m. EST/7 p.m. PST.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions, tickets starting at $25 go on sale Thursday, March 3 at noon PST, and can be purchased at www.rwlasvegas.com/experiences/top-rank.

“Miguel Berchelt is motivated to become a two-weight world champion, and he has a formidable test in his lightweight debut against Jeremiah Nakathila,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “It is a great honor to promote the first boxing event at Resorts World Las Vegas, a fantastic new property we hope will host many fight nights in the coming years.”

“As we developed Resorts World Las Vegas, entertainment was always an integral piece of our business strategy, and as part of that, we envisioned having major sporting events take place on our property,” said Scott Sibella, President of Resorts World Las Vegas. “We’re thrilled to be partnering with an industry leader like Top Rank to host this event and look forward to welcoming fans to the first-ever Resorts World Las Vegas fight night experience.”   

Berchelt (38-2, 34 KOs) won the WBC world title in January 2017 and defended that belt six times, becoming one of boxing’s longest-reigning world champions. Five of his title defenses came by knockout, including a ninth-round triumph over Miguel Roman and a fourth-round blitzing of former world champion Jason Sosa. Berchelt’s momentum was halted in February 2021, when he lost his world title in a dramatic showdown against Oscar Valdez. Berchelt was knocked out in the 10^th round by Valdez and soon looked to regain his championship form in another division.

“I am ready to turn the page and show the fans I have what it takes to become a two-division world champion,” Berchelt said. “The Valdez fight is in the past, and my focus is on Nakathila and a lightweight world title in 2022. ‘El Alacran’ is back, and I can’t wait to come to Resorts World Las Vegas to put on a show.”

Nakathila (22-2, 18 KOs) is a former WBO Africa and WBO Global junior lightweight titlist who is one of Namibia’s most decorated fighters. He went undefeated for more than four years, and last June, he made his Las Vegas debut against Shakur Stevenson for the WBO interim junior lightweight world title. Nakathila lost a clear points verdict to the unbeaten phenom, but he returned in fine form last October with a second-round stoppage over Ndodana Ncube. The 32-year-old Nakathila hopes to score the upset and a spot among the lightweight elites.

Nakathila said, “It’s an amazing opportunity to fight Berchelt. Given our styles, it will make for a highly entertaining fight. This is my lightweight debut, and I’m looking forward to my first win against a highly rated former champion.”

Vivas (21-1, 11 KOs), from Texcoco, Mexico, has won four straight fights and emerged as a contender to watch during the “Bubble” in 2020 with standout performances against Carlos Jackson and John Vincent Moralde. Last May, in one of the year’s best toe-to-toe affairs, he recovered from a pair of third-round knockdowns to edge Louie Coria by unanimous decision. Baez (20-2-2, 7 KOs), from Mexicali, Mexico, is a former Mexican junior featherweight champion who is now testing the featherweight waters. Last March, he notched a one-sided decision over the previously undefeated Abimael Ortiz, which came a little more than three months after a near-shutout verdict over Narek Abgaryan. Baez saw his 12-bout unbeaten streak snapped with a razor-thin majority decision loss to Ra’eese Aleem. 

Stephen Fulton retained the WBO and captured the WBC Super Bantamweight titles with a 12-round majority decision over Brandon Figueroa in a Fight of the Year Candidate in a battle of undefeated champions at The Park Theater in Las Vegas.

The stood toe-to-toe for much of the fight with Figueroa pushing the action and Fulton countering effectively. Not much separated the two combatants as the waged a savage war that thrilled the crowd in attendance as well as viewing audience on SHOWTIME. Fulton seemed to rally in the later rounds and picked up the win by scores of 116-112 twice and 114-114.

Fulton, 121.75 lbs of Philadelphia is 20-0. Figueroa, 121.75 lbs of Weslaco, TX is 22-1-1.

Aleem Decisions Baez

Raeese Aleem kept his perfect record intact with a 10-round majority decision over Eduardo Baez in a super bantamweight bout.

In round six, Baez was cut on the forehead by an accidental headbutt.

Aleem, 121.75 lbs of Muskegon, MI won by scores of 98-92, 96-94 and 95-95 and is now 19-0. Baez, 121.5 lbs of Mexicali, MEX is 19-2-2.

Russell Decisions Santiago

Gary Antonio Russell remains undefeated with a 12-round majority decision over Alejandro Santiago in a bantamweight contest.

Russell, 117.5 lbs of Capitol Heights, Maryland won by scores of 96-94 twice and 96-94 and is now 19-0. Santiago, 118 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 24-3-5.

LAS VEGAS (November 19, 2021) – Undefeated super bantamweight Ra’eese Aleem will look to further cement his status as a top contender when he faces Mexico’s Eduardo Báez in a 10-round duel live on SHOWTIME Saturday, November 27 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and is headlined by unbeaten super bantamweight world champions going toe-to-toe as WBC Champion Brandon Figueroa faces WBO Champion Stephen Fulton Jr. in a title unification clash.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

Aleem returns to the ring after a statement victory in January on SHOWTIME, as he dropped the previously unbeaten Vic Pasillas four times on his way to a dominating 11th round TKO victory. Here is what Aleem had to say about his November 27 matchup and more from training camp in Las Vegas:

On his recent training camp in Las Vegas with Coach Bobby McCoy:

“I have been out of the ring since January, but I have stayed focused. My trainer Bobby McCoy has been right by my side since then, and together we have been working hard to get to this point. The sparring we’ve got here in Vegas is second to none, so I know I’ll be ready for anything Baez brings. I’m in great shape and I’m the hungriest I’ve ever been in my career. “

On the WBA title eliminator situation (Aleem chose to keep his fight date with Baez after the WBA ordered an eliminator match versus Azat Hovhannisyan):

“As many may be aware, I chose not to fight Azat Hovhannisyan in the WBA super bantamweight eliminator. My reasoning is simple, I have been out of the ring since January. I am a fighter and I need to fight. I just had my best performance, and my fight has been pushed back already once. I want to be able to get this fight in, work on things I need to improve, and then take on the next challenge in front of me.

“For me, sitting on the shelf even longer was unrealistic at this stage in my career. I am a fighter the fans want to see face the world champions at 122-pounds. I beat the most dangerous guy in the division for the interim title, so I should be fighting the champion.”

On his opponent, Eduardo Báez:

“Báez is tough pressure fighter, and I will have to be ready for a grueling fight. He is unbeaten in his last twelve fights, with eleven wins and one draw. His only loss was to Mauricio Lara, a world class fighter. I am taking this fight very seriously since this is the type of fight that could ruin everything I have worked for.

“I am going to make a statement in this bout and end the fight before the final bell rings. I know none of the top fighters want to fight me, unless the sanctioning bodies force them into fighting me, so because of that, I must keep winning.

“I am annoyed because I know I am the best super bantamweight in the world. I have been watching a lot of Marvin Hagler and finding inspiration in his story. I know that if I keep winning in spectacular fashion, the fans will demand to see me in a big fight. Until then, I just have to keep winning.”

On fighting in his adopted hometown of Las Vegas:

“I get a lot of support in Las Vegas. A lot of people will be coming out to see me fight. I’ve sparred some great fighters that stay out here, and they all want to see me in action. I carry myself as a humble fighter, but I know I am one of the very best, and my confidence is felt by those around me. I know others believe in me, and want to see me perform, so this will be a coming out party for my Vegas peeps. I feel I have been embraced by Las Vegas, and now I intend to get a knockout victory in my new hometown and steal the show.”

On Fighting on SHOWTIME:

“I love fighting on SHOWTIME. I feel like I have grown-up as a fighter on this platform starting on the ShoBox: The New Generation platform, and then having a dominant knockout win over Vic Pasillas. I want to stay fighting on SHOWTIME since the executives and staff have always treated me great, and I feel at home here.

“I want the winner of Figueroa vs. Fulton. If the winner won’t fight me, then the world will know they are ducking me, that they are not true warriors, and they can’t be considered true champions to the fans. I want to fight for a world title, and I want everyone watching on SHOWTIME to know my hunger is real.”

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ABOUT FIGUEROA VS. FULTON
Figueroa vs. Fulton will see undefeated 122-pound world champions in a unification clash as WBC champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa and WBO champion Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. battle in the SHOWTIME main event Saturday, November 27 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dolby Live at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast will begin at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and also features undefeated super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem battling Mexico’s Eduardo Báez in the 10-round co-main event. Opening the telecast, unbeaten rising bantamweight contender Gary Antonio Russell takes on Mexico’s Alejandro Barrios in a 10-round showdown.

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

LAS VEGAS (September 2, 2021) – Undefeated 122-pound world champions will go toe-to-toe as WBC champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa and WBO champion Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. meet in the SHOWTIME main event Saturday, September 18 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will include undefeated super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem battling Mexico’s Eduardo Baez in the 10-round co-main event. Opening the telecast, unbeaten rising bantamweight contender Gary Antonio Russell takes on Mexico’s Alejandro Barrios in a 10-round showdown.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

“This night of high-stakes action is headlined by two undefeated young stars in one of the most anticipated fights of the year.” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The winner of this fight will not only hold the mantle as the division’s best but will have a case as one of the top pound-for-pound rising stars in the sport. With Ra’eese Aleem and Gary Antonio Russell also on the card, the future of the sport takes centerstage on September 18.”

The three-fight boxing event will open SHOWTIME’s combat sports doubleheader on September 18. Immediately following the main event from Las Vegas, BELLATOR MMA will air live from San Jose, Calif., with a three-fight event headlined by light heavyweight contenders Phil Davis and Yoel Romero.

Figueroa vs. Fulton has loomed as a potential showdown for several years prior to the two unbeaten fighters joining the world championship ranks with career-best performances in 2021. Fulton struck first, dominating then-unbeaten Angelo Leo to capture the WBO title in January, while Figueroa made his own statement in stopping two-division champion Luis Nery to capture the WBC strap in May.

The 24-year-old Figueroa (22-0-1, 17 KOs) used his youth and relentless pressure to become the first person to defeat Nery in their championship clash on SHOWTIME. Figueroa’s body attack was the difference, as he was able to stand up against Nery’s offense and eventually overwhelm him to earn the knockout. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa added to his family’s legacy in capturing the world title, joining his brother Omar Figueroa who previously held the lightweight world championship. Figueroa took down a slew of veteran contenders on his way to championship status, knocking out Moises Flores, Oscar Escandon and Damien Vazquez on his ascent.

“We train hard for every fight and make sure we go 110% come fight night,” said Figueroa. “I expect Fulton to be flashy and slick with his movements, and perhaps he’ll want to mix it up a little as well, so we’re ready for anything. People know I always come to fight and with this being my second back-to-back fight against another undefeated world champion it makes this an exciting fight on paper and it should be even more exciting to see it live on September 18.”

Born and raised in West Philadelphia, Pa., Fulton (19-0, 8 KOs) faced impressive competition while rising up the 122-pound rankings to earn the opportunity that eventually saw him become world champion on SHOWTIME by besting Leo. In his last 13 professional fights, the 27-year-old has beaten eight previously undefeated fighters, including Leo, Josh Greer, Arnold Khegai, Adam Lopez and Luis Saul Rosario. Trained in his hometown by coach Wahid Rahim, Fulton has displayed sublime boxing skills that have allowed him to dominate opponents of varying styles and control fights from start to finish.

“We will have a new king of the division on a historic day,” said Fulton. “Training camp has been great, rough and dirty. I know where I need to be for this fight and I’m right there not running away from it. History will be made September 18 on Mexican Independence Day weekend in Las Vegas. Let’s celebrate with a bang!”

Owning a top-10 ranking at 122-pounds from multiple sanctioning bodies, Aleem (18-0, 12 KOs) put on the most impressive performance of his career in January to capture the interim WBA title on SHOWTIME. Aleem dominated in a battle of unbeatens, dropping Victor Pasillas four times before eventually stopping him in round 11. Raised in Michigan and training out of Las Vegas, Nev., Aleem, 31, has stopped his past seven opponents inside the distance.

“It’s great to be back fighting on SHOWTIME,” said Aleem. “I’ve been waiting patiently, working hard in the gym, and now it’s go time. Eduardo Baez is a good fighter who is trying to make a name for himself, but he’s standing in my way of becoming world champion, and I’m going to take him out. I’m on a mission to prove I’m the king of the super bantamweight division, and the journey continues on September 18.”

The 26-year-old Baez (19-1-2, 6 KOs) will look to earn a career-best victory and build on back-to-back triumphs over previously unbeaten fighters when he takes on Aleem on September 18. Originally from Baja California, Mexico, Baez now fights out of Calexico, California as he nears his second stateside outing. Baez most recently won a decision over Abimael Ortiz in March, after his U.S. debut saw him defeat Narek Abgaryan in his U.S. debut in December 2020.

“I can’t wait for this opportunity against Ra’eese Aleem,” said Baez. “Success is the most precious treasure, the more you are willing to pay, the more valuable the prize will be. I will win this fight and we will all scream ‘viva Mexico!’”

The middle brother between WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne, Antonio Russell (18-0, 12 KOs) announced his arrival amongst the bantamweight division contenders with a technical decision over former world champion Juan Carlos Payano in December 2020 on SHOWTIME. The 28-year-old from Capitol Heights, Md. turned pro in 2015 after an impressive amateur career. After four wins in 2019, Russell kicked off 2020 defeating Jesus Martinez in February. Russell returns to action after his August 14 fight against former champion Emmanuel Rodriguez ended in a no-decision in round one due to a clash of heads.

“I’m excited to be back after I trained so hard for my last fight before it ended early,” said Russell. “Now, I’m just taking that same fight energy that I had for Emmanuel Rodriguez and bringing it on September 18 for my new opponent.”

The 25-year-old Barrios (24-2-5, 13 KOs) has not been beaten since 2014, a streak spanning 20 fights. Representing his native Tijuana, Mexico, Barrios has won his last eight contests since a 2018 draw against Jerwin Ancajas in a 115-pound title bout. After defeating Erick Hernandez and Willibaldo Garcia in 2020, Barrios knocked out Juan Gabriel Medina to begin his 2021. In addition to the draw against Ancajas, Barrios has fought then unbeaten Jose Martinez-Mercado to a draw twice while also earning the same result against then undefeated Antonio Nieves.

“I want to thank my whole team and everyone else who made this fight possible,” said Barrios. “It has been a long road for me. I’ve been looking for another title fight or a rematch with Ancajas, ever since our draw. We decided to move up to 118-pounds and I’ve just remained focused and worked hard for the next opportunity. Now I get to share the ring with a great and talented fighter in Gary Antonio Russell. On September 18, I will leave everything in that ring, put on a great fight for all boxing fans and leave victorious.”

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

Seven-Division world champion Amanda Serrano stopped three-division world champion retained the WBC/WBO Featherweight titles with a ninth round stoppage over Daniela Bermudez in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

It was an entertaining fight that saw Serrano land heavy punches throughout the contest.

In round nine, Serrano landed a perfect left to the body that sent Bermudez down on a delayed reaction for the 10-count at 1:33.

Serrano, 124.8 lbs of Carolina, PR is 40-1-1 with 30 knockouts. Bermudez, 125 lbs of Argentina is 29-4-3.

“I mean, this is boxing. I am not invisible, I get hit,” said Serrano who lives and trains out of Brooklyn, N.Y. “I knew I was a lot bigger than her. I was listening to my corner to box and I wanted to put on a show in front of my island and that’s what I did. The knockout came in the ninth which shows that I have power until the very end.”

“I want to become undisputed,” stated Serrano. “I want to be the first undisputed champion to come out of my beautiful island of Puerto Rico. That’s definitely my goal – IBF, WBA. Nothing against any champion but I want those belts. If they want to become undisputed champion, then they need to come through me too, so we need each other.”

Caraballo Stops Leonardo Baez in 4!

Carlos Caraballo stopped Leonardo Baez in round four of their scheduled eight-round super bantamweight bout.

In round two, Caraballo put Baez on the floor after a vicious flurry of hard punches that was capped by three flush uppercuts. In round four, Caraballo pounded away with huge shots, and the towel was thrown in at 2:36.

Caraballo, 120.2 lbs of Puerto Rico is 14-0 with 14 knockouts. Baez, 119.4 lbs of Mexicali, MEX is 18-4.

“I want to thank God, Ring City USA and NBC Sports Network for this opportunity,” said Caraballo. “What we did was worked that uppercut, we knew he was a big, strong guy. I knew I had to work that body and sooner or later the uppercut would come. When it did, we finished the fight.”

“I am 100% sure that I am the most distinguished prospect on the island,” boasted Caraballo. “My goal was to go in there and get a couple rounds in, and I got it done.”

Eduardo Baez Decisions Ortiz

Eduardo Baez won an eight-round unanimous decision over Abimael Ortiz in a super bantamweight bout.

Baez landed 366 of 1171 punches; Ortiz was 130 of 650.

Baez, 121.6 lbs of Mexicali, MEX won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 19-1-2. Ortiz, 121.6 lbs of Cidra, PR is 8-1-1.

“From the first to the last round we followed the strategy and that’s what gave us the victory,” said Eduardo Baez. “The strategy was to go forward without getting hit and that’s what we did.”

“Abimael is very strong physically and has power,” added Baez. “But I listened to my corner and have good physical condition and that was the key to win.”

“I wanted to show them that conditioning inside of the ring is key so I would throw a lot of punch combinations during sparring so that they would be used to that high intensity interval training in the ring,” said Chocolatito in a Ring City USA event earlier this week. “They always push forward in the ring and have great conditioning so that is a great factor.”

Juan Carlos Camacho won an eight-round split decision over Marvin Solano in a bantamweight fight.

In round eight, Camacho scored a knockdown with a right hand.

Camacho won two cards 76-75. Solano won a card 78-73.

Camacho, 116.4 lbs of Juana Diaz, PR is 12-1. Solano, 117.6 lbs of Juana Diaz, PR is 23-6.

Midyael Sanchez won an eight-round split-decision over Ryan Pino in a super welterweight bout,

In round two, Sanchez dropped Pino with a big left hook.

He needed that as Pino made a furious rally over the second half of the fight.

Sanchez, 149.6 lbs of San Juan, PR won two cards 76-75 while, Pino, 147.6 lbs of San Juan, PR took a card 76-75.

Sanchez is 9-1. Pino is 8-6-2.

Oscar Colllazo won a six-round unanimous decision over Francisco Bonilla in a flyweight bout.

Collazo, 111.6 lbs of Puerto Rico won by scores of 60-54 on all cards is now 3-0. Bonilla, 11.6 lbs of Chihuahua, MEX is 6-10-3.

Arely Mucino won an eight-round unanimous decision over Lucia Hernandez in a super flyweight bout.

In round eight, Mucino landed a short right that made the Glove of Hernandez touch the ground for a knockdown.

Muciono, 115 lbs of Monterrey, MEX won by scores of 80-71 on all cards, and is now 29-3-2. Hernandez, 109.2 lbs of Mexico City, MEX is 7-11.

Angel Carranza won a four-round unanimous decision over Eduardo Melendez in a lightweight bout.

In round one, Carranza dropped Melendez with a short left hook.

Carranza, 131 1/2 lbs of Hatillo, PR won by scores of 40-35 on all cards, and is now 2-0. Melendez, 130 3/4 lbs of Santa Isabel, PR is 5-30.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – March 23, 2021 – Boxing legend Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez met with the media on Tuesday to provide a glimpse inside the training camp of Eduardo and Leonardo Baez, the identical twins who will fight on the main card of Ring City USA’s final event from Puerto Rico, live on NBC Sports Network this Thursday, March 25 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

Thursday’s main event from the Plaza del Quinto Centernario in Old San Juan is the previously announced 10-round title fight featuring seven-division world champion and future Hall of Famer Amanda Serrano (39-1-1, 29 KOs) defending her WBO and WBC featherweight world titles against current two-division titlist Daniela Bermudez (29-3-3, 10 KOs). 

“Chocolatito” was a training and sparring partner the last two months with identical twin brothers Eduardo and Leonardo Baez, both of whom are featured on the loaded undercard this Thursday. Head trainer Marcos Caballero, who held camp in Coachella, Calif. for the three fighters, is in Puerto Rico this week to work both corners. On March 13, Gonzalez and long-time rival Juan Francisco Estrada engaged in a sure-fire ‘Fight of the Year’ candidate, an epic clash which still has the boxing world buzzing. This past weekend Gonzalez received a hero’s welcome in his hometown of Managua, Nicaragua.

In an eight-round bantamweight clash, Puerto Rico’s Abimael ‘Manos de Piedra’ Ortiz (8-0-1, 4 KOs) battles Mexico-born Eduardo ‘Lalo El Gemelo’ Baez (18-1-2, 6 KOs), who now fights out of Calexico, Calif. Also featured on the NBC Sports Network card is an eight-round battle in the super-bantamweight division when hard-hitting Carlos ‘Purin’ Caraballo (13-0-0, 13 KOs) of Ponce, P.R., hits the squared circle against Leonardo ‘Leon’ Baez (18-3-0, 9 KOs) of Mexicali, Mexico.

Gonzalez spoke with the media to share insights from training camp with the Baez twins, in addition to his mentality following his controversial decision loss to Juan Francisco Estrada on March 13. Below are highlights from his conversation with the media: 

ROMAN “CHOCOLATITO” GONZALEZ

On the chance for the Baez brothers to fight on Ring City: “This is a great opportunity. They are two young fighters who are taking great advantage of their opportunities. They have a great staff behind them and at the same time, they take advantage of the opportunities. You can see it in their work ethic in the gym. These types of opportunities for prospects are a big step up and they are ready.”

On what the brothers learned from him: “I tried to teach them a lot. I tried to teach them through my experience. I wanted to show them that conditioning inside of the ring is key so I would throw a lot of punch combinations during sparring so that they would be used to that high intensity interval training in the ring.”

On what’s impressed him with the Baez brothers: “They are very strong, and they know how to combine their punches very well. On top of that, they have a great work ethic. They always push forward in the ring and have great conditioning so that is a great factor.”

On the improvements of the Baez brothers: “They are learning. They have learned to combine their hands a lot more with faster ability in their punches. I believe their physical conditioning has improved a lot too. They have been doing their physical and strength, along with boxing, with me.”

On how working with the Baez brothers helps him: “It’s a fountain of youth. It’s great to train alongside prospects like the Baez brothers. They have a great amount of energy and it rubs off. It’s great chemistry to work not just with prospects but really good prospects. They help me a lot in my preparation.”

On Leonardo’s last fight against Jason Maloney: “I don’t think every fight is the same. For that fight, he only had two weeks to prepare. But for this fight, he is well prepared, and I know he is going to come out with the victory.”

On how he tells the brothers apart: “One of them, in their last fight, had stitches in their head so I identify them by the scar but before I couldn’t.”

On whether he watched his fight against Estrada: “Only highlights. The game plan that we focused on in the gym was well executed but the decision wasn’t there.”

On his mindset after the fight: “I feel well. I feel happy and loved with my family. I am happy with the outcome of my preparation even though the decision wasn’t there.”

On the suspension of judge Carlos Sucre: “I feel good about it. It’s the best that they have done. I believe that it looks toward bringing justice to all boxers.”

On retirement: “I’ve never said, and never even hinted, at retirement. I gave an excellent fight against Estrada and I am not going to retire after that great victory.”

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About Ring City USA

Ring City, which launched in 2020, is boxing’s newest sports media platform. Working in tandem with a variety of promoters and talent, its new boxing series places an emphasis on competitive matchups that genuinely test the fighters and excite the fight fans. Ring City provides great fights in the ring and compelling shoulder programming outside of the ring. Ring City is the proving ground where up-and-coming talent can earn their stripes and launch themselves into the upper echelon of boxing stardom.