LAS VEGAS (May 1, 2025) — Nearly four years have passed since Naoya Inoue last fought in the United States.

But on Sunday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, The Monster makes his stateside return.

Inoue (29-0, 26 KOs) will defend his undisputed junior featherweight championship against San Antonio’s Ramon Cardenas (26-1, 14 KOs). It’ll be the biggest challenge of Cardenas’s career, but it’ll also be a shot to author an upset of the kind that once silenced Tokyo in 1990.

In the co-feature, Mexico’s  Rafael Espinoza (26-0, 22 KOs) will defend his WBO featherweight world title against Texas-born former title challenger Edward Vazquez (17-2, 4 KOs).

Inoue-Cardenas and Espinoza-Vazquez will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard will begin at 6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT and features the return of unbeaten Dominican welterweight Rohan Polanco (15-0, 10 KOs), who meets Argentina’s heavy-handed Fabian Maidana (24-3, 18 KOs) in a 10-rounder.

Also, rising Mexican American prospect Emiliano Fernando Vargas (13-0, 11 KOs) will take on Spain’s Juan Leon (11-2-1, 2 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight tilt.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Ohashi Promotion, Teiken Promotions, and Sampson Boxing, tickets are on sale now via AXS.com.

At Friday’s press conference, this is what the fighters said:

Naoya Inoue

“The last two times I was here, it was during the pandemic, and I had to train accordingly. But this time I’m fighting at T-Mobile, and that’s going to be the biggest difference.”

“I’m very motivated to fight in front of an American crowd in a big arena like this, but because it’s during Cinco De Mayo Weekend, it feels like I’m playing an away game. So I don’t know what to expect.”

“The ideal situation is to show the American fans my boxing and win with a knockout. But more than anything, I want people to see something they haven’t been able to see yet in the U.S.”

“Cardenas is a very well-rounded fighter. And I think it’s a good platform to show my boxing skills.”

Ramon Cardenas

“I remember watching 24/7 with Oscar De La Hoya-Floyd Mayweather. I remember watching them and wanting to be here. And now I’m here. Also, fighting for a world title is one thing, but fighting for the undisputed title is more than I could ever ask for. It makes me hungrier. It makes me want it more.”

“I know it’s going to be a tough fight. I know Inoue is a pound-for-pound great. But I’m ready for that. I’m ready for the toughest fight of my career. I picture this being a hard fight, but I also picture myself coming out there and doing my thing and showing the world who I am.”

“I need to finish this mission. I’ve lost an uncle on the way. I’ve lost a trainer on the way. And now I’m two days away from accomplishing the mission, and that’s my plan.”

Rafael Espinoza

“This is another opportunity in my career. I think I have shown in each fight that I want to get better each time. This is not the exception. It was one of the best camps I’ve ever had. I feel great physically and mentally, so you can expect the best from me.”

“In my first fight with Ramirez, I knew that nobody knew what I was capable of. And I still haven’t showed what I’m capable, in terms of both my boxing skills and my heart. I have shown a bit, but I still have a lot to show. He’s a great fighter, so it’s a great opportunity to keep showing what I’m made of.”

“This is a great opportunity. I always wanted to fight on these dates, and I’ve always wanted to fight here. And now I’m doing that. So that gives me the motivation to wake up every day and give it a 1000% because I am accomplishing my dreams.”

Edward Vazquez

“It’s going to take violence to win. Total all-out violence. That’s why I’m here. I’m here to hurt him and take that belt back home with me to Texas.”

“For sparring, we’ve had a few guys come in who are 126 and 130 pounds. But for the most part, we used guys who are at 147 and 154, which is what I’m expecting to be at on fight night, so it works out.”

“I was one of the top amateurs at 145 pounds. I was always the smaller guy, but I always fought guys who were 6’1” or 6’2”. I traveled across the country fighting guys like that. If you know me, I’ll get in the ring with anybody.”

Rohan Polanco 

“It’s a Mexican date, so I want to tell Fabian Maidana to make sure he’s coming to fight. Let’s give a great fight to the people.”

“I always come to deliver a great show, as you have all seen in my last fights. This will not be the exception. I’m coming to fight. I’m coming to obtain the victory. And I’m coming to represent my country.”

Emiliano Fernando Vargas

“Fight by fight, we’ll get there. This Sunday is going to be a Super Bowl event. I know we usually fight on Saturdays, but this time on Sunday. I just can’t wait. I know he’s ready. I’m only a pound away. I’m in the best shape. If they thought my last performance was great, I’m going to outshine the last one.”

“Every fighter has an opportunity to make a name. That’s their goal, and that’s my goal as well.  To make my dreams happen, I have to crush his. I know he’s ready. I know it’s going to be a tough fight. I know every fight is going to be a step-up fight.”

Juan Leon

“This is a dream come true. It’s incredible. I want to thank God. I also want to thank my promoter. So, I’m inspired to come here and give everything.”

On receiving the offer to fight Vargas

“At first, I didn’t believe it. I thought it was a joke. But then I saw it was real. I’m filled with inspiration to give everything.”

Art Barrera Jr.

“I’ve been busy. I just fought three, four weeks ago. This is obviously a bigger card, bigger opportunity, so it’s definitely a great opportunity to show my skill set.”

Raeese Aleem

“I’m excited to fight. Every time I step in the ring, I bring it. I earned the nickname ‘The Beast’ for a reason. Fast hands, fast feet, explosive… I’m an entertaining fighter.”

On a potential fight with Espinoza

“I’ve been trying to fight ‘The Tree.’ I’ve been trying to knock that tree down. We’ll see what happens. I have to get through this fight, It’s going to be a tough fight. Every fight at this level is extremely tough, but I’m going to show up and show out, and I’m looking for a big fight next.”

Sunday, May 4

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

Naoya Inoue vs. Ramon Cardenas, 12 rounds, Inoue’s Undisputed Junior Featherweight World Title

Rafael Espinoza vs. Edward Vazquez, 12 rounds, Espinoza’s WBO Featherweight World Title 
 

ESPN+ (6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT)

Rohan Polanco vs. Fabian Maidana, 10 rounds, Polanco’s WBO Intercontinental Welterweight Title

Patrick O’Connor vs. Marcus Smith, 4 rounds, Cruiserweight (swing bout)

LAS VEGAS (May 1, 2025) — For the first time in nearly four years, boxing’s pound-for-pound monster touched down in America for a fight week.

Japanese icon Naoya Inoue (29-0, 26 KOs) and San Antonio’s Ramon Cardenas (26-1, 14 KOs) made their grand arrivals today in Las Vegas ahead of their showdown this Sunday, May 4, at T-Mobile Arena.

Inoue will defend his undisputed junior featherweight championship in his first U.S. appearance since 2021. Cardenas will bid for his first world title and look to author a Texas-sized upset.

In the co-feature, Mexico’s Rafael Espinoza (26-0, 22 KOs) will defend his WBO featherweight world title against Texas-born former world title challenger Edward Vazquez (17-2, 4 KOs).

Inoue-Cardenas and Espinoza-Vazquez will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard will begin at 6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT and features the return of Dominican welterweight contender Rohan Polanco (15-0, 10 KOs), who takes on hard-hitting Argentine Fabian Maidana (24-3, 18 KOs) in a 10-rounder.

Additionally, Mexican American star Emiliano Fernando Vargas (13-0, 11 KOs) will lock horns with Spain’s Juan Leon (11-2-1, 2 KOs) in an eight-rounder at junior welterweight. 

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Ohashi Promotion, Teiken Promotions, and Sampson Boxing, tickets are on sale now via AXS.com.
 
At Thursday’s grand arrivals, this is what the fighters said:

Naoya Inoue

“It’s been four years since I’ve been here, so I’m very excited.”
 
“I am very much aware of what the fans expect of me. And on Cinco De Mayo Weekend, I plan on meeting those expectations.”
 
“{Cardenas} is a very well-rounded fighter. With that being said, he has a very good left. I don’t have time to be cautious.”

Ramon Cardenas

“I’m excited to be here.  I’m blessed to be a part of this weekend because we know it’s a historic week in boxing. And to be here, seeing my name on these billboards, is a blessing.”
 
“It means a lot to represent Mexico during this weekend because we’ve had legends and warriors fight on this weekend. I’m going to give my all.”
 
“This is a dream come true for me. I have to finish completing this dream. I’ve lost an uncle on this journey. I’ve lost a trainer on this journey. So, to be able to accomplish my dream of becoming a world champion is my goal.”
 
“I have nothing to lose and everything to gain. I have no pressure on me, so I’m going to go out there and give the fans a great show.”

“I’m not here for the money. I’m here for the legacy. If I become a world champion, nobody can take that away from me.”

Rafael Espinoza
 
“I feel butterflies in my stomach! I’m happy because these are the dates I’ve always wanted to fight on. This is the place I’ve always wanted to fight at. So, it’s a dream come true, and it fills me with motivation. And I also have a strong desire to steal the show that night.”
 
“I consider myself to be a fighter who should be using my distance. But I like to fight on the inside. I know it’s one of my advantages. I’m tall, but exchanging punches is what has worked for me, and I feel that my conditioning has made me strong, so I try to take advantage of that.”
 
“He’s Mexican like me. He likes to come forward. So, his style will mesh well with mine because we’re both going to come forward. It’s going to be a great fight. I’m sure. I want to demonstrate that I’m ready for big things.”

Edward Vazquez

“I feel blessed to be here. The emotions are there, but I have to stay focused. I have to stay locked in. I’m trying to stay locked in and not let all of this get to me. I’m taking it moment by moment.”

“In the past, I’ve felt like I’ve only come short by a few points in fights. But Sunday night will be my opportunity to score a big point. That’s what’s on my mind.”

“You can expect all action. We’re going to leave it all out there. We’re going to give the fans a good show.”
 

Sunday, May 4

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

Naoya Inoue vs. Ramon Cardenas, 12 rounds, Inoue’s Undisputed Junior Featherweight World Title

Rafael Espinoza vs. Edward Vazquez, 12 rounds, Espinoza’s WBO Featherweight World Title 
 

ESPN+ (6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT)Rohan Polanco vs. Fabian Maidana, 10 rounds, Polanco’s WBO Intercontinental Welterweight Title

Patrick O’Connor vs. Marcus Smith, 4 rounds, Cruiserweight (swing bout)

GUADALAJARA, Mexico (April 25, 2025) — Mexico’s featherweight king, Rafael Espinoza, plans to steal the spotlight on Cinco de Mayo Weekend.

The 31-year-old Espinoza defends his WBO crown against Edward Vazquez on Sunday, May 4, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Espinoza-Vazquez will serve as the co-feature to the undisputed junior featherweight showdown between Japanese pound-for-pound icon Naoya Inoue and San Antonio-born contender Ramon Cardenas.

Espinoza (26-0, 22 KOs) built his career in Mexico before shocking two-time Olympic gold medalist Robeisy Ramirez for the WBO title in December 2023. Dropped in the fifth, he stormed back to score a 12th-round knockdown and claim a majority decision in ESPN’s Upset of the Year. He defended the title last June with a fourth-round TKO versus Sergio Chirino before ending the Ramirez rivalry by stopping him in six in their December rematch. Vazquez (17-2, 4 KOs), from Fort Worth, Texas, enters his second world title opportunity after knocking out Kenneth Taylor in four rounds last October.

Inoue-Cardenas and Espinoza-Vazquez 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 Ohashi Promotion, Teiken Promotions, and Sampson Boxing, tickets are on sale now via AXS.com.

This is what Espinoza said following a recent training session in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico:

“Edward Vazquez is a great fighter. He’s going to come with everything. We chose him because we know it would make for an exciting fight. This is an important fight for me. At the same time, I don’t like to predict knockouts or tell people how the fight will end. I’m simply going to do my job. If the knockout comes, then great. Either way, I’m scoring a win for my people.”

“I’m treating Vazquez as if he were an unbeaten champion. That’s how I’m taking things in my preparation, and that will ensure I don’t come in overconfident. Also, I know that it’s a huge opportunity for him, so he will come in the best shape possible.”

“It’s a great responsibility to fight on such an important weekend for Mexicans, so I see it as a source of motivation. I want to continue representing Mexico on these important fight dates.”

“The only thing on my mind is Edward Vazquez and defeating him on May 4. But at the same time, I’d like to show the Japanese people that I’m also ready for Naoya Inoue. That kind of fight would help me become one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.”

“I’m going to steal the show on May 4 and give all the Mexicans in attendance a great night.”

MEXICO CITY (April 9, 2025) — WBO featherweight world champion Rafael Espinoza and Mexican-American junior welterweight phenom Emiliano Fernando Vargas joined forces for a special press conference Tuesday afternoon in Mexico City.

Espinoza (26-0, 22 KOs) will defend his crown against former world title challenger Edward Vazquez as the co-feature to the Naoya Inoue-Ramon Cardenas undisputed junior featherweight world title showdown on Sunday, May 4, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Vargas (13-0, 11 KOs), the son of former world champion Fernando Vargas, will see action on the bill in an eight-rounder against an opponent to be named.

A capable singer, Espinoza regaled the crowd with his rendition of “El Rey” while backed by a mariachi band. He then visited the famed Romanza Gym, where Hall of Fame trainer Nacho Beristáin has nurtured world champions such as Juan Manuel Marquez and Jhonny Gonzalez for over three decades. Espinoza aims to make the third defense of his title on Cince De Mayo weekend, five months removed from a sixth-round TKO over Robeisy Ramirez in their rematch.

Vargas made his 2025 debut on March 29 with a blistering second-round stoppage over Giovannie Gonzalez. Fully recovered from a hand injury that sidelined him for several months, Vargas makes a rapid return on a Las Vegas super card.

This is what Espinoza and Vargas had to say at Tuesday’s press conference.

Rafael Espinoza 

“We know that Vazquez is an opponent who is very prepared. We know that it’s going to make for a great fight. He’s a warrior who’s not going to give up because he wants everything that I have. So, you are going to see the best version of ‘El Divino.'”

“The Vazquez fight is my priority, but I want the {Inoue} fight because it’s going to make me a pound-for-pound fighter, and that’s my goal. It’s a very strong goal.”

“I haven’t shown what I’m capable of. I’m a world champion, but I want to show that I’m the best.”

Emiliano Fernando Vargas

“This is something really special to me, being here in Mexico City, which is where my blood is from. I’m proud to be Mexican and American and happy to be here.”

“I want to keep winning. I want to keep growing. The only thing I’m focused on is my May 4 bout, and we have about four fights planned for this year. But I gotta get through May 4 first and keep winning. I’m going to shine like the star that God made me. He made me in his image and a little in the image of my dad. I’m happy to be back May 4.”

Inoue-Cardenas and Espinoza-Vazquez will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Vargas’ bout and the rest of the undercard will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Ohashi Promotion, Teiken Promotions, and Sampson Boxing, tickets are on sale now via AXS.com.

LAS VEGAS (March 17, 2025) — “The Monster” is ready to hit his next undisputed junior featherweight world title defense out of the park. 

Japanese icon Naoya Inoue will defend all the belts against Ramon Cardenas on Sunday, May 4, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Inoue-Cardenas and the WBO featherweight title bout between reigning champion Rafael Espinoza and top contender Edward Vazquez will headline a world championship doubleheader that will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The Inoue-Cardenas card is scheduled to air immediately following the Sunday Night Baseball game between Shohei Ohtani’s Los Angeles Dodgers and the Atlanta Braves.

Undercard bouts will be announced soon and stream live and exclusively on ESPN+.

“This is a tremendous platform for Inoue to perform, as he and the incomparable Ohtani are two of Japan’s most decorated athletes,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “This promises to be a special event at T-Mobile Arena and for boxing fans watching on ESPN.”

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Ohashi Promotion, Teiken Promotions, and Sampson Boxing, tickets are on sale now via AXS.com.

LAS VEGAS (March 13, 2025) — Featherweight boxing has long been central to Mexico’s pugilistic tradition, and Rafael “El Divino” Espinoza is ready to honor that legacy on Cinco de Mayo Weekend.
 
Espinoza will defend his WBO featherweight world title against former world title challenger Edward Vazquez on Sunday, May 4, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
 
Espinoza-Vazquez, presented in association with Zanfer Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, will be the co-feature to the undisputed junior featherweight showdown between pound-for-pound icon Naoya Inoue and San Antonio native Ramon Cardenas.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Ohashi Promotion, Teiken Promotions, and Sampson Boxing, pre-sale tickets are available now by clicking HERE. The public on-sale is scheduled for Friday, March 14, at 10 a.m. PT via AXS.com.
 
Broadcast and undercard information will be announced soon.
 
“Rafael Espinoza is a towering featherweight with the power and skills to be a world champion for years to come, and we’re excited to showcase him on such a meaningful weekend for Mexican boxing,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum “Edward Vazquez is a tough, determined challenger who knows this is his shot to change everything. Fans at T-Mobile Arena are in for a treat as Espinoza shares the spotlight with the incomparable Naoya Inoue on this historic Cinco de Mayo card.”
 
Espinoza (26-0, 22 KOs) built his career almost exclusively in Mexico before shocking two-time Olympic gold medalist Robeisy Ramirez for the WBO crown in December 2023. Dropped in the fifth, he stormed back to floor the Cuban in the 12th and secured a majority decision in ESPN’s Upset of the Year. He defended his title in June with a fourth-round TKO over Sergio Chirino, then ran it back with Ramirez in December, breaking him down and stopping him in six. Now, Espinoza looks to make his third world title defense in a division long ruled by Mexican greats like Salvador Sanchez, Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera, and Juan Manuel Marquez. 
 
Espinoza said, “I’m thrilled to return to the ring, especially in the city where I always dreamed of fighting, Las Vegas. Fighting at T-Mobile Arena is also a dream come true, which adds even more excitement for me. Edward Vazquez is a tough fighter who wants to take what’s mine. But I’m prepared to show him that I’m here to stay as a champion. I cannot wait for May 4 to reaffirm that once again.”
 
Vazquez (17-2, 4 KOs), from Fort Worth, Texas, compiled an 11-0 record before suffering a highly controversial split decision defeat to eventual world champion Raymond Ford in February 2022. He rebounded with four victories before stepping up in weight to challenge undefeated IBF junior lightweight champion Joe Cordina in November 2023. Vazquez gave Cordina all he could handle in Monte Carlo, but Cordina retained his title with a majority decision. He returned to form with a decision over Daniel Bailey last May before blasting out Kenneth Taylor in four in October. 
 
Vazquez said, “May 4 can’t get here soon enough. I started boxing at eight years old and have been a pro for over nine years. Nothing has ever been handed to me. I earned this opportunity. Espinoza is a fantastic fighter and a deserving champion, but he has never stepped into the ring with someone like ‘Kid’ Vazquez.”

Myquan Williams remained undefeated with a eighth and final round stoppage over Lavaisas Williams in a junior welterweight bout.

In round one, Myquan Williams dropped Lavaisas Williams with an hard overhand right. Myquan dropped Lavaisas the end of the round with another big right.

In round five, Lavaisas began to swell under his right eye. In round eight, Myquan landed a another booming left that put Lavaisas down and the fight was waived off at 1:28.

Myquan Williams, 140 lbs of Hartford, CT is 22-0-2 with 11 knockouts, Lavaisas Williams, 138.6 lbs of Rochester, NY is 10-2-1.

Konrad Kaczmarkiewicz defeated Khainell Wheeler via six-round split decision in a light heavyweight bout.

Kaczmarkiewicz, 171 lbs of Szozecin, POL won on two cards by 59-55 scores. Wheeler got a card 58-56.

Kaczmarkiewicz is now 8-1-1. Wheeler, 174 lbs of Bethlehem, PA is 7-6.

Former world title challenger Edward Vazquez stopped Kenneth Taylor after round four of their of their 10-round junior lightweight fight.

Vazquez pressured Taylor throughout the contest and the corner stopped the bout in the corner.

Vazquez, 130 lbs of Fort Worth, TX is 17-2 with four knockouts. Taylor, 129 lbs of Tyler, TX is 14-4-2.

Jerry Forrest won a eight-round unanimous decision over Earl Newman in a heavyweight fight.

Forrest, 216.8 lbs of Lafyette, LA won by scores of 79-73 and 78-74 twice and is now 28-6-2. Newman, 252.8 lbs of Brooklyn is 10-4-1.

NEW YORK, NY (October 11, 2024) Texas sensation Edward “Kid” Vazquez has been added to DiBella Entertainment’s “Heroes on the Hudson 2”, live from The Theater at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday, October 23. Vazquez will take on Kenneth Taylor as they vie for the vacant IBF USBA Junior Lightweight Title in a 10-round clash. The fight will be a part of the ProBoxTV livestream, beginning at 8:00pm ET. A portion of the proceeds from “Heroes on the Hudson 2” will be donated to West Point Society of New York, Merging Vets & Players, and The Headstrong Project.

Tickets for “Heroes On The Hudson 2”, priced at $182, $157, $82 and $57, are on sale now and can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com HERE. Doors at The Theater at Madison Square Garden will open on the night of the event at 7:00 PM ET.

How to Watch: Download the free ProBoxTV app available in all app stores, in English and Spanish. It is available on Apple TV, Fire TV, Roku, Samsung, LG and Fubo Sports Channel, as well as on ProBoxTV’s YouTube channel.

“Eddie Vazquez has proven himself against the top fighters in the world and arguably should be an undefeated world champion. His fight against Joe Cordina was a war ending in a controversial decision that should have gone Edward’s way,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Now, after a rebound victory in May, Vazquez is ready to climb back up the ranks of the junior lightweight division. On October 23, he has the opportunity to seize the USBA title when he collides with the tough Kenneth Taylor at The Theater at Madison Square Garden.”

Vazquez (16-2, 3 KOs) has been anxious to return to the ring following his dominant win against Daniel Bailey in May. The fight followed a controversial majority decision loss to Joe Cordina in November 2023 in an action-packed “Fight of the Year” contender that many felt should have seen Vazquez being awarded with Cordina’s IBF Junior Lightweight World Title. Cordina subsequently lost his belt to Anthony Cacace in May when the two met in Saudi Arabia. 

Vazquez has since beat the drum in media interviews and on social media, looking to secure a fight with Cacace or any titleholder at either 126 or 130 pounds, as he is comfortable at either weight.

A consummate fighter, Vazquez stays ready for any opportunity that should come his way. 

“I train every single day. Being a fighter, the fire I have in me is something that never ever goes out. I could be 0-20 and this fire inside me will never extinguish. This is my lifestyle and all I’ve ever known. I’m training my ass off every day and am always ready for whenever the call comes.” 

The call to fight came, with Kenneth Taylor (14-3-2, 6 KOs), of Tyler, TX, in the opposite corner. “The Problem Child,” as Taylor is known, is coming off of a hard-fought decision loss to Victor Hernandez in April. 

“I’m not looking past Taylor,” said Vazquez. “I am 100 percent focused on October 23 and winning the USBA title.” 

“It’s going to be a great fight,” said Taylor. “I can guarantee that there’s going to be fireworks. I think we’re going to steal the show. 

“This opportunity is long overdue for me,” he continued. “I’m excited to be on this stage, but we’re treating it like another day at the office. We’ll celebrate when the job is done. I’ve been proving myself and putting on shows for my fans since my amateur days. By the end of the bout, I’m hoping people will walk away saying that it was one of the best fights they’ve seen or that they want to see us fight again.”

In the “Heroes on the Hudson 2” main event, Miyo Yoshida (17-4) rematches Shurretta Metcalf (13-4-1, 2 KOs) for Yoshida’s IBF Bantamweight World Title. The two faced off at the first annual Heroes on the Hudson event last November, with Metcalf winning a unanimous decision. 

“Heroes on the Hudson 2” is proudly sponsored by CAVU Securities and Morgan Stanley. Companies interested in purchasing sponsorship packages available can contact DiBella Entertainment at (212) 947-2577.

A portion of the event’s proceeds will be donated to the following Veterans causes: 

West Point Society of New York provides camaraderie and support to graduates and former cadets of the United States Military Academy.  

Merging Vets & Players is an organization that combines veterans with the sporting community to help our heroes thrive and make connections and a difference on the field and in their communities. Learn more at vetsandplayers.org

The Headstrong Project provides free, confidential, and easy-to-access mental healthcare for members of the military community. More information can be found at theheadstrongproject.org.

Further details on this event will be announced shortly.

DiBella Entertainment

Instagram: @DiBellaEnt

X: @LouDiBella, @DiBellaEnt

Facebook: @DiBellaEntertainment

Joe Cordina won a razor-thin majority decision over Edward Vazquez to retain the IBF Junior Lightweight title at Casino De Monaco in Monte Carlo.

It was a close fight with Vazquez pushing the fight on the inside. Cordina was able to land some good combinations in the nip-and-tuck battle.

Cordina, 129.9 lbs of Cardiff, WAL won by scores of 116-112 twice and 114-114 and is now 17-9. Vazquez, 128.8 lbs of Fort Worth, TX is 15-2.

Adrian Curiel shocked Sivenathi Nontshinga with a stunning second round stoppage to win the IBF Light Flyweight title.

Curiel landed a booming overhand right that sent Nontshinga down and out at 1:09.

Curiel, 107.9 lbs of Mexico City is 24-4-1 with five knockouts. Nontshinga, 107.7 lbs of Reeston, SA is 12-1.

Soueymane Cissokho won a 12-round unanimous decision over Isaias Lucero in a welterweight bout.

In round 11, Lucero was cut around his right eye.

Cissokho, 146.5 lbs of Paris won by scores of 118-109 twice and 117-110 and is 17-0. Lucero, 147 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 16-2.

In round two, Cissokho dropped Lucero with a right Hamd.

Ramla Ali avenged her only professional defeat by winning a 10-round unanimous decision over Julissa Alejandra Guzman in a super bantamweight bout.

Ali, who was stopped by Guzman in February, won by scores of 96-94 on all cards and is now 9-1. Guzman, 121.5 lbs of Ciudad, MEX is 13-3-2.

10 x 2 mins vacant WBA International Super-Bantamweight Title
JULISSA ALEJANDRA GUZMAN 121.5 lbs v RAMLA ALI 121.8 lbs
(Ciudad Obregon, Mexico)                              (Mogadishu, Somalia)

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBC Silver Welterweight Title
SOULEYMANE CISSOKHO 146.6 lbs v ISAIAS LUCERO 147 lbs
(Paris, France)                                         (Tijuana, Mexico)

followed by

12 x 3 mins IBF Light-Flyweight World Title
SIVENATHI NONTSHINGA 107.7 lbs v ADRIAN CURIEL DOMINGUEZ 107.9 lbs
(Reeston, South Africa)                        (Mexico City, Mexico)

followed by

12 x 3 mins IBF Super-Featherweight World Title
JOE CORDINA 129.9 lbs v EDWARD VAZQUEZ 128.8 lbs
(Cardiff, Wales)                   (Fort Worth, USA)

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:
 
“Welcome to Monaco and it feels so good to be back with our friends at SBM and Casino de Monte Carlo ahead of a huge night of World championship boxing, a double-header of World championship action live from Monaco on DAZN around the world.
 
“It’s been four years since we graced this venue, a unique environment for boxing.
 
“The main event, in my opinion, the best 130-pounder in the world, Joe Cordina will defend his IBF title against Edward Vazquez, a tough fight for Joe as he looks to unify the division in 2024 and Sivenathi Nontshinga defends his IBF strap against Adrian Curiel Dominguez in our other World title bout and he’s one of the most exciting fighters in the world after a couple of incredible fights, one in his native South Africa and a fight of the year contender in Mexico.
 
“We believe Souleymane Cissokho is France’s next World champion and he’s in a good fight with Isaias Lucero, and for me, one of the fights of the night, Ramla Ali will attempt to overcome the defeat she suffered to Julissa Guzman in a fantastic female fight on the card.”
 
Joe Cordina:
 
“It’s been four years since I boxed here last and it’s a special place that has a special place in my heart.
 
“He’s a good fighter, I’ve never once disrespected him. I’m taking this very seriously, don’t worry about that. I saw in an interview that I am taking him lightly, trust me, I’ve never taken a journeyman lightly never mind a world title fight. This is a fight that can potentially set up my future and my kids’ future. I’ve got three kids to look after so every time it gets tough, I think of my kids. Without me winning on Saturday, those big fights aren’t going to be there for me, so I’ll do everything possible to get the win.
 
“He’s going to bring it because it’s a big opportunity for him. He’s a good fighter, I watched the fight against Ford, and I thought he should have had it, so he’s going to bring the heat but I am ready to match it. 
 
“People said I didn’t have power, I knocked out Ogawa. Then they said I can only look pretty, and I showed I can dig down against Rakhimov. If you come into the gym and see how I train and spar, I do that on the daily, but the Rakhimov fight is the only one that I’ve had to get out of first gear. So, me saying you have to be special to beat me, it’s not being cocky, I believe in my ability. I’ve done it time after time as a pro and all through my 180 amateur fights, I’ve beaten some great, great fighters that have won Olympic and World medals. It’s not a fluke, I am the real deal.
 
“I’m hoping Michael will give me a few more tickets to get my fans in! I told them not to book until I found out the deal with the tickets, but they booked anyway. They have come over anyway and they’ll be in the Irish bar waiting for me to get out, but first and foremost I’ve got to get the job done on Saturday. I know he’s going to put it all on the line, and I am ready to do the same too.”
 
Edward Vazquez:
 
“I’m thankful to Matchroom and Lou DiBella for this opportunity, I feel like everyone has their time and this is my time. I’m here for a reason, I’m blessed to be here, and I am prepared. If you have looked at my career, I’ve been the challenger every time and I’ve come out on top, except from that bullshit call, you know what I am talking about (split decision loss to Raymond Ford, February 2022). I’m here to pull the upset and ready to handover a Texas ass-whooping and do what we do.
 
“I hope he is overlooking me. I don’t care how he is looking at it, I just want him to be 100 per cent ready, I don’t want to hear any excuses. Every time I beat these guys that I am supposed to lose to, there’s always some bullshit excuse that comes out, like training camp was bad, my coach was bad, weigh-cut was bad, something like that. I don’t want to hear any of that; I’m 100 per cent ready, we had all the time to get ready for the fight so come Saturday night, we’ll see who the best man is.
 
“I just have to do me, listen to my coach and my team and stick to the game plan. He’s got a lot of great attributes, but he’s never been in there with someone like me and he’s going to find out.”
 
Sivenathi Nontshinga:
 
“Thank you for granting me this opportunity to fight here, I’m looking forward to the fight, I’ve been working hard with my team, and I am glad to be here. I believe it takes a special person to achieve such greatness.
 
“I am going to get inside the ring and do what I know, nothing more, nothing less. I expect a good clean fight, I am used to big stages now and the ability I have to get inside the ring and do the job, it makes me a special person and I want to give the people of Monaco a great fight like I did in Mexico.”
 
Adrian Curiel Dominguez:
 
“I am completely committed to getting this victory and taking the belt home to Mexico. I saw the Rocky Hernandez fight and I think it shows the hunger that we’ve got, I need to almost die to win this belt and he needs to be prepared to do the same if he wants to get the victory, but it will be me that gets it.”
 
Souleymane Cissokho
 
“I feel like I am at home fighting in Monaco, we’ve had a very good camp, working very hard and I can’t wait to get back in the ring on Saturday night.
 
“We are looking for those big title fights, so Isaias is a good fight for me, we know that Mexican fighters are very tough, so I can’t wait to share the ring with him and then move forward for World titles.”
 
Isaias Lucero:
 
“There’s lots of hunger to get the win. I’m really enjoying this experience so I want to go through and get the victory. I understand that it will be difficult because I am facing someone with great amateur pedigree, but I want to do my best.”
 
Julissa Guzman:
 
“It’s great to have another opportunity for a big fight but it’s different this time as I am defending what is mine. I am no longer the challenger, and this is going to make it even more difficult for Ramla, as I know you are going to run, and I am ready to fly at you in the ring. I am going to make good on my promise to knock you out. 
 
“I have to come through Saturday but as I have said before, the decision to take this rematch will go in my favour and after this fight, I want to face the best in the division because I want to be the best.”
 
Ramla Ali:
 
“It is a huge fight for me. A lot of people are saying to me ‘why are you jumping straight into this rematch?’ I was speaking to Steve Bunce earlier who was giving me props for it, but with me, my whole life has been riddled with challenges, as everyone knows my backstory has been talked about. I’ve had challenges in my personal life and my sporting life, and you have to accept those challenges. I was telling Steve; I was watching a Baseball movie and there was a quote that said ‘never let the fear of striking out keep you from plating the game’. So, you can never let fear keep you from doing what you want to do and from achieving your dreams and goals.
 
“All fights I have had in my opinion have been tough. I have trained equally as hard for my pro debut as I did for this camp. So, I consider every person in front of me as a challenge. I always try to stay disciplined; I like to get involved and have a bit of a tear-up, who doesn’t? Why do we box in the first place? But it is about staying disciplined, sticking to the game plan, listening to Manny Robles as I’ve probably given him more grey hairs in this camp than I have ever done. I know from that; it will be a great day on Saturday.”
 
Michael Wittstock:
 
“To put on an event like this in a venue like this is not easy, and I want to thank the casino for everything they do for us. They have done us proud. In 2013, Prince Albert gave us his blessing and backing to start boxing here, and it was triple G, Gennadiy Golovkin that kickstarted his career here then, came back to fight Martin Murray in a World title fight and then went to America to become a legend and a household name. Gennadiy is in constant contact with me, and his heart is deeply involved in Monaco, he loves the place.
 
“Eddie comes from a family that has been in boxing for many years with his father Barry, and what I like about Matchroom is they have a young team and are the biggest and best promoters in the world. 
 
“Monaco has one thing that it’s really good at and that’s building bridges between other nations and other people. I think that boxing has latched onto that and looking at the bill this weekend, you will see part of that. We’ve come a long way with boxing in Monaco, we’ve had a lot of support from people that have helped us. Eddie, thank you and Frank Smith for all you have done, it’s a privilege to deal with guys and on behalf of Prince Albert, I wish all the boxers the best of luck and to enjoy your time here.”
 
Rudy Tarditi:
 
“It’s very important for us to receive an event like this, for the image of SBM and the casino in the world, so we are very happy to welcome you.”
 
Laurent Puons:
 
“It’s a great pleasure to see Matchroom back in Monaco. On Saturday night you will have the opportunity to attend an amazing boxing event with four title fights, eight high-level and powerful boxers. Believe me on Saturday night, Monaco will be the worldwide capital of boxing – so ‘bonne chance’ to all the boxers, may the best win.”

NEW YORK, NY (July 4, 2023) – The Frisco RoughRiders and DiBella Entertainment are bringing the biggest fight of the year and a night of live boxing to the fight fans of Frisco, TX. On Saturday, July 29, Riders Field will host a viewing party for the long-awaited Errol Spence Jr. versus Terence Crawford undisputed welterweight championship.

Before Spence and Crawford get it on via the jumbotron, a night of live boxing will take place on the field beginning at 7:30 PM. In the main event, scheduled for 10 rounds, Fort Worth’s own Edward “Kid” Vazquez (14-1, 3 KOs), fresh off a big win on Showtime, will fight for the IBF Intercontinental featherweight championship versus hard-hitting Brayan “La Roca” De Gracia (29-2-1, 25 KOs), of Panama, who represents the most experienced opponent of Vazquez’s career.

Once the night of live action is complete, attention will turn to the biggest scoreboard in all of Minor League Baseball, where Spence and Crawford will battle from Las Vegas. All concessions will be open, making this the biggest and best watch party in town.

International Boxing Hall-of-Famer Lou DiBella is also an important figure in Minor League Baseball as the President and Managing General Partner of the Richmond Flying Squirrels, the AA-affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, and the CEO and Managing Owner of the Montgomery Biscuits, the AA-affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays.

“Spence-Crawford is the biggest fight in many years; the two top welterweights in the world, both undefeated and in their prime, will collide to determine who is the best of their era. I am thrilled to bring this tremendous fight to the fans in attendance at Frisco’s Riders Field via the closed-circuit telecast,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “As a special treat, DiBella Entertainment will also deliver a night of live world class boxing, featuring Fort Worth’s Edward Vazquez facing Panamanian KO artist Brayan De Gracia in the main event. Undefeated Armenian welterweight Aram Amirkhanyan and Dallas female boxing star Shurretta Metcalf will highlight the undercard. Boxing at the ballpark, both live and via closed-circuit, was once a longstanding tradition in the sport. On July 29, we will bring that back.”

“It will be peanuts, crackerjacks and fisticuffs on Saturday, July 29 at Riders Field,” said Chuck Greenberg, General Partner and CEO of the Frisco RoughRiders. “Spence vs. Crawford is the biggest boxing event in years and the RoughRiders are thrilled to host a special closed-circuit viewing of the fight for our loyal fans at Riders Field. In addition to the Spence-Crawford fight, DiBella Entertainment will present a live bout card to complement the action-packed evening. This is a truly special and unique event for us and we can’t wait to provide a great night of entertainment.”

Tickets, starting at $35 plus service fees, are on sale NOW and can be purchased through Tickets.com. VIP Ringside seating, including food and drink in the Founders Club presented by Baylor Scott & White Health, are $150. Riders Field is located at 7300 Rough Riders Trl, Frisco, TX 75034. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:30pm CT, with the first bout scheduled for 7:30pm CT. The Spence-Crawford main event closed-circuit broadcast will be shown immediately following the conclusion of the live bouts.

Leading into the Vazquez-De Gracia main event, rising female talent Shurretta Metcalf (11-4-1, 2 KOs), from Dallas, TX, will fight in the co-featured attraction. Metcalf, once ranked the #1 USA super bantamweight as an amateur, is trained by Ozell Nelson, who worked with former undisputed middleweight world champion Jermain Taylor.

Also highlighting the undercard will be undefeated Armenian welterweight prospect Aram Amirkhanyan (14-0-1, 4 KOs). He is a former IBF International, WBO International, and WBA Continental champion. Prior to the pandemic, Amirkhanyan had been world ranked by three of the major sanctioning bodies and the combined record of his last five opponents was 61-3-1. He returned in July 2022 with an eight-round unanimous decision win.

Further details on this event will be announced shortly.

NEW YORK, NY (June 5, 2023) – DiBella Entertainment has inked a promotional agreement with rising featherweight contender Edward “Kid” Vazquez (14-1, 3 KOs), from Fort Worth, TX.

Vazquez hails from a fighting family. His grandfather and uncle were both fighters, along with several cousins. On his seventh birthday, Vazquez asked his father to take him to the local boxing gym in Fort Worth; a birthday present that would change the trajectory of his life. 

This trip to the gym would lead to an impressive amateur record of 82-8, including eight Fort Worth Golden Gloves gold medals, a Texas Golden Gloves gold medal, a win at the Ringside World Championships and a runner-up spot in the 2012 Junior Olympics in Mobile, AL. 

At 18, and fresh out of high school, Vazquez was transitioning to turn professional and traveled up the coast of California looking for sparring and inspiration. He found both, spending time training and sparring with Oscar Valdez and Ryan Garcia, among others. Vazquez made his professional debut in 2016, winning a unanimous decision versus Willie Miller. 

He has been with his current trainer, Ray Barrera, out of FHG Boxing Gym, in Fort Worth, ever since his third pro fight. Vazquez would go on to win 11 bouts before suffering his lone defeat at the hands of Raymond Ford in February 2022. It was a fight that would result in a highly controversial win for Ford, who is now rated in the top 10 by three of the major sanctioning bodies.

Vazquez rebounded from that split decision loss with two wins to close out the year.

In March 2020, Vazquez’s life would change dramatically with the birth of his daughter, Saylor. The pandemic was just getting underway, and becoming a father was both exhilarating and scary for the young fighter. 

“It forced me to level up,” Vazquez said. “I always knew I would make it happen with boxing, but now I have to because I have my daughter.”  

In December 2022, Vazquez would get the call to fight DiBella prospect Misael Lopez on Showtime’s “ShoBox” series. 

“I was hesitant to take the fight because I knew I would be coming in as the ‘B-side,’” said Vazquez. “I was robbed in my fight versus Raymond Ford, and didn’t want that to happen again, but I ultimately accepted the fight.

“It was a good, action-packed fight,” Vazquez continued. “He definitely tested my IQ. He was game, and wasn’t going to back down. He was coming to beat me and was 100% confident he was going to do so. I spoiled the plan.” 

Vazquez would earn a split decision win against Lopez after 10 rounds of action, on February 17, 2023, at the Stormont Vail Event Center, in Topeka, KS.

“I’m thrilled to be working with Edward Vazquez,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “He’s one of the best featherweights in the world and he proved that when he beat Raymond Ford, no matter what the scorecards read. Ford’s now #2 in the world and despite the zero on his record, Edward Vazquez beat him on international television. An interesting and well-spoken kid, Edward has the potential to be a world champion. He should be undefeated and highly world ranked right now. This was a no-brainer signing for DiBella Entertainment.”

“I’m so excited to be a part of DiBella Entertainment,” said Vazquez of the signing. “We’ve worked our entire lives to land a deal with someone as prominent as Lou DiBella. I’ve been fighting for almost 21 years. It’s been a grind. You’re not really sure if it’s going to pay off and it finally seems like it’s going to pay off. 

“Now, we finally have the platform to go after the top 10 featherweights, the top 20 guys,” Vazquez continued. “Lou is finally the guy that can get me in the door. I’m coming for them.” 

“We knew we had something special going into the fight with Lopez,” said DKO Boxing’s Dave Dubinsky, who manages Vazquez along with Jim Kurtz. “We’re thrilled that Lou sees what we do in Vazquez, and we’re looking forward to working with DiBella Entertainment to take Edward to the next level.” 

CARSON, CALIF. – October 6, 2022 – Three exciting showdowns featuring contenders and rising prospects will stream live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME^® Boxing Facebook page this Saturday, October 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif.

With action kicking off at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT, the COUNTDOWN show, hosted by Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, features veteran welterweight contenders Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas and Mykal Fox squaring off in a 10-round bout. Featherweight contenders Viktor Slavinskyi and Edward Vazquez also meet in an eight-round duel, while unbeaten flyweight prospect Gabriela Fundora, the younger sister of unbeaten headliner Sebastian Fundora, kicks off the show battling Mexico’s Naomi Reyes in a 10-round fight.

The preliminary bouts will lead up to a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT featuring Interim WBC Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora defending his belt against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo in the main event.

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

The stacked non-televised undercard lineup also includes unbeaten lightweight prospects Justin Cardona (8-0, 6 KOs) and Angel Alejandro (10-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round matchup, Filipino Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial (2-0, 1 KO) taking on Steven Pichardo (8-2-1, 2 KOs) in a four-round middleweight attraction and super welterweight Brandon Lynch (11-1-1, 8 KOs) facing Argentina’s Roque Junco (11-12-1, 6 KOs) for eight-rounds of action.

Rounding out the card will be unbeaten Phoenix-native Elijah Garcia (11-0, 9 KOs) battling Mexico’s Edgar Valenzuela (7-1, 6 KOs) in a six-round middleweight duel, unbeaten featherweight Shon Mondragon (7-0-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round bout and featherweight Jose Perez (10-1-2, 4 KOs) stepping into the ring for a six-round showdown.

A two-time Olympian for his native Lithuania, Kavaliauskas (22-2-1, 18 KOs) now fights out of California as he seeks a second shot at a 147-pound world title. The 34-year-old came up short in his first attempt, dropping a 2019 title bout against Terence Crawford before most recently losing to unbeaten Vergil Ortiz Jr. in August 2021. He will be opposed by Maryland’s Fox (22-3, 5 KOs), who returns to the ring after dropping a controversial decision to Gabriel Maestre in August 2021. Standing at nearly six-feet-four-inches tall, the 26-year-old has used his size and boxing acumen to establish himself as a crafty contender in a pro career that dates back to 2014.

Originally from Ukraine and residing in Los Angeles, Slavinskyi (13-1-1, 6 KOs) will look to bounce back from his first defeat on October 8, which came via majority decision against hard-hitting contender Claudio Marrero in February. The 32-year-old had previously ridden a six-bout winning streak into that fight, which included a decision triumph over Leduan Barthelemy in June 2021. He will face the 27-year-old Vazquez (12-1, 3 KOs), a Fort Worth, Texas-native who most recently defeated Jose Argel in July. Vazquez’s only blemish came via split-decision against the unbeaten Raymond Ford in February.

Trained by her father Freddy alongside her brother Sebastian, Fundora (8-0, 4 KOs) has impressed since turning pro in May 2021, dominating her competition on her way to eight early wins. The 20-year-old from Coachella, Calif., will return to Dignity Health Sports Park for the third time after earning her first two pro victories at the venue. She will battle Nayarit, Mexico’s Reyes (9-1, 5 KOs), who turned pro in 2016 and suffered her only loss via decision in 2018. Since then, Reyes has put together five-straight victories, with four coming by stoppage.

#         #         #

ABOUT FUNDORA VS. OCAMPO

Fundora vs. Ocampo will see unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora seek to continue his dominance and demonstrate why he’s one of the most feared fighters in boxing when he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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

PHILADELPHIA (JULY 12, 2022)–Featherweight contender Edward Vazquez pounded out a eight-round unanimous over tough Jose Argel in the main event that topped a seven bout card at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The event was promoted by RDR Promotions.

Vazquez of Fort Worth, Texas was able to figure out Argel’s come-forward style early in the contest as the Texan started slowing down Argel with body shots with both hands. Vazquez was equally effective with the uppercut. Argel continued to attempt to press but that was to his detriment as he ate shots to his flank and face from the pinpoint Vazquez.

Vazquez, 128.8 lbs won by scores of 80-72 on all cards to raise his mark to 12-1. Argel, 127.2 lbs of Carolina, Puerto Rico via Chile is now 8-3.

The exciting co-feature produced a toe-to-toe war that saw Oscar Barajas upset Damon Allen Jr. via six-round majority decision in a lightweight contest.

The bout was thrilling as Allen boxed very well behind a nice jab. Barajas started getting through with left hands and that forced Allen to return with some solid counter rights. The fight really picked up over the final three rounds, with some furious exchanges that each fighter held on at various times in the fights.

Two judges preferred Barajas work as he the visitor took two cards by 58-56 tallies, while a third card read even at 57-57.

Barajas of Mexico won his second straight fight over a Philadelphia-based fighter at the 2300 Arena and is now 18-8-1. Allen of Philadelphia is 16-2-1.

Good looking 19 year-old prospect Isaiah Johnson notched his fifth consecutive stoppage as he took out veteran Rondale Hubbert in the opening round of their four-round junior welterweight bout.

Johnson registered three knockdowns and the bout was stopped at 1:57.

Johnson of Sicklerville, New Jersey is 5-0 with five knockouts. Hubbert of Duluth, Minnesota is 14-23-3.

DeAndre Pettus won a four-round unanimous decision over Chukka Willis in a middleweight contest.

Pettus, 160.5 lbs of Columbia, South Carolina won by shutout tallies of 40-36 on all cards and is now 7-1. Willis, 163 lbs of Emporia, Kansas is 4-17.

Former New York Golden Gloves champion Famous Wilson made a successful pro debut by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Vincent Randall in a middleweight tussle.

Wilson, 162.7 lbs of Deer Park, New York won by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37 and is now 1-0. Randall, 157.9 lbs of Valparaiso, Indiana is 0-2.

Boimah Karmo won a four-round unanimous decision over Daniel Jiles in a junior middleweight bout.

Karmo, 152.7 lbs of Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania, won by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 twice and is now 3-0-1. Jiles, 151 lbs of Philadelphia is 0-2.

Najeem Johns needed just 16 seconds to win his pro debut over Darryl Chamberlain in a junior welterweight fight.

Johns of Philadelphia landed a right hook that put Chamberlain down face-first and the bout was over.

Johns, 141 lbs is 1-0 with one knockout. Chamberlain, 134.2 lbs of Baltimore, Maryland is 0-1.

Atlantic City, NJ (July 9, 2022)–Tonight at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, featherweight Edward Vazquez will take on Jose Argel in the main event at The 2300 Arena.

Vazquez of Fort Worth, Texas has a record of 11-1 with three knockouts. The 26 year-old featherweight is a six-year professional who won his first 11 fights.

Those 11 wins were highlighted with victories over Brandon Arvie (11-0), Brandon Cruz (6-0), Adan Ochoa (11-1) and Irvin Gonzalez (14-2). In his last bout, Vazquez was on the wrong end of a very controversial decision as Raymond Ford was awarded a split-decision on February 5th in Phoenix, Arizona.

Most ringside observers, including the DAZN announce crew and a worldwide audience that watched the fight thought that Vazquez deserved to be the winner.

Argel of Carolina, Puerto Rico by way of Santiago, Chile, has a record of 8-3 with two knockouts. The 27 year-old Argel was a former amateur standout in Chile, and won his first eight-bouts. He has taken on three consecutive undefeated opponents. His last fight he lost to decorated prospect Haven Brady Jr. on March 26th in Las Vegas.

At Friday’s weigh-in, Vazquez was 128.8 lbs. Argel was 127.2

The fight can be seen live on BXNGTV.com at 7 PM ET.

DKO Boxing Management is composed of Jim Kurtz and David Dubinsky.

Vazquez is promoted by KO Night Promotions.

PHILADELPHIA PA (July 5, 2022)–THIS SATURDAY NIGHT, July 9th, RDR Promotions will be back at the 2300 Arena with a huge night of boxing that will be headlined by junior lightweight Edward “Kid” Vazquez in the eight-round main event

Vazquez of Fort Worth, Texas has a record of 11-1 with three knockouts. Vazquez, 26 of Fort Worth, Texas is a six-year professional who is already battle tested as he has defeated Brandon Arvie (2-0), Brandon Cruz (6-0), Adan Ochoa (11-1) and Irvin Gonzalez (14-2). His lone blemish came in his latest outing when he was on the wrong end of a very controversial split decision to undefeated former National Golden Gloves champion Raymond Ford on February 5th in Phoenix.

The judges’ scorecards were not in agreement with the fans in the arena and the commentators on DAZN.

Seeing action in six-round bouts:

Damon Allen (16-1-1, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Oscar Barajas (17-8-1, 8 KOs) of Zamora, Mexico in a lightweight fight.

Rasheen Brown (11-1, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia fights an opponent to be named in a featherweight fight.

RDR Promotions fighter, Isaiah Johnson (4-0, 4 KOs) of Sicklerville, NJ takes on veteran Rondale Hubbert (14-22-3, 8 KOs) of Duluth, Minnesota in a lightweight contest

In Four-Round Bouts:

DeAndre Pettus (6-1, 3 KOs) of Columbia, South Carolina takes on Chukka Willis (4-16, 2 KOs) of Emporia, Kansas in a super welterweight bout.

Boimah Karmah (2-0-1) of Sharon Hill, PA fights Daniel Jiles (0-1) of Philadelphia in a welterweight bout.

Famous Wilson of Deer Park, New York makes his pro debut against Vincent Randall (0-1) of Valparaiso, Indiana in a middleweight bout.

Najeem Johns of Philadelphia will make his pro debut against fellow debutant Darryl Chamberlain of Baltimore, MD in a super lightweight fight
Tickets are $100, $75 and $55 and can be purchased at the following Link

https://2300arena.showare.com/orderticketsvenue.asp?p=426

PHILADELPHIA PA (June 28, 2022)–On Saturday night, July 9th, RDR Promotions will be back at the 2300 Arena with a huge night of boxing that will be headlined by junior lightweight Edward “Kid” Vazquez taking on Jose Argel in a fight scheduled for eight-rounds.

Vazquez of Fort Worth, Texas has a record of 11-1 with three knockouts. Vazquez, 26 of Fort Worth, Texas is a six-year professional who is already battle tested.as he has defeated Brandon Arvie (2-0), Brandon Cruz (6-0), Adan Ochoa (11-1) and Irvin Gonzalez (14-2). His lone blemish came in his latest outing when he was on the wrong end of a very controversial split decision to undefeated former National Golden Gloves champion Raymond Ford on February 5th in Phoenix.

The judges scorecards were not in agreement with the fans in the arena and the commentators on DAZN.

Argel of Carolina, Puerto Rico is 8-3 with two knockouts. The 27 year-old will be looking to get back in the win column after three losses to undefeated fighters. In his last bout he lost to Haven Brady Jr. on March 26th in Las Vegas.

Seeing action in six-round bouts:

Nahir Albright (14-2, 7 KOs) of Sicklerville, New Jersey taking on an opponent to be named in a lightweight contest.

Damon Allen (16-1-1, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Oscar Barajas (17-8-1, 8 KOs) of Zamora, Mexico in a lightweight fight.

Frankie Trader (13-2-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight contest.

Rasheen Brown (11-1, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia fights an opponent to be named in a featherweight fight.

DeAndre Pettus (6-1, 3 KOs) of Columbia, South Carolina takes on an opponent to be named in a super welterweight bout.

Eric Tylertucker (7-0, 7 KOs) of Los Angeles takes on an opponent to be named in a welterweight fight.

In Four-Round Bouts:

Boimah Karmah (2-0-1) of Sharon Hill, PA fights Daniel Jiles (0-1) of Philadelphia in a welterweight bout.

Famous Wilson of Deer Park, New York makes his pro debut in a middleweight bout.

Najeem Johns of Philadelphia will make his pro debut in a super lightweight fight against an opponent to be named.
Tickets are $100, $75 and $55 and can be purchased at the following Link

Late-replacement Jesse Rodriguez won the WBC Super Flyweight world title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Carlos Cuadras at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona.

In round three, Rodriguez dropped Cuadras with a left uppercut to the body.

Rodriguez landed 258 of 688 punches; Cuadras was 172 of 944.

Rodriguez, 114.1 lbs of San Antonio, TX won by scores of 117-110 twice and 115-112 and is now 15-0. Cuadras, 114.4 lbs of Mexico City is 39-5-1.

“That was a tough ass fight,” said Rodriguez. “He brought out a Jesse Rodriguez I didn’t know was in me, I’m so happy.
 
“I knew it was going to be a tough fight, he’s a true warrior, I thought I was going to get him out of there but he’s so strong.
 
“I stuck to the game plan, used my angles, but in the fifth round I knew he wasn’t going to go so I stayed composed and did my work.
 
“I feel good at this weight so I will stay here for now but if I get a good fight at 108lbs or 112lbs, maybe I’ll get the winner of Chocolatito vs. Martinez, who knows – I’m just open to the best fights.”

Mitchell Stops Skelly in 4; Retains Bantamweight Title

Jamie Mitchell defended the WBA Bantamweight title with a four round destruction over Carly Skelly.

At the end of round one, Mitchell dropped Skelly with a hard left hook. Mitchell scored another knockdown in round two with a big right hand. In round four, Mitchell landed a vicious flurry of punches that included flush rights hands that snapped Skelly’s head back, and the fight was stopped.

Mitchell of Las Vegas is 8-0-2 with five knockouts. Skelly of Liverpool, ENG is 4-1-1.

“It was cool, my first defense and my most precious fight as a pro,” said Mitchell. “Shout out to Claressa Shields for getting the win in the UK tonight, we had great sparring in the build-up so thank you to her for that. She’s truly the GWOAT and an inspiration.
 
“If you are going to run at me, I’m going to stop you in your tracks and that’s what happened.
 
I am only going to get better, we train all year round, people are sleeping on me but I’m going to slowly wake them up.”

Ford Decisions Vazquez

Raymond Ford was lucky that he had two judges on his side as he was awarded a 10-round split decision over Edward Vazquez in a battle of undefeated featherweights.

Ford landed 95 of 514 while Vazquez was 106 of 428.

Vazquez landed the more telling blows throughout, yet two judges scored the fight 98-92 and 97-93 for Ford. Vazquez won a card 96-94.

Ford, 126 lbs of Camden, NJ is 11-0-1. Vazquez of Fort Worth, Texas is 11-1.

Diaz Decisions Smith

Fernando Diaz won a 10-round unanimous decision over Lorenzo Smith in a flyweight contest.

In round five, Smith dropped Diaz with a left hook.

Diaz landed 173 of 594 punches; Smith was 64 of 339.

Diaz, 111 lbs of Riverside, CA won by scores of 96-93 twice and 95-94 and is now 11-1-1. Smith, 111.5 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is 10-1.

Coe stops O’Sullivan in 2

Khalil Coe remained undefeated with a 2nd round stoppage over Dylan O’Sullivan in a light heavyweight bout.

In round two, Coe dropped O’Sullivan with a left hook. Seconds later Coe ended thing with a left and the fight was stopped.

Coe, 179.5 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is now 2-0-1 with two knockoouts. O’Sullivan, 177.9 lbs of Johnson City, TN is 1-1

Elijah Garcia stropped Antonio Hernandez after round three of their six-round middleweight fight.

Garcia, 163.5 lbs of Glendale, AZ is 10-0 with nine knockouts.

Adam Stewart won a six-round unanimous decision over Alvin Davie in a heavyweight bout.

In round six, Stewart dropped Davie with a right hand.

Stewart, 234 lbs of Phoenix, AZ won by scores of 60-53 on all cards, and is now 13-1-1. Davie, 223.9 lbs of Miami, FL is 6-3.

Phoenix, AZ (February 4, 2022)–TOMORROW NIGHT, DKO Boxing Management’s undefeated featherweight Edward Vazquez takes on Raymond Ford in a 10-round bout for the WBA Continental Featherweight title at the Footprint Arena in Phoenix.

The bout will be streamed live on DAZN (8 PM ET)

Vazquez of Fort Worth, Texas is 11-0 with three knockouts and will be looking to establish himself by taking on former National Amateur champion and undefeated Ford.

Vazquez, who is the former WBC USNBC champion will look to add Ford to a victim list that already includes Everado Jhoao (1-0), Brandon Arvie (2-0), Brandon Cruz (6-0), Adan Ochoa (11-1), Irvin Gonzalez (14-2) and a 1st round stoppage over Ezequiel Alberto Tevez on November 5th in Irving, Texas.

Ford of Camden, NJ is a former National Golden Gloves champion is 10-0-1 with six knockouts, and is coming off an eighth round stoppage over Felix Caraballo on November 27th,

Vazquez is promoted by KO Night Boxing.

Edward Vazquez Press Conference Quotes

“This isn’t my first step up fight, I’ve had three before and I’ve won them all. I am well prepared, a six-week camp, no shortcuts and no corners cut, this is the best I’ve felt and the title is coming home to Texas with me.

“Ray is skillful, and he’s had good wins, I respect what he’s done, but he’s had one step up fight and he got a draw.

“You have to use your brain and outthink your opponent. Being fast and flashy is nice but only gets you so far. It’s the brain that wins fights and I have more of that than him.

“This is everything I have dreamed of and visualized; I feel I have been here before because I have seen it played out in my head. I am comfortable, well prepared and ready.”