Raymond Ford scored a dramatic 12th round stoppage over Otabek Kohlmatov to capture the WBA Featherweight title at The Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

It was a terrific back and forth bout that saw each fighter score throughout the contest. Ford suffered a cut under his right eye. In round 12, behind on the scores, Ford landed a straight left that forced Kohlmatov across the ring. Kohlmatov was left wide open to eat under flushh left hand that forced referee Charlie Fitch to stop the bout at 2:53.

Ford, 125.9 lbs of Camden, NJ is 15-0-1 with eight knockouts. Kohlmatov, 125.8 lbs of Sirdaryo, UZB is 12-1.

Luis Alberto Lopez Stops Abe in 8; Defends IBF Featherweight Title

Luis Alberto Lopez made the third defense of the IBF Featherweight title with an eighth round stoppage over Reiya Abe.

Lopez dominated the action by coming forward and not letting Abe getting rhythm.

In round two, the right eye of Abe began to swell badly to the point where ringside doctors took a look at it.

In round eight, Lopez turned up the energy and landed a big punches in the middle of the ring which forced referee Mark Nelson to stop the bout at 39 seconds.

Lopez, 125.3 lbs of Mexicali, MEX is 30-2 with 17 knockouts. Abe, 125.8 lbs of Yamato, JAP is 25-4-1.

Brian Norman Jr. and Janelson Bocachica battled to a no-contest at the end of round three of their 10-round welterweight bout due to excessive bleeding from Bocachica.

In round one, Norman was cut over his right eye. Later in the round, Bocachica dropped Norman with a perfect right to the head. In round two, Bocachica was cut over his right eye and then a second cut in his hairline. The cuts were due to a headbutt and elbow and was too much for Bocachica and the fight was halted after round three.

Norman, 147.2 lbs of Atlanta is 25-0. Bocachica, 146.6 lbs of Detroit is 17-2-1.

Local favorite Bryce Mills won a six-round unanimous decision over Gerffred Ngaynt in a junior welterweight bout.

Mills, 138.7 lbs of Syracuse, NY won by scores of 60-54 twice and 58-56 and is now 15-1. Ngaynt, 138.7 lbs of Buffalo is 6-2.

Troy Isley remained undefeated with a thudding seventh round stoppage over Marcos Hernandez in an eight-round middleweight bout.

In round seven, Isley landed a big right hand that put Hernandez on the canvas. Hernandez got to his feet, but the fight was stopped at 1:30.

Isley, 159.3 lbs of Washington, DC is 12-0 with five knockouts. Hernandez, 160.6 lbs of Fresno, CA 16-7-2.

Floyd Diaz remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Edwin Diaz in a bantamweight fight.

Diaz, 118 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 and is now 11-0. Rodriguez, 117.8 lbs of Juana Diaz, PR is 12-8-2.

Rohan Polanco remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Tarik Zaina in a junior welterweight bout.

In round seven, Polanco was credited with a knockdown after what looked like a push put Zaina on the canvas. In round eight, Polanco dropped Zaina with a uppercut.

Polanco, 142.7 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR won by scores of 79-71 twice and 78-72 and is now 12-0. Zaina, 142,4 lbs of Tangier, MOR is 13-1-1.

Nico Ali Walsh won a six-round unanimous decision over Charles Stanford in a middleweight bout.

Walsh, 156.9 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 10-1. Stanford, 155.1 lbs of Cincinnati is 7-6.

Brandon Moore remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Helaman Olguin in a heavyweight bout.

Moore, 242 lbs of Lakeland, FL won by sores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 14-0. Olguin, 281.7 lbs of Salt Lake City, UT is 9-7-1.

Atlantic City, NJ (August 2, 2021)–This past Saturday night, Hard Hitting Promotions started off it’s 12 fight series at the Showboat Hotel with a bang as Christian Tapia captured the NABA Super Featherweight title with a 2nd round destruction over Mason Menard.

The fight capped off an excellent seven bout card in front of a sold-out crowd at the famed boardwalk venue.

In round two, Tapia hurt Menard with a right hand. Tapia walked in and landed a right uppercut that was followed by a thundering left to the body that sent Menard to the canvas, and he would not get up, and the fight was stopped at 2:34.

Tapia of Coamo, PR is 12-0 with 11 knockouts. Menard of Rayne, LA is 36-6.

Dylan Price remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Edwin Rodriguez in a bantamweight bout.

Price of Sicklerville, NJ won by scores of 79-73, 78-74 and 77-75 to remain undefeated with a 14-0 record. Rodriguez of Juana Diaz, PR is 11-6-2.

Hometown favorite Anthony “Juice” Young took an eight-round unanimous decision over Todd Manuel in a welterweight battle.

Young scored a knockdown in the final round, but Manuel was able to reach the final bell.

Young of Atlantic City, NJ won by scores of 79-72 and 78-73 twice to raise his mark to 22-2. Manuel of Rayne, LA is 19-18-1,

Ricardo Caraballo (6-1) and Harold Lopez (6-0-1) fought to a no-contest due to a cut that opened up a cut over the left eye of Caraballo, and the fight had to be stopped before four completed rounds of their scheduled six-round flyweight bout.

Jerome Conquest took a six-round split decision over Wilfredo Garriga in a junior welterweight fight.

Conquest of Philadelphia won by scores of 59-55 and 58-56, while a third judge ruled 58-56 in favor of Garriga.

Conquest is now 11-5. Garriga of Juana Diaz, PR is 4-8-1.

Brendon O’Callaghan made a successful pro debut with a opening round stoppage of Anthony Young in a scheduled four-round middleweight bout.

O’Callaghan dropped Young with a hard combination on the ropes. O’Callaghan jumped on a hurt Young, and another series of punches forced a referee stoppage at 2:39.

O’Callaghan of Philadelphia is 1-0 with one knockout. Young, also of Philadelphia, drops to 0-2.

Isaiah Wise won a six-round split decision over Luis Solis in a middleweight bout.

Wise of Philadelphia won by scores of 59-55 and 58-56; while the 3rd judge scored it for Solis by a 59-55 tally.

Wise is now 9-2-2. Solis is 25-13-4.

Hard Hitting Promotions returns to the Showboat Hotel on Saturday, August 28th

Terence Crawford may have solidified himself as the best fighter in the world as he stopped Kell Brook in round four to retain his WBO Welterweight title at the MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas.

Brook started off very well as he was very adept with his jab and started landing solid rights. Brook at the very least took two if not all three of the opening rounds.

That was short lived, as in round four, Crawford hurt Brook badly with a short right hook that staggered him to the ropes that was ruled a knockdown by referee Tony Weeks. Crawford, who may be the best finisher in the sport, saw blood and pounced on Brook and landed a vicious combination that forced the stoppage at 1:14.

Crawford, 146.4 lbs of Omaha, Nebraska, is 37-0 with 28 knockouts. Brook, 147 lbs of Sheffield, England is 39-3.

“I already said who I want {next}. I want Pacquiao. I want to revisit that fight,” Crawford said. “That was a fight that should’ve happened right now. But being that the pandemic happened, and they weren’t going to allow fans in the Middle East, they had to put a hold to that. Everything was 95 percent done. We had the venue. The money was almost there. It wasn’t quite there. That was the only thing we were waiting on.

“Kell is a tremendous talent. He came and he tried to take my title. He was in shape. He made the weight. There were no excuses to be put on the table. He came off of three wins.”

Added Brook, “Never in my career, nobody has ever done that to me in sparring or anything.

“It was one of them… I got caught with a shot I didn’t see. I’m gutted because nobody could’ve gotten me in better condition. I was bang on the limit. Maybe I could’ve been a bit more relaxed and loose and let the shots go.”

Top Rank chairman Bob Arum said, “Terence Crawford showed, once again, why he is the best welterweight in the world. It was a dominating performance over a very good fighter in Kell Brook. Terence ranks up there with all the great welterweights I’ve promoted.”

Moloney and Franco Fight to No-Decision after Franco injures eye

In a rematch for the WBA Super Flyweight title, Andrew Moloney and reigning champion battled to a no-contest as an injury to the eye of Franco forced the fight to be stopped before the 3rd round.

In round one, Franco had swelling over his right eye from an accidental headbutt. The doctor looked at the rapidly swelling eye before round’s two and three, and Franco was deemed unfit to continue. Replays showed that the swelling was caused by a jab in the 1st round by Moloney..

The commission looked at the replay for over 25 minutes and settled on a no-contest.

Moloney said, “They took this away from me. The injury was caused by a punch. I can’t believe this.
 
“I was in control of the fight and on my way to a clear victory. I deserved this win. I landed 50 punches on that eye. It was not even close.”
 
Added Arum, “This is an absolute disgrace. There was no headbutt.  Andrew Moloney should be the new champion.”

Joshua Greer Jr. and Edwin Rodriguez battled to a majority draw in a eight-round bantamweight fight.

In round two, Greer began to bleed from his nose.

Rodriguez took a card 77-75 and two cards read even at 76-76.

Rodriguez landed 124 of 470 punches; Greer was 131 of 526.

Greer, 118.9 lbs of Chicago, IL is 22-2-2. Rodriguez, 118.9 lbs of Ponce, PR is 11-5-2.

Tyler Howard remained undefeated by winning an eight-round unanimous decision over KeAndrae Leatherwood.

In round two, Howard was cut over the left eye.

In round six, Leatherwood was deducted a point for holding. In round eight, Howard dropped Leatherwood with a body shot.

Howard landed 81 of 329 punches; Leatherwood was 74 of 244.

Howard, 161.2 lbs of Crossville, TN won by scores of 77-74, 76-74 and 77-73 and is now 19-0. Leatherwood, 161.9 lbs of Tuscaloosa, AL is 22-8-1.

Duke Ragan stayed undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Sebastian Gutierrez in a featherweight fight.

In round two, Ragan sent Gutierrez to the canvas with a nicely-timed right hand.

Ragan, 126 lbs of Cincinnati, OH won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 3-0. Gutierrez, 126.3 lbs of Oxnard, CA is 1-1.

Vegas Larfield stopped Jose Alberto Flores in a scheduled four round bantamweight bout featuring undefeated fighters.

It was a back and forth brawl for the opening two rounds. In round three, Larfield dropped Flores with a hard left hook. It was another right that sent Flores down for a 2nd time. Larfield finished off Flores with a big eight-punch combination and the fight was stopped at 1:07.

Larfield, 119 lbs of Brisbane, AUS is now 2-0 with two knockouts. Flores, 117.3 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 2-1-1.

Raymond Muratalla stopped Luis Porozo in round three of their scheduled six-round lightweight bout.

In round three, Muratalla sent Porozo down from a body shot. Muratalla ended it moments later when he landed a crushing right that sent Porozo down in the corner and he fight was stopped at 2:40.

Muratalla, 137.3 lbs of Fontana, CA is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Porozo, 135.2 lbs of Santo Domingo, ECU is 15-5.

ORANGE, Calif. (Aug. 22, 2019) – Unbeaten bantamweight prospect Saul Sanchez (12-0, 7 KOs) weighed in at 117.8 lbs. at Thursday’s weigh in, while challenger Edwin Rodriguez (10-5-1, 5 KOs) weighed 118.1 lbs.

The pair square off in the “New Blood” main event this Friday, Aug. 23, from Omega Products International in Corona, Calif.

The 10-round showcase fight can be streamed live on TB Presents: New Blood starting at 8:00 p.m. / 11:00 p.m. ET on Thompson Boxing’s Facebook page, YouTube channel: Thompson Boxing TV and online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

Sanchez, 22, of No. Hollywood, Calif., makes his 10-round debut on Friday night.

“There’s a lot to be excited about,” said Sanchez, who is trained by Joel Diaz. “I just have to stay focused and be ready for anything.”

WEIGHTS

Saul Sanchez, 117.8 lbs. vs. Edwin Rodriguez, 118.1 lbs. (10-rounds)
Luis Lopez, 145.8 lbs. vs. Demarcus Layton, 145.7 lbs. (8-rounds)
Oscar Torrez, 212.4 lbs. vs. Miguel Cubos, 229.9 lbs. (6-rounds)
Gabriel Hernandez, 231.3 lbs. vs. Daniel Najera, 220.4 lbs. (6-rounds)
Sebastian Salinas, 131.6 lbs. vs. Michael Gaxiola, 132 lbs. (4-rounds)

Remaining tickets priced at $40, $60 & $100 are available for purchase on the day of the event from the venue starting at 5:30 p.m. local time. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the first bout starting at approximately 7:45 p.m.

All fights will stream live on TB Presents: New Blood via our Facebook page, YouTube channel and ThompsonBoxing.com. Beto Duran will handle blow-by-blow duties, while Hall of Fame broadcaster Rich Marotta provides expert, color commentary.

The livestream starts at 8:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. ET.

Omega Products International is located at 1681 California Ave. Corona, CA 92881 and can be reached at 951-737-7447.

“New Blood” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Everlast.

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.

ORANGE, Calif. (Aug. 20, 2019) – Unbeaten bantamweight prospect Saul Sanchez (12-0, 7 KOs) makes his main event debut against Edwin Rodriguez (10-5-1, 5 KOs) this Friday, Aug. 23, from Omega Products International in Corona, Calif.

The 10-round showcase fight can be streamed live on TB Presents: New Blood starting at 8:00 p.m. / 11:00 p.m. ET on Thompson Boxing’s Facebook page, YouTube channel: Thompson Boxing TV and online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

Sanchez, 22, is riding high after his eighth round stoppage of Brandon Benitez in May that earned him the WBO Latino title. The fight was the opening bout of a ShoBox: The New Generation triple header and Sanchez’s first on national television.

The No. Hollywood, Calif. native, who is trained by Joel Diaz and managed by Steve Martini, appears poised for his first main event attraction.

“This is what all boxers work toward when they’re first starting out,” said Sanchez, who turned professional in early 2016. “It’s a challenging fight in a lot of ways. I’m in the main event and fighting ten rounds for the first time. This is all very knew to me, but exciting as well.”

The soft-spoken and painfully shy Sanchez will be fighting from Omega Products for the fifth time in his young career. The outdoor venue, which recently hosted the previously mentioned Showtime broadcast in May, has showcased world champions such as Timothy Bradley, and more recently, Danny Roman, before they hit stardom.

“I think it’s great that I’m fighting in the same place as such great champions,” Sanchez said. “I put in a lot of work for this camp to make sure I win convincingly. I know Rodriguez is looking to pull the upset, but it’s not going to happen.”

Remaining tickets priced at $40, $60 & $100 are available for purchase on the day of the event from the venue starting at 5:30 p.m. local time. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the first bout starting at approximately 7:45 p.m.

In the 8-round “New Blood” co-feature, Bobirzhan Mominov (10-0, 8 KOs) of Los Angeles puts his unbeaten mark to the test against Puerto Rico’s Javier Flores (14-2, 12 KOs).

In other action, heavyweight prospect Oscar Torrez (6-0, 3 KOs) of Rialto, Calif. battles an opponent to be named later (6-rounds).

Welterweight Luis Lopez (7-0, 3 KOs) takes on Demarcus Layton (7-1, 4 KOs) of Little Rock, Ark. in a fight set for 6-rounds.

Junior lightweight Sebastian Salinas (1-0, 1 KO) of Indio, Calif. fights an opponent to be named later (4-rounds).

All fights will stream live on TB Presents: New Blood via our Facebook page, YouTube channel and ThompsonBoxing.com. Beto Duran will handle blow-by-blow duties, while Doug Fischer provides expert, color commentary.

The livestream starts at 8:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. ET.

Omega Products International is located at 1681 California Ave. Corona, CA 92881 and can be reached at 951-737-7447.

“New Blood” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Everlast.

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.

BROOKLYN, NY — In the main event of a Showtime Championship Boxing card in front of 7,329 paid fans at the Barclays Center, WBA world junior middleweight champion Brian “El Boxi” Castaño (15-0-1, 11KO) fought former world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara (25-3-3, 14KO) to a twelve round split draw and retained his title in the process.

It was an impressive American debut for the undefeated 29 year-old Argentine, who brought the pressure to his Lara all night long. Early on, it was Lara’s fight though, as the slick Cuban southpaw peppered in his shots with effectiveness, and moved well laterally, avoiding many of his counterpart’s punches. As the fight progressed, however, especially during the middle rounds, Castaño’s never ending pressure began to overwhelm and smother Lara, who would shell up for ten to fifteen seconds at a time without returned any fire.

Both fighter’s dug in down the stretch, with Castaño still drudging forward, while Lara still found success pot-shotting with that coiled left hand.

At the end of twelve, judge John McKaie scored it 115-113 Lara, Kevin Morgan 115-113 Castaño, and Julie Lederman 114-114, even.

The fight marked Lara’s first bout since his dramatic 2018 Fight of the Year split decision loss to Jarrett Hurd, a fight in which Hurd dropped Lara in the 12th to tip the scorecards in his favor.

For Castaño, who amassed an impressive 181-10 amateur record which included a 2011 win over current welterweight champion Errol Spence, Jr., tonight marked his first defense of his WBA title since winning it via TKO against veteran French fighter Cedric Vitu (47-3, 19KO) in March 2018.

“It was a great fight, but I saw myself winning eight rounds tonight. My punches were much more effective,” Lara said. “He did have pressure but I was dominating the pressure. I was definitely expecting that pressure because he waited a long time for this fight.”

He added, “If we have to fight him again I’ll fight him. Hurd or Castano. Anybody, I’ll have the rematch with both.”

Castaño addressed the media afterwards, as well, saying, “It was a good fight. A clash of styles. I know I won the fight. I feel I was robbed. If he wants the rematch, I’ll give him the rematch.”

Luis “King Kong” Ortiz Decisions Christian Hammer

Luis “King Kong” Ortiz (31-1, 26KO) easily outpointed durable veteran Christian Hammer (24-6, 14KO) in a ten round heavyweight bout, making it three wins in a row for the Cuban southpaw since suffering his lone career defeat — a TKO loss to WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder in March 2018.

It was a relatively easy night at the office for Ortiz, who at 238¾ lbs was fighting at his lightest weight since 2015. Ortiz used his jab early to to control the range, peppering in that thundering left hand to keep Hammer honest. Hammer, who was making his US debut, was willing to shell up and let Ortiz fire a few shots before trying to come back and connect with a game changing right.

Early in the second round, it looked like Hammer might have hurt Ortiz, as the big Cuban lost his balance, and dipped low, his glove possibly grazing the canvas. Referee Shada Murdough didn’t rule a knockdown, however, and Ortiz quickly regained composure.

In the fourth round an Ortiz left drew blood from the 31 year-old Hammer’s nose, which seemed to bother him for the remainder of the round as he continually wiped the blood away with the back of his glove. The very next round, Hammer returned the favor, and sent a straight right to the face of Ortiz which immediately produced blood from “King Kong’s” nose.

From the fifth till the final bell, the debatable 39 year-old Ortiz put it in cruise control, banging away at Hammer, who has also come up short against notables Tyson Fury and Alexander Povetkin, without any repercussions.

At the end of the contest, judges Waleska Roldan and John Basile scored it 99-91 and Joseph Pasquale 100-90 all for Ortiz.

“The fight wasn’t what I was expecting. It was a hard fight and my corner really had to work with me,” Ortiz said. “It was a hard fight. After I got the rhythm, I heated up a little bit.”

“I fought a fight that I hadn’t for years, which is box and work,” he continued. “So I’m not disappointed I didn’t knock him out. I showed some of my boxing skills tonight.”

Hammer also spoke after the fight. “Ortiz is a very good and experienced fighter. He’s technical and smart but he’s not as intimidating as people say he is,” he said. “I respect Ortiz but I don’t think he’s the best fighter I’ve ever faced.”

Hammer also chalked up his defeat as a moral victory, adding, “I’m very confident going forward. I know that I can go the distance with anyone and I’m willing to fight anyone. People thought I’d get knocked out but I proved them wrong.”

Ramirez Stops De Gracia In Dramatic Fashion

With one perfectly thrown right uppercut, Mexican featherweight Eduardo Ramirez (22-1-3, 9KO) offset Bryan De Gracia’s (24-2-1, 20KO) equilibrium, zapped his legs of their strength, and moments later, ended their fight in dramatic fashion en route to a TKO9 victory, claiming the WBA’s “Gold” featherweight world title in the process.

It was a back and forth affair, a clash of styles, with the Panamanian assuming the role of aggressor, while Ramirez content to olé his foe and slip in counters. The fight began to heat up as it bore on, with exchanges occurring with more frequency. Toward the end of the fifth, the two let their hands fly with fury, both eating and landing leather. It was De Gracia, however, getting the better of his opponent that round, and capped that exchange with a huge right that landed flush just seconds before the bell.

The seesaw contest continued until the 9th when seemingly out of nowhere, Ramirez landed a fantastically timed right uppercut, thrown under De Gracia’s outstretched jab, that exploded on the Panamanian’s chin and sent him into disarray. Clearly hurt, De Gracia stumbled around the ring trying to regain his balance, but was unable to do so. Ramirez stayed right with De Gracia, unloading the tank, and finally, after one more big right hand that sent De Gracia stumbling back toward the ropes, referee Benjy Esteves stopped the contest at the 2:10 mark of round 9.

Two judges had De Gracia up 77-75 at the stoppage, while the third had it a draw, 76-76. 15rounds.com had Ramirez up 77-75 at the time of the stoppage.

Tonight marked the first time De Gracia fought outside his native Panama. Conversely, for Ramirez, this was the second time he fought on American soil. The Mexican drew with undefeated Cuban southpaw, Leduan Barthelemy in September 2017.

Ramirez’s only career defeat remains his decision loss to Welshman Lee Selby in their 2017 world title fight.

“I‘d like to dedicate this fight to my deceased grandfather,” Ramirez said afterward. “This win is in memory of him.”

He continued, “I definitely knew it was close but my corner kept telling me to keep going and going, and that’s when I caught him.

Edwin Rodriguez Grinds Out UD Over Mitch Williams

Former super middleweight title challenger turned borderline heavyweight, Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (31-2, 20KO) outslugged fellow cruiserweight Mitch “King Kamm” Williams (16-7-3,11KO) en route to a ten round unanimous decision.

The Dominican-American Rodriguez, who tipped the scales just shy of the cruiserweight limit at 198.2 lbs., looked less than impressive, but showed a ton of heart as he stood toe-to-toe, exchanging blow-for-blow with his 36 year-old counterpart. Rodriguez, who now fights out of Stafford, TX, hurt Michigan’s Williams with body shots a few times during the contest, but was unable to deliver definitive blows and stop the rugged southpaw — something a better conditioned Rodriguez may have very well been able to do.

“La Bomba” has now won three in a row since being viciously KO’d by Thomas Williams Jr. in late 2016. His only other professional came courtesy of Andre Ward in their 2013 title fight.

Antonio Russell Brutalizes Cardenas, Stops Him In 6

In the second of three fights broadcast on the Showtime Sports YouTube channel, undefeated bantamweight Antonio Russell (13-0, 11KO) punished seventeen-fight Mexican veteran, Jose Maria Cardenas (16-4, 13KO) en route to a TKO6.

It was a rough and tumble affair, originally slated for 8, that was particularly brutal at times. Towards the end of the first round, Russell uncorked a barrage of hammering rights to the side of Cardenas’ head that eventually crumbled Cardenas to the canvas.

In the ensuing rounds, the Washington DC native, Russell, continued to have his way with the too-tough-for-his-own-good Mexican, who time and again found himself with his back against the ropes, eating Russell punches while attempting to clinch.

Eventually, at the :22 mark of the 6th round, after being tagged with another flurry of Russell blows, the ringside physician jumped onto the ring apron and advised the referee to stop the contest.

Russell, who fights out of the Russell family-owned Enigma Boxing Gym in Capitol heights, MD, had his older brother, WBC world featherweight champion, Gary Russell, Jr. operating as his chief second during the match.

In the second of three fights broadcast on the Showtime Sports YouTube channel, undefeated bantamweight Antonio Russell (13-0, 11KO) punished seventeen-fight Mexican veteran, Jose Maria Cardenas (16-4, 13KO) en route to a TKO6.

It was a rough and tumble affair, originally slated for 8, that was particularly brutal at times. Towards the end of the first round, Russell uncorked a barrage of hammering rights to the side of Cardenas’ head that eventually crumbled Cardenas to the canvas.

In the ensuing rounds, the Washington DC native, Russell, continued to have his way with the too-tough-for-his-own-good Mexican, who time and again found himself with his back against the ropes, eating Russell punches while attempting to clinch.

Eventually, at the :22 mark of the 6th round, after being tagged with another flurry of Russell blows, the ringside physician jumped onto the ring apron and advised the referee to stop the contest.

Russell, who fights out of the Russell family-owned Enigma Boxing Gym in Capitol heights, MD, had his older brother, WBC world featherweight champion, Gary Russell, Jr. operating as his chief second during the match.

Barthelemy Cruises To UD In First Fight Since 2017

Undefeated Cuban super featherweight Leduan Barthelemy (14-0-1, 7KO) returned to the ring for the first time since drawing against Eduardo Ramirez in 2017 and waltzed to a wide 8 round unanimous decision against Mexico’s Miguel Angel Aispuro (11-7-2, 7KO). The southpaw Barthelemy, who is the younger brother of former two-division world champion, Rances Barthelemy, had everything working well tonight. He was patient and precise, scoring with jabs, straight lefts, and counter rights. He mostly forewent any combination punching, however, and because of that was unable to stop Aispuro inside the distance. Nonetheless, Barthelemy notched another “W”, earning scores of 80-72×2 and 79-73 from the judges.

Hitchins Makes Easy Work of Game Morales

Undefeated Mayweather Promotions prospect and Brooklyn native, Richardson Hitchins ran his record up to a perfect 8-0, 4KO with a 4th round TKO stoppage against hard-nosed veteran David Morales (13-10, 13KO). The former 2016 Haitian Olympian wasted no time introducing himself to his Nicaraguan counterpart, immediately going on the offensive, unloading from the opening bell, forcing Morales to fight going backward. After two-plus rounds of battering Morales from post to post and rope to rope, Hitchins finally finished off his foe with a flurry of punches that brought Morales to a knee. Although he beat the ensuing ten count, he was unable to answer the bell for round 4.

Undefeated Mayweather Promotions prospect and Brooklyn native, Richardson Hitchins ran his record up to a perfect 8-0, 4KO with a 4th round TKO stoppage against hard-nosed veteran David Morales (13-10, 13KO). The former 2016 Haitian Olympian wasted no time introducing himself to his Nicaraguan counterpart, immediately going on the offensive, unloading from the opening bell, forcing Morales to fight going backward. After two-plus rounds of battering Morales from post to post and rope to rope, Hitchins finally finished off his foe with a flurry of punches that brought Morales to a knee. Although he beat the ensuing ten count, he was unable to answer the bell for round 4.

Maryland’s Irby Stays Unbeaten, Scores UD Over Okoth

Landover, Maryland’s Tyrek Irby (7-0, KO) made it two-for-two for “Free State” southpaws, grinding out a six round unanimous decision over fellow welterweight Dennis Okoth (2-2-1, 1KO) of Kenya. After scoring a knockdown early in the first, Irby then went on the defensive, counterpunching his way past the aggressive Kenyan. It wasn’t easy or pretty — especially after a clash of heads in round 6 opened a nasty gash above Irby’s right eye — but Irby was able to navigate his way to the win. Ring announcer Miguel Flores failed to announce the actual judge’s scores, but no reason to doubt the decision.

Baltimore’s Anderson Opens Card With Easy Win

In the first of nine fights slated from the Barclays Center, undefeated Maryland southpaw Aaron Anderson (4-0, 3KO) shutout (40-36×3) fellow middleweight Chukka Willis (4-10, 2KO) in a four rounder. The night’s boxing will commence with a Showtime Championship Boxing tripleheader (9pm ET), anchored by undefeated WBA junior middleweight champion Brian Castaño (15-0, 11KO) against former Cuban titleist, Erislandy Lara (25-3-2, 14KO). The broadcast will also feature a ten round heavyweight scrap between former heavyweight title challengers Luis Ortiz (30-1, 26KO) and Christian Hammer (24-5, 14KO) and a twelve round featherweight fight featuring Panama’s Bryan De Gracia (24-1-1, 20KO) and Mexico’s Eduardo Ramirez (21-1-3, 8KO).

BROOKLYN (February 27, 2019) – SHOWTIME Sports will provide live streaming coverage of three undercard fights on the network’s social media platforms as part of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, March 2 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Streaming action will see hard-hitting contender Edwin Rodriguez battle Mitch Williams in a 10-round cruiserweight fight, unbeaten prospect Antonio Russell square off against Mexico’s Jose Maria Cardenas in an eight-round bantamweight showdown and Leduan Barthelemy step in for an eight-round super featherweight matchup with Mexico’s Miguel Angel Aispuro,

The social media presentation will stream on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page leading up to the evening’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING event. The three-fight SHOWTIME telecast begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by former world champion Erislandy Lara challenging undefeated WBA Super Welterweight Champion Brian Castaño.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Rodriguez (30-2, 20 KOs) has demonstrated his power-punching ability throughout numerous memorable contests in his career. The 33-year-old was born in Moca, Dominican Republic before moving to Worcester, Massachusetts. In his last fight he scored a unanimous decision over Lionell Thompson last February. He will battle Jackson, Michigan’s Williams (16-6-3, 11 KOs) who most recently scored a stoppage victory over Michael Sunkett in December.

Antonio Russell (12-0, 10 KOs) sits between Antuanne and WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Russell in the lineage of the Russell family dynasty, and will look to remain unbeaten when he steps into the ring March 2. The 26-year-old scored two knockout victories in 2018 and has stopped his last five opponents from lasting the distance. He will be opposed by the 22-year-old Cardenas (16-3, 13 KOs) from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico.

The younger brother of two-division champion Rances and Olympic gold medalist Yan, Barthelemy (13-0-1, 7 KOs) most recently fought to a split draw against then-unbeaten Eduardo Ramirez in September 2017. The 29-year-old from Cuba now lives and trains in Las Vegas and adds another top Cuban fighter to a card already including Lara and heavyweight contender Luis Ortiz. He prepares to take on the 28-year-old Aispuro (11-6-2, 7 KOs), who enters this contest with a three-fight winning streak.

Non-televised action will feature 2016 Haitian Olympian and Brooklyn-native Richardson Hitchins (7-0, 3 KOs) taking on Nicaragua’s David Morales (13-9, 13 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight showdown, undefeated super lightweight Tyrek Irby (6-0, 2 KOs) facing Kenya’s Dennis Okoth (2-1-1) for six rounds of action and unbeaten Aaron Anderson (3-0, 3 KOs)in a four-round middleweight fight against Atlanta’s Chukka Willis (4-9, 2 KOs).

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ABOUT LARA VS. CASTAÑO
Erislandy Lara vs. Brian Castaño pits former super welterweight world champion Lara against the WBA Super Welterweight Champion Castaño on Saturday, March 2 in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

SHOWTIME coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see Cuban heavyweight contender Luis Ortiz take on Christian Hammer in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, plus hard-hitting Bryan De Graciabattling rugged veteran Eduardo Ramirez in a 12-round featherweight clash that opens the telecast.

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

CARSON, CALIF. (February 14, 2019) – Veteran contender and two-time title challenger Andrzej Fonfara has withdrawn from his match against Edwin Rodriguez that was scheduled to be part of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes on Saturday, March 9 from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California.

Stepping in as the replacement co-feature is a 10-round, all-action welterweight showdown between hard-hitting Abel Ramos and battle-tested Francisco “Chia” Santana. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by WBC Welterweight World Champion Shawn Porter making his first title defense in primetime against mandatory challenger Yordenis Ugas.

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

The 31-year-old Fonfara announced that he is retiring from boxing, prompting him to withdraw from the fight against Rodriguez on Wednesday.

“There is no more enthusiasm and above all no more of the motivation and adrenaline that gave me the desire to go into the ring and compete,” Fonfara said. “I am healthy. Everything is okay. But I no longer have the heart for boxing.”

Ramos (23-3-2, 18 KOs) has put together four technical knockout victories since losing a hard-fought majority decision to welterweight contender Jamal James in front of James’ hometown crowd in Minneapolis on April 13, 2018. The 27-year-old from Casa Grande, Arizona proved against James that he’s a formidable opponent for anyone in the 147-pound division.

Santana (25-6-1, 12 KOs) needs an impressive victory over Ramos to remain a force in the welterweight division. The 31-year-old Santana of Santa Barbara, California is coming off a majority decision over the always-tough Felix Diaz and owns victories over then unbeaten fighters Eddie Gomez and Kendal Mena.

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Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

CARSON, Calif. (January 24, 2019) – WBC Welterweight World Champion Shawn Porter will make his first title defense in primetime as he battles mandatory challenger Yordenis Ugas Saturday, March 9 in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes live from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see Porter defend his title after defeating Danny Garcia in an exciting September clash to capture the WBC belt. He will face Cuba’s Ugas, who has worked his way to this position with an impressive string of eight-straight victories leading up to March 9.

The action also features a duel between two hard-hitting brawlers as Andrzej Fonfara and Edwin Rodriguez meet in a 10-round cruiserweight match in the co-feature, while heavy-handed slugger Efe Ajagba steps up to face experienced veteran Amir Mansour in an eight-round heavyweight attraction in the televised opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale Monday, January 28 at 12 p.m. PT. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com

“Shawn Porter is one of the most charismatic and exciting fighters in the sport and he’s sure to light up the screen on March 9 on FOX and FOX Deportes,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “After winning a hard-fought close decision over Danny Garcia in September to capture the title, he will again have his hands full, this time with Cuba’s Yordenis Ugas, who has taken the division by storm, defeating top contenders and prospects to put himself in this mandatory position for his first world title. It’s a matchup of styles that is sure to generate a memorable night.

“In addition, Andrzej Fonfara and Edwin Rodriguez are heavy-hitters known for being in electric matchups and I expect both to leave it all on the line in this showdown to see who moves back closer to the championship ranks. With sensational prospect Efe Ajagba rising up the heavyweight division, he will look to secure another knockout on this March 9 card that is set to deliver from top to bottom.”

Porter will defend his title just over a month after Keith Thurman and Manny Pacquiao defend their 147-pound championships in separate clashes, and one week before Errol Spence Jr. puts his welterweight belt on the line against Mikey Garcia on FOX Sports PBC PPV, as we near finding out who will rise to the top of boxing’s deepest and most-exciting division.

The 31-year-old Porter earned the Garcia fight with a dominant stoppage of former world champion Andre Berto, which he followed up by defeating tough contender Adrian Granados. This followed Porter’s memorable title clash against Keith Thurman in 2016, which drew Fight of the Year praise and was narrowly won by Thurman.

Originally from Akron, Ohio but now living and training in Las Vegas, Porter became a welterweight champion for the first time in 2014 when he defeated Devon Alexander. Although he lost the belt to Kell Brook, Porter rebounded two fights later with a high-profile win against four-division champion Adrien Broner.

“We’ve already been in training camp for a few weeks working on conditioning and building up the fundamentals,” said Porter. “Ugas is a strong, aggressive fighter who’s responsible with his defense. He’s a Cuban fighter and I know he won’t waiver from that. It’s going to be up to me to get him to drop his hands, take some risks and then land my shots. It should make for a very entertaining fight and I can’t wait to get back in the ring and do what I do best.”

March 9 concludes a long road traveled by Ugas (23-3,11 KOs) from Cuban amateur star, to nearly out of the sport, and now on the cusp of a world championship. The 32-year-old won Bronze at the 2008 Olympic games and was 15-1 as a pro before suffering back-to-back losses in 2014. A 28-month layoff followed, with Ugas eventually deciding to return to the ring for a battle against then unbeaten prospect Jamal James.

Ugas not only defeated James in August 2016, but he followed up the win by stopping another unbeaten prospect in Bryant Perrella just over a month later. Now living in Miami and training in Las Vegas, Ugas triumphed in title eliminators against Ray Robinson last February and Cesar Barrionuevo in September on the undercard of the Garcia vs. Porter fight.

“This is a huge opportunity to make my dreams come true of becoming a world champion on FOX,” said Ugas. “Shawn Porter is a great champion and someone I respect. On March 9 when the bell rings, I’m willing to leave it all on the line, so the fans shouldn’t miss this one. It will be a ‘Fight of the Year’ contender. I can guarantee that and you will hear the words ‘and the new!”’

Fonfara (30-5, 18 KOs) established himself as a rugged contender in the light heavyweight division with some solid victories, including his most notable triumph over Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. He fought Adonis Stevenson twice for the light heavyweight world championship, losing the first time by decision in 2014 and losing by TKO in 2017. In his last fight on Feb. 17, the 31-year-old Fonfara of Radom, Poland, who now lives in Chicago, scored a TKO victory over Ismayl Sillah.

“I’m excited because I’ve trained a long time to get a fight and now we have a date and a great opponent,” said Fonfara. “I know Rodriguez is a strong fighter. He moved up to the cruiserweight division like me, so I think this is a 50-50 fight. It’s a good fight because me and him are tough fighters. We like to go to war. I know Edwin from Houston because I trained there a couple of times. He and I are good friends with Artur Szpilka. There’s no animosity and once we fight and I beat him, we can go out have a beer and talk.”

Rodriguez (30-2, 20 KOs) has demonstrated the ability to end a fight with a single punch, which adds intrigue every time he steps into the ring. The 33-year-old Rodriguez was born in Moca, Dominican Republic before moving to Worcester, Massachusetts. In his last fight he scored a unanimous decision over Lionell Thompson on Feb. 17, 2018.

“I feel great and I feel confident heading into this fight,” said Rodriguez. “Fonfara is a great fighter and so am I. It’s going to be very entertaining for the fans. I bring it and he brings it. I’ll adapt as the fight goes on and I’ll be ready for the best Fonfara.”

Nigeria’s Ajagba (8-0, 7 KOs) gained notoriety last August 24 at the Armory and on FS1 when his opponent, Curtis Harper, walked out of the ring after touching gloves to start the first round. The 24-year-old won the fight without throwing a punch as Harper was disqualified. In his last fight Ajagba, who lives in Stafford, Texas and trains with Ronnie Shields, knocked out Santino Turnbow on December 22.

Mansour (23-3-1, 16 KOs) is a tough veteran who has battled some of the top contenders in the sport, including Dominic Breazeale, Gerald Washington and former cruiserweight world champion Steve Cunningham. The 46-year-old southpaw from Wilmington, Delaware is looking to rebound from a loss to unbeaten Filip Hrgovic in his last fight on September 8.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

MIAMI – (October 30, 2017) – Unbeaten contender Ahmed Elbiali will take on former world champion Jean Pascal in the 10-round light heavyweight main event of a special Friday night edition of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes, December 8 from Hialeah Park in Miami, Florida.

Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former two-time world champion Chad Dawson against hard-hitting contender Edwin Rodriguez in a 10-round bout plus a showdown between unbeaten prospects Austin Dulay (11-0, 8 KOs) and Raynell Williams (12-0, 6 KOs) in eight rounds of lightweight action.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing, begin at $30 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at www.TicketForce.com or calling (877) 840-0457, and are also available at the casino cage.

“The historic Hialeah Park Racetrack & Casino is a beautiful venue for an old-school crossroads fights like Ahmed Elbiali vs. Jean Pascal and Chad Dawson vs. Edwin Rodriguez,” said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. “In the main event, the world will be watching to see if the young contender Elbiali will have his day or if the older champion Jean Pascal still has what it takes. With Dawson vs. Rodriguez, it is ‘do or die’ time for both these guys. The winner of this fight will go on to another big opportunity. The loser will have some thinking to do. It’s going to be an outstanding night of fights from top to bottom, at one of the nicest venues for boxing in North America.”

The 27-year-old Elbiali (16-0, 13 KOs) is a powerful 175-pound contender looking to prove he stacks up with the other big punchers in the division. Born in Cairo, Egypt and now living in Miami, he will be fighting before a hometown crowd in a major step up bout against the former 175-pound champion Pascal. Elbiali is coming off a TKO victory against Christopher Brooker in his last fight on July 18 after previously stopping Jackson Junior in March.

“I’m so thankful to everyone who helped me get here and believe in my skills enough to give this opportunity,” said Elbiali. “This is my golden ticket. I’m excited, ready and blessed for this opportunity. Come December 8, it will be fireworks in Miami!”

Pascal (31-5-1, 18 KOs) was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti but now lives in Laval, Quebec, Canada, and won the light heavyweight title with a decision victory over Adrian Diaconu. He went on to make three defenses, including a victory over Chad Dawson, before losing the title to Bernard Hopkins in 2011. The 34-year-old is looking to bounce back from losing a majority decision to Eleider Alvarez in his last fight on June 3.

“This is not only a comeback fight, but I’m ready to battle for my career on December 8,” said Pascal. “They’re trying to give this young guy a test against a former champion and he’s going to try to use me as a ladder to the next level in this sport. I have a dangerous opponent and I’m going to be ready for him. When I fought Bernard Hopkins I was the young lion, now it’s the other way around and I’m going to be ready to show him something he’s never seen before.”

The 35-year-old Dawson (34-5, 19 KOs) is a two-time light heavyweight champion who has been in the ring against some of the best boxers in the division throughout this era. He won the light heavyweight world championship with a unanimous decision victory over Tomasz Adamek in 2007 and lost the title via a technical decision to Jean Pascal in 2010. He regained the belt with a majority decision victory over Bernard Hopkins in 2012 before losing to Andre Ward later that year. Fighting out of New Haven, Connecticut, Dawson is coming off a technical knockout loss to Andrzej Fonfara in his last fight on March 4.

“I know Edwin Rodriguez very well from sparring together in the past,” said Dawson. “We’re both in a position where we really need this win, and that’s going to make this an exciting fight. I’m motivated to do it one more time, and this time, I’m doing it right. I know that he’s strong and aggressive, but I’ve been in fights like this. I’m prepared for that type of intensity level, and I’m ready to go out and enjoy myself. I think my boxing will be the difference in the fight, and that will get me back to where I’ve been in the past.”

Rodriguez (29-2, 20 KOs) has the kind one-punch knockout power that makes him a dangerous opponent against anyone in the division. Rodriguez was born in Moca, Dominican Republic and now lives in Worchester, Mass. while training out of Houston. The 32-year-old lost a unanimous decision to Andre Ward in his biggest bout to date and he most recently scored a technical knockout victory over Melvin Russell on July 18.

“Chad Dawson is a former champion and a great fighter who at one point was looked at as close to being one of the best fighters, pound-for-pound,” said Rodriguez. “He’s had had his share of losses, but he was beating Fonfara in his last fight before being caught and knocked out. It was very important for me to come back and win my last fight by knockout, but an impressive win over a guy of Chad’s caliber will revitalize my career. This is going to be a great fight and I believe I can win by knockout or decision.”

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Fans can live stream the fights on FOX Sports GO, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Andre Berto avenged his first professional loss as he stopped Victor Ortiz in round four of their scheduled 12-round Welterweight bout.

In round one, a clash of heads caused a cut on the hairline of Ortiz,  In  round two, Ortiz dropped Berto with a straight left.  In round four, Berto dropped Ortiz with a straight right hand.  Ortiz was in trouble and took punishment on the ropes and a hard uppercut put Ortiz on the canvas for a second time.  Ortiz was if he wanted to continue by referee Jack Reiss but Ortiz didn’t answer and the fight was stopped at 1:14 of round 4

Berto of Winter Haven, CA is 31-4 with 24 knockouts.  Ortiz of Ventura, CA is 31-6-2.

Thomas Williams Jr. scored the biggest win of his career when he scored a stunning 2nd round stoppage over Edwin Rodriguez in a scheduled 10-round Light Heavyweight bout.

It was a firefight from the word go, as both guys landed huge bombs that had each other rocked and hurt on several occasions.  Just before the end of the 2nd frame, Williams nailed Rodriguez with a booming right hook that sent Rodriguez to the canvas.  Rodriguez got to his feet, but was wobbly and referee Wayne Hedgepeth stopped the bout at 2:59 of round two.

Williams, 177 lbs of Laurel, MD is now 20-1 with 14 knockouts.  Rodriguez, 177 lbs of Worcester, MA is 28-2.

Jorge Lara took out former world champion Fernando Montiel by registering 4 knockdowns in a just over a minute of their Featherweight bout.

Lara dropped Montiel seconds in with a right hook.  Montiel was wobbly when he got up and was dropped two more times with right hooks.  He was allowed to continue after the third knockdown only to be leveled with anrother rght hook and he went down face first and the fight was stopped at 1:37.

Lara, 124 lbs of Guadalajara, MX is now 28-0-2 with 20 knockouts.  Montiel, 126 lbs lbs of Los Mochis, MX has seen better days and his record now stands at 54-6-2.

Good looking Super Middleweight prospect David Benavidez stopped Phil Jackson in round two of their scheduled eight round bout.

Benavidez systematically beat down Jackson over the first round and a half until he landed a uppercut and shot to the body that softened Jackson up for a follow up left hook that sent Jackson down face first and the fight was stopped at 2:07.

Benavidez of Phoenix, AZ is now 14-0 with 13 knockouts.  Benson is now 16-3.

Gerald Washington remained undefeated by scoring a 8-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Eddie Chambers.

Washington of Los Angeles won by scores of 8-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 17-0-1.  Chambers of Philadelphia is 44-3.

SANTA MONICA, CALIF. (April 27, 2016) – Fight week kicked-off Wednesday afternoon with media workouts for the long awaited rematch between former world champion “Vicious” Victor Ortiz and Andre “The Beast” Berto that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes on Saturday, April 30 from StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.

The action begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features an explosive battle between light heavyweight sluggers Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez and Thomas “Top Dog” Williams Jr. plus unbeaten featherweight Jorge Lara taking on former multiple division world champion Fernando “Cucholito” Montiel.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $209, $105, $53, and $27, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase online at AXS.com.

Prior to the start of televised fights, an Official Fan Fest will be held for ticket holders outside of the StubHub Center. The events start at 2:30 p.m. PT and features a Corona Beer Garden, food trucks, music from the band Metalachi and autograph signings with popular fighters such as Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares, Shawn Porter and more.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from the Wild Card West Boxing Club in Santa Monica:

VICTOR ORTIZ

“I put a total of 14 weeks of work into this fight. Nothing easy about that work. Come the 30th, I’m going to prove why I beat Berto the first time.

“I know what I’m here to do. I’ve got my fire back. People claim that I don’t have the fire, but you’ll see on April 30.

“People don’t know what I go through on the daily. When I’m injured for months at a time, I just have me and my team. We work hard.

“I’m going to be back on top in no time. That’s my opinion. I know where I belong.

“I’m focusing on Berto. That’s my target and that’s my focus.

“He’s done what he’s done. You have to respect that. I’m here and I’m not going anywhere. We’re going toe-to-toe.”

ANDRE BERTO

“This is the type of game where if you don’t respect it, it won’t respect you. I’m in a much better place right now. I’ve learned a lot over the years since the first fight. I’m healthy and focused.

“I’m just ready to go. Camp was tremendous. We’re really ready to get in there and do it.

“There’s a lot that goes into this for me. It was my first loss and I had so many emotions back then, so it’s time to get that monkey off my back.

“My plan is to win this in a fashion so there will be no third fight.

“My focus is on getting the victory Saturday night. I want to look good doing. I’m not thinking about anything after that.

“I’ve worked on a lot of different things in camp. We’re going to do whatever it takes to get the win.

“You all haven’t ever seen me look like this. I’ve pretty much locked myself in a cage for eight or nine weeks. I’ve put everything aside. I’ve just been grinding.”

EDWIN RODRIGUEZ

“He’s got some power and some style. He can do a few things. We have to go at it.

“I feel great at this weight class. I have the speed and strength to make an impact in this division.

“I hadn’t fought a southpaw in a while but we’ve had great sparring with guys like Marcus Browne. I feel very prepared. I’ve never had an issue with southpaws.

“I’m excited to be back on the west coast. This is an incredible card. I was at the first fight between Ortiz and Berto and It’s going be another great fight. But I’m coming to steal the show on Saturday night.

“In boxing you’re as good as your last fight. Right now I’m a warrior who took more shots than I should have. I’ve improved quite a bit but I want to improve on any fights. I’m not going down again.”

THOMAS WILLIAMS JR.

“Win, lose or draw you know Thomas Williams will bring the fight to you. I’ve been dropped and gotten up. This won’t go the distance, so don’t blink.

“I’ve been boxing since I was five-years-old. I have an amateur pedigree and been pro since 2010. I had to take some time off in 2014 but now I’m back and stronger than ever.

“The biggest challenge is just getting to the ring. I don’t want to get caught up in the talk of what he does. It’s just going to be me in there. If I go in and do the things that I’m supposed to do, I should come out on top.

“You have to keep your punches short against a pressure fighter. A short punch will beat a wild punch any day. I just have to keep my composure and stay relaxed.

“I haven’t watched any of his fights. I leave that up to my trainers to create the game plan and we go from there. I have seen him fight before. We were on the same card, so I did have the chance to watch him live.”

JORGE LARA

“Montiel has been around a long time. He’s been a world champion and he comes to fight.

“I’ve studied him and watched him fight before. I feel I know him very well. I have a plan for how I’m going to get to him.

“I am very well prepared. I’m not worried about his experience. I’ve trained hard to be ready and I know what I have to do on fight night.

“The winners in this fight will be the fans. We are going to put on a great show and give the fans something to remember.

“If I can beat him, I can move up the rankings and get closer to a world title shot. That is my goal and this is a big step on my path.

“I’m really pumped up about fighting in front of the fans in Southern California. I know they will appreciate my style and it will be a great atmosphere on Saturday.”

FERNANDO MONTIEL

“Lara is a young talented guy and I’m going to have to be at my best. He’s a dangerous guy and I will have to be ready.

“I had to change everything to fight the lefthander after preparing to fight Abner Mares. We had a great camp and we will be ready.

“I’m excited to be on a card like this. I think the main event is going to be a really fun fight for the fans. I see both guys going down during the fight but I’m going with Victor to win.”

PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina. For more information visitwww.premierboxingchampions.com www.TGBPromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ViciousOrtiz, @AndreBerto, @LaBombaBoxing, @TopDoggJr, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX.

Richard T. Slone “The official artist of the International Boxing Hall of Fame” will be signing official posters of his Ortiz vs Berto 2 artwork. The first 2,000 people to arrive to the Corona booth will get an autographed poster.

Brittany Goossen-Brown

Hi everyone. Thank you for joining us today on this call. On behalf of TGB Promotions we are very excited to be back on FOX in primetime and promoting this highly anticipated and long-awaited rematch. On this call today we have the co-main and main event. Before I turn it over to Ray Flores who will introduce the fighters I wanted to remind everyone that tickets are still available. They’re starting at $27. Also we will be hosting a special Fan Fest beginning at 2:30 PM for any ticketed fan. There will be live music, food and fun and a Corona beer garden. I am looking forward to seeing all of the LA boxing fans out there. We’ll now turn it over to the voice of TGB Promotions Ray Flores.

Ray Flores
Thank you very much Brittany. We have an outstanding card from top to bottom. It is an honor and a pleasure. It is fight week. It is at the StubHub Center in Carson, California. PBC live on FOX and FOX Deportes at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

We have a tremendous triple header for all of you this Saturday. When you’re talking about it on social media use the hashtag #PBConFOX. Tickets are going very quickly. This fight is selling unbelievably well. Our televised opener features three division world champion Fernando “Cochulito” Montiel against the unbeaten Mexican brawler Jorge Lara. This is going to be a battle in the featherweight division.

In the co-feature we will have another battle. It is going to be a slug-fest featuring Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez colliding against Thomas “Top Dog” Williams. In the main event five years in the making it happens this Saturday PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes, it’s “Vicious” Victor Ortiz squaring off with Andre “The Beast” Berto. This is a fight that is without question going to be a barnburner.

Now let’s talk about one of our co-featured bouts of the evening. Fighting out of Fort Washington, Maryland, most recently having picked up two victories including a second round TKO over world ranked contender Umberto Savigne last November, ladies and gentlemen please welcome Thomas “Top Dog” Williams.

Thomas Williams
I’m just ready to go. It’s been a good training camp. This fight was originally scheduled for March the 12th in Connecticut. We had to simmer down a little bit because we were right on schedule and we bring it down to bring it back up. We’re here on April 30 and we’re just ready to go.

R. Flores
Thank you very much Thomas. We are excited to watch you fight against this man. He is born in the Dominican Republic now fighting out of Worchester, Massachusetts. His only loss came at the hands of Andre Ward back in 2013. He’s coming off of a Fight of the Year candidate last November against Michael Seals. What a matchup that was. It did certainly provide a lot of ebbs and flows and highs and lows in the course of the match. So please welcome ladies and gentlemen Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez.

Edwin Rodriguez
I’m happy to be back fighting in California. I’m excited. I had a really good training camp and Thomas is a good fighter. He seems to have had a good camp so this is going to be a great fight, you know, two top contenders going at it to try to fight to get a world title fight. The fans can’t go wrong on this fight.

Q
I want to ask both of you how exciting does this fight stand to be given your styles and what is at stake?

T. Williams
Honestly this fight will be exciting no matter what. I think it’s great for the light-heavyweight division to have two top light-heavyweights fight each other, both of them at the top of their game, both coming off of exciting wins.

This fight is going to be a fight that will be talked about for a while. I think it’s a very important fight and an exciting fight whether the winner fights Adonis Stevenson or not. Either way it puts the winner into a top position inside the light-heavyweight division.

E. Rodriguez
I agree with Thomas. I think that at this point Adonis Stevenson is irrelevant. I think that this is enough for the fans to see that this is a great fight between two warriors who put everything on the line.

I’ve been fighting for about seven, eight years as a professional and to fight for a world title that has always been the main goal. Without getting past Thomas William there is no Adonis Stevenson or any other title. So my main focus is going in there and being the best that I can be that night.

Q
How important is it for you guys to add a different narrative to the division?

T. Williams
Well I think Stevenson is not that exciting for me. I think as an individual my style is more exciting and Edwin’s style is more exciting than Adonis Stevenson. So I think we already pretty much separated ourselves from Stevenson. They call him out because he’s the champion but I don’t think their styles are exciting. I just think me and Edwin’s styles are little bit better than theirs honestly.

E. Rodriguez
Screw Stevenson, screw Kovalev. I’m just looking forward to finally performing against Thomas Williams.

Q
Edwin why do you think you’re going to be able to win this fight and get that title shot?

E. Rodriguez
I believe I had a really good training camp and did a lot of working against a southpaw. But fighting for a world title it’s a dream and a goal come true, not just fighting for but winning it. Thomas Williams is in my way. I worked extremely hard in this training camp to get him out of the way. I just got to put the game plan together fight night.

Q
What do you think your advantages are over him coming into this fight?

E. Rodriguez
I’m a little bit more seasoned. I have more total fights. I have fought better opposition. I have wins against undefeated fighters. Guys like himself with the one loss, I just got to put everything together. I think I have been there, I have more rounds.

Q
Thomas also why do you think you’re going to be able to win this fight and earn a title shot?

T. Williams
Well mainly because I’ve just been doing this my whole life. I never did any other sport. I came into the boxing gym at the age of five years old. My dad was a top professional. I’ve been doing this. I was sparring with world champions from Washington, DC at the age of 12 or 13 years old. Man I might not have the fights but I’ve been doing this my whole life as long as I can remember.

I just think I’ve just been around it and I’ve got the experience, amateur experience, just being around the game and just being in boxing all of my life. I’ve never did anything else, no other sport but boxing. I think that will actually be a big key on fight night.

Q
For both of you what is the significance of fighting on FOX and at StubHub Center?

E. Rodriguez
For me, going back to the StubHub Center and I fought there before, great atmosphere. Being on PBC on FOX, it’s huge. Especially being part of this big card with Berto-Ortiz who the first fight was – it was a war. So I’m looking forward and I’m just happy to be part of it as well, with Thomas who’s a fighter who brings a lot of pressure. It’s going to be a great match for the fans and you can’t go wrong.

T. Williams
Well yes I’ve always seen fights at StubHub like when Paul Williams fought Antonio Margarito for the title. He beat Margarito for the title then and that was a war. StubHub is known for like having the wars. They kind of built this card for brawlers and people that are exciting.

Berto versus Ortiz, me and Edwin and then we have Phillip Jackson from DC against David Benavidez those are going to be exciting fights. Fighting on FOX is that platform is going to be huge. I think it has like so many viewers and everything and man it’s definitely going to be a great atmosphere and I’m just ready to go.

Q
Do either of you expect this to go the distance?

E. Rodriguez
Hell no.

T. Williams
I don’t think anybody expects it to go the distance.

Q
Edwin, what’s your most potent weapon against Thomas? And Thomas if you could direct that regarding Edwin?

E. Rodriguez
Just fighting a southpaw, it’s a whole thing. Everything is different. So because of that I was happy to have a long camp, because fighting a southpaw there were things that we needed to work on. It’s a whole different style. I don’t want to get into details but, it’s just a whole different style and different game plan.

It’s easier for them because they always fight right-handed. We don’t fight that many southpaws. But, I feel comfortable. I never had any issues with southpaws so I’m excited to get this fight in. Actually I’d like to thank Thomas Williams because he was the one that came out and called my name that he wanted this fight.

I’ve got to thank him because without fighting a guy like Thomas who has a name in boxing and being on TV a few times, I wouldn’t have been able to keep moving up. Because I kept getting these guys that were undefeated but nobody really knew anything about them. So I think that fighting a guy like Thomas that, people know who he is. I think it’ll put that nail the coffin for me to get a world title fight.

Q
Does the right hand become more important?

E. Rodriguez
I don’t think so. I think that the jab is just as important as the right-hand in this fight.

Q
And same questions for you Thomas?

T. Williams
First thing I want to say and when I see Edwin I was going to ask him about this. I never once called his name. Actually when the fight was brought to me they told me Edwin wanted to fight me. I was like gees, like damn, I was okay, cool we could fight. So they brought it to me like Edwin wanted to fight me when in actuality they probably told him I wanted to fight him when in actuality they didn’t even have to do all that. All they had to do was tell us hey, we think it’s a good idea you guys fight. We both probably would have been like all right cool.

They called me and told me Edwin wanted to fight me.

E. Rodriguez
I guess it was set up for a good fight. I like it. Let’s get it on.

Q
How are you going to knock him out then?

T. Williams
I can’t tell it over the phone. But I believe in it and if I say something I’ll stick by it. I’m going to stick by it. So I just want him to know that as being a man that I didn’t call him out. They told me he wanted to fight me. It’s over but that’s all I wanted to say. But me fighting a right handed fighter I’ve been fighting the right-handed fighters my whole life.

We don’t usually run up against southpaw against southpaw. And usually if it is it’s pretty much easy work. But fighting a right-handed fighter doesn’t earn me nothing. You know I’ve been fighting right-handed fighters my whole life.

Q
Did the fight getting pushed back to April 30 benefit either of you anyway?

E. Rodriguez
I think it did. I think it has, you know, especially that I was able to get even more good sparring in. That’s the type of work I needed for this fight. So I think it actually did help me in that case.

T. Williams
Yes of course whenever you have more time to train it’s always a benefit. I don’t really believe it was actually negative. I think it was positive and that probably makes for a better fight honestly.

Q
Were either of you on each other’s radar even before you appeared on the same show last November?

T. Williams
Being a fighter everybody who’s ranked or in front of me or in the top ten is pretty much on my radar. Ee’re fighters. If we were firemen we’ll put out fires. If we were doctors we would save lives. But we’re fighters so it is what it is.

E. Rodriguez
After the Andre Ward fight I’ve just been working my way to get back on title contention. So no I’ve been looking for a world title fight. Thomas didn’t have that so I was never really looking at him or anything like that. But I’m happy this fight got made, two tough contenders going at it. It’s a great fight and I’m excited. Let’s get it on.

R. Flores
If we can have some final comments from both Thomas Williams and Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez as we get ready for our main event.

T. Williams
My thinking is that this is going to be a great fight. Go to the bathroom, get your popcorn, get your food and everything, change the kids, put the kids to sleep, do what you’ve got to do because you may get up go to the bathroom and it might be over. It’s definitely going to be fireworks and I’m definitely looking forward to it.

E. Rodriguez
I’d like to thank my whole team, especially everybody that has helped me in this training camp. We’re ready to put on a great show and let’s get it on.

R. Flores
This fight has been marinating for five years. The rematch is finally taking place and what a battle it is going to be, an epic fight in 2011. We expect another epic matchup this Saturday at StubHub Center. Tickets are still available to make sure to get them quickly at AXS.com. They are going fast.

Let’s bring in a gentleman from Winter Haven, Florida coming off of fighting Floyd Mayweather. He was amazing and his PBC debut. What a thriller he had last March when he stopped Josesito Lopez in the sixth round of their welterweight showdown ladies and gentlemen please welcome a throwback fighter a guy who always takes on any and all comers here is Andre Berto.

Andre Berto
Yo, yo, yo, I don’t really have too much to say. Let’s get this thing on. I’m ready.

R. Flores
All right, Andre I know he’s looking forward to his match and let’s bring in your adversary originally from Kansas City now he resides in Ventura, California. He came back to the ring back in December and in San Antonio he was able to stop Gilberto Sanchez Leon. He’s willing to take on anybody and everybody, ladies and gentlemen please welcome the charismatic “Vicious” Victor Ortiz.

Victor Ortiz
How you guys doing? I know Berto has been putting in the work and back in 2011 we did a fight of the year and it was one hell of a fight, back and forth. I got a victory that night and he didn’t arrive fully I didn’t arrive fully so we’re both present 100% this coming Saturday. So quien es mas macho?

Q
What do you think is going to be different to this fight than your first fight that you had five years ago when you were favored in that fight?

A. Berto
I’m in incredible shape. I’m staying focused for this one. I don’t like to speak too much on the past situation but there’s a lot of different things that went on in that camp and of course if you’re young you’re dealing with a lot and you kind of take a lot of stuff for granted.

So we’re definitely in great shape. I had a tremendous camp. I’m extremely focused man. I don’t care about this and that that they’re saying about either Victor or whatever the case may be. He’s a fighter, he steps in that ring and at any given time, he come in there to put on the performance of his life.

He showed that before. I’m not taking anything for granted and I’m not leaving nothing unturned. I’m getting ready for the big one.

Q
What did you learn from the first fight that you can apply to this fight? And do you expect it to be as action packed, with all the knock downs and everything that took place in that fight?

A. Berto
I definitely learned a lot. I went through a lot of situations as well that bring me to this point. I’m a lot stronger mentally, physically all the way around. I’m with a great coach. We’ve been putting everything together.

Q
Victor why do you think you’re going to be able to try again all of these years later with both the experience and the other fights that both of you have had?

V. Ortiz
Hey we’ve both had some nice wars so I’m ready once again like I was the first time and hey we’re there to put it all on the line on Saturday night so don’t miss out man. Berto’s coming to kill me and I’m coming to kill Berto that’s that.

Q
Do you expect another blood fest like you had in 2011?

V. Ortiz
Oh absolutely, Berto’s one hell of a fighter and I know that. I don’t take that for granted and I’ve prepared for 12 hard rounds like the first time. So the result’s banging it up.

Q
Anybody want to make a prediction for this fight?

V. Ortiz
Oh yes I’ll be holding my hands in glory in the end once again.

A. Berto
Yes. I come for the win that’s it. He can try. He can definitely try.

Q
Andre, after the fight with Floyd Mayweather, did you have to kind of step away and take a little bit of break before you recalibrated?

A. Berto
Yes we had a lot of going on but I just had to relax a little bit, spend time with the family and the fight came about and it as definitely a fight that I didn’t have to take but I think it was the fight the fans wanted to see.

Q
Victor, how much is it about giving the fans this exciting fight more than just going in there and getting the W because a lot of fans look at this as you guys can recreate the Fight of the Year again?

V. Ortiz
Yes, like I said early on Berto’s coming in 100 miles an hour to take my head off and it’s the same thing on my end. We’re prepared fully for one another so at this point in time it’s definitely one of those memorable fights and now a days you don’t really get what you pay for what’s really is advertised as a false advertisement. I know Berto’s coming in fully prepared and so am I.

He’s arriving 100% and I will too so it’s one of those exciting fights, a war.

Q
How do you approach this fight from the perspective of what you know about the opponent and how you kind of, you know, go into it? How much different is it from 2011 to 2016?

A. Berto
You get to know somebody, you get to know your opponent, you get to calculate how you plan and react.

I think the situation of just being prepared all the way around makes me feel comfortable and it’s a different feeling from what I had heading into the first fight.

V. Ortiz
Hey he’s a warrior, he comes to fight. He’s not like these guys that don’t take fights. Man you have another guy who’s hungry to try and he’s hungry to give me a defeat and it’s not going to happen. I’ve been working too hard for this. I know he is too but the bottom line is two trains colliding and crashing and I will be the harder one. So at this point in time, I’d say we’re going to be ready 100% and two trains colliding Saturday night.

Q
How did you bring all of that angst and focus into your fight with Berto back then? And do you need to tap into that same angst to have a similar kind of a performance?

V. Ortiz
No, no it’s simple it’s you guys and I say you guys not just you I’m saying media. The media has this weird way of working. You guys think how you guys think and you guys write it out and then because one person in the media writes something weird about you or bad about you the world believes it. I know what I’m about I know why I’m here I know where I’m going and that’s that. It doesn’t matter what you or anyone says. I don’t really care. I know what I’m here and I know where I’m going and that’s that period.

Q
Andre, is this personal for you? Do you have to really get in there and have a sensational performance for you to be satisfied?

A. Berto
I mean to be realistic man I don’t really take no fight personally. It’s always been but at the same time, this is a fight that of course I’ve always thought to myself that no matter what happens we got to make it happen again. It doesn’t matter, when you’re coming back and beating this guy beating that guy.

But I feel that this is still the monkey on my back that I need to go in there and handle it., I won’t say it’s more personal but I’m taking it a lot more serious and so that’s a job that I need to try to complete and get done.

Q
Do feel like you even need boxing and does that kind of drive you with each fight?

V. Ortiz
No I actually don’t need to box. I turned down two movies and I was starring and headlining on the movies as one of the main actors. I turned the movies down because I want be back where I came from. I want to make sure I conquer what I came to conquer in boxing. I’m not done with boxing, I mean yes I had a couple of breaks in my wrists were both broken, jaw broken and then broken nose. I mean stuff happens but just because I was fixing myself the media wrote me off.

It wasn’t me who quote unquote “retired.” I never hung up anything. I mean besides the posters in my room or maybe the pictures on my wall. Other than that I didn’t hang anything up. But you guys wrote me off so I guess it’s a media thing.

But I’ve been in boxing and I’ve been 100 miles an hour 100% and I keep getting offers for movies and I keep turning them down because boxing is where I’m headed.

Q
Did having a year off get you into the right frame of mind for the rematch?

V. Ortiz
It doesn’t matter, there’s boxing gloves there’s a mouth piece there’s a cup there’s a boxing ring and an opponent so it is what it is, same thing.

Do your parts in movies affect the focus of your boxing career? Also, do you have aspirations still of fighting for a world title?

V. Ortiz
Yes, I don’t let boxing interfere with acting and I don’t let acting interfere with boxing. Those are two type of careers. When I was actually healing was when I was focusing on only movies I was focusing on TV shows and just doing that. But now that my hands are healed and my wrists my jaw and everything is proper and I’m back to putting my mind on boxing 100%.

That’s what every boxer is here for and we’re shooting for nothing less than being world champion again. It just took me a little bit longer from the physical person. I actually had to put two movies aside contracts and everything ready to sign as a lead actor and I said no let me go back to boxing. So I’m here once again and I’m ready.

R. Flores
Excellent and at this time we want some final comments from Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto.

A. Berto
Hey man we’re waiting for fight time, see you Saturday.

V. Ortiz
Hey just check it out. It’ll be a repeat of 2011.

PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina. For more information visitwww.premierboxingchampions.com www.TGBPromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ViciousOrtiz, @AndreBerto, @LaBombaBoxing, @TopDoggJr, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing,www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX.

Prior to the start of televised fights, an Official Fan Fest will be held for ticket holders outside of StubHub Center. The events start at 2:30 p.m. PT and features a Corona Beer Garden, food trucks, music from the band Metalachi and autograph signings with popular fighters such as Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares, Shawn Porter and more.

Richard T. Slone “The official artist of the International Boxing Hall of Fame” will be signing official posters of his Ortiz vs Berto 2 artwork. The first 2,000 people to arrive to the Corona booth will get an autographed poster.

CARSON, CALIF. (March 17, 2016) – Former welterweight world champions “Vicious” Victor Ortiz (31-5-2, 24 KOs) and Andre “The Beast” Berto (30-4, 23 KOs) will meet again in a 12-round welterweight rematch in primetime on Saturday, April 30 as Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on FOX and FOX Deportes comes to StubHub Center in Carson, Calif.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features two exciting undercard attractions. Light heavyweight sluggers Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (28-1, 19 KOs) and Thomas “Top Dog” Williams Jr. (19-1, 13 KOs) meet in a 10-round brawl plus former three-division world champion Fernando “Cochulito” Montiel (54-5-2, 39 KOs) faces unbeaten Mexican brawler Jorge Lara (27-0-2, 19 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight battle.

Ortiz and Berto first faced off in their 2011 welterweight world title barn burner that garnered significant Fight of the Year buzz. The bout saw both men hit the canvas twice, including a thrilling round six in which each fighter was knocked down. In the end, Ortiz walked away with a unanimous decision. A victory in the rematch will propel the winner to the forefront of the world title picture in this stacked with talent division.

“I know I’m in for another war,” said Ortiz. “I’ve always been open to a rematch because Berto has a big mouth and something to prove. After our fight, he went on a losing streak, because I gave his opponents a blueprint on how to beat him. My losses have been unfortunate, but I wouldn’t want to come up against me at this stage in the game. My name is Victor and that’s no coincidence.”

“This is the fight the people have been waiting for and it’s time to give it to them,” said Berto. “I am in a good place mentally, physically and spiritually. I’ve never wanted my story to be perfect, that’s boring. Life is filled with ups and downs and I’ve embraced them all in my career. Everything I’ve been through has turned me into a savage. It’s time to close this chapter once and for all. I want his head!”

The undercard bouts are sure to feature exciting two-way action as the experienced veterans Rodriguez and Montiel look to hold-off rising contenders in Williams Jr. and Lara.

“This is a very big fight for the light heavyweight division,” said Rodriguez. “Thomas brings it, but so do I. You can expect fireworks from the opening bell as we are both looking to put on a sensational performance. That being said, the light heavyweight championship is right around the corner, and there is nothing that is going to stop me from getting there.”

“I’m thrilled to be fighting on this card,” Williams said. “When they called me about this fight, I said, ‘I love it, let’s make it happen.’ I think that it’s going to be a really exciting and fan-friendly matchup. Edwin is a strong fighter who I know is going to be prepared to bring it on fight night, and I’ll make sure I’m ready to do the same.”

“It’s a pleasure to be on this fight card and I promise an exciting night for the fans,” said Montiel. “I came up short in my last fight, but I am determined to become a world champion in a new weight class. I always come to fight and I will be throwing punches non-stop until I’m victorious on April 30.”

“I’m blessed to be back in the ring as part of this great night of fights,” said Lara. “My dream is to be a world champion, and to do that I have to beat fighters like Montiel. I respect my opponent, but right now he is on my way and nothing is going to stop me.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $209, $105, $53, and $27, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase online at AXS.com.

PBC on FOX in primetime debuted on January 23 and featured a thrilling three-fight card that was topped by undefeated star Danny Garcia conquering former world champion Robert Guerrero to claim a welterweight world title in a back-and-forth brawl. Another exciting contest in the welterweight division is sure to thrill those watching at home and the Southern California boxing fans in attendance.

“We are proud to be bringing this long awaited rematch to the StubHub Center and the Los Angeles boxing fans,” said Tom Brown of TGB Promotions. “Victor Ortiz and Andre Berto battled back in 2011, and their meeting on April 30 will take care of unfinished business.”

“After the overwhelming success of the return to boxing on FOX in January, after an almost 20 year absence, FOX Sports and FOX Deportes are thrilled to present the second Premier Boxing Champions fight on April 30,” said David Nathanson, FOX Sports Head of Business Operations.

“StubHub Center is excited to host this welterweight bout on Saturday, April 30,” said Katie Pandolfo, General Manager of StubHub Center. “We look forward to an exciting rematch and an electric atmosphere at the premier outdoor boxing venue in the United States.”

An exciting fighter who never shies away from action, Ortiz returned to the ring in December 2015 one year after injuring his hand during a third round stoppage of Manuel Perez. The 29-year-old stopped Gilberto Sanchez Leon in his last bout for his second victory in a row. Ortiz was a 147-pound world champion when he defeated Berto in 2011 to set up a showdown with Floyd Mayweather. The Kansas-native has spent time in recent years to film roles in movies such as “Southpaw” and “The Expendables 3” but is now fully focused on a return to the pinnacle of the welterweight division.

Berto is a former amateur standout and Olympian for his native Haiti. He challenged now-retired pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather in September. The offensive-minded Berto always makes for sensational scraps as his 2012 slugfest with Robert Guerrero was another Fight of the Year candidate. The 32-year-old thrilled in his PBC debut last March when he stopped Josesito Lopez in the sixth round of their welterweight showdown.

An accomplished amateur who won a 2006 National Golden Gloves gold medal and a 2005 U.S. National Championship gold medal, the 30-year-old Rodriguez enters this fight a winner of his last four fights. Born in the Dominican Republic but fighting out of Worcester, Massachusetts, Rodriguez’s only loss came to the undefeated Andre Ward in 2013. He owns impressive victories over previously unbeaten fighters Will Rosinsky, Jason Escalera, Ezequiel Osvaldo Maderna, Craig Baker and Michael Seals. Against Seals, in his most recent bout on November 13, Edwin rose from the canvas to score a devastating third-round TKO in what was a ‘Fight of the Year’ candidate.

Williams Jr., a 28-year-old from Fort Washington, Maryland, was introduced to boxing by his father, a former pro fighter. A dynamite puncher, Williams Jr. has registered seven of his 13 knockouts in the first round. However, the southpaw has also proven his endurance with unanimous decision victories over warriors like Michael Gbenga, Yusaf Mack and Otis Griffin. Most recently he earned two victories, including a second-round TKO over world-ranked contender Umberto Savigne last November.

The veteran Montiel won his first world title in 2000 over Isidro Garcia and went on to have title winning performances over Pedro Alzacar, Ivan Hernandez, Z Gorres, Ciso Morales and Hozumi Hasegawa. Born in Sinaloa, Mexico, Montiel rode an eight-fight win streak heading into his October world title shot against Lee Selby. Montiel’s aggressive style frustrated Selby but it was not enough for him to grab a title in his fourth weight class.

Undefeated out of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Lara made his U.S. debut on March 7, 2015 with a first round stoppage of Mario Macias in Las Vegas. The 25-year-old has ended seven of his last nine opponents early including experienced contenders Jovanny Soto, Jairo Hernandez and Oscar Ibarra. He looks to rebound from a technical draw in his last outing after the fight was stopped in six rounds due to numerous cuts Lara had received from accidental headbutts.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.comwww.TGBPromotions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and foxdeportes.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ViciousOrtiz, @AndreBerto, @LaBombaBoxing, @TopDoggJr, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Follow the conversation using #PBConFOX. PBC on FOX is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

It barely lasted more then two rounds, but Edwin Rodriguez scored a 3rd round stoppage over previously undefeated Michael Seals in a thrilling five knockdown Light Heavyweight bout at the Beau Rivage Casino in Biloxi, Mississippi.

In a wild first round, Rodriguez dropped Seals from a series of punches that was capped off by a right to the head. Seals came back to send Rodriguez to the canvas with a short right hand. Just before the end of the first frame, Seals landed a perfect left hook that sent Rodriguez plummeting to the canvas. In round two, Rodriguez caught Seals with a chopping right that sent Seals to the canvas. Seconds into round three, Rodriguez landed a perfect right that sent Seals down hard to the canvas and the fight was waved off at 24 seconds of round three.

Rodriguez, 175.4 lbs of Worcester, MA is 28-1 with 19 knockouts. Seals, 174.4 lbs of Atlanta, GA is 19-1.

Thomas Williams Jr. and Humberto Savigne traded knockdowns in round one but it was Williams who gained the upper hand and scored a 2nd round stoppage in a scheduled 10-round Light Heavyweight bout.

In round one, Williams dropped Savigne with a right hook to the head. Seconds later, It was Savigne who got even as he dropped Williams with a right to the head. In round two, Williams hurt Savigne with several punches and then dropped him for a second knockdown. Williams started landing hard wild shots and the referee stopped the bout at 1:48 of round two.

Williams, 174.6 lbs of Laurel, MD is 19-1 with 13 knockouts. Savigne, 175.8 lbs of Boca Raton, FL via Cuba is 12-3-1.

Bryant Perrella scored a 1st round stoppage over Caquib Fadli in a scheduled 8-round Welterweight bout.

Perrella landed about 10 punches to the body on the ropes and was ruled a knockdown. Perrella jumped on Fadli and landed a left down the middle that was followed by a flurry of punches sent Fadli to a knee and the bout was stopped at 1:30.

Perrella, 146.8 lbs of Fort Myers, FL is 12-0 with 11 knockouts. Fadli, 145.6 lbs of France is 13-6.

Former world title challenger Fernando Guerrero scored a 7th round stoppage over Daniel Souza Santos in a scheduled 8 round Middleweight bout.

Guerrero controlled the action and landed a barrage of punches until the fight was stopped at 1:45 of round 7.

Guerrero, 156.1 lbs of Los Angeles, CA is 28-3 with 20 knockouts. Santos, 156.2 lbs of Brazil is now 13-9.

BILOXI, Miss. (October 1, 2015) – Light heavyweight contender Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (27-1, 18 KOs) will take on undefeated Michael Seals (19-0, 14 KOs) Friday, Nov. 13 on Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on Spike live from MGM Resorts International’s beautiful Beau Rivage Resort & Casino on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Televised coverage will begin at 9 p.m. ET.

“This is a huge opportunity for me to clearly cement myself as one of the best 175-pounders in all of boxing,” said Rodriguez. “Michael Seals is coming to fight and I know what a win means for him and his career. That being said, this is going to be my night. George Bernard Shaw once said that, ‘life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.’ This victory is a major piece of the puzzle I’ve created for my life. A win on Nov. 13 moves me a major step closer to challenging for a piece of the light heavyweight crown, and there’s nothing and no one that will get in my way of achieving that.”

“I’d like to thank all parties involved for making this fight a reality,” said Seals. “I’ve remained focused mentally and in my training to make sure that I was completely prepared for my opportunity when the time came. I have a strong base and have been blessed with a chance to show the world my talents. I will be ready to go when the bell rings on Nov.13.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $62.95, $48.95, $34.95 and $20.95, plus tax and service charges. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the Beau Rivage Theatre box office, www.ticketmaster.com or by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

“Edwin Rodriguez is clearly one of the best 175-pounders in the world, and I am glad that he is getting a match-up of this caliber and an opportunity to showcase himself against a truly tough test in the highly regarded and undefeated prospect Michael Seals,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “The winner of this bout should be in line for a shot against Adonis Stevenson, or any of the other champions in the light heavyweight division, and we expect a spectacular performance from both guys when they meet November 13.”

“The light heavyweight division has become one of the most compelling division in boxing,” said Jon Slusser, Senior Vice President, Sports and Specials, Spike. “Spike is excited to have two of the rising stars in this weight class, Rodriguez and Seals, battle it out.”

“MGM Resorts International is home to the best boxing events in the world,” said Beau Rivage Executive Director of Entertainment Anthony Gibson. “I’ve watched a lot of boxing in the last 40 years and DiBella Entertainment’s events at Beau Rivage are some of the best I’ve seen. The theatre, the ring, the boxers and atmosphere are always first-class.”

An accomplished amateur who won a 2006 National Golden Gloves gold medal and a 2005 U.S. National Championship gold medal, the 30-year-old Rodriguez enters this fight as the winner of his last three. Born in the Dominican Republic but fighting out of Worcester, Mass., Rodriguez’s lone loss came to undefeated Andre Ward in 2013 and he owns victories over previously undefeated fighters Will Rosinsky, Jason Escalera and Ezequiel Osvaldo Maderna. Most recently he stopped previously unbeaten Craig Baker in the third round on a May PBC card.

Undefeated and fighting out of Atlanta, Georgia, Seals looks to make a mark on Nov. 13 when he faces his toughest competition to date. The 33-year-old played college football at the University of Alabama A&M before getting his start in boxing and turning pro in 2008. In 2012 he stopped the experienced Byron Mitchell in round one and has added five victories to his record since then including a March victory over Carlos Reyes.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LaBombaBoxing, @LouDiBella, @SpikeTV and @SpikeSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/Spike.

Sherman Oaks, CA (October 31, 2014) Goossen Promotions returns to the Pechanga Resort and Casino on Thursday, December 11th with
“NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS” a three-hour ESPN Boxing Special televised LIVE on ESPN 2, ESPN Deportes and WatchESPN beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

Advance tickets starting at $55.00 can be purchased through the Pechanga Resort and Casino website (www.Pechanga.com) or by calling 1-877-711-2946. Doors on the night of the event will open at 4:00 p.m. with the first bell at 5:00 p.m.

“We wanted to do something special in honor of Dan Goossen and we thought of no better way than to put on a great night of boxing just like he had done for so many years on ESPN,” said Brian Kweder, ESPN senior director of programming and acquisitions. “Dan’s contributions to the sport of boxing are well documented, but he was also a joy to work with and be around. I’m hopeful that he has a ringside seat wherever he may be for these fights.”

A lifelong resident of Southern California and popular fight promoter for over three decades, Goossen passed away at the age of 64 on September 28th.

Said Tom Brown of Goossen Promotions, “We could not be any more excited to bring this outstanding ‘Night of Champions’ boxing event to the beautiful Pechanga Resort & Casino. It is always great to provide their fans with an action-packed show!”

Headlining the event will be the return to Pechanga and ESPN of former junior middleweight world champion AUSTIN “No Doubt TROUT of Las Cruces, New Mexico in 10-round clash against tough Mexican veteran LUIS “Slayer” Grajeda.

With a record of 27-2-0 (14KO’s) including a victory over future Hall-of-Famer Miguel Cotto, the 29-year-old Trout returns to Temecula and ESPN following his action packed victory over Daniel Dawson on August 22nd.

Sporting a record of 17-3-2 (13KO’s), 27-year-old Grajeda has battled a long list of top contenders over his six-year professional career including Hector Camacho Jr., Jermell Charlo, Willie Nelson and Said El-Harrak.

Co-headlining at “NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS” will be a 10-round heavyweight clash featuring two-time former heavyweight world title challenger and longtime Southern California fan favorite CRIS “The Nightmare” ARREOLA.

Fighting out of Riverside, California, Arreola, 35-4-0 (31KO’s), returns to the ring against an opponent to be announced following his ESPN televised world title challenge against Bermane Stiverne this past May, a sensational battle stopped in the sixth round as the valiant Arreola came up short.

In a special attraction battle for the World Boxing Association Super Bantamweight Title, top rated contenders OSCAR ESCANDON, 23-1-0 (16KO’s) of Ibague, Columbia and Canadian southpaw, TYSON “Prince of Haiti” CAVE, 22-2-0 (6KO’s) will clash over 12-rounds.

Also appearing at “NIGHT OF CHAMPIONS” in a 10-round heavyweight battle will be former light heavyweight world champion ANTONIO “The Magic Man” TARVER of Tampa, Florida.

Best known for his two sensational victories over boxing legend Roy Jones Jr. and his excellent performance in “ROCKY 6”, Tarver has compiled a record of 30-6-1 (21KO’s) over his illustrious career.

Among the world class fighters rounding out the card in separate bouts are; former world champion and winner of The Contender Season One, SERGIO “The Latin Snake” MORA, 26-3-2 (9KO’s) of Los Angeles, former world title challenger EDWIN “The Bomba” RODRIGUEZ, 25-1-0 (16KO’s) of Worcester, MA, former super bantamweight world champion RICO “Suavecito” RAMOS, 23-4-0 (12KO’s) of Los Angeles, 2012 U.S. Olympian and hot light heavyweight prospects “Sir’ MARCUS BROWNE, 12-0-0 (9KO’s) of New York City and AHMED ELBIALI, 8-1-0 (7KO’s) of Cairo, Egypt.

Additional information on the undercard bouts will be announced shortly.

For more information on Goossen Promotions follow them on Twitter and Facebook @GoossenBoxing and view their new website at www.GoossenPromotions.com which will be launched in the near future.

About Pechanga Resort & Casino
Pechanga Resort & Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the western United States. Rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort & Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Offering more than 3,000 of the hottest slots, table games, world-class entertainment, 517 hotel rooms, dining, spa and golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort & Casino features a destination that meets and exceeds the needs of its guests and the community. Pechanga Resort & Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. For more information, call toll free (877) 711-2946 or visit www.Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort & Casino on Facebook and on Twitter @PechangaCasino.

Gennady Golovkin thrilled a sold out StubHub Center in Carson, California in the 2nd round of their scheduled 12 round Middleweight championship bout.

Golovkin rocked Rubio at the end of the opening frame from a right. In round two, Golovkin landed a thudding uppercut that drove Rubio to the ropes. A follow up barrage that was finished off by a looping left to the head sent Rubio down for the ten count at

Golovkin, 159 lbs of Kazakhstan is now 31-0 with 28 knockouts. Rubio weighed in 1.8 lbs over the Middleweight limit is now 59-7-1.

Nicholas Walters announced his presence as a top flight Featherweight as Nicholas Walters scored a 6th round stoppage over Nonito Donaire to capture the WBA “Super” Featherweight title.

Donaire struck first as he rocked Walters with a left hook at the end of round two. In round three, Walters landed his own left hook that sent Donaire to the canvas. In round four, Dinaire suffered a cut over his right eye. In roud six, a cut formed over Donaire’s left eye. At the end of the sixth round, Walters landed two thudding right hands with the latter pouncing off the top of Donaire’s head that sent the former Fighter of the Year to the canvas again. Donaire was barely able to get to his feet but referee Raul Caiz stopped the fight at 2:59 of round six.

Walters, 125 1/w lbs of Montigo Bay, JAM is now 25-0 with 21 knockouts. Donaire, 125 1/2 lbs of Philippines is now 33-3.

Edwin Rodriguez scored a 10-round unanimous decision over Azea Augustama in a Light Heavyweight bout.

Scores were 100-90 twice and 99-91 for Rodriguez, 174 3/4 lbs of Worcester, MA and is now 24-1. Augustama. 175 3/4 lbs is now 17-2.

Abraham Han scored a 10-round majority decision over Marcos Reyes in a Super Middleweight bout.

Reyes Dropped Han in round eight but was deducted a point in round for a low blow.

Han, 160 1/2 lbs won by scores of 97-91 twice and 94-94 and is now 23-1. Reyes, 160 3/4 lbs is 32-2.

New York, NY/Carson, CA (10/17/14) – Weighing in today at 174.8lbs., Worcester, Massachusetts-native Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez, 24-1 (16 KOs), is ready for his light heavyweight debut against Azea Augustama tomorrow night at the StubHub Center, in Carson, CA. Scheduled for 10 rounds, the bout will air on HBO Latino, beginning at 12:15am ET.

“I’m excited to be returning to action and to get back on HBO,” said Rodriguez. “I feel that with my last fight against Andre Ward, my body was telling me that I needed to move up in weight. I’ve had a really good training camp for this fight and I’m going in there to send a message to the light heavyweight division that I am an elite fighter. My opponent is a good boxer, a former Olympian, but I’m not worried about what he’s doing. I’m just looking to be the best Edwin Rodriguez I can be tomorrow night.”

A popular New England fighter and an accomplished amateur, Rodriguez turned pro in 2008 and signed with DiBella Entertainment a year later. Always willing to take on the best fighters out there, his last six opponents had a combined record of 107-2-3, dating back to 2011. Underneath the Sergio Martinez-Matthew Macklin middleweight championship bout at Madison Square Garden on St. Patrick’s Day 2012, Rodriguez displayed excellent technique in outboxing the always-tough Donovan George over 10 rounds to pick up the USBA super middleweight belt, on HBO’s World Championship Boxing. After impressively stopping the previously undefeated Jason Escalera in eight rounds in September 2012, on HBO’s Boxing After Dark, Edwin participated in and won the “Million Dollar Super Four” tournament in Monte Carlo, Monaco, defeating the 19-0 Ezequiel Maderna via 10-round unanimous decision and demolishing the 13-1-1 Denis Grachev by TKO inside the opening frame.

His performances in the tournament earned him a shot at the Super WBA super middleweight champion Andre Ward, considered by many as the second best boxer in the world. On November 16, 2013, Edwin worked hard to bring the fight on the inside and take Ward out of his game plan, but would ultimately lose a 12-round decision. Now refreshed and rejuvenated, Rodriguez is determined to reclaim his lofty high-ranked status, as a light heavyweight.

He’ll be facing Haitian-born Azea Augustama, 17-1 (9 KOs), of Miami, FL, who weighed in at 175.8lbs. After losing a controversial eight-round majority decision to the 8-0 Denis Grachev in 2011, Augustama has gone on to score eight straight victories over several tough contenders.

“Augustama is a good boxer, but is just not in Edwin’s class,” said trainer Ronnie Shields. “This has been the best training camp we’ve had since I’ve been working with him. This is the first time where we didn’t have to focus so much on losing weight. I think Edwin has the skill set to compete with anybody in the light heavyweight division. I’m expecting him to look spectacular tomorrow night.”

“We’re happy that Edwin is returning to the ring where he belongs, as a light heavyweight,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Augustama is an excellent test for Edwin’s move into the light heavyweight division.”

The Rodriguez-Augustama bout will air on HBO Latino tomorrow night, starting at 12:15am ET, directly following HBO’s telecast of the Golovkin-Rubio middleweight championship contest.

Los Angeles, CA (September 25, 2014) Two additional bouts have been confirmed to the acclaimed “MEXICAN STYLE” world championship professional boxing event set for Saturday, October 18 at the StubHub Center in Carson, California which will be televised on HBO Latino beginning at 12:45 a.m. ET/PT (on tape delay).

In a 10-round light heavyweight battle, former world title challenger EDWIN “La Bomba” RODRIGUEZ will face off against fast rising contender AZEA AUGUSTAMA of Miami, Florida.

Opening the HBO LATINO BOXING telecast will be an evenly matched 10-round middleweight clash between hard-hitting contenders MARCOS “Dorado” REYES of Chihuahua, Mexico and El Paso, Texas native ABRAHAM “Abie” HAN.

“Adding these two action packed bouts to an already stellar card validates this as one of the premier boxing events of 2014” said Tom Loeffler, Managing Director of K2 Promotions. “We’ve met with the StubHub Center Team this week and are exploring options to add more tickets to this event.”

Presented by K2 Promotions, GGG Promotions and Promociones Del Pueblo, “MEXICAN STYLE” is headlined by Boxing’s fastest rising star, GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN, defending his WBA/IBO Middleweight World Titles against WBC Interim Champion MARCO ANTONIO “El Veneno” RUBIO in the scheduled 12-round main event.

The co-feature bout on October 18th is a featherweight showdown between 2012 Fighter of the Year and four-division world champion NONITO “The Filipino Flash” DONAIRE, 33-2-0 (21KO’s) and undefeated world champion NICHOLAS “The Axe Man” WALTERS, 24-0-0 (20KO’s) who will battle it out to determine the undisputed World Boxing Association (WBA) featherweight world champion. Donaire vs. Walters is presented by Top Rank®.

Both world title fights will be televised Live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. With a simulcast on the HBO Latino service.

RODRIGUEZ vs. AUGUSTAMA is presented by DiBella Entertainment.

“We’re happy that Edwin is returning to the ring where he belongs, in the light heavyweight division,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Augustama is an excellent test for Edwin’s move into the light heavyweight division.”

Said Rodriguez, “I’m excited to be returning to action and to get back on HBO. I’ve had a really good training camp with great sparring preparation. I feel that with my last fight against Andre Ward, my body was telling me that I needed to move up in weight.”

“This is Edwin’s first fight at 175 pounds,” said Augustama. “He picked the wrong light heavyweight. I feel sorry for him. He picked the wrong guy to come back against. It will be the biggest mistake of his career.”

After impressively stopping the previously undefeated Jason Escalera in eight rounds in September 2012 on HBO Boxing After Dark®, Edwin participated in and won the ‘Million Dollar Super Four’ tournament in Monte Carlo, Monaco, defeating the 19-0 Ezequiel Maderna via 10-round unanimous decision and demolishing the 13-1-1 Denis Grachev by TKO inside the opening frame. His performances in the tournament earned him a shot at the WBA Super Middleweight Champion Andre Ward.

On November 16, 2013, Edwin worked hard to bring the fight on the inside and take Ward out of his game plan, but would ultimately lose a 12-round decision. Now refreshed and rejuvenated, Rodriguez is determined to reclaim his lofty highly ranked status, as a light heavyweight.

Haitian-born Azea Augustama is an extremely fast and agile boxer/puncher with a lethal straight right hand.

After losing a controversial eight-round majority decision to the 8-0 Denis Grachev in 2011, Augustama has gone on to score eight straight victories, over the likes of durable and hardnosed opponents Billy Bailey, Rayco Saunders and Cory Cummings. Against Jermain Mackey this past January, Augustama picked up the WBC Fecarbox title by winning a unanimous eight-round decision.

Sporting a record of 32-1-0 (24KO’s) and well known in Mexico for his show stopping knockout victories, the 26-year-old Reyes is undefeated over the last four years, a winning streak of nineteen bouts.

Making his third start of 2014, Reyes is coming off a ten round unanimous decision over Octavio Castro on June 7th in his hometown of Chihuahua, Mexico.

With a distinguished record of 22-1-0 (14KO’s) over his seven-year professional career, the 29-year-old Han will be looking to stay in the win column, riding a three bout undefeated streak.

Most recently Han thrilled his legion of local fans with a second round knockout of perennial contender J.C. Candelo on April 5th in El Paso, Texas.

Han’s only loss came to highly regarded contender Glen Tapia in July 2013.

The StubHub Center is located at 18400 Avalon Blvd. in Carson, CA 90746. For directions and further information, please visit their website at www.StubHubCenter.com Doors will open at 3:00 p.m. PT on the day of the event for a full program of world class boxing with the first bell at 3:15 p.m. PT.

For fight updates on GOLOVKIN VS. RUBIO via Social Media, follow HBO Boxing on Twitter at @HBOBoxing and Facebook at /HBOBoxing, in addition to on Twitter at Gennady Golovkin/ @GGGBoxing, Marco Antonio Rubio/ @MAVenenoRubio, Tom Loeffler – K2 Promotions/ @TomLoeffler1 and Promociones Del Pueblo/ @PromoDelPueblo. Use the hashtag #GolovkinRubio to join the conversation on Twitter.

It started at yesterday’s weigh-in when Edwin Rodriguez failed to make weight for his WBA Super Middleweight clash with Andre Ward. Then he and Ward engaged in an ugly fight that saw Ward easily score a twelve round unanimous decision ast the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California.

The fight started out with Rodriguez running across the ring and trying to bully Ward. Ward would have nine of that as he started drilling Rodriguez with pinpoint shots with both hands. Ward was dominating the fight with both hands and featured a hard power jab. In round four, the fight turned ugly as inordinate amount of clutching and grabbing by both men forced referee Jack Reiss to not only pause the bout but take two points away from each man, warn them and suggest that the commission fine both fighters. Reiss also intimated that he was hit by a stray punch.

“We had two highly trained athletes full of adrenalin and emotion,” the veteran referee observed. “I deducted two points from each of them and warned them that the deduction of another point would result in a disqualification. That was done with the intent to produce an exciting, competitive fight all the way to its conclusion. And it did.”

That admonishment seemed to work as the bout picked up a better flow but unfortunately for Rodriguez it was all Ward as he continued to rock Rodriguez with body shots, hard jabs and even an uppercut that hurt Rodriguez in round eleven.

Despite being off 14 months for shoulder surgery, Ward solidified his status among the pound for pound elite bu pounding out the decision by scores of 118-106, 117-107 and 116-108 to raise his perfect mark to 27-0. Rodrigiez or Worcester, MA is now 24-1.

“We knew he would come out and try and bull me,” said Ward, who showed no ill effects from his inactivity following surgery to his right shoulder.

“Instead of trying to win rounds he was looking to land one big shot. He wanted to make it ugly and hope he could land something big. Jack Reiss did a tremendous job keeping the action going.”

“He was putting his head down a little too much,” a frustrated Rodriguez pointed out. “Andre Ward is very tricky, but does not have a lot of power in his right hand. I am just disappointed in my performance. The weight had nothing to do with it. He’s a good fighter. What can I say?”

Super Middleweight Edwin Rodriguez was 2 pounds over the 168 pound weight limit for his Saturday fight with champion Andre Ward in Ontario, California according to Dan Rafel of espn.com

“We’re going to work on [losing the 2 pounds]. I feel pretty good,” Rodriguez said while still at the scale after being overweight. “I’m gonna work on it.”

“I think there’s a chance Edwin might not be able to make this weight again,” Lou DiBella, Rodriguez’s promoter, told ESPN.com. “He couldn’t lose another ounce. He couldn’t even spit.”

For missing weight, the commission fined Rodriguez 20 percent of his career-high $1 million purse. Of the $200,000 fine, half will go to the commission and the remaining $100,000 will be given to Ward, boosting his purse from $1.9 million to $2 million.

As part of a deal made with the Ward camp, Rodriguez is required to reweigh at 9 a.m. PT on Saturday and cannot be heavier than 180 pounds.

“It’s at his peril,” DiBella said.

“I’m greatly disappointed and I’m really annoyed,” DiBella said. “I’m not a hypocrite. I’ve been public about this situation with other fighters and talked about their unprofessionalism, and I’m not going to change my tune because he’s my fighter.

“This is the opportunity of your lifetime, this is everything to this kid and his family, and I’m greatly disappointed. I truly believe in him as a fighter and that he had a chance to do something great, and now he is in a situation where he can’t win the belt, and he has been docked money his family desperately needed, and I have a hard time believing he will be at his best. I have empathy if he simply couldn’t make the weight, but that doesn’t change the annoyance or disappointment or stop me from saying I’m sorry on behalf of his team to Andre Ward, Ward’s team, HBO and to the fans.”

ONTARIO, CA (Nov. 14) — Andre Ward & Edwin Rodriguez get up close and personal at the final press conference before they colllide for Ward’s WBA & Ring Magazine Super Middleweight Title Saturday night in the fight dubbed “THE RETURN.”

Andre “S.O.G.” Ward:

“I’m locked in. I take this sport real serious. And he (Rodriguez) is going to find that out come Saturday night. Everybody talks about how hungry he is as a challenger, but he is running into a hungry champion. I am excited to get back. I’m sharp. I’m ready to be better than ever. ”

Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez:

“I respect Andre Ward. I think he’s a good fighter. He has accomplished a lot in the sport of boxing, winning the tournament in the Super Six. But, at the same time, I don’t respect him either. I’m ready to get in there and punch that guy in the face. Come November 16th, I will do just that.”

“THE RETURN”features a 12-round World Championship bout between Super Middleweight World Champion, Andre Ward and undefeated challenger Edwin Rodriguez. The night of boxing will take place Nov. 16 from the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, Calif. live on HBO World Championship Boxing® (10:00 p.m., ET/PT). Available in HDTV.

Tickets are priced at $200, $125, $75, $50 and $25 (parking included with purchase) and are available at Citizens Business Bank Arena Box Office or online at AXS.com or call AXS at 888-929-7849 starting. For more information, please visit www.CBBankArena.com. Doors for the event open at 3:00 p.m.

The Ward-Rodriguez bout is being presented by Goossen Tutor Promotions in association with S.O.G. Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, and sponsored byToyota, Morongo Casino Resort Spa and the City of Ontario.

For more information on Goossen Tutor Promotions, including exclusive behind-the-scenes videos and photos, visit www.goossentutor.com . For more information on DiBella Entertainment, visit www.dbe1.com . Follow HBO Boxing news at www.hbo.com/boxing , on Facebook www.facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/hboboxing . Join the conversation by using the Hashtag #WardRodriguez on Twitter.

LONDON (14 Nov) – Boxing’s best super middleweight, Andre Ward, returns to the ring this Saturday following a 14-month layoff, adamant he can take advantage of his opponent’s all guns blazing approach.

The WBA super-middleweight world champion, who also holds The Ring Magazine equivalent, is set to make his eagerly anticipated return this weekend against the undefeated Edwin Rodriguez, after being out of action for over a year due to a shoulder injury.

Fighting in front of his native Californian crowd at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, the 29-year-old is out to show there is little in the way of ring rust and that the sparkle which saw him overcome Chad Dawson so comprehensively in his last outing, back in September 2012, very much remains.

He goes into the bout against the tricky Rodriguez knowing it’s not an easy assignment for his first fight back but intends to use his past experiences against similarly styled opponents to his advantage.

“We’re going to execute the gameplan and going to let it unfold, and if it unfolds the way it’s supposed to, he definitely can be stopped,” said Ward, speaking exclusively to BoxNation.

“He’s never been 12 rounds before and he makes a lot of mistakes. His eagerness is his strength but it’s also his weakness, similar to Froch. He doesn’t regard his defence, he’s reckless at times but if you’re reckless you can be caught out,” he said.

“Edwin’s a good fighter, he’s undefeated, he’s a hungry challenger but he’s also dealing with a hungry champion. So you’ve got to look at that side too. I’ve not just got to deal with him, he’s got to deal with me,” Ward said.

The 28-year-old Rodriguez, from the Dominican Republic, has built up a notable record with 24 wins from 24 fights with an impressive 16 stoppages.

It is not so much the record which concerns Ward, who himself remains undefeated, but rather his opponent’s desire to seize his chance under the spotlight.

“I don’t think its just being an undefeated fighter but the fact that it’s his opportunity. I had my opportunity in 2009, now it’s his chance and you can’t underestimate his mindset going into the fight,” Ward stated.

“But at the same time you’re not dealing with some guy, speaking of myself, who’s underestimating this kid or doesn’t know who he’s fighting. I’m well aware of Rodriguez’s strengths, and his weaknesses.

“At this level you want to take away your opponents strengths and expose their weaknesses and that’s what I’m planning on doing,” he said.

Ward’s return to the ring on BoxNation continues a majestic next couple of months for the channel which has secured the world’s biggest bouts live and exclusive all the way up until Christmas.

Featured over the next few weeks will be Manny Pacquiao against Brandon Rios, Dereck Chisora and Nathan Cleverly, as they take part in their respective bouts at the Copper Box Arena. Plus, Paulie Malignaggi vs. Zab Judah, Adrien Broner against Argentine axe man Marcos Maidana and many, many more big names.

Ward vs. Rodriguez is live and exclusive on BoxNation (Sky Ch. 437/Virgin Ch. 546) from 2am this Sunday morning. Visit www.boxnation.com to subscribe.
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-Ends-
About BoxNation
BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated subscription boxing channel. For £10* a month and no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

BoxNation is proud to support Fight for Peace, a charity that uses boxing and martial arts combined with education and personal development to realise the potential of young people in communities that suffer from crime and violence. Buy LUTA (www.luta.co.uk) clothing and support Fight for Peace.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Khan vs Diaz and Mayweather vs Alvarez.

The channel is available on Sky (ch 437), Virgin (ch 546), online at Livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android.

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

For more information visit www.boxnation.com

*Plus £10 one off registration fee for Sky TV and new Livesport.tv customers.

ONDON (31 Oct) – BoxNation’s knockout November is set to pack even more of a punch with the channel adding super-middleweight supremo Andre Ward’s crunch world title clash with undefeated Edwin Rodriguez to its star studded lineup.

The encounter sees the world’s best 168-pounder, Ward, defend his WBA world super-middleweight title on November 16th in Ontario, California against the ferocious 28-year-old from the Dominican Republic, adding yet another mouth-watering matchup on the ‘Channel of Champions’.

Boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao’s ring return against the formidable Brandon Rios in Macao, China on November 23rd and Queensberry’s Copper Box extravaganza on November 30th, featuring heavyweight hitman Dereck Chisora and former world champion Nathan Cleverly, are the other main attractions in a jam-packed November schedule.

And now, with the addition of Ward, regarded as one of the slickest and best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, BoxNation has yet again delivered a fight that will have boxing fans on the edge of their seat.

The bout with the hardened Rodriguez comes after a 14-month layoff for Ward, due to a shoulder injury, having previously worked his way through some of the very best including Chad Dawson, Mikkel Kessler and Britain’s Carl Froch, capturing the WBC, WBA and Ring Magazine world titles along the way.

“I’m excited to get back in the ring on November 16,” stated the champion Ward. “The opponent is Edwin Rodriguez. He’s a young, hungry, undefeated fighter who doesn’t believe he can lose and it’s my job to change his mind. I think he and his team feel like they are going to catch me slipping coming off of surgery and the layoff. I try to live like a champion. I stay in the gym, eat well, and don’t abuse my body and this rest that I got was needed. I don’t feel like the layoff will hurt me, I feel like it will help me. It allowed me to rest mentally and physically, and I want to show the fans on November 16 that I’m better than I was before I left.”

After making a huge statement in his last bout, stopping Denis Grachev in the first round at the ‘Monaco Million Dollar Super Four Tournament’,

Rodriguez believes he has all the tools to cause a big upset. “Vince Lombardi once said, ‘Life’s battles don’t always go to the stronger or faster man. But sooner or later, the man who wins is the man who thinks he can.’ On November 16th, I know I will win,” said Rodriguez.

Jim McMunn, General Manager of BoxNation, said: “It’s great that we continue to deliver the biggest and best boxing shows live and exclusive on BoxNation. The aim of the channel from the outset was to make sure British fights fans had access to the best fights from all over the world at the very best possible value. We are delighted that we have been able to add yet another great fight to our packed November schedule, this time featuring arguably the second best pound-for-pound fighter in the world in Andre Ward. With a host of names including Manny Pacquiao, Brandon Rios, Dereck Chisora, Nathan Cleverly, and many more also featuring, Christmas has come early for all boxing lovers.”

BoxNation is a dedicated subscription boxing channel offering UK fight fans the best bouts from the domestic and international circuit for only £10 a month (plus a one off £10 registration fee). For more information please visit www.boxnation.com.

– Ends –

About BoxNation
BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated subscription boxing channel. For £10* a month and no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

BoxNation is proud to support Fight for Peace, a charity that uses boxing and martial arts combined with education and personal development to realise the potential of young people in communities that suffer from crime and violence. Buy LUTA (www.luta.co.uk) clothing and support Fight for Peace.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Khan vs Diaz and Mayweather vs Alvarez.

The channel is available on Sky (ch 437), Virgin (ch 546), online at Livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android.

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

For more information visit www.boxnation.com

SHERMAN OAKS, CA (September 30, 2013) – Oscar Molina (7-0, 6 KOs), who represented Mexico in the 2012 Olympic Games will return on November 16, 2013 at the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California looking for his eighth professional victory as he takes on Carlos “Gallo” Sanchez in a 6-round bout underneath the Andre Ward vs. Edwin Rodriguez WBA World Championship event.

This past Saturday in Toluca Mexico and broadcast on Televisa, Molina scored a spectacular 5th round knockout over a very game Ignacio Miranda (3-10, 2 KOs) that had the sold out arena standing cheering on their feet. Molina is quickly showing the abilities of an up-and-coming serious contender in the Jr Middleweight division. Backed by a great amateur pedigree that included a 2008 Youth World Amateur Boxing Championship Gold medal and Silver in the 2011 Pan American Games, Molina is fast adjusting to the professional style.

Co-promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions and Promotions Del Pueblo, Molina will be looking for his 7th consecutive knockout against Sanchez after going the distance in his first professional bout.

The event is promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions. The Ward-Rodriguez bout is presented in association with DiBella Entertainment. Sponsored by Toyota, Morongo Casino Resort & Spa and the City of Ontario.

For more information on Goossen Tutor Promotions, including exclusive behind-the-scenes videos and photos, visit www.goossentutor.com. Follow us on www.facebook.com/goossentutor and www.twitter.com/GoossenTutor. Follow HBO Boxing news at www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook www.facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/hboboxing. Join the conversation by using the Hashtag #WardRodriguez on Twitter.

SHERMAN OAKS, CA (October 24, 2013) – In his last fight against unbeaten Cleveland native Mickey Bey back in July of this year, Covina, Calif. lightweight John Molina Jr. looked like he may have trouble with the faster and accurate punching Bey. That presumption became more evident as the rounds went by.

Although Molina was able to land one hellacious shot after another. Bey was just as able to withstand them through the first nine rounds. It wasn’t until the 10th and final round Molina unleashed a series of these dangerous blows that put Bey into another hemisphere and provided Molina with the win and a “Knockout of the Year” candidate.

In a non-televised bout, Molina now has been added to fight in a 8-round bout underneath Andre “S.O.G.” Ward who will put his world titles on the line against the undefeated Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (24-0, 16 Kos) in a scheduled 12-round World Championship main event on November 16 at the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California, which will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

Molina (26-3, 21 KOs) has an extraordinary ability to hurt men with his fists. Fans, trainers, promoters, networks and virtually every other living creature walking the earth crave the same thing from their fighters, big knockouts. He possesses something most men do not and as Bey found out, he will use every last second to do harm to you with his fists. Molina is now looking for redemption earning another shot at the championship knowing he carries natural destruction in his hands to achieve the title.

In baseball, the great equalizer is a home run. In football, the touchdown pass does it. In boxing, it’s the knockout. It can turn the worse case scenario in a blink of an eye.

Joe Goossen, Molina’s trainer, believes the confidence and experience, combined with Molina’s extraordinary large size for a lightweight, will bode well for Molina as he uses his willpower and heavy hands to reach the world championship pinnacle.

The superb non-televised companion bout to the Ward-Rodriguez main event will be Ward stablemate, world rated super middleweight Brandon Gonzales (17-0-1, 10 KOs) of Sacramento, CA who will bring his undefeated record to Ontario in a 10-round bout against another undefeated fighter in Jonathan “Country Boy” Nelson (19-0, 9 KOs) from Little Rock, Ark. Trained by Virgil Hunter, Brandon’s last bout televised by HBO, and first scheduled 10-round fight, against Thomas Oosthuizen (21-0-2, 13 KOs), Gonzales had to settle for a disputed draw against the heavily favored South African world contender, although Gonzales was the aggressor from the outset and appeared to be the clear winner at the end of the bout.

Nelson’s uncle and trainer Ozell Nelson who guided the career of Nelson’s friend and mentor, former world champion Jermain Taylor and the one responsible for his nephew’s entry into boxing believes Jonathan has the ability to become a world champion. Said Jonathan, “I know that a lot of people – since Jermain Taylor and I have the same trainer – like to say there’s a lot of similarities in our fighting styles. If I see an opening, I take it.”

After falling short of qualifying for the Olympics, one of the amateur distinctions Nelson has going into this bout with Gonzales is he holds a points win (13-6) over Brandon in a 2006 contest.

As for the other Molina on the non-televised card, no relation to John, the 2012 Mexican Olympic boxer Oscar Molina, who made his professional debut back in January — and has won all six of his bouts to date, five by KO — will add to his busy inaugural year as a pro by fighting in a 6-round bout against Carlos Sanchez (5-4, 1KO).

Currently, the 23-year old native of Chihuahua, Mexico who grew up in Norwalk, CA, is preparing at the Maywood Boxing Club for his bout. Oscar Molina and twin brother Javier Molina (14-1, 6 KOs) are both former Olympians in boxing; though four years apart and for different countries. Javier represented Team USA in the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, whereas Oscar represented Mexico in the 2012 Olympics in London.

Oscar made his professional debut on January 26, 2013 in Chihuahua, Mexico, where he won a four-round unanimous decision over Hector Mendoza. Since then, Oscar has been extremely active, stopping all five of his next opponents.

In a 6-round Jr. Lighweight bout, Paramount’s favorite son, Charles Huerta, takes on Ontario’s Jonathon Arellano (13-2-2, 3 KOs). Plus, the fast-rising Ten Goose Boxing prospect, featherweight Juan Funez (2-1, 1 KO) of Reseda, CA, battles Carlos Gonzalez (1-3) of Bell, CA. There will be three other companion bouts to be announced shortly.

The event is promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions in association with S.O.G. Promotions. The Ward-Rodriguez bout is presented in association with DiBella Entertainment and the event is sponsored by Toyota, Morongo Casino Resort & Spa and the City of Ontario.

HERMAN OAKS, CA (September 20, 2013) – Following slightly more than a year’s absence from the ring due to injury, Bay Area hero, 2004 U.S. Olympic gold medalist and current WBA and Ring Magazine World Super Middleweight Champion, Andre “S.O.G.” Ward makes his highly anticipated return to the ring defending his title against Edwin Rodriguez on Saturday, November 16 at the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, CA.

Simply and appropriately billed as “The Return,” Ward (26-0, 13 KOs) will risk his title against the undefeated Rodriguez (24-0, 16 KOs) in the scheduled 12-round World Championship main event which will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.

Tickets are priced at $200, $125, $75, $50 and $25 (parking included with purchase) and will be available at Citizens Business Bank Arena Box Office or online at AXS.com or by calling AXS at 888-929-7849 starting on Friday, September 27. For more information, please visit www.CBBankArena.com.

Following last year’s 10th-round destruction of then-WBC Light Heavyweight titleholder Chad Dawson in his biggest and most impressive defense of both his WBA and WBC belts in his hometown of Oakland on September 8, Ward was scheduled to take on former WBC/WBO Middleweight Champion Kelly Pavlik back in January. However, the bout had to be scrapped because Ward required surgery to an injured right shoulder, keeping Ward out of the ring for over 12 months and costing him an intriguing fight and sending Pavlik into retirement.

With Ward’s Super-Six Tournament demolition through the 168-pound division against the likes of Mikkel Kessler, Arthur Abraham, Allan Green, Sakio Bika and Carl Froch, Ward now puts his attention toward the currently ranked #1 WBC, #3 WBA, IBF and WBO Rodriguez.

“I’m excited to get back in the ring on November 16,” stated the champion Ward. “The opponent is Edwin Rodriguez. He’s a young, hungry, undefeated fighter who doesn’t believe he can lose and it’s my job to change his mind. I think he and his team feel like they are going to catch me slipping coming off of surgery and the layoff. I try to live like a champion. I stay in the gym, eat well, and don’t abuse my body and this rest that I got was needed. I don’t feel like the layoff will hurt me, I feel like it will help me. It allowed me to rest mentally and physically, and I want to show the fans on November 16 that I’m better than I was before I left.”

So now the 29-year old Ward can’t wait to make his return against the Dominican-born super middleweight, who now lives in Worcester, Mass. Having made a huge statement in his last bout stopping Denis Grachev in the first round in Monte Carlo, France winning the “Monaco Million Dollar Super Four Tournament” – Rodriguez, 28, will be fighting for the first time in California. In his most recent outing, the undefeated Rodriguez known as “La Bomba, ” handled Grachev from the opening bell. The normally durable Grachev went down twice in the first round and was taking further punishment when referee Stanley Christodoulou stepped in to stop the one-sided bout. Grachev was coming off impressive wins over highly-touted Californian Ismayl Sillakh, and also ended former champion Zsolt Erdei’s undefeated run. With the victory, the DiBella-promoted Rodriguez has propelled his name toward the top of the 168-pound division targeting Ward in the process.

“Vince Lombardi once said, ‘Life’s battles don’t always go to the stronger or faster man. But sooner or later, the man who wins is the man who thinks he can.’ On November 16th, I know I will win,” stated Edwin Rodriguez.

“I commend Andre Ward for accepting a huge challenge after an injury and layoff. On November 16th, he will wish he didn’t when he gets La-Bombed by La Bomba,” said longtime promoter Lou DiBella.

Some strong words from the #1 world-rated Rodriguez proclaiming the demise of the #2 pound-for-pound fighter in the world.

Ward probably summed it up best, “You have a young fighter in Edwin Rodriguez that feels like it’s his time. You have a young veteran in myself that feels like it’s still my time, and those ingredients will make for a blockbuster fight on November 16 on HBO.”

All other bouts will be announced shortly. Doors open at 3 p.m. with the first undercard fight set at 3:15 p.m.

The event is promoted by Goossen Tutor Promotions in association with S.O.G. Promotions. The Ward-Rodriguez bout is presented in association with DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Morongo Casino Resort Spa and the City of Ontario.

“We are proud to be a sponsor to this great boxing event featuring WBA and Ring Magazine Supermiddleweight World Champion Andre Ward,” stated Morongo Casino Resort Spa General Manager, David Brents.

For more information on Goossen Tutor Promotions, including exclusive behind-the-scenes videos and photos, visit www.goossentutor.com. For information on DiBella Entertainment visit www.dbe1.com. Follow HBO Boxing news at www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/hboboxing. Join the conversation by using the Hashtag #WardRodriguez on Twitter.

Citizens Business Bank Arena, built and owned by the City of Ontario, operated by AEG Facilities, includes 9,500 fixed seats with additional “portable” seating risers to accommodate capacities of 11,089 for concerts, 9,736 for ice hockey and 10,832 for basketball. The Arena is home to Ontario Reign, an ECHL Premier AA Hockey Team. The venue is the biggest and most modern arena within the Inland Empire, an area with over 4.1 million people. It is located in the City of Ontario, on a 37-acre parcel located between Haven Avenue and Milliken Avenue, Fourth Street and the I-10 Freeway.

New York, NY(7/31/13) – Edwin Rodriguez and Larry Army Jr., of Elite Management LLC, have jointly announced that their professional relationship has ended amicably under a settlement that has been mutually agreed upon. Edwin appreciates the partnership that he had with Larry since April 2008. He is looking forward to focusing on the next stage of his boxing career and his ultimate goal of winning a world championship. Larry is also moving ahead with his career, having just signed undefeated lightweight prospect Ivan Redkach (14-0, 12 KOs) to a managerial contract, and with other signings looming on the horizon. Both parties have agreed that they will have no further comment on this matter. Edwin continues to be promoted by DiBella Entertainment and is currently celebrating his recent stunning first-round knockout of Denis Grachev in the finals of the Monte Carlo Million Dollar Super 4 Tournament on July 13 in Monaco.

New York, NY (7/23/13) – With DiBella Entertainment stable-mate Edwin Rodriguez yelling from ringside to “Make your statement!”, Ryan “The Polish Prince” Kielczweski (17-0) did just that this past Friday in his national TV debut on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights. Kielczweski, of Quincy, Mass., scored a sensational one-punch KO over the previously undefeated Puerto Rican knockout artist Miguel Soto (now 11-1, 11KO’s) in the fifth round of their scheduled eight-round super featherweight contest at Rockingham Park in DBE Salem, NH. The knockout was so spectacular that it was voted as the fifth best play of the day on that evening’s ESPN Top 10.

Kielczweski’s highlight-reel knockout came just six days after Worcester’s Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (24-0, 16KO’s) demolished Denis Grachev inside the opening round of the finale to the coveted Monte-Carlo Million Dollar Super 4 tournament in Monaco.

Both performances were eye-catching and spectacular.

Both performances were easily the most important and impressive of their respective careers.

Both performances have the boxing world still talking and fans excited about the future possibilities.

“It has been exactly 10 days since my fight and I am still ecstatic,” said Rodriguez. “The fan and media response that I have received since I returned home has been overwhelming. I spent the day at the ESPN studios last week and was a special guest for Friday Night Fights. It was great being there to see Ryan put on such a terrific performance. Not only is he a stable-mate of mine at DBE, but I also consider him a friend. To see him perform the way he did in his biggest fight and first national TV exposure was just great. I remember being in that same position not so long ago.”

“It was the absolute best way I could ever imagine to celebrate a birthday,” said Kielczweski, who was celebrating his 24th birthday this past Friday. “Having Edwin at the fight and hearing him cheer me on was really something special. Edwin is an inspiration to not only me but to everyone coming up out of the New England area right now. Fighting on his undercards and seeing the success he has had makes me want to work that much harder so I can get to that level.”

Boxing has been a way of life for the two Massachusetts-natives for many years. Both the 28-year-old Rodriguez, who began boxing at 16, and 24-year-old Kielczweski, who first took up the sport at the ripe old age of six, had stellar amateur careers fighting throughout the New England region. Both fighters claimed the New England Golden Gloves championship, with Rodriguez also winning the 2005 US Amateur Championship and the 2006 National Golden Gloves.

Both Rodriguez and Kielczweski turned pro in 2008. Kielczweski has fought exclusively under the DBE banner, having been brought to DiBella’s attention by Sampson Lewkowicz, who also discovered middleweight kingpin Sergio Martinez, as well as Manny Pacquiao. Rodriguez signed up with DiBella a year later in 2009.

The two have been featured together on five cards thus far, including when Rodriguez headlined the HBO Boxing After Dark event on September 29, 2012, at Foxwoods, as well as his October 21, 2011, ShoBox: The New Generation headliner, also at Foxwoods. In addition to his two appearances on HBO and three on Showtime, Rodriguez has also been featured twice on ESPN. Kielczweski hopes that he will be able to follow in that same path as he makes the transition from up-and-coming prospect to legitimate world championship contender.

With his victory over Grachev, Rodriguez is in line for a title shot and has expressed interest in facing any and all of the champions in the 168lb. division. The WBC #3, WBA #3, IBF #3, WBO #5 and ESPN.com #8-rated super middleweight Rodriguez will be coming to New York within the next week or two to further discuss his next move with DiBella.

“I want a world championship. This is what I have been dreaming about since I first started boxing. All of the hard work and grueling hours in the gym and time away from my family; these are the sacrifices that I have had to make to get to this point, to challenge for and to win a world championship,” said Rodriguez.

Rodriguez continued, “I’m rated in the top five in all four major sanctioning bodies and I feel that I match up well with any of the champions in the 168lb. division. Whether it is Froch, Stieglitz, Bika or Ward, I am ready. Everyone knows that Ward is the top guy and there has been talk about that fight. I am coming to New York in the next week or two and meeting with Lou to discuss what he thinks is the best move for us. Whatever he decides though, I know that my team (head trainer Ronnie Shields, strength and conditioning coaches Danny Arnold/Matt Bartula and nutritional and conditioning advisor Victor Conte), will come up with a great game plan and have me in the best possible shape to get me into position to take home that belt. New England fight fans are some of the greatest in the entire world, and I am ready to be their next champion.”

While Kielczweski is still a bit away from that level, he does feel that his performance was an eye-opener and that he is ready to prove himself against any of the other so-called top super featherweights in the world.

“There were discussions earlier this year of me facing Jose Pedraza. I loved that fight when they first brought it to my attention, and I still do. He has been called a blue-chip prospect, and the next champion to come out of Puerto Rico. A win over him will put me right where I want to be in my career.”

NEW ENGLAND STRONG

In addition to Rodriguez and Kielczweski, the New York-based promoter DiBella has a number of New England fighters under his DBE banner, including junior welterweight contender Danny O’Connor (21-1), of Framingham, Mass., and New Haven, Connecticut’s exciting undefeated super bantamweight Luis Rosa (14-0). O’Connor is managed by Ken Casey, leader singer of the Dropkick Murphys, and has developed a cult-like following of fans that continues to grow with each outing. Both O’Connor and Rosa picked up victories on the undercard of Gennady Golovkin’s middleweight title defense over Matthew Macklin on HBO last month at Foxwoods.

New York, NY (7/16/13) – Fresh off his scintillating first-round annihilation of Denis Grachev in the coveted Monte-Carlo Million Dollar Super 4 Tournament finale in Monaco this past Saturday, red-hot, top-rated super middleweight contender Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (24-0, 16KO’s) will visit the ESPN Studios in Bristol, CT, tomorrow afternoon. Rodriguez will spend a few hours at the studios participating in a number of media activities and discussing his sensational victory from this past Saturday.

The WBC #3, WBA #3, IBF #3 and WBO #5-rated Rodriguez will also be featured on this evening’s live ESPN.com weekly boxing show “Making the Rounds” via Skype from his home in Worcester, MA, and will be ringside this Friday at Rockingham Park in Salem, NH, for this week’s edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights.

“Words cannot describe how I feel right now,” said a jubilant Rodriguez. “I am still just so excited. This was the biggest and most important win of my career and I feel absolutely amazing. I have waited a long time to get to this point in my career and now I am excited to see what the future holds.”

Regarding his upcoming visit, Rodriguez seemed to be equally as thrilled.

“I am really looking forward to visiting the studios. This will be my first time there, and I feel honored that they have asked me to come out. This is a great opportunity for me to touch base with the fans both here in the US and around the world.”

While Rodriguez is still on cloud nine from his recent victory, which carried a $600,000 grand prize, he is most happy to be back home with his family.

“I’m ecstatic to be home and to spend time with my children and my wife. I am especially happy to spend time with my three-month-old son and get to know him since I was in training camp right after his birth. We are headed to Disney World!”

Once Rodriguez returns home from his family vacation he will then begin discussions with promoter Lou DiBella who is already working on his next fight.

Edwin Rodriguez captured the Monte Carlo Million Dollar Challenge with an explosive 1st round stoppage over tough Denis Grachev at the Salle des etoiles, Monte Carlo, Monaco.

In the first seconds of the fight, Rodriguez went for blood as he launched hayemaker shots that landed on Grachev until a right sent Grachev down in the first minute. Rodriguez continued the assauly as he landed two rights that were followed by a vicious left that sent Grachev down a second time. Rodriguez was all over Grachev as he landed countless shots and battered Grachev until referee Stanley Christodoulou stopped the bout at 2:50 of round one

Rodriguez, 171 1/2 lbs of Worcester, MA wins $600,000 and ups his record to 24-0 with 16 knockouts. Grachev, 171 lbs of San Diego via Russia pockets $400,000 for his troubles and is now 13-2-1

Khabib Allakhverdiev made the first defense of the WBA Super Lightweight championship with an 11th round stoppage over former champion Souleymayne M’Baye

In round two, after a furious exchange, Allakhverdiev landed a right hook to the head that sent M’Baye to the canvas. Allakhverdiev continued to get the better of M”Baye with the challenge being able to get in some decent counters with the right hand.

In the 11th, Allakhverdiev backed M’Baye with a series of punches and a hard flurry against the ropes forced referee Luis Pabon to stop the bout.

Allakhverdiev, 139 3/4 lbs of Russia is now 19-0 with 9 knockouts. M’Baye, 138 3/4 lbs of France is now 40-5-1.

In an action filled Cruiserweight bout, Ilunga Makabu scored a twelve round majority decision over previously undefeated Dmytro Kucher.

It was Kucher who came out landing the better shots early. The southpaw Makabu started getting into a groove in the middle rounds and he would land some sizzling three and four punch combinations for which Kucher had no answer four. Makabu had a big round eight where he bloodied the nose of Kucher from one of those flurries that was punctuated by an uppercut. Kucher would get in some solid shots and the battled toe to toe up until the final bell.

Makabu, 191 1/2 lbs of South Africa won by scores of 115-114, 115-113 and 114-114 and is now 14-1. Kucher, 198 lbs of Kiev, Ukraine is now 21-1.

Max Bursak retained the European Middleweight title withe a one sided twelve round unanimous decision over Price Arron.

Bursak dominated the bout and dropped Arron in round nine from a hard left hook to the body. Arron was deducted a point for holding in round ten. Bursak came forward and landed many power shots at close range. Arron tried, especially in round twelve but was way behind on the cards and Bursak won by scores of 116-109, 119-106 and 117-108.

Bursak, 159 lbs of Kiev, Uktaine is now 27-1-1. Arron, 159 1/4 lbs of the United Kingdom is now 23-5-1.

Denis Grachev may be the underdog, but he’s training with the will of a champion ahead of his July 13 fight with Edwin Rodriguez for the Million Dollar Super Four crown in Monte Carlo, Monaco.

The tournament is promoted by Golden Gloves.

Grachev (13-1, 8 KOs) is holed up at Abel Sanchez’s Summit Gym in Big Bear, California, where the stable includes WBA and IBO middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin, who fights in the US later this month.

Grachev earned his place in the final against Rodriguez (23-0, 15 KOs) with a rugged 10-round split-decision defeat of undefeated two-time champion Zsolt Erdei in Monaco in March.

The man who trades by the name “The Son of Drago” says that while he was only in camp for 10 days for the Erdei fight, this camp would total six weeks’ training, leaving him in “the best form ever”.

“We are high in the mountains, eight of us fighters, just boxing and training. It is hard work, very intensive, with jogging in the morning and much training the rest of the day. I wasn’t in my best shape last time, but this will be different.”

Grachev says the fight with Erdei was the hardest of his career. “With his boxing style and experience, it was my most difficult fight. It was hard to find the key to beating him. I think it will be easier with Rodriguez. He is the favourite according to many boxing fans, but they are going to be disappointed. It will probably be his first loss.”

Sparring with Golovkin has added sharpness to the Russian’s repertoire, but he’s also trained with Zaurbek Baysangurov, the WBO junior-middleweight champion, and two other Russians.

“I’ve had very good sparring, especially Gennady [whose last defence topped the Monte Carlo card]. We are studying Rodriguez’s style and sparring accordingly.”

A former champion kickboxer and mixed martial artist who has fought all over the world, he especially enjoyed the Monte Carlo experience. “It’s a fantastic place and I learned good boxing lessons there. I found out some of my mistakes and I am now working on them. Winning Super Four would mean a lot; it would be a great honour being better than Erdei and Rodriguez.”

The Monte Carlo card includes champion Khabib Allakhverdiev (18-0, 8 KOs) versus Souleymane M’baye (40-4-1, 22 KOs) for the WBA and IBO light-welterweight championship, the WBC Silver cruiserweight fight between title holder Dmytro Kucher (21-0, 15 KOs) and Junior Makabu (13-1, 13 KOs) and a European middleweight title fight between Maksym Bursak (26-1-1, 2 KOs) and Prince Arron (23-4-1, 5 KOs).

New York, NY / Monaco / Johannesburg (June 13) – Denis Grachev may be the underdog, but he’s training with the will of a champion ahead of his July 13 fight with Edwin Rodriguez for the Million Dollar Super Four crown in Monte Carlo, Monaco.

Grachev (13-1, 8 KOs) is holed up at Abel Sanchez’s High Altitude Training Facility in Big Bear, California, where the stable includes WBA and IBO middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin, who fights in the US later this month.

Grachev earned his place in the final against Rodriguez (23-0, 15 KOs) with a rugged 10-round split-decision defeat of undefeated two-time world champion Zsolt Erdei in Monaco in March.

The man who trades by the name “The Son of Drago” stated, it’s been very inspiring to be up in Big Bear, California with world champions like Gennady Golovkin and Zaurbek Baysangurov. Prior to the Erdei fight I was only here for ten days, however this time I’m up here for six weeks which will put me in the best form ever.”

“We are high in the mountains, eight of us fighters, just boxing and training. It is hard work, very intensive, with jogging in the morning and much training the rest of the day. I wasn’t in my best shape last time, but this will be different.”

Grachev says the fight with Erdei was the hardest of his career. “With his boxing style and experience, it was my most difficult fight. It was hard to find the key to beating him. I think it will be easier with Rodriguez. He is the favorite according to many boxing fans, but they are going to be disappointed. It will probably be his first loss.”

“I’ve had very good sparring, especially Gennady [whose last defense topped the Monte Carlo card]. We are studying Rodriguez’s style and sparring accordingly.”

‘It’s been very inspiring to be up in Big Bear with world champions like Golovkin and Baysangurov and watch how they train and prepare for their world title defenses.”

A former champion kickboxer and mixed martial artist who has fought all over the world, he especially enjoyed the Monte Carlo experience. “It’s a fantastic place and I learned good boxing lessons there. I found out some of my mistakes and I am now working on them. Winning Super Four would mean a lot; it would be a great honor being better than Erdei and Rodriguez.”

The Monte Carlo card includes champion Khabib Allakhverdiev (18-0, 8 KOs) versus Suleyman M’baye (40-4-1, 22 KOs) for the WBA and IBO light-welterweight championship, the WBC Silver cruiserweight fight between title holder Dmytro Kucher (21-0, 15 KOs) and Junior Makabu (13-1, 13 KOs) and a European middleweight title fight between Maksym Bursak (26-1-1, 2 KOs) and Prince Arron (23-4-1, 5 KOs).