ATLANTIC CITY-– Jaron “Boots” Ennis passed his biggest test of his career in flying colors as he scored an entertaining beatdown of Eimanras Stanionis to unify his own IBF and Stanionis’ WBA welterweight titles in front of a big crowd at Boardwalk Hall

The fight began with a great pace as Ennis was able to land quick shots that set up harder combinations. Stanionis was able to keep honest as he was able to get in some good hard jabs and right hands of his own. Ennis was able to box free and work behind his power shots to continuously beat Stanionis to the punch. Stanionis as having a good round five until he ate a big uppercut that turned the round around as it produced a bloody nose from the Lithuanian. In round six, Ennis landed a big combination that was culminated by and uppercut that put Stanionis on the deck. Staniomis seemed to have steadied himself, but when he sat down on the stool, the corner called and end to the fight.

Ennis is now a unified champion with a record fo 34-0 with 30 knockouts. Stanionis of Lithuania is 15-1.

Raymond Ford Decisions Thomas Mattice

Former world champion Raymond Ford won a 10-round unanimous decision over Thomas Mattice in a super featherweight bout.

Ford landed 128 of 610 punches. Mattice was 24 of 126.

Ford, 130 lbs of Canden, NJ won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 17-1-1. Mattice, 129.6lbs of Cleveland is 22-5-1.

Omari Jones Stops Jackson in 1

Omari Jones made it two consecutive first round stoppages as he took care of William Jackson in their welterweight bout.

Jones landed a left hook to the body that put Jackson down for referee David Franciosi’s 10-count at 1:47.

Jones, 149.6 lbs of Orlando, FL is 2-0 with two knockouts. Jackson, 150 lbs of Cincinnati is 13-6-2.

Giyasov Stops Ocampo in 4

WBA number-one ranked welterweight Shakhram Giyasov stopped Franco Ocampo in round four of their 10-round welterweight fight.

At the end of round one, Giyasov buckled Ocampo with a hard left. Giyasov then landed a big flurry that was punctuated by a right that dropped Ocampo. In round four, Giyasov landed a straight right to the body that put Ocampo down and the fight was halted.

Giyasov, 149 lbs of Uzbekistan is 17-0 with 10 knockouts. Ocampo, 153 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 17-3.

Zaquin Moses stopped Alex Pallette in round two of their four-round super featherweight bout.

Moses dropped Pallette with a straight left and the bout was stopped at 2:13.

Moses, 128.8 lbs of Newark, NJ is 3-0 with two knockouts. Pallette, 129.8 lbs of Toa Baja, PR is 1-4.

Tahmir Smails needed just 73 seconds to dispose of Earl Bascome in a scheduled eight-round welterweight bout.

Smalls scored a knockdown and referee Charlie Fitch reached the 10-count at 1:!3.

Smalls, 147.8 lbs of Philadelphia is 14-0 with 10 knockouts. Bascome, 148.6 lbs of Hamilton, BER is 13-2.

Arturo Cardenas scored an eighth and final round stoppage over late replacement Edgar Joe Cortes in a super bantamweight bout.

In round five, Cardenas dropped Cortes with a hard left hook. In round seven, Cardenas planted Cortes on the canvas with a perfect right hand. Cardenas was dominant in the final round as he pounded away on Cortes and dropped him again with a right hand. Referee Charlie Fotch called a halt to the fight just as Cortes hit the deck at 1:30

Cardenas, 122.3 lbs f Mexico is 16-0-1 with 10 knockouts. Cortes, 123.6 lbs of Millville, NJ is 9-8-1.

Cortes stepped for Christian Carto. Carto with drew this week for unspecified reasons.

Francisco Rodriguez remained perfect with a stoppage of Naheem Parrker after round three of their six-round lightweight bout.

Rodriguez, 135 lbs of Atlantic City is now 7-0 with seven knockouts. Parker, 136 lbs of Camden, NJ is 5-2.

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ – April 11, 2025 – Undefeated Welterweight Champions Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Eimantas Stanionis, met one last time for their official weigh in at the Circus Maximus Theatre at Caesars Hotel in Atlantic City today ahead of their clash on the Matchroom card at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall on Saturday, April 12, live worldwide on DAZN.

IBF Welterweight Champion Ennis (33-0 29 KOs), coming off his unanimous decision victory over Karen Chukhadzhian in November, will headline a Matchroom Boxing card against WBA Welterweight title holder Stanionis (15-0 9 KOs) who outpointed Gabriel Maestre in Las Vegas in April 2022. Both Ennis and Stanionis have been searching for unification bouts since landing their titles, and now the pair clash with the Ring Magazine title also on the line at a venue that has hosted the very best fighters on the planet. 

Ennis and Stanionis were joined by the rest of the undercard. Please see below for the official weights ahead of tomorrow’s event.

MAIN EVENT: IBF, WBA & RING MAGAZINE WELTERWEIGHT TITLES – 12 ROUNDS

Jaron Ennis                             vs.                   Eimantas Stanionis

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania                            Kaunas, Lithuania

33-0 (29 KOs)                                                15-0 (9 KOs) 

146.4 LBS                                                      146. 8 LBS

CO-MAIN EVENT: WBA CONTINENTAL NORTH AMERICA SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE – 10 ROUNDS

Raymond Ford                       vs.                   Thomas Mattice

Camden, New Jersey                                     Cleveland, Ohio 

16-1-1 (8 KOs)                                               22-4-1 (17 KOs)

130 LBS                                                         129.6 LBS

WELTERWEIGHT BOUT – 6 ROUNDS

Omari Jones                           vs.                   William Jackson

Orlando, Florida                                              Cincinnati, Ohio

1-0 (1 KOs)                                                     13-5-2 (5 KOs)

149.6 LBS                                                       150 LBS

WELTERWEIGHT BOUT – 10 ROUNDS

Shakhram Giyasov                            vs.       Franco Ocampo 

16-0 (9 KOs)                                                   17-2 (8 KOs)

Bukhara, Uzbekistan                                      Buenos Aires, Argentina

149 LBS                                                          153 LBS

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT – 4 ROUNDS

Zaquin Moses                         vs.                   Alex Pallette

2-0 (1 KO)                                                       1-3 (1 KO)

Newark, New Jersey                                       Toa Baja, Puerto Rico

128.8 LBS                                                       129.8 LBS      

WELTERWEIGHT BOUT – 8 ROUNDS

Tahmir Smalls                         vs.                   Earl Bascome

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania                            Hamilton, Bermuda

13-0 (9 KOs)                                               13-1 (2 KOs)

147.8 LBS                                                      148.6 LBS 

SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT BOUT– 8 ROUNDS 

Arturo Cardenas                     vs.                   Edgar Joe Cortes

Sahuayo de Morelos, Michoacan, Mexico     Millville, New Jersey

15-0-1 (8 KOs)                                               9-7-1 (1 KO)

123.2 LBS                                                      123.6 LBS  

LIGHTWEIGHT BOUT – 6 ROUNDS

Francisco Rodriguez               vs.                   Naheem Parker

Atlantic City, NJ                                              Camden, New Jersey

6-0 (6 KOs)                                                 5-1 (2 KOs)

135 LBS                                                         136 LBS 

ABOUT ENNIS VS. STANIONIS:
Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis and Eimantas Stanionis will face off in a unification fight for the IBF, WBA and Ring Magazine World Welterweight titles on April 12 at the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J. Ennis (33-0, 29 KOs) will defend his IBF title for the third time, having previously defeated David Avanesyan and Karen Chukhadzhian. Stanionis (15-0, 9 KOs), who won the WBA regular title in 2022, became the full champion in August when Terence Crawford vacated the belt. Both fighters have sought unification bouts since claiming their titles. Ennis is determined to make a statement, while Stanionis is eager to prove he’s the best in the division. The fight is promoted by Matchroom Boxing.

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ – April 10, 2025 – Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis and Eimantas Stanionis will clash in a blockbuster unification battle for the IBF, WBA and Ring Magazine World Welterweight titles at the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City on Saturday, April 12, live worldwide on DAZN.

Ennis (33-0 29 KOs) puts his IBF title on the line for the third time in his third fight under Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, with his previous defenses seeing the Philadelphia star thrill his hometown fans at Wells Fargo Center, first forcing David Avanesyan to retire after five rounds in July and then outpointing mandatory challenger Karen Chukhadzhian in November.

Stanionis (15-0 9 KOs) returned to the ring with a victory over Gabriel Maestre in Las Vegas, outpointing the Venezuelan to retain the WBA regular title that he won in April 2022 in Texas against Radzhab Butaev. The 30 year old, who represented Lithuania in the 2016 Olympic Games, was elevated to full champion in August when Terence Crawford vacated the WBA belt.

Raymond Ford will face Thomas Mattice for the WBA Continental North America Super-Featherweight title on the undercard, while Olympic Bronze Medalist Omari Jones will step into the ring for the second time as a professional after making quick work of Alessio Mastronunzio just a month ago in his hometown of Orlando. 

This is what they said ahead of their respective fights:

EDDIE HEARN

“It’s been a long time coming for big time boxing here in Atlantic City. Some of the iconic boxers have fought here at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall and you will get the fight of the year here on Saturday. The fight for Welterweight supremacy with Jaron “Boots” Ennis against Eimantas Stanionis for the WBA, IBF and Ring Magazine championship all live and exclusive around the world on DAZN.

“All we ever want in the boxing community is the best against the best. Champion vs. Champion. Whenever we get an opportunity to do number one against number two we have to grab it with both hands. This venue is iconic with huge fights and names as Jaron Ennis takes on Eimantas Stanionis.”

JARON ENNIS

“I’m ready to show out and put on a show and show the world why I’m the best and come Saturday night I’m going to take home all these belts. We expect him to do what he usually does. Come forward, throw a lot of jabs, punches and try to hook, a typical pressure fighter. I don’t think he can do much else other than that.”

“I’m definitely excited to fight at this iconic venue. One of my favorite fights to watch was Floyd (Mayweather) vs (Arturo) Gatti, and I’m excited about fighting in the same arena. Hopefully, I can put a historic moment during this fight just like that.”

“I want to be the standard of the Welterweight division and be with those top guys like Floyd Mayweather and Sugar Ray Leonard. Not too many people can say they have fought for the Ring Magazine and division titles but on Saturday night I will, and I will be stamping my legacy right there. We’re going to show the world why I’m the best. We‘re going to put on a show for sure.” 

“I’m not going to look for a knockout, but it’s coming. We’re going to have fun. We’re going to show out. He said all gas, no breaks. He’s going to run right into a rock.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS 

“It’s a big opportunity, I know Ennis is a very good fighter, but I came here to give it my all and the best shot I can put.” 

“I know they think they might knock me out. First of all, I’ve never been knocked out so we will see, but it can always be the first time. I will do my best on April 12 and didn’t come here for a walk in the park. I went into this camp with my most brutal training and I sacrificed a lot and left my family. My wife is pregnant, and my baby might come today or tomorrow. It’s been a lot of sacrifices that I have put because I love the sport and believe in myself so I will see you on April 12 and give all my heart. 

“Because of the opportunity and the opponent, I put everything into it. I left no stones unturned and last time I finished my training I said “thank god” no injuries and I’m ready to go.”

“This means a lot and I look forward to taking all these belts to Lithuania on Sunday. I’m winning Saturday night by going all gas no brakes.”

BOZY ENNIS 

“Boots hasn’t gone to another level yet. I hope Stanionis can bring it out of him. That’s what I’m waiting for. Then you will see different boots. He just goes out there and does what he does. But if Stanionis can bring it out then you’re going to see something.”

“Tom Brown knows Boots asked for Stanionis a long time ago. We asked for Stanionis. We asked for Crawford. We asked for all of them back then. At that time, no one was willing to fight Boots. At the last fight, I guess they saw something. They thought they saw something anyway. Now that everybody wants to fight, let’s fight. Let’s fight and see who’s going to be victorious. I don’t think it’s going to last that long.” 

MARVIN SOMODIO

“It’s been a long journey for Eimantas. Eimnatas turned pro in 2017. He became a world champion in April 2022. Three years later, we are fighting Boots Ennis for unification and the Ring magazine Championship. Not every day is the best day, but we’re going to do the same on April 12. We will come out victorious.” 

RAYMOND FORD

“No pressure, this is what I do. I like “Gunna Man” (Mattice). Unfortunately for him he’s outgunned and I’m going to show that, he signed up for it and I’m sorry it has to be him, it’s the boxing business.” 

“I’m always confident, we can’t say it’s not going to be easy. I might get in there and clip him early. I’m always gonna try to make a statement as I’m trying to get these world champions to fight me so hopefully after this fight we can get one.”

THOMAS MATTICE

“I can take any challenge. I tip my hat off to Ray because we get a lot of calls and people don’t take the challenge. Everything is against Ray, the pressure is on him as I have everything to gain and he has everything to lose. I came to get the job done, I never fought for a check in my whole career. Anytime my phone rings, it’s a yes to whoever calls. Two weeks before that, they called me for Shakur Stevenson, and it was a yes. I’m with whatever and I’m ready to put on a show.

“Ray is nice. I can’t take anything from him. There’s no bad blood. The fans are going to win on Saturday night. I’m a great fighter and he’s a great fighter so I appreciate the opportunity and I’m here to capitalize on it. Anyone in the arena or watching, my advice is don’t blink.”

OMARI JONES

“Absolutely, I’m ready. Especially coming off my debut in Orlando [and] like you said, it was a sold out crowd and I was built for moments like this. I’m moving on to my second pro fight and I’m ready to put on another great performance here in Atlantic City against another big crowd. So, I’m ready for these moments. 

“Absolutely, every time out, that’s what me and my team, we established with [Matchroom] and we also said we want to stay busy from the first time we sat down and met. So these kinds of opponents are what we want and what I’m ready for.”

“That’s always been something that’s been with me through my parents and mentors. I always want to inspire the youth. If they see me do it, they’ll believe they can do it. The kids were really excited to see the medal. They left with some inspiration. If they don’t leave with anything else, I hope they leave with that.”

WILLIAM JACKSON

“[Omari] is in for a handful. I don’t really have much to say. I’m just ready to show my talent.”

SHAKHRAM GIYASOV

“I’m always ready, I’m happy to be here, I’m happy I have my fight. It’s one step towards my goal. My goal is to become world champion.”

“I have my motivation. I have my skills. I’m ready for all my career. My goal is to be World Champion. Step by step, I’m coming for my goal. I’m training, I’m trying. I’m here to be a world champion. It doesn’t matter who my opponent is, I’m going towards my goal.” 

FRANCO OCAMPO

“On Saturday, we’re coming to win this fight. More than anything, we’re here to show that Argentinians have balls.”

ZAQUIN MOSES

“I’m ready to shine and show my skills. I’m ready to do my job. I do feel like I’m one of the best prospects in boxing. I don’t want to disrespect anybody, or any prospect up here but I do feel I’m the best and I can’t wait to show it on Saturday.” 

“I’m getting more comfortable, more relaxed, it’s a process, and I’m enjoying it right now. I’m having fun. I like shining and on Saturday night I can’t wait to show it.”

ARTURO CARDENAS

“We were ready for Carto, but that fight didn’t materialize because of a few details. But regardless of the opponent, we are ready for whatever opponent comes that way, and we hope that the folks of New Jersey enjoy the fights on Saturday and the way that I box. We’ll be back again soon.” 

TAHMIR SMALLS

“I’m ready to get it on. I’m ready to show the world my talent. I’m ready to take over the 147 division. 

“I appreciate the opportunity, now it’s time to show the world what I’m made of.”

FRANCISCO RODRIGUEZ

“I clock in everyday here [Caesars Palace], but right after I’m right back at work, training and mixing it up. Always mixing it up. Even at night, I go to the Atlantic City boardwalk, I see the flyer, and it motivates me more. I’m putting in the miles. AC boardwalk every night. 

“I feel blessed and I take being on this amazing card with great champions seriously. I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis and Eimantas Stanionis came face-to-face for the first time in fight week today as they draw closer to their blockbuster unification battle for the IBF, WBA and Ring Magazine World Welterweight titles at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City on Saturday April 12, live worldwide on DAZN.

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Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis and Eimantas Stanionis came face-to-face for the first time in fight week today as they draw closer to their blockbuster unification battle for the IBF, WBA and Ring Magazine World Welterweight titles at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City on Saturday April 12, live worldwide on DAZN.

Ennis (33-0 29 KOs) puts his IBF strap on the line for the third time in his third fight under Eddie Hearn and Matchroom, with his previous defenses seeing the Philadelphia star thrill his hometown fans at Wells Fargo Center, first by forcing David Avanesyan to retire after five rounds of his first defense in July and then outpointing mandatory challenger Karen Chukhadzhian in November.

Stanionis (15-0 9 KOs) made a welcome return to the ring in April with victory over Gabriel Maestre in Las Vegas in May, outpointing the Venezuelan in Las Vegas to retain the WBA regular title that he won back in April 2022 in Texas against Radzhab Butaev. The 30 year old, who represented Lithuania in the 2016 Olympic Games, was elevated to full champion in August when Terence Crawford vacated the WBA belt.

Both Ennis and Stanionis have been searching for unification bouts since landing their titles, and now the pair clash with the Ring Magazine title also on the line at a venue that has hosted the very best fighters on the planet.

Boots and Stanionis clash on a huge night of action in Atlantic City, where Raymond Ford continues his pursuit to becoming a two-time, two-weight World champion as he faces Thomas Mattice for the WBA Continental North America Super-Featherweight title.
 
Ford (16-1-1 8 KOs) fights at 130lbs for the second time after moving up from Featherweight in November and routing Orlando Gonzalez over ten rounds in Philadelphia. ‘Savage’ won the WBA World title at 126lbs with a stunning last gasp KO win over Otabek Kholmatov in March in Verona, NY and was edged out in his first defense by a razor-thin split decision reversal against Nick Ball in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in June.

Ford sits pretty in the rankings across all the governing bodies and will be eyeing that second World title shot in the back end of the year, but Mattice will see that as a carrot dangled for him, and ‘Gunna Man’ will relish the chance to upset Ford’s plans.

Arturo Cardenas defends his WBC Continental Americas Super-Bantamweight title against Christian Carto, Team USA’s Olympic bronze medal man Omari Jones fights for the second time in the paid ranks against William Jackson over six rounds at Welterweight, Shakhram Giyasov will open the show live on DAZN over ten rounds against Franco Ocampo as the Uzbek man waits for his shot at a World title, while the Before The Bell action sees three young tri-state talents in action as Atlantic City’s Francisco Rodriguez takes on Camden, New Jersey’s Naheem Parker over eight rounds at Lightweight, Philadelphia’s Tahmir Smalls takes on Washington DC’s Bermudan Earl Bascome over eight rounds at Welterweight and Newark, New Jersey’s Zaquin Moses takes on Alex Palette over four rounds at Super-Featherweight.

Eimantas Stanionis has promised to take Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis into the deepest waters he’s ever been to – and the WBA ruler believes he’ll ‘break and beat’ the IBF champion to rule the Welterweight division when they clash in a unification blockbuster on Saturday night at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, live worldwide on DAZN.

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Stanionis (15-0 9 KOs) made a welcome return to the ring in April with victory over Gabriel Maestre in Las Vegas in May, outpointing the Venezuelan in Las Vegas to retain the WBA regular title that he won back in April 2022 in Texas against Radzhab Butaev. The 30 year old, who represented Lithuania in the 2016 Olympic Games, was elevated to full champion in August when Terence Crawford vacated the WBA belt.

Both Ennis and Stanionis have been searching for unification bouts since landing their titles, and with the Ring Magazine title also on the line at a venue that has hosted the very best fighters on the planet, Stanionis has been working tirelessly at the famous Wild Card gym to make sure he is at his very best on the biggest night of his career.

“Camp at Wild Card has been a warzone—exactly how I like it,” said Stanionis. “With Coach Marvin Somodio, we’ve been grinding non-stop. The sparring partners we worked with are monsters, they pushed me to the edge. Speed, defense, pressure—we’ve dialed in every weapon in I posses. Every day I walk into that gym, I treat it like a fight. I’m locked in, and hungry. This is the best version of me the world’s ever seen.

“Ennis is slick, explosive, and they say he’s the future of the division. That’s why I signed the contract. I don’t duck anyone—I run toward the fire. This isn’t gonna be a chess match. This is going to be a war. I’m stepping into that ring to test him, break him, and beat him. Let’s see how he handles real pressure. 

“Beating Boots changes everything for me. It puts me on the throne of the Welterweight division and kicks the door open to pound-for-pound greatness. But this isn’t just about belts—this is about legacy. I fight to carve my name into the history books.

“Every time I fight, I fight with Lithuania on my back. My people know struggle, they know toughness—and I carry that spirit into the ring. When I win, they win. This moment isn’t just for me—it’s for every single person back home who believes in the warrior I’ve become.”

Boots and Stanionis clash on a huge night of action in Atlantic City, where Raymond Ford continues his pursuit to becoming a two-time, two-weight World champion as he faces Thomas Mattice for the WBA Continental North America Super-Featherweight title.
 
Ford (16-1-1 8 KOs) fights at 130lbs for the second time after moving up from Featherweight in November and routing Orlando Gonzalez over ten rounds in Philadelphia. ‘Savage’ won the WBA World title at 126lbs with a stunning last gasp KO win over Otabek Kholmatov in March in Verona, NY and was edged out in his first defense by a razor-thin split decision reversal against Nick Ball in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in June.

Ford sits pretty in the rankings across all the governing bodies and will be eyeing that second World title shot in the back end of the year, but Mattice will see that as a carrot dangled for him, and ‘Gunna Man’ will relish the chance to upset Ford’s plans.

Arturo Cardenas defends his WBC Continental Americas Super-Bantamweight title against Christian Carto, Team USA’s Olympic bronze medal man Omari Jones fights for the second time in the paid ranks against William Jackson over six rounds at Welterweight, Shakhram Giyasov will open the show live on DAZN over ten rounds against Franco Ocampo as the Uzbek man waits for his shot at a World title, while the Before The Bell action sees three young tri-state talents in action as Atlantic City’s Francisco Rodriguez takes on Camden, New Jersey’s Naheem Parker over eight rounds at Lightweight, Philadelphia’s Tahmir Smalls takes on Washington DC’s Bermudan Earl Bascome over eight rounds at Welterweight and Newark, New Jersey’s Zaquin Moses takes on Alex Palette over four rounds at Super-Featherweight.

Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis says he’s completely focused on the biggest fight of his career to date as he meets fellow World champion Eimantas Stanionis in a blockbuster Welterweight unification battle on Saturday night at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, live worldwide on DAZN.

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Ennis (33-0 29 KOs) has been itching to land a unification clash at 147lbs and the IBF ruler can take the first step towards his dream of being the undisputed Welterweight king by ripping the WBA strap from Stanionis (15-0 9 KOs) and adding the Ring Magazine title in the process.

‘Boots’ fights under the Matchroom banner for the third time since signing with promoter Eddie Hearn, with defenses against David Avanesyan and Karen Chukhadzhian laying the foundation for what promises to be an epic showdown with the talented Lithuanian.

The 27 year old has long stated that he wants to collect all the belts at Welterweight before moving to 154lbs, but the Philadelphia star is blocking out talk of taking on the rest of the champions to achieve that goal and focusing on what he knows is a tough night’s work on the famed boardwalk.

“I’m here to collect all the belts, and I’m locked in on Stanionis,” said Ennis. “Win on Saturday and I’m the WBA, IBF and Ring Magazine champion, and then we’ll see what’s next. But I am zoned in on Stanionis, no doubt, and I’m ready to give everybody what they are asking for. It’s a big fight for him and I’m glad he’s taken the fight and given the fans what they want. I’m number one in the division, he’s number two, I’m dialed in, I’m so focused on this.
 
“I’m here to do one thing and that’s put hands on you, that’s it. I’m not trying to talk or go back and forth on the internet. I know that fighters are trying to hype the fight, but when it’s already sold, you don’t need to do it. Everybody is different though.
 
“I’m at the point right now where I don’t care what people say because it seems that no matter what I do; if I pitch a shut out – ‘oh you should have knocked him out’. If I KO someone, ‘oh we don’t know if he has a gas tank’. I do what’s best for me and I’m locked in on me, I don’t care what other people have to say, and I’m not worried about any other fight but this one.
 
“The fans want to see a little bit of everything, and I feel I give them that, but I can’t worry about what people say, and if it is negative, then that’s just motivation to shut them up.
 
“The Chukhadzhian fight was hard because I’ve already beaten the guy 12-0 and we’re forced into fighting him to keep the IBF belt, so at the end of the day you have to do what you have to do. I took care of the mandatory and I’m glad I had the fight with him, it’s made me be a lot smarter in this camp and I’m just ready and I’m so excited for this fight, I will show out for sure.”
 
Boots and Stanionis clash on a huge night of action in Atlantic City, where Raymond Ford continues his pursuit to becoming a two-time, two-weight World champion as he faces Thomas Mattice for the WBA Continental North America Super-Featherweight title.
 
Ford (16-1-1 8 KOs) fights at 130lbs for the second time after moving up from Featherweight in November and routing Orlando Gonzalez over ten rounds in Philadelphia. ‘Savage’ won the WBA World title at 126lbs with a stunning last gasp KO win over Otabek Kholmatov in March in Verona, NY and was edged out in his first defense by a razor-thin split decision reversal against Nick Ball in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in June.

Ford sits pretty in the rankings across all the governing bodies and will be eyeing that second World title shot in the back end of the year, but Mattice will see that as a carrot dangled for him, and ‘Gunna Man’ will relish the chance to upset Ford’s plans.

Arturo Cardenas defends his WBC Continental Americas Super-Bantamweight title against Christian Carto, Team USA’s Olympic bronze medal man Omari Jones fights for the second time in the paid ranks against William Jackson over six rounds at Welterweight, Shakhram Giyasov will open the show live on DAZN over ten rounds against Franco Ocampo as the Uzbek man waits for his shot at a World title, while the Before The Bell action sees three young tri-state talents in action as Atlantic City’s Francisco Rodriguez takes on Camden, New Jersey’s Naheem Parker over eight rounds at Lightweight, Philadelphia’s Tahmir Smalls takes on Washington DC’s Bermudan Earl Bascome over eight rounds at Welterweight and Newark, New Jersey’s Zaquin Moses takes on Alex Palette over four rounds at Super-Featherweight.

LOS ANGELES, CA (March 10, 2025) – Reigning WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis (15-0, 9 KOs), has recently kicked off his training camp at the legendary Wild Card Boxing Gym in Los Angeles, CA, under the guidance of coach Marvin Somodio. The Lithuanian champion is preparing for the biggest fight of his career—an explosive welterweight unification showdown against unbeaten IBF Champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis (33-0, 29 KOs) on April 12 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J. The high-stakes battle will be broadcast live on DAZN in an event promoted by Matchroom Boxing in association with TGB Promotions.

After arriving in Los Angeles two weeks ago, Stanionis has quickly adjusted to the change in time zone and climate, settling into his intense training regimen. The harmony with Coach Somodio has been a blessing to Stanionis and his mindset.

“I feel great,” said Stanionis. “Since arriving in LA a couple of weeks ago, I’ve gotten used to the time change and weather. Even though I hadn’t fought in a while, Marvin and I picked up right where we left off. We work well together, and we’re making all the right changes to be in top shape. Training has been going really well, and I’m focused and ready for this fight.”

Many boxing experts consider Ennis the favorite in this fight, labeling him the most feared man in the welterweight division. However, Stanionis embraces the challenge with confidence and thrives under the pressure.

“Many people think Ennis will win, but I am here to surprise everyone,” said Stanionis. “I have worked my whole career for this fight, and on April 12, I will give everything to win these titles and show I am the best welterweight in the world.”

# # #

For more information, follow Eimantas Stanionis on social media:

Instagram: @eimantasstanionis

Twitter: @E_Stanionis

Kaunas, Lithuania (February 13, 2025) – WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis (15-0, 9 KOs) is entering the final days of his training camp in his hometown of Kaunas, Lithuania, before heading to the United States to complete preparations for his highly anticipated showdown against Jaron “Boots” Ennis (33-0, 29 KOs). The two elite welterweights will battle for the IBF, WBA, and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on April 12 at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J., live on DAZN.

Before departing for the United States, Stanionis, who fights under the TGB Promotions banner, has been training alongside his stablemates and mentoring young teens at the local after school program for troubled teens, an experience that has fueled his motivation for this career-defining moment.

“Spending these last days training at home with my gym mates and mentoring the young kids at the local afterschool program means everything to me,” said Stanionis. “I remember growing up with friends that were struggling, so I feel it’s my duty to help these kids out as best I can. Now, I’m here, and I want to show them that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.”

As the first Lithuanian-born world champion in boxing history, Stanionis is proud to represent his country on one of the sport’s biggest stages and hopes to bring home another major victory for his homeland.

“Every time I step into the ring, I carry Lithuania with me,” Stanionis continued. “This fight isn’t just about me—it’s about my country, my people, and the next generation of Lithuanian fighters. I fight with pride, and on April 12, I plan to make history once again.”

A win over Ennis would establish Stanionis as one of the premier forces in the welterweight division and catapult him into global superstardom.

“This is the biggest fight of my career, and a victory over Ennis will put my name alongside the best in the world,” Stanionis stated. “He’s a great fighter, but I’m coming to prove that I belong at the very top. This is my moment, and I won’t let it slip away.”

With his time in Lithuania coming to an end, Stanionis is looking forward to beginning the final phase of his camp in Los Angeles, where he will fine-tune his skills at the legendary Wild Card Boxing gym with coach Marvin Somodio ahead of the biggest fight of his career.

“Training in Los Angeles at Wild Card, with coach Marvin, will be the perfect way to sharpen everything up before the fight. The work I put in there, the elite sparring, will make sure I’m 100% ready to go on April 12,” he concluded. “I’m excited, focused, and prepared to leave everything in the ring.”

# # #

For more information, follow Eimantas Stanionis on social media:

Instagram: @eimantasstanionis

Twitter: @E_Stanionis

Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis and Eimantas Stanionis will clash in a blockbuster unification battle for the IBF, WBA and Ring Magazine World Welterweight titles at the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City on Saturday April 12, live worldwide on DAZN.

Ennis (33-0 29 KOs) puts his IBF strap on the line for the third time in his third fight under Eddie Hearn and Matchroom, with his previous defenses seeing the Philadelphia star thrill his hometown fans at Wells Fargo Center, first by forcing David Avanesyan to retire after five rounds of his first defense in July and then outpointing mandatory challenger Karen Chukhadzhian in November.

Stanionis (15-0 9 KOs) made a welcome return to the ring in April with victory over Gabriel Maestre in Las Vegas in May, outpointing the Venezuelan in Las Vegas to retain the WBA regular title that he won back in April 2022 in Texas against Radzhab Butaev. The 30 year old, who represented Lithuania in the 2016 Olympic Games, was elevated to full champion in August when Terence Crawford vacated the WBA belt.

Both Ennis and Stanionis have been searching for unification bouts since landing their titles, and now the pair clash with the Ring Magazine title also on the line at a venue that has hosted the very best fighters on the planet.

“This is the fight I’ve been waiting for,” said Ennis. “I believe I was made for moments like this and on April 12 I will be making a big statement and you will see the very best of me.  It’s time to shine, be great and collect those belts.”

“This is it—the moment I’ve been envisioning my entire life!” Said Stanionis. “Every sacrifice, every ounce of sweat, it’s all been for this fight. Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis is a great fighter, but I’m ready to take him down. On April 12 in Atlantic City, I’ll show the world what I’m made of. This unification bout is my chance to prove I’m the king of the Welterweight division, and there’s no way I’m letting this opportunity slip away. This moment is mine!”

“This is a simply brilliant fight,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “When we signed Boots, I said to him that we would deliver unifications for him, so it is great to get this over the line for Jaron, and I know that with the biggest fight of his career right in front of him, he is going to shine brighter than ever.

“Eimantas is a brilliant fighter, and this is without doubt the #1 and #2 in the division, and I could not wish for a better fight to promote our first event in the storied Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City.”

Announcements on the undercard and ticket on-sale dates will be made soon.

About Visit Atlantic City

Visit Atlantic City is a 501(c)(6) organization formed and funded as a public-private partnership by the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) to create economic development through conventions, sporting events, film production and group tourism. Visit Atlantic City focuses on three primary objectives: sales, marketing and services.

For complete Atlantic City tourism and convention information, visit www.visitatlanticcity.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About the Atlantic City Sports Commission

The Atlantic City Sports Commission was officially formed on January 13, 2015 as a 501 (c)(3) organization with the support of Visit Atlantic City and the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) to attract sporting events, conventions and competitions to Atlantic City.
For more information, visit www.atlanticcitysports.org. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About OVG

OVG is a full-service venue management and hospitality company that helps client-partners reimagine the sports, live entertainment, and convention industries for the betterment of the venue, employees, artists, athletes, and surrounding communities. With a portfolio of more than 200 client-partners spanning arenas, stadiums, convention centers, performing arts centers, cultural institutions, and state fairs around the globe, OVG provides a set of services, resources and expertise designed to elevate every aspect of business that matters to venue operators. Service-oriented and driven by social responsibility, OVG helps facilities drive value through excellence and innovation in food services, booking and content development, sustainable operations, public health, and public safety and more.

LOS ANGELES, CA (January 2, 2024) – Reigning undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion, Eimantas Stanionis (15-0, 9 KOs), has declared his desire to unify the welterweight division. The Lithuanian powerhouse has instructed his team to prioritize unification bouts with the other titleholders in the division before considering any other challenges.

“I’ve worked my whole life to become a world champion, but my goal doesn’t stop here,” said Stanionis. “I want to unify the division and prove I am the best welterweight in the world. No more excuses, let’s get these unifications done, I’m ready to whoever steps up first.”

On Fighting WBC Champion Mario Barrios

Stanionis sees a clash with WBC champion Mario Barrios as a pivotal step toward his unification goals.

“Mario Barrios is a strong champion who brings toughness and heart into the ring,” said Stanionis. “A fight between us would be explosive. I respect what he’s done in the sport, but I believe my skill and determination will make the difference. Let’s give the fans a war they’ll never forget.”

On Fighting WBO Champion Brian Norman Jr.

Stanionis is equally eager to face the rising star and newly crowned WBO champion Brian Norman Jr.

“Brian Norman Jr. has proven he belongs at the top, and he’s only getting better,” Stanionis commented. “I know he’s hungry to show the world what he’s capable of. This fight would be a high stakes battle between two fighters who refuse to back down. I’m ready to put my belt on the line to make it happen.”

On Fighting IBF Champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis

Arguably the most anticipated showdown would be against the IBF champion, Jaron “Boots” Ennis, whose blend of power and speed has electrified the division.

“Boots Ennis is one of the most dangerous fighters in boxing today,” said Stanionis. “He’s fast, powerful, and skilled, but I believe in myself and my ability to outlast anyone in the ring. The fans have been asking for this fight, and I want to make it a reality. Unification fights like this define legacies.”

Stanionis’s bold ambitions have energized the boxing community, as fans eagerly await what could be a historic series of bouts. With his relentless determination, unshakable toughness, and unstoppable drive, Stanionis is ready to make his mark in boxing history.

“The welterweight division is one of the most exciting in boxing, and I want to be the fighter who unites it,” Stanionis concluded. “To all the champions out there—let’s make these fights happen. No excuses. The time is now.”

KAUNAS, LITHUANIA (December 13, 2024) – Reigning, undefeated WBA welterweight champion Eimantas Stanionis (15-0, 9 KOs) is poised for a monumental 2025 as he aims to defend his title multiple times and unify the welterweight division. Known for his relentless, fan-friendly fighting style, Stanionis has become one of the most feared champions in boxing, yet his name often goes unmentioned in discussions about the sport’s elite.

With an aggressive, throwback style that has endeared him to boxing fans worldwide, Stanionis remains focused on proving he’s the best in the division. As he continues to train daily in his hometown of Kaunas, Lithuania, he awaits a significant fight announcement that could set the tone for his career-defining year.

“I’m ready to make 2025 the biggest year of my career,” said Stanionis, who fights under the Premier Boxing Champions banner. “My goal is to defend my WBA title at least three times and unify with all the other world champions. I want to prove I’m the best in the division, and I’m willing to face anyone to make that happen. Every day, I’m putting in the work here in Lithuania. The cold weather and tough conditions keep me sharp and focused. I’m preparing for a big fight announcement, and when the time comes, I’ll be ready to put on a show for the fans.”

Stanionis’ relentless pursuit of greatness and his willingness to take on all comers make him a compelling figure in boxing. Fans can expect fireworks everytime he steps in the ring as he looks to unify the welterweight division and solidify his legacy in 2025.

“Becoming a pound-for-pound world champion is my ultimate goal,” concluded Stanionis. “I’m doing everything possible to make that a reality, from intense training to perfecting my craft. 2025 will be the year I take my place among the best fighters in the world.”

The teams of Eimantas Stanionis and Shakhram Giyasov informed the World Boxing Association (WBA) Championships Committee that they reached an agreement to make the mandatory fight and the bidding that was scheduled for this afternoon was officially suspended. 

The pioneer body had scheduled the purse bid after not having received a response from the parties involved, but within hours of taking place, they informed that the agreement is ahead of schedule.

The contracts and details about the fight between Stanionis, welterweight champion, and Giyasov, mandatory challenger, will be sent in due time to the committee with the confirmation of the date, venue and other related elements.

LAS VEGAS–The face of Mexican boxing has aged.

But it hasn’t changed.

It’s still Canelo, now bearded, yet still proud and stubborn That inexhaustible streak of stubborn pride was there, a force that withstood a younger man’s challenge throughout 12 rounds Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena.

Canelo Alvarez won it, scoring a unanimous decision over fellow Mexican Jaime Munguia.

“It means a lot,’’ Canelo (61-2-2, 3 KOs) said moments after the 117-110, 116-111, 115-112 scores were announced. ‘’I like this guy a lot. He is gentleman.”

But, he went on to say: “I’m the best. I’m the best fighter right now.’’

He might get an argument from Terence Crawford or Naoya Inoue. David Benavidez, who was in the T-Mobile crowd, might want a chance to prove him wrong. But on this night, there was no argument, especially from the 27-year-old Munguia (43-1, 34 KOs).

In the fourth, Canelo began to exert control. The spring in Munguia’s opening step was gone. He dropped his left hand.

Canelo saw it and capitalized with predatory instinct. He landed a wicked uppercut, followed by a body shot. Suddenly, Munguia was down on the canvas, his eyes empty of an earlier confidence.

For the next couple of rounds, Canelo ruled, patiently and thoroughly. By then, Munguia knew there was still power in the older man’s hands. He was wary. He was smart.

He knew what he had seen in Canelo’s last several fights. He had studied the video. Munguia would wait until the seventh to re-assert himself in an effort to test the theory that Canelo tires in the second half of fights.

In the opening moments of the seventh, Munguia backed Canelo up and into his corner.

But Canelo didn’t stay there. He stepped forward and broke through Munguia’s up-raised gloves with punches accented by deadly power.

It was a pivotal moment, a sure sign that Canelo was there to go the distance. He stood his ground in the eighth, the ninth and the 10th. He took punches. Landed punches.

“I took my time,”

Canelo said. “I have a lot of experience. Munguia is a great fighter. He’s strong and smart. But I have 12 rounds to win the fight and I did. I did really good, and I’m proud of it.

“He’s strong, but he’s a little slow. I could see every punch. That’s why I’m the best.”

At times, it looked like a standoff. But Canelo went into the final two rounds with a key edge. He had that fourth-round knockdown in the bank and he would fight to protect it with experience, tactical knowhow and stamina not often seen in the super-middleweight champion over the last couple of years.

In the first round, Munguia’s length and quick hands seemed to surprise Canelo.

On young legs, Munguia moved side to side, again seemingly surprising Canelo with his athleticism.

In the second, a wary Canelo began to look for a way to slow down Munguia. He landed a couple of warning shots, first a body blow and then a quick combo.

But Munguia, looking like a tireless kid on the playgrounds, responded by bouncing on his toes and firing straight shots at a backpedaling Canelo.

“I came out strong and was winning the early rounds,” Munguia said. “I let my hands go, but he’s a fighter with a lot of experience. The loss hurts because it’s my first loss and I felt strong.” 

The announced crowd of more than 17,000 was divided. For some, the young Munguia has a working-class appeal no longer there in the wealthy, celebrated Canelo.

Munguia’s entrance was cheered by folks in cheaper seats in T-Mobile’s upper deck.

Then, there was Canelo, cheered by folks in expensive seats on the floor and in the lower bowl.

At opening bell, the arena was a clash of chants.

First, Munguia, Munguia.

Then, Canelo, Canelo.

In the end, there was only Canelo.

Still Canelo.

Marios Barrios wins unanimous decision

Mario Barrios, a junior-welterweight champion and an emerging welterweight, scored a knockdown, but not a knockout out of a name synonymous with resilience.

Fabian Maidana is not as well-known as his brother, Marcos Maidana.

But the name sticks around mostly because the brothers know how to. Marcos did it against Floyd Mayweather Jr. Fabian did it against a bigger, stronger Barrios in a. fight for an interim 147-pound title in the last boutt before the Canelo Alvarez-Jaime Munguia main event at T-Mobile Arena Saturday night.

Barrios (29-2, 18 KOs), of San Antonio, put Fabian (22-3, 16 KOs), of Argentina, on

to the canvas with a straight right hand in the second round. Then, it looked as if the end was near. But it was not. Fabian kept coming back, kept rocking Barrios’ head with piston-like pouches that started with an accurate jab. By the end of the 12-round bout, Barrios’ right eye was an ugly welt, swollen shut

Barrios had trouble seeing.  But not winning. On the judges cards, it was unanimous, 116-111 on all three, for Barrios. He won, but not as easily as expected because of another Maidana

Figueroa knocks out Magdaleno

Jessie Magdaleno had no chance at winning the title. Turns out, he didn’t have much of a chance against Brandon Figueroa either.

Magdaleno (29-3, 18 KOs), who forfeited his eligibility for a World Boxing Council’s interim belt when he failed to make weight, was simply no match for the busier, stronger Figueroa (25-1-1, 19 KOs), of Weslaco TX.

In the opening rounds of the featherweight bout on the Canelo-Munguia card, Magdaleno tried to smother Figueroa. Instead, he often smothered any potential excitement. In the fifth, however, Figueroa delivered a low blow, a painful uppercut. Magdaleno fell. He was on hands and knees. His face was flat on the canvas. He was in evident pain. Somehow, he recovered, but not enough to give him a shot at victory.

In the ninth, Figueroa finished him, first with a sweeping right hook and then body shot. At 2:59 of the round. referee Allen Huggins counted Magdaleno out.

Stanionis retains welterweight title

Eimantas Stanionis, cool and efficient throughout 12 rounds, controlled pace, distance and — in the end — the World Boxing Association’s welterweight title.

In only his first title defense, Stanionis (15-0, 9 KOS) fought with the authority of a longtime champion, leaving challenger Gabriel Maestre (6-1-1, 5 KOs) few opportunities in a one-sided display of patience and tactical skill. 

Maestre, of Venezuela, was never off his feet. But he never had much of a chance either, losing a unanimous decision to the unbeaten Lithuanian on the Canelo-Munguia card.

Jesus Ramos back with a knockout

It was the right way to end a comeback.

Jesus Ramos (21-1, 17 KOs), a junior-middleweight prospect from Casa Grande AZ,  punctuated his  with a stoppage, a technical knockout of a tough Venezuelan, Johan Gonzalez (34-3, 33 KOs) Saturday on the card featuring Canelo Alvarez-Jaime Munguia at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena.

Ramos, fighting for the first since his lone loss — a controversial decision to Erickson Lubin in September, began to take control of the fight in the fifth. He was moving forward, stubbornly forward, with powerful shots that drove Gonzalez into the ropes. In the sixth, however, a head butt left Ramos with a nasty cut over his left eye. 

The bloody gash seemed to take away much of Ramos’ momentum. But he regained it with heavy-handed shots delivered from a crouch.. His hands were down. 

But the power was deadly. In the ninth, it finished Gonzalez, first with a left-handed counter that put him on his back. Then there was a succession of blows, including a big right hand that knocked Gonzalez again. At 2:56 of the ninth, it was over, Ramos a TKO winner and and presumably on his way back to being a young fighter with championship potential  

BELOW BOUTS BY MARC ABRAMS

World-ranked junior middleweight Vito Mielnicki Jr. hammered out a 10-round unanimous decision over Ronald Cruz.

At the end of round three, Mielnicki dropped Cruz with a left hook just as the bell sounded. Mielnicku dumped him again with the same punch just before round four concluded.

Mielnicki landed 187 of 605 punches. Cruz was 143 of 460.

Mielnicki, 153.6 lbs of Roseland, NJ won by scores of 99-89, 98-90 and 96-92 and is now 18-1. Cruz, 153.2 lbs of Los Angeles is 19-4-2.

Alan David Picasso remained undefeated by stopping former world title challenger Damien Vazquez in round five of their 10-round super bantamweight bout.

Picasso, 121 lbs of Mexico City is now 28-0-1 with 16 knockouts. Vazquez, 122.2 lbs of Las Vegas is 17-4-1.

William Scrull scored a knockdown en-route to an eight-round unanimous decision over Sean Hemphill in a super middleweight bout.

Scrull dropped Hemphill in round five in the fight which eventually led to scores of 79-72, 78-73 and 76-75.

Scrull, 167.2 lbs of Matanzas, CUB is now 22-0. Hemphill, 167.4 lbs of New Orleans is now 16-2.

Lawrence King won a six-round unanimous decision over Anthony Holloway in a light heavyweight contest.

King, 181.2 lbs of San Bernadino, CA won by scores of 59-55 on all cards and is now 16-1. Holloway, 177.4 lbs of Peoria, IL is 7-4-3.

Adrian Torres won a six-round unanimous decision over Arsen Poghosyan in a lightweight bout.

Torres, 136.6 lbs of Tijuana, MEX won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 8-0. Poghosyan, 126.2 lbs of Yerevan, ARM is 3-2-1.

Julian Bridges won a six-round unanimous decision over Jabin Chollet in a battle of undefeated super lightweights

Bridges, 138.4 lbs of Antioch, CA won by scores of 59-55 on all cards and is now 5-0. Chollet, 139.8 lbs of San Diego is 9-1.

LAS VEGAS – May 2, 2024 – Fighters competing on the undercard for the much anticipated Canelo vs. Munguia went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Featured during the press conference were former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, who duel for Barrios’ Interim WBC Welterweight Title in the co-main event, former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno, who meet for Figueroa’s Interim WBC Featherweight Title, and WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis and unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who battle in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

The workout also featured fighters competing on PBC on Prime Video action preceding the pay-per-view, including hard-hitting contender Jesus Ramos and Johan Gonzalez, who meet in a 10-round bout, and rising contender Vito Mielnicki Jr. and Ronald Cruz, who battle opening the live stream at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

MARIO BARRIOS

“This has been a great camp and I’m excited that Saturday is almost here. Respect to Fabian for taking this fight. I know he’s coming with a lot to prove, but I’m going to do whatever it takes to come out with my hand raised.

“The move here to training in Las Vegas has been great for my career. My team and I have continued to add on to what already got me this far in my career and it’s shown in the ring.

“I know Maidana has come a long way. I have no doubt he’s gonna bring the fight. I’m going in there to represent my Mexican and indigenous roots like I always do. I have no doubt the boxing fans will be happy with what they see.

“I have to go out there on Saturday and not only win, but win in grand fashion. Whether it’s by knockout or by controlling the fight, I’m coming with bad intentions like always.

“The welterweight division is stacked. Stanionis and Maestre are both great fighters who I want to face. But I have to get this win to be in those exciting fights.”

FABIAN MAIDANA

“I’m inviting everyone to witness what’s going to be a great battle between me and Mario Barrios on Saturday night. Tune in, because it’s going to be an awesome fight.

“I’ve come here to show what I’m made of. I’m here to take the belt away from Mario and bring it back to Argentina. It’s going to be a great battle.

“My style will be the same that it’s always been. I’m gonna stay true to who I am and adjust to what Mario does. The bottom line is that I’m walking away with that belt. I don’t know how it ends, but I’m going to win this fight.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m very honored to be here. I’m always happy to represent my flag and my roots. I can’t wait for Saturday night. I know that everyone up here can’t wait to let their hands go.

“It feels amazing to fight guys like Jessie who are decorated and accomplished. I’ve always wanted to fight the best and here I am on one of the biggest stages of the year. It’s a great opportunity.

“I want to go out there and keep doing my thing. I love fighting and I love everything about this sport. I can’t wait to go in there and put it all together.

“I’m an action-packed fighter. Stacked cards like this with all-action are great for boxing. I’m a fan-friendly fighter and I love putting on a show. I want to make sure that the fans go home satisfied with this beautiful violence.

“This fight ends with everyone winning. It’s a stacked card with Mexicans vs. Mexicans and me and Jessie are ready to put on a show. I can feel the energy from everyone up here. The Mexican fans are electric and I can’t wait to give them a great show.”

JESSIE MAGDALENO

“I’m very excited for this fight. It’s gonna be a fireworks fight on Saturday night. I’m ready to get the show on the road.

“I know I come to put on a show. I always bring it no matter what. I give the fight fans what they want. I look at this as just being the beginning for me.

“A win on Saturday will be something great. We trained tremendously hard for this fight. We’re ready to get in there. It’s going to be an amazing fight for everyone. This is huge for me.

“The fans are gonna be happy. We both come to bring it. May the best man win. It’s gonna be a great fight.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“It’s been a very long time and I’m very happy to be here fighting in Las Vegas. I’m from a small country and there are very few people who make it to this point from there. I’m very happy that my hard work has earned me this opportunity.

“I just want to be back in the ring. When I hear that bell, I’ll be the happiest man on the planet to be in the ring.

“I’ve been training the whole time I was out of the ring. I’ve stayed disciplined and stayed training all the time. I wanted to be ready as soon as the call came.

“I know he’s coming with everything. This fight is do or die for him, but it’s the same for me. Being on this card is a dream come true and I’m ready to do anything I can to keep my belt.

“I’m not overlooking Maestre, because he’s a tough fighter, but of course I want the winner of Barrios vs. Maidana. I want to be a throwback fighter and take on all challengers.

“I’m coming to bring fireworks. I’m prepared to deliver something special and I can’t wait to see everyone on Saturday.”

GABRIEL MAESTRE

“This is gonna be a war. I can’t wait to show everyone the fireworks that will be on display in the ring. It’s going to be a clash of two great fighters.

“I’m used to being the underdog. I was the underdog in both fights last year and you saw how those worked out.

“I don’t know how the fight will go, but I know it will be a battle. Mexican fans deserve a war, and that’s what we’ll give them. It’s going to be a spectacle to remember.

“We fought in the amateurs and I thought I should have gotten the decision. But now we’ve turned the page and are different fighters in the pros. It’s going to be a great fight no matter what.”

JESUS RAMOS

“I’m just excited to be back and prove that I am at the top of this division. I have a tough opponent, and that will make for a more exciting fight. That’s exactly what we want.

“I’ve learned a lot from my first defeat. It was controversial and that made it hard. But it’s made me hungrier and now I’m back to prove where I belong. It’s gonna show on Saturday night.

“Gonzalez has power, but I have power as well. I can also box and I have faith in those abilities. I’m going to use everything I have. I’m ready to go toe-to-toe and give the fans a great show as well. I’m not here to back down from anybody.

“I will get my hand raised by any and all means necessary.”

JOHAN GONZALEZ

“I’m very thankful to be here and I’m happy that my team got me in this fight. I’m very motivated to make Venezuela proud. You won’t want to miss it.

“To be a champion you have to fight the best, and Ramos is one of the best. I’m relying on the work my team has put in. We just have to stick to our strategy.

“I come ready for anything he brings. If I have to go to war, we’ll go to war. That’s what being a fighter is all about.”

VITO MIELNICKI JR.

“I’m blessed to be in the position I’m in. Tune-in Saturday night, because you don’t want to miss it. Expect a dominant performance and fireworks. I’m going to keep getting better each and every fight.

“I’ve been staying in the gym and staying locked in working with Ronnie Shields in Houston. I get amazing sparring and it’s helped get me to this moment.

“Being a part of these atmospheres over and over again allows me to have fun and absorb the moment. I’ve worked since I was seven-years-old to be in a position like this. Now it’s time to put on a show Saturday night.

“Just tune in and expect fireworks and a dominant performance. I have a great opponent in front of me, but we worked very hard to prepare for Cruz. I’m leaving the ring with my hand raised.”

RONALD CRUZ

“I’m extremely excited to be here. I know I’m facing a great fighter, but this is my time. I’m here to shock the world.

“I’ve trained really hard for the last two years getting ready to fight for the world title. Vito is in my way, and all respect to him, but we’re going to put on a show Saturday night.

“I like a challenge. A lot of fighters are afraid to take losses, but I’m not. We have to stop him on Saturday night. You’re going to see the game plan when you tune in. We’ve structured an entire camp to stop Vito and I’m excited to show what we have planned.”

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ABOUT CANELO VS. MUNGUIA

Canelo vs. Munguia will see Canelo Promotions present a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios will defend his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentine power-puncher Fabián “TNT” Maidana, while hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa puts his Interim WBC Featherweight Title on the line against former world champion Jessie Magdaleno in pay-per-view action. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT is undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis battling the unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre.

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

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

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

LAS VEGAS – May 1, 2024 – Fighters competing on the undercard for the much anticipated Canelo vs. Munguia event showed off their skills at a media workout Wednesday before Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Featured during the workout were former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, who duel for Barrios’ Interim WBC Welterweight Title in the co-main event, former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno, who meet for Figueroa’s Interim WBC Featherweight Title, and WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis and unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who battle in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT

The workout also featured fighters competing on PBC on Prime Video action preceding the pay-per-view, including hard-hitting contender Jesus Ramos, who battles Johan Gonzalez, and rising contender Vito Mielnicki Jr., who duels Ronald Cruz opening the live stream at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m very excited for Saturday. I’m ready to get through fight week and get into the ring. I just can’t wait to fight.

“I always go in there with bad intentions and motivated to show what kind of fighter I am. We worked so hard in the gym and I want to make it worth the effort on Saturday.

“The welterweight division is opening up and I want to be in the big fights. I have a guy in my way on Saturday and I have to take care of him first.

“Whoever comes out of Stanionis vs. Maestre with their hand raised is who I’m gonna want to fight. I want those belts.”

FABIAN MAIDANA

“It is a great honor to represent Argentina. I want to showcase what Latin American fighters can truly do in the ring.

“I consider myself a smart fighter. I’m going to measure my steps, think about what I have to do and be tactical. That’s the kind of fighter I am.

“I’m coming to win this fight for my country of Argentina and leave my name in the history books.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m coming to throw punches from all angles, deliver non-stop pressure and give fans an all-action fight. I know he’s coming to do the same. I can’t wait to showcase my skills.

“This is a big fight. I’m excited for this all-Mexican atmosphere. I can’t wait to get in there and give the fans a great show.

“I’m gonna show all my skills. Lefty, righty, boxing, brawling, just anything it takes to get the victory. I have to get the victory and make a statement.”

JESSIE MAGDALENO

“I’m just feeling amazing. I’ve been counting the days. I’m ready to get in there and shock the world.

“A win boosts my career and puts me back to where I’m supposed to be. We’re here to pull off the upset.

“I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve. I’m gonna dance right around him. He better be ready.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“It’s been a very long time and I’m very hungry. I’m just excited to hear the bell and fight my fight.

“It’s going to be an explosion in the middle of the ring. It’s going to be just like a Mexican-style war.”

GABRIEL MAESTRE

“I’m happy and very excited for fight night to come. I want the fight to be tonight. I’m coming to win the title and bring the belt back to Venezuela.

“It’s been a long time since me and Stanionis fought in the amateurs. I’m a more seasoned fighter and more prepared. I’m going to showcase all of that on Saturday night.

“I’m really blessed to be representing all of Latin America in this fight. I can’t wait to win this fight for the whole of Latin America.”

JESUS RAMOS

“It wasn’t easy dealing with my first loss, especially because it was controversial, but it’s part of the game. I just needed to stay strong mentally. I’m excited to bounce back.

“A win will help bring me back to the top of the division. It will put me back with the big fights at 154 pounds. I want to face the best and I want to prove that I’m ready for them.

VITO MIELNICKI JR.

“We had a great training camp down in Houston with Ronnie Shields. I’m really thankful to my team because they sacrifice a lot for me to do what I love every day.

“I’m getting better and better and growing physically, mentally and spiritually. A young fighter like me needs to show growth and that’s what we’re doing.

“It’s always an honor to be on a platform like this. I’m extremely blessed to be in the position I’m in.”

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ABOUT CANELO VS. MUNGUIA

Canelo vs. Munguia will see Canelo Promotions present a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios will defend his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentine power-puncher Fabián “TNT” Maidana, while hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa puts his Interim WBC Featherweight Title on the line against former world champion Jessie Magdaleno in pay-per-view action. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT is undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis battling the unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre.

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

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

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

LAS VEGAS – April 11, 2024 – Fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard for the much anticipated Canelo vs. Munguia event previewed their respective matchups during a virtual press conference Thursday before Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Featured during the virtual presser were former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Argentine power-puncher Fabian “TNT” Maidana, who duel for Barrios’ Interim WBC Welterweight Title in the co-main event, former world champions Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and Jessie Magdaleno, who meet for Figueroa’s Interim WBC Featherweight Title, and undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis and unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre, who square off in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

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

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

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m happy to have this opportunity and I’m excited to be back in the ring again. It’s huge to be on a card like this, especially as the co-main event on Cinco de Mayo weekend. It’s hard to put into words. I’m motivated, focused and getting ready for May 4.

“The welterweight division is stacked. We have a really exciting welterweight title fight opening the card with Stanionis and Maestre, who are both tremendous fighters. I have to make sure that I handle business with Fabian first.

“If everything goes our way, then I want those big unification fights and whoever is the best in the division. I’ve always taken on the best opponents and I’m going to continue to do that.

“I’m excited about what’s in front of me. There’s a lot of things moving around at welterweight and opportunities for new champions. By the end of the year, there will be even more big fights and I plan on being in them.

“I know that Fabian will bring that same focus and drive that his brother Marcos did to these big fights. He’s got a big opportunity and I know he’s not taking this fight lightly. He’s going to come with everything. I’m expecting a hard fight and I’m preparing myself for a brutal 12 rounds.

“Maidana is motivated and hungry, but I’m going to do whatever it takes to make sure that my hand is raised.

“I’m very motivated because it’s about more than just me now. I’m getting ready to have a daughter and it’s a different kind of motivation. I can’t wait to give everyone another great show.”

FABIAN MAIDANA

“I’ve always made my own way. I never see myself as in the shadow of anybody. I’m thankful to have this opportunity on this great card. I’m ready to showcase my skills on May 4.

“I want to show up and show out on May 4. I’m coming to win this fight and bring that belt home to Argentina.

“In order to win big fights, you have to throw a lot of punches. That’s what I’m going to do. I’m going to fight with all my heart and all my grit. I’ll show that the Maidana name is still on top.

“This is a great card and I’m happy to be on it. This is a huge night for boxing and I can’t wait to show how much this means to me when I get in the ring on May 4.

“My brother was a boxing great and I admire him. But I forge my own way, proudly so. I’m going to get into the ring on May 4 and deliver a battle that people will enjoy. That’s how I make my own name.

“I can’t tell you how it’s going to end, but it’s going to be a war and the best man will have his hand raised.

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m very blessed to have this opportunity. I’m just happy to be able to get back in the ring. The fight is here and I’m getting ready and prepared to be at my best.

“I’m just focused on hard work and discipline and doing whatever I need to be at the top of my game. It’s about who wants it more and who’s hungrier. You have to go out there and take it.

“Everyone knows I love to mix it up and get in there and work my inside game. I have to do whatever it takes to win the fight and make it look impressive. I’ll adapt to Jessie and work my way around what he does. It’s gonna be fireworks.

“I’ve been waiting for [WBC Featherweight World Champion] Rey Vargas and I’ve been patient. I took this opportunity because I’ve been itching to fight. I just want to fight the best of the best. If Vargas wants to fight this year, then let’s get it. If not, I’d love to rematch Stephen Fulton. I just want to keep delivering Fight of the Year candidates.

“Jessie is a former world champion for a reason. He’s been in with the best of the best and that’s all I could ask for. He’s someone who I don’t have to look for in the ring and that’s gonna deliver fireworks for the fans.

“It’s going to be a great Mexican atmosphere on May 4 and I know that I’ll have my people back home supporting me.”

JESSIE MAGDALENO

“I feel great right now. I’ve been putting in the work and staying in the gym. This is a great opportunity. I’m thankful to Brandon for accepting the fight. It’s gonna be a great show.

“Of course I have an edge in experience. I’ve been in there with some great fighters. I’ve been boxing for a long time and I know Brandon has put in his work as well. I don’t overlook anybody. I’m just focused on showing the world what I’m truly about.

“Last time I had the blonde hair I became world champion. I’m just ready to get back in there and show everybody what I’m about.

“A win like this is what’s been on my mind. That’s why I’m in the gym focused and working hard. Brandon comes to fight and he puts on a great show, just like I do. We both throw a lot of punches and I know on May 4 that winning this title will be huge for me.

“I know Brandon comes to fight. He’s a come-forward fighter who throws a lot of punches. He comes in great shape every time. We watch tapes and we know he’s a good fighter like I am. We’re focused on showcasing what we’ve got. I have a lot left in my tank and I’m gonna show it on May 4. This is a great matchup for my style.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“It’s been a long time and I’m very happy to be back in the ring. It’s amazing to fight on this big card on Cinco de Mayo weekend. I can’t really describe how great I feel. I know Maestre well and I know there will be fireworks on May 4.

“It was very frustrating to deal with fights that fell out. I just wanted to fight. But I stayed disciplined and trained hard the whole time. I just believed that I would get my opportunity eventually.

“On May 4 I will show that I’m back and put on a great performance like I always do. When you fight on Cinco de Mayo weekend, you have to come with something special.

“I would love a unification fight. It would be great to fight the winner of Barrios vs. Maidana, and then keep collecting belts.

“I train very hard and I’ve never been as hungry to get a win. Every day I get asked when I’m back in the ring, and now I’m ready to have my country behind me. We’re gonna give the fans a great fight.

“I won’t have ring rust because I live the life of an athlete. I’m a very disciplined fighter and I’m in really good shape. I’ve just been waiting for the call and now here we are.”

GABRIEL MAESTRE

“It is a privilege to fight against a champion like Stanionis. This is the fight that I’ve wanted for a long time and now things have come full circle. We had a very tough close fight in the amateurs and I’m looking forward to seeing what he has now.

“I’m very excited for this opportunity to fight on this important card. I’m having a tremendous training camp and I can’t wait to get into the ring.

“Unification is the goal. That’s always been my dream. Winning the title and unifying are next on my list and I’m ready to do it against anyone.

“We didn’t get a chance to fight each other at the Rio Olympics, so I’m truly looking forward to the opportunity to fight him in the pros.

“This is going to be a great battle. I’m not worried about the age difference. Look what my fellow Venezuelan Ismael Barroso did and what I did in my last fight. We’re going to keep pushing forward.”

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

LAS VEGAS – April 9, 2024 – Three high-stakes matchups featuring some of the sport’s most exciting fighters will round out a stacked pay-per-view lineup as Canelo Promotions presents a Cinco de Mayo weekend blockbuster featuring pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez putting his undisputed super middleweight world title on the line against unbeaten all-action former world champion Jaime Munguía headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, May 4 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, former world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios will defend his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentine power-puncher Fabián “TNT” Maidana, while hard-hitting former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa puts his Interim WBC Featherweight Title on the line against former world champion Jessie Magdaleno in pay-per-view action. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT is undefeated WBA Welterweight Champion Eimantas Stanionis battling the unbeaten two-time Olympian Gabriel Maestre.

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

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

“Saturday, May 4 will deliver a worthy pay-per-view undercard of toe-to-toe clashes leading up to the all-Mexico headlining clash between Canelo Álvarez and Jaime Munguia,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Cinco de Mayo weekend is a crown jewel in the boxing calendar, and with this jam-packed lineup of action fighters entering the ring at T-Mobile Arena, fans are in for non-stop entertainment once again on this PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video.”

**MARIO BARRIOS VS. FABIAN MAIDANA**

The 12-round co-main event will see Mario “El Azteca” Barrios make the first defense of his Interim WBC Welterweight Title against Argentina’s Fabián “TNT” Maidana, the younger brother of legendary action fighter Marcos who will look to add to his family legacy in his first world title opportunity.

A former world champion at 140-pounds, Barrios (28-2, 18 KOs) earned a career-best victory in his last outing and stamped his place as a top 147-pounder by dropping Yordenis Ugas twice last September on his way to a unanimous decision. The 28-year-old hails from San Antonio, Texas and now trains in Las Vegas under the guidance of top trainer Bob Santos. He won a 140-pound world championship in September 2019, using his aggressive style to edge out Batyr Akhmedov and earn a unanimous decision. Barrios lost the super lightweight title in another action packed, highly competitive bout, as he was defeated by three-division and five-time world champion Gervonta Davis in June 2021.

“I’m thrilled to be back in the ring for the co-main event of the biggest Mexican fight in history and during Cinco de Mayo weekend,” said Barrios. “Fabián Maidana is a tough warrior like me, so the fans are definitely in for an exciting fight. Defending my title is priority number one, and I’m going to do it with intelligence and bad intentions. Everyone knows that when I step into the ring, I leave it all in there. This will be no different. On May 4, the fans can expect a Mexico vs. Argentina war.”

The 31-year-old Maidana (22-2, 16 KOs) enters this fight on a four-bout winning streak, including three 2023 triumphs highlighted by a unanimous decision victory over Israel Lopez in November. A native of Margarita, Santa Fe, Argentina, Maidana hopes to follow in the footsteps of his older brother and former two-division champion Marcos. He’s fought professionally since 2014, following up a strong amateur career by winning his first 16 pro fights. He will return to fight stateside for the first time since 2019, after spending much of his early career fighting in the U.S., including a 2018 knockout of former title challenger Andrey Klimov.

“I’m very happy to be fighting on this card against a great champion like Mario Barrios,” said Maidana. “We come to win and give our best to the mecca of boxing, Las Vegas. The world knows my brother beat Floyd Mayweather on Cinco de Mayo, and I plan to do the same against Barrios. I’m fighting for my people in Argentina, and I’m coming to win.”

**BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. JESSIE MAGDALENO**

The pay-per-view lineup will also feature the return of former world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa as he defends his Interim WBC Featherweight Title in a 12-round bout against the former 122-pound world champion Jessie Magdaleno.

The 27-year-old Figueroa (24-1-1, 18 KOs) most recently picked up his interim title in his last bout, beating former world champion Mark Magsayo via unanimous decision in a Fight of the Year candidate in March 2023. It was his second fight since a 2021 Fight of the Year against Stephen Fulton Jr., which some observers thought ended in controversy after the majority decision loss for Figueroa. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa’s relentless pressure and youthful enthusiasm helped him become the first person to defeat former division champion Luis Nery in their championship clash prior to the Fulton fight. Figueroa added to his family’s legacy by capturing the WBC 122-pound world title against Nery, joining his brother Omar Figueroa Jr., who previously held the WBC Lightweight World Championship.

“I’ve been staying ready, just patiently waiting for my opportunity, and now I can’t wait to get back in the ring on May 4,” said Figueroa. “Magdaleno is a great fighter and he’s a former world champion for a reason. I know I have to be at my best. I’m just hungry to get back into the ring and keep boxing exciting with my fights and my fighting style.”

A Las Vegas-native, Magdaleno (29-2, 18 KOs) will look to rebound from a decision defeat in his last fight against current featherweight titlist Raymond Ford. Prior to the defeat, Magdaleno had put together four-straight victories since moving up to featherweight in 2019. The 32-year-old became a world champion in 2016 with a dominant unanimous decision victory over future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire, and successfully defended the title with a 2017 knockout of Adeilson Dos Santos. Magdaleno also comes from a boxing family, as his older brother Diego was a longtime contender, while his younger brother Marco also fought professionally.  

“This fight is everything for me,” said Magdaleno. “There are people who think I’m an underdog against Figueroa. But I’d remind those people of one thing…I was an underdog when I became world champion for the first time, and I’m ready to do it again. On May 4 you will hear ‘and the new!’”

**EIMANTAS STANIONIS VS. GABRIEL MAESTRE**

A come-forward technician, the undefeated Eimantas Stanionis will make the first defense of his WBA Welterweight Title when he takes on fellow unbeaten Gabriel Maestre in a 12-round showdown that opens up the pay-per-view card.

Representing his native Kaunas, Lithuania, Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs) has made the most of the promise he showed when turning pro after fighting for his country at the 2016 Olympic games. The 29-year-old captured his interim belt in his most recent outing, defeating the previously unbeaten Radzhab Butaev via a hard-fought decision in April 2022. Stanionis blasted through a slew of veteran welterweights on his way up the ladder, including a knockout of Justin DeLoach and a 12-round unanimous decision over Thomas Dulorme.

“I’m so excited to get back in the ring, I feel like a kid in a candy store who gets to choose any kind of candy he wants,” said Stanionis. “This is especially exciting for me because I am a big fan of Canelo Álvarez. I love watching his fights and as a kid, I dreamed of fighting on Cinco de Mayo in front of all those great Mexican fans. It motivates me even more to give them a great fight. I know that Gabriel Maestre is tough and has power. We fought in the amateurs and I know it’s a great matchup of styles. I’m going to bring the action and so will he. You can definitely expect fireworks on May 4.”

A two-time Olympian for his home country of Venezuela, Maestre (6-0-1, 5 KOs) delivered a dominant display last August as he blasted out the then-unbeaten rising prospect Travon Marshall in round two. His pro career has followed an extensive amateur run that included victories over Brian Castano, Carlos Adames, Alexander Besputin, Oscar Molina and Brian Ceballo. He made his U.S. debut with a controversial decision victory over Mykal Fox in August 2021 before fighting fellow unbeaten Taras Shelestyuk to a draw in March 2022 and defeating former two-division champion Devon Alexander in April 2023.

“I’ve wanted to fight Stanionis for years and get revenge from our amateur match,” said Maestre. “It was a tough close fight and I’m ready to face him again for another war. We are ready for a great fight and to leave the ring with my hand raised. May 4 will be a historic day for me and Venezuela.”

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

SAN ANTONIO, TX (July 6, 2023): Today, Golden Boy Promotions hosted a press conference at the Tobin Center and announced the new main event for Saturday, July 8 featuring Golden Boy’s hot prospect Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield (14-0, 11 KOs) who will headline in his home state of Texas. Presented in association with Davies Entertainment, Schofield will face Haskell “Hackman” Rhodes (28-4-1, 13 KOs) of Las Vegas, Nevada in a 10-round lightweight fight and defend his WBA International Title. The new main event replaces the original clash between undefeated knockout sensation Vergil Ortiz, Jr. (19-0, 19 KOs) of Grand Prairie, Texas and World Champion Eimantas Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs) of Kaunas, Lithuania for Stanionis’ WBA Regular Welterweight Title. The DAZN broadcast will begin at 7:00 p.m. CT/ 5:00 p.m. PT.

In the chief supporting role, Joseph “JoJo” Diaz (32-4-1, 15 KOs) will participate in a 10-round lightweight fight against Harbor City, California’s Jerry Perez (14-2-1, 11 KOs). In a spectacular unification bout, the WBA, WBC and Ring Magazine World Champion Marlen Esparza (13-1, 1 KOs) of Houston, Texas will face WBO World Champion of Buenos Aires, Argentina Gabriela Alaniz (14-0, 6 KOs) in a 10-round flyweight fight. Opening the broadcast with an eight-round super welterweight fight, Romanian-American prospect Eric Tudor (8-0, 6 KOs) of Fort Lauderdale, Florida will square off against Reggie Harris, Jr. (7-3, 3 KOs) of Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Featured in the prelims, Tristan Kalkreuth (10-1, 7 KOs) of Duncanville, Texas will fight Joe Jones (13-8,10 KOs) of Jersey City, New Jersey in a six-round cruiserweight match. Opening fight night with six-rounds of light heavyweight action, Houston’s Darius “DFG” Fulghum (5-0, 5 KOs) will fight Jeremiah Curtright (2-1, 2 KOs) of Saint Charles, Missouri.

Here is what the fighters had to say:

FLOYD “KID AUSTIN” SCHOFIELD, WBA INTERNATIONAL LIGHTWEIGHT TITLEHOLDER:

“It’s a blessing to be the main event, everybody is coming up to me now ‘oh, now you’re the main event’ so you know, I gotta do what I got to do. Hearing that, I know I have to make a statement. I was training just as hard as if I was the main event from the beginning, so Saturday night I am going to make a statement.

“It’s super exciting to be fighting in San Antonio because it’s like now, all my fans don’t have an excuse, they can come to this fight. So I’d like to see everyone who said they were coming. I have a big fan base in Austin and in San Antonio, and to combine them for the fight is going to be massive support and love, the energy is going to be amazing.

“I just want to give a big thanks to Oscar De La Hoya, Golden Boy, Bernard Hopkins, my dad, my team, Chris, Cameron Davies, and all the fans. Thank you for not canceling this fight and my best wishes to Virgil Ortiz. Make sure you tune in on Saturday. It’s gonna be a good show.”

HASKELL “HACKMAN” RHODES, LIGHTWEIGHT FIGHTER:

“Just like Schofield, we’ve been training just like we’re the main event to compete against the whole card to steal the show. But I do want to say thanks to Golden Boy and everyone for keeping the show going and also to Floyd for taking the fight with me to put me in this position.

“I know he’s super talented, but I’ve seen a lot like him, and I’m used to styles like his, so I bring the experience and I’m ready. I know I have learned some lessons that have helped me straighten out my life because there are some fights I shouldn’t have lost. So this fight is going to get a fire from me that he’s not expecting. The fighter you have seen in the ring before is not the same, I am a whole different person.”

MARLEN ESPARZA, WBA, WBC, AND RING MAGAZINE WORLD CHAMPION:

“I’m really excited to be here. First of all, I want to thank God and I want to thank Golden Boy for making sure that the show goes on. I hope Vergil has a quick and healthy recovery. But I’m excited to get back in the ring. I’ve defended my belts before and I’m really looking forward to getting this WBO belt. My goal is to become undisputed and this is what I need to do to get there. I understand I’m also facing a world champion. So, we’re taking this very seriously. Me and my coach, my manager James Cooper, we’ve worked really hard on making sure that we have everything done correctly. And I’m just waiting and ready to get the job done.

“I feel like it’s like any other challenge that I faced in boxing. It’s always on to the next, to the next and trying to show that I am one of the best female boxers in boxing. I’ve done everything there is to do and the WBO belt is just what’s next. I take everything extremely seriously. Boxing has been my life. And it’s everything I focus on and this is a life goal. And I’m not going to leave the ring without it.”

GABRIELA ALANIZ, WBO WORLD CHAMPION:

“I’m really happy to be here and I am ready to show everyone the kind of fighter I am. I am very excited to be able to defend my world title and be able to fight for two more world titles.

“Making history as a female boxer in Argentina is a big motivator for me. I know that I’m in a foreign land, and I’m here as a visitor, but in the ring, I feel like I’m a local, because I am where I love to be. I love to be in the ring fighting.”

JOSEPH “JOJO” DIAZ, FORMER LIGHTWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:

“It’s a tragic situation, what’s going on with Virgil Ortiz and in his career, my condolences to him and his family. I’m gonna be praying for you brother and I wish you a quick recovery so you can come back to the ring and give the fans what they want to see and see you back in the ring.

“Also want to thank Oscar De La Hoya and Golden Boy Promotions, for saving the show and saving this card. All of us fighters on the undercard have been working day in and day out to showcase our skills and showcase our abilities and show what we can do inside their ring. So for them to save the show for us means a lot to us.

“I’ve been training very, very hard. My career has had a lot of ups and downs, but I’ve been very focused and I feel very, very determined. I cut a lot of things out of my life that weren’t beneficial and right now I’m at my A-game. I’m really going to put on a great show, especially now that I’m the co-main event. I’m really going to whack some ass now.”

ERIC TUDOR, SUPER WELTERWEIGHT PROSPECT:
“I’m very excited to be a part of another great card. I want to thank God and Golden Boy for the opportunity. I want to thank my team for getting me ready. And, you know, I’m just very excited and looking forward to putting on another great fight Saturday, so make sure you tune in early.”

DARIUS FULGHUM, LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT PROSPECT:

“This is a huge opportunity to be on this card. Bernard gave a great speech; I was listening to it and it really inspired me and motivated me. We got to pivot. We make dozens of decisions in the ring and in life all the time. And so when a moment comes, we’ve got to seize it. So that’s what I’m here to do, to steal the show. And I hope everybody watching tunes in. We’re gonna put on a great show with everybody on this card.”

TRISTAN KALKREUTH, CRUISERWEIGHT PROSPECT:

“I just want to thank you all, all the fans and my team, my coaches. I’m just very humbled and grateful to be here and just following up on what Bernard said, as a fighter we have a simple job. It is to prepare, train, and fight. I just hope everybody tunes in to this fight. All Glory to God.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS:

“The health of the fighter is the most important. We are all in Vergil’s corner, wishing him the very best possible recovery and will wait for him with open arms and ready for when he wishes to come back to the ring. Vergil, with the help of his dad, has the potential to be a world champion.

“Thank you to DAZN and all our partners for helping us make sure the show goes on. This has opened up the opportunity for Golden Boy’s top prospect, Floyd Schofield, to accelerate his profile by headlining in his home state of Texas. Floyd will face Haskell Rhodes in a 10-round fight for the WBA International title.”

BERNARD HOPKINS, HALL OF FAMER AND GOLDEN BOY PARTNER:

“We lost the main event, of course we’re not happy about it, you’re not happy about it, but his health is most important. But also what’s important is that the fighters to my right and to my left see that adjustments have to be made. It’s no different than life, no different than in the ring, things happen that you can’t control.

“So the fighters here, the future champions, are watching. They might not say anything to us, but they are watching to see how we react as promoters. See how we pivot, to how we adjust, just like in the ring. Sometimes you gotta make those adjustments, the adjustments that need to be made on the promoter-side to save the show.

“And so again, this is an opportunity for those who were waiting to be showcased, for those who want to be the main event to get the chance to be the star of the night, of the show. So this is an opportunity for everybody that’s up on stage, that’s going to fight, to learn as a lesson that first, health is more important. Your safety is more important.”

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Schofield vs. Rhodes is a 10-round fight for the WBA International Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Davies Entertainment. The event is sponsored by BetOnline, “Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, July 8 at AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

Fans can purchase tickets at a discounted price for $150, $75, $37.50, $35, and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at ticketmaster.com or by using the Ticketmaster App on your mobile device. More information on ticket refunds will be shared as soon as possible.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #StanionisOrtiz

About the AT&T Center
The premier entertainment venue in South Texas, the AT&T Center is the home of the San Antonio Spurs (NBA) and the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. The Bexar County-owned arena has also hosted hundreds of concerts and special events since opening in 2002 and underwent a $110+ million renovation in 2015 to enhance the fan experience at all levels. For more information go to ATTCenter.com.

SAN ANTONIO, TX (July 6, 2023):

Statement from Golden Boy Promotions:

“Nothing is more important than the safety of our fighters, and we of course support Vergil’s decision 100 percent. This unfortunate event does however open the door for one of Golden Boy’s top prospects, Floyd Schofield, to accelerate his profile by headlining in his home state of Texas. We will, as always, put on a high-action card from top to bottom on July 8 and look forward to showcasing all of our fighters both in San Antonio and on DAZN.”

More information on the July 8 event will be announced shortly.

SAN ANTONIO, TX (June 15, 2023): The undercard has been finalized for another potential main event candidate for ‘Fight of the Year’ featuring the highly anticipated clash between undefeated knockout sensation Vergil Ortiz, Jr. (19-0, 19 KOs) of Grand Prairie, Texas and World Champion Eimantas Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs) of Kaunas, Lithuania for Stanionis’ WBA Regular Welterweight Title.

In the chief supporting role, Golden Boy’s blue-chip prospect Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield (14-0, 11 KOs) will be looking to dazzle the crowd yet again after a ferocious second-round knockout victory against Jesus Valentin Leon on the Davis vs. Garcia undercard on April 22. Presented in association with Davies Entertainment, Schofield will measure up against Haskell “Hackman” Rhodes (28-4-1, 13 KOs) of Las Vegas, Nevada in a 10-round lightweight fight. 

On the DAZN broadcast with a spectacular unification bout, the WBA, WBC and Ring Magazine World Champion Marlen Esparza (13-1, 1 KOs) of Houston, Texas will take a step closer to her dream to become the first-ever undisputed female flyweight champion of the world when she faces WBO World Champion of Buenos Aires, Argentina Gabriela Alaniz (14-0, 6 KOs) in a 10-round flyweight fight. Esparza returns to the ring after an impressive showing against Eva Guzman last August 2022 on the Ortiz, Jr. vs. MicKinson undercard. 

Opening the broadcast with a redemptive return to the ring after re-signing a multi-fight contract with Golden Boy, Joseph “JoJo” Diaz (32-4-1, 15 KOs) will also be on the DAZN undercard in a 10-round lightweight fight. Diaz’s opponent will also be announced in the coming weeks. 

On the preliminary card with an eight-round super welterweight fight, Romanian-American hot prospect Eric Tudor (8-0, 6 KOs) of Fort Lauderdale, Florida will square off against Reggie Harris, Jr. (7-3, 3 KOs) of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Tudor made waves and gained a massive following on the undercard of Diaz, Jr. vs. Gesta this past March 2023, where he was in a toe-to-toe matchup against Damoni Cato-Cain.

Also in the prelims, Tristan Kalkreuth (10-1, 7 KOs) of Duncanville, Texas will fight Jaime Solorio (12-5-2, 9 KOs) of Ensenada, Mexico in a six-round cruiserweight match. Opening fight night with four-rounds of light heavyweight action, Houston’s Darius “DFG” Fulghum (5-0, 5 KOs) will fight Ricardo Medina (1-4) of San Antonio. 

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Stanionis vs. Ortiz, Jr. is a 12-round fight for the WBA Regular Welterweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by BetOnline, “Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, July 8 at AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

Tickets for Stanionis vs. Ortiz, Jr. are on sale and are priced at $250, $150, $100, $75 and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at ticketmaster.com or by using the Ticketmaster App on your mobile device.

Media interested in covering the fight can apply for a credential by clicking HERE. Credential applications are due by June 30, 2023. 

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #StanionisOrtiz

About the AT&T Center

The premier entertainment venue in South Texas, the AT&T Center is the home of the San Antonio Spurs (NBA) and the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. The Bexar County-owned arena has also hosted hundreds of concerts and special events since opening in 2002 and underwent a $110+ million renovation in 2015 to enhance the fan experience at all levels. For more information go to ATTCenter.com.

SAN ANTONIO, TX (May 15, 2023): A new date has been set for the highly anticipated clash between undefeated knockout sensation Vergil Ortiz, Jr. (19-0, 19 KOs) of Grand Prairie, Texas and World Champion Eimantas Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs) of Kaunas, Lithuania for Stanionis’ WBA Regular Welterweight Title. Originally scheduled for April 29, the bout was postponed after Ortiz, Jr. suffered a rhabdomyolysis flare-up due to long COVID. The 12-round championship showdown will now take place at AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas on July 8 and will be broadcast worldwide exclusively on DAZN. 

Tickets for Stanionis vs. Ortiz, Jr will go on sale Thursday, May 18 at 10 a.m. CT and are priced at $250, $150, $100, $75 and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at ticketmaster.com or by using the Ticketmaster App on your mobile device.

More information on the card will be shared in the coming weeks. 

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Stanionis vs. Ortiz, Jr. is a 12-round fight for the WBA Regular Welterweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by BetOnline, “Your Online Sportsbook Experts,” and AutoZone, “Get in the Zone, AutoZone.” The fight will take place on Saturday, July 8 at AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #StanionisOrtiz

About the AT&T Center

The premier entertainment venue in South Texas, the AT&T Center is the home of the San Antonio Spurs (NBA) and the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. The Bexar County-owned arena has also hosted hundreds of concerts and special events since opening in 2002 and underwent a $110+ million renovation in 2015 to enhance the fan experience at all levels. For more information go to ATTCenter.com.

LOS ANGELES, CA (March 29, 2023) – In preparation for his upcoming fight on April 29 in Arlington, Texas, Vergil Ortiz, Jr. has had to pull out of his main event versus Eimantas Stanionis for the WBA Regular Welterweight World Championship due to a flare-up with rhabdomyolysis. Ortiz was diagnosed in March 2022 with the serious condition which can cause permanent organ damage and can be potentially fatal. He is expected to make a full recovery and return to the ring later this year.

“Vergil works tirelessly to prepare for his fights and this is of course a huge disappointment for Golden Boy, him and his family,” said Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya. “Despite this setback, I truly believe Vergil remains focused and will accomplish his goal of becoming a world champion this year and going on to become the top welterweight in the division.”

More information on the April 29 event will be announced shortly.

RLINGTON, TX (March 2, 2023): Tickets for the highly anticipated clash for the WBA Regular Welterweight Title between undefeated knockout artist Vergil Ortiz, Jr. (19-0, 19 KOs) of Grand Prairie, Texas and current undefeated World Champion Eimantas Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs) will go on sale Friday, March 3. The 12-round championship showdown is set to take place on Saturday, April 29 at College Park Center at The University of Texas at Arlington campus. The exclusive fight night will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN. 

Tickets for Stanionis vs. Ortiz, Jr. will go on-sale at 10:00 am CT/ 8:00 a.m. PT and are priced at $250, $150, $100, $75 and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at UTATickets.com, AXS.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com. 

Information on the undercard will be announced in the upcoming weeks.

Media interested in applying for a credential can apply at https://emcevents.com/ortizjr_stanionis.html. Media credential applications are due by EOD April 17. 

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Stanionis vs. Ortiz, Jr. is a 12-round fight for the WBA Regular Welterweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, April 29 at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #StanionisOrtiz

ARLINGTON, TX (February 13, 2023): Undefeated knockout sensation Vergil Ortiz, Jr. (19-0, 19 KOs) of Grand Prairie, Texas has kicked opened the door to challenge for a world title as he is set to fight undefeated World Champion Eimantas Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs) of Kaunas, Lithuania for Stanionis’s WBA Regular Welterweight Title. The 12-round championship showdown is set to take place on Saturday, April 29 at College Park Center at The University of Texas at Arlington campus. The exclusive fight night will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN. 

“I am beyond happy, knowing that we’re finally here, fighting for a world title,” said Vergil Ortiz, Jr. “The work that we’ve done inside and outside of the ring and the obstacles we’ve overcome has led to this moment. Stanionis is a great fighter with massive power and I know we are going to put on a good show for everyone. I want to thank my promoter, Golden Boy, the WBA, and my manager, Rick Mirigian for getting this across the finish line.” 

“Vergil asked for this fight, so here we are,” said Eimantas Stanionis. “I feel like this is going to be a special fight. We have mutual respect as competitors but make no mistake it’s going to be an absolute war.” 

“There will be war inside the ring on April 29 as these two dangerous fighters clash to be at the top of the welterweight division,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “Ortiz and Stanionis are elite level fighters who will be unafraid to unleash treacherous power and pressure to be crowned World Champion.” 

“2023 is already developing into one of our best ever schedules with Ortiz and Zurdo all set to fight in the first four months of the year,” said Joseph Markowski, CEO North America, DAZN Group. “Vergil is a future World Champion and this will be his toughest test to date versus a very tough opponent in Stanionis. Watch this brilliant fight live and exclusive on DAZN.”

With a 100 percent knockout ratio, Vergil Ortiz, Jr. sits near the top of the stacked welterweight division. His most recent fight in August of 2022 was an entertaining scramble in front of a hometown Texan crowd against Michael McKinson that added rounds to his boxing portfolio and a seventh-round KO. The 24-year-old has had an exciting career since his 2016 debut, knocking out contenders like Antonio “Relentless” Orozco, Brad “King” Solomon, and Maurice “Mighty Mo” Hooker. Ortiz is currently ranked No. 1 by the WBA and WBO, No.2 by the WBA, and No. 3 by the IBF. This will be the first time he will be fighting for a world championship. 

Currently the WBA Regular Welterweight World Champion, Eimantas Stanionis secured his title belt with a split-decision victory against Radzhab Butaev in a toe-to-toe match-up last April 2022. The 28-year-old former Lithuanian Olympian turned pro in 2017 after an impressive amateur career that amassed a number of accolades, including representing his country at the 2016 Olympics in Brazil. Since turning pro, the undefeated fighter quickly went from prospect to contender after beating the likes of Justin DeLoach, Janer Gonzalez, and Thomas Dulorme. 

Information on tickets and the undercard will be announced in the upcoming weeks.

Media interested in applying for a credential can apply at https://emcevents.com/ortizjr_stanionis.html. Media credential applications are due by EOD April 17. 

Stanionis vs. Ortiz, Jr. is a 12-round fight for the WBA Regular Welterweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, April 29 at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #StanionisOrtiz

Errol Spence Jr. added the WBA Welterweight title to his WBC and IBF collection by stopping Yordenis Ugas in round 10 of a thrilling fight in front of nearly 40,000 fans at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The fight was fought mostly toe-to-toe with both guys digging to the body. Spence was pinpoint with his uppercut, Ugas tried to match that and also was effective with a right around the guard.

In round six, Ugas landed a big right that rocked Spence and made the moutpiece go flying. Spence asked for time but Ugas was right on top of Spence and pounded away for his best moment of the fight. That seemed to wake Spence up as he started landing massive left hands that started to swell the right eye of Ugas. That was the turning point of the fight as Spence was relentless with his pressure as he hurt Ugas several more times with big flurries. With each round, the eye worsened for Ugas. In round eight, the doctor looked at the eye of Ugas, but The Cuban was able to continue. He continued to take more punishment until the middle of round 10 as the fight was stopped on the advice of the ringside physician.

Spence, 146,25 lbs of DeSoto, TX is now 28-0 with 22 knockouts. Ugas, Santiago de Cuba, CUB is 27-5.

Isaac Cruz pummels Gamboa in Five

Former world title challenger Isaac Cruz scored four knockdowns en-route to a fifth round stoppage over former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in a 10-round lightweight fight.

In round two, Cruz sent Gamboa to the canvas with a huge three punch combination. In round three, it was a left hook that dropped Gamboa. In round four, Cruz scored a hard knockdown with a left hook. Cruz mercifully ended things when he landed a big overhand right knocked Gamboa into the ropes and the fight was called off at 1:32.

Cruz, 134.75 lbs of Mexico City is 23-2-1 with 16 knockouts. Gamboa, 134.25 lbs of Guantanamo, CUB is 30-5.

Jose Valenzuela Destroys Vargas in First Round

Jose Valenzuela annihilated former world champion Francisco Vargas in the opening round of their 10-round lightweight bout.

Valenzuela landed a booming left that sent Vargas to the canvas and the fight was stopped at 1:25.

Valenzuela, 134.75 lbs of Los Mochis, MX is 12-0 with eight knockout. Vargas, 134.25 lbs of Mexico City is 27-4-2.

Cody Crowley Decisions Josesito Lopez

Cody Crowley remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Josesito Lopez in a welterweight bout.

In round seven, Crowley dropped Lopez with a right hook to the head. In round nine, the left eye of Lopez started to swell.

Crowley landed 205 of 812 punches; Lopez was 116 of 443.

Crowley, 144.5 lbs of Pieterborough, ONT CAN, won by scores of 99-90 and 98-91 twice and is now 21-0. Lopez, 146.3 lbs of Riverside, CA is 38-9.

Stanionis Wins WBA Welterweight title with Decisions over Butaev

Eimantas Stanionis won the WBA Welterweight title with a 12-round split decision over Radzhab Butaev.

In round 11, Butaev was deducted a point for holding the head and hitting Stanionis.

Stanionis landed 222 of 621 punches; Butaev was 140 of 747.

Stanionis, 146.5 lbs of Lithuania won by scores of 117-110 and 116-111. Butaev took a card 114-113.

Stanionis 14-0. Butaev, 146.5 lbs of Russia is 14-1.

“I still can’t believe it,” Stanionis said afterward. “It was a dream come true to hear ‘and the new.’ When I was a kid, I visualized what this would look like and how it would feel to become a champion. It’s because of the hard work, dedication, belief in myself and my team to get me to this big stage. I just want to tell everybody that dreams do come true. If you believe in it and give your everything, it will happen.”

“The fight went like this because the referee allowed Stanionis to fight with his head down the entire time,” Butaev said. “What can I do if the guy is leading with his head down all the time? I don’t know why he took away a point from me. They should have taken the point away from him because he was diving in the whole time.”

Brandun Lee Decisions Ochoa

Brandun Lee remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Zachary Ochoa in a junior welterweight bout

In round five, Ochoa began to bleed from his nose.

Lee landed 103 of 575 punches. Ochoa was 70 of 328.

Lee, 141.25 lbs of La Quinta, CA won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 24-0. Ochoa, 141.25 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 21-3.

“I think that only two rounds were close, the seventh and maybe the ninth,” Lee said. “It was exactly what I expected. Perhaps I could have performed better, my combinations been a bit sharper, but it was a good fight overall. Fighting at AT&T Stadium was a blessing. Wow, what an experience. It motivates me even more to come back here and be a headliner one day. I want to be a world champion at 140, unify titles, become undisputed and then become a world champ at 147.”

“Brandun Lee is a really good fighter, a strong fighter,” Ochoa said. “I feel I was doing really well. He caught me a little bit, but I kept my confidence, my poise and when it was time to step it up the last three rounds, I started putting the pressure on him and we went at it. I went all out. He’s never had it like that. I only got hurt one time, maybe at the end of the seventh. I know I buzzed him too.”

NEW YORK – March 28, 2022 – SHOWTIME Sports is preparing two significant programs in support of one of this year’s biggest pay-per-view events.

The network will for the first time televise a special SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING headlined by WBA Welterweight Champion Radzhab Butaev and top contender Eimantas Stanionis in a battle of unbeatens taking place immediately before the four-fight Spence vs. Ugas SHOWTIME PPV® from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and also features unbeaten rising star Brandun Lee taking on Zachary Ochoa in a super lightweight bout.

Additionally, SHOWTIME Sports will premiere a new installment of the Emmy Award-winning series ALL ACCESS. The multi-part series premieres Saturday, April 2, at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME with episode two premiering Saturday, April 9, at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT in advance of Spence vs. Ugas on Saturday, April 16. Furthermore, ALL ACCESS Epilogue will premiere on SHOWTIME the following Saturday, April 23, and will showcase fight week in Dallas as well as all the action inside the ropes on fight night and the immediate aftermath.

“We are pulling out all the stops for the April 16 event, which is easily one of the biggest of the year. Delivering a special episode of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING to our subscribers before the four-fight pay-per-view card begins is something that has never been done in the history of this network. We are proud to break precedent,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Adding high-stakes, compelling fights to an already strong undercard elevates what is sure to be a memorable night for boxing. Plus, a new installment of our signature ALL ACCESS series to chronicle the divergent paths of Spence and Ugas to reach this moment will be captivating drama. It’s an embarrassment of riches from top to bottom for the boxing audience.”

Tickets for the April 16 live event at AT&T Stadium are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com, the Official Ticketing Provider of AT&T Stadium.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING LINEUP

The 28-year-old Butaev (14-0, 11 KOs) captured his WBA title with a dominating performance on SHOWTIME in October, as he battered top contender Jamal James on his way to a ninth-round stoppage victory. Butaev turned pro after approximately 400 amateur bouts in 2016 and reeled-off KOs in six of his first seven outings. Butaev is now trained by top coach Joel Diaz in Indio, Calif. His TKO victory over James gave Butaev victories inside of the distance in five of his last six fights.

“I’m feeling very prepared for this fight on April 16,” said Butaev. “Every time I step into the ring, I’m looking to give the fans an exciting fight. Knowing how Stanionis also loves to come forward and compete, this time, it’s a guarantee that there are going to be fireworks. We’re definitely both going to bring it in this fight. Make sure you don’t miss this one, because it’s going to be a brutal back-and-forth affair.”

Stanionis (13-0, 9 KOs) earned a series of attention-grabbing victories as he has climbed the ranks from prospect to contender, including a career-best 12-round decision over Thomas Dulorme in April 2021 on SHOWTIME. The 27-year-old former Olympian from Lithuania, who now lives and trains in California, most recently fought former champion Luis Collazo to a no-decision in August 2021 after an accidental clash of heads prematurely ended the action. Prior to going 12 rounds for the first time with Dulorme, Stanionis had stopped six of his previous eight opponents.

“I’m excited for this huge opportunity to show my skills in front of thousands of fans at AT&T Stadium,” said Stanionis. “Butaev is a strong opponent. I know that this is going to be a hard fight for both of us and that our styles are going to make this action-packed for as long as it lasts. My goal for 2022 is to become world champion. That’s been my dream since I was a child and now I’m very close to bringing the belt back home to Lithuania.”

A highly regarded prospect, Lee (24-0, 22 KOs) has won his last 15 fights by knockout, most recently dropping and stopping veteran contender Juan Heraldez on SHOWTIME in December 2021. Trained by his father Bobby, Lee fought four times in 2020 and three times in 2021 as he continued to pile up knockouts. He had a decorated amateur career with an estimated record of 196-5 and was the 2015 U.S. Junior National Champion, taking home the gold medal at 145 pounds.

“I think it is a great idea to have our fight lead into the SHOWTIME PPV,” said Lee. “What better way to show all the boxing fans out there some of the top young talent looking to become the next contenders and world champions in the sport.”

A native of Brooklyn, New York, Ochoa (21-2, 7 KOs) trains in Philadelphia with highly regarded trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards. The 28-year-old was unbeaten in his first 16 pro fights and bounced back from his first pro defeat to win five straight contests between 2017 and 2020. Ochoa returns to the ring after dropping a narrow, split decision to Argentine contender Juan Jose Velasco in February of 2021.

“I’m very ready and focused on this fight coming up on April 16,” said Ochoa. “I’m sure Lee will be ready too and that just makes me more motivated to be at my best. Trust me, this is a night boxing fans will not want to miss!”

ALL ACCESS: SPENCE VS. UGAS

ALL ACCESS: SPENCE VS. UGAS peels back the curtain to showcase how the two champions share one trait – resilience. Both fighters open up about their frantic and ultimately fruitful journeys that led them to this moment with Spence talking about his near-tragic automobile accident and eye injury that forced him to miss a career-defining opportunity against Manny Pacquiao, and Ugas depicting his harrowing journey from Cuba to the United States.

Filming is underway in Dallas, revealing a surprising lifestyle change Spence has made as he prepares for the fight with longtime trainer Derrick James. Filming in Las Vegas has also begun, where Ugas is in training camp under renowned coach Ismael Salas.

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ABOUT SPENCE VS. UGAS
WBC and IBF world champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBA world champion Yordenis Ugas square off in a welterweight title unification clash that headlines a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, April 16 from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features exciting lightweight contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz taking on veteran former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in the 10-round co-main event.

The lineup also includes unbeaten Jose Valenzuela battling former world champion Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas in a 10-round lightweight fight, plus unbeaten Cody Crowley faces veteran contender Josesito Lopez in a 10-round duel of all-action welterweights that kicks off the telecast.

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

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Paramount, owns and operates the premium service SHOWTIME®, which features critically acclaimed original series, provocative documentaries, box-office hit films, comedy and music specials and hard-hitting sports. SHOWTIME is available as a stand-alone streaming service across all major streaming devices and Showtime.com, as well as via cable, DBS, telco and streaming video providers. SNI also operates the premium services THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as on demand versions of all three brands. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.

About AT&T Stadium:
AT&T Stadium is one of the largest, most technologically advanced entertainment venues in the world. Designed by HKS and built by Manhattan Construction, the $1.2 billion stadium features two monumental arches, the world’s largest HDTV video board cluster, an expansive retractable roof and the largest retractable end zone doors in the world. Features of the stadium include seating for 80,000 and expandability for up to 100,000, over 300 luxury suites, club seating on multiple levels and the Dallas Cowboys Pro Shop, open to the public year round. The stadium is also home to a world-class collection of contemporary art, made up of over 50 pieces from an international array of curated artists displayed on the walls and in the grand public spaces of the venue. In addition to being the Home of the Dallas Cowboys since opening in 2009, the stadium has hosted Super Bowl XLV, the 2010 NBA All Star Game, the 2014 NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four, the 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship Game and the annual Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic. The venue has also played host to high school and college football, concerts, championship fights, international soccer matches, and other special events. For more information, go to www.attstadium.com.