BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – AUGUST 27, 2026 – Today at bp pulse LIVE in Birmingham, England, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) hosted the back-to-back MVPW-07 Kickoff Press Conference and MVPW-06 UK vs. USA fight week press conference, bringing together stars from two upcoming championship cards as MVP continues a historic stretch of boxing events showcasing the sport’s most elite fighters across the UK and US.

Taking the stage ahead of Saturday night’s MVPW-06 UK vs. USA were MVP’s American unified WBA and WBC champion and ESPN’s #7 pound-for-pound fighter Mikaela Mayer (22-2, 5 KOs) and MVP and the UK’s WBO champion and ESPN’s #5 pound-for-pound fighter Chantelle Cameron (22-1, 8 KOs), who will meet in a 10-round title unification main event at 154lbs. Also participating were MVP and London’s unified WBC and WBO lightweight world champion Caroline Dubois (13-0-1, 5 KOs) and the USA’s WBO #5 contender, two-time national champion and reigning NABF lightweight champion Amelia Moore (4-0, 1 KO), who will meet in the 10-round co-main event at 135lbs, along with MVP’s Reina Tellez (13-1-1, 5 KOs), Jessica Barry (10-1, 2 KOs), MVP’s Terri Harper (16-3-2, 6 KOs), MVP’s Miranda Reyes (9-3-1, 3 KOs), MVP’s Tysie Gallagher (10-2), and Brandi Robinson (5-0, 1 KO).

The press conference also officially kicked off MVPW-07, set for Sunday, November 8 at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas. MVP’s unified super featherweight world champion Alycia Baumgardner (18-1, 7 KOs) came face-to-face with MVP’s newest signee, Turkey’s undefeated IBF lightweight world champion Elif Nur Turhan (14-0, 8 KOs), ahead of their 10-round championship main event contested with three-minute rounds for Turhan’s IBF lightweight world title. Baumgardner will step up to 135lbs as she seeks to become a two-division world champion. MVPW-07 co-main event fighters also took the stage as MVP’s reigning WBC featherweight world champion Tiara Brown (21-0, 11 KOs) met MVP’s former undisputed champion Ellie Scotney (12-0). Brown will defend her WBC featherweight world title over 10 rounds at 126lbs against Scotney, who moves up in weight seeking to become a two-division world champion.

See below for quotes from today’s MVPW-06 UK vs. USA and MVPW-07 Double Kickoff Press Conference. For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions.

MVPW-06 UK VS. USA

MIKAELA MAYER QUOTES

On wanting big fights:

I’m in that stage of my career where these are the only type of fights that I really want. I think [Chantelle] Cameron feels the same way. 

On her and Cameron’s boxing careers: 

We’ve had a lot of ups and a few downs, but it’s great that we both always wanted to continue to fight the best.

On Cameron’s fighting style:  

I can just do more. I think that you can look at Chantelle Cameron and her style, and it’s very straightforward. You know what she’s going to do. 

On her plan for Saturday night:

When I go in there this weekend, I’m going to start quick, start fast, start from round one, not let anything get away from me, and not leave it in the hands of the judges because you can’t always trust the judges.

On her goals for Saturday night’s bout:

I’m just ready to go in there and box her up, prove everyone who thinks she’s going to win wrong, and make my team proud. 

CHANTELLE CAMERON QUOTES

On preparing to face Mayer: 

I’m doing everything that’s been asked of me, and I think I’m in the prime actually. I think obviously I’ve had a few ups and downs, but I’m in a good place.

On blocking out outside noise: 

As long as I know that I’m winning my fights and I’m doing what I want to do and what I’m set out to do, everything else is just noise.

On wanting to fight Mayer: 

I think Mikaela [Mayer] is very good and that’s why I’ve always wanted this fight. I think she’s brilliant and I’m actually a fan of hers. Even though I’m coming up against her, I’d watch Mikaela [Mayer] and enjoy her fights. That’s why I want to fight her, because I want to fight the best.

On having compatible fighting styles with Mayer: 

I think our styles just gel for a really good fight.

On her final message to Mayer:

Let’s go grab female fight of the year.

CAROLINE DUBOIS QUOTES:

On facing Moore: 

I’m 100% confident. I’ve come so far. I’ve changed my team. I’ve moved to LA. I’ve dedicated myself as always. I’m excited.

On seeing Moore as a step on her path to becoming undisputed: 

At the end of the day, it’s always an opportunity for me to just show out, show the world why I’m the best in the 135 division. It’s just another step on the road for me. I think it’s another opportunity to come out, show up, and show out.

On working to become undisputed: 

My mind, my heart, and my soul are set on becoming undisputed. Nobody is going to stop me from achieving that.

On training to face Moore: 

In terms of me overlooking anyone, I don’t see that as even a possibility because I see respect as training as hard as I absolutely can. I respected Amelia Moore in this camp because I’ve trained like an absolute animal.

On if she’s looking past Moore: 

There’s no way I’ve looked past her [Amelia Moore]. I’ve trained unbelievably hard.

AMELIA MOORE QUOTES:

On preparing to face Dubois: 

Every day is another stepping stone towards building more of myself and digging deeper into the camp. So, I’ve had a brilliant camp. I feel amazing. 

On her weight cut: 

The weight cut has been easy. My endurance is insane. My volume’s up. I’m ready to go.

On being an underdog: 

I was really dedicated with my amateur career. I loved the pathway that I was going. Things changed, turned pro. I’ve been hard-stepping ever since. 

On being overlooked: 

There have been articles that have already been released looking towards Elif [Nur Turhan] who’s here and Alycia [Baumgardner] and all these potential fights beyond me. But you can’t move past what you already have in front of you. I’m not going to allow it to be so. 

On her skills: 

I have such a skill level when it comes to being creative, adapting, and really seeing the things in real time and being able to adjust as you move forward. I’m unpredictable, and I think that’s been a really beautiful part of who I am: I have a ton of tools in my toolbox, and you never know which one I’ll pull out.

REINA TELLEZ QUOTES

On facing Barry: 

I just take this as another fight and to showcase my skills and show that I’m a better fighter than I was in my last fight.

On the pressure of Saturday’s bout: 

I feel like I never fold under pressure. 

On fighting in the UK: 

I’m not afraid to really go inside somebody’s backyard as I’ve shown before. 

On Barry not paying attention to her fighting style:

I can adapt to whatever she brings to the table or whatever she tries to do. So, if she lacks that experience with knowing who she’s coming in the ring with, then I feel like that’s on her and her team.

JESSICA BARRY QUOTES

On her previous boxing career setbacks: 

I think actually the setbacks have given me the time to mature as a boxer and actually learn a lot more and be ready for this time that I’m sat here now. So yeah, I’m really excited about it now.

On not focusing on Tellez as she prepares: 

I really don’t care because every time that I would be focusing on my opponent, I’m not focusing on being a better boxer myself. I’m fully focused on just developing myself as a boxer and my skills. 

On the pressure being on Tellez: 

I feel like the pressure is all on Reina [Tellez] for this fight. She’s the MVP-signed boxer. She’s been invested in and has been bought over here.

On her plan for Saturday night:

I’m just here to have fun and take that opportunity away from her.

TERRI HARPER QUOTES

On Saturday night’s pressure: 

I’ve seen she’s [Miranda Reyes] game. It’s a pressure fight for me. It’s a must-win fight. I can’t be losing two fights on the bounce because where does my career go from there?

On facing Reyes:

I know Miranda was saying yesterday that I’ve probably overlooked her, but that’s not the case at all. I’ve taken this fight very seriously like I would any other fight, and I know that I need to be the best version of me on Saturday night to get a good, dominant performance.

On Reyes saying she is on her way out:

I think if I had a pound for every time someone said they’re going to retire me, I could have probably retired off that money by now. So, you know, you’re not getting rid of me that easy. 

On fighting at 140 lbs: 

Obviously, coming off the last fight, I learned from that fight, and I’ll take it into the next fight. MVP came forward with a plan at 140, and I thought it was brilliant, and I’m grateful for the opportunity they’ve given me.

On her athleticism: 

I think as an athlete and as a competitive person, I always want to do better, be better, and keep improving.

MIRANDA REYES QUOTES

On facing Harper: 

It’s an honor to step in the ring with Terri Harper. Respectfully, she has accomplished a lot in the sport, but she’s on her way out. I’m going to lead her to that way, and on August 29th, you’re going to see a great fight.

On her plan for Saturday’s bout: 

Right now my mindset is right. I have a great team behind me, and we put in hard work. We all want the knockout, but if it has to go to deep waters, we’ll take it there.

On fighting in the UK: 

It’s just an honor to be back here in the UK. I love it here.

On representing Texas:

I’m proud to represent my country, my city, my state. I’m just here to make a statement without causing chaos.

TYSIE GALLAGHER QUOTES

On her plan for Saturday night: 

This is the biggest stage, but after the year or so I’ve had, I’ve just let go of every pressure in every aspect of my life. I never put pressure on myself, and I’m just going to go out there and enjoy it. When I do that, I perform the best.

On wanting to become the best of the super bantamweight division: 

Now it’s the start of showing everyone, the world, and myself exactly what I can go and do. I believe I’m going to the top of the super bantamweight division. I’m going to take over.

BRANDI ROBINSON QUOTES

On preparing to face Gallagher: 

I’m always in the gym, and I was prepared for the opportunity. 

On wanting to be a world champion: 

The ultimate goal for me is to be back at the world championship level with this sport, and I know it takes a lot of patience and timing. So, I’m in it. I’m in it to win it.

On Gallagher: 

I know she has 12 fights. I really think, honestly, the pressure is on her. I’m in her hometown. This is her country. Her people, her supporters, all her fans are here. So, the pressure is really on her to do whatever she’s going to do. I’m going to bring the best version of myself in the ring, and that’s it. I’m going to put on for my city and put on for my gym.

MVPW-07

ELIF NUR TURHAN QUOTES

***ALL QUOTES HAVE BEEN TRANSLATED FROM TURKISH TO ENGLISH.

On facing Baumgardner:

Whether it’s Alycia [Baumgardner] or any other fighter, if they prepared hard for me, I’m ready to fight them, and I’m ready to go.

On preparing to fight Baumgardner:

I don’t know how Alycia [Baumgardner] prepared for the fight, but all I know is I prepared for every single situation possible, and I know that I’m ready and I’m ready to go.

On if she thinks Baumgardner is underestimating her weight division:

I don’t think she’s taking me lightly. If she was taking me lightly, she wouldn’t be stepping up, and she wouldn’t be ready to fight me.

On competition in lightweight division:

You have to be a warrior to be in this division. I’m a warrior. It’s all about who prepares the best, and whoever prepares the best will come out victorious. 

ALYCIA BAUMGARDNER QUOTES

On her goal of becoming undisputed at 135:

I’m more than prepared for anything. To step up and to accept a challenge to fight somebody like Turhan, to step up to lightweight, this is nothing new to me. This is why I’m in boxing. This is why I was undisputed at 130 and why I will be undisputed at 135. It starts with her [Elif Nur Turhan].

On moving to lightweight: 

I’m still the underdog. I still have the mentality of an underdog. So, when I’m moving up to lightweight, there are no distractions because I know exactly what I’m supposed to do. 

On facing Turhan: 

I love this. I’m a competitor at heart, and I have somebody great to fight.

On Turhan’s power:

Her [Elif Nur Turhan] power is legitimate. Yes, we’ve seen that with her previous fights, but for

me, this is something that I’ve seen before. Skill pays the bills. Real skill. I know what it is to have great defense. I know what it is to shoot down the middle. I see all that wild punching. I see it. I’m blocking.

On Turhan vs. Baumgardner being the biggest fight in women’s boxing:

I think the super fight, the biggest fight right now in women’s boxing, is myself versus Turhan. So that’s the fight that people need to focus on.

On potentially facing the winner of Dubois vs. Moore:

I will fight whoever is next. You know, she [Caroline Dubois] has a big fight ahead of her this Saturday, and again, I will be undisputed at 135,

On being in the UK:

There’s a lot of history here. This is where I became world champion, and to be back here again in a different space, stepping up in another challenge. I’m so grateful for this.

On MVP supporting women’s boxing:

I’m very thankful to have Nakisa [Bidarian], Jake Paul, and MVP come together once again to have women on one platform and for women to get the opportunity to fight. That’s what we want to do. We want to fight. We want the exposure, and they have given us that. 

TIARA BROWN QUOTES

On facing Scotney:

She’s younger, she’s fast, she’s strong, but I’m well seasoned, and I’ve been boxing for a very long time. This belt, no one’s going to take it away from me. 

On Scotney attempting to take her WBC belt:

I know that she [Ellie Scotney] broke many records being the youngest, undisputed champion of the world [from the UK], and she’s coming up, and she wants to come for my belt, but listen, at the end of the day, the belt’s going to stay in America. 

On dedicating her fight to her loved ones, including former opponent Hannah Rapp:

I’m fighting for my loved ones. I’m fighting for my city, my town. In this fight against Ellie Scotney, I’ll be fighting with Hannah Rapp, the boxer who I just competed against. She just got her life taken away from her. I’m going to take her with me in the ring. So, it’s going to be a very tough night for Ellie Scotney.

On preparing to face Scotney:

I don’t do anything except train, and I train hard, and I’m not just fighting for myself. 

On her focus on defeating Scotney:

I live, I eat, I sleep, I breathe boxing. So, if anyone thinks that they’re going to beat me, it’s going to be a cold day in hell. Icicles made of sweat.

On Scotney’s skill:

She seems to be able to hold her own. She’s very strong. 

ELLIE SCOTNEY QUOTES

On facing Brown:

I’ve always said I feel like if you see the pattern of my career, I took the biggest and the best challenges, and that’s why I made it crystal clear as soon as I left that ring that was the name I wanted.

On wanting to become a two-weight world champion:

I knew as soon as I left that ring, it was what’s next, and becoming a two-weight world champion is what lies ahead.

On giving her best efforts vs. Brown:

I’ve always said that you’re going to see the best of me at featherweight. I feel like November the 8th, the fight I’ve got in front of me, that needs to be the case. I need to be the best of me, and that’s where you’re going to see it.

On where her focus lies:

All focus is on November the 8th, where the road to undisputed starts again. 

On progress on getting a driver’s license for the car Jake Paul purchased for her:

I still haven’t got a license. I probably shouldn’t say this cuz there’s going to be a lot of pressure on me, but my driving test is five days after my fight. So, God willing, there are two victories.

On her feelings after becoming undisputed:

I think what I got from becoming undisputed was a level of peace. Again, it’s just all about what’s to come now.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) is a global combat sports and entertainment company built for the next generation of athletes and fans. The company operates across boxing, mixed martial arts, live events, media, content, athlete development, and global distribution, with a fighter-first philosophy centered on equitable compensation, maximum visibility, and long-term brand building.

Led by co-founders Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian and Chief Executive Officer John Martin and backed by founding investors 885 Capital & Knighthead, MVP promotes some of the world’s biggest combat sports events and represents a roster of nearly 400 elite athletes, including world champions, titleholders, contenders, and emerging stars. MVP’s portfolio includes MVP, MVPW, and MVP MMA, bringing together premier boxing and mixed martial arts properties under one global brand.

Through partnerships with leading media and distribution platforms including Netflix, ESPN, Sky Sports, and an extensive international network reaching fans across more than 170 countries, MVP delivers world-class competition and entertainment to audiences worldwide. By combining elite athletes, premium live events, compelling storytelling, and global media reach, MVP is building the future of combat sports.

ARLINGTON, TEXAS – August 25, 2026 – Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) today announced MVPW-07, a championship supercard with a quadruple world championship event at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas on Sunday, November 8, live on ESPN and the ESPN App, headlined by MVP and Dallas, Texas’ unified super featherweight world champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner (18-1, 7 KOs), who will step up to 135lbs seeking to become a two-division world champion when she challenges MVP’s newest signee, Turkey’s undefeated IBF lightweight world champion, the “Golden Turkish Warrior” Elif Nur Turhan (14-0, 8 KOs), in a 10-round championship bout with three-minute rounds for the IBF lightweight world title. Baumgardner enters the matchup following a dominant run as unified champion at super featherweight and now takes on one of the most dangerous punchers in women’s boxing in Turhan, who claimed the IBF lightweight world title with a stunning TKO victory over previously unbeaten Brazilian Olympic gold medalist Beatriz Ferreira and enters her third world title defense. 

MVPW on ESPN showcases the sport’s most elite fighters with championship bouts on every card and will always feature a main card composed entirely of female fighters, with an undercard including a mix of female and male bouts. The Arlington Sports Commission will serve as Host Partner for the event. Fans can sign up for MVPW-07 Presale HERE. Tickets will go on sale Thursday, September 10 at 11am ET / 10am CT at AXS.com. All media interested in being credentialed for MVPW-07 must apply HERE.

Elif Nur Turhan said: “Alycia is a boxer who steps into the ring determined to win, never even entertaining the possibility of defeat; I know I am proud to be representing Turkiye on such a major international stage as I face an opponent who steps into the ring solely for victory. I do not want to lose, either. As two boxers sharing a ‘win at all costs’ mentality, we guarantee a fierce, relentless battle where everything is left on the line. Two warriors, one fight, and only one winner.”

Alycia Baumgardner said: “When I set my mind to something, I see it through, and 135 will be no different. Sunday, November 8 is a superfight—the kind of fight boxing deserves—and the beginning of my next chapter. I know what it takes to become undisputed. I’ve done it before, and I’ll do it again. To everyone in Dallas-Fort Worth and Arlington, this is my backyard, and I want you there with me. Come out to College Park Center, be part of the moment, and watch me make history.”

In the co-main event, MVP’s and Ft. Myers, Florida’s reigning WBC featherweight world champion Tiara Brown (21-0, 11 KOs) will make a 10-round defense at 126lbs against MVP’s and Catford, London, England’s former undisputed champion Ellie Scotney (12-0), who steps up to 126lbs seeking to become a two-division world champion. Turhan and Baumgardner and Brown and Scotney will come face-to-face for the first time at the official MVPW-07 kickoff press conference on Thursday, August 27 at 3pm BST / 10am ET at bp pulse LIVE arena in Birmingham, England ahead of the MVPW-06 final fight week press conference. 

Tiara Brown said: “She may have been the youngest undisputed champion in UK history, but I’m not stepping into the ring to admire her history. I’m stepping in to make my own. I’m a seasoned veteran who has been overlooked, but never outworked. Come fight night, we’ll see who’s truly built for greatness.”

Ellie Scotney said: “I can’t wait for the next chapter to begin at 126lbs, where I truly believe the world will see the best of me. It’s time to make more history on Sunday, November the 8th and become a two-weight world champion.”

Also joining the main card, MVP’s and Australia’s reigning WBC super bantamweight world champion at 122lbs, two-division champion, and 2020 Olympian Skye Nicolson (16-1, 3 KOs) will make her highly anticipated MVP debut in a 10-round title defense against Japan’s three-time, two-division world champion Miyo Yoshida (19-5, 1 KO). 

Skye Nicolson said: “I’m excited to announce we have a new date locked in. Having to withdraw due to injury was incredibly frustrating, especially after everything that went into preparing for this fight, but unfortunately these things happen in elite sport. The focus now is completely on moving forward and taking on Miyo Yoshida in what I know will be a great fight. I’m looking forward to getting back in there, putting on a big performance and making sure everyone and anyone in my way is officially put on notice. This delay has only made me hungrier. I’ll be ready to make a big statement for Australia on fight night and finish the year exactly where I want to be.” 

Miyo Yoshida said: “Many people see Skye Nicolson as the favorite and I understand why as she is an excellent fighter. But I have dedicated my life to boxing and I am prepared to give everything for this opportunity. I promise the fans will see a fearless Miyo Yoshida. I will bring the heart of Japan, my experience as a three-time World Champion and everything I have into this fight. On fight night, I believe the world will see me crowned as the new WBC super bantamweight champion.”

Rounding out the quadruple world championship main card, MVP’s multi-talented Somali-British boxer, activist, and high-fashion model Ramla Ali (11-2, 3 KOs) will face New York’s undefeated Mikiah Kreps (11-0, 3 KOs) in a 10-round championship bout for the vacant WBO and IBF super bantamweight world titles at 122lbs.

Ramla Ali said: “People assume the hardest fights of my life happened in a ring, under lights, with a bell to tell you when it’s over. They didn’t. The real fights never had a bell. They lasted years, some of them are still going. Every time a door closed, I found another way through. That’s the one true thing anyone could say about me: I’m relentless in my pursuit of anything I do. Mikiah and I have sparred probably a hundred rounds together. I have a lot of respect for her, and I know her journey in boxing hasn’t been easy either. We both know we’ll leave everything in that ring on Sunday, November 8th, the same way we left everything in every round of sparring that got us here. What does sit heavy with me is that so many of the people who made this possible won’t be able to watch it happen live as a result of new travel bans on Somalis and people who have travelled to Somalia. I would have loved to fight this one in London, where I was raised and haven’t competed in for four years. But that’s never been how my path has worked, I always seem to take the harder route, and I’ve made peace with that, because nothing worth having has ever come easy, and these titles are worth everything.”

Mikiah Kreps said: “I’ve been working toward this moment since I was a little girl watching my mom train in the boxing gym, and I’m ready for it. Fighting for my first world title means everything to me, but I’m not coming just to fight for a championship — I’m coming to win it.  I appreciate MVP, DBE, and Team Kreps for working together to make this fight happen, and I’m grateful to the WBO & IBF for the opportunity to fight for a unified title.  I can’t wait to step in the ring and show the world what I can do.”  

Nakisa Bidarian and Jake Paul, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions said: “MVPW-07 is one of the biggest championship events in boxing history, with four back-to-back world title fights, bringing together eight elite fighters from around the world with belts at stake in every matchup. Elif Nur Turhan joined MVP to take on the biggest fights in the sport, and in her first event under the MVP banner she will defend her IBF lightweight world title against pound-for-pound great Alycia Baumgardner, one of the most dominant champions of this generation, as Alycia steps up to 135 pounds in pursuit of becoming a two-division world champion. Undefeated WBC featherweight champion Tiara Brown will defend her title against the undefeated former undisputed champion and ESPN’s 2025 Female Boxer of the Year Ellie Scotney, who moves up to 126 pounds seeking to become a two-division world champion. Two-division champion Skye Nicolson will make her MVP debut, defending her WBC super bantamweight world title against three-time, two-division champion Miyo Yoshida, and Ramla Ali faces undefeated Mikiah Kreps for the vacant WBO and IBF super bantamweight world titles at 122lbs. Four world championship fights. One massive night for boxing. Live on ESPN from Arlington, Texas.”

Further information, including additional bouts, will be announced in the coming weeks.

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions, or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions.

About Elif Nur Turhan

Reigning IBF lightweight world champion at 135lbs Elif Nur Turhan has taken women’s boxing by storm over the past two years having established her reputation as one of the most dangerous and devastating punchers in the sport. The ‘Golden Turkish Warrior’ hails from Istanbul, Turkey, and boasts a flawless record of 14-0 with eight victories by way of knockout. Turhan captured the world title in December 2025 in Monte-Carlo with a remarkable upset: a fifth-round stoppage over Brazil’s previously unbeaten Olympic hero Beatriz Ferreira. The 31-year-old sensation, who turned pro four years ago, has since successfully defended her crown with wins over Taylah Gentzen in Newcastle, England, in January 2026 and again against Gabriella Tellez in June 2026 in Arizona. Now Turhan is excited for what comes next with the Turkish star determined to capture more major titles. Turhan signed with MVP in August 2026 as part of MVP’s strategic alliance with Matchroom Boxing. She is currently ranked ESPN’s #3 talent in the world in the lightweight division.  

About Alycia Baumgardner

MVP’s reigning unified WBO, WBA, and IBF super featherweight world champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner is one of the most electrifying superstars in boxing today and one of the most dominant athletes in the sport. Born in Fremont, Ohio, and of Korean, German, and African-American descent, she has built a career defined by power, precision, and resilience. Her success is fueled not only by her relentless work ethic but also by her deep faith, which guides her journey both in and out of the ring. Baumgardner turned pro in 2017, making an immediate impact with a first-round TKO victory. In November 2021, she shocked the boxing world by knocking out Terri Harper in Sheffield, England, to claim the WBC and IBO world titles. She followed with wins over Edith Matthysse and Mikaela Mayer, adding the WBO and IBF belts to her collection. In February 2023, she became undisputed, defeating Elhem Mekhaled in New York to claim the WBA title. In July 2023, Baumgardner avenged her only career loss with a dominant win over Christina Linardatou in Detroit, successfully defending her undisputed crown. She returned in September 2024 against Delfine Persoon, scoring an early knockdown before an accidental clash of heads led to a no-contest ruling. She defended her undisputed title in the co-main event of Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 3, live on Netflix, before making a 12×3:00 unified world title defense vs. Leila Beaudoin in the co-main event of MVP’s Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day live on Netflix in December 2025–becoming just the second woman in boxing history to defend her unified world titles under equal rules to men’s champions. Most recently, Baumgardner headlined MVPW’s inaugural U.S. event on ESPN, earning a unanimous decision victory over Bo Mi Re Shin in a unified title defense contested with three-minute rounds. Outside the ring, Baumgardner is breaking barriers for women, proving that skill, strength, and marketability can coexist at the highest level.

About Tiara Brown

MVP’s reigning WBC featherweight world champion Tiara Brown holds a career built on an exceptional amateur pedigree, technical excellence, and championship-level discipline. Long before capturing world honors in the professional ranks, Brown established herself as one of the most accomplished amateurs in the United States, becoming a multiple-time US national champion, competing at the highest levels of USA Boxing and consistently defeating top-tier competition across the country, culminating with a gold medal at the 2012 amateur world championships. That foundation seamlessly translated into the pro ranks, where her experience, composure, and adaptability have set her apart on the world stage. Brown’s style showcases speed, sharp fundamentals, and intelligent pressure. She is equally comfortable boxing off the back foot or engaging in high-paced exchanges, making her one of the most technically sound and versatile fighters in women’s boxing today. Representing Philadelphia, Pennsylvania’s proud boxing tradition, Brown defeated Skye Nicolson in March 2025 to claim the WBC featherweight title before successfully defending the belt against Emma Gongara in September 2025 and again against challenger Hannah Rapp in June 2026. She was ranked among ESPN’s best women’s boxers of 2025, and is now  ranked Boxrec’s #10 pound-for-pound female fighter, and ESPN’s #2 featherweight talent globally. 

About Ellie Scotney

MVP’s former undisputed super bantamweight world champion Ellie Scotney became the youngest in UK history, male or female, to become undisputed champion in April 2026. The Catford, England native made her pro debut in 2020. In her seventh pro fight, Scotney dethroned former 122lb champion Cherneka Johnson by UD to become the new IBF world champion. Scotney successfully defended her IBF belt against Laura Griffa in September 2023 before unifying the division and adding the WBO and Ring Magazine titles to her collection in a UD win over then-undefeated 18-0 champion Segolene Lefebvre. The 27-year-old faced the longest-standing division champion, former WBC titlist Yamileth Mercado on the Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 3 all-women’s card live on Netflix, winning by UD and adding the WBC belt to her unified collection. The outstanding performance earned her recognition as ESPN’s 2025 Female Boxer of the Year, which she followed by defeating then-WBA titlist Mayelli Flores in the co-main event of MVPW-01 in April 2026 to claim the undisputed world title and become the youngest in the United Kingdom’s history, male or female, to become an undisputed boxing champion. Scotney is currently ranked Boxrec’s #6, ESPN’s #9, and Ring Magazine’s #9 pound-for-pound boxer globally, as well as ESPN’s #1 super bantamweight in the world. 

About Skye Nicolson

Skye Nicolson was born and raised in Queensland, Australia to an English mother and Scottish father. She began boxing at age 12, following in the footsteps of her late brother. Her stellar amateur career saw over 150 fights around the world including a Commonwealth Games gold medal, bronze at the amateur world championships, and representing Team Australia in the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, where she finished as a quarter-finalist. Off the back of the Olympics, she signed a long-term promotional deal with Matchroom and began a very active professional career that skyrocketed her to her first world title in just her 10th professional fight, defeating Sarah Mahfoud for the WBC featherweight title in 2024. Now 16-1 as a professional, Nicolson most recently rose to Interim champion and mandatory challenger for the WBC 122lbs title. Shortly after, the belt was vacated by former undisputed champion Ellie Scotney, and Nicolson was elevated to become a two-time, two-division WBC world champion in May 2026. Entering this next chapter under the MVP and Matchroom strategic alliance, the 30-year-old prepares to unify the super bantamweight division and aims to be part of the biggest fights in women’s boxing. She is currently ranked ESPN’s #2 super bantamweight globally.

About Miyo Yoshida

Miyo Yoshida is a three-time, two-division world champion from Kagoshima, Japan. A former IBF bantamweight world champion and two-time WBO junior bantamweight world champion, Yoshida has established herself as one of Japan’s most accomplished female fighters. She made history as one of only a handful of Japanese women to win world titles in multiple weight classes and has earned recognition for her technical skill, resilience, and championship pedigree. Known as the “Fighting Single Mother” in Japan, Yoshida is a former The Ring Most Inspirational Female Fighter award recipient and a revered role model both inside and outside the ring. After relocating to the United States, she now trains at the legendary Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn, New York. Yoshida most recently earned a victory over Edith de Jesus Flores in April 2026, following a unanimous decision win over Beata Dudek in February 2025. She captured the IBF bantamweight world title with a dominant unanimous decision over Ebanie Bridges in December 2023 after accepting the fight on less than two weeks’ notice.

About Ramla Ali

Ramla Ali is a 35-year-old Somali-British professional boxer, philanthropist, high-fashion model, and social activist. Born in Somalia, Ali and her family fled the country following the loss of her brother in a grenade attack and civil unrest. At age 12, she took up boxing in secret to overcome bullying and obesity, becoming the first Muslim woman to win national amateur boxing titles in England in 2015 and 2016 before making history as the first female boxer to represent Somalia at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. She made her pro debut in October 2020, winning the vacant IBF Intercontinental title at Madison Square Garden in New York in 2023 in just her 8th pro fight before winning the WBA International super bantamweight title in a hard-fought rematch against Mexico’s Julissa Alejandra Guzman later that year. A passionate advocate for women’s rights and women in boxing, Ali established the Somali Boxing Federation in Mogadishu, Somalia. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the fight for women’s equality, Ali was one of twelve extraordinary leaders named among TIME’s 2023 Women of the Year.

About Mikiah Kreps

Mikiah Kreps is an undefeated American professional boxer from Niagara Falls, NY, and a former elite member of Team USA.  A lifelong boxer who first stepped into the gym at five years old when her mother was training for amateur fights, Kreps achieved an accomplished amateur career of more than 75 bouts, winning multiple national championships and a bronze medal at the 2019 World Championships before turning pro.

Kreps has built an 11-0 record as a professional and has established herself among the elite of the Super Bantamweight division. She is currently ranked #1 in the world by both the WBO and IBF, positioning her for the biggest opportunity of her career: her first shot at a world championship and for a unified title.

Trained by Manny Robles and known for her relentless pressure, explosive power, slick combinations, and high ring IQ, Kreps brings an aggressive and technically polished style to the ring. Now, with a world title within reach, she is looking to turn years of preparation and sacrifice into the first chapter of a championship legacy.

About MVP

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) is a global combat sports and entertainment company built for the next generation of athletes and fans. The company operates across boxing, mixed martial arts, live events, media, content, athlete development, and global distribution, with a fighter-first philosophy centered on equitable compensation, maximum visibility, and long-term brand building.

Led by co-founders Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian and Chief Executive Officer John Martin and backed by founding investors 885 Capital & Knighthead, MVP promotes some of the world’s biggest combat sports events and represents a roster of nearly 400 elite athletes, including world champions, titleholders, contenders, and emerging stars. MVP’s portfolio includes MVP, MVPW, and MVP MMA, bringing together premier boxing and mixed martial arts properties under one global brand.

Through partnerships with leading media and distribution platforms including Netflix, ESPN, Sky Sports, and an extensive international network reaching fans across more than 170 countries, MVP delivers world-class competition and entertainment to audiences worldwide. By combining elite athletes, premium live events, compelling storytelling, and global media reach, MVP is building the future of combat sports.

About ESPN

ESPN offers its full suite of networks and services directly to fans on the ESPN App, providing more choice, flexibility and access to all of ESPN, including more than 47,000 live events per year, on-demand replays, industry-leading studio shows and original programming, and more. The ESPN App gives fans a unique viewing experience that includes multiview and synchronized two-screen viewing options, swipe-able vertical video and a personalized SportsCenter For You, as well as integrated game stats, ESPN Fantasy sports, betting odds and information from DraftKings, sports merchandise, and more. These features are available to all fans who watch on the ESPN App on mobile and connected TV devices, whether they subscribe directly or through a pay TV package. Bundling options available for fans include a limited time offer for the ESPN DTC Unlimited plan with Disney+ and Hulu for $29.99/month for the first 12 months. For more visit stream.espn.com.

About the Arlington Sports Commission 

As a division of the Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Arlington Sports Commission recruits and supports high-impact youth, amateur, collegiate, professional and international sporting events to Arlington, driving economic impact and reinforcing the city’s status as one of the nation’s premier sports destinations. With world-class stadiums, professional sports teams, strong local connections and a team that knows how to make big events happen, Arlington delivers unforgettable sports experiences at every level. To learn more, visit arlingtonsportscommission.org.

About College Park Center

College Park Center (CPC) is a 7,000-seat multipurpose arena which opened in 2012 on the campus of the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). It is the home court for the Dallas Wings of the WNBA, the UTA basketball and volleyball programs, and offers professional class training facilities. In addition, CPC is host to concerts, professional wrestling and boxing, world-renowned speaker events, graduation ceremonies, banquets, various local education events and more, in total averaging over 140 events per year.

NEW YORK, NY – August 12, 2026 — Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) today announced the signing of Turkey’s undefeated IBF lightweight world champion at 135lbs Elif Nur Turhan (14-0, 8 KOs), who becomes the first Turkish fighter to join MVP and the second fighter to compete under the promotion’s newly announced strategic alliance with Matchroom Boxing. Turhan now joins MVP after cementing her status as one of the world’s best with a fifth-round knockout of Brazilian Olympic gold medalist and previously unbeaten world champion Beatriz Ferreira to capture the IBF lightweight world title. The alliance is focused on accelerating the continued global growth of women’s boxing, with Matchroom working alongside MVP to support Turhan through the next phase of her professional career.

Turhan’s MVP debut will be announced at a later date. She follows Australia’s two-division champion, reigning WBC super bantamweight world champion at 122lbs, and 2020 Australian Olympian Skye Nicolson, who became the first fighter to join MVP under the strategic alliance with Matchroom Boxing. Turhan also joins MVP’s loaded lightweight division as the reigning IBF world champion, alongside fellow MVP world champions unified WBC and WBO 135lb champion, Team Great Britain Olympian, and #10 pound-for-pound fighter Caroline Dubois and WBA lightweight champion Stephanie Han.

Reigning IBF World Lightweight Champion Elif Turhan has taken women’s boxing by storm over the past two years having established her reputation as one of the most dangerous and devastating punchers in the sport. The ‘Golden Turkish Warrior’ hails from Istanbul, Turkey, and boasts a flawless record of 14-0 with eight victories by way of knockout. Turhan captured the World Title last December in Monte-Carlo with a remarkable fifth round stoppage over Brazil’s previously unbeaten Olympic hero Beatriz Ferreira. The 31-year-old sensation, who turned pro four years ago, has since successfully defended her crown with wins over Gabriella Tellez, back in June in Arizona, and Taylah Gentzen in Newcastle, England, in January. Now Turhan is excited for what comes next with the Turkish star determined to capture more major titles.

Elif Nur Turhan said: “I hope that thanks to the partnership between Matchroom Boxing and MVP, the world’s two largest boxing promotion companies, women’s boxing will soon reach the level it deserves. I am incredibly excited to be part of this powerful collaboration. This marks a major signal of the exciting initiatives we will undertake for women’s boxing globally, and I am deeply honored to be involved in this journey with all my strength and energy. Forces have been joined; as female boxers, we will now move forward with greater strength. I am excited for the opportunities that will come my way as I look to win more major World Titles.”

Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions, said: “Elif Nur Turhan is an undefeated world champion, a tremendous puncher, and now the first Turkish fighter to join the MVP roster. The Golden Turkish Warrior is one of the most exciting fighters in boxing given her immense punching power and her relentless aggressive, pressure heavy style. Signing Elif will allow us to make some of the most exciting fights in boxing. We look forward to welcoming Elif to MVP and giving her the platform to become one of the biggest stars in women’s boxing as we continue building MVPW into the premier global home for the sport. Haydi!

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions, or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions and @elfturhann.

About MVP

Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) is a global combat sports and entertainment company built for the next generation of athletes and fans. The company operates across boxing, mixed martial arts, live events, media, content, athlete development, and global distribution, with a fighter-first philosophy centered on equitable compensation, maximum visibility, and long-term brand building.

Led by co-founders Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian and Chief Executive Officer John Martin and backed by founding investors 885 Capital & Knighthead, MVP promotes some of the world’s biggest combat sports events and represents a roster of nearly 400 elite athletes, including world champions, titleholders, contenders, and emerging stars. MVP’s portfolio includes MVP, MVPW, and MVP MMA, bringing together premier boxing and mixed martial arts properties under one global brand.

Through partnerships with leading media and distribution platforms including Netflix, ESPN, Sky Sports, and an extensive international network reaching fans across more than 170 countries, MVP delivers world-class competition and entertainment to audiences worldwide. By combining elite athletes, premium live events, compelling storytelling, and global media reach, MVP is building the future of combat sports.

By Norm Frauenheim

GLENDALE, Ariz. Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez added a third division title with his sixth round knockout of Antonio Vargas Saturday, yet his career goal of a showdown with Naoya Inoue remained unclear in the immediate aftermath of his successful debut at bantamweight.

Trainer Robert Garcia said he wanted Bam to fight once more at 118 pounds before any deal is made to face Inoue.

“We’ve talked about January or February, next year, for the Inoue fight,’’ Garcia Said after Bam knocked down Vargas after some rocky moments in front of a roaring crowd åt Desert Diamond Arena. “We can still do that. That doesn’t have to change.But I want Bam to have one more fight at 118. We can do that in September or October.’’

Bam (24-0, 17 KOs) struggled at times in the early going against Vargas, who leaned on him and backed him up with a succession of punches.

Not until the fifth round did Bam make a key adjustment. It started where it usually does: His feet. With his singular footwork, he stepped to the left of Vargas (19-2-1, 11KOs) and delivered a textbook left hand, putting the World Boxing Association’s defending champion onto the canvas.

In the sixth, Bam did it again, this time ending Vargas’ one-fight reign as the WBA champion.

In an interview inside the ring, Bam was asked about Inoue.

“If you’re asking me if I’m ready, I’m going to say yes,’’ he said. “I’m going to say yes I’m ready for anyone and yes I’m ready for whatever my team plans next.”

This Cardenas scores unanimous decision, wins rematchtime there was no debate. No trash talk either.

Arturo Cardenas made sure of it Saturday, scoring a unanimous decision over Jordan Martinez in a rematch at Desert Diamond Arena.

“I did what I didn’t last time, said Cardenas (18-0-2), who fought Martinez to a draw in early February.” I was aggressive early. I didn’t give away those rounds.’’

Martinez (16-1-1), a popular Phoenix fighter, didn’t quarrel with the result, despite at least one debatable score, a 100-90 shutout. On the other cards, it was 98-92 and 97-93, both for Cardenas

Turkish champion retains belt in narrow win over Gabby Tellez

Elif Nur Turhan kept the belt. Gabby Tellez got the cheers.

In a close and somewhat awkward fight for the women’s International Boxing Federation lightweight title Saturday at Desert Diamond Arena, the bigger Turhan sustained an aggressive pace, scoring enough points on the scorecards for a unanimous decision — 96-94 on all cards — over Tellez (7-1, 3 KOs).

With Phoenix trainer Jose Benavidez Jr. in her corner, Tellez circled Turhan, a powerful Turk, throughout the 10 rounds. Turhan landed a couple of long punches in the final couple of rounds, which might have been just enough to claim a victory that allowed here to take the belt back to Turkey

Terraza wins quick stoppage

Terraza said he knew victory was just a matter of time.

That time came swiftly.

And decisively.

Within two rounds, Terraza, an unbeaten junior-lightweight from Mexico, overwhelmed a shorter Javier Rodriguez, who was down midway through the round and finished within its final few seconds. 

Rodriguez (10-1, 6 KOs), who grew up in the Glendale neighborhood surrounding Desert Diamond Arena, simply had no counter for Terreza’s  reach. Terraza (14-0, 10 KOs) knocked him down with an overhand right and then folllowed with successive punches from all angles.

Trini Ochoa lands right to land back in win column

Trini Ochoa, a popular junior welterweight from Mesa, got back into the win column Saturday. All he needed was a right hand.

It landed, flooring Tristan Perez (12-5-1, 7 KOs) Saturday in a stunning second round at Desert Diamond Arena. Ochoa was coming off his first defeat

Esquina delivers punishing stoppage

It was punishing.

Punishing mostly for Sepu Taylor.

Xechal Esquina, an undefeated featherweight from Phoenix, tirelessly moved forward for six-plus rounds, landing shots that echoed throughout Desert Diamond Saturday on a card featuring Bam Rodriguez-Antonio Vargas.

Somehow, Taylor (1-2-1), of Denver stay edupright. Early in the sixth, however, he began to back away on unsteady feet, At 2:39 of the round, he was down. And done, a bruised stoppage loser to a relentless attack Esquina (6-0, 5 KOs).

Hector Beltran wins second round TKO

Hector Beltran Jr., who calls himself Handsome, must have looked scary to Shaquile Felicia.

Beltran (8-0, 6 KOs), a junior-middleweight From Dallas, threw a quick combo that dropped Felicia (3-2). It also left Felicia with a look that seemed to say he’d rather be back home in Anchorage. Seconds and few more combos later, he was finished, a TKO loser at 2:53 of the round.

First Bell: Ronny Alvarez stoppage opens the show

With temperatures pushing 110 degrees, a small crowd began to escape and gather inside Desert Diamond Arena.

Anything for a little air conditioning.

In the ring, however, Cuban super-middleweight Ronny Alvarez (7-0, 6 KOs) continued to pour on the heat, scoring a seventh round stoppage of Serbia Flip Stankovic (9-4, 6 KOs) Saturday afternoon in the opening bout on a card featuring Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez-Antonio Vargas.  

GLENDALE, AZ (June 5, 2026) – Boxlab Promotions’ undefeated lightweight contender Gabriela “Sosa” Tellez (7-0, 3 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas, will face the biggest challenge of her young professional career when she takes on IBF Lightweight World Champion, Elif Nur Turhan (13-0, 8 KOs) of Istanbul, Türkiye, on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.

The 10-round world title showdown will be featured as part of an action-packed card promoted by Matchroom Boxing in association with Boxlab Promotions and will stream live worldwide on DAZN.

For Tellez, the opportunity represents the realization of a lifelong dream. After compiling an undefeated professional record and steadily climbing the lightweight ranks, the talented Texan now stands one victory away from becoming a world champion. As she prepares for the most important night of her boxing journey, Tellez says the magnitude of the moment has only strengthened her determination.

Speaking about her first opportunity to fight for a world championship, Tellez reflected on the years of sacrifice that brought her to this stage.

“This is everything I’ve worked for since I first stepped into a boxing gym,” said Tellez. “Every early morning run, every hard sparring session, every sacrifice my family and I made has led to this opportunity. To be fighting for my first world title is a dream come true. I want to seize the moment and bring that championship belt home. Opportunities like this don’t come around often, and I’m approaching this fight with complete focus and gratitude. I’ve visualized this moment for years, and now that it’s here, I’m ready to prove that I belong among the best fighters in the world.”

Training under renowned coach Jose Benavidez Sr. in Arizona has provided Tellez with the confidence and preparation she believes will be necessary against an undefeated champion-caliber opponent. Providing an update on training camp, Tellez praised the work being done behind the scenes as she enters the final stages of preparation.

“Training camp has been incredible,” Tellez stated. “Working with Jose Benavidez Sr. and the entire team has pushed me to another level both physically and mentally. We’ve studied every aspect of Turhan’s style and have built a game plan that brings out the best in me. Every day in camp has been about improving, learning, and preparing for a world championship atmosphere. I feel stronger, faster, and more confident than ever before. The work has already been done, and now it’s about staying focused and bringing everything together on fight night. This will be the best version of Gabriela Tellez that the fans have ever seen.”

While the world title is the immediate goal, Tellez understands that a victory would have a far-reaching impact on both her career and the community that has supported her from the beginning. Discussing what winning the IBF title would mean, Tellez spoke passionately about representing her hometown of San Antonio.

“Winning this title would change my life, but it would also mean so much to the people who have supported me from day one,” said Tellez. “San Antonio has always embraced fighters who work hard and represent the city with pride. I want young girls and young athletes back home to see that no dream is too big if you’re willing to work for it. Becoming a world champion would open new doors in my career, but more importantly, it would give me the chance to inspire others. I want my story to show people that success is possible no matter where you come from. Bringing a world championship back to San Antonio would be one of the proudest moments of my life.”

The June 13 event will mark the highest-profile appearance of Tellez’s career, with boxing fans from around the globe watching live on DAZN. When discussing the opportunity to perform on a worldwide platform, Tellez embraced the spotlight and the responsibility that comes with it.

“This is the kind of stage every fighter dreams about,” Tellez said. “Millions of people will have the chance to watch this fight on DAZN, and I’m excited to show the world my God given talent. I don’t look at the spotlight as pressure…I look at it as an opportunity. This platform gives me a chance to showcase my skills, my heart, and everything I’ve worked so hard to achieve. I want fans tuning in from Texas, from across the United States, and from around the world to see a fighter who refuses to back down from a challenge. Fighting on a stage like this motivates me to perform at my absolute best and leave no doubt that I belong at the championship level.”

Boxlab Promotions President Amaury Piedra expressed his excitement about Tellez reaching the world championship stage and praised her dedication throughout her professional journey.

“We couldn’t be happier for Gabriela and everything she has accomplished to earn this opportunity,” said Piedra. “From the moment she joined Boxlab Promotions, we saw someone with tremendous talent, determination, and a genuine passion for the sport. She has grown tremendously with each fight, and her development both inside and outside the ring has been remarkable. This is the her time to shine.

Elif Nur Turhan has signed a new multi-fight extension with Matchroom Boxing and will make the first defence of her IBF World Lightweight Title on Saturday, January 31 in Newcastle – live on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN.

The ‘Golden Turk’ Turhan (12-0, 8 KOs) last month solidified her reputation as one of the most dangerous female fighters on the planet when she captured the crown in Monte-Carlo with a fifth round demolition job over Brazil’s then unbeaten Olympic hero Beatriz Ferreira. 

It completed an incredible 2025 for the 30-year-old having previously knocked out both Shauna Browne and Rima Ayadi.

Now Turhan will kickstart her 2026 campaign with the first defence of her World Title at the end of this month against Australia’s Taylah Gentzen at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena on an exciting undercard headlined by Bakhram Murtazaliev’s IBF Super Welterweight World Championship clash with the North-East’s own, Josh Kelly. 

Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn is thrilled to see Turhan put pen to paper on fresh terms as he plots her path to winning more titles and eventually becoming the undisputed ruler of the 135lb division. 

“Elif is the hardest female puncher, pound-for-pound, no question – in fact, she is is one of the fiercest fighters on the planet today,” said Hearn.

“I’m thrilled to have signed Elif to a new deal with Matchroom because there are many huge nights waiting for her. I think a fight with WBC World Champion, Caroline Dubois, is one of the best bouts you can make in boxing. 

“First, Elif must take care of business against Taylah Gentzen. I’m expecting another knockout performance to light up what is a great night of boxing on January 31 with a brilliant Murtazaliev-Kelly undercard in Newcastle before we switch across the pond to The Ring 6 in New York City for Teofimo-Shakur – all live and exclusive to watch on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN.”

Josh Padley, meanwhile, challenges Jaouad Belmehdi for the vacant EBU Super Featherweight Championship in Newcastle. 

Padley said: “We’re off to a flying start to the new year. I am really looking forward to this one, especially with it being a major title on the road back to world title contention. A big win here puts me in the picture for the big fights.”

Heavyweight wonderkid Leo Atang looks ahead to his fifth professional contest in Newcastle, whilst stablemate and Cruiserweight prospect Brad Casey bids to maintain his winning streak to life in the pro ranks.

Commonwealth Games silver medalist amateur standout and North-East native Kiaran MacDonald makes his long-awaited professional debut. Plus, rising hometown Super Bantamweight fan favourite Lee Rogers will be out to stretch his record to 7-0.

And don’t blink as we look forward to a pulsating North-East derby between Newcastle’s unbeaten Josh Blenkiron and Jarrow’s undefeated Robbie Colman for the Northern Area Lightweight title. 

For the latest ticket news and updates on this event, head to matchroomboxing.com.

Shabaz Masoud won a 10-round unanimous decision over Peter McGrail in a super bantamweight bout in Monte Carlo.

Maoud, 121.9 lbs of Stoke-on-Trent, ENG won by scores of 116-111, 115-112 and 114-113 and is now 15-0. McGrail, 121.7 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 12-2.

Turhan Stops Ferreira in 5 To Win IBF Lightweight Title

Elif Nur Turhan stopped Beatriz Ferreira in round five to win the IBF Lightweight title.

In round one, Turhan dropped Ferreita with a hard right right. Seconds later, another big right dropped Ferreira for a second time. In round five Turhan landed a booming right that sent Ferreira into the corner that set off a 14 punch flurry where several flush head shots that put Ferreira down. Ferreira got to her feet but the fight was stopped at 1:08.

Turhan, 134.3 lbs of Istanbul, TUR is 12-0 with eight knockouts. Ferreira, 134.6 lbs of Salvador, BRA is 8-1.

Fisher Stops Balaz in 4

Johnny Fisher stopped previously undefeated Ivan Balaz in round four of their 10-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Fisher was docked a point for a low blow. In round four, Fisher scored a knockdown when he landed a left to the head. Fisher scored a second knockdown with another right. Seconds later, Fisher ended the fight with a hard right that put Balaz down to a knee and the fight was stopped at 1:19.

Fisher, 242.1 lbs of Romford, ENG is 14-1 with 12 knockouts. Balaz of Prague, CZE us 7-1.

Walker Stops McCormack in 12th

Conah Walker stopped previously undefeated Pat McCormack in the 12th and final round of their welterweight bout.

In round 12, McCormack was bleeding from around his left eye. Later in the round, Walker landed an unrelenting flurry that put McCormack through the ropes. McCormack tried to beat the count, but was unable at 2:16.

Walker, 146.9 lbs of Wolverhampton, ENG is 17-3-1 with eight knockouts. McCormack, 147 lbs of Wasminson, ENG is 8-1.

Sean McComb stopped previously undefeated Hugo Micallef in round eight of their 10-round juniorr welterweight bout.

In round three, McComb dropped Micallef with a straight left to the head.

In round six, McComb dropped Micallef with a left to the body. In round eight, McComb landed another left on the ropes that put Micallef down and the fight was stopped at 2:35.

McComb, 139.7 lbs of Belfast, NI is 21-2 with six knockouts. Micallef, 138.9 lbs of Monte Carlo, MON is 11-1.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBRA0oKdF5Q

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6z0Ugax30Lg

Turkey’s Elif Nur Turhan (11-0, 7 KOs) captured the WBA interim super featherweight title with a sixth-round stoppage of France’s Rima Ayadi (11-1, 1 KO) on Thursday night, August 28, at the Théâtre du Casino Barrière in Enghien-les-Bains, just outside Paris. The victory marks the first world title belt of Turhan’s professional career, keeping her unbeaten and extending her knockout streak to three.

From the opening bell, Turhan made her intentions clear. Applying steady pressure and digging to the body, she wore down Ayadi, who tried to keep her at bay with the jab but couldn’t halt the Turkish fighter’s advance. The hometown favorite found no answers as the visitor grew stronger with each passing round.

In the sixth, Turhan broke through with a sharp combination that left Ayadi defenseless. The referee stepped in immediately, waving it off to award Turhan the TKO. It was her second straight victory over an undefeated opponent and the most significant triumph of her career so far.

Nicknamed “The Golden Turk”, Turhan has fought between 130 and 140 pounds since turning pro in 2022, her punching power standing out in a division where knockouts are rare.

For Ayadi, it was the bitter taste of her first professional defeat. At 36, she had built a spotless record, but on this night, she couldn’t withstand Turhan’s firepower.

Heavy-handed Lightweight contender Elif Nur Turhan has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing following her impressive knockout win over Shauna Browne in Belfast last month.
 
The 29-year-old from Istanbul has won all ten of her fights since turning professional back in May 2022, with six of those wins coming inside the distance, and the former WBC International and WBA Gold World Champion hopes to further cement herself as one of the most exciting female fighters on the planet after teaming up with Matchroom.
 
Managed by Ertan Sen of Box Promotion Germany, Turhan (10-0, 6 KOs) introduced herself on the big stage by wiping out Ireland’s Browne with a monster left hook in the opening round of their ten-round clash on the undercard of Lewis Crocker vs. Paddy Donovan at the SSE Arena Belfast.
 
“I’m incredibly excited to be teaming up with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing,” said Turhan. “I have worked so hard to get myself into this position and now with the backing of Matchroom and my manager Ertan Sen, I can push on to make myself one of the most recognised fighters on the planet. I have a fan friendly style and always look to finish the show early. My aim is to win multiple World Titles and cement my legacy as one of the best fighters in the world. If you don’t want to bleed in the ring, you have to sweat in training!”
 
“I’ve never seen a harder punching female fighter than Elif Nur Turhan,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Elif brings action and vicious intentions every time she steps in the ring. Her team had been messaging me for a long time asking for just one chance – and she grabbed it with both hands by delivering one of the best knockouts I’ve seen in women’s boxing last month in Belfast. Elif took the fight against Shauna Browne on about ten days’ notice and showed us all what she is capable of. She is a huge puncher and will no doubt become one of the most exciting fighters in women’s boxing. Remember the name!”
 
“Get ready for the next chapter of Elif Nur Turhan’s brilliant career,” said Sen. “Elif gave fight fans around the world a small glimpse of what she is capable of in Belfast last month. Fans want to see action and knockouts – Elif delivers both of those in abundance. I am very happy to make this deal with Matchroom Boxing – who we both consider to be the number one promotional company in the world. Stop with dreaming, start with doing!”
 
You can follow Turhan’s journey on Instagram: elfturhann
 

Lewis Crocker was able to get a victory over Paddy Donovan via disqualification after Donovan dropped Crocker with a left hand after the bell to end right eight of their 12-round welterweight bout at the SSE Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland

In round eight, Donovan was deducted a point for a headbutt. Crocker was bleeding under the right eye. Donovan then dropped Criocker with a left to the body. Very late in the round, Donovan landed a right hook after the bell that put Crocker on the canvas. Referee Marcus McDonnell disqualified Donovan.

Crocker, 146.4 lbs of Belfast is 21-0. Donovan, 146.1 lbs of Limerick, IRE is 14-1.

Richards Stops McCrory in 8

Craig Richards stopped Padraig McCrory in round eight of their 10-round light heavyweight bout.

In round eight, Richards uncorked a left to the solar plexus that put McCrory for the count at 1:58.

Richards. 174.1 lbs of London is 19-4-1 with 12 knockouts. McCrory, 174.5 lbs of Ireland is 19-2.

Walker Wins Majority Decision Over Woodstock

Kurt Walker remained undefeated with a 10-round majority decision over Leon Woodstock in a featherweight bout.

Walker, 126.5 lbs of Lisburn, IRL won by scores of 97-93, 96-94 and 95-95 and is now 12-0. Woodstock, 126 lbs of of Leicester, ENG is 16-4.,

Ward Stops McCarthy in 6

Steven Ward stopped Tommy McCarthy in round six of their 10-round cruiserweight fight.

At the end of round two, Ward dropped McCarrthy with a left hook at the bell.

In round six, Ward dropped McCarthy with a right over the top. McCarthy was hurt badly and Ward went to work with a vicious flurry of punches. The corner of McCarthy was on the apron, but the referee did not see it. After a few more unanswered punches, the referee stopped the bout at 1:17.

Ward, 199.5 lbs of West Normandy, IRL is 15-3 with five knockouts. McCarthy, 199.3 lbs of Belfast is 21-7.

Ruadhan Farrell won a eight-round decision over Gerard Hughes in a super bantamweight bout.

Farrell, 123.4 lbs of Belfast won by a 79-73 score and is now 7-1-1. Hughes, 124.2 lbs of Valley Castle, IRL is 5-1-1.

Elif Nur Turhan shocked Shauna Brown by scoring a massive first round stoppage in a 10-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Turhan landed a massive left hook that out Brown down. She got to her feet, but was unsteady and the fight was stopped at 47 seconds.

Turhan, 134.6 lbs of Istanbul, TUR is 10-0 with six knockouts. Brown, 134.3 lbs of Ireeland is 5-1.

Jack O’Neill won a four-round unanimous decision over Mohammed Wako in a featherweight bout.

In round two, O’Neill was cut on the forehead from a headbutt.

In round three, O’Neill landed a right to the shoulder that put Wako on the canvas.

O’Neill, 124.1 lbs of Belfast, NI won by a 39-36 score and is now 4-0. Wako, 122.6 lbs of York, ENG via Ethiopia is 1-3.

Aaron Bowen won a six-round decision over Juan Cachiero in a light heavyweight bout.

Bowen, 165.1 lbs of Coventry, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 5-0. Cacheiro, 171,2 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 7-4.