Sebastian Fundora’s promoter disagrees with Ermal Hadribeaj KO controversy

(October 19, 2026) Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz says he disagrees with critics of referee Thomas Taylor’s decision to award WBC junior middleweight champion Sebastian Fundora a last-round knockout over Ermal Hadribeaj on Saturday night.

After a gritty and physical war of attrition, broadcast live on TNT and DAZN from the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Fundora, 25-1-1 (17 KOs), overcame a slow start to successfully defend his title for the fourth time by knocking out mandatory challenger Hadribeaj, 23-1-1 (8 KOs), with a series of left hands capped by a “buzzer beater” punch that dropped his foe just as the final bell sounded to end the 12-round fight.

Albania’s Hadribeaj rose at the count of nine, but Taylor assessed his condition as spent and waved the fight over immediately, making the official result a KO 12 at 2:59.

While many voiced post-fight they feel Hadribeaj should have been allowed to go the distance, given he was able to get back to his feet after the knockdown, Lewkowicz says Taylor reacted correctly to the unusual circumstances.

“The rules say a fighter cannot be saved by the bell in any round including the 12th. If the referee ruled the fighter was not fit to continue, and if he would have stopped it immediately if it happened at any other point in the fight, he would be letting Hadribeaj be saved by the bell if he didn’t stop it, regardless of the clock.

“That was the right thing to do for a fighter who is not in shape to keep fighting. People are saying Hadribeaj was robbed of going the distance. If Thomas Taylor hadn’t waved it off, he would have been robbing Sebastian Fundora of a knockout he earned in the ring. It goes both ways.”

The scorecards later revealed Fundora was on his way to winning a clear unanimous decision, as he was up 107-100, 109-98 and 108-99 at the time of the KO.

“Not everyone in boxing will ever agree on everything,” Lewkowicz added, but Hadribeaj was so badly hurt he was taken to the hospital on a stretcher after the fight. Safety must come before all else in boxing. Thankfully he was released the next morning and will fight another day.”

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ABOUT SAMPSON BOXING

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports, ProBoxTV and several international networks. Sampson Boxing has guided the careers of over 40 world champions, specializing in developing relatively unknown prospects into champions and superstars, including discovering alll-time-great Manny Pacquiao, Hall of Famer Sergio Martinez, World Light Heavyweight, Super Middleweight and Cruiserweight Champion David Benavidez, former two-time champion Javier Fortuna, former world Unified WBA and IBF Super Welterweight Champion Jeison Rosario, former WBA Interim World Featherweight Champion Eduardo “Zurdito” Ramirez, and sibling world champions WBC World Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian Fundora and his sister, WBC, IBF and WBO World Flyweight Champion Gabriela Fundora. Sampson Lewkowicz was inducted into the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame in 2023. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

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VIDEO: Fundora vs. Hadribeaj WEIGH-IN




VIDEO: Fundora vs. Hadbribeaj FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE 




SEBASTIAN FUNDORA VS. ERMAL HADRIBEAJ FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – October 15, 2026 – WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and unbeaten mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj went face to face at the final press conference on Thursday before they headline “The Fight” live on TNT and DAZN this Saturday, October 17 from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The press conference also featured WBA Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and former world champion Tomoki Kameda, who duel in the co-main event, all-action former world champion Armando “Toro” Reséndiz, who battles Australia’s Koen Mazoudier in a 10-round super middleweight showdown, plus rising star Marco Romero and Uruguay’s Matias Ferreira, who meet in the eight-round super middleweight opening attraction at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The fourth installment of the acclaimed live monthly boxing series “The Fight”, this event will be broadcast co-exclusively in the U.S. on TNT, truTV and DAZN.

TNT Sports and DAZN today announced an all-star announce team for Saturday’s event with Todd Grisham hosting studio coverage alongside undefeated five-division world champion Terence Crawford, International Boxing Hall of Famer Tim Bradley Jr. and former two-time welterweight world champion Shawn Porter. Corey Erdman will handle play-by-play duties alongside analysts Sergio Mora, a former world champion, and veteran boxing journalist Chris Mannix.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now through Ticketmaster.com.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas:

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“This Saturday we have everything on this card. Make sure to tune in, because we’re gonna make it a knockout of a weekend.

“He’s an undefeated fighter. He’s hungry, but we’ve seen that before. We’ve fought champions. This is the major leagues of boxing and we’re here to prove again why we’ll remain the champion.

“I’ve been in this sport for a while. I’ve been fighting for 22 years. It’s been a lot of learning and now we’re showing you guys.

“This is gonna be a great fight. He’s undefeated and he only knows how to win. But we’re here to break him.

“Losing to Brian Mendoza made me realize some things. Obviously if you make mistakes, you’re gonna get hurt. It’s not just about realizing the mistake, but learning from it.

“Future fights only get in my mind because of everyone asking us about them. We have Ermal in front of us and we’re not overlooking him at all. You can’t overlook anyone. After Saturday, you can ask me all the questions.

“I’m very comfortable making weight. I ate breakfast today. This is Fundora fight week and we’re ready to go.”

ERMAL HADRIBEAJ

“I want to show that I’m an exciting fighter that people are going to want to watch Tell the fans around the world that ‘The Albanian Sniper’ is coming for Sebastian Fundora.

“I met Fundora three years ago and I want to shake his hand and let him know that the respect is there. We knew that we’d want to fight him, but I wasn’t ready at that moment. Now I’ve proven that I belong here.

“We worked a lot in training camp and I think we have the key. If that key doesn’t work, I have another key in my pocket. I have everything I need. I’m fast, I’m strong, I work hard and I have punch resistance. Everyone thinks he has the advantage, but his only advantage is that he’s tall.

“I’m able to out box him and I have the power to hurt him as well. I’m very unpredictable so I can’t say now how it will happen.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m just ready. We prepared 110%. Just like what I did in the UK, going out there against all odds, nothing is gonna come between me and keeping this belt. I’ve lost it before and gained it back, now I don’t plan on losing it again.

“I will give the best of me in every fight. I can’t wait to let my hands fly and do what I was born to do.

“I wanted to get to the top level and fight the best of the best, that’s why I teamed up with Manny Robles. We went over there with all of the odds against me. But as a champion, you take it on the chin and figure it out. You have to overcome obstacles.

“I’m just getting better every fight. Everyone is going to see on Saturday everything that I’ve worked for. This belt isn’t going anywhere. I promise you that.

“He’s got a lot of experience and he’s been in there with a lot of champions. But I’m a hungry, young fighter and I’m strong. I’m going in there with everything and ready to showcase what I have in the tank.

“Everyone is on my hit list. Line them up. I want all of them. That’s what I’m here for. The belts are nice, but I want the names. I want people to say I fought the champions and beat them all.”

TOMOKI KAMEDA

“’El Mexicanito’ is back once again. I’m very thankful for this great opportunity. I’m so happy to be back here in Las Vegas once again. I’ve had a great training camp and I’m ready to be world champion once again.

“I’ve been training for nine months now. Now I’m here and more ready than ever. I can guarantee you that.

“I learned a lot from the loss to Angelo Leo. I was able to use those lessons in my preparation for this fight. On Saturday I’m going to show that I’m the superior fighter and come out on top.

“On Saturday night I’m going to prove that in boxing, anything is possible and that I’m willing and able to come out on top.

“I have to take advantage of this great opportunity. Chances like this don’t come around too often so I have to be 100% focused.”

ARMANDO RESENDIZ

“I’m always ready for a challenge. I just want to seek out the best. It makes me really proud to be on a prestigious card like this. I’m always in the gym so this was an opportunity I’m 100% ready for.

“There is a lot that I want to accomplish. I want to keep getting into the ring and being the best version of myself that I can be.

“It’s been a roller coaster for me, but I’ve proven that I will always get back up. There’s always a next chapter.

“I have full confidence in myself and my team. After Saturday night we’re going to look to move closer to becoming a world champion again.

“He’s a strong fighter who has a lot of heart. He’s very tough. The fans are going to end up being the true winners of the night.”

MARCO ROMERO

“I’m excited to be fighting alongside these champions and put on a great performance. He better live up to his words, because if he doesn’t it’s gonna be a long night for him.

“He thinks he has more experience than me, but with my amateur experience, that’s more than he’s had. He says he’s gonna come in and play my game, but I don’t think that’s a good game plan. You’re gonna get bit by the shark.

“He can believe whatever he wants. I’m going to go in there and do my job. I’m gonna let the shark go on the hunt. When I get the opportunity for the kill shot, don’t blink.

“I’m progressing and heading towards the top 10 and get to the world title level. A lot of guys I fight tend to move more, but if he comes in and brawl, that’s perfect for me. I’ll be ready for sure.”

MATIAS FERREIRA

“I’m going to be out there showing my speed from the first minute of the fight. I’ve been training hard for months now and I’m coming to knock him out before the fourth round. The fans are going to be in for a show.

“He’s a really good fighter, but he’s not going to be able to keep up with my speed. He doesn’t have the experience yet. I’m gonna come out and smother him from round one. I’ve trained hard and I know what I’m capable of.

“He struggles with the distance. I’ve seen how he likes to engage from short distance, but I’m going to play his game and make my speed count more.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“We’re all very excited to be here promoting ‘The Fight’ on TNT. This card has a little bit of everything on it.

“With our main event, you have Sebastian ‘The Towering Inferno’ Fundora taking on his mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj. He can’t look past his opponent who’s young and undefeated. The scary thing about Fundora is that he’s just getting better and better. His fights are always exciting and he’ll give fight fans everything they want in a fight night.”

“In the co-main event we have Brandon Figueroa, who went over the UK to win his WBA Featherweight World Title and upset Nick Ball. Now he’s back with a strong veteran fighter and former world champion in Tomoki Kameda.

“Plus we have a former world champion in Armando Resendiz returning for the first time since losing his title and he’s got a tough Australian in Koen Mazoudier to deal with. And we open the night with one of the top prospects in boxing today in Marco Romero. He’s definitely someone to keep your eye on.”

BRITTON HARDIN, Head of Boxing, North America, DAZN

“This is the perfect time for us to be bringing in new boxing fans with the partnership with TNT and this is an exciting card to do that with. You get the full gamut of what boxing has with these matchups that we’re able to put together.

“I’m really excited for Saturday night. Everyone up here knows the level of competition and I can’t wait to see what we have.”

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ABOUT FUNDORA VS. HADRIBEAJ

Fundora vs. Hadribeaj will see WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora bring his can’t-miss, all-action style to the ring against unbeaten mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj headlining the latest installment of “The Fight” live on TNT and DAZN on Saturday, October 17 from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The stacked lineup begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features two-division champion and reigning WBA Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his title against Japanese star and former world champion Tomoki Kameda in the co-main event.

Plus all-action former world champion Armando “Toro” Reséndiz steps in to face Australia’s Koen Mazoudier in a 10-round super middleweight showdown while rising star Marco Romero duels Uruguay’s Matias Ferreira in the eight-round super middleweight opening attraction.

The fourth installment of the acclaimed live monthly boxing series “The Fight”, this event will be broadcast co-exclusively in the U.S. on TNT, truTV and DAZN.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now through Ticketmaster.com.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.

For more information on the October 17 event visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #FundoraHadribeaj, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, on Instagram @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions & https://www.facebook.com/DAZN/.




TNT Sports & DAZN Present World Championship Boxing Doubleheader on The Fight, Saturday, Oct. 17

TNT Sports and DAZN will present the next installment of The Fight on Saturday, Oct. 17, featuring two world championship bouts as part of a four-fight main card airing live on TNT and DAZN at 8 p.m. ET from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Headlining the evening, WBC Super Welterweight Champion Sebastián “The Towering Inferno” Fundora(24-1-1, 16 KOs) will put his title on the line against unbeaten challenger Ermal Hadribeaj (23-0-1, 8 KOs) in a scheduled 12-round showdown. The southpaw Fundora will seek another successful title defense following his sixth-round stoppage of former world champion Keith Thurman in March. Hadribeaj enters the biggest fight of his career after defeating previously unbeaten Bakary Samake in May.

In the co-main event, two-division world champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa (27-2-1, 20 KOs) will make the first defense of his WBA Featherweight Championship against former world champion Tomoki Kameda (42-5, 23 KOs) in a 12-round contest. Figueroa captured the title with a dramatic knockout victory over previously unbeaten Nick Ball in February in Liverpool, England.

The main card will also feature a pair of super middleweight matchups. Former world champion Armando Reséndiz (16-3, 11 KOs), who scored an upset victory over Caleb Plant in 2025, will face Australia’s Koen Mazoudier (16-4-1, 6 KOs) in a 10-round bout. Unbeaten rising prospect Marco Romero (15-0, 13 KOs) will put his perfect record on the line against Uruguay’s Braulio Ferreira (8-3, 3 KOs) in an eight-round contest.

Todd Grisham will host studio coverage alongside undefeated five-division world champion Terence Crawford, International Boxing Hall of Famer Tim Bradley Jr. and former two-time welterweight world champion Shawn Porter, providing analysis and reactions throughout the evening. Corey Erdman will handle play-by-play duties alongside analysts Sergio Mora, a former world champion, and veteran boxing journalist Chris Mannix.

Leading up to Saturday’s action, truTV will join today’s pre-fight press conference in progress following its MLB postseason coverage, with the press conference also airing in its entirety at 7 p.m. ET. truTV will present live coverage of the official weigh-in on Friday, Oct. 16, at 4 p.m. ET.

Saturday, Oct. 17 – Main Card

WBC Super Welterweight Championship (12 rounds): Sebastián Fundora vs. Ermal Hadribeaj
WBA Featherweight Championship (12 rounds): Brandon Figueroa vs. Tomoki Kameda
Super Middleweight (10 rounds): Armando Reséndiz vs. Koen Mazoudier
Super Middleweight (8 rounds): Marco Romero vs. Braulio Ferreira

Through three events, The Fight — TNT Sports’ and DAZN’s premier monthly live boxing franchise — has reached 7.3 million total viewers, and has established a consistent nationally televised platform to showcase world championship bouts and many of the sport’s emerging stars.




SEBASTIAN FUNDORA VS. ERMAL HADRIBEAJ MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – October 14, 2026 – WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and unbeaten mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj kicked off fight week events Wednesday with a media workout before they headline “The Fight” live on TNT and DAZN this Saturday, October 17 from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The workout also featured WBA Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and former world champion Tomoki Kameda, who duel in the co-main event, all-action former world champion Armando “Toro” Reséndiz and Australia’s Koen Mazoudier, who battle in a 10-round super middleweight showdown and rising star Marco Romero, who faces Uruguay’s Braulio Ferreira in the eight-round super middleweight opening attraction at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The fourth installment of the acclaimed live monthly boxing series “The Fight”, this event will be broadcast co-exclusively in the U.S. on TNT, truTV and DAZN.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now through Ticketmaster.com.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from Radiant Brand Complex in Las Vegas:

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“I don’t take anybody lightly. We’re in nothing but championship fights now, so I have to prepare for everyone like they’re coming to rip my head off. That’s what they’re all trying to do.

“I’m gonna go do what I do best. I’m planning on doing what I do and get this guy out of here. Every time I step into the ring that’s what I plan on doing.

“He had to work hard to get into this position to become world champion. It’s unfortunate that we have to break that dream, but it’s a beautiful dream to have.

“We all deal with injuries. We had it last fight and we still kicked butt. I showed off my jab and a lot of people didn’t think I had that.

“I just want to show everyone that I’m better. When I get hit, it just gives me some extra motivation to show that I’m stronger.

“Me against Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis is the best fight at 154. That’s the fight everyone wants. But we both have fights we have to get through.”

ERMAL HADRIBEAJ

“I don’t think he’s underestimating me, but I don’t think they know me well. They’re about to see on Saturday night.

“I can fight outside, inside, use angles. I can deal with a lot of that. So he has to be ready for me too. It’s not just him fighting inside. It’s me as well. I can fight inside, outside, all angles.

“Becoming Albania’s first world champion is going to be big. That’s what I’m looking forward to. Securing the belt and making history. It’s big. It’s a dream that everybody has.

“I’m an athletic guy, so I like to take a look at a lot of different styles. There was a moment with me where I was fighting like ‘Albanian Lomachenko.’ He was the one they were saying I looked like. It depends. Every fighter has a different style, so I can be one style with one fighter, another style with another. I don’t know what I’m going to be with Fundora on Saturday night.

“They call me the ‘Albanian Sniper’ because I’m very precise and very calculated. I don’t waste my punches. One thing for sure that I know: win or no win, I know for sure that I’m going to land. When I land, it hurts.

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“Kameda is a come-forward, action fighter like me. They call him ‘El Mexicanito’ for a reason. He fights like he has that Mexican blood in him and he’s going to come fight.

“Manny Robles and I have been working really well together. I’ve been with him for a few months now, and you guys are going to see on October 17. We’ve been working on great things. I just want to keep getting better and better every fight.

“Nick Ball was a great performance on my part, but I’m still not satisfied. I still want the bigger, better fights, and I still want to keep proving myself and elevating my game.

“I come to fight. I’m a very hardcore fighter, a traditional, old-school fighter. I’m here to fight all 12 rounds. I’m here to throw a thousand punches. I’m here for whatever it takes. I train really hard for a reason. The way you train is the way you fight, and the way you guys see me fight is the way I train.

“Inoue is the big fight that everyone wants. Everyone is looking for that fight. Like I said, if he’s moving up to featherweight and wants to challenge me, I welcome him to featherweight. I’m out here for the big fights.

“I’m a big 122-pounder and I’m a big 126-pounder. Eventually, I’ll move up to 130 and 135, but right now I want to stay at 126. I feel great and I want to keep defending my belt.”

TOMOKI KAMEDA

“We’re both fighters that come forward. The fans are going to like this fight, and I do believe that they’re going to enjoy great action on Saturday night.

“We’re confident in our strategy. We have a game plan that we can’t wait to show everyone on Saturday night.

“You never know when it might be your last chance, but I do know that you have to take advantage of the opportunities you’re given because they don’t come along that often. I’m going to be a world champion this Saturday night, take full advantage of it and be my best self.

“I thought I did enough to win the fight against Angelo Leo, but I’m mindful of the fact that I failed in a lot of things. I made some mistakes. I took it as a learning experience, and now I’m a better fighter and I’m prepared for Saturday night.

“I feel even better than ever. At 126, I feel right at home compared to when I was at 118 and 122. And on Saturday night, you’re going to see just how well I feel.

“I moved to Mexico when I was 15 and I full embraced the Mexican style of fighting.”

ARMANDO RESENDIZ

“I took from my last fight that I need to keep learning. I got right back into the gym and now I have an opportunity that I’m ready to take advantage of to the fullest. I’m going to show everything that I’ve learned.

“I’m always ready for any opponent. I’m in great shape and I feel prepared. I’m excited about taking on this challenge.

“I’m very excited for this matchup. This is my opportunity to show that I will become a world champion once again.

“Jaime Munguia came in very well prepared and had a great strategy. I think his experience ended up beating us. But I have nothing to hang my head about. It was an experience that I value and now I’m moving forward.

“Caleb Plant gave me an opportunity, so giving him the rematch would be a great chance to pay it forward.

“I want to be world champion again. I don’t care who I have to fight, I’ll be ready.”

KOEN MAZOUDIER

“Reséndiz is a strong, tough, all-around fighter from what I’ve watched. And being a former world champion, you can never take that away from him. This is a massive step up and a door-opener for me.

“We didn’t have much time to change except for the game plan. The talking in the gym and the game plan of what we’re going to do changed a little bit. But the way that we box is the way we box. We make them change around us. We know what we want to do, and that’s what we focus on.

“We expect him to come forward a little bit more. We expect him to engage a little bit more. And that’s what I’m here for. Anyone who’s watched me knows I come to fight. I’m a fighter’s fighter.

“I bring a firefight every fight. Every fight I’m in is an entertaining fight. I’ve been voted Australia’s Most Entertaining Fight and most of my fights have been in Fight of the Year contention.

“I’m a big fan of this sport as much as I’m a competitor. So fighting a Mexican former world champion in Las Vegas is a bucket-list item.”

MARCO ROMERO

“I don’t think I’m too far. I just came back from a camp sparring with Christian Mbilli and Osleys Iglesias. I held my own in there. I definitely held my own in there, and they showed me just a couple things that I need to work on. But it just shows me I’m not too far from that level.

“I’m ready to go all eight rounds if I need to, and I’m ready for that KO. If I see a kill-shot opening, I’m going for it.

“You’re going to see a dominating performance. I’m a calm guy outside the ring, but once I step in there, El Tiburón comes out. The shark comes out. So yeah, expect that on Saturday night

“I think being on this platform is going to give back to Kansas and be able to put Kansas on the map. So that’s what I’m working toward.”

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ABOUT FUNDORA VS. HADRIBEAJ

Fundora vs. Hadribeaj will see WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora bring his can’t-miss, all-action style to the ring against unbeaten mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj headlining the latest installment of “The Fight” live on TNT and DAZN on Saturday, October 17 from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The stacked lineup begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features two-division champion and reigning WBA Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his title against Japanese star and former world champion Tomoki Kameda in the co-main event.

Plus all-action former world champion Armando “Toro” Reséndiz steps in to face Australia’s Koen Mazoudier in a 10-round super middleweight showdown while rising star Marco Romero duels Uruguay’s Braulio Ferreira in the eight-round super middleweight opening attraction.

The fourth installment of the acclaimed live monthly boxing series “The Fight”, this event will be broadcast co-exclusively in the U.S. on TNT, truTV and DAZN.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now through Ticketmaster.com.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.

For more information on the October 17 event visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #FundoraHadribeaj, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, on Instagram @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions & https://www.facebook.com/DAZN/.




ERMAL HADRIBEAJ TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

MIAMI, FL. – October 7, 2026 – Undefeated mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj will step into the ring looking to become Albania’s first boxing world champion and fulfill his lifelong dream when he battles WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora headlining the latest installment of “The Fight” live on TNT and DAZN on Saturday, October 17 from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

“I’m very very very motivated to become Albania’s first world champion boxer,” said Hadribeaj. “Since I was young, I’ve always wanted to be a champion, no matter what sport I ended up choosing. Now I have this opportunity in boxing and it’s an opportunity that I’ve been thinking of all my life. This means so much to me.”

The 32-year-old Hadribeaj live and trains in Miami under the guidance of his trainer Donato Demartiis. The pair originally met in 2018 when Hadribeaj was primarily competing in MMA, before Demartiis decided to have his prospective pupil try his hand in the boxing ring. From that day on, the two have stayed in the gym and brought each other to the precipice of world championship glory.

“Donato told me to just give boxing a try and put me in to spar a boxer and he saw me beating the guy up,” said Hadribeaj. “Donato saw something in me and came up with a plan for me in this sport. I trusted his words and I committed myself 100% to boxing. I’ve given everything to make this happen because he trusted me since day one. With each fight we were improving. I was giving everything to win. We kept pushing and made sure that we never gave up.”

As he prepares for the biggest bout of his life, Hadribeaj has believes that his success in training camp, and specifically in sparring with Mykal Fox and Ollie Cooper, has helped prepare him for the unique challenge that is Fundora.

“Training camp is like a test for the fight,” said Hadribeaj. If you pass the test at training camp, you’re ready for the fight. My sparring partners Mykal Fox and Ollie Cooper have been so supportive for my camp. They’ve been going twelve rounds with me multiple times a week. Ollie brings the pressure and Mykal is more crafty. So it was a great mix for me that helped me a lot.

“Sparring has been the key to prepare for Fundora’s length. We worked on a lot of different scenarios, like moving around the ring and staying out of range of his jab and his crosses and uppercuts. We have to get the distance right.”

Through watching on television and live in-person, Hadribeaj has gained a familiarity with Fundora, and even says he’s been one of his favorite fighters to watch for years. Throughout that time, Hadribeaj revealed that he doubted many of the tactics Fundora’s opponents have used, and explained what he thinks they get wrong about facing “The Towering Inferno”.

“Fundora has been one of my favorite fighters to watch in this division for a while,” said Hadribeaj. “I’ve always thought that he really knows how to fight. But I always ask myself why his opponents choose their strategies and run into his punches. The opponents tend to get too caught up in their ego and try to compete with his height. I feel like they should just have been working on their stuff and not worry as much about what he’s doing. Now I’ll have my shot and I’m gonna do my best.”

Hadribeaj displays an umistakeable air of confidence when he speaks, even when heading into the biggest fight of his career as an underdog. For the unbeaten WBC mandatory challenger, he believes that everything he’s done leading up to this moment will allow him to be at his best when the bell rings.

“I’m confident because I worked to get to this position,” said Hadribeaj. “I’m not just confident for no reason. I earned this position and I earned this confidence. We deserve to be here. I trust my skills, I trust my power and I trust my team. I’m not scared to fight anybody.

“I love the crowd and I love the bright lights. I don’t panic or stress. I try to stay positive all the time. But the most important thing is that my work has been done correctly. If the work is done correctly, then it’s easy for me to stay calm in any position.”

As October 17 nears, Hadribeaj is fully aware of the stage he’s walking onto and is eager to deliver a memorable night on TNT and DAZN.

“Fans are going to see a very unique style and a very exciting fighter,” said Hadribeaj. “You’re going to love this fight. We’re definitely going to make this a war. I know that I’m new to the fans and I can’t wait to show them what I’m all about with my performance.”

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ABOUT FUNDORA VS. HADRIBEAJ

Fundora vs. Hadribeaj will see WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora bring his can’t-miss, all-action style to the ring against unbeaten mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj headlining the latest installment of “The Fight” live on TNT and DAZN on Saturday, October 17 from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The stacked lineup begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features two-division champion and reigning WBA Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his title against Japanese star and former world champion Tomoki Kameda in the co-main event, plus undefeated two-division world champion Jermall Charlo steps in to face Australia’s Koen Mazoudier in a 10-round super middleweight showdown.

The fourth installment of the acclaimed live monthly boxing series “The Fight”, this event will be broadcast co-exclusively in the U.S. on TNT, truTV and DAZN.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now through Ticketmaster.com.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.

For more information on the October 17 event visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #FundoraHadribeaj, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, on Instagram @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions & https://www.facebook.com/DAZN/.




FUNDORA, FIGUEROA & CHARLO TRIPLEHEADER VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS – September 24, 2026 – Fighters competing on a stacked night of action featuring WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora, WBA Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa and two-division champion Jermall Charlo in separate bouts previewed their matchups during a virtual press conference Thursday before the latest installment of “The Fight” live on TNT and DAZN on Saturday, October 17 from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The virtual presser featured Fundora and unbeaten mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj, who compete in the evening’s main event, Figueroa and former world champion Tomoki Kameda, who battle in the co-main event, plus Charlo, who squares off against Australian contender Koen Mazoudier in a super middleweight opening bout.  

Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.

The fourth installment of the acclaimed live monthly boxing series “The Fight”, this event will be broadcast co-exclusively in the U.S. on TNT, truTV and DAZN.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“We’ve been working hard up in the mountains since our last fight and just getting ready for the next one. I’m ready to put on another show in Las Vegas.

“I’ve been getting smarter and wiser. Everything is lining up. The fights are showing the results of everything we’re doing in camp.

“Hadribeaj is undefeated, he’s the mandatory and he’s hungry to win. But it’s nothing we’re unfamiliar with.

“We’re always in the gym 24/7. It’s always working time. The second you step off the gas, that’s when you’re gonna start feeling it.  

“Expect the best from Fundora as always. Just like we always do. ‘The Towering Inferno’ is coming to burn down Las Vegas once again.

“We’re only focused on this fight. We know that we can’t overlook anyone. We focus on the work and take it one fight at a time.

“Hadribeaj still has that mechanism that he only knows how to win. He’s protecting that 0. But I’ve taken 0’s before. I’m on a three-fight knockout streak and we intend to keep that going.”

ERMAL HADRIBEAJ

“They call me the Albanian Sniper. I’m new to these big fights, but I’ve worked my way to this position. I’m feeling great. We’re getting ready for war. Fundora is a warrior as well and he likes blood. I can’t wait.

“This fight means that I can become the first Albanian world champion. That’s really important to me and my team.

“Everyone thinks to go to the body against his height. But that’s what everyone has tried. It’s not about bringing something new, it’s about working on specific things that will work. It will be a struggle for both of us. It’s gonna be a hard fight for each of us.

“The way that I came to this moment will help me when the fight finally starts. I got here because I worked for it. I went step by step. The pressure is already gone by now.

“This fight means a lot to me. There are a lot of fighters who want to be in my position. So I’m very grateful. Now it’s not a dream anymore, I’m living it. I’ve been stepping in silence. I’ve just kept working to make it to this point.

“I’m very excited to fight someone like Fundora who is a great guy. I actually met him three years ago, and now here we are fighting for the title.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I came out here to L.A. for a reason. I wanted to make sure that winning is inevitable. I worked my butt off and I’m gonna keep doing so. I love boxing because you can always reinvent yourself and come out stronger. On October 17 I’m going to demonstrate why I’m the best 126-pounder in the world.

“I’ve been training here in L.A. for three months now and I’m ready to defend my title on October 17. I can’t wait to get back in the ring and showcase my skills again.

“I always come to fight. I prepare myself 110% and always give my all in the ring. Now with Manny Robles guiding me and honing my skills I’ve shown that I can keep improving with every fight. That’s what I want to keep on doing.

“Come October 17 I’m gonna stamp why I’m the best 126-pounder in the world. I’m ready to fight whoever. I want to fight the best. It’s not just about the belts, it’s about fighting the big names. That’s most important to me.

“Japanese and Mexican fighters always make a great fight. They’re going to try to implement their strategy, but I’ve seen it all. I feel like I’m a young veteran in this sport. I’m excited to get in there and mix it up.

“I’m preparing myself like I’m fighting Nick Ball again. Whether I’m the challenger or not, I’m coming with everything. I know fight fans are gonna fall in love with my style again and again, because I’m never in a boring fight.

“Manny Robles has a lot of experience and I learn from him and his team every day. After the loss to Fulton I said that I wanted to make some changes. I want to be one of the best fighters on the planet. I feel like Manny and I are just getting started.”

TOMOKI KAMEDA

“I’m really happy here training in Mexico. We’re going to be ready to roll and give fans a great fight on October 17.

“My experience speaks for itself. I have a lot of experience and October 17 is going to be no different than what I’ve shown throughout my career. I’m stepping into the ring to become world champion once again.

“The Kameda family has a long and storied history in boxing. Now it’s about expanding that legacy and winning another world title. That’s what’s motivated me and has me ready to go on October 17.

“I was initially training in Japan and then we came to Mexico six weeks ago. We’ll head to Las Vegas a week before the fight and be ready to go on October 17. I can’t wait to get in the ring.

“My last fight was very close and very tight for sure. But right now I just want to turn the page and focus on October 17. I have a great opportunity in front of me to become world champion again.”

JERMALL CHARLO

“I’m staying strong and staying motivated. It’s been a long camp for me. This is my second time fighting at the Cosmo and I’m ready to get it going. Fighting in Las Vegas is just like fighting at home for me.

“I’m making a statement. If he makes a wrong move, then I’m gonna send him back to Australia on his back.

“There’s nothing he can do about what’s coming. He has to come here and prove me wrong. I haven’t let you down yet. I’m undefeated and I’m looking to get a title in a third weight class.

“I’ve seen just about every style throughout my career. I’m not overlooking him, but he’s gonna have to show me something I haven’t seen before.

“The other fighters in the division know who I am and they know what I possess. It’s just a matter of getting those guys in the ring to make history. That’s what I’m here for.

“Ronnie Shields always keeps me poised. He’s not just my coach, he’s like a teacher. He’s a father-figure for me. He’s legendary and he’s teaching me how to be legendary.

“I’m hungry for more activity. It’s just one of those things. I’m taking things slowly but surely. I’m here and I’m ready.

“I’m more focused now. With experience and age comes power. Fans are gonna see that. I’m staying focused and staying grounded.”

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ABOUT FUNDORA VS. HADRIBEAJ

Fundora vs. Hadribeaj will see WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora bring his can’t-miss, all-action style to the ring against unbeaten mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj headlining the latest installment of “The Fight” live on TNT and DAZN on Saturday, October 17 from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The stacked lineup begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features two-division champion and reigning WBA Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his title against Japanese star and former world champion Tomoki Kameda in the co-main event, plus undefeated two-division world champion Jermall Charlo steps in to face Australia’s Koen Mazoudier in a 10-round super middleweight showdown.

The fourth installment of the acclaimed live monthly boxing series “The Fight”, this event will be broadcast co-exclusively in the U.S. on TNT, truTV and DAZN.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now through Ticketmaster.com.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.

For more information on the October 17 event visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #FundoraHadribeaj, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, on Instagram @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions & https://www.facebook.com/DAZN/.

 




TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR LOADED PBC TRIPLEHEADER SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 FROM THE CHELSEA AT THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS – August 28, 2026 – Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster.com for a jam-packed PBC tripleheader headlined by a trio of all-action boxing stars on Saturday, October 17 from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas as WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora faces unbeaten mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj in the main event of “The Fight” live on TNT and DAZN.

The stacked lineup begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features two-division champion and reigning WBA Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his title against Japanese star and former world champion Tomoki Kameda in the co-main event, plus undefeated two-division world champion Jermall Charlo steps in to face Australia’s Koen Mazoudier in a 10-round super middleweight showdown.

The fourth installment of the acclaimed live monthly boxing series “The Fight”, this event will be broadcast co-exclusively in the U.S. on TNT, truTV and DAZN.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.

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For more information on the October 17 event visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #FundoraHadribeaj, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, on Instagram @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions & https://www.facebook.com/DAZN/.




PBC PRESENTS STACKED NIGHT OF ACTION HEADLINED BY SEBASTIAN FUNDORA LIVE ON TNT & DAZN SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 FROM THE CHELSEA AT THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS – August 27, 2026 – WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will bring his can’t-miss, all-action style to the ring against unbeaten mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj headlining the latest installment of “The Fight” live on TNT and DAZN on Saturday, October 17 from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The stacked lineup begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features two-division champion and reigning WBA Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his title against Japanese star and former world champion Tomoki Kameda in the co-main event, plus undefeated two-division world champion Jermall Charlo steps in to face Australia’s Koen Mazoudier in a 10-round super middleweight showdown.

The fourth installment of the acclaimed live monthly boxing series “The Fight”, this event will be broadcast co-exclusively in the U.S. on TNT, truTV and DAZN.

Pre-sale tickets are available TODAY, Thursday, August 27 from 10 a.m. PT until 10 a.m. PT through Ticketmaster.com.

Tickets for the live event go on sale TOMORROW, Friday, August 28 at 10 a.m. PT through Ticketmaster.com.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing.

“Sebastian Fundora, Brandon Figueroa and Jermall Charlo are three of the sport’s most dominant and fan-friendly stars and will all need to be at their best to deliver another memorable night on October 17,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Fundora and Figueroa are each matched up against tough challengers who are highly-motivated to wrest their belts away in the undefeated Ermal Hadribeaj and the former champion Tomoki Kameda, while Charlo will go up against a come-forward brawler in Koen Mazoudier. With these action-packed styles entering the ring, October 17 is a perfect card to be featured on a big stage on TNT and DAZN and at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.”

“October 17 in Las Vegas will be a grand stage for Sebastian Fundora to once again prove that he towers over the rest of the 154-pound division,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “I am sure that Ermal Hadribeaj will bring everything he’s got, but I am confident that ‘The Towering Inferno’ will leave with his hand raised.”

“One of the strengths of ‘The Fight’ is the opportunity to build real continuity around the fighters and divisions we’re showcasing,” said Britton Hardin, Head of Boxing, North America at DAZN. “Fans who watched Bruce Carrington compete on the first installment are now seeing Brandon Figueroa featured in the co-main event, with both champions potentially on a path toward each other at featherweight. That kind of linear storytelling across TNT and DAZN helps elevate the fighters, builds anticipation for what could come next and gives audiences a deeper connection to the sport.”

**SEBASTIAN FUNDORA VS. ERMAL HADRIBEAJ**

Standing nearly six-feet, six-inches, WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora has cemented his place atop the 154-pound division with a series of dominating performances and will look to make the fourth defense of his crown against the WBC’s number-one ranked mandatory challenger, the unbeaten Ermal Hadribeaj in the 12-round main event.

Fundora (24-1-1, 16 KOs) first rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division by dethroning Tim Tszyu via decision in 2024’s bloodiest fight, earning both the WBC and WBO titles. After defending his belts with a knockout of Chordale Booker in March of last year, Fundora put his WBC belt back on the line in a July rematch against Tszyu. This time, Fundora closed the show in style, dropping Tszyu in the first round before forcing an end to the bout after round seven. A native of Coachella, California, Fundora most recently blew through another highly-accomplished challenger in March, as he stopped former unified champion Keith Thurman in the sixth-round. The 28-year-old notably showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in an instant 2022 Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. Fundora represents one of boxing’s most accomplished families, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, undisputed flyweight world champion Gabriela. The two fighting Fundoras are the first brother and sister to simultaneously hold world championships.

“Camp is going great! October 17 is going to be an exciting night for boxing fans, Sebastian ‘The Towering Inferno’ Fundora will be taking over Las Vegas once again,” said Fundora.

Originally from Tirana, Albania, Hadribeaj (23-0-1, 8 KOs) now resides and trains in Miami, Florida as he prepares for the world title opportunity he’s worked his whole career towards. The 32-year-old first announced himself as a world contender in 2022, as he won a vacant international title with a dominant unanimous decision victory over the previously unbeaten Daniel Buciuc. He continued to rise up the rankings with a stoppage of former world champion Carlos Molina in 2023 and unanimous decisions over previously unbeaten contenders Bohdan Shtonda and Younes Zarraa in 2024. He earned his spot as Fundora’s mandatory this May when he went 12 rounds for the first time in a unanimous decision triumph over previously undefeated Bkary Samake. This will be Hadribeaj’s first fight stateside since May 2023, in a career that has also seen him compete in his native Albania, Germany, Croatia, Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates.

“I’m working hard to be at my best and become world champion on October 17,” said Hadribeaj. “This is what I’ve worked for my entire career, and I’m going to be prepared for the fight Fundora is gonna bring. If he takes me lightly, he’s gonna be in for a big surprise.”

**BRANDON FIGUEROA VS. TOMOKI KAMEDA**

Fresh off of becoming a 126-pound world champion for the second time, WBA Featherweight World Champion Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa will defend his belt for the first time against Japan’s former bantamweight world champion Tomoki Kameda in the 12-round co-main event. Figueroa and Kameda hold a piece of shared history, as Kameda engaged in the first of two memorable battles against Jamie McDonnell on May 9, 2015 in Texas on the same card that featured Figueroa winning in his pro debut.

A two-division world champion, Figueroa (27-2-1, 20 KOs) returns to the ring off one of the best performances of his career that saw him travel to the U.K. to stop hometown hero Nick Ball in dramatic fashion in the 12th-round in February. The 29-year old had previously defeated Joet Gonzalez last July to bounce back after losing his 126-pound title by decision in his February rematch against Stephen Fulton Jr. The Weslaco, Texas-native won the Interim WBC Featherweight Title in a 2023 Fight of the Year contender that saw him score a unanimous decision over former champion Mark Magsayo. Figueroa’s relentless pressure and youthful enthusiasm helped him become the first person to defeat former two-division champion Luis Nery in their May 2021 championship clash, as he stopped Nery with a body shot in round seven. Figueroa, now trained by the renowned Manny Robles, 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’m feeling strong, sharp and ready to defend my title,” said Figueroa. “We’ve been pushing hard this camp and making sure I’m prepared for anything. Fans know I always come to fight, so expect a show October 17 in Las Vegas.”

A native of Osaka, Japan, Kameda (42-5, 23 KOs) earned the ring moniker “El Mexicanito” when he moved to the North American country as an amateur to hone his skills. After turning pro, Kameda began ascending up the 118-pound rankings, eventually claiming the WBO Bantamweight World Championship by unanimous decision in August 2013 over Paulus Ambunda. He’d go on to successfully defend the title three times, turning away the previously unbeaten Immanuel Naidjala, plus Alejandro Hernandez and Panya Uthok. The 35-year-old made his biggest splash stateside in 2015, going toe-to-toe with champion Jamie McDonnell in a pair of widely-seen action bouts that were each edged by McDonnell. Kameda would later challenge for two more world titles, putting together a five-fight winning streak that led to a decision loss against then super bantamweight world champion Rey Vargas. Most recently, he dropped a close decision to featherweight world champion Angelo Leo in May 2025, which followed six wins in seven contests.

“I’m coming to take advantage of this opportunity on October 17 and leave Las Vegas world champion once again,” said Kameda. “Brandon Figueroa is a great champion and I know that when the bell rings, we’re going to give the fans a fight they’ll remember.”

**JERMALL CHARLO VS. KOEN MAZOUDIER**

After originally being scheduled to meet in July, two-division world champion Jermall Charlo will now face Australian brawler Koen Mazoudier in a 10-round super middleweight matchup.  

A former world champion at 154 and 160 pounds, Charlo (34-0, 23 KOs) began his quest to become a three-division world champion in the stacked 168-pound division last year, blasting out Thomas LaManna in six rounds. A native of Houston, Texas, Charlo first joined the ranks of world champion in 2015 with a dominant knockout of Cornelius Bundrage, and would go on to defend the title three times, including an emphatic stoppage of the then-undefeated Julian Williams in December 2016. The 36-year-old would then begin a middleweight run that saw him earn the WBC championship and add victories over top contenders including Sergiy Derevyanchenko, Matt Korobov, Hugo Centeno Jr. and more. Trained throughout his career by the renowned Ronnie Shields, Charlo’s recent resume also includes a 2023 unanimous decision triumph over Jose Benavidez Jr.

“I’ve been waiting on this moment and I’m ready to get back in there and remind everybody who Jermall Charlo is,” said Charlo. “I was ready to fight in July, and when that didn’t happen, I went right back to the gym and kept working. I know my fans have been waiting to see me and I’m gonna step into the ring hungry, focused and with a lot to prove. Mazoudier is coming to make a name for himself, but he’s standing in the way of where I’m trying to go. October 17, I’m coming to make a statement.”

A native of Blacktown, New South Wales, Australian, Mazoudier (16-4-1, 6 KOs) turned pro in 2018 after an accomplished amateur career, reeling off six consecutive victories. Of the blemishes on 30-year-old’s record, two came by narrow majority decisions, with one of his other losses eventually being avenged as he defeated Wade Ryan by unanimous decision in 2022. His other loss came at the hands of undefeated Australian star Nikita Tszyu, younger brother of Tim Tszyu. The 2024 showdown against Tszyu was within two points on two judges’ cards when the bout ended in round nine. Mazoudier has bounced back effectively, winning four-straight fights, including a decision win over Sam Beck on August 26.

“I know I’m the underdog and I don’t care,” said Mazoudier. “I’m coming to take down a legend, I’m not just going there for a payday…I’m going there to win. I’ve never taken a backward step in my life, and I’m sure as hell not starting on October 17. I’m coming to take Charlo down.”

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About The Fight

The Fight is a new monthly boxing series from TNT Sports and DAZN, built to deliver the sport’s biggest matchups and rising stars on a consistent national stage. Featuring top fighters from leading global promoters, each event airs live on TNT Sports and DAZN platforms in the U.S. and streams worldwide on DAZN, creating a seamless, multi-platform experience that brings fans closer to the action than ever before. Across TNT Sports’ networks and platforms, including Bleacher Report and House of Highlights, additional original programming and digital content will spotlight the personalities, storylines and stakes driving each event.

For more information on the October 17 event visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #FundoraHadribeaj, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, on Instagram @PremierBoxing & @DAZNBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions & https://www.facebook.com/DAZN/.




ProBoxTV Goes Global This Saturday with Two Action-Packed International Events Broadcast Live on One Sensational Saturday

(May 22, 2026) – This Saturday, May 23, 2026, ProBoxTV is going international with two world-class shows broadcast live from outside the United States in one day, beginning with an important show emanating out of the Willy-Jürissen-Halle in Oberhausen, Germany (12:00 pm EDT) and finishing with an action-packed night of Mexican boxing from Arena La Paz in La Paz in Baja California Sur, Mexico (9 pm EDT).

The Oberhausen, Germany, show, presented by Ahmet Oener of Arena Box Promotions, will feature an eight-round battle of undefeated fighters, as Badien Hasso (22-0, 11 KOs) of Germany via Shekhan, Iraq, takes on Victor Vicente “The Junior” Correa (11-0, 11 KOs) of Mexico City for the WBC International Light Heavyweight Championship.

In the 12-round co-feature with world-championship implications, WBC #3-ranked Ermal “The Albanian Sniper” Hadribeaj (22-0-1, 8 KOs) Miami Beach via Tirana, Albania will battle WBC #1-, WBO #5-, and IBF 8-ranked French superstar Bakary Samake (19-0, 11 KOs) Aubervilliers, Seine-Saint-Denis, France, in a WBC Super Welterweight Final Title Eliminator.

In the eight-round chief supporting bout, Luis Vela (6-0, 5 KOs) Rovereto, Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy, faces Oussama Kebdani (10-1, 3 KOs) from Germany via Berkane, Morocco, for the WBC International Super Lightweight Championship.

In an eight-round battle of cement-fisted big men, Mourad “White Wolf” Aliev (14-1, 11 KOs) of Hamburg, Germany via Moscow will go to war with Raphael Akpejiori (19-2, 18 KOs) Miami, Florida, via Lagos, Nigeria, for the WBC International Silver Heavyweight Championship.

Also scheduled on this blockbuster show is an eight-round fight for the WBC International Silver Featherweight Championship between Muhamet Qamili (17-1-1, 8 KOs) Roma, Lazio, Italy, via Roskovec, Albania, and Alessangel “El Colmillo de Oro” Mayora (18-1, 14 KOs) of Montesano, La Guaira, Venezuela.

Also scheduled for action is a six-round heavyweight bout featuring WBC Grand Prix heavyweight finalist Ahmed “Bosnian Steel” Krnjic (7-1, 4 KOs) of Zenica, Bosnia And Herzegovina; a six-round heavyweight showcase for Konstantinos Plateias (2-0, 2 KOs) of Marousi, Greece; a six-round super middleweight bout featuring Sarhad Nouzad (11-1, 4 KOs) of Greifswald, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany; and a six-round middleweight bout for Ali El Said (12-5-2, 7 KOs) of Essen, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany via Beirut.

All unannounced opponents are TBA at time of release.

And then, at 9:00 pm EDT, ProBoxTV will return with a night of Mexican-style action, emanating from Arena La Paz in La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico and presented by TM Boxing, ProBoxTV, and Sampson Boxing.

In the 10-round featherweight main event, top featherweight contender Luis “The Twist” Nunez (23-0, 15 KOs) of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, will take on rugged Carlos “Gatito” Perez (19-4-1, 6 KOs) of Degollado, Jalisco, Mexico.

The eight-round middleweight co-featured match pits hometown hero Jaime “Monstruo” Osuna (10-0, 5 KOs) of La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico, against established countryman Oliver “Monaguillo” Quintana (23-6, 16 KOs) of Mexicali, Baja California Norte, Mexico.

In the eight -round super welterweight chief-supporting bout, Alejandro Torres (7-0, 3 KOs) of Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico, takes on local prospect Juan “Perron” Cosio (4-2-1, 2 KOs) of La Paz.

On the undercard, Daniel Berumen (4-0-2, 1 KO) of La Paz takes on Carlos Garcia Garces (5-0, 5 KOs) of Mexico City in an eight-round welterweight battle; and Ivan “Colorado” Jimenez (6-0-1, 3 KOs) of Cancun takes on Jeovani Barajas (5-0-1,4 KOs) of Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico, in the six-round bantamweight opener.

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