Jurmain McDonald shocked Evan Holyfield by scoring a one-punch second round knockout in their scheduled six-round welterweight bout.

In round two, McDonald placed a perfect right to the face that sent Holyfield face down, and the fight was stopped at 1:56.

McDonald, 153.5 lbs of Jefferson City, MO is now 7-5 with three knockouts. Holyfield, 153 lbs of Atlanta, GA is 9-1.

Fernando Vargas Jr. remained undefeated with a first-round stoppage over Terrance Jarmon in a battle of undefeated super welterweights.

In round one, Vargas dropped Jarmon with a straight left. Seconds later, it was another left that sent Jarmon down for a second time. The fight was ended with…you guessed it…another straight left that put Jarmon down for a third and final time and the fight was stopped at 2:25.

Vargas Jr., 151.5 lbs of Las Vegas is 6-0 with six knockouts. Jarmon, 148 lbs of Toledo, OH is 3-1.

Amado Vargas remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Anel Dudo

In round four, Vargas was deducted a point for a low blow.

Vargas landed 77 of 389 punches; Dudo was 39 of 187.

Vargas, 130.5 lbs of Las Vegas, NV won by 39-36 tallies on all cards and is now 4-0. Dudo, 128.5 lbs of Aurora, CO is now 1-4.

Los Angeles, May 3, 2022 — Evan Holyfield (9-0, 6 KOs) from Atlanta GA and son of Five Time World Heavyweight Champion Evander Holyfield, is preparing for his May 14 fight at The Kia Forum in Inglewood, CA. TRILLERVERZ 5 will be streamed live on Triller and Fite.tv.

Tickets, starting at $37.00, are on sale and may be purchased through TrillerFightClub.com, TheLAForum.com, and Ticketmaster.com at http://www.ticketmaster.com/trillerverz5

Evan is training in Colorado Springs. It’s the first time in his career doing high altitude training and has been there for over a month.

“It’s my first time training in Colorado Springs,” said Holyfield. “It’s fun being around the people that I am around – my trainers Mike Stafford and Bert Wells and fighters Adrian Broner and Rau’shee Warren.

“You’d think Broner would be a loud-mouth, but he’s kind of funny and a real hard worker.”

Bert Wells have been with Evan since his amateur days and Stafford has been training Evan for four fights.

“The biggest challenge at training camp has been the thin air. I could run and everything else fine, but I was having trouble with the boxing workouts, particularly sparring. I was having trouble catching my breath. I talked to my dad after the first week about the challenges. He said the same thing happened to him the first time he trained in high altitude, and I’ll get acclimated after a week or two and he was 100% right. After a week I felt better and had all of my energy.”

Evan trains six days and week, off on Sundays. Daily workout sessions are at 8 am and 5 pm. Each morning and evening workouts alternate between the boxing gym and conditioning. When conditioning is in the morning, they do a run or play basketball. When strength and conditioning is in the evening it’s at the fitness center with fitness trainer Rob Schwartz.

On Sunday “We may get some basketball in. It’s not as much fun here though, it’s a little harder because of the elevation.”

“I’ve run into Keyshawn Davis a few times at the fitness center and also Terence Crawford and Bomac (Crawford’s trainer Brian McIntyre) while running around the lake.”

With Stafford Evan’s been “working on using my distance and using my jab and the rest you’ll just have to see when it comes down to the fight. been doing the right thing and I’m excited to see what happens.” He has not been working on anything special for this fight since “This is my first time up here so I feel like that is special enough. We haven’t worked on anything specific for this fight, other than working on going to the body. After all, training at this high altitude should be special enough.”

Currently, Evan weighs 155/156 and “weight is never a problem. I weighed about 159/160 when I came into camp. The contract weight is 152 and I may even hit 147 to be honest.”

At the Forum on May 14 will be “Mom for sure, dad maybe, Elijah wants to come but he may be in (Cincinnati) Bengals camp.” Elijah was recently promoted from the practice squad to ‘The 53’ man roster.

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ-Mark Magsayo wrestled the WBC Featherweight title with a 12-round majority decision over long-reigning champion Gary Russell Jr. at The Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa.

Magsayo started off well by going to the body in an effort to slow down Russell. Seconds into round four, Russell seemed to hurt his right shoulder. That seemed to affect him as he did not use his right hand much for the remainder of the fight. Magsayo continued applying pressure and landing with both hands. Russell was able to win some rounds by landing some sharp lead lefts.

Magsayo boxed with ease with Russell using his speed and the occasional quick left. He was outworked by the challenger who fought like the title was in his grasp.

Magsayo landed 150 of 543 punches; Russell was 69 of 323.

It was as Magsayo won by scores of 115-113 twice and 114-114.

Magsayo, 125.5 lbs of The Philippines is 24-0. Russell, 125.5 lbs of Capitol Heights, Maryland is 31-2.

“This is my dream come true,” said Magsayo. “Ever since I was a kid, this was my dream. I’m so proud that I’m a champion now. Thank you so much to the Filipino fans for the support.”

 “I believe I have a torn tendon in my right shoulder,” said Russell. “I haven’t competed in almost two years. This is what true champions do. I wanted to step into the ring and display my superiority regardless of the injury. “I hurt the shoulder about two weeks ago,” continued Russell. “But I went through with the fight because I’m a true champion and this is what warriors do. I’m going to fight regardless of what the situation is. I refuse to not compete and display my skillsets to my fans and the people that came out to show support and love. Please believe that I will be back. I still want these fights.”

“I knew that he was hurt in round four,” said Magsayo. “I took advantage of it because he was only using one hand. This was my opportunity to follow through. My coach was telling me to use good combinations and follow through. He said this is your chance to become a champion and now I am a champion.”

“I believed in my skillset and what I bring into the ring,” said Russell. “I felt like I still won the fight to be honest. Hell yeah I want a rematch. Would he want a rematch? That’s the question.” “It’s up to my promotional team,” said Magsayo when asked about a potential rematch. “But I’m willing to fight anybody. I’m the champion now!”

Matias Stops Ananyan in Rematch War

Subriel Matias stopped Petros Ananyan in a grueling war after round nine of a scheduled 12-round junior welterweight rematch

The two stood about four inches from each other throughout the fight. Ananyan was cut over his right eye as early as round two. That did not deter Ananyan as every time he ate big combination from Matias, he would fire back with hard combinations of his own, He fought back valiantly and got himself back in the fight.

In round seven, Matias was deducted a point for low blows. That seemed to light a new fire under Matias as he started landing more power shots, and in round nine, landed a huge left that spun Ananyan to the canvas. Ananyan took a lot of punches and the fight was stopped in the corner by the ringside doctor after the round.

Matias, 140.5 lbs of Fajrado, PR is now 18-1 with 18 knockouts. Ananyan, 141 lbs of Armenia is 16-3-2.

“This is the fight that I wanted,” said Matias, who was jubilant in victory following the fast-paced affair. “Ever since my defeat to him, I wanted to avenge the loss. When you’re sure about yourself and you know that you have the skills that you have, you take the rematch.”

“I’m not just a hard-hitter but the way that I fight is like cutting down a tree,” said Matias. “Just keep hitting them. I think I can improve my power but let’s see what happens with time. I want to thank everybody who made this fight possible, but I’m going to take my time before deciding who I will fight next.”

Nyambayar and Lukas Fight to a draw

-Former world title challenger Tugstsogt Nyambayar and late-replacement Sakaria Lukas fought to a 10-round draw in a junior lightweight bout.

Lukas seemed to have knocked Nyambayar in round eight, but referee Eddie Claudio ruled it a slip.

Nyambayar landed 125 of 417 punches; Lukas was 111 of 479.

Each fighter took a card 96-94 and a third card was even at 95-95.

Nyambayar, 128 lbs is now 12-2-1. Lukas, 127.5 lbs of Namibia is 25-1-1.

“What I saw in real time, he fell down not from the impact of the blow but from his body language, he just slipped. His feet went and he slipped,” said Claudio post fight to ringside reporter Jim Gray.

 “I thought I won the fight and I didn’t believe it was a knockdown,” said Nyambayar. “It was a hard fight, especially against an opponent on short notice. My goal is to fight for the world title again.” “Everyone saw it was a knockdown that should have given me a split-decision win,” said Lukas, who endured a 27-hour flight to the U.S. for the bout from his native Namibia. “I fought my heart out and I deserved the win. I took the fight on short notice, but I was ready to win. I believe I won the fight, but I can’t do anything about the decision. We had the fans behind us, they know what happened.”

IN-NON-TELEVISED ACTION

Abimael Ortiz pounded out an eight-round unanimous decision over Ryan Allen in a super bantamweight contest.

In round two, Ortiz dropped Allen with a left-right combination.

Ortiz, 123 lbs of Coyey, PR won by scores of 76-75 on all cards and is now 10-1-1. Allen, 122 lbs of Jackson, MI is 10-6-1.

Leshawn Rodriguez destroyed Sixto Suazo inside of a round in their scheduled six-round middleweight bout.

Rodriguez battered Suazo as he landed several flush shots that snapped the head of Suazo and the fight was stopped at 1:36.

Rodriguez, 156.1 lbs of Coram, NY is 13-0 with 10 knockouts. Suazo, 156.3 lbs of Atlanta, GA is 9-3-1.

Evan Holyfield remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Chris Rollins in a super welterweight fight.

Holyfield, 151,5 lbs of Atlanta, GA won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 9-0. Rollins, 151.5 lbs of Charlottsville, VA is 5-4-1.

In a battle of undefeated featherweights, Katsuma Akitsugi won a six-round unanimous decision over Rasheen Brown.

Akitsugi, 123.5 lbs of Japan won by scores of 60-54, 59-55 and 58-56 to raise his record to 8-0. Brown, 124 lbs of Philadelphia is 11-1.

Max Garland stopped Marik Black in the 2nd round of their four-round wheelwright bout.

Garland beat up Black until the fight was stopped at 1:44 of round two.

Garland of Washington, DC was making his pro debut. Black of Versailles, KY is 1-1-1.

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (January 21, 2022) – Unbeaten prospect Evan Holyfield, the son of legendary heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield, will look to kick off what he hopes to be a big 2022 campaign when he takes on Chris Rollins in a six-round bout on the non-televised undercard this Saturday, January 22 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, N.J.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com. Holyfield’s fight is promoted by TGB Promotions and Main Events.

“My goals for 2022 are to remain undefeated and win Prospect of the Year,” said Holyfield. “I have to start by winning on January 22. I’ve been growing at a steady rate. Every time I fight I try to keep showing some type of evolution based on what I’ve been doing in the gym during training.”

Despite the large shadow created by his father’s many accomplishments, Holyfield, nicknamed “Yung Holy”, has been able to keep himself focused on his craft instead of worrying about any outside perceptions his family ties might cause.

“I don’t spend too much time thinking about creating my own lane or getting out of my dad’s shadow because I know I’m my own man and that we are different as fighters,” said Holyfield. “My brother plays in the NFL and every game they still mention my dad, even though it has nothing to do with boxing. They’re always going to mention my dad and that’s fine.

“With every fight it’s a chance for people to see who I am and see the differences between us as fighters. That’s the only thing that makes people change their minds and see who I am, is when you show them something. My dad has always been really supportive and encouraging. He’s always been there for any questions that I have. And it’s always nice to make him proud when I do well.”

Co-trained by coaches Mike Stafford and Bert Wells, Holyfield has split his training camp between the Cincinnati Golden Gloves gym and the Paul Murphy Boxing Club in Atlanta. The 24-year-old added three victories in 2021 as he now prepares for his first 2022 outing on Saturday night.

“I approach every camp seriously and with a determined mindset,” said Holyfield. “I’ve learned a lot this camp and I’m ready for January 22. I know I’m facing an opponent who’s about my height, so I think he’s going to try to use his jab a lot against me. I’m going to approach it like all of my fights, which is to do what I can to hit and not get hit. A lot of these fighters try to change their looks against me, so I’ll just have to see what he does on fight night.”

Holyfield is looking forward to the opportunity to compete on Saturday night and maintains he’s going to bring excitement to the ring, along with the ring generalship that helped make his father an all-time great in the sport.

“I’m definitely an exciting fighter,” said Holyfield. “I feel like I can adapt to any situation. I can box when I have to box, and fight when I have to fight. The main thing is to hit and not get hit and protect yourself from taking damage.”

Also on the card is another of Main Events’ prospects – undefeated LeShawn Rodriguez (12-0, 9 KOs) from Port Jefferson, NY. He will battle Sixto Suazo (9-2-1, 7 KOs) in a six-round middleweight bout.

Shakur Stevenson became a two-division champion with an emphatic 10th round stoppage over reigning champion Jamel Herring to capture the WBO Junior Lightweight championship at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.

Stevenson used his superior ability to dominate the action and systematically beat down of Herring.

In Round three, Herring started to swell under his left eye

In round 10, Herring was cut over the eight eye. In round 10, Stevenson landed about seven shots for which forced a referee stoppage at 1:30.

Zayas stops Karpency after 4

Xander Zayas remained undefeated with a stoppage over Dan Karpency after round four of a six-round junior middleweight fight.

Zayas, 153.2 lbs of San Juan, PR is now 10-0 with eight knockouts. Karpency, 153.2 lbs of Adah, PA is 9-4-1.

Ali Walsh stops Westley II in 3

The grandson of Muhammad Ali, Nico Ali Walsh scored his 2nd consecutive knockout with a third round stoppage over James Westley II in a scheduled four-round middleweight fight.

In round two, Ali Walsh dropped Westley with a hard right.

At the beginning of round three, Walsh dropped Westley again with a right and Westley’s corner waved the towel at 2:30.

ALi Walsh, 162 lbs of Las Vegas is 2-0 with two knockouts. Westley, 159.6 lbs of Toledo, OH is 1-1.

Evan Holyfield stopped Charles Stanford in round two of a scheduled six-round junior middleweight fight.

In round two, Holyfield landed a booming left hook that was followed by a right cross that sent Stanford down and his head bounced off the canvas as the fight was stopped at 30 seconds.

Holyfield, 151.6 lbs is the son of the legendary Evander Holyfield and now raised his record to 8-0 with six knockouts. Stanford, 151.6 lbs of Cincinnati, OH is 6-4.

2021 U.S. Olympian Troy Isley stopped Nicholi Navarro in the 1st round of their four-round middleweight fight.

Isley bounced Navarro all over the ring until He landed two hard uppercuts that put Navarro down and the fight was stopped at 2:48.

Isley, 156.8 lbs of Alexandria, VA is 3-0 with two knockouts. Navarro, 156 lbs of Denver, CO is 2-2.

Eric Palmer scored an upset six-round split decision over previously undefeated Roddricus Livsey in a junior welterweight bout.

Palmer, 141 lbs of Uniontown, PA won by scores of 58-56 twice, while Livesey took a card 59-55.

Palmer is 13-14-6. Livsey, 142.4 lbs of Atlanta is 8-1-1.

Haven Brady Jr. remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Roberto Negrete in a battle of undefeated featherweights.

Brady, 127 lbs of Albany, GA won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 4-0. Negrete, 127 lbs of Corpus Christie, TX is 3-1.

Antoine Cobb needed just 58 seconds to obliterate Jerrion Campbell in a four-round junior welterweight contest.

Cobb landed a booming right hand hat sent Campbell under the ropes and the fight was stopped.

Cobb, 144.2 lbs of Chicago was making his pro debut. Campbell, 142.4 lbs of Jacksonville, TX is 2-2

Harley Maderos won a four-round unanimous decision over Deljerro Randle in a lightweight fight.

In round one, Maderos dropped Ravello with a right hand.

Maderos, 136 lbs of Brooklyn, NY won on all cards 40-35 and is now 2-0. Randle, 135.8 lbs of Brighton, CO is 0-2.

Boston (July 19, 2021):

Boston Boxing Promotions is proud to present the biggest boxing event to take place in New England since the pandemic, The Great American Boxing Bash, three consecutive Friday Nights of boxing live from the legendary Castleton in Windham, New Hampshire and broadcast for free on Boston Boxing Promotion’s YouTube Page.

The regional excitement surrounding The Great American Boxing Bash is unprecedented with tickets to the first event selling out shortly after going on sale and now being sold online at 4 times the face value.

“Although Boston Boxing Promotions was able to run 4 empty venue events during the pandemic, hardcore boxing fans in and around New England have not been able to attend a live event in over a year and half. The demand was so overwhelming from both fighters and fans, we decided to do three straight weekends featuring over 30 fights.” Said Boston Boxing Promotions president, Peter Czymbor.

“And if there was one fight that our fans have been begging for it is the long awaited neighborhood war between two of our most popular fighters, Harry Gigliotti (7-2, 3 KOs) and Brandon Higgins (7-1, 5 KOs). This fight has been building in anticipation among local boxing fans since both fighters turned pro and now with virtually identical records, it’s a true 50/50 fight and the winner will be ready for the national stage.”

In addition to the highly anticipated Gigliotti vs. Higgins showdown, The Great American Boxing Bash will feature:

The most popular and talented fighter to emerge from Maine since Joey Gamache, Brandon Berry (22-5-2, 15 KOs) who fights Travis Casetellon (16-4-1, 12 KOs) for the NABA-USA Welterweight Title.

The return of undefeated blue chip prospect, Evan Holyfield (6-0, 4 KOs), son of Hall of Famer and only 4 time heavyweight world champion, Evander Holyfield.

The return of Massachusetts’ undefeated Amanda Pavone (8-0, 3 KOs) who is closing in on a world title shot.

An appearance from Oxnard, California single shot knockout sensation, Danny Robles (6-0-1, 4 KOs) who went viral last year on a Boston Boxing Promotions event when he set a state record for fastest KO at 13 seconds.

Connecticut’s buzzed about national amateur standout, Alejandro Paulino (1-0, 1 KO), who recently turned professional on a Boston Boxing event and is already considered one of New England’s most promising prospects.

Undefeated heavyweight, James Torney (4-0, 4 KOs) who has been serving as one of Deontay Wilder’s chief sparring partners in preparation for his mega fight with Tyson Fury.

And a who’s who of fighters from one of the hottest regional boxing scene in the country including James Perkins (4-0-1, 3 KOs), Nick Molina (3-0, 1 KO), Travis Gambardella (6-1-2, 2 KOs), Kris Jacobs (3-1-1, 1 KO), Kyle Cusick (2-1) and many more.

Despite knowing all 3 shows would be sold out, it was still important to Czymbor and company that the national audience that the promotion gained during the pandemic not be forgotten. Therefore the Great American Boxing Bash will remain free to watch live and online with commentary from fan favorite, BoxRec’s Grey Johnson and a revolving door of special guest commentators that has included on past broadcasts, boxing legends like Micky Ward.

“After the the amazing viewership we received for our empty venue shows during the pandemic, we wanted those fans from around the country and the world to be able experience the excitement that is Boston Boxing Promotions at the Castleton, a venue which has become New England’s version of the late, great Blue Horizon. We can’t wait to showcase one of the best regional boxing scenes in the country with the Great American Boxing Bash.”

The Great American Boxing Bash presented by Boston Boxing Promotions takes place Friday, July 23rd, Friday, July 30th and Friday August 6th at the Castleton in Windham, New Hampshire. Tickets for July 23rd are completely sold out. Very limited tickets remain for July 30th and August 6th and are available at www.boxingnh.com. All three nights will be aired live on www.YouTube.com/BoxingBoston

ABOUT BOSTON BOXING PROMOTIONS

Boston Boxing Promotions was founded in 2013 and is dedicated to the resurgence of professional boxing at the regional level, particularly in the New England area. Since that time, it has presented professional boxing events in places like Boston, Cape Cod, New Bedford and New Hampshire. Boston Boxing Promotions was the first independent boxing promoter on the east coast to hold an event during the pandemic, last August when they held an empty venue show in Windham, New Hampshire that was broadcast for free on YouTube and watched live by thousands of boxing fans worldwide. After 4 empty venue events for free and broadcast online at www.youtube.com/bostonboxing Boston Boxing Promotions returns with The Great American Boxing Bash, three consecutive Friday Nights of boxing July 23, July 30 and August 6. All three events will be broadcast live and for free on www.youtube.com/bostonboxing

Follow Boston Boxing Promotions on Social Media!

EVAN HOLYFIELD (4-0, 3 KOs) talks about his training camp, return to the ring against Donnis Reed in Jonesboro, GA, his dad and Holyfield-Tyson 3.

“I am with a whole new training staff right now, back down in Atlanta where I came up through the amateur ranks, with my former trainers and a new addition of Mark Breland. Everyone around here is like family, even Mark as I got to know him a little better and I’m happy and there is nothing more dangerous than a happy fighter. I am round a lot of good energy and a lot of good people. There have been some tough sparring days and some tough training days. I’ve been working on some new tools with Mark and adding some elements to my game. I feel like I really sacrificed for this camp and I’m anxious to see the results. You are going to see something different and I can’t wait to get in there to show people what I have learned. I’m pretty excited to see what happens.

Above L-R: Bert Wells, Mark Breland, Evan, Courtney Williams, Tony Williams
Below: Breland and Evan Courtesy Evan Holyfield

“I feel like it’s an early Christmas gift and I understand that everybody has not had the opportunity to get a fight this year and I feel like I am really blessed to get the opportunity.

“On Saturday, I know he is going to try and push me but being pushed comes with an evolution of yourself. The last three fights have been a tremendous experience for me, especially the last one going the distance.

“It’s a blessing to have my last name but it is also a blessing to be working towards living up to it

“Could my dad train me? My dad couldn’t train me because he understands it is an investment in time and that’s hard being the way he is and with what he possibly has coming up (Tyson?). Plus it’s not always easy to have the business in the family. If you are a trainer you have to be there all the time. Mark Breland is a dedicated trainer and he is going to be there no matter what part of the day as well as my other trainer Bert Wells. But my dad and me from talking regularly and he is always out there to help when needed. He always tells me to keep a level head, and the work I put in will be the results I get out, be in shape and to do what I do best – always throw combinations and don’t be there to be hit. He’s been by to see training and is pretty impressed with what we’ve been working on. He said to stay focused and work hard and that’s the name of the game. It’s all about staying ready and not getting ready.

“So, my dad training me is out but I do want to spar him one time.”

“I don’t feel like I am following in my dad’s footsteps, I feel like the sport has chosen me. I had my first fight at 8 years old but then my mom took me out of it – she didn’t like seeing her 8 year old child getting hit, so then I went to Taekwondo and was #1 in the nation for about a year. Then I got DQ’d for hitting someone too hard in the head so my dad said maybe you should try boxing where you can’t get DQ’d for hitting someone in the head. But I was getting kicked so I had to put the equalizer on him.

In high school all the kids were investing in one sport and one day I came downstairs and told my mom and dad “I want to do boxing and this is the only sport I want to do.” My dad said, ‘you know people are going to want to hurt you and compare you to me so if you are going to do this do it for yourself.’ I had my ups and downs in the beginning. My mom offered me many times to quit but this is really what I stuck to.

On Tyson and Holyfield-Tyson 3
“I was really impressed with Mike Tyson not having fought for as long as he has. I’ve been watching his YouTube videos and he’s been smoking a lot of weed so I was surprised that he had some wind too. It was good to see because everybody likes Mike Tyson. I didn’t think it was a draw but as long as they came out with good health and had a good time.

“My dad’s been training and getting back into shape and I know it’s something that he’s been wanting. So all of his training we thought was for no reason but it may be paying off. My dad will do what he did the first two times. You know, water and oil don’t always mix. My dad just seems to be Mike Tyson’s oil, so we will just have to see.

“I feel like a third fight with Mike Tyson would be great especially if his ear stays in tact. Of course, I got my pop.

CASSIUS CHANEY (19-0, 13 KOs) fights Jason Bergman (27-18, 18 KOs).

“I had training camp in Miami with Luis Ortiz’ trainer German Caicedo. Training camp was HARD, it was good though, but tough. I know that the sacrifice was there and as long as I am pushing through it and get through the training, I know when I fight it’s going to be easy. But it’s tough on everybody. I know that people are going through those days, like dang, but I’m cool with it.

“German has been around a long time – he has trained Shannon Briggs and has had Luis Ortiz basically his whole career since he came to the America. I went down to German in April to try it out. We stay in the gym. We are in a warehouse. There are seven of us that live there but I am the only American fighter – there is a Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Panamanian and an African. We are in West Miami and the only place I have ventured out to is Walmart – (laughing) I know where everything is in Walmart now.

“I’m just happy to get back in there, I need to keep busy. My body is getting stronger. The stuff I have been going through in the gym makes me realize, ‘hey, if I can get through this, when I fight, that’s the prize.’ That’s the fun part – when I put it together. I’m rounding out as a professional now.

“I think in 2021 I should have a couple of step up fights. There are some guys out there that make sense but it also has to make sense to them. I’m in a tricky situation. Main Events wants to be careful but they also want me to show them I’m getting better. I think once I hit the TV stream, the fans will enjoy my style. It’s just a matter of me putting in the work.

“I don’t watch the video (of me knocking Joe Caudle out of the ring) but people show it to me all the time or tag me in it. I don’t watch it because I threw so many punches that were so wrong, because I was mad at him. He was talking trash for so long, we were supposed to fight two years prior and it started then. He was going on social media saying he had a body bag for me and my mom saw it and my brother saw it, then after the fight he turns right around and asks me for advice! And I gave it to him!

“So I was sitting on that trash talk for so long that when the fight came around, that’s why my reaction was what it was then I was like, ‘wow, he went out of the ring.’ Then I was like ‘dang, it’s over’ then he tried to get back in the ring and I’m like “this dude is crazy.” I was in shock but then I was more in shock that he was trying to get back in the ring. I think there was a ghost next to him or something to save him from a horrible fall. Then the referee did the right thing.”

Regarding Bergman: “He’s a veteran and seems quite durable. I have to make my presence felt right away, to overwhelm him. I really want to use my jab and work on my range and he really shouldn’t touch me but I really want to be able to get some rounds in and show that I am learning as a professional and doing things different than I did in my last fight – getting better.”

Irving, TX, March 7, 2020 — Evan “Yung Holy” Holyfield (3-0, 3 KOs) made his professional debut on November 2, 2019 and will fight his fourth fight tonight, Saturday, March 7, at the Toyota music Factory in Irving, Texas. Evan’s Head Coach Termite Watkins and his father Evander Holyfield discuss the process of the super middleweight, in which Evander’s take always lead to a story.

Watch Evan’s last fight (Feb. 8) here – catch Elijah and Evander ringside at the end https://youtu.be/F1TD1Ls6wLU

TERMITE WATKINS
We definitely want the fights to go longer (:16 KO, round 3 KO & 1:22 KO respectively), that’s where we get the experience but the main thing is we want him to learn the ring. This fight we have tomorrow the guy has one win and one draw (Dylan Carlson, 1-0-1, 1 KO) – Evan has 3 fights. It should be somewhat of an equal match. Then next time we will pick it up a little more and I’d like to find someone that has maybe five wins and five losses, but until he gets comfortable in the ring, until he gets to learning it, then, yes, we will progress slowly.

It’s just a process and getting him used to the ring. We could put him in against guys that are much better than him, and he would beat them, but they would be wars. We want to have our wars later – not right now – we want to get him experience. That’s what this is all about – experience.

Every fight he has been in he has learned something, without a doubt. He’s learned how to be aggressive. This time he is probably going to move and box more, depending on circumstances. We are handpicking things that we want to work on and each time we work on something different. One fight we worked on our right hand, one fight we worked on our left. This fight we will be working more on boxing and using his jab more. This fight our goal is to use our jab a whole lot more. From there we will pick up the pace – he has had three fights so far, then at the time we feel comfortable it will start moving real quick, but we are not going to move real quick until we are comfortable.

EVANDER HOLYFIELD
Evan is doing good but it’s kind of hard to tell when you first start off because you are trying to figure out what type of fighters he is fighting compared to who that champion is in that weight division, to know where he has to get. Right now I think just getting him comfortable when he’s in there and showing that it’s not that much different than being in the gym.

Evan is kind of skillful and I think you get tested when you get good sparring partners – somebody who has done something, somebody that used to be a champion.

I remember when I sparred against the guy from Philadelphia (Bert Cooper) that made George Foreman quit boxing the first time. They put him in there and my trainer Georgie Benton told me I wouldn’t even get a lick on him and the first round I took it slow trying to figure him out. The second round I hit him with a combination ‘boom, boom, boom, boom, boom, boom.’ It was more than the three punches he normally got – it was six, seven or eight because I know he could block the first two. He thought I would pull back after the first two but I hit him with the next six (laughing) and they had to pull me off him.

(Back to Evan) So I am looking forward to him stepping it up to another level. He was a good amateur fighter and as he’s coming along. He’ll have to find someone that will keep him on the outside. Right now he is keeping the opponents on the outside. People that are aggressive can’t stand the other guy being aggressive, and with me I always knew that – like with Mike Tyson – he couldn’t fight going backwards to save his life and I knew that so I pushed him backwards and it proved the fact that people don’t want people to do things to you that you do to them. (Then he bit your ear) Yep (laughing), he sure did.

(Do you get excited for his fights?) I kind of push my emotions down because I know that’s the way I was supposed to be when I fought, but it’s difficult because I’m his father. I make myself emotionless, and not look at it being big and all this. Being able to look at him and he won’t see any stress on my face regardless.

I realize that I come from a very emotional family and it always bothered me and it made me think “ya’ll don’t believe in me.” I remember with the first fight against Dwight Muhammad Qawi, they all said ‘you are throwing him in there too quick,’ but I always believed I could beat anybody they put in the ring.

EVAN HOLYFIELD
I’ve seen my opponent fight and I know he is going to come to fight. I am just going to go out there and hit and don’t get hit and let my punches do the talking. Regarding my dad and my last name . . . I don’t feel any pressure. When I get in the ring I fight for myself. I am in the ring for me. I don’t care if no one showed up to watch. I don’t care if I had my mom’s last name, I would still go in there to give it my all. I feel like I have the talent that got me this far and it is just a matter of staying focused, staying in love with the sport.

COMPARING
My dad and I were the same size all through our lives and now we are both 6’2” but I am still eating my Wheaties to try to get that extra inch.

• * *

Lone Star State-based non-profit organization Ring of Hope returns for a resounding night of sanctioned professional boxing when it presents its ninth annual “Night To Fight” pro boxing and charity event on Saturday, March 7 at the Toyota Music Factory in Irving, Texas. The main event will present an 8 round light heavyweight attraction between two battle-tested warriors when Dallas-Fort Worth born-and-bred boxer Samuel Clarkson (22-5, 15 KOs) challenges the Freddie Roach-trained Israel Duffus (19-6, 16 KOs). Also to be featured in separate bouts are welterweights Jessy Martinez (14-0, 9 KOs) and Brandyn Lynch (10-1, 8 KOs), cruiserweight Robin Safar (10-0, 7 KOs) and heavyweight Patrick Mailata (4-0, 2 KOs), Austin-based super lightweight Robert Kevin Garcia (6-0, 5 KOs) and the Corpus Christi-based lightweight John Rincon (4-0, 2 KOs).

Night To Fight will be available live on Integrated Sports Pay Per View on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV and DISH in the United States, Shaw PPV in Canada and worldwide via the FITE.TV app and website.

Hall of Fame Showtime TV broadcaster Al Bernstein, former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi and LA Times and Boxing Scene journalist and writer Manouk Akopyan will call the action from ringside.

RVING, TX (February 25, 2020) — Lone Star State-based non-profit organization Ring of Hope returns for a resounding night of sanctioned professional boxing when it presents its ninth annual “Night To Fight” pro boxing and charity event on Saturday, March 7 at the Toyota Music Factory in Irving, Texas.

The main event will present an 8 round light heavyweight attraction between two battle-tested warriors when Dallas-Fort Worth born-and-bred boxer Samuel Clarkson (22-5, 15 KOs) challenges the Freddie Roach-trained Israel Duffus (19-6, 16 KOs).

The marquee match of the night will culminate to serve as the major fundraising event to help support the Ring of Hope boxing program. Since 2010, Ring of Hope has transformed communities and changed the lives of the youth by educating, empowering and engaging students through the fundamentals of boxing.

“I’m often asked why I’ve had such a desire to be a part of Ring of Hope. It’s all about the future of the young men and women in our communities,” said Ring of Hope founder Steven Bolos. “We believe for them, believe in them and believe with and through them that they can be the leaders of tomorrow.”

Evan “Yung Holy” Holyfield (3-0, 3 KOs), the son of Hall of Fame fighter Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield, will continue on his quest to follow in his legendary father’s footsteps when the 22-year-old returns to the ring. Presented by Main Events, the Houston-based Holyfield made his pro boxing debut in November with his legendary father supporting ringside.

Local talent and 18-year-old standout Tristan Kalkreuth (4-0, 3 KOs), who last year inked a deal with Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions, will continue his climb up the ranks in a separate fight as well. Kalkreuth was born in Carrollton and is a resident of Duncanville. He’s trained by renowned coach Ronnie Shields, and has a decorated amateur background, where he participated in over 100 fights, earned two National Championships and fought for the USA Boxing Team in the World Championships in 2018.

Also to be featured in separate bouts are welterweights Jessy Martinez (14-0, 9 KOs) and Brandyn Lynch (10-1, 8 KOs), cruiserweight Robin Safar (10-0, 7 KOs) and heavyweight Patrick Mailata (4-0, 2 KOs), Austin-based super lightweight Robert Kevin Garcia (6-0, 5 KOs) and the Corpus Christi-based lightweight John Rincon (4-0, 2 KOs).

Night To Fight will be available live on Integrated Sports Pay Per View on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV and DISH in the United States, Shaw PPV in Canada and worldwide via the FITE.TV app and website.

Hall of Fame Showtime TV broadcaster Al Bernstein, former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi and LA Times and Boxing Scene journalist and writer Manouk Akopyan will call the action from ringside.

Limited tickets and VIP dinner tables can be obtained through a sponsorship to Ring of Hope. For more information, go to www.ringofhope.com.

The Toyota Music Factory is located at 300 West Las Colinas Boulevard in Irving, Texas.

For more information on sponsorships, volunteering or to enroll a child in a Ring of Hope program, please email [email protected]. To provide a safe place for youth in the Dallas Fort Worth area to participate in after school boxing programs, click here to donate.

For up to date information, news and developments, visit www.RingOfHope.com, and follow along online on the following Ring of Hope platforms—Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
? Highlights from previous Ring of Hope Night To Fight events

? Photos from 2019 Night To Fight, which took place Feb. 28 at the Frontiers Of Flight Museum in Dallas. The fight card featured undefeated prospects, former US Olympians and the likes of Hall of Famer fighter Thomas Hearn and The First Lady of Boxing Jackie Kallen in attendance.

ABOUT RING OF HOPE: Founded in 2010 by Steve Bolos, Ring of Hope is a non-profit organization that seeks to educate, empower and engage the youth through the fundamentals of boxing. With two gym locations—the South Dallas Club and the Colony Club—Ring of Hope emphasises on leadership development, fitness programs and community outreach while teaching the discipline of boxing. The locations also provide a safe place for youth in the Dallas Fort Worth area to participate in after school boxing programs. Through the sweet science, Ring of Hope’s coaches and volunteers empower youth to become more committed to health, fitness and wellness while also inspiring them to become more engaged in their community.

Daytona Beach, February 7, 2020 — Evan “Yung Holy” Holyfield’s (2-0, 2 KOs)fights tomorrow night on a card promoted by Christy Martin Promotions and takes place at Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach.

The event will be live streamed via Facebook and YouTube on Payne Boxing Television channels.

Here is a conversation with Evan . . .

I’m feeling great. I have done all my hard work and preparation in Houston and quite frankly, the weather is great here in Daytona Beach compared to what it’s like there right now so it’s a pleasure to be here. The Hard Rock hotel is great also, there is a lot of memorabilia here and it gives you the rock’n roll vibe. I woke up this morning, went out on the deck and listened to the waves.

How was it turning pro?

It was a blessing and a great experience to fight on that (Canelo-Kovalev) card, fighting alongside some of my favorite fighters and I took in every little bit that I could.

I spend most of my time in Texas since I have turned pro to train since I have been having fights back-to-back.

How is your dad feeling about all of this?

My father loves me just as any father would love his son and he always wants me to do better. He tells me that each generation should be better than the previous so he is always pushing me to work hard to be better.

Do you get nervous having your dad at ringside?

When I get in the ring I don’t think about him being there because down the road there are going to be many others watching and if I got nervous fighting in front of my dad I would really be nervous fighting in front of others. I work hard whether he is there or not, and even if there was nobody there watching I will work my hardest and do my best.

Do you try to go for the knockout?

I come in there to do my job and I don’t get paid overtime, but at the same boxing is the name of the game and that’s what I do and it doesn’t matter how it turns out as long as I get the W.

Do you feel like you’re following in your dad’s footsteps?

I wouldn’t say I am following in his footsteps; boxing is just something that fell on me. I had my first fight at 8, and won, then my mom took me and put me in every sport she possibly could until I was 14. Then one day I cam downstairs and sat them both down and said “I am ready to focus on just one sport.”

At the time, growing up with my brother Elijah, he began to only focused on football and it was taking him places, so you can’t have your hand it too many things. I didn’t like team sports because everyone was always pointing at each other and boxing is one of those sports that what you put in is what you get out. So I fell in love with that and I fell in love with the whole story of boxing – there are two guys and each has a story and it is more personable. Eventually after 80 amateur fights, my dad gave me his blessing to turn pro.

Are you excited about your brother?

My bother is now with the (Philadelphia) Eagles. At first he was with the (Carolina) Panthers but I know Philadelphia has way more stuff going on than Carolina so it’s good for him. And I’ll be there, having some Philly cheesesteaks.

I have ten bothers and sisters and I feel that a lot of them could have continued in sports if they really wanted to but everyone seems to be happy with their life and happy with where their paths have taken them.

Elijah and I, being so close (within a year), we are always trying to one-up each other. So here we are.

OK, you against your dad at 22 – who wins?

I think he doesn’t win it. But he thinks he would win it. But that’s what any boxer would say.

I study my dad’s style but boxing is a melting pot of things. You can’t be like one person. I started studying him watching his Olympic tapes – that is my favorite style, watching him box. Styles change in every fight but my favorite was the way he fought in Qawi 2 – it was beautiful. I take styles from Pacquiao, Sugar Ray Robinson and Rigondeaux.

With speed comes power, well sometimes, but in my case it does

Does your dad’s legacy motivate you or make you nervous?

I get nervous for every fight and it makes me think, why am I nervous? I am not nervous because I am scared, I am nervous because I want to do great from my own expectations. There is a difference between nervous and being scared. You get scared before you get a whooping from your parents but just nervous for a fight. The fight is where you put everything you did in the gym into fruition.

I talk to my dad a lot but it’s never like I’ve got to fill his shoes because you have to understand he paved the road, but once you get to that end of the road you’ve got to pave your own road. That’s why I am so excited to fight because every time I fight, the people watching say ‘of yea, he is different from his dad. He can box a little bit more, he is a little faster, he may have a little bit more creativity.’ There is a vast difference between our styles. That’s why I am so eager to box, to show people the difference. And he was a little more buff, but we are going to get there one day. On the other hand that was a different time and there is no need to compare side-by-side, but legacy makes its own name.

As far as legacy and everything, when I get in that ring I want to be the one that is not getting hit.

Did you ever try MMA?
I did Tae Kwon Do and I was nationally ranked for two years. See in boxing, you only get hit with padded things, so why would I go into a sport where I get hit with everything but the pads?

What about Saturday’s fight?

On Saturday night I am fighting Travis Nero and I think he has six fights and . . . he is an opponent.

You have to worry about being overconfident because anything can happen in the ring and that’s what makes the sport. One punch can change the whole game plan. You never know what can happen once you get punched. There is a difference between being cocky and being confident. It is really trusting and being faithful. Certain are already written out and stuff happens

You have had 3 fights in 90-some days?

Yes, it is my job, and what else am I going to do? If I don’t go to the gym or practice, the day just doesn’t feel right.

2-0 is a good start but we are working on everything. Every fight is a different fight, so I like that.

The thing about amateurs is, as a pro you get to study an opponent for a whole month and get their style. In the amateurs you are fighting someone different every single day for three rounds and of course you are going to get hit. People think because of the head gear that the punches will be a little softer but the head gear only helps with the head buts.

What is it like to work with Christy Martin?

Christy Martin – she is a dog – you know what I mean? I’m not trying to be disrespectful or anything but by saying she is a dog is meaning she is going to get the job done inside the ring. If it was her mom stepping in that ring she would probably try to get her out of there. She is a tue warrior and it is great to get to work besides somebody like that. She knows the game, and she knows what it’s like to get hit too.

Houston, TX, January 16, 2020 — Evan “Yung Holy” Holyfield’s (2-0, 2 KOs) next fight will take place on a Christy Martin Promotions card at Hard Rock Hotel Daytona on Saturday, February 8.

Boxing legend Christy Martin stopped by Holyfield’s Houston Training Camp to look in on Four-Time World Heavyweight Champion Evander Holyfield’s son and came away impressed.

“Most importantly he is a great young man,”said Christy. “He has great speed and power. His work ethic looks unbeatable.”

“It was really great that Christy came by and she gave me some psychological tips to use during my training,” Evan said. “Right now we are in the middle of camp – sparring just started and things are getting more intense, which I like. I enjoy when things are hard.”

This Daytona Beach is about a six hour drive from Atlanta, where Evan grew up. “I am excited to fight in Daytona – it’s a little closer than my two previous fights. Mom says she is coming with some of the fam. My amateur coach plans to make the drive down, and so are a few friends. I also have a couple of friends in the military that are based in Daytona that will also be there.”

Holyfield announced himself to the professional boxing world on the Canelo-Kovalev November 2 fight card at MGM Grand with a spectacular seventeen second stoppage (TKO 1), which you can watch HERE His second fight took place in Houston on November 23, stopping his opponent with a vicious body shot (KO 4). Watch the viral body shot KO HERE

The event will be live streamed via Facebook and YouTube on Payne Boxing Television channels. More information will become available as we get close to the event.

Houston, Texas — The event will be headlined by heavyweight Dominick Guinn fighting for the American Boxing Federation Western Division Title, with Jerrico “Hands of Stone” Walton in the featured co-main event seeking to remain undefeated at 16-0. The card will also feature Evan Holyfield, son of Hall of Fame Heavyweight Champion Evander Holyfield, in his second pro fight. Rounding out the card we will see Andre “Silverback” August, Joseph Rivera, Jesus Gonzales, Gabriel Smith, Christon Edwards, David Limerick, Rafael Medina, and Jayquan Hazel.

The live fight will take place on November 23, 2019 at the Arabia Shrine Event Center located at 10510 Harwin Drive, Houston, Texas 77036 with the doors opening at 6:00 PM and first fight beginning at 7:00 PM. For more information contact Joe Vredevelt at 346-800-3776.

Houston, Texas — On Friday, November 22, 2019, ForceTrain Promotions and NextFightUp will be hosting the public weigh-in and press conference for the professional boxing event set for November 23, 2019 at the Arabia Shrine Event Center.

The press conference and weigh-in will take place at the Hilton Garden Inn located at 6855 W. Sam Houston Parkway, Houston, Texas 77072 on November 22, 2019 starting with the press conference promptly at 11:00 AM and followed by the fighters taking the scale for the official weigh-in immediately thereafter.

The event will be headlined by heavyweight Dominick Guinn fighting for the American Boxing Federation Western Division Title, with Jerrico “Hands of Stone” Walton in the featured co-main event seeking to remain undefeated at 16-0. The card will also feature Evan Holyfield, son of Hall of Fame Heavyweight Champion Evander Holyfield, in his second pro fight. Rounding out the card we will see Andre “Silverback” August, Joseph Rivera, Jesus Gonzales, Gabriel Smith, Christon Edwards, David Limerick, Rafael Medina, and Jayquan Hazel.

The live fight will take place on November 23, 2019 at the Arabia Shrine Event Center located at 10510 Harwin Drive, Houston, Texas 77036 with the doors opening at 6:00 PM and first fight beginning at 7:00 PM. For more information contact Joe Vredevelt at 346-800-3776.

Canelo Alvarez won the WBO Light Heavyweight title with a 11th round knockout over Sergey Kovalev at The MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

It was a tactical fight with Kovalev throwing nothing but jabs, while Canelo was looking to counter hard shots. Kovalev was effective, especially early with that strategy as he was able to keep Canelo at bay.

Canelo seemed to get a little closer in the middle rounds with his counter shots. Kovalev rebounded nicely as he started throwing some power shots.

In round 11, Alvarez landed a left to the chin that stunned Kovalev badly. That was followed up by a crushing right that slumped Kovalev between the bottom and 2nd ropes, and referee Russell Mora stopped the fight immediately at 2;15.

Alvarez, who won a title in his 4th weight division, checked in at 174 1/2 lbs, and the Guadalajara, MEX native is now 53-1-2 with 36 knockouts. Kovalev, 175 lbs of Russia is 34-4-1.

Ryan Garcia made an emphatic statement as he stopped Romero Duno in the 1st round of their scheduled 12-round lightweight bout.

Garcia landed a big right that was followed up by a left that sent Duno on his pants, and the fight was stopped at 1:38.

Garcia, 135 lbs of Victorville, CA is 19-0 with 16 knockouts. Duno, 135 lbs of Los Angeles, CA is 21-2.

Seniesa Estrada defeated Marlen Esparza via technical decision after round nine in a battle of undefeated flyweights to win the WBA Interim Flyweight title.

In round five, the two clashed head very hard and a deep cut opened up on the forehead of Esparza. Estrada was more active and slowly beat down Esparza. With the cut deepening, Estrada could not continue after the 9th round.

Estrada, 110.5 lbs of East Los Angeles won by scores of 90-81, 89-82 and 88-83 to raise her mark to 18-0. Esparza, 111 lbs of Houston, Texas is 7-1.

Blair Cobbs remained undefeated with a stoppage after round six over Carlos Ortiz in a welterweight fight

In round one, Ortiz caught Cobbs with left to the head that forced the glove of Cobbs to hit the canvas for a knockdown.

In round six, Cobbs dropped Ortiz hard with a hard overhand left. Cobbs landed a nice body combination in the round and the could have been the stoppage flurry as Ortiz quit in the corner after the round citing pain in his rib area.

Cobbs, 147 lbs of Las Vegas is 13-0-1 with nine knockouts. Cobbs, 146 lbs of Mexico is 11-5.

The son of the legend, Evan Holyfield needed just 16 seconds to stop Nick Winstead in Holyfield’s pro debut in a scheduled four-round middleweight fight.

Holyfield, 154 lbs of Atlanta is 1-0 with one knockout. Winstead, 156 lbs of Albita Springs, LA is 0-2.

Bakhram Murtazaliev won a 12-round unanimous decision over Jorge Fortea in a junior middleweight elimination bout.

In round four, Murtazaliev had swelling around his left eye. That seemed to wake him as he stated to up his punch rate and came home with the victory by scores of 120-108, 119-109 and 118-110.

Murtazaliev, 154 lbs of Grozny, RUS is 17-0. Forte, 153.5 lbs of Sueca, SPA is 20-2-1.

Tristan Kalkreuth won a four-round unanimous decision over Twon Smith in a cruiserweight bout.

Kalkreuth, 188 lbs of Arlington, TX won by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37 to got to 3-0. Smith, 188.5 lbs of Oklahoma City is 3-4.

Meirim Nursaltanov won a 10-round unanimous decision over Cristian Olivas in a middleweight bout.

Nursaltanov, 160 lbs of Merki, KAZ won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 13-0. Olivas, 160 lbs of Mexicali. MC is 16-6.

Las Vegas, NV: On November 2, before thousands of fans in attendance at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV are treated to the most-anticipated fight of the year, the live audience will witness the professional debut of Evan “Yung Holy” Holyfield. The 21-year-old son of Hall-of-Famer and five-time world heavyweight champion, Evander “Real Deal” Holyfield, will face Nick Winstead of Abita Springs, Louisiana in a 4-round junior middleweight matchup on the undercard of Canelo Alvarez vs. Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev.

Evan is the middle child of the 11 Holyfield children and older brother of Carolina Panthers running back Elijah Holyfield. As an amateur, Holyfield amassed over 80 fights including the Semi-Finals for the US Team. Standing 6’1.5″, Evan is extremely athletic, a boxer-puncher with lightning fast speed and hard-hitting power.

When asked about debuting on the biggest fight card of the year, Evan said, “There is no added pressure. I have fought on the top level before as an amateur. All this really isn’t too much of a big deal. I am just here to do my job.”

He continued, “I know I am ready. My trainers have been switching things up a bit and making things more difficult to ensure I am ready. I would like to tell everyone who has helped me get here that I appreciate all the support and I love y’all.”

Evan “Yung Holy” Holyfield
Photo Credit: Hosanna Rull

Kathy Duva, CEO of Main Events, said, “Heading into our 42nd year in business, it’s just wonderful to be able to debut Evan Holyfield on the biggest fight card of the year. His father, Evander, made his pro debut with Main Events on November 15, 1984 – almost exactly 35 years ago. I’m thrilled to have two generations from this family of incredible athletes under the Main Events’ banner.”

Evan has assembled a top-notch team fighting out of the Fighter Nation Boxing Gym in Houston, Texas. His trainer/manager is Maurice “Termite” Watkins (61-5-2, 42 KOs) and his strength and conditioning coach is Tim Hallmark, who has over 40 years of experience and is best-known for working with Evander Holyfield throughout his professional career.

“I know people called Evander ‘Real Deal’ but Evan is the real deal,” said Watkins. “There is pressure on him for this big card and because he has the Holyfield name, but that is part of the game. To be a great world champion you must be able to handle the pressure. You got to handle whatever circumstances are thrown at you.”

He explained, “Evan’s conditioning is incredible, but he is also amazingly talented with speed and power in both hands. We are training him to be skillful. We are going to look for him to hit and move.”

“We are prepared for a fight,” added Watkins. “We are ready to show our stuff and we are excited about being part of the Main Events team with Kathy Duva.”

Holyfield’s strength and conditioning coach, Tim Hallmark, said “We are constantly challenging Evan in different ways, and he is always up to those challenges. We are challenging him physically and mentally to keep him out of a rut. We are just trying to stay on the cutting edge and constantly looking at a better way to reach our end result.”
He continued, “We are excited about this opportunity. Evan has come a long way and he is a hard worker. He is mentally strong and very intelligent. He is a pleasure to work with. We will be ready for November 2nd.”

According to Main Events’ Matchmaker, Jolene Mizzone, “I am excited and honored to work with Evan and his entire team to get him to that championship level one day. I am going to fly the plane (make the fights) but he is the one who going to have to land it (win the fights). I have complete faith in him, his abilities and his team, Termite and Tim.”

Click Here for Evan Holyfield Video

Canelo vs. Kovalev is a 12-round fight for the WBO Light Heavyweight World Title presented by Golden Boy, Main Events and Krusher Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and Brand-New Grapefruit Crush, Knockout Flavor. The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 2 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

Tickets for Canelo vs. Kovalev are on sale and are priced at $1,754, $1,254, $854, $654, $404 and $204, not including applicable service charges and taxes. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.axs.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.MainEvents.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, @Main_Events, @KrusherKovalev and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing,
www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarez, www.facebook.com/thekrusher/, www.facebook.com/MainEventsBoxing and www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @Canelo, @Main_Events, @SergeyKrusherKovalev, and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #CaneloKovalev.

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/CaneloKovalev to a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy or Main Events where applicable for any photo and/or video usage.

Houston, TX: Yesterday at the Fighter Nation Gym in Houston, Texas junior middleweight prospect Evan Holyfield, middle son of Hall of Famer Evander Holyfield, officially announced he has teamed up with Main Events to launch his professional career. Below are quotes from this event:

Evan Holyfield:

“I signed with Main Events! First off, I would just like to thank God for allowing me to get to this position. There were times in my life when things didn’t make sense and I always prayed for perseverance. I want to thank Kathy Duva for taking a chance on me. I want to thank my whole team and I want to thank my mom. We have been through a lot and it took a lot to get here. I probably wouldn’t be here without her.”

Termite Watkins
Photo Credit: Hosanna Rull/Main Events

Maurice “Termite” Watkins – Holyfield’s Manager/Trainer:

“About 30 something years ago I got to meet this man named Lou Duva. We got to become friends and he had this fighter. His name was Evander Holyfield. I want to give a big shout out to Evander because I would not be here without him. Toi Irvin, Evan’s mother, thank you for trusting me with your son. We’ve made this decision and we have come a long way in a short time. We have a little way to go until we get where we want to be – and that is that championship of the world!

“When I met Lou Duva, he had Evander Holyfield, Pernell Whitaker, Meldrick Taylor, Mark Breland and he did some great things in the boxing world. But, really, I have to give the credit to Dan Duva. Dan was actually the brains behind things. They have both gone to be with the Lord so it is my pleasure to introduce the woman who is Main Events now, Kathy Duva.”

Evan Holyfield and Kathy Duva
Photo Credit: Hosanna Rull/Main Events

Kathy Duva – CEO of Main Events:

“Thank you, Termite. Almost 35 years my late husband’s company made advances as a young up-start boxing promoter. He made it clear that we had arrived in a very big way when Dan announced that we had signed six boxers from the greatest Olympic boxing team of all time. Most of those fighters went on to achieve greatness as world champions. In the professional ranks, two of those fighters had such spectacular careers that they are now accepted universally among the all-time greatest practitioners of the sweet science. Tragically, we lost one of them last week, Pernell Whitaker. The other, of course, was Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield.

“His iconic fights with Dwight Muhammad Qawi, Buster Douglas, George Foreman Riddick Bowe, and, of course, Mike Tyson placed him among the all-time heavyweight greats. His historic career is now the stuff of legends. Back then Main Events was blessed to have the opportunity to launch Evander’s career and guide his assent. As he became the undisputed cruiserweight champion in just his 12th fight and then, as if to defy the many pundits that that pronounced him as too small, Evander patiently explained that it isn’t the size of the man but the size of his heart that matters. He landed a right hand to knockout Buster Douglas and become the undisputed heavyweight world champion.

“Back in 1984, my job at Main Events was publicist. So, obviously I could go on with great pride to speak about Evander’s many accomplishments but that is not why you asked me all to be here today. We have something very different in mind, as Termite and Evan have already told you. I used to laugh because when Dan would joke with Evander whenever he congratulated him on the birth of another son, that Dan was going to ask for dibs on signing him someday. I never imagined in my wildest dreams it would actually happen. But I am delighted and amazed to tell you that it did.

“People have asked me what made me decide to sign Evan. I have to say that when I met him just a few weeks ago that three things jumped out at me. We very rarely sign pro debut fighters at Main Events, and I have never signed a big-time fighter’s son. But he truly is a super athlete. He already has what we call ring intelligence. He is a student of the game and he is analytical in his approach to his chosen profession. Finally, he has a passion to succeed. That became crystal clear to me as I read the book this talented young man wrote when he was still a teenager. That’s right. He wrote a book! Talk about a work ethic! When I was teenager all I could do was get my term papers turned in on time.

Toi Irvin and Evan Holyfield
Photo Credit: Hosanna Rull/Main Events

“I met his mom, Toi Irvin, for the first time yesterday. All I could say is Toi you have raised an impressive young man. I am thrilled at the prospect of promoting his career. Particularly, because I am able to announce it here in this very ring that once graced Kenny Weldon’s gym. This ring hosted some of the greatest fighters of all time. Muhammad Ali fought in this ring and Evan’s dad trained in this ring. I think you can almost taste the history of the ring right now.

“It is with great pride and anticipation that I am here to tell you how thrilled we are at Main Events, my whole staff, that we are going to play a role in this young man’s career. I am one of the only people in this room who is old enough to remember watching Termite Watkins when he was in the amateurs. I became very familiar with his colorful background when he coached the Iraqi amateur boxing team. Then he called me out of the blue one day and asked me if Main Events would be interested in signing one of his young recruits. I wasn’t able to help him then but I am glad I am glad I was able to say yes when he called this time. I look forward to getting to know Termite and the rest of his team much better in the coming months and years. From what I can see, I can tell this is going to be a really fun ride!”

Holyfield and Watkins
Photo Credit: Hosanna Rull/Main Events

Termite:

“I am just honored and thrilled that this guy from North Shore is over here doing business with Kathy Duva. When I wanted to put this team together, I wanted to make sure it was complete. Really and truly though I can’t take the credit. It was a God thing. It was God that brought this team together. When we were just coming together, I called a guy named Tim Hallmark. I was so honored that he would even take my call. I knew him because he was the one that took Evander Holyfield and made him big and strong. We here at Fighter Nation we want to have the best equipment. My friendship with Tim just grew and flourished. In my opinion, Tim Hallmark, is one of the greatest strength and conditioning coaches in history.

Tim Hallmark
Photo Credit: Hosanna Rull/Main Events

Tim Hallmark – Evan’s Sports Performance Coach:

“First off, I am just so blessed to be here. The Word of God says, ‘This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad.’ And that is just the truth. I have been a sports performance coach for 40 years. I have worked with just about every sport out there. Some of the greatest people I have been blessed to meet are in boxing. Hands down.

“I don’t know how many of y’all actually knew Kenny Weldon. If Kenny didn’t like you, you knew it. If Kenny liked you, you knew it. For whatever reason he liked me. I came for Kenny’s funeral and Termite and I reconnected. I came over here to Fighter Nation to see what was going on and if you have ever seen it, it’s like going to church in a gym and a dance hall all at the same time. It is crazy awesome. While I was there someone came in the door and they needed some help. Termite stopped the workout. Everybody came over and everybody prayed for that person. Every time I have been back here that’s what I see. That is what goes on here five and six nights a week. This ground is part of God’s plan. Just to say I am a little part of Fighter Nation makes me very proud.

“Evander and I had been talking about Evan turning pro. I said to him and I said to Toi that you need to go and see Termite at Fighter Nation. Evan came down to see if it was a good fit. He took Evan into his home and showed him the way we do things. I have been very blessed because between Toi and Evander I get the inside scoop about this young man. Toi would call me and tell me things about Evan that only a mama would know. These things would give me an advantage. I have been working with Evan for about 14 months.

“I have worked with a lot of athletes in a lot of sports and this guy is really unique. He has a variety of assets that are crazy. Evan could have been successful in whatever he wanted to do. This is what he chose to do. He is super smart because he is a great listener. He doesn’t say a lot but then he will say something to let you know he was tuned in. I have the greatest expectations about what this man is going to do and I am thankful to be part of it.”

Holyfield
Photo Credit: Hosanna Rull/Main Events

Termite:

“Evander asked me if I would consider training his son and I said, ‘Can he fight?’ He said, ‘I think he can.’ I said, ‘Of course I will!” Evander sent him down here to stay with me for a week or so and asked me to tell him if I thought he could fight. We fell in love with him. This kid can fight. As a trainer you want a guy that’s got heart. He’s got heart. That’s something that you have got to be born with. Then you look for talent. This guy has speed. He’s got power. He has a lot of pressure with the Holyfield name. I told him he only needs to worry about what he can do.

Holyfield:

“I appreciate everyone coming together to support me. I want to thank my team. I want to thank y’all for supporting me. You each poured something into me. The glass used to be half full but now we are overflowing. We are going to take it one day at a time and reach our goal of becoming a champion.”

Duva:

“Tim [Hallmark] has been in my boxing life for 35 years and he is one of the kindest most-generous, thoughtful men I have ever known. This is part of what makes this so special is that I am going to get to work with him again. I want to take the time to thank everyone for coming out and joining us today. I want to thank everyone from the Fighter Nation Boxing Gym here for your hospitality. I want to thank Evan for putting his faith in us. We will not let you down. I want to thank Toi for trusting us with her son. We will not let you down. I want to thank Termite Watkins for his indominable spirit and for welcoming Main Events so fully into his family. I want to thank my staff. I want to thank God too because everyone else did. I don’t want to leave Him out.

“We are just beginning now to plan Evan’s fights. Obviously, in the beginning when he is fighting often he can’t fight in Houston all the time but we ultimately intend to bring him here. We are very familiar with the market and we love coming here. Watch for the announcement coming soon that will provide you with the details of his upcoming pro debut.”

Houston, TX: Today in front of a packed crowd of family, friends and fans, at the Fighter Nation Boxing Gym in Houston, Texas, hot boxing prospect Evan Holyfield announced his new promotional deal with Main Events. After talks with several promoters the 21-year old son of Hall-of-Famer Evander Holyfield decided to sign with the company that launched his father’s historic career.

The middle child of the Holyfield children, Evan, amassed over 80 amateur fights including the Semi-Finals for the US Team. The 6’1.5″ junior middleweight is a boxer-puncher with lightning fast speed and hard-hitting power. In addition, to his boxing prowess Evan is also a published author. His first book, 12 Rounds to Winning for the Youth is available now on his website: evanholyfield.com.

Photo Credit: Hosanna Rull/Main Events

“This is really a dream come true,” said Evan. “I have been doing this for more than 10 years and it’s not really a job if you really enjoy it. Life is always better when you have a dream you can strive for and work towards every day. I am eager to get started and excited to begin this next chapter.”

Evan Holyfield has teamed up with Maurice “Termite” Watkins as his trainer/manager. After a 61-5-2, 42 KOs professional boxing career Termite headed to Iraq to work as an exterminator for the military camps. While serving in Baghdad he formed an Iraqi Olympic boxing team. Watkins now runs Fighter Nation Boxing Gym in Houston and works with more than 200 young fighters.

Photo Credit: Hosanna Rull/Main Events

“Evan is very coachable and hungry to create his own name,” explained Watkins. “We have assembled a great team to help him achieve that goal. 1. We have Main Events. They are the ones who took Evander to the top. 2. He’s got me. I’ve had over 65 pro fights. 3. He’s in one of the best training climates in the world. That’s why athletes come here, because it is hot, humid and they can lose weight. 4. We’ve got Tim Hallmark. In my opinion, he is the best of the best of the strength and conditioning coaches and he is the one that took worked with Evander throughout his career. He is heading up our strength and conditioning team.” He continued, “Evan is the whole package: he can box, he can punch, he is very elusive in the ring and he has incredible timing. This makes for a winning combination and we plan on going all the way. We are ready to fight!”

Holyfield and Watkins
Photo Credit: Hosanna Rull/Main Events

Holyfield’s team also includes Tim Hallmark the strength and conditioning coach with over 35 years of experience who is best-known for working with Evander Holyfield throughout his professional career. In addition to extensive roster of high-profile clients Tim has also designed the SymmetriCore® and CenterForce® training equipment that have been used by some of the world’s top professional and Olympic athletes.

“This is my 40th year as a sports performance trainer,” said Hallmark. “My philosophy has always been to first get an athlete healthy, then get him fit and then make him more athletic. Evan and I have been together for about 14 months. He has a fitter physique but, most-importantly, his recovery time has improved tremendously.” Hallmark added, “It is all about making him strong mentally. If he is healthier then he going to be able to deal with stress better. Then, it is all about attitude. If he feels better, he will have a good attitude and with the right attitude he can push himself further than he ever thought possible. That is what makes a winner!”

Photo Credit: Hosanna Rull/Main Events

For over 40 years Main Events has built some of boxing’s biggest stars. In addition to Evander Holyfield, Main Events has promoted: Pernell Whitaker, Lennox Lewis, Arturo Gatti, Meldrick Taylor and many more. The company was founded in 1978 by the late Dan Duva and his widow, Kathy Duva, has carried on his legacy since his passing in 1996. The company’s current roster includes a diverse mix of seasoned veterans and hot prospects including, most-notably, Three-Time and current WBO Light Heavyweight Champion Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev.

“From the moment Termite and Tim introduced me to Evan, I was struck with his maturity, his athleticism and his passion to succeed,” remarked Kathy Duva, CEO of Main Events. “I am thrilled and honored that he and his team have entrusted Main Events with his career. It is our goal make the system work for him as he climbs to the top of the rankings on his way to the world title.”