ARNOLD BARBOZA JR. AND KENNETH SIMS JR. SET FOR HIGH-STAKES CLASH IN CAN’T-MISS MAIN EVENT ON DAZN

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Feb. 17, 2026) — Southern California pride meets Chicago grit as two elite contenders step into a new division and straight into danger when former interim champion Arnold Barboza Jr. (32-1, 11 KOs) of South El Monte faces Chicago’s Kenneth “Bossman” Sims Jr. (22-2-1, 8 KOs) in a 12-round welterweight clash exclusively live worldwide on DAZN. With redemption at stake and 147 pounds wide open, both fighters aim to make an immediate impact and announce themselves as new threats in the division. The main event takes place Saturday, March 14, from the Honda Center in Anaheim and is presented in association with Cancun Boxing.

Tickets for Barboza Jr. vs. Sims Jr. go on sale Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 10:00 a.m. PT and are priced at $100, $75, $50 and $25, plus applicable fees. A limited number of Golden Boy VIP Experience packages will also be available, featuring exclusive merchandise and premium fight-night upgrades. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoy.com.

“I’m officially stepping back into the ring after some much needed time off,” said Arnold Barboza Jr. “My first loss didn’t break me, it built me. Built a new team, new gym, new mindset yet still same purpose, same hunger, same goals. I heard the doubters get louder. I saw some opinions change yet nothing about me changed. This is bigger than revenge. This is the Redemption Tour.”

“This is a fight that I’ve been wanting for a long time. Barboza is a good fighter who’s been on the big stage, but I’ve always known that I am a better fighter than him and only wanted the chance to prove it,” said Kenneth Sims Jr. “I’ve been chasing this opportunity for years now and this is a great time for it to finally happen. This is a do or die fight for both of us, and I can’t wait to get in there and handle business on March 14.”

“I love this fight because neither guy is afraid of the other. Arnold Barboza Jr. and Kenneth Sims Jr. have worked their entire careers to become the best and on March 14 somebody takes a major step toward the top of the division,” said Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya. “The undercard will be stacked with talent, with the return of Puerto Rican Unified Champ Oscar Collazo and Undisputed Champ Gabriela Fundora both defending their titles. Fans are getting a complete night of high-level Southern California fights!”

In a 12-round co-main event co-promoted with Miguel Cotto Promotions, Puerto Rico’s WBA, WBO and Ring Magazine minimumweight world champion Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo (13-0, 10 KOs) will defend his titles against Mexico’s Jesus “Chiquito” Haro (13-3, 2 KOs). Collazo most recently delivered a devastating knockout victory over Jayson Vayson in September 2025 and now returns looking to continue his dominant championship run.

“I’m very happy to be returning to the ring this coming March 14th. Unfortunately, we won’t be pursuing a unification bout for reasons beyond my control,” said Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo. “The company presented us with this opportunity with Jesús Haro. I respect him because I know he comes with the desire and hunger to be champion, but on March 14th he’ll be facing the best in the division. Without a doubt, Puerto Rico vs. Mexico is a guaranteed war. We’re ready to put on a great fight and secure a solid victory for Puerto Rico.”

“It’s going to be a great fight,” said Jesus Haro. “The Mexico-Puerto Rico rivalry has always been present in this sport, and although I was born in the USA and I love this country, Aztec warrior blood runs through my veins, and I’m not going to let my Mexican people down.”

In another stacked title bout in co-promotion with Sampson Boxing, Undisputed Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (17-0, 9 KOs) returns to defend her throne against WBA Interim World Champion Viviana Ruiz Corredor (10-2, 5 KOs), the Australia-based Venezuelan challenger looking to dethrone boxing’s reigning queen in a 10-round fight.

“There are only two ways of doing something, the right way or the wrong way.” said Gabriela Fundora. “We are preparing to put on a great performance on March 14th at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. Save the date to watch on DAZN!”

“This opportunity to compete for the undisputed world title is an absolute dream come true for me. It represents everything we work toward from the moment we decide to become professional fighters, and I am incredibly grateful for the chance to perform on the biggest stage,” said Viviana Ruiz. “We’re coming to America to steal the show. I understand the challenge in front of me, I’ve done the work, and I’m ready. I’m excited for March 14th, and I can’t wait to be crowned the new undisputed world champion.”

More information on the undercard will be released soon.

Arnold Barboza Jr. is back! After more than nine months away from the ring, the South El Monte native returns on March 14 at the Honda Center, where he faces Chicago’s Kenneth Sims Jr. in his highly anticipated welterweight debut. Stepping up to 147 pounds against a proven contender, Barboza Jr. begins a new chapter with the same focus and intensity that has defined his career. His last outing came on May 2 in New York City, when he met former WBO and Ring Magazine Super Lightweight Champion Teofimo Lopez in a long-awaited showdown under the bright lights of Times Square. In a high-stakes battle years in the making, Barboza Jr. showcased his composure, grit and elite skillset that night. Although he experienced the first loss of his professional career, he reaffirmed his place among boxing’s top contenders and strengthened his resolve to return better than ever. Before that, Barboza Jr. captured the WBO Interim Super Lightweight World Title with a hard-fought split decision victory over Jack Catterall in Manchester, proving he could travel into hostile territory, beat the odds and emerge victorious against world-class opposition. Since turning professional in 2013, Barboza Jr. has compiled an impressive resume, including notable wins over Alex Saucedo, Mike Alvarado, Jose Pedraza and Jose Ramirez. Known for his technical approach, sharp ring IQ and versatile style, he has established himself as one of the sport’s most disciplined and consistent competitors — and now looks to make his mark in the welterweight division.

Kenneth Sims Jr. returns to Southern California for a highly anticipated showdown against Arnold Barboza Jr., as the two square off at the Honda Center in a California vs. Chicago clash on March 14. Sims Jr. enters the bout fresh off the biggest moment of his career, headlining a WBA title eliminator against Mexico’s Oscar Duarte at Credit Union 1 Arena in Chicago. Fighting in front of a passionate hometown crowd, “Bossman” displayed his slick, technical style against Duarte’s relentless pressure in a compelling 12-round battle. Though the contest ended in a majority decision loss, Sims Jr. left with his stock elevated — showcasing composure and championship potential on a major stage. The performance was the latest chapter in his steady rise through the professional ranks. Since turning pro in 2014, Sims Jr. has built an impressive resume, highlighted by a breakout upset victory over previously undefeated Elvis Rodriguez in 2021. He followed that statement win with six consecutive victories, earning top 15 rankings with the IBF, WBA and WBC. Before his professional success, Sims Jr. was a decorated amateur — a nine-time national champion and proud member of Team USA. He competed in the 2012 Olympic Trials, narrowly falling to future world champion Jose Ramirez, and later represented the United States at the 2013 World Championships. Now a world-ranked contender, Sims Jr. remains focused on proving he belongs among the elite in the sport.

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Barboza Jr. vs. Sims Jr. is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Cancun Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

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




Oscar Collazo Stops Jayson Vayson in 7

In one of the strangest finishes in recent memory, Oscar Collazo retained the WBA/WBO/Ring Minimumweight Title with a seventh round stoppage of Jayson Vayson at the Fantasy Springs Resort in Indio, California.

In round one, Collazo dropped Vayson with check right hook.

It was a close fight as Vayson was able to hang in and mount some offense. In round seven, Collazo landed several shots on the topes. Vayson did not seem hurt and was firing back when the corner of Vayson jumped on the apron and stopped the bout at 1:41.

Collazo, 104.6 lbs of Villalba, PR is now 13-0 with 10 knockouts. Vayson, 104.4 lbs of Veruela, PHL is 14-2-1.

“I had a good stoppage win, I was putting on the pressure,” said unified champion Oscar Collazo. “The seventh round was when we were just going to throw and throw, and we got the stoppage. He did surprise me; he caught me with a good body shot that I was able to recover from. I loved it though; he was a good fighter. Shoutout to Golden Boy, Miguel Cotto Promotions and DAZN. I believe that in 2026 I will be the next undisputed champion for Puerto Rico.”

Fundora Stops Kubicki in 7; Retains Undisputed Flyweight Title

Gabriela Fundora retained the undisputed flyweight title with a seventh round stoppage over Alexas Kubicki.

Fundora dominated the fight as she landed punches at well as Kubicki tried to get inside.

In round six, Kubiicki began to bleed from the nose. In round seven, Fundora continued to land at pinpoint accuracy and then landed a perfect straight let that caused a referee stoppage at 43 seconds.

Fundora, 110.2 lbs of Coachella, CA is 17-0 with nine knockouts. Kubicki, 110.6 lbs of Edmonton, CAN is 13-2.

“It feels great to be back in Coachella and to return with a knockout win,” said undisputed champion Gabriela Fundora. “I knew she would come at me 1,000 percent, but we came in at a million. I adjusted to her style, trusted my corner, and once they told me I had her hurt, I pressed. Honestly, I felt I hurt her from the very first punch. Now I’ll talk to my team — Oscar De La Hoya, Eric and Sampson — to see what’s next. I’m even considering moving down a division, but we’ll see.”

Ruslan Abdullaev Decisions Johnson

Ruslan Abdullaev win an eight-round unanimous decision over Kevin Johnson in a welterweight bout.

Abdullaev, 141.6 lbs of Qipchok, UZB won by scores of 8072 and 79-73 twice and is now 3-0. Johnson, 140 lbs of Las Vegas is 12-8.

Iriarte Stops Hernandez in 3

Joel Iriarte stopped Eduardo Hernandez in round three of a six-round welterweight fight.

In round one, Iriarte dropped Hernandez with a left to the body. In round three, Iriarte landed a big left hook sent Hernandez to the cnvas and the fight was stopped at 2:06.

Iriarte, 146.4 lbs of Bakersfield, CA is 9-0 with eight knockouts. Hernandez, 147 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 8-5.

Flores Decisions Pennington

Grant Flores remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Courtney Pennington in a middleweight fight.

In round seven, Flores landed two body shots that was followed by a big right to the head that put Pennington on the canvas.

Flores, 156 lbs of Coachella, CA won by score 80-71 twice and 79-72 and is now 12-0. Pennington, 154.9 lbs of Brooklyn is 17-10-3.




QUOTES PRESS CONFERENCE – COLLAZO VS. VAYSON / FUNDORA VS. KUBICKI

INDIO, CALIF. (Sept. 18, 2025) — Golden Boy promotions hosted a press conference today at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino ahead of a highly anticipated doubleheader scheduled for this Saturday, Sept. 20 live worldwide on DAZN. In the main event, presented in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions, Villalba, Puerto Rico’s unified WBA, WBO, and Ring Magazine Minimumweight World Champion Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo (12-0, 9 KOs) will once again make history when he defends his titles against Jayson “Striker” Vayson (14-1-1, 8 KOs) of Veruela, Agusan del Sur, Philippines in a 12-round match. In the co-main event, representing the Coachella Valley, boxing’s youngest undisputed world champion, Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (16-0, 8 KOs), will make a second defense of her WBA, WBC, WBO, IBF and Ring Magazine world titles against a new challenger, Alexas Daria “Iron Lady” Kubicki (13-1, 2 KOs) of Edmonton, Canada. The 10-round match is presented in association with Sampson Boxing.

Tickets for Collazo vs. Vayson are on sale and are priced at $95, $75, $55, and $45. Tickets can be purchased at FantasySpringsResort.com or GoldenBoy.com

The DAZN-televised card will feature 2024 Olympian and decorated amateur Ruslan Abdullaev (2-0, 1 KO), representing Uzbekistan, in an eight-round super lightweight clash against new opponent Kevin Johnson (12-7, 8 KOs) of Las Vegas. Bakersfield’s Joel Iriarte (8-0, 7 KOs) will face Tijuana, Mexico’s Eduardo Hernandez (8-4, 5 KOs) in a six-round welterweight matchup. Opening the broadcast, Coachella’s own Grant Flores (11-0, 9 KOs) will shine in an eight-round super welterweight bout against Brooklyn’s Courtney Pennington (17-9-3, 7 KOs).

On the preliminary card, former Mexican Olympian Gael “El Terror” Cabrera (9-0, 6 KOs) of Sonora will meet General Santos City, Philippines’ Judy “Stingray” Flores (14-4, 8 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight showdown. Representing Jalisco, Mexico, Javid Ramirez (14-0, 7 KOs) will battle Villaguay, Argentina’s Brian Arregui (11-6, 7 KOs) in a six-round middleweight contest. Opening the night, Uruguay’s Adriana Pineiro (8-0, 1 KO) will step into an eight-round flyweight fight against Los Angeles’ Gloria Munguilla (8-1).

Here is what the doubleheader fighters had to say:

Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo,

“I want to thank everyone at Golden Boy, Miguel Cotto Promotions, DAZN and everyone who helped make it happen to come back to the Coachella Valley where I first got my belts. Vayson has fought a lot of good opposition and comes with a lot of hunger, and I know will come to fight.”

Jayson “Striker” Vayson, Minimumweight World Title Contender:

“It’s the first time I am fighting in the United States, and I can’t wait to show the world what I am made of and that I am a true warrior of the Philippines. We are prepared to show our best in the ring. I will not waste this opportunity and the chance to become a World Champion.”

Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora, Undisputed World Champion:

“Talk is cheap. Let’s see what she can bring on Saturday.”

“My nickname is Sweet Poison for a reason. I’m sweet outside the ring and when Saturday comes, there will be poison inside of the ring.”

“Coca-Cola doesn’t give away it’s secrets, and I won’t be giving away mine.”

“The Fundora name is associated with knockouts, and that’s what fans should expect on Saturday.”

Alexas “Iron Lady” Kubicki, Top Flyweight World Title Contender:

“It’s not a question of IF I win, it’s WHEN I win on Saturday night. When I win on Saturday night, I WILL break her record to become the youngest undisputed world champion. I have been putting in the work, and I will be taking back those belts back to Edmonton.”

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Collazo vs. Vayson is a 12-round WBO, WBA and Ring Magazine Minimumweight World Championship fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions. Fundora vs. Kubicki is a 10-round fight for the WBA, WBC, WBO, IBF and Ring Magazine Undisputed World Championship presented in association with Sampson Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

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




GABRIELA “SWEET POISON” FUNDORA TO DEFEND UNDISPUTED CROWN AGAINST HIGHLY RANKED NEW FOE ALEXAS “IRON LADY” KUBICKI

INDIO, CALIF. (Sept. 11, 2025) — A smashing doubleheader will take place on Sept. 20 live from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino and streamed worldwide on DAZN that will feature the sport’s most electric, history-making fighters. Representing the Coachella Valley, boxing’s youngest undisputed world champion, Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (16-0, 8 KOs), will make a second defense of her WBA, WBC, WBO, IBF and Ring Magazine world titles against a new challenger, Alexas Daria “Iron Lady” Kubicki (13-1, 2 KOs). Kubicki, a Canadian fighter from Edmonton, Alberta, is currently ranked No. 8 in the WBA female flyweight world rankings. In her most recent bout on May 23, 2025, she captured the WBC International Flyweight Title by defeating previously undefeated Alondra Yamile Hernández Mendoza via unanimous decision. The 10-round match is presented in association with Sampson Boxing.

In the main event, presented in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions, Villalba, Puerto Rico’s unified WBA, WBO, and Ring Magazine minimumweight world champion Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo (12-0, 9 KOs) will once again make history when he defends his titles against Jayson “Striker” Vayson (14-1-1, 8 KOs) of Veruela, Agusan del Sur, Philippines in a 12-round match.

Tickets for Collazo vs. Vayson are on sale and are priced at $95, $75, $55, and $45. Tickets can be purchased at FantasySpringsResort.com or GoldenBoy.com

The DAZN-televised card will also feature 2024 Olympian and decorated amateur Ruslan Abdullaev (2-0, 1 KO), representing Uzbekistan, in an eight-round super lightweight clash against Los Teques, Venezuela’s Grimardi Machuca (17-2, 14 KOs). Bakersfield’s Joel Iriarte (8-0, 7 KOs) will face Tijuana, Mexico’s Eduardo Hernandez (8-4, 5 KOs) in a six-round welterweight matchup. Opening the broadcast, Coachella’s own Grant Flores (11-0, 9 KOs) will shine in an eight-round super welterweight bout against Brooklyn’s Courtney Pennington (17-9-3, 7 KOs).

On the preliminary card, former Mexican Olympian Gael “El Terror” Cabrera (9-0, 6 KOs) of Sonora will meet General Santos City, Philippines’ Judy “Stingray” Flores (14-4, 8 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight showdown. Representing Jalisco, Mexico, Javid Ramirez (14-0, 7 KOs) will battle Villaguay, Argentina’s Brian Arregui (11-6, 7 KOs) in a six-round middleweight contest. Opening the night, Uruguay’s Adriana Pineiro (8-0, 1 KO) will step into an eight-round flyweight fight against Los Angeles’ Gloria Munguilla (8-1).

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Collazo vs. Vayson is a 12-round WBO, WBA and Ring Magazine Minimumweight World Championship fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions. Fundora vs. Kubicki is a 10-round fight for the WBA, WBC, WBO, IBF and Ring Magazine Undisputed World Championship presented in association with Sampson Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

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




A UNIFIED WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP AND UNDISPUTED WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP DOUBLEHEADER: COLLAZO VS. VAYSON / FUNDORA VS. GRANADINO

INDIO, CALIF. (August 11, 2025) — Golden Boy announced today a spectacular Unified Championship and Undisputed Championship doubleheader that will feature the sport’s youngest, history-making stars scheduled for Saturday, September 20, live from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino and live on DAZN. In the main event presented in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions, Villalba, Puerto Rico’s unified WBA, WBO, and Ring magazine Minimumweight World Champion Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo (12-0, 9 KOs) will make history once again when he defends his titles against Jayson “Striker” Vayson (14-1-1, 8 KOs) of Veruela, Agusan del Sur, Philippines.

Tickets for Collazo vs. Vayson will go on-sale Tuesday August 12 at 10:00 a.m. PT, and are priced at $95, $75, $55 and $45. Tickets can be purchased at FantasySpringsResort.com or GoldenBoy.com.

“I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions and Miguel Cotto Promotions for giving me this opportunity to shine and defend my unified titles on September 20 in Indio, California, against a tough Filipino fighter, Jayson Vayson,” said Oscar Collazo. “All of my fans—Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, Americans, everyone in Southern California—need to show up at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. It will be the perfect opportunity to dazzle and represent Puerto Rico on such a big platform. We will enter the ring very prepared, with a lot of boxing IQ. We know Vayson is a great fighter and that he will be hungry to dethrone me, but he won’t be able to, because I have worked hard to defend what is mine and represent my island with pride.”

“I want to thank everyone who was able to make this happen,” said Jayson Vayson. “I am a fighter of few words, but I am ready to show the world that I am the best and am deserving of this opportunity. I will shock the world and represent the Philippines with pride!”

In the co-main event presented in association with Sampson Boxing, representing the Coachella Valley, boxing’s youngest undisputed world champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (16-0, 8 KOs) will look to make a third historic defense of her WBA, WBC, WBO, IBF and Ring Magazine World Titles against Ayelén “Piru” Granadino (12-2-4, 1 KO) of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Granadino is no stranger in entering enemy territory and securing a victory, and will try to prove herself against the monstrous Sweet Poison.

“I’m staying 100% focused on defending my belts,” said Gabriela Fundora. “Our immediate teamwork’s intelligent planning and dedicated commitment is the result of our reality.”

“Nothing is free, I have worked very hard to get here,” said Ayelén Granadino. “After I beat Micaela Milagros Lujan in a final elimination for the WBA title, I knew my time had come and I am preparing accordingly. Gabriela Fundora is a great fighter, and I respect her until we get in the ring. I can’t wait to bring the four championship belts back to Argentina with me.”

“We’re back in the Coachella Valley, and this time, Golden Boy is bringing the heat with a barnburner of a card,” said Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya. “This action-packed doubleheader features two history-making Golden Boy fighters, Oscar Collazo and Gabriela Fundora, defending their unified and undisputed world titles against mandatory challengers. The undercard will be stacked with the next generation of Golden Boy stars. You won’t want to miss it.”

Additional details on the preliminary card will be announced in the coming weeks.

Oscar Collazo is making serious noise for the lower weight divisions in boxing. Nicknamed “El Pupilo,” the 28-year-old added to Puerto Rico’s rich boxing history by becoming the fastest fighter from the island to win a world title with only seven professional fights. He secured the victory with a seventh-round knockout over former WBO world minimum champion, Melvin Jerusalem, at Fantasy Springs Casino in May 2023. Since then, he’s had five successful and dominant title defenses. Now, Collazo is set to defend his WBO, WBA and Ring belts once again – this time in a main event showdown against Venezuela’s veteran Ronald Chacón on Sept. 20, 2025. With world titles on the line and national pride at stake, the bout promises fireworks as Collazo looks to continue his reign and Chacón enters the ring for his first world title shot. Through a series of thrilling performances, “El Pupilo” is firmly carving out a path to greatness with the potential to be remembered as one of the greatest fighters of his era, and a legendary figure in Puerto Rican boxing.

Filipino contender Jayson “Striker” Vayson is set to make the biggest ring walk of his career on September 20, when he faces reigning WBO, WBA, and Ring Magazine world champion Oscar Collazo at Fantasy Springs Casino in Indio, CA. The bout will mark Vayson’s highly anticipated U.S. debut and his first shot at world championship glory. Vayson enters the fight riding a four-fight win streak, including an explosive second-round knockout of Japan’s Ryuya Yamanaka to capture the WBO Asia Pacific Light Flyweight title. He previously claimed the WBC Asian Continental belt with a hard-fought split decision victory over India’s Nutlai Lalbiakkima. In February 2022, Vayson challenged Indonesia’s Tibo Monabesa for the WBC International title, dropping Monabesa twice and appearing to control the bout. However, the judges awarded Monabesa a controversial decision win. After reviewing the circumstances – including a panel composed entirely of local officials – the WBC ruled the fight a no-contest and ordered a rematch, which ultimately never occurred. Now holding a record of (14-1-1, 8 KO’s), the 27-year-old from the Philippines is poised to take on one of boxing’s top champions. Ranked No. 3 by the IBF, No. 6 by the WBO, No. 8 by the WBC and No. 11 by the WBA at light flyweight, Vayson will move down to minimumweight for this world title opportunity. With momentum on his side and everything to gain, Vayson enters this world title clash not just as a challenger, but as a dangerous threat ready to shake up the division.

Gabriela Fundora’s journey into boxing came naturally. Growing up in a family with a deep boxing background, she was exposed to the sport from an early age. Training at the Olympic Training Center multiple times as an amateur and securing the 2017 National Championship, her eyes were set on becoming a world champion one day. Her brother, Sebastian Fundora, is the current WBC super welterweight world champion, and her father, Freddy, has been the foundation behind their careers. With dad and older brother in her corner, Gabriela has developed a tough, disciplined mentality that reflects her upbringing. Making her professional debut in 2021, and with her combination of size, athleticism and technical skills, “Sweet Poison” has rapidly become one of the most exciting fighters in women’s boxing. In October 2023, Fundora encountered Arely Mucino, whom she defeated via knockout in the fifth round to become the new IBF flyweight titleholder.

Since becoming world champion, Fundora’s career keeps elevating to the highest levels. In November 2024, she made history by becoming boxing’s youngest four-belt undisputed champion when facing Gabriela Alaniz in dominant fashion. In her latest performance, Fundora delivered a dominant display against IBF mandatory challenger Marilyn Badillo at Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, CA. From the opening bell, she showcased her reach, power and skill, proving there’s a clear gap in levels within the sport. Fundora sealed the victory with a seventh-round knockout, successfully defending her undisputed titles and cementing her role as a leader in a new era of women’s boxing.

Ayelén Granadino has quietly worked her way into world title contention, and now she’s ready for her biggest test yet. The Argentine fighter will face Gabriela Fundora for the undisputed flyweight championship in the co-main event of Collazo vs. Chacón on Sept. 20, 2025. A seasoned competitor, Granadino enters the bout ranked No. 3 by the WBA, No. 6 by the WBO and No. 8 by the IBF – a reflection of her steady climb through the global flyweight ranks. Known for her toughness and assertive approach, she has gone toe-to-toe with some of the top names in women’s boxing and now finds herself on the verge of a career-defining opportunity. As she prepares to face the undefeated and undisputed champion Fundora, Granadino brings both hunger and high-level experience into the ring. With national pride on the line and years of hard work behind her, she’s looking to shock the world and bring the belts back to Argentina.

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Collazo vs. Vayson is a 12-round WBO, WBA and Ring Magazine Minimumweight World Championship fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions. Fundora vs. Granadino is a 10-round fight for the WBA, WBC, WBO, IBF and Ring Magazine Undisputed World Championship presented in association with Sampson Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

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




VIDEO: 2025 BWAA Awards Dinner Featuring Oleksandr Usyk, Gabriela Fundora, Robert Garcia and More




FUNDORA VS. BADILLO UNDERCARD TO BE STACKED WITH GOLDEN BOY’S FUTURE STARS

OCEANSIDE, Calif. (April 14, 2025) – Fight week has arrived for Golden Boy’s first-ever undisputed female world championship event, as the world’s youngest undisputed champion, Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (15-0, 7 KOs), of Coachella Valley, is set to defend her WBA, WBO, WBC, IBF and Ring Magazine world titles against No. 1 IBF-ranked contender Marilyn Badillo (19-0-1, 3 KOs), of Cuautitlán, Mexico. The 10-round main event, co-promoted with Sampson Boxing, marks Fundora’s first headlining appearance as she leads the charge into a new era of women’s boxing. The highly anticipated bout is scheduled for Saturday, April 19, at Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, and will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN.

In a showdown between two of the top super welterweights, undefeated No. 2-ranked Charles “Bad News” Conwell (21-0, 16 KOs), of Cleveland, will face No. 4-ranked and former world champion Jorge “Chino” Perez (32-4, 26 KOs), of Sinaloa, Mexico, in a high-stakes 12-round battle. The bout is presented in association with Zanfer Boxing. Known for their explosive power and relentless styles, both fighters are expected to deliver an action-packed war inside the ring. Also featured on the broadcast, recently re-signed cruiserweight Tristan “Sweet T” Kalkreuth (14-1, 10 KOs), of Las Vegas, will return in a 10-round contest against Felix Valera (23-7, 20 KOs), of Santo Domingo.

Tickets for Conwell vs. Perez are on sale and are priced at $100, $75 and $25, excluding applicable service charges. A limited number of Golden Boy VIP Experience tickets will also be available, which include exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or GoldenBoy.com.

Also on the DAZN broadcast, rising welterweight knockout artist Joel Iriarte (6-0, 6 KOs), of Bakersfield, will look to continue his perfect KO streak in an eight-round fight against Marcos Jimenez (25-11, 17 KOs), of Cupey Alto, Puerto Rico. Kicking off the main telecast, recent Golden Boy signee and 2024 Paris Olympian Ruslan Abdullaev (1-0, 1 KO), born in Uzbekistan and of Kazakh ethnicity, will compete in a four-round super lightweight fight against an opponent to be announced.

As part of the Golden Boy Fight Night: Fundora vs. Badillo Prelims, streamed live on Golden Boy’s YouTube channel, San Diego’s undefeated Jorge “El Niño Dorado” Chavez (13-0, 8 KOs) will take on Brandon Douglas (13-1, 11 KOs), of Salt Lake City, Utah, in an eight-round super bantamweight fight. Also on the prelims, undefeated prospect Dalis Kaleiopu (6-0, 4 KOs), of Waianae, Hawaii, will meet Mykell Gamble (7-1, 4 KOs), of Cincinnati, in a six-round super featherweight contest. In an eight-round light heavyweight bout, Oleksandr Gvozdyk (20-2, 16 KOs) will face Anthony Hollaway (9-7-3, 7 KOs), of Peoria, Illinois.

Making his professional and Golden Boy debut, Olympic medalist Joshua “Good” Edwards, of Houston, will compete in a four-round super heavyweight bout against Larry Gonzalez (0-0-1), of Clovis, Calif.

Opening the night, 17-time national champion and top amateur standout Samuel Castellanos (1-0) will warm up the ring with a four-round super lightweight fight against Marc Misiura (3-7-1, 1 KO), of Scranton, Pa.

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Fundora vs. Badillo is a 10-round fight for the Undisputed Flyweight Championship of the World presented by Golden Boy Promotions in co-promotion with Sampson Boxing. Conwell vs. Garcia Perez is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Zanfer Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

About Frontwave Arena

Frontwave Arena is the new gateway to world-class sports and entertainment in North County San Diego. Located in Oceanside, California, the 7,500-capacity arena showcases the best and brightest names in music of all genres, headline comedy, family shows, and community events. In addition to 16-time champion San Diego Sockers of the Major Arena Soccer League and the NBA G League San Diego Clippers, the venue hosts a growing roster of sports teams, tournaments, and athletic events. Frontwave Arena sets new standards for premium fan experiences with 16 luxury suites, VIP viewing decks, exclusive lounges, and an open-air patio. The venue’s expansive outdoor plaza host performances, activities, and more. www.frontwavearena.com.

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




Schofield Decisions Giron

WBA number-two ranked lightweight Floyd Schofield survived a late knockdown to win a 12-round split decision over Rene Tellez Giron at the Virgin Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

In round 11, Giron sent Schofield to the canvas when he landed a left hook on the inside.

Schofield landed 259 of 771 punches. Giron was 72 of 292.

Schofield, 134.4 lbs of Austin, TX won by scores of 118-109 twice and 116-111 and is now 18-0. Giron, 134.4 lbs of Mexico is 20-4.

“I feel good. It was my first time going 12 rounds, especially with a fighter that wasn’t going to back down,” said Floyd Schofield. “It was a shot to the back of the head. I kind of turned my head, so he took the shot. I just had to get up, I’m not going to quit. (Talking about the knock down) I give myself a B+ only because I went 12 rounds with a fighter that had a lot of power. He’s a good, rough, tugged fighter that wouldn’t back down.

Melikuziev Defeats Stevens by Split Decision

Bektemir Melikuziev won a 12-round split decision over David Stevens in a super middleweight fight.

In round nine, Melikuziev began to bleed from his nose.

Melikuziev landed 165 of 417 punches. Stevens was 169 0f 708.

Melikuziev took two cards by 118-110 and 117-111 tallies. Stevens took a card by a 116-112 score.

Melikuziev, 170 lbs of Uzbekistan is now 15-1. Stevens, 167.4 lbs of Reading, PA is 14-2.

“Tough fight,” said Bektemir Melikuziev. “Awkward clash of styles. I did my best on a short notice.”

Fundora Stops Alaniz in 7; Becomes Undisputed Flyweight Champion

Gabriela Fundora became the undisputed flyweight champion with a seventh round stoppage over Gabriela Alaniz

In round seven, Fundora dropped Alaniz with a good straight left hand, Seconds later, it was a perfect left on the jaw that folded Alaniz over and the fight stopped at 1:40.

Fundora, 111 lbs of Coachella, CA is 15-0 with seven knockouts. Alaniz, 110.4 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 15-2.

Fundora became the youngest undisputed champion in boxing history at 22 years old.

“This is a dream come true that I have made become a reality,” said Gabriela Fundora. “My team and I have been training to make history and we did that tonight. I didn’t really feel Alaniz’ power, but I knew she came to do what I did which is look for a knockout. I had been practicing that punch since the beginning of training camp – I felt like Bruce Lee preparing for this fight. We’ll see what’s next for me – I can go up in weight or go down – we will see.”

Fulghum Stops Pearson in 3

Darius Fulghum stopped Christopher Pearson in round three of a 10-rouns super middleweight contest.

In round one, Fulghum landed a combination in the corner that sent Pearson down. In round three, Fulghum just continued to land shots against Pearson. Pearson was not throwing back and the fight was stopped at 1:03

Fulghum, 167 lbs of Houston is 13-0 with 11 knockouts. Pearson, 166.4 lbs of Selma, TX is 17-5-1.

Iriarte Stops Madrid in 1st Round

Joel Iriarte stopped Xavier Madrid in the opening round of their six-round welterweight bout.

In round one, Iriarte landed a crushing 1-2 that sent Madrid to the canvas and the fight was stopped at 2:50.

Iriarte, 146.4 lbs of Bakersfield, CA is 5-0 with five knockouts. Madrid, 147 lbs of Albuquerque, MEX is 5-6.

Eric Tudor won a 10-round unanimous decision over Harold Calderon in a welterweight bout.

Tudor, 145 lbs of Fort Lauderdale, FL won by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 twice and is now 12-1. Calderon, 146.6 lbs of Miami is 28-2.

Asa Stevens remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Garea Diagan in a featherweight bout.

Stevens, 125 lbs of Waianae, HA won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 7-0. Diagan, 125 lbs of General santos City, PHL is 10-5.

Dalis Kaleopu won a six-round unanimous decision over Manuel Lerna in a super featherweight bout.

Kaleopu scored a knockdown in round two and won by scores of 60-53 on all cards.

Kaleopu, 130.8 lbs of Waianae, HA is 6-0. Lerna, 131.8 lbs of Pharr, TX is 4-1.

Jordan Fuentes won a four-round unanimous decision over Roberto Pena in a super bantamweight fight.

Fuentes, 119 lbs of Fresno, CA won by scores of 40-35 and 40-36 twice and is now 2-0. Pena, 119.8 lbs of McAllen, TX is 4-5.




COMPLETE UNDERCARD FOR SCHOFIELD VS. GIRON FINALIZED WITH FAN-FAVORITE FIGHTERS

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (October 25, 2024): The complete card has been finalized for the anticipated return of the undefeated Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield Jr. (17-0, 12 KOs) of Austin, Texas who will challenge the gritty Rene “El Bravo” Tellez Girón (20-3, 13 KOs) of Querétaro, Mexico and defend his WBA International Lightweight Title. The 12-round main event is presented in association with Davies Entertainment, is scheduled to take place at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas on Saturday, November 2, and will be exclusively broadcast worldwide on DAZN.

Tickets for Schofield vs. Girón are on sale and are priced at $100, $75, $50 and $25 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Suite Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or GoldenBoy.com.

In the co-main event, Shoimbek, Uzbekistan’s Bektemir “Bek” Melikuziev (14-1, 10 KOs) will take a massive jump forward in his journey in becoming a world champion in a 10-round WBA Super Middleweight World Championship Eliminator Fight against Golden Boy stablemate of Reading, Pennsylvania, David “Dynamite” Stevens (14-1, 10 KOs). With identical records, both fighters are coming off knockout victories.

Also on the DAZN Broadcast, in a historic, Undisputed Female Flyweight World Championship co-promoted with Sampson Boxing, the Coachella Valley’s undefeated IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (14-0, 6 KOs) will challenge Buenos Aires, Argentina’s WBA, WBC, WBO Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “LA Chuky” Alaniz (15-1, 6 KOs) for all the marbles – including the Ring Magazine Flyweight World Title Belt in a 10-round war. To date, there has never been an undisputed female champion in the flyweight division.

Defending his WBA Intercontinental Super Middleweight Title, undefeated blue-chip prospect Darius “DFG” Fulghum (12-0, 10 KOs) of Katy, Texas, will measure up against Selma, Texas’ Christopher Pearson (17-4-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round match. Opening the DAZN Broadcast, Bakersfield, California’s top prospect and former Team USA member Joel Iriarte (4-0, 4 KOs) will participate in a six-round welterweight event against Albuquerque, New Mexico’s Xavier Madrid (5-5, 2 KOs).

On the Golden Boy Boxing: Schofield vs. Giron Prelims streamed live on Golden Boy’s YouTube channel, Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s Eric Tudor (11-1, 7 KOs) is on a redemptive comeback tour and will participate in a 10-round welterweight fight against tough competitor Harold Calderon (28-1, 19 KOs) of Miami, Florida. In a six-round super bantamweight fight, Gael Cabrera (5-0, 3 KOs) of Sonora Mexico will fight a soon to be announced opponent.

Representing Waianae, Hawaii, Asa “Ace” Stevens (6-0, 2 KOs) will look to stay undefeated in a six-round super bantamweight fight against a soon to be announced opponent. In a six-round super featherweight fight and also representing Waianae, Dalis Kaleiopu (5-0, 4 KOs) will fight Pharr, Texas’ Manuel Lerma (4-0). Opening fight night and the YouTube stream, Team USA standout and recently signed GBP fighter Jordan Fuentes (1-0) of Fresno, California will fight Roberto Peña (4-4, 3 KOs) of McAllen, Texas in a four-round bantamweight fight.

Media interested in applying for a credential can apply by clicking HERE. Media credential applications are due by EOD, October 25, 2024.

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Schofield. vs. Telles Giron is a 12-round fight for the WBA International Lightweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight will take place on November 2 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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

About AEG Presents

Combining the power of the live event with a focus on true artist development, AEG Presents is a world leader in the music and entertainment industries. Operating across five continents, the company has an unparalleled commitment to artistry, creativity, and community. Its tentpole festivals and multi-day music events — which include the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival alongside British Summer Time at Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Hangout Festival, Electric Forest, Rock En Seine, and All Points East — continue to set the bar for the live music experience. AEG Presents promotes global tours for artists such as Justin Bieber, Blackpink, Kenny Chesney, Celine Dion, Elton John, Karol G, Paul McCartney, Katy Perry, The Rolling Stones, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, and Tyler, The Creator, in addition to — through its network of clubs, theatres, arenas, stadiums and renowned partner brands such as The Bowery Presents, Concerts West, Frontier Touring, Goldenvoice, Marshall Arts, Messina Touring Group, PromoWest Productions, and Zero Mile Presents — creating and developing an unmatched infrastructure for artist development and audience reach. More information can be found at www.aegpresents.com.

About The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

Exclusively booked and managed by AEG Presents, The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is a premier live entertainment venue featuring the most highly-regarded talents in music and comedy. Formerly The Joint, the venue has hosted some of the top names in entertainment across countless genres since its inception, including iconic acts such as Paul McCartney, Bert Kreischer, Blink-182, Drake, Guns N’ Roses, Imagine Dragons, Journey, Karol G, Kenny Chesney, The Killers, Machine Gun Kelly, Nine Inch Nails, Prince, Rex Orange County, Santana, The 1975, and countless others.

The Theater provides an immersive setting for guests to experience both legendary and groundbreaking artists on a variety of levels, from intimate performances with 1,800 guests to large-scale, full-capacity experiences with 4,600 guests. Setting the bar for the most luxurious in-venue concert experience, The Theater offers exclusive VIP offerings, including luxury private suites tended by dedicated VIP hosts, top-shelf spirits, a private expedited entry, in-venue merchandise delivery, custom swag, VIP social lounges, and more, guaranteed to give guests an unparalleled live entertainment and VIP experience at every touchpoint. To learn more about the venue’s VIP service or to book, please email TheTheaterVIP@aegpresents.com. For tickets or more information on The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, visit virginhotelslv.com/venue/the-theater.




FLOYD “KID AUSTIN” SCHOFIELD TO MAKE GRAND RETURN TO THE RING IN HEADLINING EVENT AGAINST RENE “EL BRAVO” TELLEZ GIRÓN

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (October 7, 2024): The undefeated Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield Jr. (17-0, 12 KOs) of Austin, Texas will make his anticipated return to the ring in a 12-round fight against the gritty Rene “El Bravo” Tellez Girón (20-3, 13 KOs) of Querétaro, Mexico, for the WBA International Lightweight Title. The event, presented in association with Davies Entertainment, is scheduled to take place at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas on Saturday, November 2, and exclusively broadcast worldwide on DAZN.

“I am beyond excited for my return to the ring as the official main event, and to show the world what I’ve been working on,” said Floyd Schofield Jr. “My goal is simple: become a world champion. My opponent has measured up against some tough contenders and will be looking to steal the show, but we won’t let him do that this time around.”

Schofield Jr. made his professional debut on October 9, 2020 with a skilled knockout over Richard Esquibel. Since then, he has quickly built out his undefeated, professional portfolio with a series of knockout wins. He was last seen in the ring successfully defending his WBA International Lightweight title against the unconventional Esteuri Suero who was disqualified in the fifth round for a low blow, an accumulation of point deductions, and poor sportsmanship. No stranger to overcoming adversity, Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield Jr. battled through poverty and homelessness to become one of the hottest world title contenders in the lightweight division. A pugilist working out of Davies Boxing and Fitness in San Antonio, Texas, his training and sparring resume features a long list of current and up-and-coming world champions.

“I’m so excited about this fight, like none other so far in my career. Floyd Schofield, he’s just another big name guy in my way to the top of the lightweight division,” said Rene Telles Girón. “I will win, my preparation is always great, that’s why I just scored two big wins in my last two fights. I like upsets, I’m that guy that will take your heart. I’m a proud fighter of Mexico, I will win this fight for my country, I’m tough.”

Rene Telles Girón, born and raised in Querétaro, Mexico, was last seen in a brutal demolishing of Alex Dilmaghani via seventh-round stoppage. His career took off with a series of victories in the regional circuit, where he displayed impressive knockout power and strategic prowess. Girón is recognized for his disciplined approach, exceptional footwork, and a strong defensive game, which has earned him respect from both peers and opponents.

“I’ve always said that “Kid Austin” has the “it” factor to not only be a champion, but to be a global superstar,“ said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya. “Everyone knows that Schofield goes for the KO every time, but Girón has never been knocked out. This will be a real test for Floyd as he looks to continue his rise up the rankings.”

Tickets for Schofield vs Girón will go on-sale Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. PT and are priced at $100, $75, $50 and $25 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Suite Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or GoldenBoy.com. An exclusive pre-sale is available through AXS.com beginning today from 10:00 a.m. PT until 10:00 p.m. PT with Code: GBPVEGAS.

In the co-main event, Shoimbek, Uzbekistan’s Bektemir “Bek” Melikuziev (14-1, 10 KOs) will take a massive jump forward in his journey in becoming a world champion in a 10-round WBA Super Middleweight World Championship Eliminator Fight against Golden Boy stablemate of Reading, Pennsylvania, David “Dynamite” Stevens (14-1, 10 KOs). With identical records, both fighters are coming off knockout victories.

Also on the DAZN Broadcast, in a historic, Undisputed Female Flyweight World Championship co-promoted with Sampson Boxing, the Coachella Valley’s undefeated IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (14-0, 6 KOs) will challenge Buenos Aires, Argentina’s WBA, WBC, WBO Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “LA Chuky” Alaniz (15-1, 6 KOs) for all the marbles – including the Ring Magazine Flyweight World Title Belt in a 10-round war. To date, there has never been an undisputed female champion in the flyweight division.

Defending his WBA Intercontinental Super Middleweight Title, undefeated blue-chip prospect Darius “DFG” Fulghum (12-0, 10 KOs) of Katy, Texas, will measure up against Selma, Texas’ Christopher Pearson (17-4-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round match. Opening the DAZN Broadcast, Bakersfield, California’s top prospect and former Team USA member Joel Iriarte (4-0, 4 KOs) will participate in a six-round lightweight event against a soon to be announced opponent.

More information on the preliminary undercard will be announced in the upcoming weeks.

Media interested in applying for a credential can apply by clicking HERE. Media credential applications are due by EOD, October 25, 2024.

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Schofield. vs. Telles Giron is a 12-round fight for the WBA International Lightweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight will take place on November 2 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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

About AEG Presents

Combining the power of the live event with a focus on true artist development, AEG Presents is a world leader in the music and entertainment industries. Operating across five continents, the company has an unparalleled commitment to artistry, creativity, and community. Its tentpole festivals and multi-day music events — which include the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival alongside British Summer Time at Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Hangout Festival, Electric Forest, Rock En Seine, and All Points East — continue to set the bar for the live music experience. AEG Presents promotes global tours for artists such as Justin Bieber, Blackpink, Kenny Chesney, Celine Dion, Elton John, Karol G, Paul McCartney, Katy Perry, The Rolling Stones, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, and Tyler, The Creator, in addition to — through its network of clubs, theatres, arenas, stadiums and renowned partner brands such as The Bowery Presents, Concerts West, Frontier Touring, Goldenvoice, Marshall Arts, Messina Touring Group, PromoWest Productions, and Zero Mile Presents — creating and developing an unmatched infrastructure for artist development and audience reach. More information can be found at www.aegpresents.com.

About The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

Exclusively booked and managed by AEG Presents, The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is a premier live entertainment venue featuring the most highly-regarded talents in music and comedy. Formerly The Joint, the venue has hosted some of the top names in entertainment across countless genres since its inception, including iconic acts such as Paul McCartney, Bert Kreischer, Blink-182, Drake, Guns N’ Roses, Imagine Dragons, Journey, Karol G, Kenny Chesney, The Killers, Machine Gun Kelly, Nine Inch Nails, Prince, Rex Orange County, Santana, The 1975, and countless others.

The Theater provides an immersive setting for guests to experience both legendary and groundbreaking artists on a variety of levels, from intimate performances with 1,800 guests to large-scale, full-capacity experiences with 4,600 guests. Setting the bar for the most luxurious in-venue concert experience, The Theater offers exclusive VIP offerings, including luxury private suites tended by dedicated VIP hosts, top-shelf spirits, a private expedited entry, in-venue merchandise delivery, custom swag, VIP social lounges, and more, guaranteed to give guests an unparalleled live entertainment and VIP experience at every touchpoint. To learn more about the venue’s VIP service or to book, please email TheTheaterVIP@aegpresents.com. For tickets or more information on The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, visit virginhotelslv.com/venue/the-theater.




WORLD CHAMPION FUNDORA SIBLINGS TO ATTEND ATLANTIC CITY BOXING HALL OF FAME 2024 INDUCTION WEEKEND

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (August 14, 2024) — History making siblings, Unified WBC and WBO Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian Fundora and his sister, IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela Fundora, will be in attendance at the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame’s 8th Annual Awards & Induction Weekend to be held at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on September 27th – September 29th.

The hard-punching duo will attend the “Opening Bell VIP Cocktail Reception” at The Balcony inside the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, to meet-and-greet with fans in attendance and participate in the weekend festivities during the yearly celebration of Atlantic City’s rich boxing history.

The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Class of 2024 inductees include: James “Buster” Douglas, Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez, Paul Williams, Gerry Cooney, Mark Breland, Sharmba Mitchell, Tyrone Mitchell Frazier, Mario Maldonado and Eva Jones-Young in the fighter category, James “Buddy” McGirt, Bruce Blair, the Fundoras’ promoter Sampson Lewkowicz, Eric Bottjer, Randy Gordon, Guy Gargan in the Contributor category with posthumous awards presented to Howard Davis Jr., Jay Larkin, and Eddie Cotton.

Eric Seelig, George Godfrey and Joey Giardello will also be honored as pioneers of the sport.

For more information, please visit acbhof.com

Tickets can be purchased for Awards & Induction Ceremony by visiting: Ticketmaster | ticket prices are: $125.00 & $60.00 please visit our website for all event tickets, room reservations and full event schedule and itinerary at: www.acbhof.com  

A special thanks to our sponsors and supporters: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Boardwalk Resorts – Flagship Hotel, Mayor Marty Small Sr., City of Atlantic City, Bare Knuckle Fighting Champions, Hard Hitting Promotions, Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, The Irish Pub-Atlantic City, D’Arcy Johnson Day-Lawyers, O.C.E.A.N Inc; Community Action Partnership & Atlantic City PAL, Sampson Boxing, Quail Hill Realty-Smithville, Holman Wealth Management, Tennessee Ave Tobacco Company, Sparbar LTD, Patrick Killian Arts, SiSi Hollywood, Guzman Gloves, Adams Boxing, WBC, IBF, Icons of Boxing Memorabilia and Fight Night Apparel

For more information, visit the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame’s website at: www.acbhof.com




Vergil Ortiz Overcomes Two Knockdowns to Decision Bohachuk to Claim Interim Super Welterweight Title

Vergil Ortiz Jr. had two knockdowns ruled against him, but was able to gut out a 12-round majority decision over Serhii Bohachuk to win the WBC Interim Super Welterweight Title at the Michloeb Ultra Arena inside the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

In round one, Bohachuk was credited a knockdown when he landed a right hand that connected with Ortiz and after instant replay review, it was ruled the extra point for the Ukranian.

In round eight, Bohachuk landed a left hook that forced the glove of Ortiz to touch the canvas and was ruled a second knockdown. That only inspired Ortiz to land vicious right hands in the round. Ortiz began to bleed from the bridge of his nose. In round 11, Ortiz hurt Bohachuk with a left hook that froze Bohachuk. In round 12, Ortiz wobbled Bohachuk with a right hand.

Lopez landed 265 of 746 punches. Bohachyk was 225 or 832.

Ortiz, 153.8 lbs of Grand Prairie, x was able to win by scores 114-112 twice and 113-113 and is now 22-0. Bohachuk, 153.8 lbs of Vinitza, UKR is 24-2.

“This has been what we have been fighting for since I was five years old,” said Vergil Ortiz, Jr. “Straight from school, go to the gym, do my homework and get straight to work. When I went pro, it was all day business – 24/7 boxing and it has finally paid off. The first knockdown, I didn’t feel like it was a true knockdown, I felt like I hit his shoe, but the second one really was one. I feel like I did enough to win this fight. I proved everyone wrong. Everyone was saying that I’m washed, that I can’t fight at 154, or that I can’t go the distance. All of that fueled me. I am the best in the world now.”“People saw this fight today, and the real boxing fans who watched this fight know what happened tonight,” said Serhii Bohachuk. “I am feeling great. I knocked him down twice. I want to support my country, Ukraine, I want to say thank you to all the fans for all the support.”

Conwell Takes out Gray in 2

Charles Conwell remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Khiary Gray in a 10-round super welterweight bout.

In round two, Conwell landed two lefts to the head and then a thudding left to the body put Gray down for the 10-count at

Conwell, 153.8 lbs of Cleveland is 20-0 with 15 knockouts. Gray, 154 lbs of Worcester, MA is 18-7.

Sims Jr. Stops Former Champ Romero After 5

Kenneth Sims Jr. stopped very late replacement and former world champion Jonathan Romero After round five of their 10-round super lightweight bout.

Sims dominated and worked the body and slowly beat down Romero, who took the bout on 24 hours notice.

Sims148.4 lbs of Chicago is 21-2-1 with eight knockouts. Romero, 145.4 lbs of Cali, COL 35-5.

Fundora Decisions Asenjo; Defends Flyweight Title

Gabriela Fundora defended her IBF Flyweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Daniela Asenjo.

Fundora landed 194 of 506 punches. Asenjo was 63 of 312.

Fundora, 109.8 lbs of Coachella, CA won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 14-0. Asenjo, 111.3 lbs of Valdivia, CHL is 16-4-3.

Iriarte Stops Ortiz in 1

Joel Iriarte stopped Miguel Ortiz in the opening round of their six-round welterweight bout.

Iriarte hurt Ortiz several times and landed six punches that knocked him between the ropes and the fight was stopped at 2:15.

Iriarte, 146.4 lbs of Bakersfield, CA is 4-0 with four knockouts. Ortiz, 143.6 lbs of Springfield MA is 3-2.

Cecilia Braekhus won the WBC Interim Super Welterweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Maricela Cornejo.

Braekhus, 154.6 lbs of Bergen, NOR won by scores of 96-93 on all cards and is now 38-2-1. Cornejo, 153 lbs of Prosser, WA is 19-7.

Eric Priest remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Luke Lozo in a middleweight bout.

Proest, 159 lbs of Overland Park, KS won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 14-0. Lozo, 160 lbs of Split, CRO is 9-3-1.

Johnny Canas remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Joseph Cruz in a super lightweight bout.

In round three, Cruz was cut over his left eye.

Canas, 136.8 lbs of Santa Ana, CA won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 5-0. Cruz, 132 lbs of Sonora, MEX ia 7-10.

Jordan Fuentes made a successful debut with a four-round unanimous decision over James Mulder in a super featherweight bout.

Fuentes, 122.4 lbs of Fresno, CA won by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 twice and is now 1-0. Mulder, 127 lbs of Antioch, CA is 0-3.

Jennah Creaspn won her pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Kelsey Wickstrum in a welterweight bout.

Creason, 144.6 lbs of Visalia, CA is 1-0. Wickstrum, 146 lbs of Reading, CA is 2-2.




Statement Delivered: Munguia stops Ryder

PHOENIX — A statement was demanded.

Statement delivered.

Jaime Munguia did what Canelo Alvarez could not. He stopped a tough, smart John Ryder Saturday night in a super-middleweight fight that was a test of Munguia’s potential.

There’s plenty of that, perhaps enough for him to land a Canelo fight projected to be in May. It’s all up to Canelo, whose pay-per-view clout and celebrity comes with a perk. He does what he wants to.

It’s anybody’s guess as to whether he wants the Munguia that 10,836 fans at Footprint Center saw against Ryder, whose corner threw in the towel at 1:25 of the ninth round.

“It would be an honor to be in the same ring with him,’’ Munguia (43-0, 34 KOs) said when asked the inevitable Canelo question.

Canelo or not, there’s one thing certain about Munguia, a 27-year-old fighter from Tijuana. He stepped out of the ring with enhanced credibility.

He’s a player, a proven threat at 168 pounds. Put him alongside David Benavidez, David Morrell, Edgar Berlanga and Jermall Charlo.

“I was ready for this,’’ he said. “I knew I was ready for this.’’

He knew more than just about anybody other than his Hall of Fame trainer, Freddie Roach. Roach predicated Munguia would win an eighth-round TKO. Roach missed by only a round.

Munguia did it with four knockdowns of Ryder (32-7, 18 KOs), a 35-year-old fighter who faces some tough question about whether his career has come to end.

Munguia knocked down Ryder in the second with a body shot that left a nasty red mark Ryder’s right side. He knocked down the UK fighter again in the fourth with successive left hands.

Then, there was the ninth. There was a right to the top head. Ryder was down for a third time. Then another blow to the head. Ryder was down for a fourth time. The towel soon followed, a sign of surrender for Ryder and the beginning of a second chapter for the emerging Munguia.

 Minimum Weight, Max Power: Oscar Collazo retains title 

It’s called minimum. Somehow, that isn’t quite fair to Oscar Collazo.

Maximum is more like it.

Collazo, the World Boxing Organization’s minimum weight champion flashed max power, knocking Reyneris Gutierrez, into the ropes and then flat on the canvas before the referee interceded and stopped it for third-round TKO Saturday night on the Jaime Munguia-John Ryder featured card at Footprint Center.

First, it was a huge right hand form Collazo (9-0, 7 KOs) that drove Gutierrez (10-2, 2 KOs) into the ropes. If not for those ropes, The Nicaraguan would have tumbled out of the ring, over the work table and onto the floor. Then, it was a left hand from the Puerto Rican. This time, no ropes were in the way. Gutierrez hit the deck. Moments later, it was over, a TKO:at 37 seconds of the third.

Darius Fulghum  wins a unanimously-booed dud

It was a fight full of clinches, missed punches, rabbit punches, boos  and more boos. There was even the wave.

Just when you thought it was extinct, Darius Fulghum and Alantez Fox brought it back. That’s how bad their super-middleweight fight was on the DAZN-streamed undercard for the Jaime Munguia-John Ryder mnin event at Footprint Center Saturday night.

The booing started in the second round. It got louder, even louder, until a near capacity crowd just bored. It started doing the wave. Yeah, that wave. Hands up, stand up and sit down, going from section to section in an undulating ring around the arena. Hey, it was better than watching the fight.

By the way, Fulghum (10-, 9 KOs), of Houston, won it, scoring a majority

 decision over Fox (28-6-1, 13 KOs), of Upper Marlboro MD. 

Not so sweet stoppage

Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora 12-0 (9KOs) made her first women’s IBF Flyweight title defense VS Christina Cruz 6-0. The fight was a battle of the sweet science of hit but not get hit, no one fighter looked dominate in the match. One fighter did control the ring through out the fight and was more active with her combinations and stunning her opponent. Fundora was using her ring IQ to cut off the ring and edging out the rounds in her favor in a very close fight. More over as the championship rounds rolled along Gabriela showed the heart of a warrior and took the fight over effortlessly out boxing Cruz. With less than a minute left in the 10th and final round referee Chris Flores stepped in and called a end to the fight in a controversial fashion. Cruz was not hurt and was simply walking away with her guard up still  defending herself. Visibly upset Cruz pleaded her case of why it should not have been stopped with some ringside having it a drawing going into the final round. Coming out on top and staying undefeated Fundora moves to 13-0 (10KOs) in a post fight interview Fundora praised Cruz “Cruz is a good fighter and glad she stepped up” also “I looked to her because she was an olympian and had a picture on my wall as a kid” ending her statement by saying “Cruz is an amazing fighter and it was an honor to share the ring”. When asked about the stoppage Fundora stated “I unleashed on her, and she turned around indicating she no longer wanted to fight”

One can only ask if she deserves a rematch or does the co-promotions between Golden Boy Promotions and Sampson Promotion look to set up a fight for undisputed later this year, Seemingly the road block to undisputed is Marlen Esparza who holds the other 3 tittle and has an upcoming fight that she can not look past herself. Just as her smile, the future is bright for the undefeated fighter of Coachella, CA….David Galaviz

David Picasso scores unanimous decision in U.S. debut

David Picasso wasn’t looking for a masterpiece. 

Just a victory.

He got it.

In his first appearance in the United States, Picasso, an unbeaten featherweight from Mexico City, scored repeatedly early, tired midway, then held on and held off Erik Ruiz in the late rounds.

All of it was enough for Picasso (27-0-1, 15 KOs) to secure a unanimous  decision over Ruiz (17-10-1, 7 KOs), a fighter from Oxnard, Calif., who from round to round got more aggressive in a 10-rounder in the first DAZN-streamed fight on the Munguia-Ryder card at Footprint Center.

Daniel Garcia scores crushing first round stoppage

It was over before a lot of arriving fans ever got to their seats.

Daniel Garcia finished the non-DAZN portion of the Jaime Munguia-John Ryder card in a flash at Footprint Center. Daniel Lugo may have seen it coming. But he couldn’t do much about it.

Garcia (8-0, 6 KOs), an unbeaten  lightweight from Denver, sent a right hand flying over the edge of  Lugo’s upraised gloves. Boom, it landed, crashing off Lugo’s chin and driving his head up and around. By the time some fans looked up, it was over.

Lugo (4-2, 1 KO), of Phoenix was down and out, a stoppage loser at 1:51 of the first round.

Gregory Morales scores unanimous decision, rocks Ron and the crowd

In the third bout of the night Gregory Morales (15-1, 9KOs) of San Antonio, TX faced Ronal Ron (14-4 ,11KOs) in a super featherweight fight 

In a  feel-out first round both fighters saved all their energy for the last 20 seconds of the round with both having success landing punches. It picked right back up in the second. However as the round came to an end, Morales showed head movement and landed some crisp punches. In the theme of the fight, Morales and Ron saved all the excitement for the end of the round. They got the crowd a little excited. There were theatrics coming from Ron. He spit his mouth piece out around the 2:20 mark. A few second later, he was warned about a head butt. The pace of the round had significantly picked up, with both fighters finding their rhythm and timing. Ron was briefly stunned early in the 5th round by a well placed left from Morales.

 As the crowd started chanting “Goyo”, it gave Morales extra motivation, landing a few lefts directly to the chin of Ron. 

A left hook by Morales landed. Over the last three rounds, Morales picked up the production of his pace and dazed his opponent with a multitude of punches. The last round served as the best round for Morales as he landed some great combos that made the crowd get even loader. Morales improved to 16-1 (9KOs), scoring a unanimous decision. In fight that brought the crowd to its fight in the final round.the crowd a good fight. —–David Galaviz

Toe-to-Toe: Gael Cabrera scores knockdown wins decision in tough bout

It was power against resilience.

Gael Cabrera, a Mexican featherweight from Sonora — just south of Arizona, had the power. He needed it, all of it to win. 

Miguel Ceballos, one of two AZ fighters on the Munguia-Ryder card, had the resilience, almost enough of it to score an upset.

But the power prevailed. A straight right hand from Cabrera (4-0, 3 KOs) put Ceballos down in the first round. Then, Cabrera held on, withstanding repeated bursts of energy from Ceballos (2-1, 2 KOs), of Peoria AZ.  Cabrera appeared to tire, but he still had enough power in both hands to keep Ceballos off him. The result: Cabrera won a unanimous decision in a hard-fought fight.

First Bell: Munguia-Ryder card begins with a quick stoppage

It should have been a matinee. But Jonathan Canas turned it into a short subject.

Canas, a lightweight from Santa Ana CA, needed only 64 seconds to finish Kameeko Hall in the opening bout Saturday afternoon on the card featuring Jaime Mungia-John Ryder at Footprint Center.

Canas, still perfect with three knockouts in three fights, delivered a body-to-head combo that put Hall, a winless fighter from Brunswick GA, onto one knee. It was the body shot that hurt him the most. When Hall (0-4) tried to get onto his feet, he got sick to his stomach. At 1:04 of the first, it was over for everybody but the maintenance crew. It had to clean up the mess.




Sweet Poison and the sweet science 

By David Galaviz –

PHOENIX —Gabriella “Sweet Poison” Fundora (12-0, 5 KOs), of Coachella CA, will make her first defense of the IBF flyweight belt Saturday night at Footprint Center, the home of the Phoenix Suns. 

Fundora will take on challenger Cristina Cruz (6-0), of New York. When asked by reporters how does she build off her huge 2023 year into 2024, she said she wants to defend her title as many times as possible with the goal of becoming undisputed.

 When asked about the Current WBC, Ring, WBA, and WBO Flyweight champion Marlen Esparza (14-1 1KO), she stated:

“Let’s Go.”

She’s not overlooking her opponent on Saturday’s DAZN-streamed card featuring Jaime Munguia-John Ryder. That would be dangerous mistake. Cruz is an undefeated fighter coming off of a unanimous decision in October. Cruz is looking to shock the boxing world like Fundora did in her last fight with a fifth-round KO to obtain the IBF title.

Do not let that big smile fool you.  She calls herself “Sweet Poison” for a reason. When entering the ring, the smile is gone. She turned on the poison, the power in her nickname.  

The Fundora name is well-known. The family has a long line of boxers, starting with their father.  He then passed it down to his son Sebastian Fundora and Gabriella. They look to be the game’s next top family. Both kids have held multiple world titles in their respective weight divisions. 

Sebastian is coming off a devastating loss to Brian Mendoza, which he lost his junior-middle title. Looking to rebound, Sebastian is going to be on the undercard of the Timothy Tszyu-Keith Thurman card March 30th in Las Vegas where he will take on Serhii Bohachuck for the WBC Super Welterweight title.




GOLDEN BOY JOINS FORCES WITH SAMPSON BOXING TO CO-PROMOTE IBF FEMALE FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION GABRIELA FUNDORA 

LOS ANGELES, CA (January 16, 2024): Golden Boy Promotions announced today a co-promotional deal with Sampson Boxing for 21-year-old IBF Female Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (12-0, 5 KOs). Fundora is scheduled to defend her IBF title against Christina Cruz on the DAZN broadcast for Jaime Munguia vs. John Ryder on Saturday, January 27.

“I am ready and prepared for my first title defense and I feel like nothing can stop me from winning,” said Gabriela Fundora. “Christina Cruz is a good fighter, but I am building my legacy as a champion and no one can stop me.”
“We were blown away by Gabriela’s performance in October, and are proud to have yet another world champion fighting under the Golden Boy banner,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “At just 21 years old, the sky’s the limit for her and I fully expect her to deliver a knockout performance in Phoenix on January 27.”

“Gabriela Fundora is an amazing talent who works non-stop in the gym to reach her dreams,” said co-promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “They say once you win a championship, confidence makes you an even better fighter, which is bad news for Christina Cruz. I’m looking forward to a sensational performance from boxing’s newest female star, “Sweet Poison,” Gabriela Fundora.”

A force to be reckoned with as one of the youngest of the current female world champions, at only 21-years-old Fundora has impressed fans and media alike. She was last seen in front of her native Southern California fans on October 21, 2023 at the Kia Forum, where she was able to stop and steal the IBF title from veteran champion Arely Muciño. Representing the Coachella Valley, Fundora comes from a highly respected boxing family. Having begun boxing at six-years old, she joined the professional ranks in 2021 with an unanimous decision victory over Jazmin Valverde. She went on to secure the WBC Latino Flyweight title on October 8, 2022 against Naomi Arellano Reyes and the WBC Youth World Fly Tania Garcia Hernandez on February 23, 2023.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy.




Santillan Dismantles Rocha

Giovani Santillan scored an upset sixth round stoppage over Alexis Rocha in a scheduled 12-round welterweight bout at The Kia Forum in Inglewood, California.

In round four, Rocha began to bleed from the nose. In round five, Santillan dropped Rocha with an uppercut. Santillan sent Rocha down again with a big combination and a left to the top of the head. In round six, Santillan continued the assault as he bludgeoned Rocha with a wicked combination to the head that made Rocha wilt to the canvas and the fight was stopped at 1:13.

Santillan, 146 lbs of San Diego is 32-0 with 17 knockouts. Rocha, 147 lbs of Santa Ana, CA is 23-2.

“I feel good. It was the outcome we were looking for. You never know how these types of fights will go,” said Giovani Santillan. “Alexis is a great fighter, and he’s tough. He got up twice and he’s never been stopped before! It’s different with all these people here and when you’re the b-side. He brought all his fans and his supporters which makes boxing a great sport. 2024 is going to be a great year for me now with this performance.”

“I am sorry to all my fans,” said Alexis Rocha. “I will be back.”

John Ramirez earned a world title shot by stopping Ronal Batista in the fourth round of their 12-round WBA Super Flyweight Elimination bout.

In round four, Ramirez dropped Batista with a left to the body. With Batista hurt, Ramirez dropped Batista again with a big flurry of 12 shots on the ropes that was finished by a right to the head and the fight was stopped at 2:33.

Ramirez, 115 lbs of Los Angeles is 13-0 with nine knockouts. Batista, 114.2 lbs of Panama City is 15-4.

“I was slow cooking him and I wanted to eat him. I eventually gave up and took him out,” said Scrappy Ramirez. “This was a result of staying focused and making the necessary adjustments.

In a bloody battle, Ricardo Sandoval won a 10-round unanimous decision over Victor Sandoval in a flyweight battle.

Ricardo Sandoval, 111.8 lbs of Rialto, CA won by scores of 97-93 twice and 96-94 and is now 23-2. Victor Sandoval, 111.2 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 37-4.

Gabriela Fundora won the IBF Flyweight championship with a four-round beatdown of reigning champion Arely Mucino.

In round four, Fundora dropped Mucino with a right to the temple that was followed by a straight left to the chin. Fundora dropped Mucino again with a vicious flurry on the ropes asnd the fight was stopped by the corner at 1:18.

Fundora, 110.8 lbs of Coachella, CA is 12-0 with five knockouts. Murcino, 111.8 lbs is 32-4-2.

In a battle of undefeated super middleweights, Joeshon James stopped David Stevens in the opening round of their eight-round bout.

In round one, James hurt Stevens with a right hand and then dropped him with a left hook. James dropped Stevens again with a flurry that punctuated by a right hand. James finished off Stevens with a hard flurry that forced referee Jerry Cantu to stop the bout at 2:52.

James, 166.8 lbs of Sacramento is now 8-0-2 with five knockouts. Stevens, 167 lbs of Reading, PA is 13-1.




THREE EXCITING SHOWDOWNS TO STREAM LIVE ON SHOWTIME SPORTS® DIGITAL PLATFORMS THIS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8 BEGINNING AT 7:30 P.M. ET/4:30 P.M. PT

 

CARSON, CALIF. – October 6, 2022 – Three exciting showdowns featuring contenders and rising prospects will stream live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME® Boxing Facebook page this Saturday, October 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif.

With action kicking off at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT, the COUNTDOWN show, hosted by Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, features veteran welterweight contenders Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas and Mykal Fox squaring off in a 10-round bout. Featherweight contenders Viktor Slavinskyi and Edward Vazquez also meet in an eight-round duel, while unbeaten flyweight prospect Gabriela Fundora, the younger sister of unbeaten headliner Sebastian Fundora, kicks off the show battling Mexico’s Naomi Reyes in a 10-round fight.

The preliminary bouts will lead up to a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT featuring Interim WBC Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora defending his belt against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo in the main event.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com.

The stacked non-televised undercard lineup also includes unbeaten lightweight prospects Justin Cardona (8-0, 6 KOs) and Angel Alejandro (10-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round matchup, Filipino Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial (2-0, 1 KO) taking on Steven Pichardo (8-2-1, 2 KOs) in a four-round middleweight attraction and super welterweight Brandon Lynch (11-1-1, 8 KOs) facing Argentina’s Roque Junco (11-12-1, 6 KOs) for eight-rounds of action.

Rounding out the card will be unbeaten Phoenix-native Elijah Garcia (11-0, 9 KOs) battling Mexico’s Edgar Valenzuela (7-1, 6 KOs) in a six-round middleweight duel, unbeaten featherweight Shon Mondragon (7-0-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round bout and featherweight Jose Perez (10-1-2, 4 KOs) stepping into the ring for a six-round showdown.

A two-time Olympian for his native Lithuania, Kavaliauskas (22-2-1, 18 KOs) now fights out of California as he seeks a second shot at a 147-pound world title. The 34-year-old came up short in his first attempt, dropping a 2019 title bout against Terence Crawford before most recently losing to unbeaten Vergil Ortiz Jr. in August 2021. He will be opposed by Maryland’s Fox (22-3, 5 KOs), who returns to the ring after dropping a controversial decision to Gabriel Maestre in August 2021. Standing at nearly six-feet-four-inches tall, the 26-year-old has used his size and boxing acumen to establish himself as a crafty contender in a pro career that dates back to 2014.

Originally from Ukraine and residing in Los Angeles, Slavinskyi (13-1-1, 6 KOs) will look to bounce back from his first defeat on October 8, which came via majority decision against hard-hitting contender Claudio Marrero in February. The 32-year-old had previously ridden a six-bout winning streak into that fight, which included a decision triumph over Leduan Barthelemy in June 2021. He will face the 27-year-old Vazquez (12-1, 3 KOs), a Fort Worth, Texas-native who most recently defeated Jose Argel in July. Vazquez’s only blemish came via split-decision against the unbeaten Raymond Ford in February.

Trained by her father Freddy alongside her brother Sebastian, Fundora (8-0, 4 KOs) has impressed since turning pro in May 2021, dominating her competition on her way to eight early wins. The 20-year-old from Coachella, Calif., will return to Dignity Health Sports Park for the third time after earning her first two pro victories at the venue. She will battle Nayarit, Mexico’s Reyes (9-1, 5 KOs), who turned pro in 2016 and suffered her only loss via decision in 2018. Since then, Reyes has put together five-straight victories, with four coming by stoppage.

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ABOUT FUNDORA VS. OCAMPO

Fundora vs. Ocampo will see unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora seek to continue his dominance and demonstrate why he’s one of the most feared fighters in boxing when he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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




Gonzalez Stops Angulo in 3

Jousce Gonzalez stopped Jose Angulo in round three of a scheduled eight-round super lightweight bout at The Fantasy Springs Casino Resort in Indio, California.

In round three, Gonzalez landed a left hook to the body that sent Angulo down for the 10-count at 2:29.

Gonzalez, 136.6 lbs of Covina, CA is 13-0-1 with 12 knockouts. Angulo, 136.2 lbs of Pixley, CA is 14-3.

Manuel Flores stopped Daniel Moncada in round three of their eight-round super bantamweight bout.

In round three, Flores landed a hard combination that was followed by a vicious left that put Moncada down and out at 1:35.

Flores, 119.8 lbs of Coachella, CA is 13-0 with 10 knockouts. Moncada, 119.8 lbs of Mexico City is 15-7-2.

Elnur Abduraimov scored an explosive first round stoppage over Leonel Moreno in a scheduled 10-round junior lightweight fight.

In round one, Abrduraimov dropped Moreno with a big left left hand to the Solar Plexas. Moreno could not beat the count at the fight was stopped at 1:14.

Abduraimov, 129.6 lbs of Indio, CA is now 10-0 with nine knockouts. Moreno, 135.8 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 11-2-1.

Gabriela Fundora remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Lucia Nunez in a flyweight fight.

Fundora, 111.8 lbs of Coachella, CA won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 8-0. Nunez, 109 lbs of Mexico City, MEX is 7-13.

In a battle of undefeated middleweight, Eric Tudor stopped Edgar Valenzuela in round two of a scheduled six-round bout.

In round two Tudor dropped Valenzuela with a body shot. Moments later, it was another left to the body that put Valenzuela down for a second time, and the fight was stopped at 2:04.

Tudor, 156.9 lbs of Fort Lauderdale, FL is 5-0 with four knockouts. Valenzuela, 156.9 lbs of Douglas, AZ is 701.

Jasmine Artiga remained undefeated with a six-round split decision over Amy Salinas in a super flyweight bout.

Artiga won by scores of 60-54, 58-56 while Salinas won a card 58-56.

Artiga, 114.2 lbs of Tampa, FL is 9-0-1. Salinas, 114.8 lbs of Las Cruces, NM is 4-2.




GABRIELA FUNDORA TITLE FIGHT BACK ON AFTER COVID SCARE AT WEIGH-IN YESTERDAY IN PANAMA CITY

Female flyweight prospect Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora’s 10-round fight tonight is back on after a more accurate PCR test she was administered came up negative for Covid today.

Coachella, California’s Fundora (4-0, 2 KOs) was set to face Santiago de Veraguas, Panama’s Nataly Delgado (8-4-1, 3 KOs) in a televised bout for the WBC Latino Flyweight Championship on tonight’s (Friday, January 14, 2022) “Box & Roll” event at the Vasco Núñez de Balboa Convention Center in the El Panama Hotel in Panama City, Panama.

However, at yesterday’s weigh-in, the 19-year-old southpaw and former amateur standout was shocked to discover she had tested positive for the virus, according to a rapid test. As per commission procedure, Fundora, who showed no symptoms, was allowed to weigh-in (111.25 lbs.) and was given a more-accurate 24-hour PCR test by the same laboratory to be certain.

The results of that test proved her negative status today.

“I’m so relieved,” said a happy Fundora. “We worked so hard for this, it would have been a shame to miss it. I didn’t let it get me down though. We kept the focus and our faith and today, I’m negative and the fight is back on!”

Presented by Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing, Carlos Gonzalez of Best Box, Carlos Andres Tello of Tello-Box and Paco Damian of Paco Presents and broadcast live internationally on TyC Sports and in Panama on TV Max Channel 9, Fundora will be fighting her televised battle in support of the night’s 10-round main event, Curundu, Panama’s Jaime “Jaimito” Arboleda (17-2, 14 KOs) will face Nicolas Polanco (20-1-1, 11 KOs) of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic for the WBC Latino Silver Lightweight Championship.

In the night’s co-main event, La Banda, Santiago del Estero, Argentina’s Hugo Alberto “Nato” Roldan (20-0-1, 7 KOs) will take on Barranquilla, Colombia’s German Del Castillo (10-1-2, 7 KOs) over 10 rounds for the WBC Latino Silver Super Lightweight Championship.

And in the opening televised bout, Colon City, Panama’s undefeated Ernesto Marin (9-0, 5 KOs) will face Monteria, Colombia’s Carlos Suarez (8-2, 6 KOs) in a six-round lightweight showcase.

“I’m very happy things worked Gabriela. She is a future champion,” said her promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz. “Yesterday, I was very upset, but she kept her calm and focus. I’m looking forward to another great performance from the young woman they call ‘Sweet Poison.’”

The night will begin with an amateur boxing tournament. Sembrando Campeones, a running program for South American amateur boxing, features the next wave of fighting talent from Uruguay and Panama.

On fight night, the televised action will begin at 22:00 hrs. (10:00 pm GMT-3) in Argentina Time and 20:00 hrs. (8:00 pm EST) in Panama.

For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

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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 and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.




19-Year-Old Phenom Gabriela Fundora Returns October 23 in Mexico Against Alejandra Soto

On Saturday, October 23, 19-year-old flyweight prospect Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (4-0, 2 KO) will return for a six-round flyweight battle on LC Promotions’ “Round x Round” event at the Salón de Usos Múltiples 3 Coronas in Los Reyes, Estado de México, against tough veteran Alejandra “Tintanita” Soto (7-6-1, 3 KO).

The event will be streamed live on Facebook.

Fighting for the fifth fight already this year, the skillful 5? 9? southpaw from Coachella, California, says winning her last two by KO was not a coincidence.

“I’ve turned my power up a notch,” admits Fundora during a break in training. “It happened so naturally. My first two pro fights, it was like dipping my toe in the shallow end. As soon as I had my third fight, I got used to the rhythm and since then it’s been time to sit down on my punches and show them what we’ve really got.”

While Fundora says she doesn’t often study specific opponents, she’s looking forward to getting back in the ring against Soto.

“I don’t know much about her, but we train hard to prepare for any style. We you know what you bring to the ring, you don’t worry about who you’re facing. The more I fight, the more chances I get to go over what I’m doing wrong during fights and fix it for the next one. I’m improving very quickly fighting every month and I’m in top shape.”

From a fighting family that also includes top super welterweight contender Sebastian “Towering Inferno” Fundora, the former amateur standout Gabriela says she’s seeing big improvements working, as she always has, with her father/trainer, Freddy, at his growing gym in Coachella.

“We’ve been training like this since I was small. It’s nothing new. We wake up at 6 am and run about six miles. Then, around 5 pm, we do strength and conditioning and then we get into the boxing. My speed and power are improving,” she said happily. “I recorded myself doing mitt work I didn’t realize how fast and hard I was punching until I watched the video.”

Set to have her third consecutive fight in Mexico, Fundora says she’s been very happy with the reception from Mexican fans.

“The fans in Mexico have all been very kind,” said Fundora. “They treat me like one of their own. We decided to take some fights in Mexico so I would have the experience of going outside my comfort zone to fight and the people here are amazing. It’s been an amazing experience.”

Surprisingly Fundora says the plan is to fight up to two more times this year.

“We fight every month, so by the end of the year I hope to have six fights,” Fundora asserted. “I hope to be fighting for a regional belt by next year. It’s all going to be happening soon.”

“Gabriela Fundora, the Sweet Poison, will be a world champion very soon,” said her promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz. “She has settled into the professional style and now she is knocking everyone out. I’m looking forward to a very exciting year next year for Gabriela.”
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 and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.




UNDEFEATED GABRIELA FUNDORA BACK IN ACTION TOMORROW NIGHT IN TIJUANA

Tijuana (August 20, 2021) – 19-year-old female fighting sensation Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (2-0) will return to action tomorrow night in Tijuana, taking on Mexico’s Karol Mazariegos (1-0-1, 1 KOs) in a super flyweight four-rounder to open festivities at the Najera Boxing Promotions’ event at the Round 13 Big Punch Arena.

The younger sister of world-ranked super welterweight contender Sebastian “Towering Inferno” Gabriela Fundora, is a lofty 5’ 9” former amateur standout, trained by her father, Freddy, at his increasingly popular gym in Coachella, California. The skilful southpaw says her busy schedule since turning professional is all part of a larger plan.

“I’m feeling very strong and fast and I’m excited getting back in the ring,” said Fundora, who was last seen in July of this year, taking a unanimous decision from Texas brawler Indeya Smith. “I don’t know much about Karol Mazariegos, but we are trying to stay super busy and get as much experience as possible.”

Like her brother, Fundora is promoted by Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. She says her busy schedule is part of a plan to take the fast track to a world championship fight.

“My brother and i are working extremely hard in the desert, trying to improve our craft,” she explained. “I want to get as much promotion as possible, to prepare for what my promoter has planned and that’s a world title by next year. The sky is the limit!”

From a boxing family where three of her brothers, her father and her mother were once fighters, the fighting female Fundora is the most heavily decorated member of the family while winning regional and national championships, including the 2017 USA National Junior Championship, where she was named “Boxer of the Tournament” as well as the Junior Olympics twice, and the 2017 USA Eastern and Western Olympic Qualifying Tournaments.

Lewkowicz says that because of Fundora’s extensive experience, she is already an uncrowned world champion.

“Gabriela ‘Sweet Poison’ Fundora will be a world champion a year from now. I guarantee it,” said a confident Lewkowicz, known for finding unknown talent in gyms all over the world. “She is too much for most of the fighters in her division to handle, so we are taking a fast route to the top. We are keeping her sharp and ready for when the time comes to take her first belt from one of the current champions.”
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 and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.




GABRIELA FUNDORA WINS PRO DEBUT IN IMPRESSIVE FASHION ON FIGUEROA VS. NERY UNDERCARD ON SATURDAY NIGHT

(May 17, 2021) Last Saturday night, 5’ 9” super flyweight Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora made her successful professional boxing debut with an exciting unanimous four-round decision over fellow Californian southpaw Jazmin Valverde Medina.

Fighting on the undercard of Brandon Figueroa’s Showtime-televised WBC World and WBA Super World Super Bantamweight Championship-winning KO 7 over former world champion Luis Nery at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, the 19-year-old Fundora (1-0) dropped Medina in round two and cruised to an impressive near-shutout victory (scores: 40-35, 39-36 and 40-35).

The scores, however, are not indicative of the excitement the two women generated in an exciting punch-out. The heavy underdog Medina came to fight.

“I felt great!” said Fundora. “I’m glad I was able to showcase my talent on such a great platform on Showtime. I delivered a body shot and followed it up with a right hook that dropped her in the second round and every round after that, we mixed up the punches in bunches.”

A former accomplished amateur, Fundora says she’s relieved to have her first professional fight completed successfully. “We have been preparing for our debut for a while and now that we were able to get our first fight in the books,” she admitted. “We will keep building up from there. We have a great promoter who wants to keep us busy, so we will be starting camp Monday in preparation for his confirmation of our next date.”

Fundora is the daughter in a fighting family that also includes undefeated WBC #5-rated super welterweight contender Sebastian “Towering Inferno” Fundora and her father/trainer Freddy Fundora. “I really liked the performance of both fighters,” said the elder Fundora, “from the very first round they both came in to win by throwing lots of punches with impressive speed. They showed what women’s boxing should look like. She (Gabriela) is a great student of the sport and all of her hard work and dedication paid off.”

“My sister did exactly what we train in camp to do and she showcased her skills with exciting strength!” added proud brother Sebastian.

Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz says he’s happy with Lady Fundora’s performance and will be looking to keep her very busy throughout the rest of the year.

“She is special,” said Lewkowicz, who is also known for discovering previously unknown talents including superstars Sergio Martinez, Javier Fortuna, her popular brother Sebastian, super middleweight star David Benavidez, WBA Interim Featherweight champ Eduardo “Zurdito” Ramirez, former unified king Jeison “Banana” Rosario, undefeated Michel Rivera, KO punching South American Amilcar Vidal, and the all-time-great Manny Pacquiao. “I will keep Gabriela fighting as much as possible in 2021, to get her experience for a championship fight. It won’t take long before she’s prepared to face anyone in the world. She is a special fighter.”
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 and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.