LAS VEGAS – June 12, 2024 – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez and former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk showed off their skills at an open to the public media workout on Wednesday, before they meet for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title this Saturday, June 15 in a PBC Pay-Per-View event marking the 100^th championship fight night at the historic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Also at Wednesday’s workout, boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis made an appearance in front of the fans in attendance before he defends his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin in the main event. 

The workout also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard, including undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell and unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello, who meet for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, plus WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames and veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha, who duel in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Rounding out the workout lineup was rising undefeated middleweight Elijah Garcia, who battles veteran contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a matchup that tops a three-fight PBC on Prime Video card beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and leading into the pay-per-view. The preliminary matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, Sampson Boxing, TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“It feels good to be back at MGM Grand and to be a part of something legendary like this. This is a great card and it’s just exciting to be here.

“I just want to go out there and give the fans a great show and put on a great performance Saturday night. It’s a great building at MGM and I want to give the fans something amazing to watch.

“When I come out and the people are cheering for me, it feels like we’re together. It’s like we’re family. It makes me want to put on a great performance for them.”

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“This means the world to me. This has been my dream since I was three-years-old. I’m going to have a lot of fun going out there and showcasing my talents for the fans.

“I feel stronger and faster at this weight class. I’m really excited to showcase it on Saturday night. I’m at another level now.

“I’m like a young veteran because I still have a lot of years left in me. This second half of my career is going to be the best part.”

OLEKSANDR GVOZDYK

“This is where I fought for my pro debut and I’m still here and fighting for a title against a tough opponent. What could be better? It’s exciting.

“I had a great camp. There’s no excuses. I’m definitely in one of the best conditions of my life. I’m ready to prove that I’m the best. 

“He’s going to apply pressure and throw multi-punch combinations. I’m expecting a hard fight and I have no doubt that I’ll handle it.”

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“It’s a blessing to have so much experience in my family and in my corner. It feels like I have a cheat code to the sport.

“I just want to show everybody excellence. We’re going to bring out our skillset. He’s going to make me bring more tools out of my arsenal. I’m going to make sure it’s an action fight and keep my knockout streak going.

“Being in this position tells me that I’m climbing the ladder to be one of the greats. We’re taking it one step at a time. My ultimate goal is to be the undisputed champion.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“I’m really excited to be here for a great night in front of great fans. I’m looking forward to an amazing night on Saturday. I know that we’re going to give the fans an exciting show.

“You can expect a great show, because the fans deserve it. I’m going to give my best and win. It’s going to be a hell of a fight.

“This is going to be an interesting clash of styles. Gary is a knockout artist and he’s going to try to do his thing and not let me box how I normally do. I’m going to use the ring and win the way that I know how to win.”

CARLOS ADAMES

“I have no equal and I have no rival in this division. Whoever wants to come after me, go ahead. I want to face them just as much as they want to face me. I don’t fear anyone.

“My conviction is what separates me from everybody in this division. They all know that I want to face them and that I’m not running from anyone.

“Gausha should be a strong opponent and I’m excited about it, because it’ll make for a great fight for the fans.”

TERRELL GAUSHA

“A win on Saturday means everything. I’m with the best team in the world and it’s a blessing to have this opportunity.

“We’ve done everything in the gym we had to. We’re ready. We’re steppers. That’s what we do. We step when it’s time to step.

“There are a lot of ups and downs in boxing and I’ve just stayed focused, stayed the course, stayed training, kept my head down and remained humble. Now I’m ready to get my title on Saturday night.

“Fans can expect me to leave everything in the ring and come out with that belt. Now is my time. I’m not worried about anything. I’m focused.”

ELIJAH GARCIA

“I feel good and I feel ready. I had more time to prepare and I know it’s gonna be a tough fight. We’re definitely ready.

“It’s a blessing to be on another big card. I trained hard and I feel like I earned it. I’m just taking it one step at a time.

“Hopefully by the end of the year I can call myself a world champion. That’s what I’m aiming for. Last year was great, but that’s in the past.”

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. MARTIN & BENAVIDEZ VS. GVOZDYK

Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk will see popular superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstro” Benavidez co-headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Headlining the show is the undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The pay-per-view will also see undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The MGM Grand Garden Arena hosted its premiere boxing event in January 1994 and, over its 30-year history, the venue has become synonymous with the sport’s biggest fight nights. Fight fans have watched champions ranging from George Foreman and Julio Cesar Chavez to Roy Jones and Shane Mosley step in the ring and put on a championship display of skill. Epic battles including Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Holyfield vs. Tyson II, Pacquiao vs. Marquez IV, multiple Barrera vs. Morales title fights, and Mayweather vs. Canelo, among others, led all boxers to want to fight at the legendary Grand Garden Arena. The June 15 event will mark a celebration of the venue’s storied history as boxing’s next chapter unfolds with these two high-stakes showdowns.

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

BROOKLYN – September 13, 2022 – Two exciting high-stakes showdowns have been added to the jam-packed four-fight FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event headlined by the return of former WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder as he takes top-rated Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius on Saturday, October 15 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The telecast will feature undefeated Cuban sensation Frank Sanchez battling Puerto Rican Olympian Carlos Negron in a 10-round heavyweight duel, while top bantamweight contenders Gary Antonio Russell and Emmanuel Rodriguez meet in a 12-round rematch opening the pay-per-view telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

In the co-feature, former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb “Sweet Hands” Plant faces two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell in a WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator between 168-pound rivals.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase in-person at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

An amateur standout from his native Cuba, Sánchez (20-0, 13 KOs) now trains in California with renowned trainer Joe Goossen. The 30-year-old has remained busy on his rise up the heavyweight rankings, scoring three victories in 2020 as he earned a unanimous decision over Joey Dawejko and stopped Brian Howard and Julian Fernandez. Sanchez caught boxing fan’s attention when he scored a career-best win in October 2021, dropping the previously unbeaten Efe Ajagba on his way to a unanimous decision victory. Sanchez kicked off the New Year with a 10-round decision triumph against Christian Hammer in his last fight.

“Carlos Negron is a dangerous opponent, but I will be ready for whatever he brings. I intend to look for a knockout against Negron to demonstrate to boxing fans that I am both a boxer and a puncher,’’ said Sanchez. “I feel I am the best heavyweight in the world and October 15 will bring me one step closer to the very important goal of becoming mandatory contender for a world title opportunity in 2023.’’

The 2008 Puerto Rican Olympian Negron (25-3, 20 KOs) was scheduled to meet Sanchez on January 1 but had to withdraw from the fight after testing positive for COVID-19. Negron rides a five-fight winning streak into the match against Sanchez, including four wins by stoppage. The 34-year-old bounced back from defeats to Dominic Breazeale and Brian Howard to put together his win streak, which includes a March 2020 knockout over previously unbeaten Robert Alfonso. He scored an eight round unanimous decision over Scott Alexander in his last fight in May 2021. Negron has fought professionally since 2009 and now lives in Miami where he trains alongside Luis Ortiz.

“I know Frank, and I’ve never been a fighter to call any other fighters out or speak of any other boxer, so I don’t know why he asked to fight me,” said Negron. “When my coach told me he wanted to fight me, I didn’t take it personally. I took it like a challenge. It gave me incredible motivation, and now I want to fight him. Let’s see what I can do against good competition. I have always done my best against better opponents. So come October 15, let’s see who’s the better man.”

The 29-year-old Russell (19-0, 12 KOs) originally met the former champion Rodriguez in August 2021, but an accidental clash of heads ended the fight as a no-contest before the first round was completed. The middle brother between WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne, Russell returned to the ring after the Rodriguez bout to earn a decision victory over Alexis Santiago in November 2021. Fighting out of Capitol Heights, Maryland, Russell also owns a decision victory over former world champion Juan Carlos Payano in December 2020.

“I’m glad that Emmanuel and I will get our chance to have a redo on October 15,” said Russell. “Nothing has changed as far as my objective. I’m coming into the ring at Barclays Center to do whatever I have to do in order to finish this fight victorious.”

Fighting out of Manati, Puerto Rico, Rodríguez (20-2, 13 KOs) has also added a victory since his first clash with Russell, knocking out Roberto Sanchez Cantu in March. The 30-year-old won the IBF Bantamweight World Title with a unanimous decision victory over Paul Butler in 2018 and successfully defended it against then-unbeaten Jason Moloney. Rodríguez went on to lose the title to unbeaten champion Naoya Inoue in their May 2019 title bout.

“I’ve been training in Mexico for a long time and away from my family so that I can focus on this fight that will define my future,” said Rodriguez. “Russell is a good fighter who has been avoided throughout his career, but I’ve come to show that I’m on another level. I will win hands down and be back on top of the bantamweight division. On October 15, he’s going to realize that he’s not on my level.”

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Accustomed to boxing’s ups and downs, Mexican bantamweight contender Alejandro “Peque” Santiago says he’s not going to let his nationally televised and highly controversial majority-decision loss to Gary Antonio Russell last Saturday night (November 27) slow him down.

With the Showtime cameras rolling at Park MGM’s Dolby Live in Las Vegas, Santiago (24-3-5, 13 KOs) and Russell fought a grueling all-out war for ten rounds with many feeling Santiago’s pressuring style had outshined the undefeated Russell’s speed after 10 intense rounds.

However, once again it was not to be for the hard-luck Santiago, as Russell was given the nod via a questionable majority-decision. Judges Steve Morrow and Benoit Roussel scored Russell a 96-94 winner, while Judge Lisa Giampa scored the contest a draw at 95-95.

The “victim” of several controversial draws against top fighters in high-profile fights, including one particularly dubious draw against IBF Super Flyweight Champion Jerwin Ancajas in 2018, 25-year-old Santiago, from Tijuana, Baja California, says he’s not shocked or disheartened by the loss to Russell.

“I wasn’t shocked because I have been here before,” explained Santiago, post-fight. “My team had warned me that the closer rounds will go to Russell because he is the house fighter. When my promoter Paco Damian calls me for an opportunity like this, I never say no. I embrace the opportunity and I don’t care if I have to go and fight my opponents in their backyard. I mean, look at my record I have five draws, I believe I won all those fights including the Jerwin Ancajas world title fight.”

In fact, the realistic Santiago surprisingly blames himself for the setback.

“I don’t like to use the term robbed,” said Santiago. “In my opinion, I thought I won 6 of the 10 rounds. It was a very close fight and there is no one here to blame but me. I blame myself because it took me the first couple of rounds to make adjustments and follow our game plan.”

Despite the disappointment, Santiago says his strong performance against Russell, a celebrated 2016 U.S. Olympian, negates any career damage he may suffer.

“I would love the opportunity to fight Russell again, I think it was a great fight and I’m sure many people will love to watch us do it again. And this time, I would like it to be for a title eliminator that will give the winner the opportunity to fight for a world title. But if Russell doesn’t want another war that I will bring, we move on. My career has been defined by people underestimating me and paying the price for their mistake. I’ll be back.”

Stephen Fulton retained the WBO and captured the WBC Super Bantamweight titles with a 12-round majority decision over Brandon Figueroa in a Fight of the Year Candidate in a battle of undefeated champions at The Park Theater in Las Vegas.

The stood toe-to-toe for much of the fight with Figueroa pushing the action and Fulton countering effectively. Not much separated the two combatants as the waged a savage war that thrilled the crowd in attendance as well as viewing audience on SHOWTIME. Fulton seemed to rally in the later rounds and picked up the win by scores of 116-112 twice and 114-114.

Fulton, 121.75 lbs of Philadelphia is 20-0. Figueroa, 121.75 lbs of Weslaco, TX is 22-1-1.

Aleem Decisions Baez

Raeese Aleem kept his perfect record intact with a 10-round majority decision over Eduardo Baez in a super bantamweight bout.

In round six, Baez was cut on the forehead by an accidental headbutt.

Aleem, 121.75 lbs of Muskegon, MI won by scores of 98-92, 96-94 and 95-95 and is now 19-0. Baez, 121.5 lbs of Mexicali, MEX is 19-2-2.

Russell Decisions Santiago

Gary Antonio Russell remains undefeated with a 12-round majority decision over Alejandro Santiago in a bantamweight contest.

Russell, 117.5 lbs of Capitol Heights, Maryland won by scores of 96-94 twice and 96-94 and is now 19-0. Santiago, 118 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 24-3-5.

LAS VEGAS (September 2, 2021) – Undefeated 122-pound world champions will go toe-to-toe as WBC champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa and WBO champion Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. meet in the SHOWTIME main event Saturday, September 18 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will include undefeated super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem battling Mexico’s Eduardo Baez in the 10-round co-main event. Opening the telecast, unbeaten rising bantamweight contender Gary Antonio Russell takes on Mexico’s Alejandro Barrios in a 10-round showdown.

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

“This night of high-stakes action is headlined by two undefeated young stars in one of the most anticipated fights of the year.” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The winner of this fight will not only hold the mantle as the division’s best but will have a case as one of the top pound-for-pound rising stars in the sport. With Ra’eese Aleem and Gary Antonio Russell also on the card, the future of the sport takes centerstage on September 18.”

The three-fight boxing event will open SHOWTIME’s combat sports doubleheader on September 18. Immediately following the main event from Las Vegas, BELLATOR MMA will air live from San Jose, Calif., with a three-fight event headlined by light heavyweight contenders Phil Davis and Yoel Romero.

Figueroa vs. Fulton has loomed as a potential showdown for several years prior to the two unbeaten fighters joining the world championship ranks with career-best performances in 2021. Fulton struck first, dominating then-unbeaten Angelo Leo to capture the WBO title in January, while Figueroa made his own statement in stopping two-division champion Luis Nery to capture the WBC strap in May.

The 24-year-old Figueroa (22-0-1, 17 KOs) used his youth and relentless pressure to become the first person to defeat Nery in their championship clash on SHOWTIME. Figueroa’s body attack was the difference, as he was able to stand up against Nery’s offense and eventually overwhelm him to earn the knockout. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Figueroa added to his family’s legacy in capturing the world title, joining his brother Omar Figueroa who previously held the lightweight world championship. Figueroa took down a slew of veteran contenders on his way to championship status, knocking out Moises Flores, Oscar Escandon and Damien Vazquez on his ascent.

“We train hard for every fight and make sure we go 110% come fight night,” said Figueroa. “I expect Fulton to be flashy and slick with his movements, and perhaps he’ll want to mix it up a little as well, so we’re ready for anything. People know I always come to fight and with this being my second back-to-back fight against another undefeated world champion it makes this an exciting fight on paper and it should be even more exciting to see it live on September 18.”

Born and raised in West Philadelphia, Pa., Fulton (19-0, 8 KOs) faced impressive competition while rising up the 122-pound rankings to earn the opportunity that eventually saw him become world champion on SHOWTIME by besting Leo. In his last 13 professional fights, the 27-year-old has beaten eight previously undefeated fighters, including Leo, Josh Greer, Arnold Khegai, Adam Lopez and Luis Saul Rosario. Trained in his hometown by coach Wahid Rahim, Fulton has displayed sublime boxing skills that have allowed him to dominate opponents of varying styles and control fights from start to finish.

“We will have a new king of the division on a historic day,” said Fulton. “Training camp has been great, rough and dirty. I know where I need to be for this fight and I’m right there not running away from it. History will be made September 18 on Mexican Independence Day weekend in Las Vegas. Let’s celebrate with a bang!”

Owning a top-10 ranking at 122-pounds from multiple sanctioning bodies, Aleem (18-0, 12 KOs) put on the most impressive performance of his career in January to capture the interim WBA title on SHOWTIME. Aleem dominated in a battle of unbeatens, dropping Victor Pasillas four times before eventually stopping him in round 11. Raised in Michigan and training out of Las Vegas, Nev., Aleem, 31, has stopped his past seven opponents inside the distance.

“It’s great to be back fighting on SHOWTIME,” said Aleem. “I’ve been waiting patiently, working hard in the gym, and now it’s go time. Eduardo Baez is a good fighter who is trying to make a name for himself, but he’s standing in my way of becoming world champion, and I’m going to take him out. I’m on a mission to prove I’m the king of the super bantamweight division, and the journey continues on September 18.”

The 26-year-old Baez (19-1-2, 6 KOs) will look to earn a career-best victory and build on back-to-back triumphs over previously unbeaten fighters when he takes on Aleem on September 18. Originally from Baja California, Mexico, Baez now fights out of Calexico, California as he nears his second stateside outing. Baez most recently won a decision over Abimael Ortiz in March, after his U.S. debut saw him defeat Narek Abgaryan in his U.S. debut in December 2020.

“I can’t wait for this opportunity against Ra’eese Aleem,” said Baez. “Success is the most precious treasure, the more you are willing to pay, the more valuable the prize will be. I will win this fight and we will all scream ‘viva Mexico!’”

The middle brother between WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne, Antonio Russell (18-0, 12 KOs) announced his arrival amongst the bantamweight division contenders with a technical decision over former world champion Juan Carlos Payano in December 2020 on SHOWTIME. The 28-year-old from Capitol Heights, Md. turned pro in 2015 after an impressive amateur career. After four wins in 2019, Russell kicked off 2020 defeating Jesus Martinez in February. Russell returns to action after his August 14 fight against former champion Emmanuel Rodriguez ended in a no-decision in round one due to a clash of heads.

“I’m excited to be back after I trained so hard for my last fight before it ended early,” said Russell. “Now, I’m just taking that same fight energy that I had for Emmanuel Rodriguez and bringing it on September 18 for my new opponent.”

The 25-year-old Barrios (24-2-5, 13 KOs) has not been beaten since 2014, a streak spanning 20 fights. Representing his native Tijuana, Mexico, Barrios has won his last eight contests since a 2018 draw against Jerwin Ancajas in a 115-pound title bout. After defeating Erick Hernandez and Willibaldo Garcia in 2020, Barrios knocked out Juan Gabriel Medina to begin his 2021. In addition to the draw against Ancajas, Barrios has fought then unbeaten Jose Martinez-Mercado to a draw twice while also earning the same result against then undefeated Antonio Nieves.

“I want to thank my whole team and everyone else who made this fight possible,” said Barrios. “It has been a long road for me. I’ve been looking for another title fight or a rematch with Ancajas, ever since our draw. We decided to move up to 118-pounds and I’ve just remained focused and worked hard for the next opportunity. Now I get to share the ring with a great and talented fighter in Gary Antonio Russell. On September 18, I will leave everything in that ring, put on a great fight for all boxing fans and leave victorious.”

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John Riel Casimero retained the WBO Bantamweight Title with a 12-round split decision over Guillermo Rigondeaux in a fight void of action at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

Casimero tried to make the fight, but Rigondeaux just backpaddled for most of the fight and less than 90 punches were landed between the two fighters.

Rigondeaux landed 44 of 221 punches; Casimero was 47 of 297.

Casimero, 118 lbs of the Philippines won by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 while Rigondeaux took a card 115-113.

Casimero is 31-4. Rigondeaux, 117.4 lbs of Cubs is 20-2.

JOHN RIEL CASIMERO

“I’m excited to get the win. Rigondeaux is a good boxer and two-time Olympic gold medalist. I was worried, because he said he wouldn’t run, but he ran the whole time. I thought I got the knockdown in the first round too.

“My expectations were for a knockout. Me and all my fans wanted that. I did my best to knock him out, but he was just running and not fighting.

“I had a three-fight plan. First was Rigondeaux, and I beat him. Next is Nonito Donaire and then finally Naoya Inoue.”

GUILLERMO RIGONDEAUX

“Nobody wants to fight with me because I frustrate them in the ring. I landed the punches that I needed to in order to win the fight tonight. This is how I win. 

“I have these God-given skills and this is the way I display them. I’m a unique fighter. It’s my style and it’s the only one I know. 

“You can see I’m still better than anyone else in the light weight classes and I’m going to keep fighting.”

Russell and Rodriguez ends in a no-contest

Gary Antonio Russell and Emmanuel Rodriguez ended in a no-contest after a headbutt opened up a bad cut on Rodriguez.

GARY ANTONIO RUSSELL

“It happens. I was looking to establish my jab and I tried to set up a hook, and he came in at the same time. It’s very disappointing. 

“I was actually in camp for about four months. I prepared great for this fight. I was really looking to broadcast my talents and show everyone what’s in my arsenal. Unfortunately the headbutt happened. 

“Of course I would like to come right back. If he can do it, I want to get right back in there with Rodriguez.”

EMMANUEL RODRIGUEZ

“I feel okay. I’m a little frustrated after putting in all this work for the fight to end so quickly with nothing happening. 

“With the headbutt, maybe if there was no blood, we would have been able to continue. But once I saw all the blood, I knew it was over. 

“I don’t want to lose the condition that I’m in. I prepared really hard for this fight. As soon as the injury is fixed, I’ll be back in the ring and I’d like to fight Russell again.”

Warren Takes out Vazquez in 2

Former world champion Rau’She Warren took out Damien Vazquez in round two of their 10-round bantamweight bout.

In round one, Warren dropped Vazquez with a right hook. Vazquez was not up for long as seconds later, he was sent to the deck for a second time from another right hook. In round two, Warren dropped Vazquez again with a perfect straight right to the jaw and the fight was stopped at 2:18

Warren, 117.4 lbs of Cincinnati, OH is 21-3 with five knockouts. Vazquez, 117.2 lbs of Las Vegas is 16-3.

Rau’shee Warren

“I was trying to show them something different this time around. I have always had the power but this training camp was very different. I was sitting on my punches and working on something different. It worked in the ring.

“I always knew I had that power and I always knew I had that speed. It’s just about taking your time in the ring and letting them come. When I saw the opportunity, I went for it.

“Next fight is a title fight. I am the number one contender for the WBA. I want to thank Al Haymon for putting me in this position. I want to thank my team for pushing me. They know what kind of fighter I am. I guess these next few years, I am going to be champion. Next fight I am grabbing that title. Maybe I will fight the winner of the main event tonight (Rigondeaux vs. Casimero).”

“I proved tonight that I’m ready for a big fight. Now it’s back home and back to the gym and back to the drawing board.

“My corner told me to slow down in the second round and just let it come. I was just trying to let him get comfortable and as soon as I did that I caught him with the left hand.”

In a non-televised bout, Brandun Lee from La Quinta, Calif., improved to 23-0 with 21 KOs in his California debut as he knocked out Ezequiel Fernandez (28-5-1, 3 KOs) three times in the opening round. “Of course it was good, but could have been better,” said Lee whose fight was called off at 1:40 of the first round. “There’s always room to improve but at the end of the day we got the job done. I’ve been putting dudes to sleep so you’re right, it’s only right for me to step up the competition and go to world-class SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING.”

CARSON, CALIF. (July 15, 2021) – Two-division world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux will face bantamweight world champion John Riel Casimero for his WBO belt onSaturday, August 14 live on SHOWTIME headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also see rising unbeaten contender Antonio Russell face the toughest test of his career in former world champion Emmanuel Rodríguez as they vie for the WBA Interim Bantamweight Title in the co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, former world champion Rau’shee Warren duels Damien Vázquez in a 10-round bantamweight bout.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

“Guillermo Rigondeaux is one of the most skilled fighters in all of boxing and he will seek to add to his resume against the exciting three-division champion and reigning 118-pound titlist John Riel Casimero,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “These are two fighters who have accomplished a lot in the sport, but each can elevate themselves to new heights with a victory on August 14. In the co-main event, Antonio Russell looks to announce himself as the next Russell brother in line for a world title, against the sturdiest test of his career in Emmanuel Rodríguez. Opening up the night of bantamweight duels, Rau’shee Warren can step closer to regaining a bantamweight championship when he faces Damien Vázquez. These three fights will have huge implications on the future of the bantamweight division, which always provides great action for the fans.”

A longtime champion of the 122-pound division, Rigondeaux (20-1, 13 KOs) moved down in weight and captured a WBA bantamweight title against Liborio Solis in February 2020 on SHOWTIME. Since turning professional in 2009 after one of the best amateur careers in history, Rigondeaux has showcased masterful technical skills that made him a unified super bantamweight world champion and perennial member of the pound-for-pound list. A two-time Olympic gold medalist for his native Cuba, Rigondeaux made his name with victories over the likes of Nonito Donaire, Rico Ramos and Joseph Agbeko. 

“This is a big fight for me and my team because we have a chance to win that WBO title,” said Rigondeaux. “Fighting on SHOWTIME once again is going to be fun and I’m grateful for the opportunity. Although I’ve been out of the ring for well over a year, I’m still in great shape and have plans to ruin Casimero’s dreams. I know he has a lot of power, but he’s fighting a man with excellent boxing skills and a high ring IQ. I’m going to box circles around Casimero and show him what ‘El Chacal’ is all about.  My trainer Ronnie Shields, and I have been working on some new tricks, so don’t be surprised if I knock him out.”

The 32-year-old Casimero (30-4, 21 KOs) of Ormoc City, Leyte, Philippines will make his second title defense in this August 14 matchup, having successfully defended it for the first time by knocking out Duke Micah in September 2020. Casimero trains in Las Vegas and originally won the title with an impressive third-round stoppage of Zolani Tete in November 2019. The three-division champion had previously captured titles at flyweight and light flyweight in a career that dates back to 2007. This will be his third career fight in the U.S. and his second to take place at Dignity Health Sports Park.

“I am very excited to be back on SHOWTIME and fighting in Southern California where a lot of Filipino fans can come see me fight,” said Casimero. “I look forward to defending my title against Guillermo Rigondeaux. Rigondeaux is known to a lot of Filipino fans for beating my fellow countryman Nonito Donaire . I will show the boxing world how to beat Rigondeaux and send him into retirement once and for all.”

The middle brother between WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne, Antonio Russell (18-0, 12 KOs) announced his arrival amongst the bantamweight division contenders with a technical decision over former world champion Juan Carlos Payano in December 2020 on SHOWTIME. The 28-year-old from Capitol Heights, Md. turned pro in 2015 after an impressive amateur career. After four wins in 2019, Russell kicked off 2020 defeating Jesus Martinez in February.

“I’m very excited for this fight on August 14 on SHOWTIME,” said Russell. “I’ve put in the work and I’m always ready to fight, no matter when the call comes. I’m so focused right now. Rodriguez is the only thing on my mind and I’m ready to put on a show.”

The 28-year-old Rodríguez (19-2, 12 KOs) returns to action after dropping a controversial split-decision to Reymart Gaballo last December on SHOWTIME. Fighting out of Manati, Puerto Rico, Rodríguez won the IBF Bantamweight World Title with a unanimous decision victory over Paul Butler in 2018 and successfully defended it against then-unbeaten Jason Moloney. Rodríguez went on to lose the title to unbeaten champion Naoya Inoue in their May 2019 title bout.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring for this fight,” said Rodríguez. “Everyone knows what happened in my last fight against Gaballo. This time, I’m not leaving it up to the judges. I’m going for the knockout and a statement victory.”

Warren (18-3, 4 KOs) bounced back from a close decision loss in a world title fight against then unbeaten former champion Nordine Oubaali in January 2019 by earning decisions over Gilberto Mendoza and Sharone Carter. A southpaw from Cincinnati, Ohio, Warren won the WBA Bantamweight World Championship with a majority decision over Juan Carlos Payano in 2016 and lost the title the next year to Zhanat Zhakiyanov by split-decision. The 34-year-old became the first three-time Olympic boxer from the U.S. when he qualified for consecutive Olympic teams in 2004, 2008 and 2012.

“Vázquez is not the type of fighter that can compete with me,” said Warren. “When they sent me the name, I looked at one of his fights and 10 seconds was all I needed to see. I really want to face Rigondeaux, but I’m going to handle this and I’m going to wait until I get who I want to get. I’ve been sparring with a lot of top amateurs and that’s been keeping me sharp. They throw punches in bunches and they’re keeping me on my toes heading into August 14.”

The 24-year-old southpaw Vázquez (15-2-1, 7 KOs) was born in Thornton, Col. and now fights out of Las Vegas. The younger brother of former two-time champion Israel Vázquez, he most recently lost to super bantamweight champion Brandon Figueroa last September after having previously scored a stoppage win over Alejandro Moreno in February of 2020. Vázquez turned pro in 2013 and reeled off 14 consecutive wins to begin his career in the paid ranks.

“This is a great opportunity for me,” said Vázquez. “I turned pro at sixteen-years-old, so I took a much needed break after the Brandon Figueroa fight. Now I’m back and more ready than ever. I’m back fighting at bantamweight and that’s for sure the best weight for me going forward. I’m ready to show the world what I’m capable of. This is going to be a war. Warren is a world class fighter, but if he thinks this is an easy fight, then he is totally mistaken and I’ll prove it on August 14.”

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

Reymart Gaballo pounded out a 12-round split decision over Emmanuel Rodriguez to win the WBC Interim Bantamweight title at the Mohegan Sun Resort in Uncasville, CT

In round three, Rodriguez had blood from the bridge of his nose.

Rodriguez landed 109 of 372 punches; Gaballo was 93 of 520

Gaballo, 117.6 lbs of General Santos City, PHL won by scores of 116-112, 115-113 while Rodriguez won a card 118-110. Gaballo is now 24-0. Rodriguez is 19-2.

REYMART GABALLO

“I am very happy and blessed to win this belt. I was always moving forward and controlling the pace, so I thought it was a close fight that either of us could have won.

“I’m waiting for my team to tell me what they have planned for me next. I’m going to keep training hard so I’m always ready for the opportunity when it comes.

“I’m going to go back to the Philippines and spend time with my family. I’ve been in Miami training for eight months so I’m excited to go home.”

EMMANUEL RODRIGUEZ

“It was a good fight, but he only won about two or three rounds. There were two punches from me for every punch he landed. He knows he lost. Everyone knows we won.

“My team told me to go out and keep boxing him in the late rounds. We knew he needed a knockout in the twelfth round. That was his only chance to win.”

Ennis and Van Heerden Fight to No-Contest

Jaron Ennis and Chris Van Heerden fought to a no-contest when Van Heerden suffered a gruesome cut in round one of their 12-round welterweight bout.

Ennis was battering Van Heerden all over the ring and looked to be on his way to an early stoppage when the two clashed heads that opened up a horrible cut on the forehead of Van Heerden. The fight was stopped at 2:39.

Ennis, 146 lbs of Philadelphia is 26-0-1 NC; Van Heerden, 146.9 lbs of Santa Monica, CA is 28-2-1-1.

“My head is good. I don’t know quite what to say, but I feel good.

“Before the headbutt I had already cut him. I felt strong. I knew he was ready to go. I feel like I’m getting better and better. Now I’ll just get back in the gym.

“As you could see from the first round, I was handling him easily. I feel like everyone is still sleeping on me, but I’m ready for anyone. Bring on the big names.

“At the end of the day it’s boxing and you have to live with it when stuff like this happens. I’m ready to step up against even better competition than Chris van Heerden.

“I was putting it on him and I was getting ready to dig to the body and he came right at me and we headbutted.

“I could get back in the ring tomorrow. I’m ready. I’m just disappointed right now. Anybody in the top five, I’m ready for them. I’m hungry and it’s my time in 2021. I will become world champion.”

Russell defeats Payano by Technical Decision

Gary Antonio Russell remained perfect as he won a technical decision over Juan Carlos Payano when Payano could not continue due to an accidental head butt one second into round seven of their scheduled 10-roound bantamweight fight

In round six, Payano was bleeding from over his right eye. It was ruled an accidental headbutt and the fight was stopped just as the 7th bell rang.

Russell landed 86 of 243 punches; Payano was 58 of 268.

Russell, 119 lbs of Capitol Heights. MD won by scores of 59-55 twice and 58-56 and is now 18-0. Payano, 119 lbs of Le Vega, DR is 21-5.

GARY RUSSELL JR., BROTHER OF GARY ANTONIO RUSSELL

“We are definitely our worst critics so I don’t think this was his best performance. But with the situation that’s at hand and the passing of our younger brother. We just wanted to take this energy and focus it on something productive. I didn’t know how Antonio would be able to handle it going into the fight but I did know that Payano was going to need to kill him to beat him in that ring tonight.

“We were starting to step on the gas. The main thing when a guy gets dirty like that is to be technical. His punch placement was precise. His punch selection was excellent. We touched the body real well. We hurt him and we knew we had the power to keep hurting him.

“I know for a fact that my younger brother Antonio wants to dedicate this fight to our younger brother who just passed away. There’s a lot of emotions. To be able to harness it all is bigger than boxing. Boxing is something we love to do but this is a very difficult time for our family.

Brandun Lee stopped Dakota Linger in round three of a scheduled 10-round welterweight bout.

Lee dominated the fight and landed several hard punches when the fight was stopped at 1:17 of round three.

Lee, 143 lbs of Yuba, CA is 21-0 with 19 knockouts. Linger, 142 lbs of Buckhannon, WV is 12-5-2.

Benjamin Whitaker won eight-round majority decision over previously undefeated Zsolt Daranyi in a junior middleweight bout.

Whittaker, 150 lbs of San Antonio, TX won by scores of 79-73, 77-75 and 76-75 and is now 15-4. Daranyi, 150.2 lbs of Budapest, HUN is 15-1.

NEW YORK – December 17, 2020 – Former bantamweight world champion Emmanuel Rodríguez and unbeaten rising contender Reymart Gaballo shared thoughts on their showdown for the vacant interim WBC Bantamweight World Championship Thursday before they meet in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION this Saturday, December 19 in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Also previewing their respective matchups taking place on the telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT were welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis and veteran contender Chris van Heerden, who meetin the 12-round co-main event, plus unbeaten bantamweight Antonio Russell and former world champion Juan Carlos Payano, who kick off the telecastin a 10-round duel.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and takes place from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., Rodríguez vs. Gaballo is promoted in association with Warriors Boxing and Fresh Productions. Ennis vs. Van Heerden is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

EMMANUEL RODRIGUEZ

“I feel great right now. I’m physically and mentally in great shape and ready for whatever comes Saturday night.

“My training camp and my preparations for the fight really haven’t been impacted much with the change in opponents. They are similar fighters. The only difference is that Gaballo is younger and Nonito is more experienced. But it’s still a tough opponent in front of me that I’ll be ready for.

“I don’t believe that there’s much difference between Nonito and Gaballo. Gaballo tends to open up a little bit more than Nonito does, so it’s easier to connect on him. He is probably a little more aggressive than Nonito and his defense isn’t as good. I think Nonito would have been a tougher fight than Gaballo but I am not taking this fight lightly.

“We’re prepared for whatever comes. If it goes 12 rounds, I’m ready for all 12. He’s going to have his game plan and we’re going to have ours, and I’m confident that I’m going to come away with the win.”

REYMART GABALLO

“I’m so focused on this fight. It’s been a year and a week since my last fight so I’ve just been in the gym, even when I didn’t have a fight in place. I’m always in shape and training at all times.

“When they said I could be the replacement for Nonito Donaire, I did not hesitate to say yes. I was supposed to fight Juan Carlos Payano on August 1, but that fight was cancelled. Then it was Jose Velasquez before they asked me to fight Rodriguez.

“Rodriguez is a good fighter and this is a good fight for us. My team has been like a family to me and it makes me look forward to staying in the gym and working hard for them.

“There are some really good bantamweights, and I want to be considered one of the best. You have Naoya Inoue, Nonito Donaire and John Riel Casimero. Those are the guys I envision fighting in the future. I know them and have sparred with them so I’m excited to be included in that group of names.”

JARON ENNIS

“I’ve always had this power ever since I was in the amateurs. I don’t look for the knockouts, I just go in there and have fun and be the best version of me. I listen to what my Dad says and follow the game plan and the game plan nine times out of ten results in a knockout.

“I’m quiet outside of the ring, but inside the ring, I’m a whole different person. When I step in there, something inside of me changes. I don’t know what it is. You have to have the flair, the flashiness, the speed, the power. You have to have the whole package so you can build a great fanbase and I think I have the whole package.

“I feel like Thomas Dulorme had the bigger name. More people know him because he fought more top guys. But Chris van Heerden has a better record so I think it’s even, all things considered. I know he’s fought Spence but I’m not worried about comparing my performance to how Spence did. I’ll let the media and the fans do that. I’m going to go in there, have my fun, and I’m confident that I will get the win and get the knockout.

“After I put on another show Saturday, I feel like some guys are probably going to shy away from me. But at the same time, some guys may want to have a fight with me because they see I’m starting to become a big attraction and a big draw. I’m up there in the rankings so that’s why I respect van Heerden for taking this fight. After Dulorme dropped out, he was the only one who wanted to take the fight.

“Without looking past van Heerden this Saturday, I feel like I’ve been ready for the top fights since I’ve been about 18-0. We’ve been trying to get them but now I feel like I’m getting closer and closer. After I make a big statement on Saturday, I believe I’ll be able to get those big name fights. I’m at the door and in 2021 I’m knocking down the door.”

CHRIS VAN HEERDEN

“Jaron Ennis is clearly a ‘hot’ name right now, but he’s been very untested. I’m smart enough to know what works and what doesn’t in the ring and I won’t make the mistakes that he’s been able to capitalize on with other opponents.

“It only seems like I took this fight at the last minute but I’ve been training very hard for the last few months in Los Angeles because my manager Peter Kahn had a couple options brewing for me. I moved my camp to South Florida the last couple of weeks where I got excellent sparring with young lions Xander Zayas and DeMichael Harris.”

“I’m very thankful to SHOWTIME and Premier Boxing Champions for providing me with this opportunity. Come Saturday night, I’ll be well prepared for victory and am very much looking forward to being in the ring with Jaron Ennis.”

ANTONIO RUSSELL

“Payano has more experience than me. I haven’t been 12 rounds before but I have been 10 rounds and up to 14 rounds in the gym. But 12 rounds on a Saturday night is different. With no offense to him, I am more talented. He is the shorter guy and he will come after me to make it rough, so we are prepared for that.

“I took this fight on short notice but we stay in the gym. I was actually preparing to fight Emmanuel Rodriguez, who is fighting in the main event, so when I was sparring, I was preparing for a right-handed fighter. Then when it came down that Payano was my opponent, I had to find some southpaws to spar. Luckily my younger and older brother are both southpaws so I sparred with them a lot over the last three weeks.

“On Saturday night, my dad, my older brother Alan and the WBC Champion, Gary Jr., will be in my corner. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I feel good with any top opponent after this: Emmanuel Rodriguez, Nonito Donaire, Naoya Inoue, Guillermo Rigondeaux. As long as I have the time to prepare, I will get in there with anyone. That’s why I am in the sport of boxing, to fight the best.”

JUAN CARLOS PAYANO

“I believe that I’m a top-five fighter in this division. I always give my best and my best is still at a very high level. I feel that I belong in the best fights, regardless of the fact that I haven’t been a champion for a while, because I’ve been a champion before.

“Everybody knows what I bring to the table as a competitor. It’s up to Russell to prove that he belongs at this level and that it’s not just his family name.

“The Danny Roman fight was not that long ago and that type of conditioning doesn’t go away overnight. I didn’t take more than two weeks off after that fight. I am very excited to be fighting again on SHOWTIME which is becoming my second home.

“Russell is very talented but so am I. I have two Olympic tours, 480 amateur fights and I’ve fought the best in the division. You don’t do that without skills. Maybe today Russell’s skill is better now, but I have more experience. I will use my experience, skills and ring IQ, and hopefully we don’t get bad judging like we did against Danny Roman.

“I’ve almost fought Reymart Gaballo a few times. When I fought Mike Plania, it was actually supposed to be Gaballo. And then a couple other times I’ve been supposed to fight him. So I’ll be looking forward to watching his fight. I expect good things from him, and I’d love for him to win the title so that I can fight him for a meaningful outcome.”

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ABOUT RODRIGUEZ VS. GABALLO
Rodriguez vs. Gaballo will see former bantamweight world champion Emmanuel Rodríguez take on unbeaten former interim WBA bantamweight champion Reymart Gaballo for the vacant interim WBC Bantamweight World Championship in the main event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION
® Saturday, December 19 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The action-packed tripleheader will feature unbeaten welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis taking on his toughest opponent to date in veteran contender Chris van Heerden in a 12-round co-main event. Plus, unbeaten bantamweight Antonio Russell will face former world champion Juan Carlos Payano in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Rodríguez vs. Gaballo is promoted in association with Warriors Boxing and Fresh Productions. Ennis vs. Van Heerden is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

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

NEW YORK – December 11, 2020 – Former bantamweight world champion Emmanuel Rodríguez will take on unbeaten former interim WBA bantamweight champion Reymart Gaballo for the vacant interim WBC Bantamweight World Championship in the main event on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® Saturday, December 19 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The action-packed tripleheader will feature unbeaten welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis taking on his toughest opponent to date in veteran contender Chris Van Heerden in a 12-round co-main event for the vacant IBO welterweight title. Plus, unbeaten bantamweight Antonio Russell will face former world champion Juan Carlos Payano in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.

Non-televised undercard action will see rising prospect Brandun Lee battling Dakota Linger in a 10-round super lightweight attraction.

Nordine Oubaali and Nonito Donaire were originally set to meet for Oubaali’s WBC title, before the fighters tested positive for COVID-19, at which point the Rodríguez vs. Gaballo fight was made for the vacant interim title.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Rodríguez vs. Gaballo is promoted in association with Warriors Boxing and Fresh Productions. Ennis vs. Van Heerden is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

“Emmanuel Rodríguez will seek to grab a second bantamweight title on December 19, but will have a hungry and dangerous fighter in the unbeaten Reymart Gaballo standing in his way,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “With the vacant interim WBC title on the line, expect both fighters to leave it all in the ring in order to claim this belt. Adding in the always exciting Jaron Ennis against Chris Van Heerden, and an intriguing clash between Antonio Russell and Juan Carlos Payano, and December 19 shapes up to be a stacked night from start to finish live on SHOWTIME.”

The 28-year-old Rodríguez (19-1, 12 KOs) will look to capture a second bantamweight title with a victory on December 19. Fighting out of Manati, Puerto Rico, Rodríguez won the IBF Bantamweight World Title with a unanimous decision victory over Paul Butler in 2018 and successfully defended it against then-unbeaten Jason Moloney. Rodríguez was most recently stopped by unbeaten champion Naoya Inoue in their May 2019 title bout.

“This is a dream come true to have another chance to fight for the title,” said Rodríguez. “Even with the opponent change, I know it will be a tough challenge, but I’ve worked too hard and put in too much time in the gym to allow myself to lose this fight on December 19.”

Fighting out of General Santos City, Philippines, Gaballo (23-0, 20 KOs) enters this battle on a four-fight knockout streak and is unbeaten since turning pro in 2014. The 24-year-old’s most impressive victory came in March 2018, when he dropped then-undefeated Stephon Young on his way to a unanimous decision victory for the interim WBA bantamweight title. The number one bantamweight in the WBA rankings, who also is ranked 12th by the WBO, Gaballo will fight in the U.S. for the fourth time on December 19, with his most recent stateside triumph coming by third-round stoppage over Yeison Vargas in August 2019.

“I’m very excited for this fight,” said Gaballo. “I can’t wait to step into the ring again. I’ve been training in Miami since March and I’m planning to take advantage of this opportunity. I have a very tough opponent, but I’m going to show everyone what I can do and make sure I’m victorious.”

A native of boxing-rich Philadelphia, Pa., the supremely talented Ennis (26-0, 24 KOs) returns to the ring after stopping Juan Carlos Abreu in September on SHOWTIME. Ennis, 23, scored two emphatic knockout victories on ShoBox: The New Generation in 2018 before adding two more KO wins to his ledger in 2019. As his level of opposition has steadily increased since turning professional in 2016, the switch-hitter has scored 16 consecutive knockouts in addition to notching 16 knockdowns in his last six bouts.

“I can’t wait to get in there to make a big statement,” said Ennis. “I am ready to show out and put on a crushing performance. This is one step closer to the bigger names and my world title shot.”

Originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, Van Heerden (28-2-1,12 KOs) now lives and trains out of Santa Monica, Calif. The 33-year-old has won five-straight bouts leading into December 19, including 2019 wins over Aslanbek Kozaev and Mahonri Montes. Since his first professional defeat in 2010, Van Heerden has won 14 of his 15 fights, with his only blemish coming in 2015 against unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr.

“Sometimes it can take years for that one moment to come around and change your life,” said Van Heerden. “I have waited seven years for this opportunity to do my part and inspire my country of South Africa. Even with three weeks’ notice and coming in as the underdog, I am taking advantage of the opportunity that has been placed in front of me in these challenging times. I’m the veteran and will use my experience to win this fight. Fighters fight. We need to be prepared to step in when the opportunity presents itself and seize the moment. I’ll be ready on December 19.”

The middle brother between WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne, Antonio Russell (17-0, 12 KOs) will return to action looking to cement his contender status in the bantamweight division. The 27-year-old from Capitol Heights, Md. turned pro in 2015 after an impressive amateur career. After four wins in 2019, Russell kicked off 2020 defeating Jesus Martinez in February.

“I’m ready for this fight,” said Russell. “We have been in the gym training hard despite the pandemic. I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring. We know our opponent is coming to fight, and so are we. I’m prepared for whatever he brings.”

Born in the Dominican Republic but now living and fighting out of Miami, Fla. Payano (21-4, 9 KOs) will move back down to bantamweight, where he was previously champion, after his most recent outing saw him drop a competitive decision against former champion Danny Roman in September. Payano captured his title in 2014 by defeating Anselmo Moreno, before splitting a pair of memorable fights against Rau’shee Warren. Payano has come up short in recent years against top fighters Luis Nery and Naoya Inoue, while delivering Damien Vazquez his first career loss.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring before the end of the year,” said Payano. “I’m excited for the opportunity on SHOWTIME against an undefeated bantamweight. He’s never faced anyone like me, and I plan on testing him from the opening bell and giving the fans a great show. Uncasville, CT and Mohegan Sun is a first class city and venue. Thank you to PBC for giving me this opportunity.”

The 21-year-old Lee (20-0, 18 KOs) steps into the ring for the fourth time in 2020, having already delivered three knockout victories this year. Fighting out of La Quinta, Calif., Lee most recently dropped Jimmy Williams three times on his way to a first round knockout in October. Lee enters this fight having stopped his last 11 opponents inside of the distance.

Representing his native Buckhannon, W. Va., Linger (12-4-2, 8 KOs) has proved to be a durable challenge in his pro career that dates back to 2015. The 26-year-old was 2-2 from January 2019 to January 2020, with his losses coming by narrow majority decisions against Maurice Lee and Nelson Hampton. Most recently Linger lost an eight-round decision to unbeaten prospect Omar Juarez in September.

The telecast announce team is comprised of the most experienced and decorated boxing team on television. Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer is the host. Versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handles blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former junior middleweight world champion Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez. Two Hall of Famers round out the telecast team: boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer, and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The executive producer is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins, Jr. The director is Bob Dunphy, son of legendary Hall of Famer Don Dunphy. The pair has been guiding SHOWTIME Sports’ flagship series SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING since its inception in 1986.

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

ALLENTOWN, Pa. (January 29, 2020) – Undefeated 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell will take on Mexico’s José Marrufo in a 10-round super lightweight bout, while unbeaten bantamweight contender Antonio Russell steps in the ring for a 10-round fight highlighting the non-televised undercard Saturday, February 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from PPL Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

The card is headlined by the older brother of Gary Antuanne and Antonio, as undefeated WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Russell Jr. will defend his 126-pound crown against unbeaten mandatory challenger Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar live on SHOWTIME.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Liborio Solís battle for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title in the co-main event, plus Jaime Arboleda meeting Jayson Vélez in a 12-round bout WBA Super Featherweight Title eliminator in the opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Kings Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through www.pplcenter.com/events (direct link HERE).

Undercard action will also see super welterweight contender Jamontay “The Quiet Assassin” Clark (14-1-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round showdown against Mexico’s Vladimir Hernández (10-4, 6 KOs) and Springfield, Massachusetts native Anthony Velázquez (8-0, 8 KOs) in a six-round welterweight duel against Reading, Pennsylvania’s Kashon Hutchinson (7-5, 1 KO).

Rounding out the lineup is Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Torres (7-0, 3 KOs) taking on Mexico’s Edson Eduardo Neri (3-4, 2 KOs) for six rounds of bantamweight action, and a six-round battle of unbeaten welterweights as Bowie, Maryland’s Marlon Bolen (3-0, 2 KOs) squares off against Miami’s Osmel Mayorga (2-0, 1 KO).

The 23-year-old Gary Antuanne Russell (12-0, 12 KOs) has yet to allow an opponent to make it the distance against him since turning pro in 2017 following his run representing the U.S. at the 2016 Olympics. Russell added five more stoppage victories in 2019 and will be opposed by the 28-year-old Marrufo (12-9-2, 1 KO), who was born in Sonora, Mexico but fights out of Phoenix, Arizona. Marrufo split a pair of fights against then unbeaten Willie Shaw in 2019, defeating him in March before dropping a decision in the rematch in August.

Antonio Russell (16-0, 12 KOs) trains alongside his brothers Gary Antuanne and Gary Jr., with their father and head trainer Gary Russell Sr. in their Capitol Heights, Maryland hometown. The 26-year-old is unbeaten since turning pro in 2015 and picked up four wins in 2019, including his first 10-round fight, when he bested Francisco Pedroza in July, and most recently a first round stoppage of Samuel Gutierrez in November.

MINNEAPOLIS (June 19, 2019) – Former heavyweight world champion Charles Martin will square off against Daniel Martz in a 10-round heavyweight attraction as part of FS1 PBC Fight Night action and on FOX Deportes Saturday, July 13 from The Armory in Minneapolis.

FS1 PBC Fight Night begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by welterweight contender and Minneapolis-native Jamal “Shango” James battling former world champion Antonio DeMarco and also features a heavyweight clash between Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius and Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington, plus unbeaten prospect and 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas against Joshuah Hernández.

FS1 PBC Fight Night Prelims will feature Bryant Perrella (16-2, 13 KOs) taking on Domonique Dolton (22-2-1, 13 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight duel beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Warriors Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

The night of undercard attractions will also see 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell (9-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight matchup against Mexico’s Daniel Echeverría (21-8, 18 KOs) and unbeaten rising bantamweight Antonio Russell (14-0, 11 KOs) taking on Mexico’s Francisco Pedroza (12-8-2, 6 KOs) for a 10-round fight.

Minneapolis-native VeShawn Owens will also compete in an eight-round super welterweight bout against Mexico’s Juan Garces.

Rounding out the lineup are unbeaten prospect Money Powell IV in an eight-round super middleweight clash, exciting middleweight Marcos Hernández stepping in for an eight-round fight against Mexico’s Francisco Javier Castro and a six-round welterweight clash featuring Mexico’s Celso Ramírez.

Born in St. Louis but now fighting and training out of Southern California, Martin (26-2-1, 23 KOs) showed heavy hands in racking up 20 knockouts in 23 fights before he captured a heavyweight world title with a victory over Vyacheslav Glazkov in January 2016. The 33-year-old has won three of his last four fights, most recently winning by DQ against Gregory Corbin in March on FS1. He will face West Virginia’s Martz (18-6-1, 15 KOs), who has scored back-to-back knockout victories since losing to Luis Ortiz on FS1 in December 2017.

# # #

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @WarriorsBoxingProm, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook
at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

BROOKLYN, NY — With one hammer of a right hand, Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (41-0-1, 39KO) successfully defended his WBC heavyweight title for the ninth time, scoring a dramatic first round knockout over rival Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale (20-2, 18KO) in the main event of a SHOWTIME Championship Boxing broadcast in front of 13,181 paid fans at the Barclays Center.

It took the Alabama-native Wilder just 2:17 to explode his missile of a right hand on Breazeale’s chin, who immediately crumbled to the mat where he was counted out by referee Harvey Dock despite trying to get back on his feet.

Wilder, 33, never gave Breazeale a chance to get into the fight, as he caught “Trouble” midway through the first with an equilibrium shot that momentarily wobbled the challenger. Cautious not to get caught with another counter right, the 33 year-old Breazeale was reluctant to let his right hand go. Instead, the former US Olympian opted to throw pawing jabs, trying to create openings that would never appear.

The end came suddenly and conclusively when, after a separation by Dock, the 6’7” Wilder uncorked a right from hell that provided a definitive and conclusive ending to a multi-year feud.

It was a particularly contentious lead-up to the fight, as both fighter’s displayed genuine animosity toward each other. On Tuesday Wilder, who is co-trained by Jay Deas and former Olympic Gold Medalist and welterweight world champion Mark Breland, made headlines by suggesting he wouldn’t lose any sleep if he killed Breazeale in the ring. Their dislike stems from a 2017 altercation in an Alabama hotel lobby in which Breazeale claims he was attacked by Wilder and his brother, Marsellus. Breazeale and his then-coach Manny Robles sued Wilder, but had their lawsuit dismissed by a judge a few months later.

Prior to tonight, Wilder’s last fight was in December when he battled lineal heavyweight champion, Tyson Fury (27-0-1, 19KO), to a dramatic draw in a Fight of the Year candidate that saw Wilder send Fury to the mat twice, including once in the final round. Many thought Wilder, who weighed in at 223.¼ lbs for tonight’s fight — 11.¼ more than the Fury fight, would immediately run it back against the big Englishman, but after Fury surprised the boxing world by signing a promotional contract with Top Rank (ESPN+), boxing politics interfered and Wilder moved forward with a fight against his mandatory challenger, Breazeale.

Coming into the contest, the 6’7” Breazeale was riding a three fight TKO win streak since his suffering his only other career defeat, a 2016 loss in London’s O2 Arena to unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua (22-0, 21KO).

“Everything just came out of me tonight. I know it’s been a big build up,” Wilder said afterward. “There’s been a lot of animosity and a lot of words that were said and it just came out of me tonight. That’s what makes boxing so great.”

In reference to his pre-fight words, “I just told Breazeale I love him and of course I want to see him go home to his family. I know we say some things, but when you can fight a man and then you can hug him and kiss him, I wish the world was like that. We shake hands and we live to see another day and that’s what it’s all about.”

Breazeale also spoke after the fight, questioning the stoppage. “I think the ref stopped it a little early because I could hear him saying seven and eight, but that’s boxing,” he said. “He did his job and kept us safe for our next fight,” he then conceded.

“This was a situation where he landed the big right hand before I did,” he added. “I thought I was going to come on in the later rounds. I’ll be back and go for the heavyweight title again.”

Russell Stops Martinez In 5 To Retain Featherweight Title

In the co-main event, “Mr.” Gary Russell, Jr. (30-1, 18KO) successfully defended his WBC world featherweight title, scoring a 5th round TKO against former three-time world challenger Kiko Martinez (39-9-2, 28KO).

For a fighter who only fights once per year, Gary Russell Jr. surely doesn’t show any ring rust. The southpaw practitioner dissected the 33 year-old Martinez tonight from the opening bell, scoring at will while hardly tasting any leather himself.

It was clear from the early goings that Russell’s speed was going to be too much for Martinez to handle. Russell, 30, time and again got off first when he wanted to, and countered when he felt like.

In the third round Russell, who fights out of the Russell family-owned Enigma Boxing Gym in Capitol Heights, MD, landed a right that opened a cut of the Spaniard Martinez’s left eye that only worsen over the next round and a half. As the fourth round drew to a close, the gash split wider and blood began to stream down Martinez’s face, prompting referee Ricky Gonzalez to call time to have the ringside physician examine Martinez. After inspecting the cut, the doctor advised Gonzalez to stop the contest, at the 2:52 mark of round 5.

Tonight marked the fourth successful title defense for Russell since winning the belt against Jhonny Gonzalez (66-11, 54KO) in 2015. Russell is often criticized for the long layoffs he takes between fights. He’s defended his title once per year since 2015, but has stated his intention to fight more frequently. Russell’s lone career blemish remains majority decision against current WBA/WBO lightweight champion, Vasiliy Lomachenko (13-1, 10KO) in 2016.

Two of Russell’s younger brothers, Gary Antuanne (9-0, 9KO) and Gary Antonio (14-0, 12KO) also picked up wins on tonight’s undercard.

For Martinez, tonight marked the fourth time in his career that he was stopped inside the distance. His most impressive win remains his 2014 stoppage of former Japanese world champion, Hozumi Hasegawa (36-5, 16KO).

“I did pretty well. We stayed behind the jab and he couldn’t get past it,” Russell said. “We knew that intellect over athleticism would get it done.”

“We want (WBA Featherweight Champion) Leo Santa Cruz,” he added. “We want to make this fight happen.”

Juan Heraldez Argenis Mendez Fight To Draw

Mayweather Promotions prospect Juan Heraldez (16-0-1, 10KO) battled to a ten round majority draw against fellow super lightweight and former IBF world featherweight champion, Argenis Mendez (25-5-3, 12KO) to open the televised portion of the SHOWTIME broadcast.

The fight was slow to take form, but after four rounds of relative inaction, the pace picked up in the fifth when both fights started to let their hands go. Heraldez, a Las Vegas-native found success with combinations and landed a partially blocked right that grabbed the 32 year-old Mendez’s attention. Towards the end of the action-packed fifth and exchange between the fighter’s drew blood from Heraldez’s mouth.

In the seventh, a perfectly timed counter right over a Mendez jab halted the Dominicans momentum. And in the ensuing round, a check left hook from Mendez landed squarely on the chin of Heraldez. Later in the round, though, Heraldez stormed back, knocking Mendez off balance with a strong jab that followed a straight right hand.

For most of the fight Heraldez, who fights out of the Mayweather Boxing Gym under the tutelage of Otis Pimpleton, tried to employ slick defense and counter and pop-shot his way past Mendez. But his best work came when he was the aggressor, popping jabs to set up right hands. Similarly, Mendez’s most successful work came via old fashioned one-twos, which when thrown, did so with conviction.

At the end of ten, judge Julie Lederman turned a scorecard of 97-93 for Mendez, but was overruled by judges John Basile and Kevin Morgan who saw it even, 95-95. 15rounds.com also scored the fight a even.

The result makes it back to back draws for Mendez, who drew against Anthony Peterson (37-1-1, 24KO) in March.

Heavyweights Alfonso and Kiladze Fight To An 8 Round Draw

In tonight’s lesser anticipated battle between two big men, Cuban-born Robert Alfonso (18-0-1, 8KO) battled to an eight round draw against Sachkere, Georgia’s Iago Kiladze (26-4-1, 18KO).

It was a decent bounceback performance from the 33 year-old Kiladze who was coming off three consecutive losses inside the distance to contenders Adam Kownacki (19-0, 15KO), Michael Hunter (16-1, 11KO) and Joe Joyce (8-0, 8KO). Kiladze’s best work came in the fight’s early goings, has he was able to successfully counter Alfonso.

As the fight wore on, however, the larger Alfonso (250lb.) began to impose himself on Kiladze (219lb.) and in the seventh round began to batter his counterpart.

At the end of eight, however, judges scored it 77-75 both ways and 76-76 resulting in a draw. A just result.

Gary Antuanne Russell Stops Marcos Mojica In 4
In tonight’s lesser anticipated battle between two big men, Cuban-born Robert Alfonso (18-0-1, 8KO) battled to an eight round draw against Sachkere, Georgia’s Iago Kiladze (26-4-1, 18KO).

It was a decent bounceback performance from the 33 year-old Kiladze who was coming off three consecutive losses inside the distance to contenders Adam Kownacki (19-0, 15KO), Michael Hunter (16-1, 11KO) and Joe Joyce (8-0, 8KO). Kiladze’s best work came in the fight’s early goings, has he was able to successfully counter Alfonso.

As the fight wore on, however, the larger Alfonso (250lb.) began to impose himself on Kiladze (219lb.) and in the seventh round began to batter his counterpart.

At the end of eight, however, judges scored it 77-75 both ways and 76-76 resulting in a draw. A just result.

Gary Antuanne Russell Stops Marcos Mojica In 4

The second of three Gary Russell’s to step through the PBC-marked ropes tonight, Gary Antuanne Russell (9-0, 9KO), made easy work of fellow lightweight Marcos “Bombardero” Mojica (16-4-2, 12KO), knocking him out in the 4th of their scheduled 8 round clash.

The former 2016 US Olympian, Russell, had his way with from the onset, showcasing a level of power and hand-speed that Mojica couldn’t deal with. Russell, a southpaw, connected at will throughout, but started landing potential fight-ending shots in the latter stages of the third. In the fourth, Russell, who fights out of the Russell family-owned Enigma Boxing Gym in Capitol Heights, MD, sent Mojica crashing hard to the mat courtesy if a vicious right hook. That was the beginning of the end, as the 22 year-old Russell kept the pressure on and ultimately delivered a definitive left hook to the ribs that sent Mojica back to the mat where he was counted out by referee Raul Caiz. The official stoppage came at the 2:13 mark of round 4.

All of Russell’s 9 professional wins have come before the final bell.

For Mojica, the result spoils his US debut. He had only fought outside of Nicaragua on one other occasion, suffering a TKO loss to Daniyar Yeleussinov (6-0, 3KO) in Monaco.

Richardson Hitchins Batters Alejandro Munera En Route To TKO4

Brooklyn’s own Richardson Hitchins (9-0, 5KO) made it three for three on the night for Mayweather Promotions prospects, as he put a beatdown on fellow super lightweight Alejandro Munera (4-2-3, 4KO) scoring a TKO4 in a contest initially scheduled for 8.

Hitchins, a former 2016 Haitian Olympian, dominated from the opening bell, landing at will against his wild-swinging Colombian counterpart. Hitchins, 21, almost ended the fight in the first when he landed a slick left uppercut that clearly hurt the 29 year-old Munera. The fight would last just two more rounds anyway, as Hitchins continued to batter Munera, who was fighting outside of Colombia for the first time, eventually dropping him with a left to the liver toward the end of the third. Before the bell sounded to signal round four, the ringside physician advised the referee to stop the contest to prevent further punishment.

Mayweather Promotions bantamweight prospect Dylan “The Real Dyl” Price (8-0, 6KO) slugged his way to a 5th round TKO against Manuel Salvador Monzo (4-7-2, 2KO) in a bout originally slated for six.

Manzo, 29, took an all or nothing approach from the opening bell, as the Mexican came out of his corner wailing away at a somewhat unsuspecting Price. Price didn’t get rattled or allow himself to be overwhelmed, however. Rather, the patient and calculating 20 year-old, fought fire with fire, trading blows in the early goings, but was conscious to not waste his punches, always throwing with purpose. Conversely, Manzo threw too often, too wide, and too recklessly and by the fourth round was out of gas.

As Manzo tired, his punches lost steam, and his defense opened up. The southpaw Price took full advantage and began to dominate the fight with combination punching, landing at will toward the end the fourth.

In the fifth, a right uppercut wobbled Manzo, and the ensuing punches that landed were enough to prompt the ringside physician to signal to referee Raul Caiz to stop the contest at the 1:34 mark.

The fight snaps a 5-fight unbeaten streak for Manzo who started his career 0-6-1 and hadn’t lost since October 2017.

It was Price’s fifth fight at the Barclays Center and first win inside the distance since January 2018.

Antonio Russell Earns Technical Decision Over Saul Eduardo Hernandez

In the first of three fights to feature a Gary Russell, 26 year-old bantamweight Gary Antonio Russell (14-0, 12KO) earned a six round technical decision (60-54×2, 59-55) in a bout originally scheduled for eight against rugged Mexican Saul Eduardo Hernandez (13-13-1, 8KO). A clash of heads late in 6th sent Hernandez sprawling to the mat in pain, where he remained until the ringside physician examined him and advised the referee to stop the contest.

It was a match fought mostly at close range and saw both boxers willing to eat a punch to land one of their own. Save for two memorable Hernandez rights, however, Russell eluded most of his counterparts’ offense. Russell, who fights out of his family’s Enigma Boxing Gym in Capitol Heights, MD scored with blitzing combinations that eventually wore Hernandez down. If it wasn’t for three initial rounds of headhunting, Russell likely could have put an end to the contest earlier if he’d invested in the body opening rounds

It was Russell’s second consecutive fight at the Barclays Center. He last fought here in March on the undercard of Brian Castano and Erislandy Lara’s junior middleweight title fight.

Kenny Robles Overwhelms Roy McGill, Stops Him In 5

In a contest slated for six, Staten Island’s Kenny Robles upped his record to 6-1, 3KO, scoring 5th round stoppage over fellow super lightweight Roy McGill (6-3, 3KO) to kick off a nine fight card from the Barclays Center which will culminate when Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder (40-0-1, 39) makes his tenth defense of his WBC world heavyweight title against mandatory challenger Dominic “Trouble” Breazeale (20-1, 18KO) live on SHOWTIME.

Robles, 28, consistently got off first and took the fight to his 30 year-old counterpart. McGill, a Harrisburg, PA native had no answers for Robles’ volume punching and pressure. After Robles, a former New York Golden Gloves Champion, fired off a lengthy unobstructed combination, referee Shada Murdaugh stepped in to stop the punishment at the 1:43 mark of the fifth round.

BROOKLYN, NY — In the main event of a Showtime Championship Boxing card in front of 7,329 paid fans at the Barclays Center, WBA world junior middleweight champion Brian “El Boxi” Castaño (15-0-1, 11KO) fought former world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara (25-3-3, 14KO) to a twelve round split draw and retained his title in the process.

It was an impressive American debut for the undefeated 29 year-old Argentine, who brought the pressure to his Lara all night long. Early on, it was Lara’s fight though, as the slick Cuban southpaw peppered in his shots with effectiveness, and moved well laterally, avoiding many of his counterpart’s punches. As the fight progressed, however, especially during the middle rounds, Castaño’s never ending pressure began to overwhelm and smother Lara, who would shell up for ten to fifteen seconds at a time without returned any fire.

Both fighter’s dug in down the stretch, with Castaño still drudging forward, while Lara still found success pot-shotting with that coiled left hand.

At the end of twelve, judge John McKaie scored it 115-113 Lara, Kevin Morgan 115-113 Castaño, and Julie Lederman 114-114, even.

The fight marked Lara’s first bout since his dramatic 2018 Fight of the Year split decision loss to Jarrett Hurd, a fight in which Hurd dropped Lara in the 12th to tip the scorecards in his favor.

For Castaño, who amassed an impressive 181-10 amateur record which included a 2011 win over current welterweight champion Errol Spence, Jr., tonight marked his first defense of his WBA title since winning it via TKO against veteran French fighter Cedric Vitu (47-3, 19KO) in March 2018.

“It was a great fight, but I saw myself winning eight rounds tonight. My punches were much more effective,” Lara said. “He did have pressure but I was dominating the pressure. I was definitely expecting that pressure because he waited a long time for this fight.”

He added, “If we have to fight him again I’ll fight him. Hurd or Castano. Anybody, I’ll have the rematch with both.”

Castaño addressed the media afterwards, as well, saying, “It was a good fight. A clash of styles. I know I won the fight. I feel I was robbed. If he wants the rematch, I’ll give him the rematch.”

Luis “King Kong” Ortiz Decisions Christian Hammer

Luis “King Kong” Ortiz (31-1, 26KO) easily outpointed durable veteran Christian Hammer (24-6, 14KO) in a ten round heavyweight bout, making it three wins in a row for the Cuban southpaw since suffering his lone career defeat — a TKO loss to WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder in March 2018.

It was a relatively easy night at the office for Ortiz, who at 238¾ lbs was fighting at his lightest weight since 2015. Ortiz used his jab early to to control the range, peppering in that thundering left hand to keep Hammer honest. Hammer, who was making his US debut, was willing to shell up and let Ortiz fire a few shots before trying to come back and connect with a game changing right.

Early in the second round, it looked like Hammer might have hurt Ortiz, as the big Cuban lost his balance, and dipped low, his glove possibly grazing the canvas. Referee Shada Murdough didn’t rule a knockdown, however, and Ortiz quickly regained composure.

In the fourth round an Ortiz left drew blood from the 31 year-old Hammer’s nose, which seemed to bother him for the remainder of the round as he continually wiped the blood away with the back of his glove. The very next round, Hammer returned the favor, and sent a straight right to the face of Ortiz which immediately produced blood from “King Kong’s” nose.

From the fifth till the final bell, the debatable 39 year-old Ortiz put it in cruise control, banging away at Hammer, who has also come up short against notables Tyson Fury and Alexander Povetkin, without any repercussions.

At the end of the contest, judges Waleska Roldan and John Basile scored it 99-91 and Joseph Pasquale 100-90 all for Ortiz.

“The fight wasn’t what I was expecting. It was a hard fight and my corner really had to work with me,” Ortiz said. “It was a hard fight. After I got the rhythm, I heated up a little bit.”

“I fought a fight that I hadn’t for years, which is box and work,” he continued. “So I’m not disappointed I didn’t knock him out. I showed some of my boxing skills tonight.”

Hammer also spoke after the fight. “Ortiz is a very good and experienced fighter. He’s technical and smart but he’s not as intimidating as people say he is,” he said. “I respect Ortiz but I don’t think he’s the best fighter I’ve ever faced.”

Hammer also chalked up his defeat as a moral victory, adding, “I’m very confident going forward. I know that I can go the distance with anyone and I’m willing to fight anyone. People thought I’d get knocked out but I proved them wrong.”

Ramirez Stops De Gracia In Dramatic Fashion

With one perfectly thrown right uppercut, Mexican featherweight Eduardo Ramirez (22-1-3, 9KO) offset Bryan De Gracia’s (24-2-1, 20KO) equilibrium, zapped his legs of their strength, and moments later, ended their fight in dramatic fashion en route to a TKO9 victory, claiming the WBA’s “Gold” featherweight world title in the process.

It was a back and forth affair, a clash of styles, with the Panamanian assuming the role of aggressor, while Ramirez content to olé his foe and slip in counters. The fight began to heat up as it bore on, with exchanges occurring with more frequency. Toward the end of the fifth, the two let their hands fly with fury, both eating and landing leather. It was De Gracia, however, getting the better of his opponent that round, and capped that exchange with a huge right that landed flush just seconds before the bell.

The seesaw contest continued until the 9th when seemingly out of nowhere, Ramirez landed a fantastically timed right uppercut, thrown under De Gracia’s outstretched jab, that exploded on the Panamanian’s chin and sent him into disarray. Clearly hurt, De Gracia stumbled around the ring trying to regain his balance, but was unable to do so. Ramirez stayed right with De Gracia, unloading the tank, and finally, after one more big right hand that sent De Gracia stumbling back toward the ropes, referee Benjy Esteves stopped the contest at the 2:10 mark of round 9.

Two judges had De Gracia up 77-75 at the stoppage, while the third had it a draw, 76-76. 15rounds.com had Ramirez up 77-75 at the time of the stoppage.

Tonight marked the first time De Gracia fought outside his native Panama. Conversely, for Ramirez, this was the second time he fought on American soil. The Mexican drew with undefeated Cuban southpaw, Leduan Barthelemy in September 2017.

Ramirez’s only career defeat remains his decision loss to Welshman Lee Selby in their 2017 world title fight.

“I‘d like to dedicate this fight to my deceased grandfather,” Ramirez said afterward. “This win is in memory of him.”

He continued, “I definitely knew it was close but my corner kept telling me to keep going and going, and that’s when I caught him.

Edwin Rodriguez Grinds Out UD Over Mitch Williams

Former super middleweight title challenger turned borderline heavyweight, Edwin “La Bomba” Rodriguez (31-2, 20KO) outslugged fellow cruiserweight Mitch “King Kamm” Williams (16-7-3,11KO) en route to a ten round unanimous decision.

The Dominican-American Rodriguez, who tipped the scales just shy of the cruiserweight limit at 198.2 lbs., looked less than impressive, but showed a ton of heart as he stood toe-to-toe, exchanging blow-for-blow with his 36 year-old counterpart. Rodriguez, who now fights out of Stafford, TX, hurt Michigan’s Williams with body shots a few times during the contest, but was unable to deliver definitive blows and stop the rugged southpaw — something a better conditioned Rodriguez may have very well been able to do.

“La Bomba” has now won three in a row since being viciously KO’d by Thomas Williams Jr. in late 2016. His only other professional came courtesy of Andre Ward in their 2013 title fight.

Antonio Russell Brutalizes Cardenas, Stops Him In 6

In the second of three fights broadcast on the Showtime Sports YouTube channel, undefeated bantamweight Antonio Russell (13-0, 11KO) punished seventeen-fight Mexican veteran, Jose Maria Cardenas (16-4, 13KO) en route to a TKO6.

It was a rough and tumble affair, originally slated for 8, that was particularly brutal at times. Towards the end of the first round, Russell uncorked a barrage of hammering rights to the side of Cardenas’ head that eventually crumbled Cardenas to the canvas.

In the ensuing rounds, the Washington DC native, Russell, continued to have his way with the too-tough-for-his-own-good Mexican, who time and again found himself with his back against the ropes, eating Russell punches while attempting to clinch.

Eventually, at the :22 mark of the 6th round, after being tagged with another flurry of Russell blows, the ringside physician jumped onto the ring apron and advised the referee to stop the contest.

Russell, who fights out of the Russell family-owned Enigma Boxing Gym in Capitol heights, MD, had his older brother, WBC world featherweight champion, Gary Russell, Jr. operating as his chief second during the match.

In the second of three fights broadcast on the Showtime Sports YouTube channel, undefeated bantamweight Antonio Russell (13-0, 11KO) punished seventeen-fight Mexican veteran, Jose Maria Cardenas (16-4, 13KO) en route to a TKO6.

It was a rough and tumble affair, originally slated for 8, that was particularly brutal at times. Towards the end of the first round, Russell uncorked a barrage of hammering rights to the side of Cardenas’ head that eventually crumbled Cardenas to the canvas.

In the ensuing rounds, the Washington DC native, Russell, continued to have his way with the too-tough-for-his-own-good Mexican, who time and again found himself with his back against the ropes, eating Russell punches while attempting to clinch.

Eventually, at the :22 mark of the 6th round, after being tagged with another flurry of Russell blows, the ringside physician jumped onto the ring apron and advised the referee to stop the contest.

Russell, who fights out of the Russell family-owned Enigma Boxing Gym in Capitol heights, MD, had his older brother, WBC world featherweight champion, Gary Russell, Jr. operating as his chief second during the match.

Barthelemy Cruises To UD In First Fight Since 2017

Undefeated Cuban super featherweight Leduan Barthelemy (14-0-1, 7KO) returned to the ring for the first time since drawing against Eduardo Ramirez in 2017 and waltzed to a wide 8 round unanimous decision against Mexico’s Miguel Angel Aispuro (11-7-2, 7KO). The southpaw Barthelemy, who is the younger brother of former two-division world champion, Rances Barthelemy, had everything working well tonight. He was patient and precise, scoring with jabs, straight lefts, and counter rights. He mostly forewent any combination punching, however, and because of that was unable to stop Aispuro inside the distance. Nonetheless, Barthelemy notched another “W”, earning scores of 80-72×2 and 79-73 from the judges.

Hitchins Makes Easy Work of Game Morales

Undefeated Mayweather Promotions prospect and Brooklyn native, Richardson Hitchins ran his record up to a perfect 8-0, 4KO with a 4th round TKO stoppage against hard-nosed veteran David Morales (13-10, 13KO). The former 2016 Haitian Olympian wasted no time introducing himself to his Nicaraguan counterpart, immediately going on the offensive, unloading from the opening bell, forcing Morales to fight going backward. After two-plus rounds of battering Morales from post to post and rope to rope, Hitchins finally finished off his foe with a flurry of punches that brought Morales to a knee. Although he beat the ensuing ten count, he was unable to answer the bell for round 4.

Undefeated Mayweather Promotions prospect and Brooklyn native, Richardson Hitchins ran his record up to a perfect 8-0, 4KO with a 4th round TKO stoppage against hard-nosed veteran David Morales (13-10, 13KO). The former 2016 Haitian Olympian wasted no time introducing himself to his Nicaraguan counterpart, immediately going on the offensive, unloading from the opening bell, forcing Morales to fight going backward. After two-plus rounds of battering Morales from post to post and rope to rope, Hitchins finally finished off his foe with a flurry of punches that brought Morales to a knee. Although he beat the ensuing ten count, he was unable to answer the bell for round 4.

Maryland’s Irby Stays Unbeaten, Scores UD Over Okoth

Landover, Maryland’s Tyrek Irby (7-0, KO) made it two-for-two for “Free State” southpaws, grinding out a six round unanimous decision over fellow welterweight Dennis Okoth (2-2-1, 1KO) of Kenya. After scoring a knockdown early in the first, Irby then went on the defensive, counterpunching his way past the aggressive Kenyan. It wasn’t easy or pretty — especially after a clash of heads in round 6 opened a nasty gash above Irby’s right eye — but Irby was able to navigate his way to the win. Ring announcer Miguel Flores failed to announce the actual judge’s scores, but no reason to doubt the decision.

Baltimore’s Anderson Opens Card With Easy Win

In the first of nine fights slated from the Barclays Center, undefeated Maryland southpaw Aaron Anderson (4-0, 3KO) shutout (40-36×3) fellow middleweight Chukka Willis (4-10, 2KO) in a four rounder. The night’s boxing will commence with a Showtime Championship Boxing tripleheader (9pm ET), anchored by undefeated WBA junior middleweight champion Brian Castaño (15-0, 11KO) against former Cuban titleist, Erislandy Lara (25-3-2, 14KO). The broadcast will also feature a ten round heavyweight scrap between former heavyweight title challengers Luis Ortiz (30-1, 26KO) and Christian Hammer (24-5, 14KO) and a twelve round featherweight fight featuring Panama’s Bryan De Gracia (24-1-1, 20KO) and Mexico’s Eduardo Ramirez (21-1-3, 8KO).

BROOKLYN (February 27, 2019) – SHOWTIME Sports will provide live streaming coverage of three undercard fights on the network’s social media platforms as part of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, March 2 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Streaming action will see hard-hitting contender Edwin Rodriguez battle Mitch Williams in a 10-round cruiserweight fight, unbeaten prospect Antonio Russell square off against Mexico’s Jose Maria Cardenas in an eight-round bantamweight showdown and Leduan Barthelemy step in for an eight-round super featherweight matchup with Mexico’s Miguel Angel Aispuro,

The social media presentation will stream on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page leading up to the evening’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING event. The three-fight SHOWTIME telecast begins live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by former world champion Erislandy Lara challenging undefeated WBA Super Welterweight Champion Brian Castaño.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Rodriguez (30-2, 20 KOs) has demonstrated his power-punching ability throughout numerous memorable contests in his career. The 33-year-old was born in Moca, Dominican Republic before moving to Worcester, Massachusetts. In his last fight he scored a unanimous decision over Lionell Thompson last February. He will battle Jackson, Michigan’s Williams (16-6-3, 11 KOs) who most recently scored a stoppage victory over Michael Sunkett in December.

Antonio Russell (12-0, 10 KOs) sits between Antuanne and WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Russell in the lineage of the Russell family dynasty, and will look to remain unbeaten when he steps into the ring March 2. The 26-year-old scored two knockout victories in 2018 and has stopped his last five opponents from lasting the distance. He will be opposed by the 22-year-old Cardenas (16-3, 13 KOs) from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico.

The younger brother of two-division champion Rances and Olympic gold medalist Yan, Barthelemy (13-0-1, 7 KOs) most recently fought to a split draw against then-unbeaten Eduardo Ramirez in September 2017. The 29-year-old from Cuba now lives and trains in Las Vegas and adds another top Cuban fighter to a card already including Lara and heavyweight contender Luis Ortiz. He prepares to take on the 28-year-old Aispuro (11-6-2, 7 KOs), who enters this contest with a three-fight winning streak.

Non-televised action will feature 2016 Haitian Olympian and Brooklyn-native Richardson Hitchins (7-0, 3 KOs) taking on Nicaragua’s David Morales (13-9, 13 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight showdown, undefeated super lightweight Tyrek Irby (6-0, 2 KOs) facing Kenya’s Dennis Okoth (2-1-1) for six rounds of action and unbeaten Aaron Anderson (3-0, 3 KOs)in a four-round middleweight fight against Atlanta’s Chukka Willis (4-9, 2 KOs).

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ABOUT LARA VS. CASTAÑO
Erislandy Lara vs. Brian Castaño pits former super welterweight world champion Lara against the WBA Super Welterweight Champion Castaño on Saturday, March 2 in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

SHOWTIME coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see Cuban heavyweight contender Luis Ortiz take on Christian Hammer in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, plus hard-hitting Bryan De Graciabattling rugged veteran Eduardo Ramirez in a 12-round featherweight clash that opens the telecast.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @LouDiBella and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

BROOKLYN (November 27, 2018) – U.S. Olympian and super welterweight contender Terrell Gausha clashes with battle-tough veteran Joey Hernandez in a 10-round bout and former two-division world champion and Cuban star Rances Barthelemy competes in a 10-round super lightweight fight, while heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba, who is shaking up the division as a fearsome puncher, enters the ring in a six-round attraction all as part of an action-packed undercard on Saturday, December 22 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The stacked undercard leads into a blockbuster PBC on FOX show that features the Charlo Twins defending their world titles, and a heavyweight showdown between Dominic Breazeale and Carlos Negron in primetime. Jermall Charlo, who won a coin toss with his brother to determine their fight order, will headline the show in a 12-round WBC interim middleweight championship bout against Willie Monroe, Jr., while Jermell Charlo will defend his WBC super welterweight world title against Tony Harrison.

Also featured on the jam-packed undercard is middleweight contender Matt Korobov (28-1, 14 KOs) in an eight-round fight and a 10-round super welterweight showdown between Brandon Quarles (20-4-1, 10 KOs) and Todd Manuel (17-16-1, 5 KOs).

The action continues with rising unbeaten prospects and younger brothers of featherweight world champion Gary Russell Jr., as 2012 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell (7-0, 7 KOs) fights in an eight-round super lightweight bout and unbeaten Gary Antonio Russell (12-0, 10 KOs) looks to remain unbeaten in an eight-round bantamweight tilt.

Tickets for the show, which is being promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, begin at $50 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

The 31-year-old Gausha (20-1, 9 KOs) lost for the first time of his career when he dropped a unanimous decision to Erislandy Lara in a super welterweight title match in 2017 at Barclays Center. A member of the U.S. boxing team at the 2012 London Games, Cleveland’s Gausha is looking to rebound against Hernandez.

Hernandez (27-4-1, 17 KOs) has strung together three straight knockout victories since losing to Austin Trout in 2015 on FS1. A 34-year-old southpaw from Miami, Hernandez is coming off a TKO victory over Jose Antonio Rodriguez on August 8.

A prolific amateur in his native Cuba, Barthelemy (26-1, 13 KOs) returns to the ring after the first defeat of his career, in a super lightweight world title fight against Kiryl Relikh in March. The 32-year-old became a world champion in 2014 when he defeated Argenis Mendez to capture a 130-pound title, and became a two-division champion when he bested Denis Shafikov for a vacant lightweight belt.

Ajagba (7-0, 6 KOs) grabbed attention this summer when his opponent walked out of the ring after touching gloves and the bell sounded to start the opening round live on FS1. He is the lone opponent to leave the ring unscathed against the 24-year-old Ajagba, who was a member of the Nigerian boxing team in the 2016 Rio Olympics and will step into the ring for the fifth time this year and for the second time at Barclays Center as a pro.

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Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FutureOfBoxing, @TwinCharlo, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @BrooklynBoxing and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.