By Norm Frauenheim

A tank is easy to understand. Gervonta Davis isn’t. He’s more mercurial than his bulldozing, armor-plated nickname ever could be. In the ring and out of it, he’s a dynamic force, often a volatile mix of powerful athletic skill and emotions. Unpredictable and unbeaten.

He’s both, and both are very much in play this week as he resumes his career Saturday at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center in a lightweight title defense against Lamont Roach. Only the fight itself (Amazon Prime, Pay-Per-View) itself is predictable. Expect a blowout of the likable, yet smaller Roach, who enters the ring in possession of a junior-lightweight belt.

“You know who I am,’’ Davis said at a news conference this week when asked for a prediction. “You know what I do.’’

What he’s done is undisputed. It’s hard to argue with 28 knockouts in 30 victories. Knowing who he is, however, isn’t quite as clear as his record, a powerful statement of his pound-for-pound credentials. This week, there were more surprises from Davis. Let’s just start with arrivals. Davis has a habit of keeping promoters and reporters waiting. He’s been late to news conferences about as often as he’s left the ring with another stoppage. 

But Thursday he was on time and respectful. In part, perhaps, that’s because he knows and seems to like Roach (25-1-1, 10 KOs), who grew up in Washington DC. Davis is from nearby Baltimore. They’ve known each other since they were kids in the amateur ranks. In part, also perhaps, Davis knows he can dominate Roach.

On paper, the fight looks to be bridge to bigger dates, the biggest of which would be Shakur Stevenson. If not Stevenson, then maybe emerging Keyshawn Davis, the World Boxing Organization’s new lightweight champion. The opportunities are all there for Tank in a year when he could put himself in contention for the top spot in the pound-for-pound argument currently still led by Ukrainian heavyweight Oleksandr Usyk, all-time  welterweight great and current junior-middleweight champion Terence Crawford and junior featherweight champion Naoya Inoue.

From rating to rating, Davis is among the second five. For now. There’s a sense that Davis is better than anyone included among the top 10. Nobody has his finishing power, consistently delivered with predatory instinct and precision. Still, there’s a guessing game about his plans, brought on by his own uncertainty, evident this week on successive days. 

At a live-streamed media workout Wednesday, Davis talked about hopes for a busy year. 

 “I want to say hopefully I got three fights this year,’’ Davis told the moderator about a path that could lead to the top of the pound-of-the-pound debate

The next day, however, Davis wasn’t so sure.

“Yes, it’s good to be in the sport, but sometimes we’ve got to learn ourselves,’’ Davis, now 30 and a father of three,  told Boxing Scene and other reporters Thursday after the formal part of the final news conference.  “I’ve been giving so much to the sport, I don’t take the time to study and learn [myself]. Even if it’s not the sport, I’ve been dishing myself out to other people. I just need time for myself – to grow. And then, hopefully, six months or one year from now, I can come back to the sport and fight these guys.”

Davis has often been compared to Mike Tyson, who on one day would wonder why he’s in the ring and on the next day would talk about how much he loved to fight.  Davis been been called the mini-Tyson for lots of reasons, all also on display this week in the build-up to Saturday’s opening bell. 

Davis was asked about his precise power. He had a Tyson-like answer:

When the big punch lands, Davis said, “It actually feels like a home run, when somebody hit the bat and it’s just right on the target and it goes far. It’s like that. That’s how it feel when you actually hit somebody on the button, you know that you catch ‘em real good.”

Tyson’s description: “I try to catch them right on the tip of his nose, because I try to punch the bone into the brain.’’

From this corner, the guess is that Davis will finish Roach in a way that will include both descriptions — a lot of his own and some of Tyson’s.

But then what? That’s the bigger guess, one for Tank as surely as it was for Tyson.

Top Rank sued

A chill went through the boxing business Thursday at news of a lawsuit filed in California against Top Rank. 

Manager/consultant William Keane is suing Top Rank for more than $25 million in unpaid fees, according to the complaint.

Keane alleges Top Rank President Todd duBoef asked him to secure a deal with alleged Irish gangster Daniel Kinahan for American promotional rights to Tyson Fury, a former heavyweight champion who said he retired in the wake of a rematch loss to Usyk. Fury has acknowledged he has been friendly with Kinahan.

Kinahan, wanted in Ireland for reported money-laundering charges, is reportedly in Dubai.

Top Rank did not comment.

BROOKLYN – February 27, 2025 – Rising welterweight contender David Whitmire will duel fellow unbeaten Angel Munoz in a six-round clash that will serve as the co-main event of the PBC on Prime Video show taking place Saturday, March 1 and leading up to the PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video headlined by boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

Kicking off the three-fight PBC on Prime Video show will be lightweight Deric Davis stepping in against Jamal Johnson in a four-round contest.

The PBC on Prime Video presentation will begin at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and is topped by former unified 154-pound world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd taking on hard-hitting Johan Gonzalez in a 10-round middleweight affair. The streaming fights will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card it leads into.

These fights lead into a stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video that features four title showdowns as PPV undercard matchups will see WBA Super Lightweight World Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela take on hard-hitting top contender Gary Antuanne Russell in the co-main event, WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello defending his title against top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martín, and rising star Yoenis Téllez facing former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title to kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video in the US, UK and Canada — 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. 

The non-televised undercard will also include top prospects as super welterweight Dwyke Flemmings Jr. (9-0, 9 KOs) battles Florent Dervis (10-2, 5 KO) in a six-round attraction and Brooklyn’s Cristian Cangelosi (9-0, 5 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight matchup against Jarrod Tennant (9-3, 4 KOs).

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

**DAVID WHITMIRE VS. ANGEL MUNOZ**

Whitmire (8-0, 6 KO) of Washington DC turned pro in 2023 at just 17 years old. The young talent has beaten everyone in his path so far, stopping six of his eight opponents, but Munoz will likely be his toughest professional test to date.

The southpaw Munoz (7-0, 5 KO) from Oceanside, CA has also shown his power having knocked out five of his seven professional opponents, and he’ll undoubtedly look to score a sixth stoppage on March 1.

**DERIC DAVIS VS. JAMAL JOHNSON**

Fighting out of Fort Washington, MD, Davis (5-0, 5 KO) has gotten off to a fast start professionally, knocking out all five of his opponents. Davis will look keep the knockout streak going when he faces Johnson.

Baltimore’s Johnson (2-0, 1 KO) will enter the ring for the first time in nearly two years when he squares off against Davis. Having turned pro in August 2022, Johnson won his debut by unanimous decision. He followed that up with a knockout in his second pro bout in March 2023. Johnson will aim to settle back into his fighting groove quickly as he faces a difficult test in Davis.

#         #         #

ABOUT TANK VS. ROACH

Davis vs. Roach will see boxing superstar and reigning WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis take on WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach in a lightweight title clash that headlines a loaded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, March 1 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The pay-per-view undercard will WBA Super Lightweight World Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela will take on hard-hitting top contender Gary Antuanne Russell in the co-main event, plus WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello defends his title against top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martín in a pay-per-view attraction. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, rising star Yoenis Téllez will take on former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title.

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.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

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

BROOKLYN – February 27, 2025 – Boxing superstar and reigning WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach went face to face at the final press conference on Thursday before they meet for Davis’ title this Saturday, March 1 headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The press conference also featured fighters competing on the stacked pay-per-view undercard including WBA Super Lightweight World Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela and hard-hitting top contender Gary Antuanne Russell, who duel in the co-main event, WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello and top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martín, who meet in a pay-per-view attraction and rising star Yoenis Téllez and former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams, who kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT in a battle for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title.

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.

Also featured at Thursday’s event were fighters competing in action streamed live on Prime Video preceding the pay-per-view at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT that will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card. In addition, fans can stream the action live on the Prime Video Twitch page at twitch.tv/primevideo. 

These fights will see former unified 154-pound world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd match up against hard-hitting Johan Gonzalez in a 10-round middleweight affair.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Barclays Center:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“It’s showtime now. All the talk and all the work I put in. Come Saturday night, it’ll be a great fight. Lamont is coming in with his best and I’m coming with my best. Right here is the top of the DMV area on the stage. Even on the undercard. Gary Russell… We got great talent fighting on the card Saturday night.

“I want to be here and give it my all. I’m grateful and happy to be part of this event and be at this level in my career. Thank you all for coming out and see you all Saturday night.

“Barclays Center is like my second home since I won my first title in 2017. This is a great atmosphere in Brooklyn. Come Saturday night you will see.

“I’ve known Barry since I was young. He’s been in that space that helped me better my game and also as a person. Being around him is great. It’s good to have two top trainers come together, Barry and Calvin and even Kenny too. Having them all under one roof is amazing. I have coaches and teachers and things like that, so I soak up knowledge from them.

“I’m going to do me regardless. I think about what I’ve been through and what I’ve lost and go in there and get my man. It’s going to get bad. He’s been talking too much too, so we’ll see Saturday night. You know what I come to do and why I’m here. I don’t want to say too much. I’ll keep it polite. I know there will be fireworks.”

LAMONT ROACH

“I don’t have much to say. I’m here to boogie. Saturday night will be a hell of night. I’m coming with my tool bag. I have everything in my tool bag and I got a big bag.

“Saturday night, it’s going down on one of the biggest stages of my life.

“Everybody says I’m just here to show up, but when I do show up, I show out. That belt coming out. Hopefully he is bringing his belt too. That belt coming out.

“Thanks to Tank. He’s the cash cow and head honcho. He gave me the opportunity. Let’s boogie.

“I don’t care about outside critics. I know what I can do in the ring and that’s the only thing that matters honestly, that I go out and give it my all. Nine times out of ten, when I do that, I’ll be victorious.

“I take Tanks’ compliments very well. It lets me know he’s 100% focused and will bring his A game. That’s what will make it a great fight.

“Obviously, he’s here for a reason. He does what he’s supposed to do with the guy in front him. He has good skill and power and a good boxing IQ. All of that together makes for a good championship fighter.

“It would mean everything to be a two-division champion. That’s what I set out to do.

“If this fight breaks the last record, it’s because he has a better dance partner. Come Saturday, you will see. My prediction is ‘AND THE NEW!’”

JOSE VALENZUELA

“I’m happy to be back. Saturday will be an action-packed fight. Gary is coming to fight and I’m coming to fight. We both are in our prime. This fight sells itself. His record speaks for itself. He’s a dangerous fighter. I believe I’m a dangerous fighter too. I’ve put in the work and did everything I have to do to come out victorious Saturday night.

“Winning the title has brought me more motivation and discipline. I think I‘ve matured a lot getting this belt. I’ve gone back and worked harder than ever to show I’m here to stay.  

“He’s a great fighter. He fights at his rhythm and he’s really good at what he does. Regardless of that, you know what I come to do. I come to fight. I’m explosive and I’ve got speed, and I’ve prepared for this fight and I’ll be ready on Saturday night.

“I believe I have a lot of different styles in me. I can fight inside or outside or in the midrange. This fight specifically, I’d like to do a little of both. Mix it up and fight on the inside, midrange and the outside, move forward. He comes forward, so why not give the fans an action-packed fight and steal the night?

“I’m here to stay baby. AND STILL!”

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“There’s a lot I could say but I’ll wrap it up quick. I’m a supporter and representative of DC for sure. Don’t ever get that twisted. I’m coming in here with a chip on my shoulder. I’m coming off a ‘L’ that I took more as a lesson not a loss. I shout out you all for keeping me uplifted when I needed to be. March 1 is right around the corner and we’re ready to get these fireworks popping. May be the best man win.

“He said I’m nothing special. I want him to keep that same energy on fight night.

“It’s a championship fight. That’s motivation enough. That should be something for both of us to make sure we’re on our A-game. I’m coming off a loss, so yeah, I got a chip on my shoulder that makes me want to be in the ring even more. I’m itching right now. I’ll be respectful, but this is definitely a sport that promotes violence. We’re supposed to be aggressive in this sport.

“May the best man win. I come to be in shape and be victorious. I‘m pretty sure he’s going to do the same. He got a game plan and I got a game plan as well. We’re going to keep it respectful, but in an interview he said I’m nothing special in what I got, and I took offense to that. That’s cool. That’s why I’m telling him to keep that same energy on fight night. It’s two days away. I’m itching. He’s itching. Let’s get it on.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“I want to let you know that both me and my team are ready to give 100% out there. Our training camp has been amazing, and my job Saturday night will be to raise the Dominican flag high and represent my country with pride. That’s what I plan to do.

“The message? Simple. I’m among the best fighters in the 140-lb division. I’m going to defeat Sandor Martin and go after every champion in the division. Bring them on. Anybody, and I’m ready to face them.

“I’m not worried at all. In fact, I’m not surprised by what Sandor did because Mikey Garcia wasn’t really at his best when he fought Sandor and Teofimo Lopez is really nobody in the division. Right now, I’m focusing on myself and that’s what I need to do. I believe in what I do, and I’ll be ready on Saturday night.

“I’m ready for everything. It’s going to be a great fight. I’ve prepared so well. The fight can end any time. I’m looking to do so and I’ve prepared to do so.”

SANDOR MARTIN

“He is a good fighter, but I need to be confident in my skills and I need to be different in the ring than his other opponents.

“The last time I fought in New York, I only had three weeks to prepare for the fight. This time I have had more than six months. I’m here in the prime of my career.

“We have a very different idea of the result of the fight. I wish the best for them, and I hope they stay in good form because I’m in the best form of my life.”

YOENIS TELLEZ

“This is a combination of really hard work ethic, and a dream come true. I came to this country with only one objective in mind: to make Cuba proud and I feel like I’m doing that, right here in New York City.

“Yes, this will be my most difficult fight in my short pro career so far. Julian Williams is a skilled fighter who has a lot of experience, no doubt about that. But when I come into the ring on Saturday night, I will be hunting my prey. That’s what I plan to do. As far as a message for the division? A Cuban fighter is here to stay and is coming for all the titles.

“To be honest, if I fight Julian Williams on Saturday night, the way I think I can fight, it won’t be my hardest challenge. I’m not overlooking him, it’s just that in my mind, it’s not that way. I’m going to put my best foot forward out there Saturday night and that’s how it’s going to be.”

JULIAN WILLIAMS

“I think my skillset will be the X factor. I don’t rely on experience. Everybody has their own experiences. I’m relying on my mindset and skills and the work I did in the gym.

“I don’t care what he says. When the bell rings, we will see.”

JARRETT HURD

“I swear, I’m not the type of guy to make excuses. I just know who I am as a fighter… I know what it takes to be at the highest level, and I know if I can’t go out there and get past someone like him, I’m not naïve to the fact I’ll know what time it is.

“I will go out there and dominate him. If that’s toe-to-toe fireworks, if that’s moving around using my jab, it don’t matter. I don’t want to leave it in the judges’ hands, of course. I just feel like I want a clear win. I don’t want to have an iffy win or any questions. I want to have a great performance and a dominant win.

“I’m definitely going for a knockout. In my last fight against Rosario, I think left a little bit too much in the hands of the judges, so I’ll be leaving nothing to the judges and I’m trying to get the win by knockout.”

JOHAN GONZALEZ

“I am coming off a loss, but I do have a great opportunity in front of me right now. We’ve made adjustments and changes in training camp. You’ll get to see that on Saturday night. It’s going to be a different JG.

“I’m going out there to get the win. I want to make Venezuela and my hometown very happy on Saturday night. That’s the goal.”

#         #         #

ABOUT TANK VS. ROACH

Davis vs. Roach will see boxing superstar and reigning WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis take on WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach in a lightweight title clash that headlines a loaded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, March 1 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The pay-per-view undercard will WBA Super Lightweight World Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela will take on hard-hitting top contender Gary Antuanne Russell in the co-main event, plus WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello defends his title against top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martín in a pay-per-view attraction. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, rising star Yoenis Téllez will take on former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title.

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.

Preceding the pay-per-view, Prime Video will stream a two-fight prelims card at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT that will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card. In addition, fans can stream the action live on the Prime Video Twitch page at twitch.tv/primevideo. 

The streaming presentation will feature former unified 154-pound world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd taking on hard-hitting Johan Gonzalez in a 10-round middleweight affair.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

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

BROOKLYN – February 26, 2025 – Boxing superstar and reigning WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach kicked off fight week events on Wednesday with a media workout before they square off for Davis’ title this Saturday, March 1 headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The workout also featured fighters competing on the stacked pay-per-view undercard including WBA Super Lightweight World Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela and hard-hitting top contender Gary Antuanne Russell, who duel in the co-main event, WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello and top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martín, who meet in a pay-per-view attraction and rising star Yoenis Téllez and former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams, who kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT in a battle for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title.

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.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from world famous Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“The atmosphere at Barclays is always amazing. I won my first championship here and I’m just excited to come back here to put on a great performance.

“Training in DC was great. It was fun. It brought the amateur style back.

“Roach is in for a rude awakening, for sure. He’s trying to psyche himself up, but it comes down to skill. Whoever is the most skilled fighter will be the winner.

“Knocking someone out feels like a home run, when it hits the sweet spot of the bat, and it goes far. That’s how it feels for me.

“I want to stay in the ring more this year, hopefully with three fights. Roach comes first, and then we figure it out the rest of the way.

“You’ll see fireworks. I’m sharp, fast and explosive. Lamont is sharp too. It’s going to be a banger, and the fans will be the true winners this Saturday night.”

LAMONT ROACH

“The stakes are higher, but I just want to go hard, that’s about it. I’ve trained to be in the best physical and mental shape I can possibly be in.

“I’ve been doing big fights since I started out as a pro. The (Bernard) Hopkins undercard, Canelo (Alvarez) undercards…and the list goes on. I’m no stranger to any of this, and it doesn’t affect me at all.

“At the end of the day, there’s mutual respect between each other. But if he’s going to troll, I’m going to troll.

“This is everything for me, and becoming a two-division champion would be a dream come true for me.”

JOSÉ VALENZUELA

“It’s a beautiful feeling to be here in New York with these beautiful fans. I’m ready to defend my title on March 1.

“I have a big task ahead of me on Saturday night. I can’t overlook him, and I give him my respect. We are both coming to fight.

“I have a lot of things that he doesn’t in his arsenal, like body shots. Winning this belt has only motivated me to become stronger, faster and smarter at 140 pounds.

“My trainer has given me great confidence, and it just clicks. It shows with how I performed with my last few fights.

“We are two great fighters that are ready to put on a great fight and steal the show on Saturday night.”

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“I can’t give y’all the juice, but I know what I’m capable of and I’m ready to take the shine off of the main event. Stay tuned.

“Every opponent is different, and he forces you to use different tools. The main lesson I took from my last fight was that listening is important because you must be flexible and versatile. Lesson learned.

“There is nothing new that we haven’t seen. If we execute the game plan, we win.

“I feel like Valenzuela is only trying to pump himself up. I don’t care what he says. Keep that same energy.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“To fight here in NYC in front of a big crowd that will have a lot of Dominicans in it is truly a gift from God that motivates me a lot.

“I don’t care if I’m not talked about, people know who I am, and I’ll keep proving that I’m one of the best at 140.

“To be a world champion and to have been able to recover what was mine to begin with is a dream come true. Few people can accomplish that.

“If Martin wants to knock me out, then he is making a big mistake. I don’t think that he has the strength or the tools to KO me, and he knows it.

“I would like to unify after this fight. I don’t have anyone specific in mind, I just want to face any champion out there.”

SANDOR MARTÍN

“I’m going to come out there looking for the knockout, ready for some exchanges and a true war that sees the fans being the true winners of the night.

“The Teofimo (Lopez) fight didn’t really leave any lasting lessons for me. It just showed me that I shouldn’t leave the outcome of a decision in the judges’ hands.

“A lot of people saw me as the winner of that fight, but now New York provides me another opportunity to fight for a world title.

“The 140-pound division is stacked with big names such as Valenzuela, Russell and (Isaac) Pitbull Cruz. I’m here for the big fights.”

YOENIS TÉLLEZ

“I don’t feel any added pressure. I do know that this is a big opportunity that I had been waiting for my whole career. I would like to thank my team and Luis DeCubas Jr. for giving me this great chance.

“I think that Williams could be the toughest opponent of my career, wanting to recover what he lost. But here comes Yoenis Téllez, eager to take over the world.”

JULIAN WILLIAMS

“Yoenis is a good fighter. I studied some tape from him. Hungry and can punch, so they say. I’m excited.

“The adrenaline is rushing, and the stakes are higher here. There is definitely a difference between fighting C+ and C- contenders and a world class fighter like me.

“Winning would be a dream come true. Regaining everything I lost in 36 minutes. That’s the goal.”

#         #         #

ABOUT TANK VS. ROACH

Davis vs. Roach will see boxing superstar and reigning WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis take on WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach in a lightweight title clash that headlines a loaded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, March 1 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The pay-per-view undercard will WBA Super Lightweight World Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela will take on hard-hitting top contender Gary Antuanne Russell in the co-main event, plus WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello defends his title against top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martín in a pay-per-view attraction. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, rising star Yoenis Téllez will take on former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title.

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.

Preceding the pay-per-view, Prime Video will stream a two-fight prelims card at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT that will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card. In addition, fans can stream the action live on the Prime Video Twitch page at twitch.tv/primevideo. 

The streaming presentation will feature former unified 154-pound world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd taking on hard-hitting Johan Gonzalez in a 10-round middleweight affair, plus undefeated rising super featherweight contender Geo “La Roca” Lopez faces Alex Dilmaghani for an eight-round fight.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

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

BROOKLYN (Feb. 25, 2025) — PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, returns to the ring when it live streams to boxing fans, in the U.S. and Canada, an explosive battle between reigning world champions from rival cities.  WBA lightweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis (30-0, 28 KOs), from Baltimore, will defend his title against WBA super featherweight champion Lamont Roach, Jr. (25-1-1, 10 KOs), from Washington, D.C., in the main even rumble of an action-packed pay-per-view event, live from Barclays Center, in Brooklyn!  The Tank vs. Roach world championship pay-per-view event will take place thisSaturday, March 1, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.  Priced at $79.99, it can be ordered by clicking here: PPV.COM – Davis vs. Roach.

“The March 1 135-pound matchup between Tank Davis and Lamont Roach is one of those near-inevitable boxing events which has been brewing for years, going back to their amateur days.  Roach had a largely successful amateur career, but lost twice to Davis in their only meetings.  And though Roach has had a mostly successful professional career, it has been Davis, with his unusual skill-and-power combination, who has built a vibrant fan base and achieved pay-per-view clout.  So, Tank is the obvious favorite, though the guy who washes my car assured me Roach has “a puncher’s chance”. Maybe, but clearly the spectacular puncher in the fight is Tank Davis.  He wants a win which will move him toward possible fights with Vasiliy Lomachenko, Keyshawn Davis, and/or Shakur Stevenson.  Roach is a familiar face who represents a steppingstone to those bigger money fights.  And regardless of what my car wash guy says, the puncher in the fight is Tank Davis,” said Hall of Fame boxing commentator Jim Lampley, who returns to ringside to co-host the exclusive and wildly popular viewer chat, in real time, throughout the PPV.COM Tank-Roach world championship event HD live stream.  Jim’s eagerly anticipated memoir, It Happened!: A Uniquely Lucky Life in Sports Television, complete with a foreword by Taylor Sheridan, will be released on April 15. 

Joining Lampley on the live viewer chat will be award-winning boxing journalist Lance Pugmire andpopular podcast hosts Dan Canobbio and former WBO junior welterweight world champion Chris Algieri.  Jim, Lance, Dan, and Chris will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Brooklyn forPPV.COM‘s website and social platforms.

The Tank vs. Roach pay-per-view live stream undercard will feature three exciting title bouts, including: WBA super lightweight world champion Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela (14-2, 9 KOs), a native of Los Mochis, México, now living in Renton, Washington, in a title defense against Gary Antuanne Russell, Jr. (17-1, 17 KOs), the WBA’s no. 5 world-rated contender who hails from Capitol Heights, Maryland; undefeated WBC super lightweight champion Alberto Puello (23-0, 10 KOs), from Las Vegas, Nevada, and the first Dominican fighter to win a world title at 140 lbs,, will make his first title defense against the WBC’s no. 1 world-rated contender and mandatory challenger Sandor Martin (42-3, 15 KOs), from Barcelona, Spain; and opening  the pay-per-view will be rising star and WBA no. 2 world-rated contender Yoenis Tellez (9-0, 7 KOs), a native of Cuba now living in Stafford, Texas, against former WBA/IBF super welterweight champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams (29-4-1, 17 KOs), from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  Tellez and Williams will be battling for the interim WBA super welterweight title.

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Tank vs. Roach for $79.99 in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

JIM LAMPLEY

Jim is the recipient of the Boxing Writers Association of America’s (BWAA) Sam Taub Award for Excellence in Broadcasting Journalism and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in its 2015 class.  He served as anchor and commentator for HBO World Championship Boxing for 30 years and has covered a combined 14 Winter and Summer Olympic Games during his long and distinguished career in sports broadcasting and journalism.

LANCE PUGMIRE

Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the Boxing Writers Association of America’s highest honor.  He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and The Athletic.  Lance currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.

DAN CANOBBIO AND CHRIS ALGIERI

The popular podcast, Inside Boxing Live, hosted byDanand Chris, can be found at PPV.COM, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click hereInside Boxing Live – YouTube. 

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turnkey PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.

RIVERSIDE, CA. – February 13, 2025 – WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela intends to make a statement in his first world title defense as he takes on one of the division’s top contenders in Gary Antuanne Russell on Saturday, March 1 in the explosive co-main event of a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

“I don’t believe that Gary Antuanne Russell belongs here with me,” said Valenzuela. “He’s a strong, solid, durable fighter. He’s good, but I think he’s a little stiff when I look at him more. I worked my ass off to get here, and this is a bit of a handout for him. I took two tough losses and came back from hell to get the ‘Pitbull’ Cruz fight and conquer that. Russell has had everything given to him and I think it’s gonna show on March 1.”

The 25-year-old Valenzuela (14-2, 9 KOs) earned his world title in his last fight, dethroning fellow Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz via decision last Summer. Facing one of the sport’s premier action fighters, Valenzuela believes he showed all the levels to his game by delivering a signature performance.

“My mentality going into the ‘Pitbull’ fight was that I was gonna show that I’m a more diverse fighter than I got credit for, not just a knockout puncher,” said Valenzuela. “I have a full arsenal. I showed my poise in the ring and I showed my ring generalship. There were a lot of little things that I did that had a major effect in the fight.”

Heading into that fight, Valenzuela had come off of back-to-back training camps with famed trainer Robert Garcia and will look to continue the steady improvement that he’s shown since teaming up with one of the sport’s best.

“Having Robert Garcia in my corner gives me a lot of confidence,” said Valenzuela. “He’s really fixed my fundamentals. Everything comes together nicely when we’re working together. This training camp is going great. I’ve been conquering every day with hard work. I’m taking it all in and learning each day. It’s just about learning the techniques and working hard.”

While Valenzuela was able to show off his versatility in out-boxing Cruz on his way to a decision, he believes that the style matchup with Russell will force him to go toe-to-toe on March 1, delivering fireworks for fans tuning in.

“Fans can expect an action-packed fight,” said Valenzuela. “Stylistically it’s a great matchup with him being a lefty and coming with the high guard marching forward. Gary is a lot taller than ‘Pitbull’. I knew I could dance around ‘Pitbull’, but with Gary I think I’m gonna have to fight through him.”

Valenzuela will be making the first defense of his title against Russell, a 2016 U.S. Olympian who comes from one of the sport’s preeminent boxing families, as he’s trained by his brother, former WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. By voluntarily taking on such a stiff challenge in his first title defense, Valenzuela intends to prove his standing in the stacked 140-pound division.

“Taking on Gary Antuanne for my first title defense says a lot about me,” said Valenzuela. “People have to respect it. My name is on the radar because of the kind of opposition I’m going up against. 

“I think I’m at the top of this division with guys like Teofimo Lopez and Alberto Puello,” said Valenzuela. “I believe strongly that I can beat all of these guys. It’s just a matter of taking it one fight at a time. Gary Antuanne Russell is in the way of where I’m trying to get to. I’ve got my full attention on him and I give him his respect. But there’s more that I want to do. My story is gonna continue after this.”

#         #         #

ABOUT TANK VS. ROACH

Davis vs. Roach will see boxing superstar and reigning WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis take on WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach in a lightweight title clash that headlines a loaded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, March 1 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The pay-per-view undercard will WBA Super Lightweight World Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela will take on hard-hitting top contender Gary Antuanne Russell in the co-main event, plus WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello defends his title against top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martín in a pay-per-view attraction. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, rising star Yoenis Téllez will take on former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title.

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.

Preceding the pay-per-view, Prime Video will stream a two-fight prelims card at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT that will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

The streaming presentation will feature former unified 154-pound world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd taking on hard-hitting Johan Gonzalez in a 10-round middleweight affair, plus undefeated rising super featherweight contender Jonathan “La Roca” Lopez faces U.K. contender Alex Dilmaghani for a 10-round fight.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

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

BROOKLYN – February 7, 2025 – A former unified world champion and a fast-rising top contender at 130-pounds will step into the ring in separate attractions featured on a two-fight PBC on Prime Video show taking place Saturday, March 1 and leading up to the PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video headlined by boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The live-streaming of prelims action will begin at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT and be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card it leads into.

The streaming presentation is topped by former unified 154-pound world champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd taking on hard-hitting Johan Gonzalez in a 10-round middleweight affair, plus undefeated rising super featherweight contender Jonathan “La Roca” Lopez faces U.K. contender Alex Dilmaghani for a 10-round fight.

These fights lead into a stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video that features four title showdowns as PPV undercard matchups will see WBA Super Lightweight World Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela take on hard-hitting top contender Gary Antuanne Russell in the co-main event, WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello defending his title against top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martín, and rising star Yoenis Téllez facing former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title to kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video in the US, UK and Canada — 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. 

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

“PBC on Prime Video is once again set for a night of nonstop fireworks with the addition of these two exciting clashes leading into the pay-per-view,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Jarrett Hurd is no stranger to delivering a Fight of the Year, and he will bring his toe-to-toe style into the ring against another power-puncher in Johan Gonzalez. Adding in the fast-rising contender Jonathan Lopez taking on Alex Dilmaghani to open up prelims and this card shapes up to be another night filled with explosive battles.”

**JARRETT HURD VS. JOHAN GONZALEZ**

One of this era’s most acclaimed action fighters, “Swift” Jarrett Hurd will look for a key victory on his path toward another world title run when he takes on the hard-hitting veteran Johan Gonzalez in the 10-round middleweight matchup that headlines the streaming presentation on Prime Video.

The 34-year-old Hurd (25-3-1, 17 KOs) unified the WBA and IBF 154-pound titles in 2018, dropping longtime champion Erislandy Lara in the final round to win a close decision in a fight that was the consensus 2018 Fight of the Year. The Accokeek, Md., native would go on to lose the titles in one of 2019’s best fights, dropping a decision to Julian Williams. Hurd first became champion in February 2017 when he stopped former champion Tony Harrison in the ninth round, before defending the title against another former champion in Austin Trout. Hurd most recently fought former unified champion Jeison Rosario to a draw last August and will enter the ring at Barclays Center for the fourth time as a pro, having scored three previous victories at the venue.

“I’ve been working hard as ever to end my career the right way, back on top where I belong,” said Hurd. “Everyone knows what I bring to the ring, so make sure you tune in March 1 or come out to Barclays Center, because I’m going in there to make a statement.”

A native of Valencia, Venezuela who now trains in Las Vegas, Gonzalez (34-4, 33 KOs) will look to bounce back after most recently dropping an October showdown with rising star Yoenis Tellez on Prime Video. He had previously recovered from a May 2024 defeat against top super welterweight contender Jesus Ramos by stopping Ivan Herrera in two rounds in August of last year. Gonzalez made his stateside debut in 2023, earning a pair of victories in the U.S. by first stopping Ricardo Ruben Villalba in August before defeating Guido Emmanuel Schramm in November. The 33-year-old won those fights following a close 2022 decision defeat to former world title challenger Magomed Kurbanov. A pro since 2017, Gonzalez won his first 22 bouts before dropping a split decision in 2018.

“I’m very thankful to my team for this opportunity on March 1,” said Gonzalez. “I’m not focusing on my opponent, just on being the best Johan Gonzalez. I have to demonstrate my skills. Nothing else matters.”

**JONATHAN LOPEZ VS. ALEX DILMAGHANI**

Trained by the renowned Eddy Reynoso, the 21-year-old Jonathan “La Roca” Lopez has shown the skills to become a future world champion and looks to take down another tough test in the experienced U.K. contender Alex Dilmaghani as they tussle in a 10-round super featherweight clash.

Residing in Orlando, Florida, Lopez (17-0, 12 KOs) turned pro in 2020 following an impressive amateur career and will enter this fight having stopped 10 of his last 12 opponents. Lopez most recently dominated contender Richard Medina last September on his way to earning a unanimous decision that he highlighted by scoring a final round knockdown. He earned a then career-best victory in June 2023 and went 10 rounds for the first time as he bested former title challenger Eduardo Baez via a wide unanimous decision leading into his three-victory 2024 campaign.

“I’m super excited to be back in the ring,” said Lopez. “And I’m very grateful to everyone who made this possible. This is a perfect opportunity for me to showcase my talent and skills on a fight of this magnitude. I have to show everyone that my time is now.”

A native of Manchester, United Kingdom, Dilmaghani (20-3-1, 7 KOs) will fight stateside for the second time as a pro on March 1, after most recently dropping a June 2024 battle to Rene Tellez Giron. The 33-year-old has competed professionally since 2009, always taking on tough competition while fighting in Mexico, Canada, France and Denmark, in addition to his native U.K. He also owns a majority draw against former world title challenger Francisco Fonseca in November 2019 and has won two of his last three bouts.

“I can’t wait to step into the ring on March 1 and show everyone the best version of myself,” said Dilmaghani. “If people are sleeping on me, they’re going to be surprised, because I’m training hard to make sure I steal the show when that bell rings. I’m definitely coming to make the most of this opportunity.”

#         #         #

ABOUT TANK VS. ROACH

Davis vs. Roach will see boxing superstar and reigning WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis take on WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach in a lightweight title clash that headlines a loaded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, March 1 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The pay-per-view undercard will WBA Super Lightweight World Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela will take on hard-hitting top contender Gary Antuanne Russell in the co-main event, plus WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello defends his title against top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martín in a pay-per-view attraction. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, rising star Yoenis Téllez will take on former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title.

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.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

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

BROOKLYN – January 23, 2025 – Fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard for the Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video previewed their respective matchups during a virtual press conference on Thursday before they step into the ring on Saturday, March 1 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

Featured during the virtual presser were WBA Super Lightweight World Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela and top contender Gary Antuanne Russell, who meet in the co-main event, WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello and mandatory challenger Sandor Martín, who compete in a pay-per-view showdown, and rising contender Yoenis Téllez and former unified champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams, who meet for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Featuring four title fights and a bevy of the top talent in the sport, the pay-per-view card is topped by the five-time, three-division world champion Davis returning to Barclays Center where he set the building’s record for the highest-grossing and most-attended boxing event when he scored a highlight-reel KO of Rolando Romero in May 2022. He’ll now step in to defend his WBA Lightweight World Championship against the fast-rising WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Roach, who enters this fight on a six-bout winning streak.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video in the US, UK, and now Canada — 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. 

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

JOSE VALENZUELA

“I’m excited to be back and keep my momentum going. I’m going to give the fans at Barclays Center a great show. This is gonna be a clash. We’re both coming to fight, so make sure you tune-in.

“It was a dream come true to become world champion. Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz is a great competitor. I just stuck to the game plan and stayed focused. I’m going to do the same thing March 1.

“I like this fight better stylistically. Against a short fighter like ‘Pitbull’ I had to fight on my toes, but against Gary I definitely think there’s going to be a lot of action.

“Stylistically, I’m tough for anybody. Some of the big names are gonna try to avoid me. But I’m not worried about that, because I have a tough competitor in front of me and I have to focus on getting this job done.

“Gary is a good fighter, but he’s nothing I haven’t seen before. He comes forward, double jab, high guard. I think I bring way more to the ring and I’m more crafty.

“I went right back to the gym after my last fight. Winning the title just added more fuel to me. Once you get a taste of it, you just want to keep going.

“I love everything about this fight. I think getting a win over Russell will open it up for me to get even bigger fights going forward.”

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“I have a chip on my shoulder and I’m definitely coming to steal the show on March 1 in Brooklyn.

“I’m grateful to be back. Listening to Alberto Puello really makes me want another shot at him, but first I know I can’t overlook ‘Rayo’. He’s a great fighter and I know he’ll come in with a strong game plan. It’ll come down to who is able to overcome adversity.

“The way I see it, I have a shot at something that can catapult me to a great position. I already see myself as an elite fighter. I took my loss on the chin. It’s all about how you bounce back. That’s what defines a true champion.

“Last fight I kind of deviated from some of the stuff I had been doing in the past. I’ve moved onto this fight and I’m ready to get back to what got me here. I want to clean out the division and I have to win on March 1 in order to do that.

“Valenzuela will force me to use some different movement than what I had to use against Puello. I don’t know if Valenzuela has a more suitable style, but he has a style that will make the fight more entertaining than against Puello.

“I’m coming in there with a chip on my shoulder because of the loss. I want to prove something in every fight, but this fight I have to do even more. I don’t want to just be mediocre. I have to make a statement.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“This is a great opportunity for me to defend the world title that I worked so hard to win. Winning that title meant so much to me because it proved to everyone that I’m a real champion at 140 pounds.

“I’m not worried about anything other than preparing well for this fight. I have faced a lot of different opponents, and I know what I have in my arsenal. What Sandor does or doesn’t do does not concern me one bit.

“I have to win this fight and I have to win it with a big statement. I don’t think that I have the respect that I deserve yet. This statement will put the whole boxing world on notice.

“I’m focused on getting my foundation right in the gym. Sometimes I’ll have to be aggressive, sometimes I’ll be more tactical. In the end, that foundation in the gym is what will make me ready to defend the title.

“I would love to fight the winner of Valenzuela vs. Russell. I want to unify the division and then clean out the division.”

SANDOR MARTIN

“I’m better than Puello and his team think I am and I’m going to show it on March 1.

“It’s a pleasure to have this great opportunity to fight in Brooklyn. I’m here to show my skills and show that I’m first class.

“My best skills are in my mind. I can fight any style. Puello is a great fighter who wants to stay undefeated, and that makes me more motivated. I’m going to be at my very best on March 1.

“I have to get the victory and return home as a champion. I have the skills to win this fight and defeat Alberto Puello. If I need to fight like a Mexican warrior, I’ll leave my heart in the ring. I’m ready to do whatever it takes to become world champion and give the fans a great show.

“This isn’t just a normal fight. This is the opportunity I’ve waited for since I was a kid. I’ve earned it. The only thing on my mind is returning home as a world champion.

“I don’t like to talk too much before the fight, because we’ll settle it in the ring. I have no choice but to come out on top. I’m not worried about anything else.”

YOENIS TELLEZ

“I’ve had an outstanding training camp because I know what this opportunity means to me. This is the opportunity of a lifetime and I want to take full advantage on March 1.

“I wanted a challenge and when Julian’s name came up, I was ready to go. He’s an exciting challenge for me to work and figure out how to overcome.

“This fight is going to establish me in this division and show what I can do. Everyone will see after March 1.

“Julian has everything to gain and everything to lose just like I do. But my motivation is to get where he’s already been. I have to beat him in order to do so.”

JULIAN WILLIAMS

“I’m not dependent on experience. I’m dependent on skillset and being the best Julian Williams that I can be. Experience can actually be overrated. I’m focused on being prepared and being me.

“I want to be great. When there’s a gun, you don’t run away. You run toward the gun. That’s my mentality. I want to be great.

“We’re gonna see on March 1. He’s a good young fighter, but we don’t know too much about him. I let my team study his tape, and we just go in the gym and work on the plan. We’re fine-tuning some things and we’re going to show up March 1 ready to win.

“I’m taking it one step at a time. I’m ready to stick with it. Whatever my coaches put into the game plan, I’ll be ready to implement it.”

#         #         #

ABOUT TANK VS. ROACH

Davis vs. Roach will see boxing superstar and reigning WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis take on WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach in a lightweight title clash that headlines a loaded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, March 1 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The pay-per-view undercard will WBA Super Lightweight World Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela will take on hard-hitting top contender Gary Antuanne Russell in the co-main event, plus WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello defends his title against top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martín in a pay-per-view attraction. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, rising star Yoenis Téllez will take on former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title.

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.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

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

BROOKLYN – January 21, 2025 – Three title bouts, including two explosive 140-pound world championship showdowns and a 154-pound crossroads matchup between a rising star and former unified champion, will round out a loaded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video taking place Saturday, March 1 headlined by a lightweight title showdown between boxing superstar and reigning WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela will take on hard-hitting top contender Gary Antuanne Russell in the co-main event, plus WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello defends his title against top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martin in a pay-per-view attraction. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, rising star Yoenis Tellez will take on former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title.

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.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

“Saturday, March 1 will feature four title fights on a stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video with rising stars, knockout artists and established champions and contenders all looking to steal the show,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “In addition to the ‘Tank’ Davis vs. Lamont Roach main event, two 140-pound world titles will be on the line as ‘Rayo’ Valenzuela defends his belt against the always dangerous Gary Antuanne Russell, plus Alberto Puello begins his second reign as a super lightweight world champion against the top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martin. With fast-ascending contender Yoenis Tellez battling the established former champion Julian Williams to open the action, this card is teed up to deliver nonstop drama once again at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.”

**JOSE VALENZUELA VS. GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL**

The co-main event will pit two of the brightest young stars in the 140-pound division against each other as WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela makes the first defense of his world title against the hard-hitting U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell in a fight scheduled for 12 rounds.

The 25-year-old Valenzuela (14-2, 9 KOs) became a world champion in his last outing, upsetting Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz by decision in August of last year by showing off the tremendous boxing acumen he’s honed with his famed trainer Robert Garcia. Originally from Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Valenzuela had earned the world title fight following a pair of exciting contests against top contender Chris Colbert. After losing a debated decision to Colbert in March 2023, Valenzuela bounced back to blast out Colbert in round six of their December 2023 rematch, delivering one of the year’s top knockouts. Valenzuela burst onto the scene in 2018, quickly racking up 12 wins and a first round knockout of former world champion Francisco Vargas, before dropping a 2022 bout against top contender Edwin De Los Santos. 

“I’m here to show the world what it means to be great,” said Valenzuela. “Bring me your most ferocious, and I will bring back their heads. On March 1 I will achieve victory against Gary Antuanne Russell and cement my legacy in the super lightweight division. Don’t miss it, because I’m making sure everyone knows where I stand at 140 pounds.”

Fighting out of his native Capitol Heights, Md., Russell (17-1, 17 KOs) has carried on the legacy left by his late father Gary Sr. A member of one of the sport’s preeminent fighting families, Russell trains alongside his older brothers, former WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and bantamweight contender Gary Antonio. The 28-year-old will look to capture a world title in his second attempt, after dropping a competitive decision to Alberto Puello in their June 2024 clash for the WBC 140-pound title. Going into that fight, Russell had not allowed an opponent to make it to the final bell since turning pro in 2017 following his run representing the U.S. at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics. On his way to title contention Russell became the first fighter to knock out former world champion Viktor Postol and two-division champion Rances Barthelemy.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and display my skills,” said Russell. “Not everyone can perform when the heat gets turned up in the kitchen, but like Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson said, can you smell what we’re cooking? We’re gonna find out if Valenzuela is ready on March 1.” 

**ALBERTO PUELLO VS. SANDOR MARTIN**

The pay-per-view action will also feature a second 140-pound world title attraction, as WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello puts his belt on the line against the WBC’s top-rated mandatory challenger Sandor Martin in another 12-round showdown. Puello vs. Martin is promoted in association with Top Rank and OPI Since 82.

Now a two-time world champion, Puello (22-0, 10 KOs) returned to titleholder status last June as he bested Gary Antuanne Russell by decision for what was then the WBC’s interim title, before being elevated shortly after fight night. Originally from San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic, Puello now fights out of Las Vegas, where he’s trained by top trainer Ismael Salas. The 30-year-old first became a world champion in August 2022, as he captured the WBA Super Lightweight World Championship with a decision victory over Batyr Akhmedov. Puello first shot up the rankings in July 2019, when he bested the previously unbeaten Jonathan Alonso via unanimous decision to capture an interim title.

“I’ve been waiting for this moment to defend my title and stamp my place in this sport,” said Puello. “Sandor Martin is a great fighter, but come March 1, I’m going to show the world why I’m the WBC Super Lightweight World Champion. This is my time, my stage and I’m ready to put on a show that fans will never forget. When we step into that ring, it’s going to be fireworks. I’m going to bring the best version of myself and do whatever it takes to leave with the victory. I’m doing this for the Dominican Republic, this fight is for them and I’m going to make them proud.”

A native of Barcelona, Spain, Martin (42-3, 15 KOs) was long established as one of the best current fighters from Spain before making his U.S. debut in 2021, when he sprung the 2021 Upset of the Year on four-division world champion Mikey Garcia. The 31-year-old has never been stopped in his career, and nearly earned another upset in 2022 as he narrowly lost a debated decision against two-division champion Teofimo Lopez. Most recently, Martin has earned back-to-back knockout victories as he stopped Arblin Kaba in six-rounds in July 2023 and Mohamed El Marcouchi in three rounds in December 2023.

“This world title opportunity is a long time coming,” said Martin. “A new super lightweight king will be crowned on March 1. Alberto Puello has some experience, but he won’t be prepared for what I bring to the ring in Brooklyn. That beautiful WBC belt is coming home with me to Spain.”

**YOENIS TELLEZ VS. JULIAN WILLIAMS**

Opening up the pay-per-view will be the rising Cuban star Yoenis Tellez taking on established contender and former unified 154-pound world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams in a 12-round battle for the vacant Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title.

Trained by the legendary Ronnie Shields in Stafford, Texas, the 24-year-old Téllez (9-0, 7 KOs) made a big statement in action on Prime Video last October as he dominated veteran contender Johan Gonzalez before stopping him in round seven. Previously Tellez made his first big splash in the sport when he stepped in on short notice in July 2023 to blast out contender Sergio Garcia and earn a third-round TKO on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford undercard. Originally from Santiago de Cuba, Cuba, Téllez continued to rise in two subsequent bouts after the Garcia triumph, closing the show in style with a 10^th-round TKO of Livan Navarro in December 2023 before earning a unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Joseph Jackson in April 2024.

“I’m beyond excited for this showdown against Julian Williams on March 1,” said Tellez. “All the hard work I’ve put in since I first put on a pair of gloves at age eight has led to this point. This is my opportunity to prove that I belong with the elites in the super welterweight division. With that Interim WBA title on the line, I’m stepping into the ring with one mission, to win and show the world that I’m ready for the best. I’m going to give the fans a fight they won’t forget. My goal is to take him out before the final bell rings!”

Philadelphia’s Williams (29-4-1, 17 KOs) became a unified world champion at 154-pounds in May 2019 when he upset Jarrett Hurd in one of the year’s best fights, winning a close-quarters brawl by unanimous decision. After losing the titles to Jeison Rosario in his first defense, Williams moved up to 160 pounds and made a run at championship gold there, earning a shot against current WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames that he dropped via ninth-round TKO in a competitive affair. Williams stepped back into the ring in January 2024, stopping Gustavo David Vittori in round two and will now return to the 154-pound division looking to regain his titleholder status.

“I’m grateful and excited for this opportunity to showcase my pedigree on a big stage,” said Williams. “Tellez is a really good, hungry fighter, but I’m putting in the work to ensure that I come out on top come March 1. I’ve never been in a boring fight. I always bring it and this fight night won’t be any different. With both of our styles I think we have a real chance to steal the show.”

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

Jose Valenzuela will make the first defense of his World Boxing Association (WBA) super lightweight belt against Gary Antuanne Russell on March 1 on the same night that Gervonta Davis will face Lamont Roach Jr. for the lightweight belt of the pioneer organization. 

The Barclays Center, home of the Brooklyn Nets, will be the stage of this great event and the “Rayo” intends to have another great performance that will allow him to remain as 140 lbs. monarch. 

The Mexican surprised Isaac Cruz last August 3 in Los Angeles with an exhibition of good boxing with which he managed to limit his aggressive compatriot and defeat him by split decision. Now he will try to ratify all that good momentum on another big stage and against another opponent with good credentials. 

Russell is a southpaw with great punching power who is 28 years old and is coming off the only loss of his career in a close decision against Alberto Puello. The American will be getting his second shot at a world title and wants to get the opportunity that has eluded him once before. 

Valenzuela has a record of 14 wins, 2 losses and 9 knockouts, while Russell has 17 wins, 1 loss and 17 knockouts.

BROOKLYN – December 5, 2024 – WBA Lightweight World Champion and Baltimore’s own Gervonta “Tank” Davis and WBA Super Featherweight World Champion and Washington, D.C.-native Lamont Roach continued their war of words at an open to the public press conference in Washington, D.C. on Thursday ahead of their lightweight world championship clash that headlines a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, March 1 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

A five-time, three-division world champion from Baltimore, Davis and Washington, D.C.’s Roach have reignited their rivalry at a pair of press conferences this week ahead of their world championship clash, as each looks to make a definitive statement in the professional follow up to their previous amateurs showdowns. 

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.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and through ticketmaster.com. The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Burr Gymnasium at Howard University:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“Come March the first, we dance. Everybody knows how I get.

“I haven’t been watching his fights too much, but I’ve been in the gym with him and I know how he moves. I’ll get in camp and get up to date on him. I know for sure he’s definitely tough and has sneaky power. He’s had sneaky power since we were kids. We’re gonna figure out what he’s best at, and we’ll take it away from him.

“I make sure I’m on top of my stuff. It’s boxing, so anything can happen. Boxers have off nights. We gotta do everything to be on top of our game.

“He better not bring his family. That’s what I’ve been saying. He might be my people, but we gotta get it on. I don’t care who he come with. None of them can stop this.

“I’m not just repping Baltimore, I’m repping people all over. Everyone who’s going through something. If people doubt you, or you think your back is against the ropes, I do it for you.

“I’m from Baltimore and he’s from D.C., so you know there’s something to this. But I do always feel like D.C. is home, because I’ve always had to beat these guys in the amateurs and they became my boys.”

LAMONT ROACH

“I’ve got D.C. in here. They know what’s up and they know what’s up with me. His team knows my work, up close and personal. We got a lot for him and come March 1, we’re gonna kick some ass.

“I’ve gotten better in every aspect since the amateurs. I was one of the best boxers in the country as an amateur, and I’m much better now.

“Look at the people here for me. That’s who I do it for. I do it for the people with me. My whole family is from D.C. Like my entire family. They’re gonna celebrate with me in Brooklyn.

“I can do whatever I want. He’s not doing anything to me. He’s got nothing for me. It’s just me and him. He can’t be worried about these other people.

“My advice to the kids who want to fight is to keep your head down. I didn’t get this far by half-assing anything. I put that work in. I advise any youngin’ to go chase their dream. If it was easy, everyone would do it, so you just gotta keep pushing.”

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BROOKLYN – December 3, 2024 – Boxing superstar and WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis went face-to-face with red-hot WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach at a press conference in Brooklyn on Tuesday to preview their lightweight world championship clash that headlines a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, March 1 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

A five-time, three-division world champion, Davis returns to Barclays Center where he set the building’s record for the highest-grossing and most-attended boxing event when he scored a highlight-reel KO of Rolando Romero in May 2022. At Tuesday’s press conference, the fighters re-ignited their rivalry that dates back to their amateur days and promised fireworks when they meet in the ring on March 1. The press tour will continue on Thursday with an open to the public press conference in Washington, D.C.

Tickets for the live event go on sale Thursday, December 5 beginning at 10 a.m. ET and will be available through ticketmaster.com.

Pre-sale tickets are AVAILABLE NOW until 9 a.m. ET on Thursday, December 5 through ticketmaster.com with the code: PBC

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.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday from Barclays Center:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“I’m gonna chop, chop, bob and weave. I’m gonna end it in the ninth round. 

“I like to show people that they aren’t who they say they are. I like to prove it to the people they come with. My first time winning the title, the whole building doubted me.

“I’m excited to be a part of this and come March 1, this is gonna be a great event. It’s gonna be an exciting show, with the same results as always. You just have to wait and see.

“The people’s energy here is amazing. I won my first championship here and I have more followers from New York than almost anywhere. New Yorkers come with great energy.

“Lamont’s got skills. Even at a smaller weight class. He’s one of the guys who I came up with in the sport of boxing, and he’s still doing well. He’s definitely a top opponent and everyone will see that on March 1.

“We’ll have to test his chin come March 1. He might think my opponents don’t have chins, but we’ll definitely test it. I say leave the kids at home.”

LAMONT ROACH

“I shouldn’t be here if I didn’t believe I’m gonna win. I’ve hurt everybody that I’ve been in the ring with and this won’t be any different.

“This is a hell of an opportunity and we’re gonna conquer it. Everyone knows what I’m coming to do. And if you don’t, you’ll be surprised. I’m gonna show you what happens when two dogs go in the ring together.

“My team built my career from the ground up. I have the same team from when I turned professional and we took on the best fights for my career. I worked myself to the number one contender spot, lost a fight and bounced back. We have a common opponent in Hector Luis Garcia and I beat him easily.

“The Frank Martin fight was relatively easy for him. It is what it is. Frank was inexperienced and nervous. This is going to be a different fight when I’m in there. He’s gonna be a different fighter when he’s fighting me.

“It’s a big difference fighting each other in the amateurs and fighting now. We’ve both evolved and gotten better and do different things in the ring. There might be some tendencies that we already know, but I don’t expect those things to matter on the big stage.

“I don’t care about being the underdog or being the favorite. Either way, I’m gonna win.”

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

BROOKLYN – December 3, 2024 – Boxing superstar and reigning WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis will put his world title on the line against the red-hot WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Lamont Roach headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video on Saturday, March 1 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.  

A five-time, three-division world champion, Davis returns to Barclays Center where he set the building’s record for the highest-grossing and most-attended boxing event when he scored a highlight-reel KO of Rolando Romero in May 2022. He’ll now step into the ring looking to stop the fast-rising reigning world champion Roach, who enters this fight on a six-bout winning streak.

Tickets for the live event go on sale Thursday, December 5 beginning at 10 a.m. ET and will be available through ticketmaster.com.

Pre-sale tickets are AVAILABLE NOW until 9 a.m. ET on Thursday, December 5 through ticketmaster.com with the code: PBC

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.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

“Gervonta Davis is one of boxing’s most exciting champions and a crossover star that will bring a memorable night to Brooklyn’s Barclays Center once again as he faces another high-level opponent in the streaking world champion Lamont Roach,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “’Tank’ always gives his fans a show, including his unforgettable knockout of ‘Rolly’ Romero in his last fight at Barclays Center, and his last time headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video, when he stopped the previously unbeaten Frank Martin in spectacular fashion in June. Fans know what they get when it’s a ‘Tank’ Davis fight night and they should expect more of the same on March 1 in Brooklyn.”

**GERVONTA DAVIS VS. LAMONT ROACH**

Baltimore’s Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Washington, D.C.’s Lamont Roach have circled each other for years dating back to a pair of amateur showdowns won by Davis during their teenage years and will now go toe-to-toe as pros in a 12-round 135-pound main event with each reigning as world champion.

Davis (30-0, 28 KOs) has held the lightweight title since 2019 and has also won world titles at 130 and 140 pounds during his spectacular career. He returns to the ring after most recently scoring a highlight-reel knockout of the previously unbeaten Frank Martin in June. The Baltimore-native put an emphatic end to a years-long rivalry with Ryan Garcia last year in a crossover fight that gripped the sports world, dropping him in round two before ending the action with a vicious body shot in round seven.

The 30-year-old is riding a four-fight KO streak into March 1, with 20 of his last 21 victories overall coming inside the distance. His current streak includes a ninth-round stoppage of the previously unbeaten super featherweight world champion Hector Luis Garcia at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. in January 2023, an event that set a new record for the highest-gate at the venue. He also owns the distinction as the only fighter to stop reigning WBC Welterweight World Champion Mario Barrios and former three-division champion Leo Santa Cruz. Davis burst onto the scene with an explosive knockout of Jose Pedraza in 2017 to capture his first world title and won the lightweight strap he currently holds with a 12^th-round KO of former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in 2019.

“I’m excited to come back to Brooklyn and start 2025 ready for the biggest fights in the sport,” said Davis. “Barclays Center is where I won my first world title and it has always been a special place for me and my fans. I’ve had a lot of history with Lamont Roach going back to the amateurs. He’s worked hard to become a world champion and deserves this opportunity. Just like everyone else I’ve fought, he will find out that there are levels to this boxing game. I’m thankful to my team for the opportunity and can’t wait to be back in the ring.”

Washington, D.C.’s Roach (25-1-1, 10 KOs) earned his world championship in November 2023, dethroning Hector Luis Garcia by decision, scoring a clutch knockdown in the final round to wrest the title away. He returned to defend his belt in June as he dominated the previously unbeaten Feargal McCrory on his way to an eighth-round TKO, dropping the Irishman in round three and twice in round four. He’ll now step up looking to become a two-division with a 135-pound title, the weight class he debuted as a pro at before seeking a championship at 130-pounds.

The 28-year-old Roach earned his position at 130 pounds by defeating Angel Rodriguez via unanimous decision in their 12-round July 2022 title eliminator. Roach’s current run comes after he dropped a November 2019 super featherweight world title fight via decision against Jamel Herring. Roach began his pro career with 16-straight victories following an impressive amateur run that included 11 national titles, highlighted by a 2013 National Golden Gloves Championship that led to the honor of being named USA Boxing’s Most Outstanding Boxer. 

“Don’t be surprised when they say ‘and the new!’ on March 1, because I’ve tried to tell y’all this is my time,” said Roach. “Fight fans have to tune into this one, because I’m coming to make this the Fight of the Year. We’re two of the best fighters in this sport, both in our prime, going head-to-head on the biggest stage. You don’t want to miss this one.”

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By Norm Frauenheim —Tank Davis looked vulnerable. The sign was there in an ugly bruise, going from red to crimson, beneath his right eye.

But the bruise might as well have been a mask.

For a while, it hid what has always been there. Davis’ quick-strike power is a dynamic that never stays hidden for long.

It struck all over again, this time dropping a gutsy Frank Martin onto his back alongside the ropes Saturday night in a devastating eighth-round knockout at MGM’s Grand Garden Arena in an Amazon Prime fight for the lightweight title.

“No question, I’m back,’’ Davis (30-0, 28 KOs) said. “No question.’’

No doubt, either.

Questions, however, were lurking after about 14-month stretch of no bouts and time in jail at home in Baltimore.

Martin hoped he had the ability to exploit them. And, for a while, it looked as if he might. He danced away. He moved inside, he moved outside with enough agility and courage to bruise Davis.

“But I knew, I knew, he’d tire out,’’ Davis said.

He did. Martin’s quick feet began to slow, round-after-round absorbing Tank’s wicked combinations.

At 1:29 of the eighth, it was finally over. Davis rocked Martin (19-1, 12 KOs) with a succession of punches. It looked as if Martin was ready to fall. Davis made sure of it with a left-handed shot that began at his hip and traveled like a menacing meteor in a direct strike on Martin’s exposed chin.

It was over, an exclamation point, a reminder of Davis’ pound-for-pound credentials and perhaps an even bigger opportunity to prove himself on a bigger stage against Vasiliy Lomachenko later this year. 

Benavidez scores unanimous decision in 175-pound debut

It was a debut that demanded a difference.

A different David Benavidez.

That’s what he delivered in his first fight at a heavier weight against an experienced and toughened light-heavyweight.

Oleksandr Gvozydk, a former 175-pound champion, endured Benavidez’ whirlwind arsenal early and tested him with his own fundamental power later.

In losing a unanimous decision to Benavidez Saturday night at the MGM’s Grand Garden Arena, the Ukrainian didn’t tame The Monster in a fighter feared at super-middleweight.

But he did counter his evident mean streak with a durability Benavidez has never really encountered.

“I felt like I had a great fight against a great fighter,’’ said Benavidez, who also said he came into the fight with two injuries – a cut over his right eyelid and a torn tendon in his right hand – suffered two weeks ago. “It was a new weight, a different weight.’’

Benavidez left the ring with two things unchanged. He’s still unbeaten (29-0, 24 KOs). And he still intends to pursue a title at super-middleweight. That means Canelo Alvarez, of course.

“We’re going to go back to 168 and go after the title as a mandatory challenger or maybe if the title becomes vacant,’’ Benavidez said.

That of course, depends on what Canelo decides. But it’s safe to assume he was watching.

Early on, what he and a roaring crowd saw was the Benavidez they witnessed at super-middle.

He came out in the first round, shuffling, side

to-side while displaying some newfound head movement.

His father and trainer, Jose Benavidez Sr. had promised a renewed emphasis on defense and his son didn’t disappoint, at least not through the first three minutes.

In the second and third, there were moments when the 27-year-old Benavidez made the 37-year-old Gvozdyk (20-2, 16 KOs) look stiff, if not awkward.

The Ukrainian wasn’t exactly a stationary target. But he was there, in front of Benavidez, and open to a wide variety of punches thrown at alternating angles and speeds.

Gvozdyk couldn’t dodge them all. Benavidez’ punches are like debris in a tornado. They’re coming from everywhere. Example: In the sixth round, it looked as if Gvozdyk had begun to find his range with straight-handed shots.

They were beginning to slow down Benavidez. But in a momentary switch of momentum, Benavidez unleashed a triple shot – three right hands, each from a different angle and all three travelling at a blinding velocity.

From round-to-later round, however, Gvozdyk was there, an edifice impossible to bring down. Benavidez tried in an apparent attempt to fulfill his promised knockout.

Instead of a KO, however, there was only fatigue to go along with another victory in his introduction to a bout that also provided a reminder: There’s a reason for weight classes.

Puello scores SD over Russell/Tank-Martin card

Alberto Puello survived.

He survived a penalty for holding.

He survived a scorecard that suggested he never had a chance.

Turns out, survival was sweet.

Puello scored a split decision over a stronger, quicker Gary Russell (17-1, 17 KOs) for an interim junior-welterweight belt Saturday on the Amazon Prime card featuring David Benavidez-OleksansdrGvodzykand Tank Davis-Frank Martin Saturday at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand.

Puello (23-0, 10 KOs), of The Dominican Republic, won on two cards, 114-113 and 115-113. It was a close fight from almost every perspective but one. Judge David Hudson scored it for Russell, 118-109

It was a hard fight to watch. A hard fight to score, too.

But Carlos Adames (24-1, 18 KOs) did what he had to, keeping the World Boxing Council’s version of the middleweight title with a unanimous decision over Terrell Gausha Saturday on the Amazon Prime card featuring David Benavidez-Oleksandr Gvozdyk and Tank Davis-Frank Martin.

One-sided scorecards — 118-110, 119-109, 118-110 — make it sound as if Adames, of The Dominican Republic, had an easy day at the office. He didn’t. Gausha (24-4-1, 12 KOs) tested him repeatedly in the later rounds. But it was never quite  enough for the middleweight from Encino CA to sore an upset.

Kyrone Davis scores split-decision over Elijah Garcia

Elijah Garcia made the weight. 

But lost the fight.

Kyrone Davis (19-3-1, 6 KOs) took some of the promise out of Garcia’s ambitious career Saturday with a careful, yet effective pace Saturday, scoring  a split decision over the Phoenix middleweight in a bout that was preceded by controversy. 

Late Friday, there were doubts about whether the bout, already postponed once, would even happen. 

Garcia missed weight, coming in at 165.4 pounds and then 163. Davis was at 160.4. 

Davis trainer Stephen Breadman Edwards demanded that Garcia weigh-in again Saturday morning, a few hours before opening bell at MGM’s Grand Garden Arena.

Breadman threatened to cancel the bout if Gracia was heavier than 173 pounds in the morning weigh-in. He wasn’t. According to the official bout sheet, he was at 163.2. The fight was on, but the early pace belonged to Davis.

He came into the ring looking angry, perhaps anxious to take out some frustration on Garcia (16-1, 13 KOs). At opening bell, however, he exhibited only poise. He patiently measured the distance between him and Gracia with a jab.  Then, he followed with repeated rights.

For four or five rounds, Gracia looked tentative, perhaps because of the weight controversy or maybe because of  Davis’ tactical patience. 

Whatever it was, the slow start proved costly. Davis won on two cards, both by 97-93 scores. On the third card, it was 98-92 for Garcia, who stepped up the pace and his level of aggression, especially from the seventh through the 10th rounds. The Arizona southpaw moved forward, trying to walk down Davis while also landing a succession of head-rocking combos.

But, in the end, it wasn’t enough to save Garcia from his first pro defeat, a loss and perhaps a lesson for a young fighter

Magsayo wins one-sided decision

Mark Magsayo (26-2, 17 KOs), a Filipino junior-lightweight, scored a third-round knockdown and then scored repeatedly over the next seven rounds for a decision — as thorough as it was unanimous — over Mexican Eduardo Ramirez (28-4-3,13 KOs) in the sixth bout on the Tank-Martin card Saturday.

After Magsayo rocked Ramirez with an uppercut and then dropped him with a straight hand, Los Mochis fighter continued, but never with much purpose or energy in what what turned into a dull bout. 

Justin Viloria stays unbeaten, scores fifth-round TKO

Justin Villoria (6-0, 4 KOs), a 19-year-old junior-lightweight from Whittier CA, had all of the energy and most of the punches in overwhelming Mexican Angel Contreras Saturday on the Tank Davis-Frank Martin card.

Villoria knocked down Contreras (15-9, 9 KOs) in the fourth and again the fifth, both times with body punches. Seconds after the second knockdown, an exhausted Contreras took a knee, a TKO surrender at  2:02 of the fifth round.

Phoenix junior-featherweight impressive in pro debut

Hello, Brayan Gonzalez.

Gonzalez, a junior-featherweight from Phoenix, was impressive in his professional debut, scoring a first-round knockdown and staggering James Mulder again in the fourth in an afternoon bout hours before the Tank Davis-Frank Martin main event.. 

Mulder (0-2), of Antioch CA, never had a chance. Never scored a point either. It was 40-35 on all three cards, all for Gonzalez (1-0).

Benavidez-trained Blancas stays unbeaten with first-round stoppage

David Benavidez’ stable is 2-0 through the early fights on a card that will feature its star attraction Saturday night in a light-heavyweight debut against  Oleksandr Gvozdyk.

Daniel Blancas (10-0, 5 KOs), a super-middleweight from Milwaukee, didn’t waste any time, flashing Benavidez-like power with a sweeping hook for a first-round stoppage of German Aro Schwartz (23-8-1, 15 KOs). 

Ohio junior lightweight does enough to win majority decision

It was a hard fight to score. Neither fighter did much, but Peggy Whitmore (3-0), a junior-lightweight from Ohio, did more, winning a majority decision (39–37, 39-37, 38-38) over Mia Ellis (7-3, 6 KOs), of Baltimore, in the second bout on the Tank Davis-Frank Martin card

First Bell: Benavidez-trained featherweight opens marathon show with unanimous decision 

First bell sounded like a morning alarm.

It echoed through an empty arena, signaling a noon-time start to a card that eventually will feature David Benavidez-versus-Oleksandr Gvozydk in a light-heavyweight fight and Tank Davis-versus-Frank Martin for the lightweight title Saturday at the MGM’s Grand Garden Arena.

Reina Tellez (8-0-1, 5 KOs), a San Antonio featherweight and a fighter in the Benavidez stable, got the marathon started, winning a four-round, unanimous decision over a taller, yet slower Beta Dudek ((4-2, 4 KOs) of Slovakia.

By Norm Frauenhem –

LAS VEGAS — The weigh-in ended with Gevonta Davis doing something no tank could ever do. He back-flipped. He stuck the landing. It wasn’t exactly Simone Biles.

But it was an example of his dynamic athleticism. His armored nickname is a symbol of his Abrams-like power.

Yet, it’s deceptive, almost a feint. He has power in his hands, to be sure. But it’s the power in those legs that creates openings and sets up angles for the knockout blows that really do land.

Really do stick.

Over 12 rounds, it’s hard to avoid his deadly combination of power and speed. Ryan Garcia couldn’t do it. The bet is that Frank Martin can’t either in their lightweight title fight Saturday night on an Amazon Prime card that also features David Benavidez and Olkesandr Gvozdyk in an intriguing light-heavyweight bout at the MGM’s Grand Garden Arena Saturday night.

“it’s going to be crazy out there,’’ Davis (29-0, 27 KOs) said. “I hope he’s ready.’’

Martin (18-0, 12 KOs) only looked as if he were ready only for a meal or three. He was as gaunt as a Ghost, his nickname. He looked drained Friday after an apparent fight to make weight. He did, tipping the scale at 134.4 pounds, more than a half-pound under the lightweight maximum.

Meanwhile, Davis was full of energy and all of the usual trash talk. Do a back flip? Davis looked as if he could have done two or three more and then a floor routine for a weigh-in crowd estimated to be at 4,000, most of them Tank fans.

“I’m so happy that people in this arena underestimate me,’’ Martin said of the underdog role he has been assigned for this pay-per-view card.

Meanwhile, Tank seemed to celebrate, perhaps more for what might happen after his expected victory over Martin. He came in light. He was a pound lighter than Martin and more than a pound-and-half lighter than the lightweight limit.

There’s been a lot of talk about Tank at junior-welterweight, 140. But Friday’s weigh-in set off speculation about a lightweight showdown with Vasiliy Lomachenko, perhaps in November.

It all hinges on what happens Saturday night on a pay-per-view card scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. in Vegas (8 pm ET). But one thing was apparent. Tank’s backflip says he’s ready to leap into another opportunity, perhaps one as big as a date with Lomachenko.

Before Tank and Martin stepped on to the scale, Benavidez (28-0, 24 KOs) and Gvozdyk (20-1, 16 KOs) weighed-in for a second time. They were on the official scale a few hours before weighing in again for the crowd.

Benavidez, of Phoenix, reported to the Nevada Commission Friday, mid-day, thinking that he was scheduled to officially record his weight for what would be a so-called ceremonial weigh-in later in the day. That had been the routine in his last two fights in Nevada.

This time, however, the Nevada Athletic Commission decided there would be no mock weigh-in. Apparently, Benavidez didn’t get the news. But he asked if could weigh in earlier in the day anyway. The Commission agreed. So, did Gvozdyk.

Both were at 174.2, safely under the 175-pound limit. There was little doubt that Gvozdyk, a 37-year-old ex-champion from the Ukraine, had done the work. He was cut, almost with sculpted upper body, including a six-pack that Benvidez has never had.

At 27, however, he has youth, energy and an evident mean streak.

“The Monstruo,’’ he said of his Monster nickname, “always goes for the knockout. And that’s what I’m going to do.’’   

LAS VEGAS.- June 14, 2024 – Sensational undefeated teenage prospect Justin Viloria will battle Mexico’s Angel Contreras in an eight-round super featherweight contest that will open up a three-fight PBC on Prime Video stream this Saturday, June 15 in the 100^th championship fight night at the historic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. These three preliminary matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

Roiman Villa, who was originally scheduled to face Ricardo Salas in the opening bout, was forced to withdraw due to illness.

The live streaming presentation will begin at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and is topped by rising middleweight Elijah García taking on contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 10-round attraction and former world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo facing Mexican contender Eduardo Ramirez in a 10-round super featherweight clash.

These bouts will lead into a stacked pay-per-view lineup topped by undefeated three-division champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, plus David “El Monstro” Benavídez makes 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 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.

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.

The nephew of four-time world champion Brian Viloria, Viloria (5-0, 3 KOs) has impressed while making his own name in the sport since turning pro in 2023. The 19-year-old debuted in April of last year and picked up three consecutive knockout victories to begin his pro run. Most recently the Whittier, California native scored a unanimous decision over Erick Garcia Benitez in March. He’ll be opposed by the 30-year-old Contreras (15-8-2, 9 KOs), who will look to bounce back after consecutive decision defeats to top prospects Michael Angeletti and Bruce Carrington. A native of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, Contreras won seven of his first eight fights after turning pro in 2016 and put together a three-fight winning streak in 2022, before losing three contests by decision last year.

#         #         #

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

LAS VEGAS – June 13, 2024 – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez and former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk went face to face at the final press conference on Thursday, before they meet for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title this Saturday, June 15 in a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video marking the 100^th championship fight night at the historic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Before Benavidez and Gvozdyk squared off, fighters featured on the stacked undercard previewed their respective matchups, 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.

Also at Thursday’s undercard press conference were fighters who will compete in PBC on Prime Video action preceding the pay-per-view. That lineup features undefeated middleweight Elijah Garcia and veteran contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis, who battle in a 10-round fight, former world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo and Mexican contender Eduardo Ramirez, who meet in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, and Mexico City’s Ricardo Salas, who opens the stream in a 10-round matchup against welterweight knockout artist Roiman Villa. The preliminary matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

The pay-per-view event is topped by boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis as he defends his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin. 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.

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.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I’m looking to steal the show. There’s only two more days until ‘El Monstro’ comes out.

“Oleksandr Gvozdyk is a great fighter and we actually sparred when I was 21-years-old. Now I’m very happy that we can bring the fight to the people.

“Being at light heavyweight feels amazing. This is the easiest weight cut I’ve had in my life. My speed, strength and endurance are all gonna be better. I left no stone unturned for this training camp. I’m facing a great fighter and we’ve put together a great game plan. This is gonna be the David Benavidez night.

“This is the perfect time for me to move up. I’ve been at super middleweight for 10 years and naturally my body has gotten bigger. Now I wanna go after all the titles in this weight class and give the fans the best possible fights that I can.

“I’m going in there to be David Benavidez. ‘El Monstro’ is coming out. I go in there for the knockout every single time, and this won’t be any different.

“The better the competition gets, the better I get. That’s why I’ve never shied away from a big fight. When the lights get turned on, I always show up.

“We have two warriors going up against each other. We’ve had some great sparring sessions and I’m excited to be able to bring that to the people. 

“If it wasn’t for my team, I wouldn’t be where I am right now. Now that we’re here, this is a big card and I’m really excited for it.”

OLEKSANDR GVOZDYK

“For me it’s a big honor to be here and I’m really excited to be on this huge card. I see my face all around Las Vegas and it makes me excited to get into the ring.

“I’m going to resist ‘The Monster’. I’m in the best shape of my life and I’ll do anything to win this fight.

“I don’t expect any discounts from him. I’m facing him in his best shape. I’m excited to face the best version of David Benavidez.

“This is a great opportunity to face a tough fighter like David Benavidez. He’s representing boxing really well. We’re going to show everyone a great fight.

“I’m going to do what I do best. I’ll use my footwork, be consistent and try to time him. I’m going in there to do my job.

“I don’t really think there’s a big difference with David moving up in weight, because he’s already a big fighter. He was a huge super middleweight. I don’t see any size advantage for either of us. I know he’ll feel comfortable in this division.”

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“I’m coming to showcase my talent and I’m going to give everyone a ‘class A’ performance on Saturday night. Stay tuned and continue to follow me.

“We definitely work in camp on distributing our body weight in a certain way to generate power. Everyone has something that works for them, and the Russell family has ours. We have our own signature way of training.

“My father always told me to never magnify my opponent. Whether they’re a world class fighter or not, you go in there and you fight your fight. We’ve seen some footage of him and we’ve seen his flaws. It’s just about whether he’s gonna fix his flaws. I’m one of those opponents that will make him pay for his flaws.

“I’m not looking at him as a pushover or someone who’s gonna lay down for me. I’m coming in there to knock his head off his shoulders. I’m going to stay poised and give everyone an action packed fight.

“I’m looking to make a big statement. My job is to steal some spotlight from the main event. Somebody’s 0 has got to go, and I’m not looking for it to be mine.

“I’m looking to become undisputed. I wanna wipe out my division. He’s a stepping stone. I have to get past him first. I’m not looking too far ahead while I have something in front of me.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“This is going to be a new challenge in my career and I’m primed for it. This is the kind of challenge that I was eager to face. I’m going to give everyone a great fight.

“There’s no doubt that this is the most important fight of my career. Because it’s the kind of fight that’s gonna take me to another level. I’m very proud to be part of this card and I hope that we both bring the best out of each other.

“It’s doubly motivating to be on the same card as my countryman Carlos Adames. What would be better than us taking home two titles to the Dominican Republic?

“I’m glad that Gary is going to bring his best and that he’s eager to fight like I am. I’m not about to taste defeat. This time is my time.

“This fight could end at any time. People may underestimate my power, but my punches can sneak up on you and close this fight at any moment.”

CARLOS ADAMES

“I’m 100% ready. You’re going to see what I’m all about on Saturday night and I just can’t wait to show everybody.

“Carlos Adames is a different kind of fighter. I’m an unstoppable fighter. And I’m not about to let anybody even imagine that they can beat me.

“Gausha is an experienced fighter with a good career, but fighting against me is a whole new issue for him. He’s gonna find out.

“It’s not just about my power, it’s about my boxing IQ. I haven’t even had that much of a chance to show it at this level. I’m excited to get to showcase that IQ even more on Saturday night.

“This is going to be a total nightmare for Terrell. He’s going to wish I wasn’t in front of him. He doesn’t realize what he’s about to be up against.”

TERRELL GAUSHA

“I trained hard because this is a great opportunity. I’m ready to get it on and give everyone a good show. I know what I’m up against, and he better know what he’s up against. I’m coming to fight and win a world title.

“He really pissed me off when he said he was gonna knock me out early. I don’t think he’s taking me seriously enough. I’m here to fight and that’s not happening on Saturday. He fired me up.

“This is a great opportunity for me and I’m gonna go out there and take advantage of it. I’ve been training, working hard and preparing myself for this day.

“I’ve fought at the highest level my whole boxing career. Since the Olympics I’ve fought the top guys and never shied away from anyone. I’m always game in a fight and Saturday night I’m ready to take the victory.

“Saturday night ends with me becoming a world champion and realizing a lifelong dream of mine. I’m ready.”

ELIJAH GARCIA

“Kyrone sounds excited, and that’s good. I’m prepared to give the fans what they deserve. Hopefully he keeps that same energy up through the fight.

“Kyrone is very tough and it takes a lot to beat him. I got myself back into shape and I just had to stay sharp throughout this second camp.

“We’re blessed to have this second opportunity and we’re here to make the best of it and give the fans a great night.

“This is gonna be a great fight. I’m not going in there looking for the knockout. I’m just going to take it round by round and beat him like that.”

KYRONE DAVIS

“I’m happy to be here again and I can’t wait to get in the ring this time. We’re going to have a good fight. I know both of us are coming to win. When it’s time to rumble, I do what I love to do. I’ll take on any challenge.

“He’s talented and he’s gonna bring a lot of offense, and I’m gonna bring a lot, a lot, of fire. You’re gonna see on Saturday.

“I’m just having a good time and living my dream. What’s gonna happen in the ring is what was gonna happen in the ring on March 30. I was disappointed of course. Obviously I’m gonna have some kind of emotion when that happens. Now we’re here and it’ll be settled in the ring.

“This ends with Kyrone Davis as the winner. By any means necessary. No matter what happens, I’m ready. At the end of the day, I’m going to win.”

MARK MAGSAYO

“I’m here to represent the Philippines. I’m thankful for the opportunity and I’m excited to give my best in the ring.

“The Philippines vs. Mexico rivalry means a lot because of Manny Pacquiao and his great fights against Marquez, Barrera and Morales. I want to make boxing history as well for my country.

“This is going to be a great fight because I know that Eduardo Ramirez has been training hard for it. I’ve been training hard since December as well, so the fans are going to get a show.

“There’s going to be a knockout. I don’t know how long it’s going to go, I’m ready to go 10 rounds, but we’ll see how it goes.”

EDUARDO RAMIREZ

“I’m ready and I’ve prepared 100% for this matchup. I’m anxious for fight night to get here. I can’t wait to show everyone what I’m capable of.

“Magsayo is a great fighter and I know that it’s going to be exciting action. I’m going to do what I’ve prepared to do and I believe it will lead to great results on Saturday night.

“This is a world class rivalry where fans from both Mexico and the Philippines are always excited to see the matchup. I’m going to represent my country with pride and help Mexico come out on top again.”

RICARDO SALAS

“I’m very thankful to be on this stage for this great fight. I’ve trained very hard with Isaac Cruz and I’m looking forward to what will be a great fight.

“We’re prepared for whatever comes our way on Saturday. Whether it’s a quick fight or we go the distance, all that matters is that my hand is raised at the end.

“I come ready to fight. The winning streak that I have right now is largely because of the great team that I have with me. That team will help take me to victory on Saturday night.”

JOSE BENAVIDEZ SR., David’s Father & Trainer

“I’m so happy to be here in Las Vegas. We’re going to give the fans a great fight. We’re very proud to be part of this 100^th championship fight night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

“David had a great camp. We trained super hard in Miami in the heat and humidity. We’re ready to give the fans a great fight. Oleksandr is a tremendous fighter with only one loss. It’s gonna be a tough fight, but we prepared so well for it. I really believe David is gonna look spectacular.”

MARCO CONTRERAS, Gvozdyk’s Trainer

“I’m very thankful to the people who made this possible, especially David Benavidez for giving us the opportunity. Oleksandr is in the best shape of his life and he’s ready to give the fans a great fight.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“For the third straight time with Prime Video, we’ll have four title fights on our pay-per-view portion, and we’ve added a third fight to the stream on Prime Video preceding the pay-per-view. So make sure you’re in your seat or tuned in early. It’s a tremendous card and we can’t wait to see everyone on Saturday.”

SAMPSON LEWKOWICZ, Sampson Boxing

“The reason I started calling David Benavidez ‘El Bandera Roja’, or the red flag, is because when you go to the beach and see the red flag, it means don’t go into the water. If you go into the water, you lose.”

#         #         #

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

By Norm Frauenheim – 

LAS VEGAS – Other than Tank Davis showing up, it was a news conference without much news.

Davis, missing in action for the for the so-called Grand Arrivals Tuesday, appeared twenty-four hours later, armed with familiar insults and profanity at the final formal newser for his lightweight title defense against Frank Martin Saturday night.

“I’m going to eff you up,’’ Davis said at the MGM Grand, which will stage its 100^th fight card in a long, legendary run.

In so many words and gestures, Tank repeated the phrase ad nauseam. Only the eff never changed.

Martin, at least, delivered a clever counter.

“I’m glad Tank gave me the opportunity to kick his ass,’’ he said Wednesday.

From oddsmakers to fans, very few believe the 135-pound fight on Amazon Prime will play out quite the way Martin says it will.

Best guess, Martin winds up on his rear end midway through the fight, the main event on a solid card that includes David Benavidez in his light-heavyweight debut against former 175-pound champion Oleksandr Gvodzyk

But there is one notable exception. Former welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. thinks Martin has a real chance. Spence has to think that. He’s Martin’s manager.

“He’s going to show why he’s the best 135-pouder in the world,’’ said Spence, who sat next to his estranged trainer, Derrick James, Martin’s trainer.

Spence and James split not long after the stunning loss to Terence Crawford last July in a controversy that included a lot of angry allegations about money.

Apparently, they don’t agree about much, other than Martin, who for the most part managed to keep his cool in the face of insults and aggressive gestures from Tank.

Davis kept walking toward Martin, who backed away. At one point, Davis appeared to throw an aggressive couple of gestures. Martin reacted, almost as if an altercation was about to begin.

But it was a feint from Tank, who ran away and laughed at Martin.

“When he came up here, he was shaking,’’ Tank said.

Meanwhile, Tank appeared annoyed at stories of a sparring session with Martin several years ago. According to some, Martin landed a left hand that got Tank’s attention.

It “clipped” him, according to one account.

“He ain’t clipped s—,’’ Tank said.

In the end, the newser and maybe the sparring were nothing more than talk.

“We were just talking,” Martin said. “It can go how ever he wants it to go.

“If he acts up you all gonna see him get knocked out. If he comes in and acts crazy, he’s going to sleep.”

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.”

#         #         #

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

LAS VEGAS – June 12, 2024 – Boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis and unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin squared off at the final press conference Wednesday before they meet for Davis’ WBA Lightweight World Championship this Saturday, June 15 headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video in the 100^th championship fight night to take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Davis and Martin traded verbal barbs throughout the press conference and through photo-ops, throwing back and forth jabs on each other’s skill sets, resumes and a previous sparring session.

The four-fight pay-per-view event offers a pair of headlining attractions as fan-favorite David “El Monstro” Benavidez 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 in the co-main event.

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 press conference participants had to say Wednesday:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“I’m gonna break you up. I’m gonna split all that up under your eyes. Every time I tell people something is gonna happen, what happens?

“It hasn’t even hit him yet. He’ll see Saturday. It’s gonna hit him. Especially when I touch him. What is he bringing to the table that I haven’t seen?

“Come out this Saturday, because it’s gonna be a great fight with a great undercard. Don’t get your popcorn, or your juice, stay locked in. Because I’ve been locked in for a long time now and my give back is gonna be a great performance on Saturday night.

“He’s shaking up there. He was talking tough yesterday when it was just him. It’s gonna show. He’s a frontrunner.

“He’s just worried about not getting knocked out. He’s not worrying about winning. He’s trying not to get knocked out.

“All that movement he has is just fake footwork, it’s regular. Mediocre.”

FRANK MARTIN

“June 15 it’s going down. We’re here. Like I’ve said before, I appreciate ‘Tank’ giving me the opportunity to whoop his ass. He just hasn’t been in there with anybody like me.

“This can go down however he wants it to go down. If he acts up, like I’ve been saying, you’re gonna see Gervonta Davis get knocked out. If he acts up, he’s getting knocked out, period. If he acts crazy, he’s going to sleep.

“Calvin’s telling me to push those buttons, well I’m coming to push every button he’s got. Come out and expect a good fight. Let’s get it.

“He’s been working his ass off, because he knows what time it is. He’s been grinding. We haven’t seen too much of you. It’s because he knows this is real.  

“It’s a blessing to be in this position, but it won’t hit me until I get the win. I feel like I worked, and that’s why I’m here. Now I have to get this win and then it’ll all hit me.

“He comes out to hurt everyone he fights. We’ve heard that before. We’re not worried about none of that. We’re ready for whatever he’s about to bring. We got his number.

“I just have to go in there and fight my fight, be comfortable . He has good power, but it doesn’t matter.

“I’m here to get my hand raised and come out with that WBA strap. Then there’s a new face in the seat, and it’s gonna be me.”

ERROL SPENCE JR., Pound-for-Pound Star & Martin’s Promoter

“Come Saturday night, I guarantee you that Frank is going to put on a great show and a great performance. He’s ready for this moment and he’s been ready for this moment for a long time.

“I’ve just told Frank to stay focused, stay hungry and stay dedicated. It’s all about the grind. That’s how he got to this point.

“I guarantee you that Frank is going to show everyone why he’s the best 135-pounder in the world, and the new WBA Lightweight World Champion.”

CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer

“On the 100^th championship fight night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, you’re going to see greatness that night. I want people to leave this show like they just watched a karate movie and say that they wanna fight just like ‘Tank’. We’re gonna put that work in.

“I want Frank to come with it, because I need him to push that button. I haven’t seen it yet. I know what’s under that hood, but there’s a button yet to be pushed. I’m asking Frank to please push that button. It’s nothing personal, but Frank is in the way.

“’Tank’ is pushing forward to where he’s supposed to be at, and Frank is here for a reason. Y’all haven’t seen the real ‘Tank’ yet until that button gets pushed.”

DERRICK JAMES, Martin’s Trainer

“I like that everyone is calling Frank the challenger. Because the thing about boxing is that he’ll come in as the challenger, and 1,000% he’ll leave as the champion.

“Frank had a really good camp. We’ve been able to use everything ‘Tank’ said as fuel for the fire. He wants to get in the ring and prove his point. We wouldn’t be here if we didn’t believe in ourselves.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“When ‘Tank’ fights, it’s bigger than just a championship fight night, it’s like the old days here at MGM with a Mike Tyson event. He’ll be defending his WBA title against yet another undefeated challenger in the undefeated, WBA ranked #2 contender, Frank Martin.

“It’s very exciting to be part of this 100^th championship fight night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena and have this great card that will deliver another amazing atmosphere. There’s something about this building and what happens when you walk out of those locker rooms and down that tunnel, it becomes like gladiators in the arena.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, Famed Boxing Promoter

“Saturday night can’t get here fast enough. Let’s be real, in 2017 ‘Tank’ was a world champion, and Frank Martin wasn’t even a professional yet. One thing about boxing is, you can’t skip steps. It’s about experience, and you get that by consistently fighting the best.

“Frank is a good fighter, but there is a difference between good, and special. ‘Tank’ is special. Everything that Frank does good, ‘Tank’ does better. Come Saturday night, don’t blink. Because this could be over early.”

#         #         #

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

LAS VEGAS – June 11, 2024 – Fighters competing on the stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video made their grand arrivals in Las Vegas Tuesday afternoon as they prepare to enter the ring this Saturday, June 15 in the 100^th championship fight night to take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The card is co-headlined by a pair of matchups featuring two of boxing’s most dynamic stars,  as undefeated three-division champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defends his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while David “El Monstro” Benavidez 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 grand arrivals 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.

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 Benavidez, Martin, Gvozdyk and Davis’ trainer Calvin Ford had to say Tuesday from MGM Grand:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I’m really thankful for everyone who came out to support, this fight is for you. We’ve worked extremely hard and we’re going for the knockout this Saturday.

“My plan is to conquer the light heavyweight and super middleweight divisions. Whoever comes to the plate, they can get it. I’m ready to fight whoever and beat whoever.

“I have a lot to prove to the world. I really want to be the best of my generation and until I am, I’m going to keep working hard.”

FRANK MARTIN

“I’m feeling great. I’m locked in and I’m focused. The goal is to go in there and beat Gervonta Davis. I’m here to take his spot. I’m here for a reason. I’m here to take over.

“I’m different. I got speed, power, IQ, and really I have it all. You’re going to see. When it’s time to bite down, the world is gonna see.

“Sparring is just sparring, we have this fight Saturday and I’m gonna whoop his ass. We have Saturday to show who’s who.”

OLEKSANDR GVOZDYK

“I have a lot of experience and I have something to show him. It’s going to be an exciting fight that you don’t want to miss.

“Even though he’s moving up in weight, he’s still a big guy. So I’m not thinking about that. I’m expecting him to be in the best shape of his career, just like I am.”

CALVIN FORD, Gervonta Davis’ Trainer

“We’re back in business. We’ve been waiting for this for a while, so we’re really excited to put on a great performance for the fans. That’s who we do it for.

“Watching ‘Tank’ in camp, it scares me how great he looks. He’s really showed maturity in the ring. He’s extremely focused. I want people to leave the arena saying how great this fight was.”

#         #         #

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

Legendary boxing journalist Jim Lampley returns to PPV.COM (which does not require a subscription) to co-host his popular and exclusive viewer chat, in real time, on PPV.COM‘s crystal-clear HD live stream of the upcoming boxing event headlined by undefeated superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstruo” Benavidez in separate title fights, this Saturday, June 15, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.  A three-division world champion, Davis (29-0, 27 KOs), from Baltimore, Maryland, will defend his WBA lightweight world title against the WBA’s no. 2 world-rated contender Frank Martin (18-0, 12 KOs), from Indianapolis, Indiana.  Fresh from a brutal stoppage victory of previously undefeated former two-division world champion Demetrius Andrade,  Benavidez (28-0, 24 KOs), from Las Vegas, Nevada, will move up in weight to challenge former WBC light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk (20-1, 16 KOs), who fights out of Oxnard, California.  They will be battling for the vacant interim WBC light heavyweight title.  Priced at $74.99, the stacked four-bout pay-per-view event will emanate from The MGM Grand Garden Arena, which will be hosting its 100th championship boxing event.  The Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk world championship event can be ordered by clicking here PPV.COM: Davis-Martin/Benavidez-Gvozdyk

JIM LAMPLEY’S PREVIEW ANALYSIS

David Benavidez vs Oleksandr Gvozdyk:  “Coming off the level of violent destruction he produced against proven defender Demetrius Andrade, Benavidez now seeks to keep building the buzz by dismantling Oleksandr Gvozdyk’s long jab and counterpunching.  Logic says if it is a boxing match, that favors the Ukrainian and if it is a war, that favors the Mexican-American star.  Gvozdyk is an experienced ring thinker, and Benavidez freely admits Gvozdyk gave him some trouble when they sparred a couple of years ago, but there are some gifted power punchers against whom there isn’t enough time to think, and Benavidez is building a compelling case that he is that kind of puncher.  Late Benavidez KO in a very good fight.”

Gervonta Davis vs Frank Martin:  “Martin trained in Derrick James’ camp during the last few weeks of Ryan Garcia’s preparation for Devin Haney.  Tank Davis’ body shot KO’d Garcia in his last previous ring appearance back in January 2023.  Since then, Davis has been stalled by legal obstacles he caused with a hit-and-run accident in February 2023, after which he violated a sentence instruction and wound up in jail.  Now he approaches an opportunity, if he can beat Martin and set up a huge money rematch with Garcia, in which he would likely be favored.  Davis is a rarity, a highly selective power counter puncher with nuanced defensive skills.  With effective personal self-discipline, he could follow in Floyd Mayweather’s footsteps and become pound for pound number one.  So Tank Davis climbs the list if he can follow form and outpunch Frank Martin.  If he does, the focus swings back to matchmaking.  In this fight, Davis by unanimous decision.”

Joining Jim on the viewer chat will be award-winning boxing journalist Lance Pugmire and popular podcast host Dan Canobbio.  Jim, Lance, and Dan, along with former WBO junior welterweight world champion Chis Algieri will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.COM‘s website and social platforms, like Lampley’s interview with Davis after the announcement press conference:  Gervonta “Tank” Davis sits down with PPV.COM’s Jim Lampley ahead of Tank vs. Martin. – YouTube

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk for $74.99 in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including: Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

LANCE PUGMIRE

Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the Boxing Writers Association of America’s highest honor.  He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and The Athletic.  Lance currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.com.

DAN CANOBBIO AND CHRIS ALGIERI

Danand Chris have moved their popular Inside Boxing Livepodcast to PPV.COM, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click hereInside Boxing Live – YouTube. 

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turnkey PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.

Legendary boxing journalist Jim Lampley returns to PPV.COM (which does not require a subscription) to co-host his popular and exclusive viewer chat, in real time, on PPV.COM‘s crystal-clear HD live stream of the upcoming boxing event headlined by undefeated superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstruo” Benavidez in separate title fights, next Saturday, June 15, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.  A three-division world champion, Davis (29-0, 27 KOs), from Baltimore, Maryland, will defend his WBA lightweight world title against the WBA’s no. 2 world-rated contender Frank Martin (18-0, 12 KOs), from Indianapolis, Indiana.  Fresh from a brutal stoppage victory of previously undefeated former two-division world champion Demetrius Andrade,  Benavidez (28-0, 24 KOs), from Las Vegas, Nevada, will move up in weight to challenge former WBC light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk (20-1, 16 KOs), who fights out of Oxnard, California.  They will be battling for the vacant interim WBC light heavyweight title.  Priced at $74.99, the stacked four-bout pay-per-view event will emanate from The MGM Grand Garden Arena, which will be hosting its 100th championship boxing event.  The Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk world championship event can be ordered by clicking here PPV.COM: Davis-Martin/Benavidez-Gvozdyk

JIM LAMPLEY’S PREVIEW ANALYSIS

David Benavidez vs Oleksandr Gvozdyk:  “Coming off the level of violent destruction he produced against proven defender Demetrius Andrade, Benavidez now seeks to keep building the buzz by dismantling Oleksandr Gvozdyk’s long jab and counterpunching.  Logic says if it is a boxing match, that favors the Ukrainian and if it is a war, that favors the Mexican-American star.  Gvozdyk is an experienced ring thinker, and Benavidez freely admits Gvozdyk gave him some trouble when they sparred a couple of years ago, but there are some gifted power punchers against whom there isn’t enough time to think, and Benavidez is building a compelling case that he is that kind of puncher.  Late Benavidez KO in a very good fight.”

Gervonta Davis vs Frank Martin:  “Martin trained in Derrick James’ camp during the last few weeks of Ryan Garcia’s preparation for Devin Haney.  Tank Davis’ body shot KO’d Garcia in his last previous ring appearance back in January 2023.  Since then, Davis has been stalled by legal obstacles he caused with a hit-and-run accident in February 2023, after which he violated a sentence instruction and wound up in jail.  Now he approaches an opportunity, if he can beat Martin and set up a huge money rematch with Garcia, in which he would likely be favored.  Davis is a rarity, a highly selective power counter puncher with nuanced defensive skills.  With effective personal self-discipline, he could follow in Floyd Mayweather’s footsteps and become pound for pound number one.  So Tank Davis climbs the list if he can follow form and outpunch Frank Martin.  If he does, the focus swings back to matchmaking.  In this fight, Davis by unanimous decision.”

Joining Jim on the viewer chat will be award-winning boxing journalist Lance Pugmire and popular podcast host Dan Canobbio.  Jim, Lance, and Dan, along with former WBO junior welterweight world champion Chis Algieri will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.COM‘s website and social platforms, like Lampley’s interview with Davis after the announcement press conference:  Gervonta “Tank” Davis sits down with PPV.COM’s Jim Lampley ahead of Tank vs. Martin. – YouTube

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk for $74.99 in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including: Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

LANCE PUGMIRE

Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the Boxing Writers Association of America’s highest honor.  He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and The Athletic.  Lance currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.com.

DAN CANOBBIO AND CHRIS ALGIERI

Danand Chris have moved their popular Inside Boxing Livepodcast to PPV.COM, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click hereInside Boxing Live – YouTube. 

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turnkey PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.

LAS VEGAS – June 7, 2024 – Unbeaten top lightweight contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, undefeated former world champion Alberto Puello and WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames held a media workout in Las Vegas on Friday ahead of their respective showdowns on Saturday, June 15 in a PBC Pay-Per-View Event on Prime Video in the 100^th championship fight night to take place at the historic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Martin will challenge boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis for Davis’ WBA Lightweight World Championship in the main event, while Puello duels fellow unbeaten Gary Antuanne Russell in a super lightweight clash, and Adames defends his WBC Middleweight World Championship against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. In the co-main event, undefeated two-time world champion David “El Monstro” 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.

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 Friday from the Pound 4 Pound Gym in Las Vegas:

FRANK MARTIN

“I feel like this is one of those moments where all the hard work I put in is paying off. With all the work I’ve been putting in leading up to the fight, and all the work I’ve put in over the years, this just feels like a life changing moment. This is my time to come out on top.

“I just need to be composed, be calm and be who I am. I can’t let any of the antics or crowd or the noise get in the way of me getting the victory.

“I feel like this is gonna be a good fight. We all know what ‘Tank’ brings, but a lot of guys don’t know what I bring. They know a little bit of it, but they don’t know the full arsenal I have.

“We know ‘Tank’ is explosive and fast. He’s got it all, but on fight night, the world will see that I’ve got it all too. So it’s gonna be two dogs in there locking up like pitbulls. The best man will win that night.

“I believe in myself, even if the world is against me. I know the work that I put in. I feel like I was born to do this. I feel it in my body. It’s just time for me to show up and show out.

“I expect Gervonta to come out and put his best foot forward. He’s gonna be him. I know he’s all the way locked in for me. I know he felt the energy from me and he knows I’m coming to win.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“I feel really strong. It’s been a great training camp. I’m extremely ready to take advantage of this great opportunity that I have. I’m thankful to my team for putting me in this position and I’m going to show why I deserve to be here.

“Gary Antuanne Russell is a great fighter and someone who packs a lot of power. He doesn’t have many weaknesses, but I do believe that I’ve found his. I’m going to expose it and look for more when we’re in the ring.

“I’m very comfortable fighting against another southpaw. I’ve sparred against nothing but southpaws, so I couldn’t be more prepared.

“There’s nothing better than fighting on a card like this, with my eyes set on showing that I’m ready to earn another world championship. I’m representing my country of the Dominican Republic and I promise my fans that it will be a great show and that I’m going to win.”

CARLOS ADAMES

“I’ve always had that championship mentality, so nothing has changed for me now that I am the world champion. It’s just a matter of continuing to use that approach going forward.

“Gausha is an accomplished fighter who’s faced a lot of great opponents, but he’s never been in the ring with Carlos Adames. He’s going to realize what that’s like on June 15.

“I’ve gone to another level in sparring in training camp. Throughout camp I’ve felt myself exceed all of the people I spar. That’s how I know that I’m ready for this fight.

“At the level of conditioning that I’m at right now, I couldn’t feel any better. I’m sharp and I’m ready to defend my title in tremendous fashion next Saturday night.”

#         #         #

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

LAS VEGAS – June 7, 2024 – Three exciting showdowns featuring top contenders, former champions and more will highlight PBC on Prime Video action Saturday, June 15 leading up to the Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk PBC Pay-Per-View Event on Prime Video marking the 100^th championship fight night to take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. These three preliminary matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

The live streaming presentation will be topped by rising middleweight Elijah García taking on contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 10-round attraction and also features former world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo facing Mexican contender Eduardo Ramirez in a 10-round super featherweight clash. Opening up the stream at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT is hard-hitting welterweight Roiman Villa battling Mexico’s Ricardo Salas in a 10-round fight.

These bouts will lead into a stacked pay-per-view lineup topped by undefeated three-division champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, plus David “El Monstro” Benavidez makes 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 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.

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.

“Once again fans tuning into Prime Video will be treated to a jam-packed lineup of action fights leading into the Saturday, June 15 PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Topping the show is the sensational and fast-rising middleweight Elijah Garcia, who can test his championship mettle against the always tough Kyrone Davis. Adding in the Magsayo vs. Ramirez and Villa vs. Salas bouts promises power-punching and drama throughout these prelims.”

**ELIJAH GARCIA VS. KYRONE DAVIS**

Looking to stamp his 160-pound contender status after a huge 2023 campaign, the 21-year-old Elijah García will return for a 10-round showdown against tough middleweight contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis, who can make his own name at middleweight with a signature victory on June 15. Garcia and Davis were originally set to clash in March before Garcia was forced to withdraw on the morning of the weigh-in due to illness. 

Fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, García (16-0, 13 KOs) earned three impressive victories in 2023, kicking off his year last March with a knockout of the previously unbeaten Amilcar Vidal. He followed that up with a pair of performances on the undercards of two of the biggest events of the year, first defeating Kevin Salgado on the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia pay-per-view in April before knocking out Armando Resendiz on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo pay-per-view in September. The precocious García has moved fast since turning pro in 2020 and has knocked out seven of his last nine opponents.

“I’m excited to be back in the ring for another big event,” said García. “Fighting on these major events is an incredible blessing and I plan on delivering another great performance. Kyrone Davis has been in the ring with some very good fighters, and it will be a challenging fight, but my plan is to get the win by any means necessary. I’m really happy we were able to reschedule the fight, because fans are going to see an incredible night of boxing on June 15 and everyone should be tuning in.”

The 29-year-old Davis (18-3-1, 6 KOs) picked up two victories in 2023, dominating Cristian Fabian Rios in January before scoring a unanimous decision over Cruse Stewart in December. Those victories came after a run that saw Davis battle two-time champion Anthony Dirrell to a draw in February 2021, before stepping in as a late replacement two fights later to drop a hard-fought contest against super middleweight superstar David Benavidez. An amateur standout representing Wilmington, Delaware, Davis trains in Philadelphia under the tutelage of top trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.

“Training has been going exactly how we need it to,” said Davis. “I expect an entertaining and high action fight once we actually get in the ring. Winning is the only result I’m settling for. I’m preparing to leave it all in the ring.”

**MARK MAGSAYO VS. EDUARDO RAMIREZ**

In a 10-round super featherweight set to yield a top contender in the 130-pound division, the Filipino power-puncher Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo will take on the longtime contender and Mexican brawler Eduardo Ramirez in a toe-to-toe clash.

A former featherweight world champion, Magsayo (25-2, 17 KOs) captured the WBC 126-pound world title in 2022 by defeating former longtime reigning champion Gary Russell Jr. via decision. Originally from Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines and now fighting out of Southern California, Magsayo would go on to drop the title to Rey Vargas via a narrow split-decision, in a July 2022 contest that saw Magsayo send Vargas to the canvas in round nine. Magsayo would go on to engage in a memorable toe-to-toe battle with former champion Brandon Figueroa in March 2023, losing the decision after 12 rounds. Most recently, the 28-year-old debuted at 130 pounds with a third-round knockout of Isaac Avelar last December.

“I want to show everybody that I feel strong at 130 pounds and that I’m ready to become a two-division world champion,” said Magsayo. “Eduardo Ramirez is a tough fighter and we’re going to give the fans an action packed fight, just like always. Make sure you come out or tune-in to this fight, because I’m ready to show everybody what I can do and give everyone a great show.”

Fighting out of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Ramirez (28-3-3, 13 KOs) is an established super featherweight and featherweight contender through a career that’s seen him take down contenders including Luis Melendez, Miguel Marriaga, Miguel Flores, Leduan Barthelemy and Brayan De Gracia. The 31-year-old moved up to lightweight in 2022, dropping a showdown with now 140-pound world champion Isaac Cruz. In his last outing, Ramirez returned to stop Sebastian Diaz Maldonado in the sixth round of their August 2023 duel.

“My opponent and I are both very hungry to get this win and show that we’re still some of the best fighters in the division,” said Ramirez. “Each of us knows how important this fight is, and that will make it an exciting fight for the fans. I’m going to use this victory to springboard into a world title fight.”

**ROIMAN VILLA VS. RICARDO SALAS**

One of the hardest punchers in the welterweight division, Roiman Villa will step back into action after going toe-to-toe with welterweight champion Jaron Ennis in his last bout, as he competes in a 10-round welterweight attraction against the young and hungry Ricardo Salas, who’s trained by Isaac Cruz Sr., the father and trainer of WBA 140-Pound World Champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz.

A native of Rosario, Venezuela, Villa (26-2, 24 KOs) gave Ennis perhaps the toughest fight of the unbeaten fighter’s career last July before losing the bout in round 10. Previously, Villa had delivered one of 2023’s biggest upsets in January by earning a majority decision victory over the then-undefeated top contender Rashidi Ellis. In an exciting action bout, Villa broke through in the 12^th and final round as he dropped Ellis twice to clinch the career-changing win. The 31-year-old made a memorable U.S. debut in September 2022 as he dropped the previously unbeaten Janelson Bocachica on his way to a unanimous decision. The only other blemish on his resume came via a 2019 split-decision in Mexico against Marcos Vilasana.

“I’m very happy to be returning to the ring and I’m ready to chase my dream of becoming world champion,” said Villa. “This is a great opportunity and I want to thank my team for putting me in this position. I learned a lot in my last fight and I’m looking forward to showing off my new skills on June 15.”

The 25-year-old Salas (19-2-2, 14 KOs) is unbeaten in his last five outings, with three KO victories and two draws. A native of Mexico City who trains alongside Mexican star Isaac Cruz, he’ll be making his U.S. debut on June 15 looking to make a big splash to open up the live streaming lineup. Salas however has experience fighting outside of his home country, having won fights in Canada and Jamaica. A pro since 2016, both of Salas’ defeats came via split decision.

“Ever since I started boxing, my goal was to fight in the U.S. and in Las Vegas like my idol Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. did,” said Salas. “Now both of those goals are being achieved in the same night, and I can’t wait. I’m going to make sure that everyone knows my name after this fight. I’m thankful to my whole team and I’m extremely motivated and excited to step into the ring.”

#         #         #

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

NEW YORK (June 5, 2024) — PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, returns to the ring  when it live streams to boxing fans, in the U.S. and Canada, the summer’s most exciting boxing card on U.S. soil, featuring undefeated superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstruo” Benavidez in separate title fights.  A three-division world champion, Davis (29-0, 27 KOs), from Baltimore, Maryland, will defend his WBA lightweight world title against the WBA’s no. 2 world-rated contender Frank Martin (18-0, 12 KOs), from Indianapolis, Indiana.  Fresh from a brutal stoppage victory of previously undefeated former two-division world champion Demetrius Andrade,  Benavidez (28-0, 24 KOs), from Las Vegas, Nevada, will move up in weight to challenge former WBC light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk (20-1, 16 KOs), who fights out of Oxnard, California.  They will be battling for the vacant interim WBC light heavyweight title.  The stacked four-bout pay-per-view event will take place next Saturday, June 15, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, emanating from The MGM Grand Garden Arena, which will be hosting its 100th championship boxing event.  Priced at $74.99, the Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk world championship event can be ordered by clicking here PPV.COM: Davis-Martin/Benavidez-Gvozdyk

“June 15 will provide further evidence of whether Tank Davis ranks among the top five pound for pound, and if so, how close to the top??  It’s also an opportunity for David Benavidez to establish a meaningful 175-pound marker against a battle-tested opponent with a noteworthy background as both an amateur and a professional.  A stunning upset in either fight would mark a new identity threshold for Frank Martin or Oleksandr Gvozdyk.  We’ll be there to identify the bottom line,” said Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley, who will be co-hosting the exclusive viewer chat, in real time, during the PPV.COM Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk world championship event live stream. 

Joining Jim on the viewer chat will be award-winning boxing journalist Lance Pugmire and popular podcast host Dan Canobbio.  Jim, Lance, and Dan, along with former WBO junior welterweight world champion Chis Algieri will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.COM‘s website and social platforms, like Lampley’s interview with Davis after the announcement press conference:  Gervonta “Tank” Davis sits down with PPV.COM’s Jim Lampley ahead of Tank vs. Martin. – YouTube

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk for $74.99 in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including: Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

LANCE PUGMIRE

Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the Boxing Writers Association of America’s highest honor.  He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and The Athletic.  Lance currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.com.

DAN CANOBBIO AND CHRIS ALGIERI

Danand Chris have moved their popular Inside Boxing Livepodcast to PPV.COM, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click hereInside Boxing Live – YouTube. 

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turnkey PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.

LAS VEGAS – May 23, 2024 – Fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard for the much anticipated PBC Pay-Per-View event headlined by the Gervonta Davis vs. Frank Martin and David Benavidez vs. Oleksandr Gvozdyk title showdowns previewed their respective matchups during a virtual press conference Thursday before they step into the ring on Saturday, June 15 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Featured during the virtual presser were 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.

Headlining the stacked lineup is undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, plus 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.

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 Thursday:

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“I want to bring boxing back to its natural state. I want to climb the ladder and fight who I’m supposed to. I want to fight the guys with great credentials. We’re going to keep working toward the top.

“Puello is another opponent who’s in the way. There’s a lot of opponents and they’re all in the way. We’re on a mission and I plan to execute.

“My focus is so locked in right now. It’s hard for me to say he’s got a chance, not to be disrespectful. My father always said there’s three types of fighters: those who need it, those who want it and those who like it. And they all bring a different level of hunger. I’m all three of them, but instead of liking it, I love it.

“I love the bright lights. It’s part of my life. It’s really second nature. This is my world now. At this point, I just want to excel.

“I know my dad would tell me to hit and not get hit, keep your hands high, don’t relax. Right now he’s here in spirit, and I will spontaneously hear certain things that he’ll say to me. I want to honor his name and make sure that all he worked for does not go in vain.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“I’m thrilled to be back on such a tremendous card on June 15. I’m going to give the best of myself in the ring like I always do, and give the fans what they deserve, which is a great fight.

“Gary is a good fighter, but he’s not the one who’s gonna stop my momentum. I’m going in there to get the win.

“I know this is not going to be an easy fight. But I possess all the tools needed to stop Gary or any opponent in front of me.

“I have to follow the game plan. I’m working hard every day, having great sparring sessions and getting ready to be at my best on June 15.

“’The Wasp’ is coming back to sting like never before. I’m ready to make a statement and prove that I’m at the top of this division.

“This fight could definitely steal the show. This opponent is a tough nut to crack, but I know that we’re going to give the fans an unforgettable fight.”

CARLOS ADAMES

“I’m very excited to be stepping into the ring once again. It’s been a while since I’ve been in the ring, but I’ve been in the gym for a long time getting into the best shape possible mentally and physically.

“I want to make a really big statement. Not just for me, but for my supporters. I owe it to everyone who helped me get here. I made a commitment to be on top and I like to keep my promises.

“I’m not concerned about Gausha’s resume or who he’s fought, because I’m the best fighter he’s gonna face. I’m the best fighter in the 160-pound division, so he better be ready for what he’s coming up against. I’m not underestimating anyone, but I’m not worried about his experience.

“June 15 is going to be full of spectacle and fireworks, because I’m relentless in the ring. My opponents know everything is on the line when they step in against me. I’m definitely going to show I’m the best middleweight in the world.

“Gausha has the reputation of a guy who’s hard to knock down, but he hasn’t felt my power yet. I’ll tip my hat to him if he can go the distance. Either way, I’m not focusing on the knockout. I’m making sure I’m ready for anything that happens in the ring.  

“I was truly happy to be elevated to world champion on my birthday. That news was just the cherry on top of my birthday. What I really wanted was for Jermall Charlo to fight me, but he made his choice.”

TERRELL GAUSHA

“I’m very confident and blessed to be in this position. I’m one of the type of guys that you can’t just run over. I’m the easiest person to make a fight with, because I don’t fear anybody.  

“Carlos Adames is a very solid fighter who brings a lot to the table. Everyone has holes and I’ve been watching him since I moved up to middleweight. I know he brings the action and I’ve been preparing for a fight like this.

“I’m more comfortable now at middleweight. I can just focus on training, because I’m already on weight. I don’t make any excuses, but getting down to 154 put more wear and tear on my body.

“I fight the best. That’s what I do. We’ll see come June 15 who the best is. Styles make fights. I don’t fear him and he doesn’t fear me. That’s gonna make it an exciting fight for the fans.

“I’m just ready to get what’s mine. I’m here for a reason. I don’t take this opportunity lightly. There’s no pressure for me. I’m just looking to go put on a great show.

“I feel confident coming into this fight. We’re putting the work in. I never cut corners and I’m a true professional. I’m coming to get the win. I have a great team behind me and we’re prepared for sure.”

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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 Monstruo” Benavídez 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

LAS VEGAS – May 20, 2024 – A pair of title showdowns will round out a stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video co-headlined by separate showdowns featuring popular superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstruo” Benavídez taking place Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. A jam-packed four-bout pay-per-view lineup will highlight the historic 100^th championship fight night at the popular sports and entertainment venue.

Undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell will 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.

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.

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.

“June 15 will deliver a lineup truly stacked with the best talent in the sport from start to finish,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Already featuring Gervonta Davis and David Benavídez in intriguing showdowns, the card will also include the powerful Gary Antuanne Russell, as he makes his claim as the future of the 140-pound division against an undefeated Alberto Puello, while Carlos Adames can stake out his spot as the world’s top middleweight with another victory, this time against the always tough Terrell Gausha. This monumental display of talent is truly worthy of the 100^th championship fight night at the historic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.”

**GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL VS. ALBERTO PUELLO**

The pay-per-view lineup will feature Gary Antuanne Russell, the latest star in the fighting Russell family’s dynasty, as he steps in for a 12-round showdown against former world champion Alberto Puello. The 140-pound clash will be contested for the Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title.

Fighting out of his native Capitol Heights, Md., Russell (17-0, 17 KOs) will carry on the legacy left by his late father Gary Sr. A member of one of the sport’s preeminent fighting families, Russell trains alongside his older brothers, former WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and bantamweight contender Gary Antonio. The 27-year-old has yet to allow an opponent to make it to the final bell since turning pro in 2017 following his run representing the U.S. at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics. Russell defeated his most accomplished foes to date in 2022, stopping former champion Viktor Postol in February before a TKO win against former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in July. Most recently, he blasted out the previously undefeated Kent Cruz in one round last August.

“Being at the top is only meant for one person, but the journey is always meant to have an audience,” said Russell. “Make sure you watch this pay-per-view on June 15, because everyone knows what I bring when fight night comes.”

Puello (22-0, 10 KOs) returned to action last December, his first bout since winning his world title, as he scored a unanimous decision victory over the previously unbeaten Ector Madera. Puello captured the WBA Super Lightweight World Championship with a victory over Batyr Akhmedov in August of 2022. A native of San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic, Puello now resides and trains in Las Vegas. Puello first shot up the rankings in July 2019, when he bested the previously unbeaten Jonathan Alonso via unanimous decision to capture an interim title. The 29-year-old also owns a unanimous decision triumph over VeShawn Owens in his U.S. debut that came in July 2021.

“It’s a great honor to be fighting on this platform on June 15,” said Puello. “I’ve been waiting patiently for a fight like this and now is the time to show the world that I’m worthy of the opportunity. Gary Antuanne Russell is exactly the type of opponent I want right now, because I know what a victory will do for my career. There’s a belt on the line and I’m coming to win it by any means necessary.”

**CARLOS ADAMES VS. TERRELL GAUSHA**

Recently elevated after making two defenses of his interim belt, Carlos Adames will step in to make the first defense of his WBC Middleweight World Championship when he faces the former world title challenger Terrell Gausha in a matchup that kicks off pay-per-view action.

Adames (23-1, 18 KOs) has become a force in the middleweight division as he looks to establish himself as number one in the historic weight class. The 30-year-old’s last outing saw him earn a ninth-round TKO of former unified world champion Julian Williams in their June 2023 clash. Prior to that triumph, Adames bested top contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko in December 2021 and followed that up by knocking out Juan Macias Montiel in the third round to capture his interim belt in October 2022. Adames was born in Comendador, Dominican Republic, lives in Washington Heights, New York and trains in Las Vegas. He established himself as a contender with a slew of victories over the likes of former champion Carlos Molina, Frank Galarza, Joshua Conley and Alejandro Barrera, with his only defeat coming by narrow decision in a 2019 154-pound title fight against Patrick Teixeira.

“I’m very excited to be back fighting in Las Vegas on a mega fight card, especially making the first defense of my WBC Middleweight World Championship,” said Adames. “Terrell Gausha has a lot of experience fighting at the top level in the pros and in the amateurs. I know this is a tough fight and that makes me focus even more in training. Right now my mind is right, my body feels great and I’m going to be able to put on a spectacular performance for everybody watching on June 15. I’m going to defend my title with everything I’ve got.”

A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, Gausha (25-3-1, 12 KOs) was born in Cleveland, Ohio but now fights out of Encino, Calif. and is trained by the renowned Manny Robles. He enters this fight having won his last two bouts as he knocked out Brandyn Lynch in March of last year before winning a decision over KeAndrae Leatherwood in September. Gausha has faced top competition throughout his career, having fought former champion Austin Trout to a draw in 2019 in addition to decision losses against former champions Erislandy Lara and Tim Tszyu and top contender Erickson Lubin.

“I’ve been training since way before this fight was signed and I’m feeling ready for the challenge,” said Gausha. “Adames is a good fighter, but so am I. I’m confident that I’m gonna come out on top on June 15. My experience and my skill set are gonna be huge factors that help me get this victory.”

#         #         #

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

LAS VEGAS – May 6, 2024 – Two of boxing’s most exciting and popular superstars will share center stage as five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavídez compete in separate attractions Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The two fighters will headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video in what will be the historic 100^th championship fight night at the popular sports and entertainment venue.

The undefeated three-division champion Davis will defend 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. This one-of-a-kind event will give viewers the unique opportunity to see two bona fide fan-favorites on the same night in high-stakes championship clashes.

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.

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.

Tickets for the live event go on sale Wednesday, May 8 beginning at 10 a.m. PT and will be available through www.axs.com. 

Pre-sale tickets will be available TOMORROW, Tuesday, May 7 from 10 a.m. PT to 10 p.m. PT through www.axs.com with the code: BOXING

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

“Saturday, June 15 will be a spectacular night of boxing with two true superstars of the sport combining forces to deliver can’t-miss action,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Gervonta Davis has proven his star power again and again, and will return to defend his world title against another tough challenge in the undefeated Frank Martin. David Benavídez established himself as a pound-for-pound force last year, and will now seek out dominance in a new weight class against the powerful former champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk. Make sure you tune into this PBC Pay-Per-View event or come out to the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.”

“Oleksandr Gvozdyk is a very good fighter, but David Benavídez is forging a path to greatness,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “I commend David for not wanting to wait for Canelo, and for making this bold move to a new division. One way or another, David will continue growing his legacy as a true champion.”

“Saturday, June 15 is going to be like a movie. Frank Martin has put a tremendous amount of work in to get to this point and now it’s time for him to reap the benefits,” said pound-for-pound star Errol Spence Jr., Martin’s promoter. “Gervonta Davis is a great champion, but on that night, he’s going to be matched against a young, hungry and explosive talent ready to shine on the biggest stage. I expect all the fight fans to tap into what will be the biggest event of the year.”

**GERVONTA DAVIS VS. FRANK MARTIN**

Headlining the event will be the return of undefeated boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis as he puts his WBA Lightweight World Championship on the line in a 12-round clash against consensus top-five lightweight contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, who will vie for a world title for the first time in his career.

Davis (29-0, 27 KOs) has held the lightweight title since 2019 and has also won world titles at 130 and 140 pounds during his spectacular career. The Baltimore-native put an emphatic end to a years-long rivalry with Ryan Garcia last year in a crossover fight that gripped the sports world, dropping him in round two before ending the action with a vicious body shot in round seven.

Prior to that fight, he set a new gate record for Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. in January when he stopped the previously unbeaten super featherweight world champion Hector Luis Garcia in the ninth round. Before that triumph he added another highlight-reel KO to his resume, as he dispatched longtime rival Rolando Romero with a thudding left hand in February 2022, in another record-setting event at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. The 29-year-old also owns the distinction as the only fighter to stop former three-division champion Leo Santa Cruz and former world champion and current interim welterweight champion Mario Barrios. Davis burst onto the scene with an explosive knockout of Jose Pedraza in 2017 to capture his first world title and won the lightweight strap he currently holds with a 12^th-round KO of former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in 2019.

“I’m excited to be on a card with someone explosive like David Benavidez; this pay-per-view is definitely gonna be worth it,” said Davis. “I’m happy to be back in the ring. That’s where I’m comfortable at. I’m gonna go in there, be flawless, and do what I do best, which is give the fans the best boxing you’ll see. Come June 15, Frank Martin is gonna see there’s a different beast in front of him.”

The 29-year-old Martin (18-0, 12 KOs) most recently showed that his power can last through a 12-round fight as he dropped the previously unbeaten Artem Harutyunyan in the final frame to clinch a unanimous decision victory last July. His previous outing saw him stamp his status as one of the elite 135-pounders in the sport as he dropped and dominated the then-unbeaten Michel Rivera on his way to a unanimous decision in December 2022. 

Fighting under the Man Down Promotions banner ,led by top pound-for-pound fighter Errol Spence Jr., Martin’s initial ascent at 135-pounds saw him begin by stopping then unbeaten Jerry Perez in April 2021 before dispatching of tough contenders Jackson Marinez, Romero Duno and Ryan Kielczweski. Originally from Indianapolis, Ind., Martin now trains in the Dallas-area under the guidance of highly renowned trainer Derrick James.

“I’ve been locked in for a while now and having a really good training camp,” said Martin. “It’ll be an exciting fight on June 15. I expect to get the best version of ‘Tank’, and he’ll get the best version of me. We’ll have a solid game plan to come out with the win on fight night.”

**DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. OLEKSANDR GVOZDYK**

Co-headlining the event will be the all-action star and two-time world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavídez as he makes his 175-pound debut in a 12-round duel against the power-punching former world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk as they meet for the vacant Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The 27-year-old undefeated Benavídez (28-0, 24 KOs) makes his 2024 debut after a pair of impressive wins marked his standout 2023 campaign. He began the year by besting longtime rival Caleb Plant via unanimous decision in a slugfest from March and followed it up by stopping the previously unbeaten two-division champion Demetrius Andrade in six rounds in November. Benavídez became the youngest-ever 168-pound world champion at just 20-years-old when he defeated Ronald Gavril by split decision for the vacant WBC title in 2017. A Phoenix-native who now lives in Seattle and currently trains in Miami, Benavidez has stamped his place in the super middleweight division but will now look to carry his prodigious talents up to light heavyweight for this fight.

When he was 15 years old, Benavídez went from weighing 250 pounds to a boxing prodigy under the watchful eye of his father and trainer, Jose, Sr., and his brother and veteran contender Jose Jr., as he famously held his own in sparring against middleweight champions Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin as a teenager. Benavídez rode a string of six straight knockout victories heading into the bout against Plant, including KOs of former world champions Anthony Dirrell and David Lemieux.

“I’m very excited to be going to the light heavyweight division to compete against the best 175-pound fighters,” said Benavídez. “I’ve been eyeing that division for a long time, and now I feel like it’s my time. I’m going to go unify the division. I’ve watched Gvozdyk for a long time – I know exactly how he fights. I actually sparred him when I was 20 years old and I know he’s a really tough opponent, so I need to be 100%. This is a hard fight, but I’m going to make it look easy.”

After earning a bronze medal representing his native Ukraine at the 2012 Olympics, Gvozdyk (20-1, 16 KOs) turned pro in 2014 and quickly set his sights on the top of the division. He dominated a slew of veteran contenders including Yunieski Gonzalez, Isaac Chilemba, Tommy Karpency and Nadjib Mohammedi on his way to becoming the WBC’s top rated mandatory challenger at 175-pounds. He went on to become WBC champion with an 11^th-round knockout of Adonis Stevenson and defended the title in 2019 by stopping Doudou Ngumbu in round five.

After losing the belt in a unification match against Artur Beterbiev, Gvozdyk returned in 2023 to score three straight victories. He bested Josue Obando in February before knocking out Ricards Bolotniks in May and Isaac Rodrigues in September. Now training and residing in California, Gvozdyk’s amateur career saw him compete in over 250 bouts, including three Ukrainian National Championships that led to his Olympic success.

“I’ve never avoided any challenges, and this is no exception,” said Gvozdyk. “Benavidez is a top caliber fighter and that’s exactly what motivates me to train hard each and every day. If you want to be the best, you have to fight the best. I’m ready to become a champion once again.”

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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