Gabriel Rosado stopped Glen Tapia in round six of a scheduled 10 round middleweight bout at the Monte Carlo Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

It was all Rosado as he cut Tapia in the first round and an ugly welt started to form on the forehead in round three. Rosado continued to wale away on Tapia with little resistance from Tapia.

Finally in round six, Rosado wobbled, hurt and put down Tapia with a furious combination. Rosado was all over a basically defenseless Tapia and referee Robert Byrd stopped the bout at 1:15.

Rosado of Philadelphia now 24-11 with 13 knockouts. Tapia of Passaic, NJ is 23-5.

“Tapia’s the type of guy that when you hurt him, he’ll come forward,” said Rosado. “It was very important to get the win. It was important to make a statement, to be impressive, to put myself back into the mix. I want Canelo Alvarez, Danny Jacobs, or a rematch with David Lemieux. I want to prove that I still have something.”

KeAndre Gibson won a 10-round majority decision over Alejandro Barrera in a junior welterweight bout.

In round two, Barrera started to bleed from his nose. In round four, Gibson was cut over his left eye.

In round six, Barrera was cut over his left eye. In round seven, he was cut over the right eye.

Gibson won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 95-95, and is now 18-1-1. Barrera is 27-4.

“I feel good, you know. I feel great,” said Gibson. “I beat an experienced guy, though I think that I could’ve done a better. I’m going to box a little more next time. I’m going to control my distance more and relax. It was a good fight.”

“I feel sad because of the defeat,” said Barrera. “I should’ve done more defensive movements, so I’ll work on that for next time.”

LAS VEGAS (Sept. 21, 2017) Gabriel “King” Rosado (23-11, 13 KOs) and Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia (23-4, 15 KOs) are set to collide in a battle between two experienced middleweights in the 10-round main event of the October 19 edition of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN at Park Theater at Monte Carlo Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. The ESPN 3 livestream of the undercard bouts begins at approximately 6:30 p.m. PT/9:30 p.m. ET. The ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes transmission will begin at 8:00 p.m. PT/11:00 p.m. ET.

Rosado is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania known for his willingness to fight anyone and anywhere. The 31-year-old has taken on a who’s who of middleweight champions and contenders, including unified middleweight champion Gennady “GGG” Golovkin, former IBF middleweight titlist David Lemieux and former WBO 160-pound champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin. Rosado will look to get another chance at the middleweight rankings against a dangerous opponent with power in both hands.

Tapia, of Passaic, New Jersey, has also faced top competitors in two divisions, including tough fights against James “Mandingo Warrior” Kirkland, David Lemieux and Jason “El Animal” Quigley. Both men are eager for another defining win in their careers, which promises for an exciting battle with years of hard work on the line.

In the co-main event scheduled for 10 rounds, Alejandro “El Elegido” Barrera (27-3, 17 KOs), of Nuevo Leon, Mexico, will take on KeAndre “The Truth” Gibson (17-1-1, 7 KOs) in a welterweight fight. Barrera was last seen beating Eddie “E-Boy” Gomez via upset split decision on the July 29 edition of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN and will look to do the same against Gibson, a native of St. Louis, Missouri whose only lost was against the top super lightweight contender Antonio “Relentless” Orozco.

Las Vegas featherweight prospect Francisco Esparza (6-0, 2 KOs) will battle against a soon-to-be announced opponent in a six-round featherweight swing bout. Opponents for Israel Duffus (15-4, 12 KOs), a Los Angeles native who will compete in a six-round super middleweight bout, and Bekman Soylybayev (11-0, 4 KOs), who will defend his WBC International Super Featherweight title in a ten-round fight, will be announced shortly.

Opening the night’s festivities will be Randy Moreno (9-1, 8 KOs) of Las Vegas who will face Jesus Aguinaga (5-5-2) of Phoenix, Ariz. in six-round super featherweight fight.

Rosado vs. Tapia is a 10-round middleweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, BORN BOLD and Hennessy, Never Stop, Never Settle. The event will be held at Park Theater at Monte Carlo in Las Vegas. The ESPN 3 livestream of the undercard bouts begins at approximately 6:30 p.m. PT/9:30 p.m. ET. The ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes transmission will begin at 8:00 p.m. PT/11:00 p.m. ET.

Tickets priced at $25, $45, $65 and $85, not including taxes or fees, for Rosado vs. Tapia will go on sale, Friday Sept. 22 at 10:00 a.m. PT. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call the Ticketmaster Contact Center at (800) 745-3000. Tickets will also be available for purchase online at www.ticketmaster.com, www.ParkTheaterLV.com, or visiting any MGM Resorts Ticket Office.

Media interested in attending Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN: Rosado vs. Tapia must be pre-approved for credentials. Credential applications are due Friday, Oct. 13, 2017 at 5:00 p.m., and can be found here. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval for a credential. You cannot transfer your credentials to someone else. Media will not be credentialed on-site, no exceptions.

Videos and images are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/RosadoTapia. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com; follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya, @ESPN and @ESPNBoxeo; become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/espn.fnf, and www.facebook.com/ESPNBoxeo; and follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya, @ESPNBoxeo. Follow the conversation using #GBPonESPN.

Jason Quigley won a 10-round unanimous decision over Glen Tapia in a middleweight bout at The Fantasy Springs Resort in Indio, California.

Quigley, 150 lbs of Ireland won by a wider margin then most watching had it as the tallies read 100-90, 99-91 and 98-92 and is now 13-0. Tapia, 159 3/4 lbs of Passaic, NJ is 23-4.

Randy Caballero won a 10-round unanimous decision over Jesus Ruiz in a super bantamweight bout.

Cavallero, 121 1/2 lbs of Cochella, CA won by scores of 97-93 and 96-94 twice, and is now 24-0. Ruiz, 121 1/2 lbs of Nogalez, AZ is now 35-8-5.

Two-time Olympian Marlen Esparza won her pro debut by defeating Rachel Sazsoff in a flyweight bout.

Esparza won by scores of 40-36 on all cards. Sazsoff is now 0-3.

LOS ANGELES (March 21, 2017) – The long awaited debut of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN is nearly here. On Thursday, March 23, Irish middleweight contender Jason “El Animal” Quigley (12-0, 10 KOs) will showcase his skills against the hard-punching Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia (23-3, 15 KOs) in a 10-round main event battle for the vacant NABF middleweight title. In the co-main event, Coachella’s Randy “El Matador” Caballero (23-0, 14 KOs) will campaign to become a two-division world champion as he combats for the NABF super bantamweight title against Jesus “Estrella” Ruiz (35-7-5, 24 KOs) in a 10-round affair; and making her pro-debut on the national TV broadcast, 2012 Olympic Bronze medalist and highly decorated amateur Marlen Esparza will participate in a four-round flyweight fight against Rachel Sazoff (0-2).

The fighters shared their final thoughts ahead the fights, which will air live from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

Below is what the fighters had to say:

Jason “El Animal” Quigley, Middleweight Contender:

“I’m delighted to be headlining on ESPN on Thursday; it’s a great honor and opportunity. My camp has been amazing – all the hard work has been put in, and I’m ready. I plan on putting on a great show for my American audience and my friends, family and fans back home in Donegal, Ireland.

“If Tapia wants a war, I’ll give him a war…I’m prepared for anything. Winning this fight brings me one step closer to my dream, winning the NABF title will be fantastic, I still have a long way to go, and am dedicated to making my dream of being a world champion come true.”

Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia, Former WBO NABO Super Welterweight Champion:

“I’m honestly really excited for this fight. Not only because it’s a televised ESPN fight for the NABF title but because it’s been a tough couple of years for my career. People are looking at this like this a make or break fight for me, and even though most people would hate to be in this position, I look at it as an opportunity to bounce back and show the world who Glen Tapia really is!

“I have a lot of fans that believe in me and have been waiting for my return, but I also have a lot of critics that question if I can do this, and that’s a challenge that I’m more than ready to take. My job is not to listen to the critics; my job is to handle my business in that ring and show them why I belong here.At the end of the day, I can sit here and talk about what I’m going to do to Quigley, but the truth is you guys don’t want to hear that. Actions speak louder than words so I’ll just show you guys on March 23rd.”

Randy “El Matador” Caballero,Former IBF World Bantamweight Champion:

“I’m excited to be back in the ring at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. To make it even better I will be co-main event on ESPN. I am so grateful that Golden Boy Promotions is giving the opportunity to show my talents on ESPN.

“As for my opponent I know that he is a tough guy and is coming to win the NABF title. I’m sure this is a dream come true for him. That’s why I need to make sure that I’m 100%.”

Jesus “Estrella” Ruiz, Former WBC FECOMBOX Super Bantamweight Champion:

“I’m feeling very confident because we prepared well. I know we have a tough opponent but we’re ready to come and fight and be victorious come Thursday Night.”

Marlen Esparza, First Female Fighter Signed by Golden Boy Promotions and Former US Olympian:

“Honestly, I just want to get this fight over with! The first fight after a long period of time is the hardest, but my trainer Virgil Hunter has prepared me well to step back in. I know it won’t be the prettiest fight in terms of fighting style, but I need this fight to get back into the Marlen Esparza that was in the Olympics.”

“I feel pretty confident – come fight night, I will be wearing make-up, with my hair done because when I look good, I feel good which makes me fight well. I’m expecting an aggressive fighter, so I’m slowing down my training to just zone out and mentally be there.”

Quigley vs. Tapia is a 10-round battle for the vacant NABF Middleweight title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate “Born BOLD.” Doors open at 4:00 p.m. PT and the first fight begins at 4:00 p.m. PT. The ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes transmission begins live from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. The ESPN3 and WatchESPN App livestream of event will begin at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT through 7:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets priced starting at $25 are available for purchase at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.FantasySprings.com.

Videos and images are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/QuigleyVsTapia. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for any photos/video of Jason Quigley.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com; follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya; become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing; and follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing and @OscarDeLaHoya. Follow the conversation using #GBPonESPN.

LOS ANGELES (March 17, 2017) – St. Patrick’s Day has arrived, and Golden Boy’s very own Irishman, middleweight contender Jason “El Animal” Quigley (12-0, 10 KOs) couldn’t help and show off the “luck of the Irish” in an exclusive meet and greet held for special fans who were decked out in green to show the LA transplant some love. Quigley shared tokens of history of the iconic St. Patrick’s Day, and quizzed fans on their knowledge of the holiday. Notorious for being “El Animal” inside the ring, Quigley revealed his Irish charm in a fun night dedicated to the special Irish celebration.

Quigley will be facing tough opponent Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia (23-3, 15 KOs) in one of the biggest steps in his career yet for the NABF Middleweight title, to be aired live on the inaugural edition of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN this Thursday, March 23rd straight from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.

Quigley vs. Tapia is a 10-round battle for the vacant NABF Middleweight title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate “Born BOLD.” Doors open at 4:00 p.m. PT and the first fight begins at 4:00 p.m. PT. The ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes transmission begins live from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. The ESPN3 and WatchESPN App livestream of event will begin at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT through 7:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets priced starting at $25 are available for purchase at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.FantasySprings.com

Videos and images are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/QuigleyVsTapia. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for any photos/video of Jason Quigley.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com; follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya; become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyPromotions.com; and follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing and @OscarDeLaHoya. Follow the conversation using #GBPonESPN.

LOS ANGELES (March 15, 2017) – Ahead of his anticipated clash, Jason “El Animal” Quigley (12-0, 10 KOs) hosted a media workout in Los Angeles on Wednesday, March 15 to discuss his upcoming bout against Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia (23-3, 15 KOs) for the vacant NABF Middleweight title on Thursday, March 23rd at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, CA. The main event bout will jump start the highly anticipated inaugural edition of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN series, and will be broadcast live on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes.

Below is what “El Animal” had to say at his media work out:

“I’m training at 110%, and I am focused on March 23rd. I feel honored and humbled that Golden Boy has chosen me to lead the ESPN series, and be able to show the world what kind of talent I have, and what type of shows Golden Boy can put together. I have a lot of fans from back home who are coming to the US to support me, and I am honestly so humbled by that. I hope that one day I can give back, and go home to Ireleand to give my hometown fans a special treat.”

“I never focus on what my opponent brings to the table – whether they’re a good fighter, a bad fighter, whether they are talented or not – I am only focused on what I bring to the table that night. I only concentrate on myself, and the fights before me.”

“I love my Mexican fans. In fact, my love of boxing comes from Mexican fighters, especially Marco Antonio Barrera. When I watched him fight for the first time, and saw him transform in the ring I was just hooked on the sport and I knew that I needed to become a boxer.”

“My team and I have done our homework and we have put together a plan A, B, C and D so that come fight night we are prepared for any fighter we might face. Glen Tapia needs to be prepared for what Jason Quigley is bringing to the ring. I’m not going home empty. ”

Quigley vs. Tapia is a 10-round battle for the vacant NABF Middleweight title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate “Born BOLD,” and Hennessey “Never Stop. Never Settle.” Doors open at 4:00 p.m. PT and the first fight begins at 4:00 p.m. PT. The ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes transmission begins live from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

Videos and images are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/QuigleyVsTapia. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for any photos/video of Jason Quigley.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com; follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya; become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, and follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing and @OscarDeLaHoya. Follow the conversation using #GBPonESPN.
Tickets priced starting at $25 are available for purchase at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.FantasySprings.com.

LOS ANGELES (March 1, 2017) – Renowned ring announcer and television personality Michael Buffer will serve as the VIP guest for the action-packed March 23rd ESPN show at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino headlined between Middleweight contenders Jason “El Animal” Quigley (23-3, 15 KOs) and Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia (30-1, 27 KOs) for the vacant NABF Middleweight title.

Best known for iconic trademarked catchphrase, “Let’s get ready to rumble!” Buffer, who is a member of the International Boxing Hall Of Fame, brings nearly forty years of ring announcing to the sport of boxing. As the VIP guest of the night, Buffer will be in attendance for the fights and will be on hand to meet fans, sign autographs and take pictures inside the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center before the ESPN broadcast begins. The meet-and-greet is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the event.

Tickets for the event are on sale now, start at $25 and are available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.FantasySprings.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com; follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya; become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing; and follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing and @OscarDeLaHoya. Follow the conversation using #GBPonESPN.

Quigley vs. Tapia is a 10-round battle for the vacant NABF Middleweight title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate “Born BOLD.” Doors open at 5:00 p.m. PT and the first fight begins at 5:00 p.m. PT. The ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes broadcast begins live from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino starting at 10:00 p.m. ET/7: 00 p.m. PT.

LOS ANGELES (January 27, 2017): Launching its highly anticipated collaboration with a bang, Golden Boy Promotions and ESPN today announced the card for the first broadcast of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN, featuring rising prospects, former world champions and former Olympians. ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes will broadcast the fights live from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California starting at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

“When we signed this historic agreement with ESPN, we promised the best prospects and contenders in Golden Boy’s stable would not just appear, but face solid competition – our opening card makes it clear that we will fulfill that promise,” said Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya.

Topping the card, Irish amateur standout and middleweight contender Jason “El Animal” Quigley (12-0, 10 KOs) looks to continue his meteoric rise up the division with his third consecutive step-up fight against the hard-punching Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia (23-3, 15 KOs) in a 10-round battle for the vacant NABF middleweight title.

“2017 is going to be a big year for me, and I can’t imagine a better way to kick it off than by headlining the first edition of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN,” said Quigley, who is coming off victories over contenders Jorge Melendez and James De La Rosa. “Glen Tapia has faced some of the best in the middleweight and super welterweight divisions, but I am excited to show a huge audience what I’m capable of in the ring.”

“I’ve been in Quigley’s position before, so I know exactly what he’s feeling. He’s trying to prove himself and he’s looking at me like his step up,” Tapia said. “At the end of the day, because of my last performances, I feel like I really don’t have the privilege to speak on what I’m going to do, but just know that I’ll be more than ready to show Quigley and the boxing fans that I am more than just a step up.”

In the co-main attraction, Coachellahometown hero Randy “El Matador” Caballero (23-0, 14 KOs) will launch his campaign to become a two-division world champion when he goes head-to-head with Victor “Pitufo” Proa (28-2, 21 KOs) in a 10-round super bantamweight affair.

“I am so happy to be coming back to the ring, and to do so in front of my hometown fans and on ESPN – I couldn’t ask for anything more,” Caballero said. “I know Proa will be hungry and looking to get back into the winner’s column, but I am going to show everyone that I am back and better than ever.”

Hoping to make the TV broadcast, 2012 Olympic Bronze medalist and highly decorated amateur Marlen Esparza will make her professional debut against a fighter to be announced in a four-round flyweight fight.

Two additional fights of the card will be live streamed on ESPN3, and available in English and Spanish. Former interim world champion Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (22-7, 7 KOs) will be in action against rugged veteran Hector “Charro Negro” Velazquez (57-28-3, 39 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight showdown. Herrera, who has been on the short side of controversial decisions to a number of world champions, will return to his Southland roots looking to get back into title contention.

Also, Azat “Attack” Hovhannisyan (10-2, 9 KOs) will look to build on a four-fight winning streak when he faces off in an eight-round super bantamweight fight against Hugo “Olimpico” Partida (21-8-2, 16 KOs). Opening up the card, highly regarded prospect and local Indio resident Saul Sanchez (2-0, 1 KO) will appear in a four-round bantamweight battle against an opponent to be named later.

Tickets for the event are on sale now, start at $25 and are available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.FantasySprings.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com; follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya; become a fan on Facebook at
www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing; and follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing and @OscarDeLaHoya. Follow the conversation using #GBPonESPN.

Quigley vs. Tapia is a 10-round battle for the vacant NABF Middleweight title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate “Born BOLD.” Doors open at 5:00 p.m. PT and the first fight begins at 5:00 p.m. PT. The ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes broadcast begins live from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino starting at 10:00 p.m. ET/7: 00 p.m. PT.

About Golden Boy Promotions
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy Promotions was established in 2002 by 10-time world champion in six divisions Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy Promotions is one of boxing’s most active and respected promoters, presenting shows in packed venues around the world. In its 15-year existence, Golden Boy Promotions has promoted some of the biggest and highest grossing events in the history of the sport.

About ESPN
ESPN, Inc. is the leading multinational, multimedia sports entertainment company featuring the broadest portfolio of multimedia sports assets with over 50 business entities. Based in Bristol, Conn., ESPN Plaza includes 950,000 square feet in 16 buildings on 123 acres (116 contiguous), with additional office space (400,000 sq. ft.) rented nearby. The company is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc., an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company. The Hearst Corporation holds a 20 percent interest in ESPN. For more information, visit http://www.espn.com/boxing, @ESPNBoxing

Follow all the action as Canelo Alvarez defends the Middleweight title against Amir Khan.  The action begins at 9 PM ET / 6 PM PT with a 3 fight undercard with David Lemieux battling Glen Tapia; Mauricio Herrera taking on Frankie Gomez and Patrick Teixeria fighting Curtis Stevens

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Round 1 Hard right from Khan…Combination…right to body from Canelo…Hard left hook..left

Round 2 Alvarez reaches for a right to the body..1-2 from Khan..Left hook from Alvarez..

Round 3 Canelo lands a left hooks..Khan lands a 1-2

Round 4 Good right from Khan…Right to body from Canelo…Left to the body..Counter left from Khan…

Round 5 Canelo lands a right..Good right to the body

Round 6 Hard body shot and left to head from Canelo…Good right from Khan…Jab from Canelo…HUGE RIGHT AND DOWN GOES KHAN AND KHAN IS NOT MOVING FLAT ON HIS BACK

Round 2 Body shot and right from Tapia…2 rights…Left hook fro, Lemieux…right..Huge body shot hurts Tapia..2 good body shots from Tapia…

Round 3 Uppercut from Lemieux…Good jab from Tapia…

Round 4 HARD LEFT HOOK AND DOWN GOES TAPIA…TAPIA’S CORNER STOPS THE FIGHT

Round 1 Gomez gets in a left

Round 2 Combination from Gomez…Herrera is cut under the left eye…Good  uppercut

Round 3 Right from Gomez…Herrera lands a good body shot…Gomez lands a good right…

Round 4 Hard right from Gomez..

Round 5 Good combination from Gomez..2 good body shot…

Round 6 Gomez flurries on the ropes..Body shot…

Round 7 Gomez moving…boxing well

Round 8 Herrera flurries

Round 9 Gomez lands a right…jab…Hard right to the body

Round 10 Uppercut and combination..Counter right from Gomez

100-90 on all cards for Frankie Gomez

Round 1 Stevens coming out aggresive..Hard left hurts Texeira

Round  2:  Texeira lands 2 lefts…COUNTER LEFT AND DOWN GOES TEXEIRA…TEXEIRA WOBBLES ON THE WAY UP AND THE FIGHT IS OVER

LAS VEGAS – Canelo Alvarez had none of the speed. None of the footwork. But he had one punch. It was enough and now he has it all.

Canelo’s power was summed up Saturday night in one mighty strike that sent Amir Khan bouncing off the canvas like a flat board off a concrete floor midway through a bout that re-asserted the Mexican’s ability to dictate what’s next. Who’s next.

As a statement, it was as definitive as it was dramatic. It showed just how quickly Canelo (47-1-1, 33 KOs) can turn things, everything and anything, in his favor. For weeks, there was a debate about a 155-pound catch weight for a bout that was his first defense of the WBC’s 160-pound title.

Five pounds here, five pounds there. The power is heavy on any scale. It landed, lightning bolt-like, just when it looked as if a major upset was brewing. Khan’s hand speed and agile feet were giving Canelo fits throughout the first five rounds. In the second round, a knot appeared on Canelo’s right cheek bone. But it was there long enough to become a critical target for Khan’s long and accurate jab.

“I was getting in the ring with a big guy,’’ said Khan, who was taken to a nearby emergency room for observation after the bout. “Unfortunately, I didn’t make it to the end.’’

In one momentary lapse, Khan (31-4, 19 KOs) ducked and Canelo threw a right hand counter that landed like a bomb on a chin that has long been a target. At 2:37 of the sixth round, it was over in knockout in an HBO pay-per-view bout, the first at the new T-Mobile Arena.

The crowd went wild. For a few scary moments, Khan never heard the roar. He was out. The back of his head had bounced off the canvas at least once. A crowd of Nevada officials and corner men surrounded him like paramedics. They waved a white towel in what looked to be desperate attempt at getting him to regain consciousness. It looked like an accident scene.

All the while, Canelo paraded from one side of the ring to the other, celebrating his victory. He waved at Gennady Golovkin, who was in a ringside seat.

“i invited him into the ring,’’ Canelo said. “Like we say in Mexico: ‘We don’t f— around.’

“I don’t fear anyone. We don’t come to play in this sport. I fear no one in this sport.’’

When asked if he would fight GGG this year in a title defense mandated by the WBC, Canelo said he was ready.

“Right now,’’ he said. “Right now, I’ll put on the gloves.’’

That didn’t happen, of course. And there’s still doubt about whether it will happen later this year. Canelo has all the leverage, which means he could continue to demand a 155-pound catch-weight, even at the risk of having the WBC title stripped from his thick waist.

“Gennady, Gennady where are you?’’ Canelo promoter Oscar De La Hoya said from the ring after the bout. “We want to talk to you, talk to and your representatives tomorrow.’’

According to the WBC, Canelo has 15 days to negotiate a deal with GGG.

“I am old school,’’ Golovkin said before opening bell. “Middleweight is 160. I respect the sport of boxing.”

But Canelo holds the upper hand at the negotiating table, especially if the pay-per-view audience is anywhere near the one million mark.

For now, all of boxing’s respect and its perks are on Canelo’s side of the table. That’s power, too.
Attachments area

David Lemieux says it’s a beginning.

Frankie Gomez finally passed a test that will allow him to graduate from prospect to contender.

Curtis Stevens changed his nickname.

Diego De La Hoya has more than a legend’s last name. He has some speed and sting in his hands too.

Jason Quigley waved an Irish flag. Danced to Irish music.

Rashidi Ellis walked out of T-Mobile Arena the way he walked in.

It was a double debut.

LAS VEGAS (May 5, 2016) Fighters on the undercard of Canelo vs. Khan hosted a final press conference today at MGM Grand Hotel and Casino ahead of Saturday’s bouts. Co-main event fighters David Lemieux (34-3, 31 KOs) and Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia (23-2, 15 KOs) were joined by Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (22-5, 7 KOs), Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez (20-0, 13 KOs), Patrick Teixeira (26-0, 22 KOs), and Curtis Stevens (27-5, 20 KOs), all of whom will fight on the HBO Pay-Per-View broadcast. They were also joined by preliminary undercard fighters Diego De La Hoya (14-0, 8 KOs), Rocco Santomauro (13-0, 1 KO), Jason “El Animal” Quigley (10-0, 9 KOs), “King” James De La Rosa (23-3, 13 KOs), Lamont Roach, Jr. (10-0, 3 KOs), Rashidi Ellis (14-0, 11 KOs), and David Mijares, who will make his professional debut on Saturday at the new T-Mobile Arena.

Below is what the fighters had to say at today’s undercard final press conference:

ERIC GOMEZ, Senior Vice President for Golden Boy Promotions:

“We have put together a fantastic undercard bursting with talent. From the opening bout to the main event, each of these undercard fights are sure to bring the action and excitement to T-Mobile Arena leading up to the main event.

“Thank you to our broadcast partner, HBO – the best network for boxing. HBO will broadcast three of the undercard fights on Saturday evening including the co-main event between David Lemieux and Glen ‘Jersey Boy’ Tapia; the welterweight showdown between Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera and Frankie ‘Pitbull’ Gomez; and a 10-round matchup for the vacant WBC De Las Americas Middleweight Title between Brazil’s Patrick Teixeira and Brooklyn bomber Curtis ‘Cerebral Assassin’ Stevens.

“To get fight fans ready for the final four bouts of the evening, the Canelo vs. Khan preliminary undercard will present two action-packed battles starring two of the game’s top rising stars, streaming live on HBO Boxing YouTube Page. In a 10-round super bantamweight bout, Mexicali’s Diego De La Hoya will put his perfect record on the line against Shane Mosley’s Rocco Santomauro of Duarte, California, putting back life into the De La Hoya vs. Mosley rivalry.

“Plus, Donegal, Ireland’s Jason ‘El Animal’ Quigley will try to keep his impressive professional run going when he takes on Benito, Texas’ seasoned fighter ‘King’ James De La Rosa in a 10-round middleweight bout.”

BERNARD HOPKINS, Future Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions Business Partner:

“I am excited to be a part of this. Undercard boxers have an opportunity to get into it. Two of the biggest months in boxing are May and September. The middleweight class is my baby and in the conversation and that makes me happy. I’m looking for better fights to come. Enjoy, sit back and write what you write, but pay attention.”

DAVID LEMIEUX, Former IBF Middleweight World Champion:

“It’s great to be here back on the big stage and preform in from of the world again and make a good mark in Vegas. I am extremely excited to perform well. I am ready and very excited to give the fans a great show and they will not be disappointed at the end of the night. Thank you to Golden Boy. I try not to leave anything behind in the gym. We’ll see how Tapia comes with on his end, and I’m excited to see the Canelo – Khan fight.”

GLEN “JERSEY BOY” TAPIA, Middleweight Contender:

“To tell you the truth, I know most of you guys have me losing this fight but I know what I can bring to the table. I learned from all my losses and I can’t wait to show you guys what I can do. And when we look back, we can show you how wrong you were.”

MARVIN SOMODIO, Trainer for Glen Tapia:

“This fight is going to be very tough, Lemieux is ready. Tapia is ready too though. We had a very great camp under Freddie Roach.”

MAURICIO “EL MAESTRO” HERRERA, Former WBA Interim Super Light Weight World Champion:

“I never dreamed of getting this far and I am hoping to stay at this level. I’ve fought six to seven undefeated guys and I gave them hell. Fighting an undefeated fighter is nothing new. I’m a dream killer. Bring me any prospects and lets see if they are the real deal.”

FRANKIE “PITBULL” GOMEZ, Undefeated Welterweight Contender:

“I’m really excited to be apart of this event. I know my opponent is strong, but I am ready to do my best. This is my second opportunity, and I will take advantage of it.”

PATRICK TEIXEIRA, Undefeated Middleweight Prospect:

“I’m really excited to be a part of this event. I know my opponent is strong, but I am ready to do my best. I want to take the future world title back to Brazil.”

CURITS STEVENS, Former World Title Challenger:

“I am physically ready, in great shape, and mentally prepared. Momma said to knock you out.”

JOHN DAVID JACKSON, Trainer for Curtis Stevens:

“People in the sports world have been talking, ‘Is Curtis ready? What makes this opponent great? This is the first fight. He has more experience in the ring.”

DIEGO DE LA HOYA, WBC Youth World Super Bantamweight Champion:

“If he wants to fight I will leave my life in the ring like a war. Like every great Mexican.”

ROCCO SANTOMAURO, Undefeated Super Bantamweight Prospect:

“I want to thank Golden Boy and give a huge thank you Diego De La Hoya. I am here to win. Not a lot of prospects want to take on other undefeated prospects, and we are here to put on a show.”

SHANE MOSLEY, Trainer for Rocco Santomauro:

“I’m excited and it’s like I’m fighting. This will be a great fight on the undercard on Saturday night.”

JASON “EL ANIMAL” QUIGLEY, Middleweight Prospect:

“I’d just to like to take a chance to thank everyone. A lot of Irish fans came out, and I know what I am capable of. I have sparred over 160 rounds. Not only this for this fight, but for every fight, I come at 110 percent. This is why I came from Ireland. Come Saturday night, I’m ready to take care of business.”

JAMES DE LA ROSA, Middleweight Contender:

“I’d like to thank everyone. I want to thank the man upstairs. I hope Quigley’s ready ’cause I’m ready and I’ve trained hard to leave my mark.”

LAMONT ROACH, JR, Undefeated Super Featherweight Prospect:

“Happy Cinco de Mayo! Thank you to everyone for putting me in this position. This is my second Pay-Per-View card. Bernard Hopkins told me to take full advantage of it and obviously I did. I appreciate everything and I am excited.”

RASHIDI ELLIS, Undefeated Super Welterweight Prospect:

“My birthday is fight night. Thank you Golden Boy Promotions. I had the best sparring training, and I am ready to go and ready to give on a show.”

DAVID MIJARES, Super Lightweight Prospect:

“Man, this is something else and I am very fortunate to be treated like this. I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions for the fight and for being on the undercard of these amazing fighters. I can’t wait to get in there and get my job done.”

Canelo vs. Khan, a 12-round fight for Canelo’s WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Championships, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions and sponsored by “Cerveza Tecate, Born Bold,” O’Reilly Auto Parts, Casa Mexico Tequila, DOOM® — Fight Like Hell on May 13, and HANDS OF STONE: The True Story of Roberto Duran, in theaters this August. David Lemieux vs. Glen Tapia is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Eye of the Tiger Management and Patrick Teixeira vs. Curtis Stevens is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Main Events. The mega-event will take place Saturday, May 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets priced at $1,500, $1,000, $800, $600, $400, $250 and $150, not including applicable service charges and taxes, with a total ticket limit of 12 per person (a limit of 10 per person at the $1,500, $1,000, $800, $600 and $400 price levels and a limit of two [2] per person at the $250 and $150 price level) are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.t-mobilearena.com or www.axs.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com or www.hbo.com/boxing, follow us on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @canelo, @amirkingkhan, @OscarDeLaHoya and @HBOboxing, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or www.Facebook.com/HBOboxing, join us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @canelo, @amirkingkhan, @OscarDeLaHoya and @HBOboxing, and follow the conversation using #CaneloKhan.

LAS VEGAS (May 4, 2016) – Fighters featured on the pay-per-view undercard of Canelo vs. Khan, held an open workout for fans at the MGM Grand Hotel & Restort today. Co-main event David Lemieux (34-3, 31 KOs), and Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia (23-2, 15 KOs) who will meet in a 10-round middleweight fight; Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (22-5, 7 KOs) who takes on East Los Angeles’ undefeated star Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez (20-0, 13 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight fight; and Brazilian star Patrick Teixeira (26-0, 22 KOs) and Curtis Stevens (27-5, 20 KOs) who will open up the Pay-Per-View telecast in a 10-round career-defining middleweight bout. They were also joined by Jason “El Animal” Quigley and Diego De La Hoya, who will fight in respective middleweight and super bantamweight bouts on the non-televised undercard.

Below is what the fighters had to say at today’s undercard media workouts:

BERNARD HOPKINS, Future Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions business partner:

“The knock against me years ago was that I didn’t go up in weight – then I showed them I was successful by jumping up two weight classes. And now Amir [Khan] is attempting to do what I did on Saturday and prove them wrong.

“I like Canelo [Alvarez] in the fight. He’ll have a bit of difficulty early, but he’ll calm Amir’s speed down and make it a fight from inside and not a fight from distance. I like a Canelo knockout in the 10th or 11th round – TKO.”

DAVID LEMIEUX, Former IBF Middleweight World Champion:

“My fight with [Glen] Tapia is absolutely at 160 and it’s not going to be an issue making weight. It won’t be a problem dropping the week before, and our program is right on track. I feel great, and I’m very close to making my weight now.

“I’m expecting a hungry Tapia. He’s jumping up weight and wants to prove himself. But he’s going to prove it to the wrong guy. He’s going to lose.

“I’m not here to lose and I am definitely not going to give [Tapia] the chance. I’m going to be merciless on the mat.”

GLEN “JERSEY BOY” TAPIA, Middleweight Contender:

“I’m not killing myself to make this fight. I feel good, I’m full and feel energized because I don’t have to cut so much weight, and I’m happy.

“I need to be smart, use my mind and think in there more than just going in there to brawl. Like Freddie [Roach] says, it’s more about my mind than my heart.

“It’s going to be a fun fight. At the end of the day, I like to entertain but I’ve got to be smart.”

MAURICIO “EL MAESTRO” HERRERA, Former WBA Interim Super Light Weight World Champion:

“Nothing phases me at this point in my career. I’ve been through struggles in my career like all fighters. I’m hungry, I still have fire and nothing is going to get me down. I’ll fight the best and undefeated, whatever it takes.

“It pumped me up when the fight was booked by seeing [Gomez]’s undefeated record. It’s something that motivated me in the gym to work out.

“I hope this weight is a comfortable weight. I feel strong in this weight class, and we’ll see what happens Saturday.

“I want to make an exciting fight for the people, but I do want to win this fight. I have to be very conscientious because Frankie Gomez is a strong puncher – I’ve dealt with him before. I have to play to my strengths and be whom I am.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to fight at the new T-Mobile Arena.”

FRANKIE “PITBULL” GOMEZ, Welterweight Contender:

“I’m always calm before a fight. It’s been like that since I was 5 years old. You know, going in the ring, [Herrera] is a guy just like anyone.

“People think he’s going to come out and take record away from me. I don’t really care what people think, it doesn’t really get to me. But I’m going to use it to motivate me. In the ring, I just let it go.

“On Saturday night, I’m going to show people a different Frankie Gomez.”

PATRICK TEIXEIRA, Undefeated Middleweight Prospect:

“I really prepared for this fight, I trained really hard. I actually went to Argentina for my camp, and I feel 100 percent.

“I expect a tough fight. He’s a tough fighter that throws really hard, but I’m going to throw a lot of punches and I expect to come out with the victory on Saturday.”

CURTIS STEVENS, Former World Title Challenger:

“[Teixeira] has high output numbers. But his punches are very wide, he telegraphs and it’ll really show.

“Working out in Canelo’s camp was a great experience. It really motivated me to stop doing the garbage I was doing and put another good two-to-three years to my career.

“This fight is important, to get past [Teixeira] and get back into title contention. I just gotta take this all the way.”

DIEGO DE LA HOYA, WBC Youth World Super Bantamweight Champion:

“It’ll be a great fight between two undefeated fighters. But we’re both well-prepared and I’m coming out here to win.

“I knew that the Diaz Brothers were going to give me a hard training camp, and hard camp in general with the trainers we had.

“I don’t want to think to far ahead. I want to take care of this fight and let management worry about what comes next.”

JASON “EL ANIMAL” QUIGLEY, Middleweight Prospect:

“This fight is a huge opportunity to showcase my talent, and I’ve trained my ass off for this fight. Diego De La Hoya is an obstacle in the path of my journey and I aim to remove him from that path.

“Boxing’s a game of surprises, but as much as it’s about surprises it’s also about patience and planning. And I’m ready to put on a master-class this Saturday.”

Canelo vs. Khan, a 12-round fight for Canelo’s WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Championships, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions and sponsored by “Cerveza Tecate, Born Bold,” O’Reilly Auto Parts, Casa Mexico Tequila, DOOM® — Fight Like Hell on May 13, and HANDS OF STONE: The True Story of Roberto Duran, in theaters this August. David Lemieux vs. Glen Tapia is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Eye of the Tiger Management and Patrick Teixeira vs. Curtis Stevens is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Main Events. The mega-event will take place Saturday, May 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets priced at $1,500, $1,000, $800, $600, $400, $250 and $150, not including applicable service charges and taxes, with a total ticket limit of 12 per person (a limit of 10 per person at the $1,500, $1,000, $800, $600 and $400 price levels and a limit of two [2] per person at the $250 and $150 price level) are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.t-mobilearena.com or www.axs.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com or www.hbo.com/boxing, follow us on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @canelo, @amirkingkhan, @OscarDeLaHoya and @HBOboxing, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or www.Facebook.com/HBOboxing, join us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @canelo, @amirkingkhan, @OscarDeLaHoya and @HBOboxing, and follow the conversation using #CaneloKhan.

Photos and videos are available for download in the official Canelo vs. Khan press kit here: bit.ly/canelokhan.

LOS ANGELES (April 26, 2016) – Fighters featured on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Amir “King” Khan undercard today hosted a Los Angeles media workout ahead of their upcoming respective bouts set for Saturday, May 7 at the new T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Co-main event fighter Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia (23-2, 15 KOs), former WBA Interim Super Lightweight World Champion Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (22-5, 7 KOs) and undefeated opponent Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez (20-0, 13 KOs) featured on the HBO Pay-Per-View undercard were all in attendance as well as top prospects featured on the non-televised undercard Jason “El Animal” (10-0, 9 KOs) and David Mijares.

Below is what the fighters had to say at today’s Los Angeles media workout:

GLEN “JERSEY BOY” TAPIA, Middleweight Contender:

“This is a big opportunity, we all know what is on the line. I’m so excited.

“I prepare for this fight as I always do – train hard and train smart. I need to train hard for David Lemieux. I need to beat him.

“I know what I can bring to the table. David is fun to watch, but he uses the same style every fight. I’ve watched his last 10 fights. People don’t understand I have a lot of power too. I have a lot of skills to box. All I am thinking about is fighting Lemieux. I don’t want to get ahead of myself.”

MAURICIO “EL MAESTRO” HERRERA, Former WBA Interim Super Light Weight World Champion:

“I’m gonna work on what I’m going to do and not what he [Frankie Gomez] is going to do. I’m going to go out there and be confident and have fun.

“A win over Frankie Gomez would mean a lot. He’s an undefeated prospect that many people are watching.

“I know this is a big opportunity; it’s the first fight at the 20,000 seat T-Mobile Arena and a HBO Pay-Per-View show. When the fight with Lucas Matthysse fell through I told Golden Boy, ‘Keep me on the card, for whomever the opponent ends up being.'”

FRANKIE “PITBULL” GOMEZ, Welterweight Contender:

“I’m 100 percent focused on this fight and ready for May 7.

“I’m training hard to accomplish the things I want.”

JASON “EL ANIMAL” QUIGLEY, Middleweight Prospect:

“Every fight has the same meaning for me because I treat it like a world title fight.

“De La Rosa is another obstacle and hurdle I have to jump over to become a world champion. I’m ready to fight anyone and ready to shine on May 7. This is my chance to blow onto the scene. I have a lot to win and not much to lose.

“De La Rosa is coming off a knockout defeat and he is getting in the ring with a knockout artist, me, on May 7. He’s got to have doubts.

“I’ve never looked for a knock out. On May 7, I know the knockout can come. I just have to look for the opportunity.

“There are a lot of people traveling out from Ireland for this fight. The Irish fans are unbelievable. The way they have supported me has been amazing.”

DAVID MIJARES, Super Lightweight Prospect:

“I started boxing because there was one day I was at my father’s gym and there was a hockey player there that hit the water bag so hard that it fell down to the ground and I thought ‘wow! I want to be able to do that!’

“I’m very excited to make my debut on such a big card. The excitement cancels out the nervousness. I can’t wait to get in there and do my job.”

Canelo vs. Khan, a 12-round fight for Canelo’s WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Championships, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions and sponsored by “Cerveza Tecate, Born Bold,” O’Reilly Auto Parts, Casa Mexico Tequila, DOOM® — Fight Like Hell on May 13, and HANDS OF STONE: The True Story of Roberto Duran, in theaters this August. David Lemieux vs. Glen Tapia is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Eye of the Tiger Management and Patrick Teixeira vs. Curtis Stevens is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Main Events. The mega-event will take place Saturday, May 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Episode two of HBO’s reality series “24/7 Canelo/Khan” premieres Saturday, April 30 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT. Liev Schreiber narrates the 18-time Emmy-Award-winning series.

Tickets priced at $1,500, $1,000, $800, $600, $400, $250 and $150, not including applicable service charges and taxes, with a total ticket limit of 12 per person (a limit of 10 per person at the $1,500, $1,000, $800, $600 and $400 price levels and a limit of two [2] per person at the $250 and $150 price level) are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.t-mobilearena.com or www.axs.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com or www.hbo.com/boxing, follow us on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @canelo, @amirkingkhan, @OscarDeLaHoya and @HBOboxing, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or www.Facebook.com/HBOboxing, join us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @canelo, @amirkingkhan, @OscarDeLaHoya and @HBOboxing, and follow the conversation using #CaneloKhan.

Photos and videos are available for download in the official Canelo vs. Khan press kit here: bit.ly/canelokhan.

LOS ANGELES (April 15, 2016) – Golden Boy Promotions kept its promise in bringing the best to boxing fans, putting together the biggest fight to hit LA FIGHT CLUB yet. Former WBC Continental Americas and former NABF Welterweight Champion Jesus “Renuente” Soto Karass (29-10-4, 18 KO) faced Japan’s mighty warrior and former OPBF Welterweight Champion Yoshihiro “Maestrito” Kamegai (26-4-2, 23 KO) in a spectacular 10-round super welterweight performance at The Belasco Theater in downtown Los Angeles broadcast live on Boxeo Estellaron Estrella TV. It was a packed house tonight at The Belasco Theater, and the stellar sold out show saw the likes of Golden Boy stablemates Jason “El Animal” Quiqley, Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia, Carlos “The Solution” Morales, Rashidi “Speedy” Ellis, Hector “El Finito” Tanajara Jr., Oscar “El Jaguar” Negrete, Joet Gonzalez, and Pablo “The Shark” Rubio were in attendance, along with television star Mario Lopez and Golden Boy Promotions President & CEO Oscar de la Hoya, who met and mingled with fans during this action-packed night.

Former WBC Continental Americas and former NABF Welterweight champion, Soto Karass was matched in strength and power by opponent Kamegai, former OPBF Welterweight Champion. The two fighters refused to give the other the upper hand and battled it out until the end, exchanging hits, jabs, and blocks. Both boxers remained adamant against their opponents, each counter punching speedy hits and hard blows. Unable to decide a victor, the judges named a match a draw with scores of 97-93 (Kamegai), 96-94 (Soto Karass), and 95-95.

“This fight was a war, exactly what the fans expected,” said Jesus Soto Karass. “The people truly won tonight. I felt really good in the ring, but Kamegai was a true, Japanese warrior. I feel we both delivered an exciting night of boxing.”

“I’m still getting used to the time zone here, but I feel really good about my performance tonight,” said Yoshihiro Kamegai. “Soto Karass did catch me a few times, but every time he did, he was met with my counterpunches. Soto Karass was the kind of fighter I was expecting to fight-a true warrior.”

Golden Boy Promotions fan favorite, Vyacheslav “Lion Heart-Chigonsky” Shabranskyy (16-0, 13 KOs) of Los Angeles added another knockout under his belt tonight with his epic takedown of Chicago’s Derrick “Superman” Findley (23-19-1, 15 KOs) in the eight-round cruiserweight co-main event match-up. From the beginning of the first round, Slava delivered swift blows to Findley’s chest and by the second round, Shabranskyy had his opponent cornered. Findley could only fend off “Lion Heart-Chigonsky” with his blocks for so long as Shabranskyy boxed around his opponent and executed power punches securing him a third round knockout victory.

“I have the best teams and the best fans. I’m so happy Los Angeles has welcomed me to in to their familia,” said Shabranskyy of his victory. “In the ring, I’ve learned to become more patient, waiting for my opponent, but I’m also ready to pounce for an attack. I embrace my “chingonsky” and I’m looking forward to training hard to give my fans more shows.”

Starting off his professional career with a knockout victory, Genaro “El Conde” Gamez, (1-0, 1 KO) took on Archie Weah (1-6) of Norcross, Georgia in an impressive professional debut. The fight began with fire, as both fighters pounced to get their win. However, Weah could not keep up with Gamez’s speed and hard punches, landing a series of punching combinations that put a stop to Weah in the first round.

“I made sure to start the fight slow so I could figure out Weah,” said Genaro Gamez. “Once I was aware of Weah’s style I proceeded to take control of the fight and I am glad I was able to stop him early. I feel excited about this victory as my professional debut and look forward to the next fight.”

Making his professional debut tonight on the super middleweight division, Miami, Florida’s southpaw star Niko “Baby Face” Valdes (1-0, 1 KO) faced Roberto Ramirez (0-3) in a ground shaking first round knockout bash. Beginning the bout, Valdes knocked down his opponent with a hit, after Ramirez got back on his feet he was met first with a body punch and then a series of combination punches to the chest which stopped him the first round.

“Today was the day my dreams came true, just as I envisioned it,” said Valdes of his victory. “As I look forward to my career, I want to aspire to have a career like Canelo, because he is a world champion super-star. In Miami, I train alongside amazing world champs, and they have built me to be an aggressive fighter, prepared for it all.”

Representing East Los Angeles, Jonathan “Thunder” Navarro (5-0, 4 KOs)brought some serious rumble in to the ring with his third round knockout over Tavorous Teague (3-11-2, 2 KOs) of Paramount, CA in their scheduled six-round welterweight fight. Navarro was applying pressure to Teague the second the bell rang, with his consistent heavy-hitting jabs. In the second round, Navarro’s aggression was mounting and the force proved too much for Teague to handle as he lost his footing, but rebounded looking to catch Navarro. After an exchange of hits and jabs, Navarro came back and took his opponent down in the third round to win the fight via knock out.

“It was a good fight tonight. I came in more patient, waiting to strike,” said Navarro. “I learned a lot from this fight because it was my first time coming across my opponent’s fighting style. I feel ecstatic about adding another knockout, and I am very excited for my next fight.”

Eager to begin his professional boxing career, Glendora, California’s Jousce Gonzalez (1-0, 1 KO) entered the ring with a bang knocking out opponent Noe Perez (1-2) of Chihuahua, Chihuahua, Mexico in the first round as the opening bout of the night. Gonzalez has boxing in his blood as his brother Joet Gonzalez is a professional fighter and his sister is Jajaira Gonzalez is a finalist for the 2016 Olympic Women’s Boxing Team. Gonzalez impressively knocked down Perez three times before the fight was called off by the referee, awarding him his first victory by knockout.

“I feel so blessed to start off my professional career how I did tonight,” said Jousce Gonzalez of his winning knockout. “Coming out to my song, to the lights, and to the fans, I can’t help but feel excited for the future. I’m from a boxing family, and having Joet Gonzalez as my brother makes me really competitive against him, so I push to train harder in the ring and this is what makes me a better boxer.”

Jesus Soto Karass vs. Yoshihiro Kamegai was presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, BORN BOLD and Carmelita Chorizo. Doors opened at 5:00 p.m. and the first bout began at 5:30 p.m. The Estrella TV Boxeo Estelar broadcast aired live on Friday, April 15 at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT and streamed live simultaneously on estrellaTV.com and on YouTube via Fenomeno Studios: youtube.com/FenomenoStudios. The Ring TV live stream began at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT through 7:00 p.m.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.belascous.com, www.estrellatv.com, follow on twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @EstrellaTV and become a fanon Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/TheBelascoLA, www.facebook.com/EstrellaTVNetwork, visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @belascola and @EstrellaTV, follow the conversation using #LAFIGHTCLUB and #BoxeoEstelar.

LOS ANGELES (March 21, 2016) – Before WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion, Canelo Alvarez (46-1-1, 32 KOs) and former two-time world champion Amir “King” Khan (31-3, 19 KOs) step into the ring at the new T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, May 7 for the biggest fight of 2016 thusfar, three hard-hitting bouts have been confirmed to get fight fans ready for the main event.

Canada’s biggest boxing star and former IBF Middleweight World Champion David Lemieux (34-3, 31 KOs) will be looking to make an impression and use his power against the swift contender from Passaic, New Jersey, Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia (23-2, 15 KOs) in a 10-round middleweight co-main event.

As part of the televised undercard, top rated contender, Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera (22-5, 7 KOs) of Riverside, Calif. will move up to welterweight to face East Los Angeles’ undefeated star Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez (20-0, 13 KOs)in a 10-round welterweight fight sure to excite boxing fans.

Opening up the pay-per-view telecast, heavy-handed Brazilian star Patrick Teixeira (26-0, 22 KOs) is set to face former world title challenger Curtis “Showtime” Stevens (27-5, 20 KOs) in a 10-round career-defining middleweight bout.

The live mega event, which matches some of boxing’s most popular and recognizable fighters against each other in exciting matchups will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

“I am back,” said David Lemieux. “I am coming back strong and ready to be on top of the middleweight division where I belong.”

“This is a make or break moment,” said Glen Tapia. “I can’t wait to show everyone what I am made of. People will see a new and improved Glen Tapia and this is the best place to show it; as part of a stellar undercard. I know David will be a tough opponent, but I am ready for this challenge to take on the best in the division and show the world a fully realized Glen Tapia.”

“We want to give back to the fans with this undercard and provide thrilling, action-packed bouts leading up to the main event with Canelo Alvarez vs. Amir Khan on May 7,” said Oscar De La Hoya. “We appreciate the fans support and wanted to give them the best bang for their buck with these televised undercard fights. To watch exciting, competitive undercard bouts leading up to the biggest boxing event so far of 2016 will help to create buzz by the time Canelo and Amir reach the ring and fans pay to feel a part of that electric atmosphere.”

“I am extremely happy for David to be on such a high profile card as the co-main event to Canelo Alvarez vs. Amir Khan,” said Camille Estephan, President of Eye of the Tiger Management. “David is motivated, now more than ever, to reconquer his status as a world champion and winning this fight will get him closer to his goal. I am confident David will put on a fight to remember on May 7.”

“This is a great opportunity for Glen, he knows he has to be at his best against a warrior like Lemeuix,” said Pat Lynch, Manager to Glen Tapia. “I know he is up for the challenge and will give everyone Mat 7a great fight to remember.”

“May 7 is the day I have to slaughter another young lion to prove myself again,” said Mauricio Herrera. “Frankie Gomez is a strong fighter that will bring the absolute best out of me. I will be in tip top shape for the mega-event.”

“This is the kind of fight I have been training for my entire career,” said Frankie Gomez. “Herrera is a recognized and ranked fighter, he has a lot of experience and it’s my chance to prove myself and show everyone who has doubted me, what I can do in the ring. I feel very excited to be part of a great undercard, fans can expect an exciting night, don’t miss it.”

“I am excited to be part of one of the biggest boxing events of the year,” said Patrick Teixeira. “I promise to go out to the ring fully prepared for the best Curtis Stevens and show that I am a fighter to be feared in the middleweight division. I want to thank my team and Golden Boy Promotions for this opportunity, and on May 7 fans can expected to see an exciting fight opening the televised event.”

“This guy is a zero and has got to go,” said Curtis Stevens. “I’m ready to start climbing up in the rankings again and am happy to be on this great HBO card with my man Canelo Alvarez.”

“This is a great crossroads match up for Curtis on a big platform,” said Kathy Duva, CEO of Main Events. “He needs to deliver on May 7th and I know he will!”

Tickets priced at $1,500, $1,000, $800, $600, $400, $250 and $150, not including applicable service charges and taxes, with a total ticket limit of 12 per person (a limit of 10 per person at the $1,500, $1,000, $800, $600 and $400 price levels and a limit of two [2] per person at the $250 and $150 price level) are on sale now. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.t-mobilearena.com or www.axs.com.

Canelo vs. Khan, a 12-round fight for Canelo’s WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Championships, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions and sponsored by “Cerveza Tecate, Born Bold”, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Casa Mexico Tequila and DOOM® — Fight Like Hell on May 13. David Lemieux vs. Glen Tapia is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Eye of the Tiger Management and Patrick Teixeira vs. Curtis Stevens is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Main Events. The mega-event will take place Saturday, May 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Currently ranked as one of the top middleweight fighters by the WBC and IBF, former IBF World Middleweight Champion David Lemieux is making his return to the ring on May 7 after a sell-out crowd at The Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden in New York, when he faced Gennady Golovkin for the Unified Middleweight World Championship on October 17. Before his face off against Golovkin, Lemieux was coming off of his ninth consecutive victory over Hassan N’Dam in June 2015 and seventh consecutive knockout against Gabriel “King” Rosado last December 2014. The 27-year-old Lemieux was victorious in dominant fashion capturing the vacant IBF Middleweight Title against Hassan N’Dam on June 20 in his hometown of Montreal, Canada. Dropping N’Dam four times, the hard-hitting Canadian won a wide, 12-round unanimous decision. Lemieux made his HBO and United States debut in headline fashion with a fantastic performance stopping top contender Gabriel Rosado in the tenth round on December, 2014 in Brooklyn, New York. Now, Lemieux is ready to fight Glen Tapia in a memorable mega event in Las Vegas.

Known as one of the most exciting fighters to watch in the sport, Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia will be looking for an opportunity to start off 2016 with a victory when he faces power-puncher David Lemieux on May 7. A professional since 2008, the 26-year-old is a tough fighter who has taken on some of the fiercest opposition in the sport, including match-ups against James “Mandingo Warrior” Kirkland, Daniel “The Rock” Dawson, and Michel Soro. One of the most decorated amateur fighters of his time, Tapia has competed for the NABO and USBA super welterweight titles. Now, Tapia has set his sights on becoming a world champion as he prepares for his fight on May 7.

Fan favorite Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera has established his reputation over the years with an old school approach that has seen him show off the technical aspects of the sweet science like few others. Throw in a warrior’s heart and the 35-year-old from Riverside, California is a must-see for all followers of the sport. Owner of wins over former world champions Ruslan “The Siberian Rocky” Provodnikov, Johan “El Terrible” Perez and, most recently, “Hammerin” Hank Lundy, Herrera’s only defeats over the last two years have been controversial decision losses to current world champions Danny “Swift” Garcia and Jose Benavidez. Now moving up to 147 pounds, he expects to be better than ever.

East LA’s Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez is known for his exciting style and powerful punches. He is the owner of 13 knockouts in three rounds or fewer and can also box, as shown in his near-shutout victories over longtime contenders Vernon “Ice Man” Paris in July of 2014 and Jorge “Pantera” Silva in October of 2015. A decorated amateur who won the 2009 United States Championship and earned a Silver medal in the 2009 World Championships, Gomez is ready to face the top opposition and chase his dreams of a world championship in 2016.

From Sombrio, Santa Catarina, Brazil and residing in Sao Paulo, southpaw Patrick Teixeira has paid his dues on the way up the middleweight ladder and after putting together a perfect record, the Brazilian star will take on his biggest test to date in former world title challenger Curtis “Showtime” Stevens. An active fighter who has competed around the world since turning professional in 2009, the 25-year-old will make his Las Vegas debut this May after scoring big knockout wins over Patrick Allotey and Don Mouton in 2015.

One of the most exciting knockout artists in boxing, Curtis “Showtime” Stevens hails from the same Brownsville, Brooklyn neighborhood that produced the legendary Mike Tyson, and Stevens, like “Iron Mike,” enjoys nothing more than a fast finish on fight night. Winner of two of his last three, with knockouts of Patrick “The Machine” Majewski and current number one IBF Middleweight contender Tureano Johnson, the 31-year-old former NABF middleweight champ can make his case for another world title shot with a win over Teixeira on May 7.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com or www.hbo.com/boxing, follow us on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @canelo, @amirkingkhan, @OscarDeLaHoya and @HBOboxing, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or www.Facebook.com/HBOboxing, join us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @canelo, @amirkingkhan, @OscarDeLaHoya and @HBOboxing, and follow the conversation using #CaneloKhan.

Michel Soro scored a 4th round stoppage over Glen Tapia in a scheduled 10-round Jr. Middleweight bout at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

In round four, Soro landed perfect right that rocked Tapia. Tapia was rubberly legged and ate a flurry of punches before eating 4 vicious shots and the fight was stopped at 2:10 of round four.

Soro, 153 lbs of France is now 26-1-1 with 16 knockouts. Tapia, 154 lbs of Passaic, New Jersey is now 23-2.

Seanie Monaghan remained undefeated by scoring a 10-round unanimous decision over Cleiton Concaicao in a Light Heavyweight bout.

In round two, Monaghan was cut over his right eye. Monaghan landed 193-630 punches. Concaicao was 157-521.

Monaghan, 174 lbs of Long Beach, NY won by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 twice and is now 24-0. Concaicao, 173 lbs of Brazil is now 20-7-2.

Newark, New Jersey (May 8, 2015) Tonight in Newark, New Jersey, world ranked junior middleweight MICHEL SORO will challenge local fan favorite GLEN “Jersey Boy” TAPIA in the 10-round main event at the Prudential Center and LIVE on truTV®, 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

At stake will be Tapia’s NABO Junior Middleweight Title.

“This is a terrific opportunity for me, fighting Tapia near his home and on US TV” said the 27-year-old Soro. “I’ve trained very hard and had great sparring in Big Bear Lake, California at The Summit and I’m ‘more than ready’ to dethrone Tapia from his title.”

A native of Ivory Coast, now living in Lyon, France, Soro carries a record of 25-1-1 (15KO’s) into his second U.S. nationally televised bout. On July 25, 2014, he fought to a 10-round majority draw with Antoine Douglas in a fight telecast on Showtime.

“I know these opportunities are not easy to come by but I’m very motivated to beat Tapia and show boxing fans that I’m a world caliber fighter.”

“For Michel this is a terrific chance to show the boxing world that he belongs with the names at the top of the junior middleweight division,” said MICHAEL KING of KING SPORTS. “He had a couple early knockout victories in France this year and we feel he’s ready to win tonight.”

Fighting out of Jersey City, New Jersey, the 25-year-old Tapia, 23-1-1 (15KO’s), is riding a three bout winning streak, most recently stopping Daniel Dawson in the third round on March 7.

ABOUT KING SPORTS
King Sports is a company started by entertainment entrepreneur Michael King. King Sports’ first foray into boxing was with All-American Heavyweights, a revolutionary boxing program that boasted a state-of-the-art training facility equipped with the latest technology, premiere coaching and medical staff along with the ideal dietary and nutritional needs for its fighters. Since making the decision to enter professional boxing, King Sports has spent time evaluating the entire spectrum of global boxing talent. Through an exhaustive scouting and evaluation process, King Sports has found some of the most exciting young fighters from around the world.

For more information follow King Sports on Twitter @KingSportsWorld, Facebook @KingSportsWorldwide and visit their website at www.KingSportsWorldwide.com.

he MetroPCS Friday Night Knockout on truTV series will feature its second consecutive week of live boxing coverage Friday, May 8, at 10 p.m. ET from Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. The card will feature two title fights, headlined by Top-10 contenders Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia (23-1, 15 KOs) from Passaic, N.J., and “Irish” Seanie Monaghan (23-0, 15 KOs). Tapia will defend his NABO junior middleweight title against Michel Soro (25-1-1, 15 KOs) from France, with Monaghan defending his WBC Continental Americas light heavyweight title against Cleiton Conceicao (20-6-2, 16 KOs) from Brazil.

Commentators for the event will include Kevin Kugler providing play-by-play with analyst Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini and reporter Crystina Poncher. Kugler is a veteran announcer who has called college basketball and NFL coverage for Westwood One and college football for the Big Ten Network. Mancini is a 2015 International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee and former NABF and WBA lightweight champion. Poncher is a commentator and reporter for Top Rank, as well as a host, reporter and correspondent for NFL Network and NFL.com. Additionally, closed captioning in Spanish will be available.

The network’s presentation will feature the continued use of “Spidercam” technology, the first of its kind for a live domestic boxing telecast, providing dynamic coverage during the series. “Spidercam” operates on a four-point system of cables from designated points beyond the corners of the boxing ring. The suspended camera has the ability to provide compelling 360-degree angles of the action including the ability to move in three dimensions – left/right, forward/backward and up/down.

As part of its entitlement sponsorship of the boxing series on truTV, MetroPCS will receive camera-visible center ring and corner pad brand placement for each fight, as well as inclusion in all promotional messaging across truTV and other Turner Broadcasting networks.

Visit the Turner Sports online pressroom for additional press materials; follow Turner Sports on Twitter at @TurnerSportsPR.

NEWARK (April 8, 2015) — Local favorites and Top-10 contenders GLEN “Jersey Boy” TAPIA and “Irish” SEANIE MONAGHAN will headline an action-packed boxing card to be televised live on truTV at 10 p.m. ET – on Friday, May 8 from Prudential Center in Newark, NJ.

Tapia, who hails from nearby Passaic, will defend his NABO junior middleweight title against one-time world title challenger MICHEL SORO of France. Monaghan, the undefeated World Boxing Council (WBC) Continental light heavyweight champion from Long Beach, NY, will risk his undefeated record, title and No. 3 world rating when he battles 2000 Olympian CLEITON CONCEIÇÃO from Brazil. The four warriors boast a combined record of 91-8-3 (61 KOs) and a winning ratio of 89%, with over two-thirds of their victories by way of knockout.

Promoted by Top Rank®, tickets to the Tapia vs. Soro / Monaghan vs. Conceição boxing event will go on sale This Friday! April 10, beginning at 10:00 a.m. ET. Tickets are available at $105, $60, $40 and $25, plus applicable taxes and fees, and may be purchased online at www.Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased at Prudential Center’s box office beginning Monday, April 13, at 11:00 a.m. ET.

“It will be great to be in New Jersey fighting in front of my hometown fans,” said Tapia. “Freddie Roach and I have been working very hard in training camp to make May 8 a knockout of a homecoming.”

“I am very excited to fight at Prudential Center and live on tru-TV,” said Monaghan. “I am defending my title and I am delighted to fight at a great venue where my army of fans can come support me. I want to fight for a world title this year so watch me bring it on May 8 and show the world why I really deserve a world title shot.”

“Prudential Center is known as ‘The Rock’ and we expect this crowd to be just that – ROCKING,” said Carl Moretti, Vice President of Top Rank. “Fan favorites Glen Tapia and Seanie Monaghan as well as a host of undercard prospects including local rising star Julian Rodriguez, from Hasbrouck Heights, will make the feeling at The Rock like a Devils-Rangers game.”

Trained by Hall of Famer Freddie Roach and co-managed by Pat Lynch, Tapia (23-1, 15 KOs) enters this fight with six of his last seven victories coming by way of stoppage, including his last three. World-rated No. 6 by the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and the World Boxing Organization (WBO), Tapia returns to the ring on the heels of his biggest professional victory, a third-round knockout of former Australian junior middleweight and middleweight champion Daniel Dawson to claim the vacant NABO junior middleweight title. The fight took place on March 7 in Macau, China, and the sellout crowd made up mostly of Chinese boxing fans joyously chanted “Jersey Boy! Jersey Boy!” as the referee raised his hand. It was the second time he hard-hitting Tapia has reigned as the NABO junior middleweight champion. Tapia first claimed the title in 2013 when he upset the previously undefeated contender Abie Han via an eighth-round TKO.

Soro (25-1-1, 15 KO), a native of Abidjan, Ivory Coast who now fights out of Villeurbanne, Rhône, France, enters this fight riding a three-year, eight-bout unbeaten streak with his last three victories coming by way of knockout, including two this year.
Boasting two-fisted power and experience against quality opposition, Soro is a former French and WBO European junior middleweight champion. The only blemish on his record was a 12-round decision loss to International Boxing Organization (IBO) junior middleweight world champion Zaurbek Baysangurov in 2012, though he did knock the defending champion down in the second round and staggered him in the fifth.

One of the top boxing gate attractions in his native New York, Monaghan (23-0, 15 KOs) will be making his 2015 debut. He captured the WBC Continental Americas light heavyweight title in 2012 via an eighth-round TKO of Romaro Johnson. He has successfully defended the title four times during his three-year reign and has won five of his last six bouts by way of knockout. Monaghan is currently world-rated No. 3 by the World Boxing Association (WBA) and No. 6 by the WBC and the International Boxing Federation (IBF).

Conceição (20-6-2, 16 KOs), of São Paulo, Brazil, has scored his last five victories by way of knockout. His strong amateur background included being a member of the 2000 Brazilian Olympic team as well as being a two-time Brazilian National Champion. In his last fight, on February 20, Conceição scored a first-round knockout of Nei De Lima.

About Prudential Center
Prudential Center is a world-class sports and entertainment venue located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. Opened in October 2007, the state-of-the-art arena is the home of the National Hockey League’s (NHL) three-time Stanley Cup Champion New Jersey Devils, Seton Hall University’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball program, and more than 175 concerts, family shows and special events each year. Ranked in the Top 10 nationally by Pollstar, Billboard and Venue’s Today, Prudential Center is recognized as one of the premier venues in the United States, and welcomes 1.75 million guests annually. For more information about Prudential Center, visit PruCenter.com and Facebook, and follow @PruCenter on Twitter.

Amnat Ruenroeng scored a 12-round unanimous decision over hometown hero Zou Shiming to retain the IBF Flyweight title at the Cotai Arena at the Ventian in Macao, China.

Shiming was credited with a knockdown in round two but replays revealed that it was more a of a push. Ruenroeng was very accurate with his hard right hands and that proved to be the difference of the fight as he won all scorecards by a 116-111 tally.

Ruenroeng, 112 lbs of Thailand is now 15-0. Shiming, 111.6 lbs of China is now 6-1.

Glen Tapia scored a 3rd round stoppage over Daniel Dawson in a scheduled 10-round Jr. Middleweight bout.

In round three, Tapia staggered Dawson with a double right and then hurt him again with a third right. Tapia continued to unload with hard shots in the corner and Dawson did not punch back and the fight was stopped at 1:42 of round three.

Tapia, 154 lbs of Passaic, NJ is now 23-1 with 15 knockouts. Dawson, 153 1/2 lbs of Perth, AUS is now 40-5-1.

Photos by Chris Farina / Top Rank

Zou Shiming 111.6 – Amnat Ruenroeng 112
Glen Tapia 154 – Daniel Dawson 153.4
Ik Yang 140 – Patomsuk Pathompothong 139.6

WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S.A. – Twenty-one year old light welterweight professional boxer, Mike “Yes Indeed” Reed (Washington, D.C./pro record: 10-0, 6 KOs), returns to the ring on Saturday, October 4, 2014, at Bally’s in Atlantic City, New Jersey. On the fight card, promoted by Top Rank, Reed will face Juan Manuel Montiel (Mexico City, Mexico/pro record: 7-6-3, 2 KOs) in a six-round bout. This is Reed’s first fight since he signed with Top Rank in July, 2014. The main event will feature New Jersey’s Glen Tapia against Lithuania’s Donatas Bondorovas.
Michael “Buck” Pinson, Reed’s father, manager and trainer, talked about the upcoming fight on October 4. “Our opponent Montiel is a tough guy who went the distance with several undefeated fighters, and had draws with Carlos Molina and David Rodela. Even though he has six losses, I think he will give Mike the rounds he needs at this stage of his career. We appreciate that valuable fight experience that Montiel brings to the table. Top Rank knows the boxing business, and they are going to select the proper opponents that will help guide my son to a world title. Fighting at home or on the road isn’t a problem. At one time, Mike was one of the top amateurs, so we’ve traveled and competed all over the country.”

Pinson talked about training camp for this fight. He said, “At this point, camp is winding down, and Michael has put in the necessary work and is ready to fight. Training camp is the hard part, fighting is when boxing becomes fun. Michael’s job is to put the work in the gym and do whatever schoolwork is necessary for college. It’s that simple. We don’t worry about opponents getting switched or guys pulling out of a fight. I understand that happens sometimes in this sport, so we just continue doing our part to be mentally and physically prepared for whatever our opposition may bring to the fight in Atlantic City.”
Mike Reed talked about returning to Atlantic City for his Top Rank debut against Montiel. He said, “Juan Manuel Montiel is a durable opponent who has fought against very tough opposition. He went the distance in most of his fights and he is battle tested, with sixteen fights of pro experience. My goals for this fight are to continue my growth as a professional fighter while continuing to build my fan base outside of the Washington, D.C. area. I plan to show my versatility and many different aspects of my fight game. This is my Top Rank debut, and that means a lot. It is awesome to have the security of one of the top boxing promoters to help guide my career to a world title. Also, it shows the kids in the gym that hard work helps you achieve anything that you set your mind to accomplish.”
Reed continued, “This is our second consecutive fight in Atlantic City for Team Reed. Obviously, we do have to travel away from home, but the reception that we received from the crowd in Atlantic City at our last fight was remarkable. The fans that were cheering for me at Bally’s made me feel as if I was fighting in my hometown. After the fight was over, I was walking around in the hotel’s casino, and I would hear people yell, ‘Yes Indeed!’ That was really cool.”
Reed discussed the talented light welterweight division. He said, “The 140 lb division is loaded with talent, but three names stand out to me and they are Lamont Peterson, Adrien Broner, and Terence Crawford. I have watched Lamont since I started boxing, and I’ve personally witnessed his transformation from him being an open fighter to being a world champion. When I first met Adrien in 2009, he told me that he was going to be a world champion. I watched how he trained and worked towards his goal, refusing to stop until he was a champion. I see a lot of similarities between Crawford and myself, even down to the way he carries himself inside and outside of the ring. He is a crafty and skillful fighter, and I believe he will be around for a long time. I work hard so I can be mentioned with those guys.”
Reed is thankful for all the support he has received from his fans and the media. “After every interview or statement given, I always thank those who helped me get to this point. I’m grateful for every person who told a neighbor about me, and everyone who bought a ticket to attend one of my fights. Every little bit helps and it’s truly appreciated. Without you all, I wouldn’t where I am at this point in my career. Thank you to all the media who constantly encourage me and support my career.”
Tickets for Reed’s October 4 Top Rank card at Bally’s in Atlantic City, priced at $50 and $75, can be purchased by phone (800) 736 1420 or online at ticketmaster.com.

Follow Reed on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mike.y.reed.921
Follow Reed on Instagram: @YesIndeed_Reed or http://instagram.com/yesindeed_reed
Follow Reed on Twitter: @YesIndeed_Reed or https://twitter.com/YesIndeed_Reed
Hash tag: #YesIndeed

Jr. Middleweight Glen Tapia was denied a license just 24 hours before his bout against Salim Larbi on the Gennady Golovkin – Daniel Geale card in New York according to Dan Rafael espn.com.

The NYSAC said only that he was denied a license for medical reasons. However, Carl Moretti, vice president of Top Rank, which promotes Tapia, said the denial was because of an issue New York commission physician Dr. Barry Jordan had with Tapia’s blood work.

“The medical team in New York did not approve his blood work, which had nothing to do with HIV or hepatitis,” Moretti said told ESPN.com. “The same blood work was approved in New Jersey for his last fight a month ago. While we respect the decision we would like some further clarification in the days and weeks ahead so we can plan his next fight accordingly.”

New York City (June 24, 2014) Top junior middleweight contenders will square off on the undercard of the “G4” boxing extravaganza set for SATURDAY, JULY 26 at The Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden. “GLEN “Jersey Boy” TAPIA, favorite son of Passaic, New Jersey, will clash with BOYD “The Rainmaker” MELSON of Brooklyn, New York in an eight round battle.

Also added to the undercard is undefeated and all-action junior welterweight newcomer JULIAN “Hammer Hands” RODRIGUEZ of Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey in a scheduled four rounder against an opponent to be announced.

“We’re excited to add this fight between these two local fan favorites to an already stellar HBO double header,” said Tom Loeffler of K2 Promotions. “Tapia and Melson are both very popular in the New York City area and have a lot to gain with a win. Fighting on the sport’s biggest stage will no doubt bring out the best in each of them and give them the most publicity for their career.”

Continued Loeffler about the “G4” undercard additions, “Although only 19-years-old Rodriguez is one of the most talked about young fighters in the sport and fans are in for a real treat with his all-action style.”

Pat Lynch, manager of Tapia and Rodriguez added, “I’d like to thank Tom Loeffler and K2 Promotions for putting Glen and Julian on the show. It’s always exciting when they’re fighting at the Madison Square Garden as both my guys have a huge following.”

The 24-year-old Tapia, sporting a record of 21-1-0 with 13 knockouts, returns to the ring following a first round knockout of Keenan Collins on June 14 in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Tapia has resumed training at the legendary Wild Card Boxing Gym in Hollywood, California this week under the watchful eye of Hall of Famer FREDDIE ROACH.

Southpaw Melson, a West Point graduate who is very active in numerous charitable endeavors including Stem Cell Research, boasts a current undefeated streak of seven fights amongst his record of 14-1-1 (4KO’s).

On February 12th, Melson kicked off his 2014 campaign with an eight round decision over Donald Ward at the famed Roseland Ballroom in New York City.

Rodriguez, sporting a record of 4-0-0 with three knockouts, was a 2012 U.S. Olympic alternate in the 141-pound division and is coming off a second round stoppage of Angel Figueroa on June 14th also in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

Tapia and Rodriguez both appear at the “G4” event in association with Top Rank Incorporated and Pat Lynch Boxing.

“G4” is headlined by boxing’s fastest rising star, WBA/IBO Middleweight Champion GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN and Two-Time World Champion DANIEL “The Real Deal” GEALE.

Co-featured on “G4” is the WBC World Heavyweight Title Eliminator between undefeated and top rated heavyweights BRYANT “By By” JENNINGS of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and MIKE “The Rebel” PEREZ of Cork, Ireland.

GOLOVKIN VS. GEALE is presented by K2 Promotions and GGG Promotions in association with Gary Shaw Productions and Grange Old School Boxing.

JENNINGS VS. PEREZ is presented by K2 Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions in association with Antonio Leonard Promotions. Both featured bouts will be telecast Live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT

Advance tickets for “G4” priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, $50 and $25 can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.thegarden.com

For Social Media updates on Glen Tapia, Boyd Melson and Julian Rodriguez follow them on Twitter at @RealGlenTapia, @BoydMelson and @TeamHammerHands.

For fight updates on JENNINGS VS. PEREZ via Social Media, follow HBO Boxing on Twitter at @HBOBoxing and Facebook at /HBOBoxing, Bryant Jennings on Twitter at @BYJennings, Tom Loeffler/K2 Promotions at @TomLoeffler1 and Gary Shaw Productions at @GaryShawBoxing. Use the hashtag #JenningsPerez to join the conversation on Twitter.

For fight updates on GOLOVKIN VS. GEALE via Social Media, follow HBO Boxing on Twitter at @HBOBoxing and Facebook at /HBOBoxing, in addition to on Twitter at Gennady Golovkin/@GGGBoxing, Daniel Geale/@RealDealGeale, Tom Loeffler – K2 Promotions/ @TomLoeffler1 and Gary Shaw Productions/@GaryShawBoxing. Use the hashtag #GolovkinGeale to join the conversation on Twitter.

New York, NY (June 20, 2014) – Like every other prizefighter around the globe, junior middleweight Captain Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson’s dreamed of competing in big bouts and making the most money possible; albeit for different reasons.

By now, the cause Melson fights for is well documented. As the co-founder of Team Fight to Walk who was an integral part of a successful May 2013 fundraising dinner amongst other events, he’s helped raise a significant amount of money for Spinal Cord Injury research. Melson’s also been a success inside the squared circle, compiling an impressive 14-1-1 record with 4 wins by knockout. Even with all of his accolades, the 32-year-old’s been looking for the kind of fight that will take him to the next level.

The popular Manhattan based Brooklynite will have the opportunity to show the world that he’s a top 154 pounder when he faces contender Glen “Jersey Boy” Tapia Saturday, July 26 at Madison Square Garden. Tickets for the card featuring Melson-Tapia, which is headlined by a world middleweight title bout between WBA champion Gennady Golovkin and Daniel Geale, are available at teamfighttowalk.com.

Hailing from the tough streets of Passaic, NJ, Tapia’s a blood and guts warrior who gives fans their monies worth every time he fights. Eight years Melson’s junior, he’s 20-1 with 12 wins by knockout, most notably stopping previously unbeaten Abie Han in July 2013. In his premium cable debut last December, Tapia got off to a blazing start and hurt James Kirkland in the opening round before ultimately ending up on the wrong end of a brutal sixth round stoppage. With the same management team that handled the late, great Arturo Gatti backing him, Tapia returned with a vengeance June 14, stopping veteran Keenan Collins in 84 seconds.

“This is going to be the toughest fight of my career but these are the kinds of bouts I have to win if I’m going to make it to the next level,” said Melson. “Glen is a good, strong fighter and I’ve seen him a number of times. I know I’m considered the underdog but I don’t feel like one. In the amateurs, I was defeated a number of guys that are currently top pros. I’ve been working almost four years as a professional for an opportunity like this and put in too much work just to let this massive stage get to me. I’m confident July 26 will be my coming out party to the upper echelon of the 154 pound division.”

In association with the 501 (C) 3 nonprofit Justadollarplease.org, Melson and his best friend Christan Zaccagnino created Team Fight to Walk, whose mission is to raise awareness within the boxing community as well as the entire nation about the importance of bringing Clinical Trials to the United States to help cure Spinal Cord Injuries. Team Fight to Walk is comprised of Melson, Zaccagnino, former Rutgers football player/ESPY honoree Eric LeGrand, two-time cruiserweight champion Steve “USS” Cunningham, Austin “No Doubt” Trout, title contender DeAndre “The Bull” Latimore, Edgar “El Chamaco” Santana, Sonya Lamonakis, Hector “Machito” Camacho Jr., WBO Junior Middleweight titlist/2008 US Olympian Demetrius “Boo” Andrade and fellow 08’ Olympian Shawn Estrada along with prospects Sid “The Messenger” El Harrak, Jeff “TNT” Spencer, Denis “Da Momma’s Boy” Douglin, Will “Power” Rosinsky, Floriano “Italiano” Pagliara, Danny “Little Mac” McDermott, Vinny “The Lion” O’Brien, Ahmed “Prince of Egypt” Samir and Delen “Sniper” Parsley.

For more information or to make a donation, go to teamfighttowalk.com or Justadollarplease.org. All specific questions about the nature of the Clinical Trial to cure Spinal Cord Injury can be sent to [email protected].

By Bart Barry–

AUSTIN, Texas – Somewhere round here, likely on currently gentrified streets once mean, James “Mandingo Warrior” Kirkland roamed and terrorized sparring partners en route to network-darling status, a falling-out or five with trainer Ann Wolfe, a prison stay, a brutal victory over Alfredo Angulo in 2011, and a brutaler victory over Glen Tapia in December. Where he is right now is a source of speculation, as usual, but this is not: Had he been present in San Antonio last week to announce a fight with Mexican Saul “Canelo” Alvarez at Alamodome, many more San Antonians would have been there as well.

One such San Antonian spent the weekend with Austin locals, instead, in the hopes of finding some evidence of cultural offerings greater than University of Texas’ Blanton Museum of Art and sanitized bars on West 6th Street. He found some, too, good contemporary- and folk-art offerings, and also a reason to reflect on what appears to be one of our sport’s greater missed-ticket-selling opportunities.

This city is not weird so much as haphazard and disorganized, a hippie enclave in a state that, since making a fortuitous discovery dinosaurs once died within its borders, has trended ever more conservative, free-market and likely to conflate luck with merit – convincing its citizenry one’s birth in a resource-rich state is evidence, somehow, of exemplary character or virtue. For every action a reaction: Austin, now enjoying a real-estate boom financed by those scrofulous knaves who brought ruin to sandy states from Florida to California, makes a fetish of embracing its eccentricities, not uncommon to college towns, and planting on its automobiles’ bumpers and townfolk’s t-shirts declarations about keeping itself weird and loving live music.

Ask most who embellish Austin’s merits to catalog this city’s cultural offerings, aside from live music, and they’ll tell you, “Live music!” It’s the sort of exhausting, end-of-boom chatter one encountered in Silicon Valley round 2001, when everyone intended to be a billionaire but no one knew how clicks-from-coffeeshops could be monetized. It’s marginally less cynical here, though, because it is a celebration of culture, such as it is, not capitalism.

To this city’s ever more gentrified climes comes West Austin Studio Tour 2014, a sprawling collection of 241 art galleries and exhibitions, for two weekends, this one and last, and it is, in its seeming disinterest, nearly an opposite of the South by Southwest festival that now makes Austin a destination for the coolest folks from all about our fruited plain. Disinterested because most artists are borrowing corners of their friends’ gallery spaces, have yet to name much less sign their works, and rarely take anything but cash or check. As one local put it: “That’s Austin. We don’t really plan things all the way through. We just sort of get them started and see what happens, you know?”

And there-across spans a bridge from one unplanning gaggle of artists to another: Wednesday afternoon, Oscar De La Hoya, whom business circumstances appear to be pushing from figurehead to manager, visited San Antonio’s historic Mercado district, about 70 miles southwest of here, to announce that the one prizefighter insiders are reasonably certain remains tied to him by promotional contract, Mexican Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, will be fighting Cuban Erislandy Lara in Las Vegas in a couple months, in an event called “Honor and Glory.” De La Hoya, freshly enthusiastic if not yet sincere, announced, in Spanish, the card was about “honor y gloria” before switching to English and explaining that honor is what men fight for, and glory.

It was vacuous and scripted, the way these things ever are – or perhaps it was the South Texas sun breaking unexpectedly through what Weather Channel’s app promised would be a cloudy day – but it sapped one’s humor and acted as a reminder of a question Alamo City insiders often ask ourselves when asked to cheerlead for Canelo: Why not James Kirkland at Alamodome? Surely Mike Battah of Leija-Battah Promotions, the man who risked a large sum of his own capital to bring Alvarez, on short notice, to San Antonio to fight an otherwise unknown New Mexican named Austin Trout 13 months ago, and then made of his opportunity one of the more groundbreakingly excellent promotions of the last decade, putting more than 40,000 people in Alamodome, expected such a debut effort would reap rewards many times greater than schlock like Fidel Maldonado against John Nater on a Monday night in February.

Battah once openly imagined 70,000-person gates for Canelo at Alamodome, regardless of opponent, and must now content himself with renting restaurant plazas on Wednesday afternoons to have the firehaired horseman of Jalisco, diminished in everyone’s eyes, make a few serious poses, promise redemption for all Mexicans from a Cuban, and tell the people of, let’s see, San Antonio, how very much he appreciates their support.

To resume his ascent after the Mayweather debacle in September, Canelo needed to do more than score a referee stoppage over a ruined countryman like Alfredo Angulo, on pay-per-view in March; and if we’re being honest, even if he’d put “El Perro” to sleep in 90 seconds, Canelo would have suffered mightily from an Argentine doing to Floyd Mayweather two months later what Mexicans verily expected Canelo would do. One shudders to think what comes of Oscar De La Hoya’s company if Lara undresses Canelo the way that, say, Winky Wright undressed Felix Trinidad in 2005.

Since, like their statesmen, American boxing promoters cannot be counted on to do the right thing till they’ve tried everything else, one might as well hope, too, that such an outcome would make the fight that makes much more ticket-selling sense than Canelo’s tilt in July will: A match with Austin’s James Kirkland at Alamodome.

Bart Barry can be reached at bart.barrys.email (at) gmail.com

ATLANTIC CITY–Guillermo Rigondeaux retained the WBA/WBO Super Bantamweight titles at the Adrian Phillips Ballroom inside of Boardwalk HalL.

Rigondeaux used his superior boxing ability as he places precision shots to the body and flicking jabs to the head of Agbeko.

Scores were 120-108 on all cards for Rigondeaux and is now 13-0. Agbeko is now 29-5.

James Kirkland scored a 6th round stoppage over previously undefeated Glen Tapia in a thrilling Jr. Middleweight fight.

Tapia dominated the first frame as he jumped on Kirkland which thrilled the pro-Tapia crowd. Most of the next five rounds were spent with Kirkland unloading hundreds of flush punches to the head and the body of Tapia. Tapia was getting beat up but he showed an unbelievable heart and only god knows what was keeping him standing. Tapia showed short bursts of offense in the beginning of the 4th, 5th and 6th rounds but they were short lived as Kirkland pounded away at Tapia that had blood flying from the nose of Tapia until referee Steve Smoger stopped the bout at 38 seconds of round six.

Kirkland is now 32-1 with 28 knockouts. Tapia is now 20-1.

Matthew Macklin pounded out a ten round unanimous decisioble n over previously undefeated Lamar Russ in a Middleweight bout.

Macklin controlled the action with solid ring generalship and he stuck the jab in the taller Russ’face. Macklin landed several hard blows in round nine that had Russ bleeding from the mouth and the defensive as the round ended. Russ came out and threw hard shots in round ten but none of consequence

Matt Korobov remained undefeated by scoring a 9th round stoppage over Derek Edwards in a Middleweight bout.

In round one, a body-head combination made Edwards buckle Korobov continued to pound Edwards to the body and the head for which he had Edwards stumbling into the ropes. Korobov landed a fuselage of shots until he was rocked badly by a hard right from Edwards. Korobov was clarly hurt and even turned his back in an effort to run away but two three more hard shots before the end of the first round. In round two, Korobov landed a hard straight left that sent Edwards sprawling into the ropes for a knockdown. Korobov rocked Edwards once again in round four when he landed a terrific three punch head combination.

Korobov scored a knockdown at the end of round seven from a hard left hand. The two went to war in round eight with Korobov getting the better of the two way action. Korobov ended the night by dropping Edwards in round nine from yet another straight left and referee Steve Smoger stopped the fight immediately at 28 seconds of round nine.

Korobov, 162.8 lbs of Orotukian, RUS is now 22-0 with 13 knockouts. Edwards, 161.8 lbs of Winston Salem, NC is now 26-3-1.

Toka Khan Clary survived two knockdowns and boxed his way to a six round unanimous decision over Ramsey Luna in a Super Featherweight bout featuring undefeated fighters.

Clary was quicker to the punch throughout as he hit and played good defense. In round four, Luna sent Clary down from a right hand and then dropped him again from a body shot. Clary was able to get out of the round and was never threatened the rest of the way.

Clary, 130.2 lbs of Providence, RI won by scores of 57-55 on all cards and is now 9-0-0-1. Luna, 131.2 lbs of Corpus Christi, TX is now 11-1.

Jesse Hart scored an explosive 1st round stoppage over Tyrell Hendrix in a scheduled six round Super Middleweight bout.

Hart rocked Hendrix with an uppercut an opened up with a huge flurry where he drilled Hendrix several more times before referee Steve Smoger stopped the bout at 1:20 of round one.

Hart, 168.2 lbs of Philadelphia is now 11-0 with 10 knockouts. Hendrix, 168.4 lbs of Los Angeles is now 10-3-2-1.

Julian Rodriguez scored a 4 round unanimous decision over Ryan Picou in a Jr. Welterweight bout.

Rodriguez pounded away on Picou in the 1st with blistering combinations. Picou, who was a late replacement tried and landed some shots here and there. Late in round two, Rodriguez continue to rock Picou for the duration of the fight.

Rodriguez, 140.6 lbs of Hasbrouck, NJ won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 2-0. Picou, 140 lbs of Las Vegas is now 0-2.

Egor Mekhontsev made a successful pro debut with a 3 round beat down of Peter Cajigas in a scheduled four round Light Heavyweight bout.

Mekhonstev showed quick hands and hard combinations over the first two rounds. Mekhonstev dropped Cajigas three times in round three all from all hard body shots and referee Steve Smoger stopped the bout at 35 seconds of round three.

Mekhonstev, 177.2 lbs of Asobest, RUS is now 1-0 with 1 knockout. Cajigas, 179.8 lbs of Franklin Park, IL is now 0-3-1.

Photos by Chris Farina / Top Rank

Guillermo Rigondeaux 121 – Joseph Agbeko 121.6
Lamar Russ 159 – Matthew Macklin 159
Glen Tapia 156 – James Kirkland 155.1
Egor Mekhonsev 177.2 – PJ Catages 179.8
Julian Rodriguez 140.6 – Ryan Piquot 140
Jesse Hart 168.2 – Tyrell Hendrix 168.4
Ramsey Luna 131.2 – Toka Khan Klary 132
Matt Korobov 162.2 – Derek Edwards 161.8
Tramaine Williams 122.6 – Jovanny Fuentes 121.8

HBO’s hit late-night boxing franchise wraps its 2013 slate with the world-class tripleheader HBO BOXING AFTER DARK: GUILLERMO RIGONDEAUX VS. JOSEPH AGBEKO, JAMES KIRKLAND VS. GLEN TAPIA AND MATTHEW MACKLIN VS. LAMAR RUSS, presented SATURDAY, DEC. 7 at 9:45 p.m. (live ET/tape-delayed PT) from Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, exclusively on HBO. The HBO Sports team of Jim Lampley, Max Kellerman and Andre Ward will be ringside for the action, which will be available in HDTV, closed-captioned for the hearing-impaired and presented in Spanish on HBO Latino.

Other HBO playdates: Dec. 8 (8:30 a.m.) and 9 (11:00 p.m.)
HBO2 playdates: Dec. 8 (5:00 p.m.) and 10 (11:30 p.m.)
In the main event, Cuban sensation Guillermo Rigondeaux (12-0, 8 KOs) puts his super bantamweight titles on the line against Joseph Agbeko (29-4, 22 KOs) of Accra, Ghana. After winning two Olympic Gold medals as an amateur, the Miami-based Rigondeaux, 33, has picked apart 122-pounders like no other in his brief pro career. Most recently, he tactically disposed of Nonito Donaire, one of the sport’s elite, scoring a 12-round unanimous decision in a high-profile unification fight. After a year’s layoff, Agbeko, 33, defeated Luis Melendez last March to win a bantamweight title. With notable victories over Luis Perez and Vic Darchinyan also on his resume, he will work to build on his bantamweight success, making his HBO debut in one of the most competitive weight classes.
The co-main event, a junior middleweight bout scheduled for ten rounds, features Glen Tapia (20-0, 12 KOs) of Passaic, NJ, risking his undefeated record against heavy-handed James Kirkland (31-1, 27 KOs) of Austin, Tex. Since July, Tapia, 23, has scored two knockout victories for his third and fourth wins of 2013. Returning to the ring after nearly two years, Kirkland, 29, expects to improve on the 87% victory by knockout rate that once exhilarated sweet science fanatics. His record includes wins over Alfredo Angulo, Carlos Molina, Joel Julio and Brian Vera.
The evening begins with middleweight contenders Matthew Macklin (29-5, 20 KOs) of Birmingham, England, and Lamar Russ (14-0, 7 KOs) of Wilmington, NC in a scheduled ten-round fight. After suffering a third-round knockout defeat to powerhouse Gennady Golovkin in June, Macklin, 31, hopes to return to the form that merited him a shot at a 154-pound title. Building his own convincing case for a title run, Russ, 26, has dominated opponents in 2013, winning by unanimous decision in each of his three fights.
Follow HBO boxing news at hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at twitter.com/hboboxing.
All HBO boxing events are presented in HDTV. HBO viewers must have access to the HBO HDTV channel to watch HBO programming in high definition.
The executive producer of HBO BOXING AFTER DARK is Rick Bernstein; producer, Dave Harmon; director, Doug Getts.

ATLANTIC CITY (November 13, 2013) — Undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) / World Boxing Organization (WBO) 122-pound world champion and Cuban sensation GUILLERMO “El Chacal” RIGONDEAUX returns to the ring fresh from his career-best victory. Rigondeaux will be bidding for Fighter of the Year honors when he defends his unified titles against former two-time world champion JOSEPH “King Kong” AGBEKO, Saturday, December 7, at Boardwalk Hall’s Adrian Phillips Ballroom in Atlantic City. The card will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark® beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT. The live telecast will also feature local favorite GLEN “Jersey Boy” TAPIA risking his Top-10 rating and undefeated record in a 10-round junior middleweight battle against knockout artist JAMES KIRKLAND and three-time world title challenger MATTHEW MACKLIN in a 10-round middleweight rumble against undefeated contender LAMAR RUSS.

These six gladiators boast a combined record of 135-10, 96 KOs — a winning percentage of 93% and a victory by knockout ratio of 71%.

Promoted by Top Rank®, in association with Caesars Atlantic City, Caribe Promotions, SMS Promotions, DiBella Entertainment and Tecate, tickets to the Rigondeaux vs. Agbeko world championship event go on sale Tomorrow! Thursday, November 14, at Noon ET. Priced at $200, $100. $50 and $25, plus applicable service charges, tickets can be purchased at Boardwalk Hall box office, all Ticketmaster locations and online at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call 800-736-1420.

“After a brilliant performance against Nonito Donaire, Rigondeaux puts his extraordinary skills to test on December 7 against Joseph Agbeko,” said Todd duBoef, president of Top Rank. “This bout epitomizes the contrast of style of slick boxer versus brawler. Which style will prevail?”

“On December 7, fans will see some of the fight game’s purest boxing and punching at its most distilled,” says Peter Nelson, director of programming, HBO Sports. “The Boardwalk in Atlantic City is the perfect home for three such intriguing match-ups.”

“I’m very excited to get back in the ring,” said Rigondeaux. “Joseph Agbeko is a great champion, and I believe all fans will be pleased with the type of performance we will both exhibit to end a great year of boxing. I believe Agbeko will come prepared, ready to engage and be very aggressive. We will both showcase our skills, and I am very pleased to have the opportunity to end 2013 the way I opened it up, with surprise and pure boxing class for the world to see. I would like to thank HBO, my promoters Top Rank and Caribe promotions, my manager Gary Hyde, advisor Alex Bornote, trainers Ramon Garbey, Joel Casamayor, Pedro Luis, and all those that have a part in making this fight happen.”

“This is going to be a great fight. I’m extremely motivated. I plan to make my country proud by becoming world champion again after I defeat Rigondeaux,” declared Agbeko.

“I’ve been waiting for this opportunity my whole life. Now that it’s here it’s time for me to show the world that I’m here to stay. This is just the beginning,” said Tapia.

“Tapia hasn’t fought anyone near my level. I’m going for the knockout,” said Kirkland.

“I am looking forward to getting back in the ring and back to my winning ways,” said Macklin. “I’ve seen a few of Russ’ fights and he’s very sharp, very skilled and he’s always in exciting fights as am I. This should be a great fight for the fans both in Atlantic City and those watching on HBO. A big win against Lamar will set me up nicely for a big 2014.”

“This is great opportunity for me and my team,” said Russ. “I want it to be known to the fans and to Macklin that on December 7th I am coming to fight and I am coming to win.”

“We are delighted that Joseph Agbeko has stepped up to the plate by challenging Rigo for his WBA and WBO world titles and we are looking forward to putting on a “master class performance” against little Joe December 7th,” said Gary Hyde, Rigondeaux’s manager.

“Joseph Agbeko is a great warrior in the tradition of African fighters like Azumah Nelson. He’s coming for the title and plans to lay it all on the line. He’s a legitimate danger to Rigondeaux,” said Frank Espinoza, Agbeko’s manager.

“I’d like to thank Top Rank and HBO for giving Glen this opportunity,” said Tapia’s manager Pat Lynch. “I know it’s something he’s worked really hard for. It’s going to be a great fight and Glen will not disappoint his fans on December 7.”

“Kirkland brings all-out aggression into the ring. He’s strong, powerful and exciting,” said Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, of SMS Promotions.

“Macklin-Russ should be a barnburner between two fighters who can bang,” said Lou DiBella, Macklin’s promoter. “The fight means so much to both boxers that it can’t help but be a good one and we are happy that it is on such a high quality card in Atlantic City.”

“We know that Russ will come to fight but we are very confident in Matt’s skills and experience and know those two assets will put us back into the win column,” said Macklin’s advisor Anthony Catanzaro.

“Caesars Atlantic City’s commitment to sponsoring some of the top sporting events on the East Coast is no more evident than with this December 7th HBO triple header set for historic Boardwalk Hall,” said Kevin Ortzman, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Caesars, Bally’s, and Showboat Atlantic City. “As a boxing fan, I’m particularly looking forward to the Tapia v. Kirkland bout. Given Tapia’s New Jersey roots and his quick growing reputation as an up and comer, this match already possesses a great storyline and will certainly be a high energy affair.”

Rigondeaux (12-0, 8 KOs), of Miami, Fla., returns to the ring after unifying the titles by defeating 2012 Fighter of the Year Nonito Donaire on April 13 at a sold-out Radio City Music Hall in New York. Rigondeaux thoroughly dominated Donaire via a unanimous decision victory, ending his 12-year, 30-bout winning streak, as well as claiming his WBO junior featherweight title. Rigondeaux had a stellar amateur career, winning Olympic gold medals in 2004 and 2000, World Amateur Championship titles in 2005 and 2001, and Pan American Games gold medals in 2005 and 2003, all at 119 pounds, before defecting from Cuba and embarking on a professional career which began in Miami in 2009. In only his seventh professional fight where both fighters scored knockdowns, Rigondeaux captured the WBA interim super bantamweight title, winning a tough split decision over the vastly more experienced former world champion Ricardo Cordoba in 2010. After successfully defending the interim title in 2011 with a first-round knockout of previously undefeated former European super bantamweight champion Willie Casey, Rigondeaux won the WBA world super bantamweight championship with a sixth-round knockout of previously undefeated defending champion Rico Ramos on January 20, 2012. Rigondeaux has successfully defended that title thrice since then, blasting once-beaten Teon Kennedy in the fifth round, which included Kennedy suffering five knockdowns en route to the loss, and winning a dominant unanimous decision over once-beaten contender Roberto Marroquin last year, on June 9 and September 15, respectively, and Donaire in their April title unification fight.

Before moving up to the junior featherweight division, Agbeko (29-4, 22 KOs), of Accra, Ghana, was one of the dominant forces of the bantamweight division. He captured his first International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight title just one month removed from his U.S. debut, on September 29, 2007, knocking out defending champion Luis Perez in the seventh round, ending Perez’s seven-year winning streak. Agbeko successfully defended the title twice, winning decisions over William Gonzalez and Vic Darchinyan, before losing it to Yonnhy Perez in October 2009. Agbeko avenged that loss and reclaimed the title in their rematch 15 months later. His second reign ended in his first defense, August 2011, a majority decision loss to Abner Mares, who also won the rematch in December of that same year. After taking over a year off, Agbeko returned to the ring last March 22, and defeated Luis Melendez to capture the IBO bantamweight title. Agbeko will be training with Roger Mayweather for his upcoming world title challenge.

Tapia (20-0, 12 KOs), of Passaic, NJ, will be fighting for the fifth time this year, only the second time he has fought this much in a calendar year. And why not? Tapia has starched three of the four opponents he has faced so far this year, with the highlight being his nationally-televised eighth-round knockout of undefeated Abie Han, in July, to capture the vacant NABO junior middleweight title. He returns to the ring fresh from knocking out Elco Garcia in the fifth round on September 28, in Atlantic City. Tapia is currently world-rated No. 9 and No. 10, by the WBO and IBF, respectively.

Promoted by rap star 50 Cent’s SMS Promotions, Kirkland (31-1, 27 KOs), of Austin, TX, returns to the ring after a 21-month hiatus spent dealing with legal issues. The two-fisted wrecking machine has acquired 11 of his last 12 victories by knockout dating back to 2007 and his victory by knockout ratio is an incredible 87%. Prominent victories on his resume include Alfredo Angulo, Carlos Molina, Joel Julio and Bryan Vera.

Macklin (29-5, 20 KOs), of Birmingham, England, has collected Irish, British and European middleweight and junior middleweight titles since making his pro debut in 2001. His steady rise up the ratings matched by his impressive victories earned him his first title shot, against WBA middleweight titlist Felix Sturm in 2011, in the defending champion’s backyard, Cologne, Germany. Macklin took it to Sturm from the opening bell but came up short on the judges’ scorecards, losing a split decision that many observers thought reeked of “home cooking” in favor of the out-gunned Sturm His performance earned him two more title fights, against middleweight champions Sergio Martinez and Gennady Golovkin, losing to both by stoppage.

Russ (14-0, 7 KOs), of Wilmington, NC, has twice served as WBA middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin’s lead sparring partner in previous training camps. Career highlights include spectacular back-to-back knockout victories over Jose Alonzo and Jonathan Cepeda, who boasted a combined record of 25-0 when Russ fought them in 2012. A graduate of Fayetteville State University with a degree in Business Administration, Russ has taken care of business in 2013 winning all three bouts by unanimous decision.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo, or facebook.com/hboboxing, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo or twitter.com/hboboxing.