October 4, 2024 – On Wednesday, October 2, a video went viral of Terence Crawford stating, “if Fundora’s licking his chops over my performance vs Israil Madrimov, then I should be licking my chops because Madrimov knocked Fundora out in sparring.”

Since then, the Fundora team have been receiving notifications of Crawford’s accusations. Hence, on Thursday, October 3, Coach Fundora spoke to Madrimov’s trainer, Joel Diaz, regarding the viral statement made by Terrance Crawford. During the conversation between Coach Diaz and Coach Fundora, Diaz mentioned that Madrimov’s Manager, Vadim Kornilov, was very perturbed at these false statements made by Crawford on a sparring session that happened over five years ago in which neither of them ever touched the canvas.

Per Madrimov and his whole team, they stated they have nothing but respect for Sebastian Fundora, and his whole team, and don’t take lies and disrespect lightly. Coach Fundora responded that “Team Diaz,” Madrimov’s coaching team, is family to him. They have all known each other from the Coachella Valley since they were kids.

“The Boxing Community in the Coachella Valley is extremely tight knit. We all respect each other for the work we put into our boxers, and Coaches’ Etiquette is an unbroken rule that we all abide by. There are plenty of ways of making fights professionally, without fabrication out of frustration. To reiterate Madrimov and his team are God fearing men, and it is very unlikely that they would ever speak ill of Sebastian Fundora, his sparring sessions and his team. No amount of facts or truth will convince a simpleton that they are wrong.”

“Terence Crawford should apologize for being so naive,” added Fundora’s promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz. “A great champion like him should be above this kind of childishness.”

Referencing the fact that the WBO have ordered Fundora and Crawford’s representatives to reach an agreement to fight by 4 pm on October 10, or the committee will order purse bids, Lewkowicz says there’s no need for a champion like Crawford to be engaging in schoolyard gossip.

“The fight is already going to happen. It’s bad business for Crawford to be trying to make a unified world champion look bad by spreading stupid rumors. You’re 37 years old. Spend your time training instead. You’re going to need it.”

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About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

By Norm Frauenheim

LOS ANGELES — Terence Crawford won the fight. But he didn’t beat his critics.

Crawford’s place in the pound-for-pound debate and indeed history are still an argument, one sure to be debated as much as ever after he won a fourth title in a fourth weight class with a unanimous decision over Israil Madrimov before an announced crowd of about 28,000 at BMO Stadium Saturday night.

Crawford moved up the scale to junior-middleweight. But he didn’t bring some of his singular brilliance with him. He believes this is his era. But that claim will have to wait. Madrimov did to Crawford what Errol Spence Jr, Shawn Porter and so many more could not. He took him to the score cards. 

Madrimov was the first fighter not knocked out by Crawford in eight years. Crawford (41-0, 31 KOs) had scored 11 straight stoppages. Then, the streak was snapped by an unlikely fighter, an Uzbek known more his amateur accomplishment than his pro resume.

Madrimov (10-1-1, 7 KOs) fought the feared Crawford on even terms. At times, he made Crawford look ordinary. Above all, he made him look beatable, especially if he faces Canelo Alvarez in another jump up the scale, this time to a projected bout at 168 pounds.

“He’s a hell of a fighter,’’ Crawford said.

Above all, Madrimov was a surprising fighter, unknown to most in the crowd. But his amateur education included tireless movement and shifting angles that seemed to baffle Crawford. Going into the final two rounds, it looked as if Crawford might lose on the cards. But a sudden, perhaps desperate aggressiveness, might have saved him in the end. He rocked Madrimov in the 11th and the 12th with with repeated uppercuts. On the official scorecards, it was 115-113, 116-112, 115-113, all for Crawford.  The Boxing Hour.com also scored it 115-113, also for Crawford..

But not everybody agreed, including Matchroom’s Eddie Hearn, Madrimov’s promoter.

“This fight was on a knife edge,’’ said Hearn, who especially angry at the 116-112 score. “In a title fight, you’ve got to rip the the belt off the defending champion.’’

Crawford didn’t do that. But he did leave the ring with the World Boxing Association’s version of the junior-middleweight title.

For Madrimov, it was enough to ask for a rematch. He asked Hearn to put one together for later in the year. But that depends on Crawford, who will be 37 on Sept. 28 and looked every bit his age. There’s speculation that Crawford is just a couple fights from retirement. The guess has been that he’ll cash out if and when he ever gets an opportunity to fight Canelo. If Canelo was watching Saturday, he had to like his chances.

Predictably patient and calculating in his debut at 154 pounds, Crawford began  slowly, perhaps studiously. It was the first stage in a search and destroy mission. The search was for an opening, a weakness in Madrimov’s style. But Crawford never did get to the destroy stage. 

Through the first five rounds, it was hard to find a weakness in Madrimov. The clever Uzbek presented Crawford with a problematic mix of angles and movement. He stepped to one side, bounced up and down at a rapid pace, then stepped to the other side. For Crawford, Madrimov’s style presented a tactical puzzle, one complicated by his tireless and purposeful movement.

Crawford, fighting out of a southpaw stance, managed to land a few right hands. But not one  appeared to do much damage. At times, he made Crawford look awkward. He tripped and fell in the fifth. 

All the while, Madrimov would land a jab, enough of them to leave a small bruise under Crawford’s right eye. With each passing round, it looked as if Madrimov was emboldened by his ability to fight the longtime pound-for-pound  contender on his own terms. He dictated the pace. Controlled the ring. 

In the seventh, Madrimov’s right hand landed with more frequency. In the ninth and tenth, Madrimov was the aggressor. Stubbornly, he moved forward, putting Crawford on his heels and  without any apparent fear of walking into one of his lethal counters.

“He fought a great fight,’’ Crawford said.

A surprising one, too

Valenzuela upsets Isaac Cruz

Jose Valenzuela kept moving.

In the end, he moved into a huge upset.

Valenzuela relied on patience, poise and precision, all enough to score a split decision over feared Isaac Cruz in the final fight before a main event featuring Terence Crawford-versus-Israil Madrimov Saturday in front of a capacity crowd at BMO Stadium Saturday.

Valenzuela (14-2 9 KOs), the new World Boxing Association junior-welterweight champion, had to endure — indeed survive — some rocky moments in the late rounds to secure the win over Cruz, a 5-to-1 betting favorite.

Cruz, ever aggressive, threw a jackhammer-like right hand out of a crouch. It stunned Valenzuela in the final seconds of the 11th. Had it happened earlier in the round, Cruz (26-3-1, 18 KOs) might have saved his belt 

But Valenzuela, of Renton WA,  made it back to his corner with his poise intact. after the 12th, two scorecards favored him, 116-112 both. On the third, it was 115-113 for Cruz.

“His smarts,” said his new rainer, Robert Garcia, who has moved into a corner that was once occupied by Jose Benavidez Sr. “He had to stay smart. Fight smart.”

He did, but his steady performance didn’t convince a crowd that included many Mexican fans. They booed the decision. Cruz, a Mexico City fighter nicknamed Pitbull, believed he did enough to win.

“So did the crowd,” Cruz said. “Listen to them.”

It sounded like an immediate rematch

Ruiz and Miller fight to a dull draw

It was a majority draw, Mostly a dud, too..

There was no winner Saturday in a heavyweight bout between Andy Ruiz and Jarrell Miller Saturday on the Crawford-Madrimov card at BMO Stadium 

In a plodding exhibition between fighters beyond their prime, there was mostly impatience from a gathering crowd anxious for the main event, or Eminem, or just an early stoppage. But there was no stoppage, no early end to a fight that generated boos before it reached the sixth round.

It was Ruiz’ first fight in 23 months. Ruiz (35-2-1, 22 KOs) had been idle for too long. His noted hand speed, the key to his memorable upset of Anthony Joshua, was gone. Midway through the fight, he became a one-handed fighter because of an apparent broken bone in his right.

That allowed Miller (26-1-2, 22 KOs) to assert himself. But he never really capitalized. His punches were hit-and-miss, mostly miss. In the end, he did enough to win on one scorecard, 116-112. On the other two cards however, it was a draw, 114-114.

“Let’s do it again,” Ruiz said to the crowd. “I’d love a rematch.”

He’d be the only one.

Jared Anderson falls in fifth-round beatdown

Jared Anderson began the day as America’s next great heavyweight.

But his future changed.

The next great was turned into just another American heavyweight. 

Martin Bekole (21-1, 16 KOs), a Congo heavyweight living in London, knocked the next out of Anderson’s future with a beatdown, three knockdowns in a stunning fifth-round stoppage Saturday on the Crawford-Madrimov card.

Anderson’s feet weren’t quick enough to elude Bekole. His jab didn’t have the power or precision to keep him off. Bekole simply moved forward, steamrolling Anderson  like a runaway truck on the nearby LA freeway.

Anderson (17-1, 15 KOs) was down late in the first round from an uppercut. He was down a second time midway through the fifth from another uppercut. Moments later, he delivered still another uppercut, dropping Anderson onto the canvas and under the bottom rope. He got up. But it was clear he was finished, a stoppage loser at 2:07 of the fifth.

Morrell wins light-heavy debut, calls out Benavidez

David Morrell didn’t waste much time after winning his light-heavyweight debut, a unanimous decision over Radivoje Kalajdzic.

Who’s next?

David Benavidez, he said.

“I want to fight Benavidez,” Morrell said after winning a vacant World Boxing Association title with a mixed performance in his first fight after moving up from super-middleweight. “I want him. Everybody knows that. Benavidez is the boogeyman. I’m here.”

Benavidez won his light-heavyweight debut, a decision over Oleksandr Gvozdyk, also in a mixed performance on June 15.

Before calling out the Phoenix fighter, it wasn’t exactly clear that Morrell (11-0, 9 KOs) had beaten Kalajdzic, a tough Serbian and a veteran light-heavyweight. Morrell appeared to tire Saturday on the Crawford-Madrimov undercard.  He pursued an early knockout. Midway through the 12-round bout, Kalajdzic (29-3, 21 KOs) moved forward and countered, often landing shots easily. Nevertheless, it was one-sided on the scorecards. It was 117-11,118-110 and 117-111, all for Morrell.

“I feel good,” said Morrell, who fought as though he was thinking more about Benavidez than Kalajdzic

Andy Cruz impresses, scores seventh-round stoppage of Moran 

Andy Cruz showed why he’s a prospect with a dramatic seventh-round stoppage of Antonio Moran in the third fight Saturday on the Crawford-Madrimov card.

Cruz (4-0, 2 KOs), a Cuban lightweight who won Olympic gold in a victory over Keyshawn Davis in 2021, staggered Moran i(30-7-1, 21 KOs) in the sixth.

Late in the seventh, he finished the job with a long right hand that traveled with laser-like precision. It sent Moran, of Mexico City, falling into the ropes, which were the only thing that kept him from falling out of the ring. At 2:59 of the seventh, it was over. 

Steve Nelson, Crawford stablemate, scored fifth-round TKO

Omaha super-middleweight Steve Nelson calls himself So Cold.

It’s a nickname he put to good use on a hot afternoon Saturday in the second fight on the card featuring Terence Crawford-Israil Madrimov at BMO Stadium, a soccer stadium within a few miles roadwork from the LA skyline.

In an outdoor ring at the center of the stadium floor, Nelson (20-0, 16 KOs), a Crawford stablemate, kept his cool, controlled the pace and then coolly scored a fifth-round TKO of Marcos Ramon Vazquez (20-1-1, 10 KOs) of Tijuana.

First Bell: Crawford-Madrimov opens with a draw.

It started with more people in the ring than in the seats.. Instead of cheers, there just echoes from the traffic that surrounded BMO Stadium.

But the show must go on and it did with Saudi welterweight Ziyad Almaayouf (5-0-1, 1 KO) and Michael Bulik (6-7-1, 2 KOs) fighting to a draw in the first fight on a card featuring Terence Crawford-Israil Madrimov Saturday under a hot sun at BMO Stadium.

Almaayouf appeared to be the busier fighter. Early on, he scored repeatedly with fast hands. On the scorecards, however, it was a majority draw — 57-57 twice and 59-55 on the third card.

6 x 3 mins International Welterweight contest
ZIYAD ALMAAYOUF 144 lbs v MICHAL BULIK 142.4 lbs
(Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)             (Opole, Poland)

followed by

10 x 3 mins International Super-Middleweight contest
STEVE NELSON 167.6 lbs v MARCOS RAMON VAZQUEZ 167.6lbs
(Omaha, USA)                         (Tijuana, Mexico)

followed by

15:00 LIVE ON DAZN PPV

10 x 3 mins IBF International & WBA Continental Latin-American Lightweight Titles
ANDY CRUZ 134 lbs v ANTONIO MORAN 134.8 lbs
(Mantazas, Cuba)         (Mexico City, Mexico)

followed by

12 x 3 mins vacant WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title
DAVID MORRELL 174.8 lbs v RADIVOJE KALAJDZIC 174.4 lbs
(Santa Clara, Cuba)                 (Brooklyn, USA)

followed by

10 x 3 mins NABF & WBO International Heavyweight Titles
JARED ANDERSON 252.4 lbs v MARTIN BAKOLE 284.4 lbs
(Toledo, USA)                              (Kananga Democratic Republic Of The Congo)

followed by

12 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest
ANDY RUIZ 274.4 lbs v JARRELL MILLER 305.6 lbs
(Imperial, USA)                (Brooklyn, USA)

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBA Super-Lightweight World Title
ISAAC CRUZ 140 lbs v JOSE VALENZUELA 139.8 lbs
(Mexico City, Mexico)    (Los Mochis, Mexico)

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBA Super-Welterweight World Title & WBO Interim Title
TERENCE CRAWFORD 153. 4 lbs v ISRAIL MADRIMOV 154 lbs
(Omaha, USA)                                     (Chiva, Uzbekistan)  

By Norm Frauenheim –

LOS ANGELES — It was a ceremonial weigh-in, which is another way of saying it was phony. But there was nothing phony about the look. From Terence Crawford, it never has been.

Crawford looked at and through Israil Madrimov the way he has throughout a career introduced and defined by unblinking, unforgiving eyes impossible to ignore and intense enough to fear. Crawford doesn’t say much. He doesn’t have to. Those eyes say it all. They have throughout a career without a loss and never a sign of hesitancy or self-doubt.

Errol Spence has seen it. Shawn Porter, and so many more, have seen it. It was Madrimov’s turn at LA Live in downtown Los Angeles Friday about 24 hours before their junior-middleweight title fight at BMO Stadium just a few miles of roadwork down the freeway.

They had already made weight earlier in the day behind closed doors for the California State Athletic  Commission. Crawford (40- 31 KOs) was at 153.4 pounds. Madrimov (10-0-1, 7 KOs) was at the 154-pound limit. A ceremonial version in front of fans and cameras was next. It’s one way to sell the pay-per-view for a card scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m. PT (4:30 ET). It’s mostly theater, rehearsed and packaged. 

But for Crawford it was one more chance to unleash a look seen for the first time for the fighter standing across from him. We’ve seen the look on video and in photos. For those last few moments on a stage in downtown LA, however, it included more than just ceremony. There was chaos. At least, that was the promise, the forecasted threat, on the night before the first jab ignites the controlled violence.

Did it affect Madrimov? We won’t know until opening bell in a soccer stadium built on real estate that once included the old Sports Arena, a cornerstone to LA’s rich boxing history. But the look was a sure sign that the fight was already underway in the minds of both Crawford and Madrimov.  

“I was already the best at 154 when I stepped into this division,’’ said Crawford, a former undisputed champion at welterweight and junior-welter, who will fight for the first time at junior-middle against Madrimov, the champion about to make a first-time defense.

Madrimov is given a chance because of his familiarity at the weight. He’s a natural junior-middleweight. Then again, Crawford might be a natural force-of-nature. He’s on a roll, including a streak of 11 successive stoppages. 

The argument is that eventually a move up the scale will stop Crawford, end his pound-for-pound reign. Madrimov appeared to be unshaken by a look that has left a lot of Crawford opponents beaten before the first counter lands.

“I have a plan,’’ said the unbeaten Uzbek, who has been training in the desert east of Los Angeles under veteran trainer Joel Diaz’ guidance. “I have a plan to showcase my skills and prove I’m the best in this division.’’

Madrimov, mostly unknown among Mexican-American fans in Southern California, possesses athleticism and two-fisted power. Like Crawford, he’s versatile, able to switch from southpaw to orthodox and back.

A former gymnast, his footwork includes angles that could give Crawford problems. He’s an educated fighter, one who learned the craft through a decorated amateur career that includes more than 300 bouts. 

Translation: He knows what he’s doing. But, Crawford said, he’ll have to know a lot more than just that.

Crawford says he has beaten a lot of fighters whose resume includes trophies and medals.

“They all left the ring the same way, and I look for him to leave the same way,’’ Crawford said moments after a stare down that has always included an unmistakable look at him.

And what he intends to do. 

On The Undercard 

Former unified heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. (35-2, 22 KOs), who is coming off a 23-month layoff,  faces Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller (26-1-1, 22 KOs). Miller was at 305.6 pounds, the lightest Miller has weighed in six years. Ruiz was at 274.4 pounds, the heaviest he’s been since his rematch loss to Anthony Joshua in December 2019. “This is everything for me, of course it is,’’ said Ruiz, remembered for his huge upset of Joshua in New York. “I had everything in the palm of my hand. Then, it just went away. I want to be a damn champion again.’’

In another heavyweight fight,  promising Jared Anderson (17-0, 15 KOs) is in for his toughest test against Martin Bakole (20-1, 15 KOs). Anderson was at a career-high 252.4 pounds. Bakole also came in at a career-high weight, 284.4 pounds.

Mexican junior-welterweight champion Isaac Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KOs) got huge cheers from Mexican fans  He was at 140 pounds against Jose Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs), who was at 139.8.

David Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs), a Cuban living in Minneapolis, looks as if  he’s a possibility at light-heavyweight for David Benavidez, the Phoenix fighter who has decided to stay at 175 pounds. Benavidez relinquished his spot as the WBC’s so-called mandatory challenger to Canelo Alvarez’ super-middleweight title. Instead, Benavidez, who hopes to resume his career later this year, has a so-called mandatory shot at the 175-pound winner of Dmitry Bivol-versus-Artur Beterbiev in October. Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs) will be at light-heavy for a vacant title against Radivoje Kalajdzic (29-2, 21 KOs). Morrell, who has scored seven successive stoppages, was at 174.8 pounds Friday. Kalajdzic was at 174.4.

Andy Cruz (3-0, 1 KO), an Olympic gold medalist from Cuba, was at 134 pounds for his lightweight bout against Antonio Moran, who came in at 134.8. Cruz is a Boots Ennis stablemate. “Boots will be here, at ringside,’’ Cruz said of Philadelphia’s welterweight champion. Ennis wants to fight Crawford, who instead might be in line for a big-money bout against 168-pound Canelo. 

EDDIE HEARN, MATCHROOM SPORT CHAIRMAN

“We want to thank the Crown Prince and of course His Excellency Turki Alalshikh. His passion and his belief to take Riyadh Season to what it was in Saudi Arabia to what it is a global phenomenon for boxing around the world.

“For me this is the greatest boxing card in American history. The movement is real and it’s unbelievable we all have heard of the Four Seasons but now there’s another season, Riyadh Season. Riyadh Season is now represented around the world and quality from the teams and thanks to this amazing moment in boxing with all these great promoters coming together. On Saturday night, we have the greatest fight card we have ever seen and BMO Stadium will be a spectacle for fight and sports fans from around the world with an incredible night of boxing.

“The first press conference was fine for an undercard. Now we step up to part two of the press conference and I look to my right and left and we have individual fights that could headline any fight on any platform, any network and any arena in the U.S. I think it just shows the depth of this card and in one crazy week in New York a couple of months ago when all the promoters from around the world came together to deliver this country’s greatest fight card they had ever seen. Then, Turki Alalshikh added two to three more fights and then he added Eminem.

“This in my opinion is the greatest fight card the country has ever seen. These three fights will set BMO Stadium on fire Saturday night, don’t miss it. What a night.
“We have been through the undercard of what is the biggest night of boxing in the history of this country. We are going to have a night you won’t forget and we are going to be full to capacity at BMO Stadium live on DAZN and around the world. It’s an honour to be a part of this event.

“For me Terence Crawford should be an American superstar. He’s everything that is great about sports and competition. His mindset is living his life like a true great and we should appreciate him while he’s here. He will be remembered as a true great of this sport.

“This guy to my left is a serious man (Madrimov). Since he turned professional he came out as one of the best amateurs from Uzbekistan we have. We have been waiting for an opportunity to show his greatness. Nobody ever wanted to fight him and he’s a 154-pound wrecking machine. Not just with power and chin, but with great movement and ring IQ. On Saturday night this will be the toughest fight of Terence Crawford’s career no doubt at all. You’re going to see a wonderful fight between two modern day greats.”

TERENCE CRAWFORD

“I would like to thank God for blessing me to be here today. I would like to thank Team Madrimov for accepting the challenge and thank you to Turki Alalshikh for putting an excellence card together and thank everybody for supporting all the fighters on the card.

“I’m expecting Israil (Madrimov) to come out and do what he’s been doing as he’s been phenomenal in the fights that he’s had. People are forgetting I’m strong and punch hard too. People keep thinking this whole fight he’s the bigger guy and stronger guy since I’m moving up in weight. We always have these same questions in other fights against bigger guys, but when they get in the ring with me I’m stronger than they thought.

“I’m going to be stronger at 154 pounds and be more energised. It’s going to be less stress on my body with the weight and I’m going to be ready. I’m good right now and I expect to win however it comes if it’s a knockout, a decision I expect to win.” 

BRIAN ‘BOMAC’ MCINTYRE

“The journey has been a struggle at times, but it’s been fun most of the time. I’m sure me and any of the team members wouldn’t want to change it. We build character inside the team and we are happy and excited to be here, but we came here to do a job.

“The challenge of moving to 154 and fighting Madrimov is a hill that you have to climb. I know that the team and everybody around the team want challenges like that so you can say we are the best out there. We have solidified that over the years.” 

ISRAIL MADRIMOV

“This fight is a big chance for me. I am fighting the best boxer in the world. This is a dream come true. I feel great and want to be a part of history.

“All the respect to team Crawford. As I said before he’s my favourite fighter, but at the same time I believe that I can prove that I’m the best in the world as well. I believe that anything is possible. My dream is to create something that nobody expects and do something and win the fight that nobody expects me to win and I believe I can do that Saturday.”

JOEL DIAZ

“We have a lot of respect for Team Crawford. We’re grateful for the opportunity, but everybody that knows us and my team knows that we train to win. We have been on the B side many times and we get the victory. I think Saturday night is going to be one of those nights. A lot of people don’t know Israil Madrimov, but he needed this fight. He needed this opportunity so that the world could know him. You guys are going to see what a great fighter, what a great athlete, and a person Israil Madrimov is.”

JARED ANDERSON

“I’m extremely honoured and blessed to be here. I’m basking in the moment. This is an amazing card, an amazing place to be… LA is an amazing place to be. I just know that I’m gonna show why I’m here and why they say that I’m the future.”

MARTIN BAKOLE

“I’ve always wanted a big fight and Saturday night I’m going to face the best heavyweight in America for my first debut in America. I’m so excited!”

ANDY RUIZ

“I know that he’s coming hungry, I know he wants to win, but so do I. I want to win, I’m hungry and I’m motivated. I’m physically ready and prepared.. Let’s do this!”

JARRELL MILLER

“One thing about me, I’ve never run from a fight. I never have and never will.

“I work hard, don’t get it twisted. When I’m in that gym I’m busting my ass.The Dubois fight woke up a demon in me man, it woke up a demon in me that I haven’t seen in awhile and come August third I’m beating Andy Ruiz up.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“We’re very very happy, we’re very determined, and we have a goal in mind which is to defend this newly won world title.

“We’re expecting the very best from [Valenzuela], but the main thing is that I’m coming into this really well prepared, and I’m intending to come away with the victory.

“We can’t wait to get started, we can’t wait to climb into that ring. I know that there will be a massive Mexican presence there, it’s going to be fantastic to hear so many Mexican fans there. We’re going to put on a great show, I know it’s going to be a challenge, but we’re going to put on a show, it’s going to be great.”

JOSE  VALENZUELA

“This is what I’ve been training for my whole life, we had a great training camp and I’m ready to make the most of it.

“I have the height, I have the length, I have the skills, and I’ve sharpened up everything to come prepared.”

ANDY CRUZ

“A big thanks to Eddie and everyone else putting this on and a big thank you to my team as well. We prepared really well and I’m honoured and pleased to be a part of the biggest bill in boxing this year possibly. I’m not one for talking too much. I think I’m ready and I think it’s better to leave any predictions and talk in the ring.”

ANTONIO MORAN

“Thank you to everyone and I am grateful to take part in such a massive event. I think in the game of boxing it’s more important to do your talking in the ring than out of the ring. I’ve gone through a lot and progressed a lot since my fight with Devin Haney and I’m ready to go on Saturday night.”

DAVID MORRELL

“Thank you everybody for coming. At 168, nobody wants to fight me so I’m going to 175, so I can fight the big name. That’s why I came out at 175 for this.” 

RADIVOJE KALAJDZIC

“I believe I am the underdog and I will leave it at that, but we will see on Saturday night. Regardless of size, David (Morrell) is good. He’s got skill, power and everything. It’s going to be a tough match and I believe he’s the best at 168 and now in this weight class we will see Saturday night.” 

MARCOS VASQUEZ

“First of all thanks to everyone who put this show on. I’m a guy from Tijuana just down the road and people from Tijuana don’t come into fights like this to lose. I’ve come here with full support from my coaches and we’ve put in a tremendous amount of work to build up to this. I know it’s a pleasure and an honour to be part of such a fantastic and momentous occasion. I’ve come here to do the business and to take the title back to Tijuana and my family.” 

STEVE NELSON

“Being on this card and I think everyone that put this card together, so to be on this card is a blessing. We train everyday and I train next to ‘Bud’ (Crawford) since I started boxing at the age of 21. To be here and to be in front of everybody to explain my talent is amazing. 

“This year it’s not even halfway through and it’s been a tough year for me. I’m usually the guy that is joking and playful, but right now I have a lot of tension that I have to let out. I’m sorry to my opponent and it’s nothing personal to him, but it’s personal to me.” 

ZIYAD ALMAAYOUF

“I want to thank the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, the King, His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince for the faith in me to be a flag bearer in such a revolutionary time for the Kingdom. I want to thank His Excellency Turki Alalshikh for believing in me and his unprecedented support.

“I just love the story that I am in because it’s a multigenerational story that I’m in. Every generation you get the power puncher, every generation you get the fast one, the slick one, but it’s only multi-generation you get the history maker, the superhero not just representing a state or city, but a country and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the whole Arab part of the world. I love to make history and I just want to make history on Saturday night. I want to become the first of many Saudi fighters who come after me so I can become the first champion from Saudi Arabia.” 

MICHAEL BULIK

“I’m very excited to be here and get the opportunity to show my skills on the big stage, so I can show you how I dance in the ring between the ropes so thank you for everything.

“It’s boxing so we are going to see what happens. I am going to show my best skills and see what happens in the ring. I want to finish the fight in the third round, but we will see what happens.”

SPENCER BROWN

“I just think this is the pinnacle of boxing. It’s great to be in LA with such talent. Every Riyadh  card we do there’s an upset and there’s always a big upset. I’m looking at these fights and it’s very 50/50. Andy Ruiz is coming back and we love him. It’s fantastic to see since he’s been out for two years. I think he’s going to be as good as he ever was.

“I think Jared Anderson is the future of heavyweight boxing and that’s not just from me but from the people I’ve spoken to. He has to get past Martin Bakole, who is a 6-foot-6 smashing machine that can fight against anybody. There’s going to be an upset on this card on Saturday night.

“We discussed putting this show on in America and we didn’t think it would get this big, but as we can see it’s a world class card. I have to congratulate Eddie Hearn for doing this as he’s the main powerhouse behind, him and Turki Alalshikh. This is just the start of it, you are going to see big events in the U.S. not just in Las Vegas or Los Angeles, but in the biggest boxing places in the world. One of his visions is America so we have to tip our hats off to him.” 

Crawford vs. Madrimov tops a blockbuster Los Angeles Riyadh Season Card this weekend, Mexico’s Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KOs) defends his WBA Super-Lightweight World Title against Jose Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs), former Unified Heavyweight World Champion Andy Ruiz Jr. (35-2, 22 KOs) returns against New York’s Jarrell ‘Big Baby’ Miller (26-1-1, 22 KOs), undefeated Heavyweight contender Jared Anderson (17-0, 15 KOs) collides with Martin Bakole (20-1, 15 KOs) in a an explosive match-up for the NABF and WBO International Titles, Cuba’s David Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs) takes on Radivoje ‘Hot Rod’ Kalajdzic (29-2, 21 KOs) for the vacant WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title, Olympic Lightweight Champion Andy Cruz (3-0, 1 KO )continues his 135lbs campaign when he takes on Mexico’s Antonio Moran (30-6-1, 21 KOs) with the IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American Titles on the line, unbeaten Super-Middleweights Steve Nelson (19-0, 15 KOs) and Marcos Ramon Vazquez (20-0-1, 10 KOs) meet over ten rounds and Saudi Arabian Welterweight talent Ziyad Almaayouf (5-0, 1 KO) fights in the US for the first time against Poland’s Michal Bulik (6-7, 2 KOs). 

LAS ANGELES (July 31, 2024) – Pound-for-pound great, three-division world champion, and two-division undisputed champion Terence “Bud” Crawford and WBA Junior Middleweight World Champion Israil Madrimov hosted an open media workout today at the iconic Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles, Calif., in advance of their blockbuster pay-per-view event on Saturday, August 3 at BMO Stadium. The event, which will feature a guest performance by global superstar EMINEM, will be available live worldwide on DAZN PPV and ESPN+ PPV, and is brought to fans by Visit Saudi, MDL Beast, and Red Sea Global.

The event is promoted by Riyadh Season, Sela, League 1, and Matchroom Boxing in association with World of Boxing, TGB Promotions, Goldstar, Queensberry, Salita Promotions, and Warriors Boxing Promotions.

Crawford (40-0, 31 KOs) of Omaha, Neb., has won 11 straight fights by stoppage and is now moving up in weight to challenge Madrimov (10-0-1, 7 KOs) of Uzbekistan, who won the WBA 154-pound belt in March with a fifth-round TKO over Magomed Kurbanov in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The stacked undercard features fan favorite, WBA 140-pound Champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KOs), as he makes his first world title defense against Jose “El Rayo” Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs). Former unified heavyweight world champion Andy Ruiz Jr. (35-2, 22 KOs) returns from an almost two-year layoff to fight Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller (26-1-1, 22 KOs). American heavyweight sensation Jared Anderson (17-0, 15 KOs) faces fellow knockout artist Martin Bakole (20-1, 15 KOs). Cuban standout David Morrell Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs), who has won his last seven straight fights by stoppage, is stepping up in weight to meet former world title challenger Radivoje Kalajdzic (29-2, 21 KOs) for the WBA “Regular” Light Heavyweight Title. Cuban Olympic gold medalist Andy Cruz (3-0, 1 KO) seeks to continue his rapid ascension up the lightweight rankings against battle-tested Mexican power puncher Antonio Moran (30-6-1, 21 KOs) in a 10-round clash.

This is what the fighters had to say:

TERENCE CRAWFORD

“I feel great, come Saturday I got a treat for y’all. I’m expecting him to do anything he can to throw me off, but I said it before and I’ll say it again, this is the Terence Crawford era and I’m taking that belt.

“I’m just so competitive that when I think I’ve reached my ceiling, there’s always that extra push to do something that I haven’t done before.”

ISRAIL MADRIMOV

“I feel great, I’ve waited for this moment for a long time. My dream is coming true. Saturday night I’ll show every boxing fan a great fight.

“I’m only thinking about the victory, and I will show everything that I have inside the ring.”

JARED ANDERSON

“I’m ready to showcase all my talent and ready to show my whole arsenal. I’ve learned to stay on my plan, stick to the basics and win at anything necessary.”

MARTIN BAKOLE

“I feel great and I’m ready to go on Saturday night. I think I’m the better fighter and this fight is going to end in a knockout.”

ANDY “THE DESTROYER” RUIZ

“I feel good man, I feel amazing. I’m blessed to be here and August 3rd is going to be an amazing time. I’m more hungry than ever, I want to be a two time heavyweight champion of the world, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do Saturday.”

JARRELL “BIG BABY” MILLER

“I feel great losing 47 pounds and I put in all the work and I’m in shape. I feel because I have been out of the ring for so long that losing the weight helped me bring me back to the right technique.”

“ISAAC “PITBULL” CRUZ

“My team is up for it, we’re all motivated, and I’m convinced that the fans will come Saturday to watch a great fight. I think that I’m prepared for any fight that [Valenzuela] brings to me, we’ve got plans for any eventualities. I’m hoping for a great fight and to bring the title back home.

“I’d like to thank my fans with all my heart for their support, we’re all Mexicans together and we’re going to raise that Mexican flag high on Saturday.

JOSE “ EL RAYO” VALENZUELA

“This fight is a dream come true, to fight for a world title, this is it, the biggest stage.

“Winning the title would mean the world to me after all of the sacrifices my parents made to get me here.”

ANDY “ EL DIAMANTE” CRUZ

“I’m really happy to be here and feel motivated and can’t wait for Saturday night. I’m facing an experienced guy in the professional field of the game, but at the end of the day it’s a boxing match and I’m sure he will get the best out of me. I’m hoping this is a window that can push me even further into my career.”

ANTONIO MORAN

“I know Los Angeles has a pretty high Mexican population, so I feel they got my back and I feel they have my support and that will be in my favor. I think the experience can work in my favor and I have a bit more strength as well.”

DAVID MORRELL

“I feel great and it’s amazing to be here. It’s been a long time since I fought at 175 so I feel good and I’m ready. I’m ready for whatever fight it’s going to be and I’ve been training hard.”

RADIVOJE KALAJDZIC

“I want the best, that’s why I signed up for this fight. I want to fight the best fighters and he is one of the best. I just have to stick to the game plan in order to beat him.”

ZIYAD ALMAAYOUF

“I just saw the youngest person I could find to bring him to the ring so he could have his time and his opportunity like I would have wished somebody did with me when I was that young. I wanted to bring someone from Los Angeles here and bring someone from the younger generation here. 

“If you go back 10 years ago and you would have told me that one day I would make my U.S. debut on a Terence Crawford card I wouldn’t have entertained it and there’s no way it would ever happen.”

For additional fight information, please click HERE. 

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ABOUT CRAWFORD VS. MADRIMOV

His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), presents a blockbuster world title clash as pound-for-pound superstar Terence “Bud” Crawford challenges Israil Madrimov for the WBA and WBO interim World Super Welterweight Title on Saturday, August 3. Sponsored by Visit Saudi, MDL Beast, and Red Sea Global, the event will take place at BMO Stadium, Los Angeles, Calif. The event, which will feature a guest performance by global superstar EMINEM, will be promoted by Riyadh Season, Sela, League 1, and Matchroom Boxing in association with World of Boxing, TGB Promotions, Golden Boy, Goldstar, Queensberry, Salita Promotions, and Warriors Boxing Promotions.

Cuban sensation Andy Cruz has promised to steal the show when he takes on Mexico’s Antonio Moran for the IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American Lightweight Titles on the undercard of Terence Crawford’s blockbuster clash with Israil Madrimov this Saturday at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, shown live worldwide on DAZN PPV.

Cruz struck gold at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo in the Lightweight division against Keyshawn Davis in the delayed games in August 2021 and added an incredible third straight AIBA World Championship gold at Light-Welterweight in Serbia three months later, putting that medal next to those he landed at the World Championships in Germany and Russia in 2017 and 2019.

The 28-year-old is now 3-0 (1 KO) as a professional since putting pen to paper on a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing back in May 2023, breezing past Juan Carlos Burgos, Jovanni Straffon and Brayan Zammaripa Rodriguez last time out at Caribe Royal Orlando in February.

Next up for the former amateur star is Mexico City’s ‘Tono’ Moran (30-6-1, 21 KOs), a former WBO Latino Lightweight and WBA Fedecentro Super-Lightweight and Welterweight Champion, and Cruz is predicting fans will be treated to his best performance yet as he looks to light up LA.

“I’m really happy with my journey, I think I’ve really learnt a lot and I continue to keep learning,” said Cruz. “I think this is the beginning of a great career with Matchroom. I couldn’t be happier. These are the opportunities that I have been looking for and I really want to take advantage of them.

“In all my fights I feel that pressure to put on an explosive display but I think it’s a positive thing, it makes me sharper and it makes me more dangerous. I’m really going to put on a show. I don’t know much about Moran or his style but I’ve been working hard in camp and I know I’m going to put on a spectacular show.”

Cruz says he is coming on leaps and bounds under the guidance of Derek ‘Bozy’ Ennis in Philadelphia alongside fellow Matchroom star ‘Boots’ Ennis, and the 135lbs contender believes he is in the best place to push on with his pro career. 

“I’ve adapted really well and I think it was a great decision to train in Philadelphia. I’ve really learnt a lot. Jaron is one of the best boxers I’ve seen. I’ve seen a lot of boxers with different styles and he’s really something special.

“We’ve sometimes have sparring sessions when other boxers don’t come to the gym – we spar each other and we interchange our abilities and our skills. It’s great gym experience. I try to incorporate some of his skills into my style.” 

Crawford vs. Madrimov tops a blockbuster Los Angeles Riyadh Season Card this weekend, Mexico’s Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KOs) defends his WBA Super-Lightweight World Title against Jose Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs), former Unified Heavyweight World Champion Andy Ruiz Jr. (35-2, 22 KOs) returns against New York’s Jarrell ‘Big Baby’ Miller (26-1-1, 22 KOs), undefeated Heavyweight contender Jared Anderson (17-0, 15 KOs) collides with Martin Bakole (20-1, 15 KOs) in a an explosive match-up for the NABF and WBO International Titles, Cuba’s David Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs) takes on Radivoje ‘Hot Rod’ Kalajdzic (29-2, 21 KOs) for the vacant WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title, Olympic Lightweight Champion Andy Cruz (3-0, 1 KO) continues his 135lbs campaign when he takes on Mexico’s Antonio Moran (30-6-1, 21 KOs) with the IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American Titles on the line, unbeaten Super-Middleweights Steve Nelson (19-0, 15 KOs) and Marcos Ramon Vazquez (20-0-1, 10 KOs) meet over ten rounds and Saudi Arabian Welterweight talent Ziyad Almaayouf (5-0, 1 KO) fights in the US for the first time against Poland’s Michal Bulik (6-7, 2 KOs). 

LAS VEGAS (July 30, 2024) – Pound-for-pound great and three-division world champion Terence “Bud” Crawford and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Israil Madrimov made their grand arrivals today at the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles, Calif., ahead of their 154-pound showdown on Saturday, August 3 at BMO Stadium. The event will be available live worldwide on DAZN PPV and ESPN+ PPV, brought to you by Visit Saudi, MDL Beast, and Red Sea Global.

The event will be promoted by Riyadh Season, Sela, League 1, and Matchroom Boxing in association with World of Boxing, TGB Promotions, Goldstar, Queensberry, Salita Promotions, and Warriors Boxing Promotions.

This is what the fighters had to say:

TERENCE CRAWFORD

“I feel good, I’m feeling great. I’m ready to fight but all my people always try to remind me to enjoy the moment because one day it’s all going to be gone, so embrace it while you can.   

“Like I always say everything happens for a reason and for that reason God didn’t bless me then, but he blessed me now when I’m more mature and can handle everything that comes my way. Who knows where I would have been had I got everything that I wanted when he was younger and immature.”

ISRAIL MADRIMOV

“I’ve been waiting a long time for this moment and we are here and just waiting for Saturday where I want a victory. I like this moment and the first time in my life and only imagined something like this would happen to me.

“Our training has been good and I’m feeling great. I want to make a good game plan and it will be a great fight on Saturday. I don’t think this fight is about the size, it’s about the experience and knowledge he can use. This division is my division and I’m the champion, I have to defend the belt.”

JARED ANDERSON 

“I can’t wait to see it and for him (Bakole) to show me if he could knock me out. Every fight gets me one step closer, I’m here to win, I’m here to perform, I’m here to put on a show for the crowd. As you can see they’re excited already. I’m just here to do my job.”

MARTIN BAKOLE

“I want to say thank you for my team and for having me today. I came to America on business, I did not come here to joke, I did not come here to play. I will knockout Anderson.

ANDY “THE DESTROYER” RUIZ

“Burritos and Nachos have been helping win all my fights and become champion of the world so nothing wrong about that. And that is exactly what I’m going to do on August 3. I’m going to win. I’m going to get this victory and this victory will be for God.

“No matter how tall you are. How big you are and how much muscle you have. It’s all about what you have inside. And I have a big heart.

“I feel really good. I feel sharp. We did all the hard work in the gym. Yes, I had a two-year layoff but that doesn’t mean that I was outside of the gym, you know. I was still training. I was still disciplined. Even through my ups and downs, God was with me and that’s why we are going to win on Saturday night. 

“I had it all and I wanted back. I was the unified heavyweight champion of the world and then boom. It went away. I want it back and I have to do. I know exactly what I did wrong. And I know what I have to do to get it all back.”

JARRELL “BIG BABY” MILLER

“I feel great. I haven’t been eating like my man Andy [Ruiz] here. I put down the tacos, burritos, the burgers and hard work baby. 

“I come to win. I come to knock people out. I destroy people. He may be the destroyer but I’m the one who destroys people. Ready to work.

“This is the opportunity to get back what I’ve lost. Me and Eddie [Hearn] have a bromance hell or behave relationship. But that’s life. You become a man. Have a conversation and sort things out and move on and move forward.

“This fight is not personal. Andy replaced me a couple of years ago and got that big check and now I have to fuck him up. I’m going to turn his ass into burritos and nachos after this one.” 

ISAAC “PITBULL” CRUZ

“I’m really happy to be fighting and I prepared very hard. It’s a great feeling to be coming to Los Angeles as a world champion. I’m going to put out a great show for the Californians and for my people from Mexico.”

“I want to give 1000% of what I got and I am going to give every once of energy, so the people can see my great performance and so I can deliver on Saturday night.”

JOSE “ EL RAYO” VALENZUELA

“All the hard work gives me confidence in this fight. I’ve been very focused and training hard and I’m ready to make the best of it. Just being smart and being relaxed will help me deal with the pressure during this fight.”

ANDY “ EL DIAMANTE” CRUZ

“I feel happy and motivated. I’m proud to be part of such a great event and I think we are going to put on a great show on Saturday night.”

“I have a great team behind me. I have made some adjustments thanks to my great team including Bozy Ennis. 

“I’m going to win. No matter what. I’m winning.”

ANTONIO MORAN

“We are going to put on a great spectacle. We are going to give the fans what they want.

“I think that the both of us are here because we are at a similar level. I have 38 fights under my belt. He’s good too. This is an even matchup.”

DAVID MORRELL

“I feel good. It’s been a long time since the last time I fought at this weight and I’m ready.” 

“I want to put on a good show for my people, for my fans. This is a new David Morrell. This Morrell at 175 is vicious. I’m excited about the opportunities at this division.”

RADIVOJE KALAJDZIC

“I feel great, I’m excited to be on this big event against a fighter live David so I can showcase my skills, and I’m just excited. He comes to fight, I come to fight, it’s going to be an exciting fight.”

STEVEN NELSON

“I’m here to get my opportunity and show the world that I can do it inside and outside of the ring, that’s why they call me ‘So Cold’ because I’m so cold in everything that I do.”

ZIYAD ALMAAYOUF

“The Saudi superhero is on a mission abroad. Batman has left Gotham City but he never doesn’t return. I’m here to do a job, I’m gonna do the job.” 

“As much pressure as this is, even more privilege comes with it, to be a flag bearer, to be a superhero, to be a symbol, to not only a state or a city, but a country as is in Saudi Arabia, but I can even go as far as saying the Arab world. That whole side of the world I carry with me when I go into the ring, and this is all due to the two holy mosques, the king, the crown prince and his excellency, Turki Alalshikh for giving me the opportunity and the faith, they gave it to the right guy”.

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ABOUT CRAWFORD VS. MADRIMOV

His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), presents a blockbuster world title clash as pound-for-pound superstar Terence “Bud” Crawford challenges Israil Madrimov for the WBA and WBO interim World Super Welterweight Title on Saturday, August 3. Sponsored by Visit Saudi, MDL Beast, and Red Sea Global, the event will take place at BMO Stadium, Los Angeles, Calif. The event, which will feature a guest performance by global superstar EMINEM, will be promoted by Riyadh Season, Sela, League 1, and Matchroom Boxing in association with World of Boxing, TGB Promotions, Golden Boy, Goldstar, Queensberry, Salita Promotions, and Warriors Boxing Promotions.

Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV presents Junior Middleweight Championship Terence Crawford vs. Israil Madrimovlive thisSaturday, August 3, at 6 p.m. ET from BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.

The Riyadh Season Card is available for purchase on ESPN+ PPV in the United States. ESPN+ subscribers can purchase the $79.99 PPV here (a separate streaming subscription is required), and new subscribers can sign up for ESPN+ here.

Three-weight world champion and two-division undisputed king Terence Crawford looks to conquer a fourth weight class when he takes on WBA junior middleweight world champion Israil Madrimov.

Crawford (40-0, 31 KOs) moves up to 154 pounds following last July’s career-defining TKO over Errol Spence Jr. to win the undisputed welterweight championship. The Omaha, Nebraska, native and pound-for-pound superstar has won 11 straight fights by stoppage. Madrimov (10-0-1, 7 KOs), a native of Uzbekistan, captured the WBA 154-pound crown in March with a fifth-round TKO over Magomed Kurbanov in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

In the co-feature, former unified heavyweight world champion Andy Ruiz Jr. (35-2, 22 KOs) returns from an almost two-year layoff to fight Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller (26-1-1, 22 KOs). 

The Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV will also feature:

• American heavyweight sensation Jared Anderson (17-0, 15 KOs) steps up against fellow knockout artist Martin Bakole (20-1, 15 KOs).
• WBA 140-pound champion Isaac Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KOs) making his first world title defense against Jose Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs).
• Cuban standout David Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs), winner of seven straight by stoppage, going for number eight against former world title challenger Radivoje Kalajdzic (29-2, 21 KOs) for the WBA ‘Regular” Light Heavyweight belt.
• Cuban Olympic gold medalist Andy Cruz (3-0, 1 KO) seeks to continue his rapid ascension up the lightweight rankings against battle-tested Mexican puncher Antonio Moran (30-6-1, 21 KOs) in a 10-rounder.

The undercard will also be available for fans on the ESPN App.

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Crawford vs. Madrimov (All Times ET)

About ESPN | About ESPN+

Israil Madrimov has warned Terrance Crawford that he has bitten off more than he can chew ahead of their hugely-anticipated clash for the WBA and WBO interim Super-Welterweight World Titles at the top of this Saturday’s unmissable Riyadh Season Card at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, live worldwide on DAZN PPV.

‘The Dream’ (10-0-1, 7 KOs) makes the first defence of his WBA crown against the toughest opposition possible after winning the belt in spectacular fashion in his last outing on the undercard of Anthony Joshua’s brutal KO win over Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia earlier this year. 

The Uzbek star took on Magomed Kurbanov for the vacant title and stopped the Russian in five rounds with a dominant performance to continue his impressive unbeaten run in the paid ranks, following a glittering amateur career.

Pound-for-pound star Crawford is attempting to create even more history as he bids to win a World Title in a fourth weight category after cleaning up at Lightweight, Super-Lightweight and Welterweight, but Madrimov is convinced that he is the man to shock the world and inflict a first career defeat on ‘Bud’.

“My dream has always been to fight the best boxers and the pound-for-pound boxers,” said Madrimov. “When I received the news that I would be making my first World Title defence against Terence Crawford I was very happy; let’s go! I am ready all of the time.

“I have always been a fan of Terence Crawford. I like his style. He has great movement. It’s a good style. It is true that he is one of my favourite boxers. There is always a first guy, and I want to be the first guy to beat him and to break all of the records.

“He doesn’t have any weaknesses. I haven’t seen any of those, but I will try to discover some. I am very excited to get this opportunity to make a statement, and I will Inshallah. I’m not Errol Spence Jr. I am Israil Madrimov. This is my division. 

“He’s moving up in weight. I’m the World Champion here, and I don’t think about him. I think about myself and I think about accomplishing my goals and winning this fight. It’s a huge honour and opportunity for me to show my skills and I want to win this fight in style. And still!”

Crawford vs. Madrimov tops a blockbuster Los Angeles Riyadh Season Card this weekend, Mexico’s Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KOs) defends his WBA Super-Lightweight World Title against Jose Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs), former Unified Heavyweight World Champion Andy Ruiz Jr. (35-2, 22 KOs) returns against New York’s Jarrell ‘Big Baby’ Miller (26-1-1, 22 KOs), undefeated Heavyweight contender Jared Anderson (17-0, 15 KOs) collides with Martin Bakole (20-1, 15 KOs) in a an explosive match-up for the NABF and WBO International Titles, Cuba’s David Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs) defends his WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title against Radivoje ‘Hot Rod’ Kalajdzic (29-2, 21 KOs), Olympic Lightweight Champion Andy Cruz (3-0, 1 KO) continues his 135lbs campaign when he takes on Mexico’s Antonio Moran (30-6-1, 21 KOs) with the IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American Titles on the line, unbeaten Super-Middleweights Steve Nelson (19-0, 15 KOs) and Marcos Ramon Vazquez (20-0-1, 10 KOs) meet over ten rounds and Saudi Arabian Welterweight talent Ziyad Almaayouf (5-0, 1 KO) fights in the US for the first time against Poland’s Michal Bulik (6-7, 2 KOs). 

Terence Crawford is out to remind fans why he is considered to be the number one pound-for-pound fighter on the planet when he takes on Israil Madrimov for the WBA and WBO interim Super-Welterweight World Titles at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles this Saturday August 3, live worldwide on DAZN PPV.

Crawford (40-0, 31 KOs) is gunning to become a four-weight World champion as he moves up to 154lbs after conquering the Welterweight division with a stunning KO win over Errol Spence to be crowned the undisputed champion at 147lbs in Las Vegas in July last year.

The Omaha star, who headlines the first ever Riyadh Season card on U.S. soil this weekend, has already ruled the roost at Super-Lightweight and Lightweight, and now ‘Bud’ is arrowing in on cementing greatness by relieving Madrimov of his WBA 154lbs crown. 

“Realistically the next step was to do a rematch with Spence,” Crawford told Matchroom. “For whatever reason it didn’t happen, so I had to move on with my career. The ultimate goal was to try to get the Canelo fight. That didn’t happen, so we went to the next best thing.

“154 was wide open. I was looking to fight Charlo, he left, so I‘ve got a fight with whoever I could get for a World Title. Israil Madrimov is a tremendous fighter. He’s 10-0, already a World Champion. He’s a tough dangerous fighter. I think it’s going to be an exciting fight.

“I think he’s very strong. I think he’s ‘herky-jerky’. I think he’s illusive, he can box, he can brawl, he can move, he can take a punch and that make for a great fight. I know he’s going to train hard. I know his coaches will train him to be the best that he can be and come fight night he’s going to try to do any and everything to dethrone me from my top spot, even though he’s the champion.

“He wants what I’ve got and that’s the recognition, the accolades, the pound for pound spot. He wants to be on top of the world like myself. He’s going to be filled with so much energy to prove to the world that he belongs in the ring with the top fighters. I consider Israil the best 154lbs fighter in the division right now. So why not go for the top guy in the division, right off the bat?

“As for myself, I’ve been here before. This is nothing new. I know how to handle things like this. I know how to go about fighting these type of guys that have a lot to prove. Come fight night I will show the world once and for all, once again, why I’m the best fighter on the planet.”

Crawford says he has been hugely impressed by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh’s vision for boxing and the switch-hitting dynamo is proud to partner with Riyadh Season for their debut venture in the U.S.

“I’m very excited to be headlining His Excellency Turki Alalshikh’s first card in the USA,” said Crawford. “I’m very excited for the first big event coming to America. Being the headliner of the event is a big honour. It’s going to be a tremendous event. There’s a stacked undercard and I’m just happy to be a part of it.

“In today’s age, it’s one of the best undercards that has been put together since back in the day. Pretty much six fights on the undercard could be main events. With that being said, all of them put on one card is a blessing. I’ve been talking to His Excellency for years now. This is the right time for us to partner up and do a big event. I’m quite positive that this is going to be a huge event.”

Crawford vs. Madrimov tops a blockbuster Los Angeles Riyadh Season Card this weekend, Mexico’s Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KOs) defends his WBA Super-Lightweight World Title against Jose Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs), former Unified Heavyweight World Champion Andy Ruiz Jr. (35-2, 22 KOs) returns against New York’s Jarrell ‘Big Baby’ Miller (26-1-1, 22 KOs), undefeated Heavyweight contender Jared Anderson (17-0, 15 KOs) collides with Martin Bakole (20-1, 15 KOs) in a an explosive match-up for the NABF and WBO International Titles, Cuba’s David Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs) defends his WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title against Radivoje ‘Hot Rod’ Kalajdzic (29-2, 21 KOs), Olympic Lightweight Champion Andy Cruz (3-0, 1 KO) continues his 135lbs campaign when he takes on Mexico’s Antonio Moran (30-6-1, 21 KOs) with the IBF International and WBA Continental Latin-American Titles on the line, unbeaten Super-Middleweights Steve Nelson (19-0, 15 KOs) and Marcos Ramon Vazquez (20-0-1, 10 KOs) meet over ten rounds and Saudi Arabian Welterweight talent Ziyad Almaayouf (5-0, 1 KO) fights in the US for the first time against Poland’s Michal Bulik (6-7, 2 KOs). 

LOS ANGELES (July 23, 2024) — PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, returns to the ring when it live streams to boxing fans, in the U.S. and Canada, the summer’s most exciting and historic boxing card on U.S. soil, in a battle between undefeated champions.  Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford (40-0, 31 KOs), a three-division world champion from Omaha, Nebraska, will move up in weight to challenge WBA super welterweight world champion Israil ‘The Dream’ Madrimov (10-0-1, 7 KOs), a native of Khiva, Uzbekistan, who fights out of Indio, California.  In addition to Madrimov’s title, the WBO interim junior middleweight world title will also be on the line.  

Crawford extended his eight-year victory by knockout streak to 11 by stopping then-undefeated unified welterweight champion Errol Spence last year to become boxing’s first undisputed world champion in two different weight divisions in the four-belt era.  He will be looking to solidify his claim as the No. 1 pound for pound fighter.  Madrimov will be making the first defense of the world title he won on March 8, when he knocked out undefeated Magomed Kurbanov in the fifth round.  The stacked pay-per-view event, which marks the first time Riyadh Season will host a card outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, will take place Saturday, August 3, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, emanating from BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. Priced at $79.99, the Crawford vs. Madrimov world championship event can be ordered by clicking here: PPV.COM – Crawford vs. Madrimov.

“Israil Madrimov is a typically tough, well-schooled Eastern European boxer.  But Terence Crawford is in another league.  The skill and dynamism he showed in upending Errol Spence offered a strong argument for pound-for-pound number one status, and Crawford is an intensely proud professional who never lets his guard down.  There’s no reason to suspect he will fail to master Madrimov, either by TKO or by lopsided decision,” said Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley, who returns to the ring wars to co-host the exclusive viewer chat, in real time, during the PPV.COM Crawford vs. Madrimov world championship event live stream. 

Joining Lampley on the viewer chat will be award-winning boxing journalist Lance Pugmire and popular podcast host Dan Canobbio.  Jim, Lance, and Dan will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports for PPV.COM‘s website and social platforms.

The Crawford vs. Madrimov pay-per-view live stream will also feature WBA super lightweight champion Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KOs), from Mexico City, in his first title defense, against WBA No. 5 world-rated contender Jose Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs), from Los Mochis, Mexico;  Cuban standout David Morrell, Jr. (10-0, 9 KOs), fighting out of Minneapolis, Minnesota, will be battling Serbian native Radivoje Kalajdzic (29-2, 21 KOs), fighting out of St. Petersburg, Florida, for the vacant WBA light heavyweight world title; former unified heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. (35-2, 22 KOs), from Imperial, California, against Jarrell ‘Big Baby’ Miller (26-1-1, 22 KOs), from Brooklyn, New York; heavyweights Jared ‘The Real Big Baby’ Anderson (17-0, 15 KOs), from Houston, Texas, against Martin Bakole (20-1, 15 KOs), a native of the Democratic Republic of The Congo, now fighting out of Airdrie, Scotland; and Cuban Olympic lightweight gold medalist Andy Cruz (3-0, 1 KO), from Miami, Florida, against Antonio Moran (30-6-1, 21 KOs), from Mexico City, in a 10-round lightweight rumble.  

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

LANCE PUGMIRE

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

DAN CANOBBIO

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

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

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

LOS ANGELES (July 8, 2024) —Three-weight world champion and two-division undisputed king Terence “Bud” Crawford looks to conquer a fourth weight class when he takes on WBA junior middleweight world champion Israil Madrimov on Saturday, Aug. 3, at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.

Crawford-Madrimov tops a star-studded bill that includes Top Rank-promoted heavyweight sensation Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson, who steps up against fellow knockout artist Martin Bakole.

Crawford-Madrimov, Anderson-Bakole, and additional undercard fights will stream LIVE on Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV.
 
Crawford (40-0, 31 KOs) moves up to 154 pounds following last July’s career-defining TKO over Errol Spence Jr. to win the undisputed welterweight championship. The Omaha, Nebraska, native and pound-for-pound superstar has won 11 straight fights by stoppage. Madrimov (10-0-1, 7 KOs), a native of Uzbekistan, captured the WBA 154-pound crown in March with a fifth-round TKO over Magomed Kurbanov in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 

Anderson (17-0, 15 KOs), from Toledo, Ohio, is the sport’s preeminent heavyweight up-and-comer. He bested former world champion Charles Martin by decision last July, stopped Andriy Rudenko in five rounds the following month, and returned in April with a one-sided unanimous decision over Ryad Merhy. Bakole (20-1, 15 KOs) has won nine straight fights and made a splash on the Tyson Fury-Francis Ngannou bill last October, weighing in at a massive 299.5 pounds and dispatching former title challenger Carlos Takam in four rounds.

The Top Rank on ESPN+ PPV will also feature:

• WBA 140-pound champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (26-2-1, 18 KOs) making his first world title defense against Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela (13-2, 9 KOs).
   
• Former unified heavyweight world champion Andy Ruiz Jr. (35-2, 22 KOs) returning from an almost two-year layoff to fight Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller (26-1-1, 22 KOs).
   
• Cuban standout David Morrell (10-0, 9 KOs), winner of seven straight by stoppage, going for number eight in a 12-rounder at light heavyweight against former world title challenger Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic (29-2, 21 KOs).
   
• Cuban Olympic gold medalist Andy Cruz (3-0, 1 KO) seeks to continue his rapid ascension up the lightweight rankings against battle-tested Mexican puncher Antonio Moran (30-6-1, 21 KOs) in a 10-rounder.

Former unified Heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua scored a brutal second round stoppage over former UFC champion Francis Ngannou in a scheduled 10-round bout in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

In round one, Joshua landed a perfect right to the jaw that put Ngannou on the deck. In round two, Joshua landed a perfect counter right that put Ngannou in the canvas aagain. Ngannou was clearly clearly hurt with a bloody lip and then ate a humongous right hand that bent him over his right leg and out cold at 2:31.

Joshua, 252.4 lbs of London is 28-3 with 25 knockouts. Ngannou, 272.6 lbs of Cameroon is 0-2.

Parker Decisions Zhang; Captures WBO Interim Heavyweight Title

Joseph Parker survived two knockdowns and won the WBO Interim Heavyweight totle with a 12-round majority decision ovr Zhilei Zhang.

In round three, Zhang landed a little left hand that put Parker on the seat of his pants.

In round eight, Zhang landed a little right hook on the inside that put Parker down for a second time.

Zhang did not capitalize on the knockdowns and Parker did a little more to win by scores of 115-111, 114-112 and 113-113.

Parker, 247.6 lbs of South Auckland, NZ is 35-3. Zhang, 291.6 lbs of China is 26-2-1.

Vargas and Ball Battle to Draw in Featherweight Title Bout

Rey Vargas built up a nice lead, and he needed it as Nick Ball scored two knockdowns in the second half of their fight and battle to a split draw. Vargas keeps his WBC Featherweight title.

Vargas dominated the first half of the fight as he landed hard body shots. The fight started turning in the second half of fight.

In round seven, Ball rocked and buckled Vargas on two occasions. In round eight, Ball was able to register a knockdown when he was off balance and Ball landed a left hook. Ball continued to sure forward in the ensuing rounds. In round 11, Vargas was dropped again as Ball landed a hard right on the chin.

Vargas landed 118 of 536 punches. Ball was 111 of 472.

Scores were 114-112 for Vargas, 116-112 for Ball and 113-113.

Vragas, 125 lbs of Mexico is 36-1-1. Ball, 125 lbs of Liverpool is 19-0-1.

Madrimov Stops Kurbanov in 5 to win Super Welterweight Title

Israil Madrimov won the WBA Super Welterweight title with a fifth round stoppage over Magomed Kurbanov.

Madrimov dominated the action by landing some hard right hands over the first four frames. Kurbanov showed some life but that was short lived as in round five, Madrimov landed a hard right that rocked Kurbanov to the ropes. Madrimov followed up and landed two more hard overhand rights that forced a stoppage at 2:20

Madrimov, 153.6 lbs of Uzbekistan is 10-0-1 with seven knockouts. Kurbanov, 153.6 lbs of Ekatinberg, RUS is 25-1.

Mark Chamberlain stops Gavin Gwynne in 4

Mark Chamberlain stopped Gavin Gwynne in round four of their 10-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Gwynne started to swell around his right eye. In round three, Gwynne’s eye was shutting rapidly. Chamberlain continued to pour on the offense and in round four, landed a hard right hook that drove Gwynne to the ropes. Chamberlain followed up with a flurry and the fight was stopped at 2:46.

Chamberlain, 134.6 lbs of Portsmouth, ENG is 15-0 with 11 knockouts. Gwynne, 134 lbs or Treharris, WAL is 17-3-1.

Huni Hangs on and Decisions Lerena

Justis Huni was hurt bad in the 10th and final round but was able to hang on and defeat Kevin Lerena via 10-round unanimous decision in a heavyweight bout.

The bout was close throughout. In round 10, Lerena landed a huge left that rocked Huni across the ring on bad legs. Lerena followed up but was not able to put him down.

Huni, 243.2 lbs of Brisbane, AUS won by scores of 98-92 and 96-94 twice and is now 9-0. Lerena, 232.4 lbs of Johannesburg, SA is 30-3.

Louis Greene scored an emphatic first-round stoppage over Jack McGann in a 10-round super welterweight bout.

Greene landed a booming right hand that put McGann hard on his back. McGann got to his feet, but the fight was waved off at 1:29.

Greene, 153.2 lbs of Kent, ENG is 17-4 with 11 knockouts. McGann, 153.4 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 9-1-1.

In a battle of undefeated heavyweights, Roman Fury won a four-round decision over Martin Svarc.

Fury, 224 lbs of Manchester, ENG won by a 39-37 score and is 4-0. Svarc, 225 lbs of CZE is 2-1.

Fury is the brother of WBC Heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, who was ringside.

Ziyad Almaayouf remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Christian Lopes Flores in a super lightweight contest.

Almaayouf, 144.4 lbs of Riyadh, SA won by a 60-54 score and is now 6-0. Flores, 142 lbs is 14-36-2.

Andrii Novytskiy scored a third-round stoppage over Juan Torres in a eight-round heavyweight bout.

Novytskiy, 239.4 lbs is now 10-0 with nine knockouts. Torres, 255.6 is 11-6-1.

Israil Madrimov and Magomed Kurbanov will contest the World Boxing Association (WBA) super welterweight world title on Friday at the Kingdom Arena in Ryad, Saudi Arabia. 

Madrimov is ranked No. 1 at 154 pounds, while Kurbanov is No. 2 and they will fight for the vacant belt once Jermell Charlo was placed as champion in recess by the championships committee. 

Uzbek Madrimov comes from defeating Raphael Igbokwe in his most recent fight held last April 8, 2023. Now he will have the big opportunity he has been waiting for to win the belt this Friday. 

Kurbanov has proven himself against good opponents such as Johan Gonzalez or Michel Soro and has shown his power. Now he will have a bigger challenge and believes he has the formula to face it in the best way and come out with the belt in his hands 

Madrimov has a record of 9 wins, 1 draw and 6 knockouts, while Kurbanov has 25 wins, no losses and 13 knockouts.

Jesse Rodriguez became a two-division world champion with a 12-round unanimous decision over Cristian Gonzalez to capture WBO Flyweight title in San Antonio, Texas.

Rodriguez, 111.4 lbs of San Antonio, Texas won by scores of 118-110, 117-111 and 116-112 and is now 18-0. Gonzalez, 112 lbs of Tultitlan, MEX is 15-2.

Marlon Tapales wrestled the IBF/WBA Super Bantamweight titles with a 12-round split decision over now-dethroned champion Murodjon Akhmadaliev,

Tapales, 121.8 lbs of Lanao del Norte, PHL won two cards 115-113 and Akhmadaliev took a card by a too-wide 118-110.

Tapales is 37-3. Akhmadaliev, 121.6 lbs of Chust, UZB is 11-1.

Raymond Ford scored a 12-round unanimous decision over former world champion Jessie Magdaleno in a featherweight bout.

In round four, Ford dropped Magdaleno with a hook behind the head.

In round 11, Ford dropped Magdaleno with a right hook to the body that was followed up by a straight left to the head.

Ford, 126 lbs of Camden, NJ is 14-0-1. Magdaleno, 126 lbs of Las Vegas is 29-2.

Thomas Mattice scored a come from behind 10th round stoppage over Ramiro Cesena in the final round of their super featherweight bout.

In round eight, Mattice was deducted a point after his mouthpiece came out.

Mattice landed a right that drove Cesena back. Mattice landed a hard flurry for which most of the punches seemed to hit the gloves of Cesena and the fight was stopped at 1:35.

Mattice, 129 lbs of Cleveland, OH is 21-3-1 with 16 knockouts. Cesena, 130 lbs of Baja California, MEX is 16-1-1.

Israil Madrimov won a 10-round unanimous decision over Raphael Igbokwe in a super welterweight contest.

Madrimov, 158.8 lbs of Chiva, UZB won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice and is now 9-0-1. Igbokwe, 160 lbs of Houston, TX is 16-4.

Marc Castro remained undefeated by stopping Ricardo Lopez in a eight-round lightweight fight.

In round seven, Castro hurt Lopez with a hard right that drove Lopez to the ropes that started big flurry, and the fight was stopped at

Castro, 133 lbs of Fresno, CA is 10-0 with seven knockouts. Lopez, 133.6 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 16-7-3.

Khalil Coe remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over James Quiter in scheduled six-round light heavyweight fight.

In round one, Coe dropped Quiter with a hard left hand. In round three, Coe dropped Quiter with a right hand. Seconds later, Coe finished the fight by landing a bug right uppercut that put Quiter down again, and the fight was stopped at 1:51.

Coe, 175.8 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is 5-0-1 with three knockouts. Quiter, 174.8 lbs of Oak Park, IL is 6-2-1.

Jesus Martinez and Jose Lopez battled to a four-round draw in a bantamweight contest.

Each fighter won a scorecard 39-37 and a third card was 38-38.

Martinez, 119.4 lbs of DelRio, TX is 3-0-1. Lopez, 118.4 lbs of Rodgewood, NY 4-2-2.

Derek Chisora evened up his series with Kubrat Pulev by winning a split decision in a 12-round heavyweight bout at The O2 Arena in London.

In round five, Pulev was cut on his left eyelid. It was a sloppy yet entertaining affair that saw each guy land some big shots throughout the contest.

Chisora landed 171 of 526 punches; Pulev was 200 of 796.

Each fighter won a scorecard by a 116-112 tally. A third card was 116-114 for Chisora.

Madrimov and Soro Fight to a Technical Draw

Israil Madrimov and Michel Soro fought to a technical draw when Soro suffered a bad cut in the third round of their 12-round junior middleweight rematch.

At the start of round three, The two clashed heads, and Soro began to bleed badly over his left eye. The fight was the sequel to a December rematch that saw Madrimov score a ninth round stoppage, but the stoppage may have come after the ninth round bell had sounded.

Ali Decisions Rojas

Ramla Ali remained undefeated with an eight-round decision over Agustina Rojas in a super bantamweight fight.

Ali, 122.14 kbs of Greewich, ENG won by an 80-72 score and is now 6-0. Rojas, 122.3 lbs of Villeurbanne, ARG is 6-2.

Agyarko Decisions Maciej

Caoimhin Agyarko won a 10-round unanimous decision over Lukasz Maciej in a super middleweight bout.

Agyarko, 153.12 lbs of Belfast, NI won by scores of 100-90 twice and 99-93 and is now 12-0. Maciej, 154 lbs of Lublin. POL is 28-5-1.

Wardley Stops Healey in 2

Fabio Wardley remained undefeated by stopping Chris Healey in round two of their eight-round heavyweight bout.

In round one, Wardley opened up with a hard combination that put Healey down to the canvas. It was the same thing in round two as Warley landed a hard combination that punctuated by a right hand that put Healey down and the towel was thrown in at 40 seconds.

Wardley, 238 lbs of Ipswich, ENG is now 14-0 with 13 knockouts. Healey, 275 lbs of Stickport, ENG is 9-10.

Solomon Dacres won an eight-round decision over Kevin Nicolas Espindola in a heavyweight bout.

Dacres, 230.1 lbs of Birmingham, ENG won by an 80-72 score and is now 4-0. Espindola, 257 lbs of San Pedro, ARG is 7-5.

Yousuf Ibrahim won a decision over Francisco Rodriguez in a super bantamweight bout.

Ibrahim, 120.1 lbs of Northhampton, ENG won by a 40-36 score and is now 2-0. Rodriguez, 121.1 lbs of Alfacar, SPA is 1-7.

Israil Madrimov can take a step closer to achieving his World Title dream when he faces Michel Soro in a Final Eliminator for the WBA Super-Welterweight crown on another huge night for Uzbekistan boxing at the Renaissance Hall in Tashkent on Friday December 17, with all of the action shown live worldwide on DAZN. 

Madrimov (7-0, 5 KOs), the No.2 ranked Super-Welterweight with the WBA, outpointed the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Emmany Kalombo, who had won all fourteen of his professional contests inside the distance before facing ‘The Dream’, last time out at the Humo Arena in Tashkent on the undercard of Murodjon Akhmadaliev’s win over Ryosuke Iwasa.

France’s Soro (35-2-1, 24 KOs) is ranked No.1 in the world at 154lbs with the WBA and secured mandatory status in 2018 with a two-round wipe-out of the USA’s Greg Vendetti. The reigning WBA Gold World Super-Welterweight Champion scored a pair of knockouts over his compatriots Anderson Prestot and Cedric Vitu in 2019 but hasn’t fought since. 

Uzbekistan’s undefeated Super-Lightweight star Shakhram Giyasov (11-0, 9 KOs) returns to action against Argentina’s Cristian Rafael Coria (29-8-2, 13 KOs) after successfully defending his WBA International Title with a third-round stoppage win over Patricio Lopez Moreno in April. 

2016 Olympic Champion Hasanboy Dusmatov (3-0, 3 KOs) fights for the second time in 2021 against Mexico’s Jose Rivas (18-12-4, 10 KOs) following his impressive two-round demolition job on Muhsin Kizota to capture the WBA International Light-Flyweight Title in just his third outing in the professional ranks. 

Tashkent’s own Dilshodbek Ruzmetov makes his professional debut at Light-Heavyweight, undefeated Lightweight Elnur Abduraimov (7-0, 6 KOs) continues his journey in the pros and Super-Welterweight prospect Ikboljon Kholdarov (1-0) looks to build on his pro debut win back in April and Super-Middleweight Bektemir Melikuziev (7-1, 6 KOs) looks to bounce back from his first career loss to Gabriel Rosado in June. 

“We’re bringing DAZN back to Uzbekistan,” said Madrimov. “I’m happy to fight in Uzbekistan in front of my people. Fighting Soro is a big and very important step towards my goal. I rate him as the best Super-Welterweight who doesn’t hold the belt. It will be exciting fight for the fans worldwide.”

“I am looking forward to December 17, when I will take my final step before challenging for the World Title,” said Soro. “My opponent Israil Madrimov deserves respect as he has the courage to face me with only 7 professional fights behind him. But I am ready to beat anyone, anywhere.  I will prove it on December 17, and I will prove it again when I become World Champion.”

“We are delighted to be returning to Uzbekistan for another huge night of boxing following our World Championship card at the Humo Theatre back in April headlined by Murodjon Akhmadaliev,” said Frank Smith, Matchroom Boxing CEO. “This time it’s ‘The Dream’ Israil Madrimov who brings big time boxing back to his homeland as he faces Michel Soro in a Final Eliminator for the WBA Super-Welterweight World Title. 

“Madrimov vs. Soro is part of a stacked December for us on DAZN that gets underway in Bilbao this Friday as Kerman Lejarraga defends his European Super-Welterweight crown against Jack Flatley. Then it’s over to Las Vegas the following evening for Devin Haney’s defence of his WBC Lightweight World Title against Joseph ‘Jo Jo’ Diaz Jr. We end the year with a bang in the UK as Conor Benn and Katie Taylor headline in Liverpool on Saturday December 11 and the following week it’s the massive rematch between Joseph Parker and Derek Chisora.”

“We and our partners are always looking to bring top tier boxing action to nations across the world, and we are excited to be in Uzbekistan once again on December 17,” said said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. ” Madrimov vs. Soro will be a cracking fight and will kick off a stacked weekend of boxing which includes Parker vs. Chisora and Ramirez vs. Gonzalez, live worldwide on DAZN.”

Ticket details will follow in due course. 

Muroodjon Akhmadliev retained the IBF/WBA Super Bantamiweight titles with a fifth round stoppage over Ryosuke Iwasa at the Humo Arena in Tashkent, Uznbekistan.

In round five, Akamadaliv landed a hard combination that sent Iwasa into the ropes, and the fight was stopped (maybe Prematurely) at 1:30.

Akhmadlaiv, 121 .2 lbs of Chust, UZB is 9-0 with seven knockouts. Iwasa, 121.6 lbs of Kashiwa, JAP is 27-4.

Shakhram Giyasov stopped Patricio Lopez in round three of a scheduled 10-round super lightweight fight.i

In round two, Giyasov landed a right hand that put Moreno on the deck. In round three, Giyasov landed a right to the head that sent Moreno down face-first and the fight was over at 2:21.

Giyasov, 139.5 lbs of Bukhara, UZB is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Moreno, 139.3 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is 28-5.

Madrimov decisions Kalombo

In a fight featuring undefeated super welterweights, Israil Madrimov won a 10-round unanimous decision over Emmany Kalombo.

In round eight, Madrimov landed a left in the middle of an exchange that sent Kalombo stumbling into the ropes for a knockdown.

Madimov, 154.2 lbs of Khiva, UZB won by scores of 100-89, 99-90 and 98-92 to raise his unblemished mark to 7-0. Kalombo, 153.6 lbs of The Congo is 14-1.

Jalolov stops Zutis in 2

Bakhodir Jololov stopped Kristaps Zutis in round two of a scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Jalolov dropped Zutis with a left. Seconds later, it was a right hook that put Zutis down with a right hook in the corner and the fight was stopped at 1:16.

Jalolov, 250 lbs Sariosiyo, UZB is 8-0 with eight knockouts. Zutis, 255 lbs of Sabile, LAT is 7-2-2.

Dusmatov stops Kizota in 2

2016 Olympic Gold Medal winner Harsanboy Dusmatov stopped Muhsin Kizota in round two of their scheduled 10-round light-flyweight bout.

In round one, Dusmative dropped Kizota with a left over the top. In that same right, Dusmatov was cut around the right eye. In round two, Dusmatov landed another perfect left that put Kizota down for a second time. Moments later, it was a short left on the inside the put Kizota down again. Kizota was able to go on, but only a couple of seconds later, one more flush left forced the referee to stop the fight at 2:02,

Dusmatov, 108 lbs of Uzbekistan is 3-0 with three knockouts. Kizota, 108 lbs of Tanzania is 11-3.

Mirazizbek Mirzakhlilov made a successful pro debut with a first-round stoppage over Tasha Mjuaji schedueld six-round super bantamweight bout

In round one, Mirzakhalilov dropped Mjuaji with a right hand. Seconds later it was another right t hat sent Mjuaji down for the 10-count at 2:24.

Mirzakhlilov, 121.9 lbs of Tanzania is 1-0 with one knockout. Mjuaji of Tanzania is 17-8-2.

Indio, CA (March 3, 2021) Top Junior Middleweight Prospect Israil ‘The Dream’ Madrimov, (6-0, 5 KOs), of Khiva, Uzbekistan is recovering from surgery on his left shoulder to repair a tendon tear. The injury occurred early in his victory over Eric Walker on August 15, 2020 in Tulsa, OK.

Said Madrimov, “The rehabilitation from the surgery a couple of months ago is coming along very well. I look forward to starting my training again very soon and hope to be back in the ring in April or May.”

Acclaimed as one of boxing’s most exciting young fighters and projected as a future world champion, the 26-year-old former amateur standout proved his mettle in the Walker clash. Despite suffering the injury early in the bout, Madrimov seemingly scored a spectacular knockout in the ninth round, however referee Gary Ritter ruled that Walker was falsely pushed to the canvas. Forced to go the distance for the first time, Madrimov was declared the winner by scores of 116-111 and 116-110 twice.

Israil Madrimov/Eric Walker Highlights/DAZN

“Walker was badly hurt and the fight was over in the ninth round, the referee just mistakenly thought it was a push,” said the Joel Diaz trained Madrimov. “After the knockdown, Walker just went into survival mode to finish the fight.”

“But I’ll be back soon and continue to put on great fights for the fans as I continue towards my dream of becoming a world champion.”

Said Vadim Kornilov of Brigade Sports Management, “Israil didn’t want to make any excuses after the fight but it was clear when we talked afterwards that the injury affected his performance. Walker was a very tough opponent who had been avoided by many of the other world ranked junior middleweights.  Sometimes boxing politics will make for certain circumstances that will push us into making mistakes.  We learned from this one, and in the future, we will make sure that we do not take fights on 5-6 week’s notice against guys that have been training and anxiously waiting for their opportunity.”

“Now, three months after the surgery Israil is feeling much better and our goal stays the same for him, the biggest fights and the biggest opportunities. He has made a huge impact and garnered a wealth of international fans with his exciting fights since turning professional and we can’t wait for him to be in the ring again soon.” An announcement on Madrimov’s return to action will be forthcoming shortly.

Israil Madrimov is looking to steal the show again to convince promoter Eddie Hearn to put on a huge show in Uzbekistan as he faces Eric Walker in a final eliminator for the WBA World Super-Welterweight title in the streets of downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma on Saturday night (August 15) live on DAZN.
 
Madrimov (5-0 5 KOs) has made an electric start to life in the paid ranks, leaving his decorated amateur career behind and winning a title in his first pro outing in November 2018 to signal his intentions.
 
No opponent has taken the Uzbek star into the seventh round after five fights, and while Walker (20-2 9 KOs) has arrived in Tulsa confident of stopping Madrimov’s march and adding to his own incredible story, ‘The Dream’ can take a giant step towards his goal of becoming a World ruler with victory.
 
Boxing is the number one sport in Madrimov’s homeland and they recently celebrated their first World champion when Murodjon ‘MJ’ Akhmadaliev became the unified Super-Bantamweight ruler in January with victory over Daniel Roman in just his eighth pro outing.
 
Madrimov still has ambitions to beat his ‘brother’s’ record and aim to unify at 154lbs before eight fights, targeting a future clash with the winner of the September unification battle between IBF and WBA Super champion Jeison Rosario and WBC king Jermell Charlo, but winning a World title is the key, and if that can happen in Uzbekistan, the 25 year old believes it would be a historic night for his country.
 
“There have been talks over doing an event in Uzbekistan with Eddie Hearn, and it’s easier to do now with MJ as a World champion, it would be a huge event,” said Madrimov. “Our people are crazy boxing fans and would fill up any venue in the country, we have support from the government, so I am sure that it would be a sold-out stadium success and people would remember it for years.
 
“MJ made history and we’re happy for him as our friend, brother and teammate, it’s unbelievable what he achieved, unified champion in eight fights – but I still have time to beat him!
 
“Right now, the focus is Eric on Saturday, not looking past that. As soon as business is taken care of, we move on and we want to fight the champion, whoever that is. Rosario and Charlo are fighting each other, whoever has the belts I’m ready to fight them.
 
“Every fight for me is very important. I started off with a title fight on debut and my last fight was an eliminator, so they are all important and they keep getting bigger. This is a final eliminator and that’s big for me because win this and the next fight should be for a World title, the champion cannot avoid me then. I don’t call people out, I just want to be in a position to fight for titles. I want to build my own legacy and history by becoming World champion and I want to break records.”
 
Madrimov’s clash with Walker is part of a massive night of action as Cecilia Brækhus (36-0 9 KOs) goes for history in the 26^th defense of her undisputed Welterweight crown against unified Super-Lightweight champion Jessica McCaskill (8-2 3 KOs) in the unique setting of the downtown Tulsa streets as Matchroom return Stateside.
 
Madrimov’s fellow countryman Shakhram Giyasov (9-0 7 KOs) will now face Wiston Campos (31-7-6 19 KOs) after second replacement opponent Rey Perez was ruled out following original opponent Francisco Rojo being forced out of the bout after testing positive for COVID-19 during his training camp in his home city, and a trio of young talents complete the card in Nikita Ababiy (8-0 6 KOs), Raymond Ford (5-0 2 KOs) and the debut of amateur star Marc Castro.

Israil Madrimov will face Eric Walker on the streets of downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma on August 15, live on DAZN.
 
Madrimov (5-0 5 KOs) has been knocking on the door for World title honors in the Super-Welterweight division and can send a fresh warning to the champions at 154lbs in just his sixth pro outing following a blistering introduction to the paid ranks.
 
The 25 year old looks set to replicate his habitual title winning exploits in the amateur code in the pro game, and ‘The Dream’ is confident of making it six KO wins from six when he goes toe-to-toe with Walker in Tulsa.
 
“I’m very excited to fight on August 15 against such a formidable opponent in Eric Walker,” said Madrimov. “Many thanks to all of my fans worldwide for their support, I can’t wait to put on another great show for you.”
 
“We were initially planning to bring Israil back around September, but this opportunity came up and we all decided that this is a great step for his career,” said Vadim Kornilov, Madrimov’s manager. “We’re looking forward to a bigger test here with Walker then with previous opponents.”
 
“This will be another great performance by Israil,” said Andrei Ryabinskiy, World of Boxing Promotions. “His popularity is growing, and we are very happy working with Matchroom Boxing and DAZN, keeping him busy and moving another step forward on August 15.”
 
For Walker (20-2 9 KOs) the opportunity to derail Madrimov’s rise and catapult himself into the upper echelons of the 154lbs division gives the 37 year old the chance to write yet another chapter of a remarkable life in and out of the ring. 
 
The Louisianan has forged a career in boxing from unlikely beginnings, learning to box in prison as a teenager and then making a bright start to his pro career and won 15 of his first 16 fights before entering ‘The Contender’ in the fall of 2018, where he fell to Brandon Adams in the semi-finals.
 
Walker enters the bout on the back of two wins in the final third of 2019 and the ‘Baby Faced Assasin’ heads to Oklahoma full of confidence that he is the man to end Madrimov’s run.
 
“Madrimov had a great amateur career but, as a pro, he makes a lot of mistakes and I’ll be the guy to give him his first loss,” said Walker. “Despite the restrictions from the pandemic, I’ve been training and staying in shape. I’ve been in the gym since May and I just got back from sparring with Shawn Porter. I’ve been waiting for an opportunity like this, my mind is focused, and I’m ready to take care of business on August 15.” 
 
“Eric Walker is a legitimate 154-pound contender and will be the best fighter that Israil Madrimov has ever faced. Since turning his life around, Eric has reestablished his career and was a star on the last season of ‘The Contender’. I expect a terrific, competitive fight on August 15 and look forward to watching it on DAZN,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. 
 
Madrimov vs. Walker has been added to the August 15 bill after WBC World Flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez was forced to withdraw from his defense against McWilliams Arroyo through a non-COVID 19 related illness, with Matchroom aiming to place the bout on a card later in the year. 
 
The main event on August 15 will now be the mouth-watering undisputed Welterweight title clash between unbeaten defending champion Cecilia Brækhus and unified Super-Lightweight ruler Jessica McCaskill.
 
“Madrimov vs. Walker is a great addition to our August 15 show,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Israil is one of the standout talents in world boxing and he’s on the cusp of World title glory after just five fights in the paid ranks – a remarkable achievement. 
 
“But Eric has already shown he has all the ingredients to beat the odds time and time again, and I know that he will lay it all on the line and provide Israil with the sternest of tests.
 
“Brækhus-McCaskill is a fight fit to top any bill and while it’s sad to lose the ferocious Mexican champion Julio Cesar Martinez from the show, Cecilia and Jessica more than deserve their spot as the main event – especially at a period of time when women’s boxing is on fire and in the spotlight, with the winner in Tulsa looking to take on the winner of the crunch rematch between Katie Taylor and Delfine Persoon, taking place a week after we return in America with a huge night of action in a stunning setting on the streets of Tulsa.”
 
Brækhus-McCaskill and Madrimov-Walker are the show toppers of a massive night of action in the unique setting of the downtown Tulsa streets as Matchroom return Stateside.
 
Madrimov’s fellow countryman Shakhram Giyasov (9-0 7 KOs) puts his WBA International Super-Lightweight title against Francisco Rojo (22-3 15 KOs), and a trio of young talents complete the card in Nikita Ababiy (8-0 6 KOs), Raymond Ford (5-0 2 KOs) and the debut of amateur star Marc Castro.

Los Angeles, CA (April 27, 2020) Uzbek star Israil ‘The Dream’ Madrimov, (5-0, 5 KOs), is in his native Uzbekistan staying in shape for when boxing returns and is emphatic about what the next steps in his career should be.

“I’m ready now to fight for a world title fight,” said the 25-year-old Madrimov, currently slotted at #2 in the junior middleweight rankings by the World Boxing Association. “I want to face the WBA champion Jeison Rosario next, he had a great victory over Julian Williams but I’m very confident I can beat him. I will aim for a world title fight when boxing returns and I am more motivated than ever.”

The exciting, young star is coming off a spectacular performance on February 29 knocking out perennial contender Charlie Navarro, (29-10, 22 KOs) in the sixth round in Frisco, TX and broadcast on DAZN. The full fight can be viewed HERE.

“I felt very comfortable in the ring against Navarro, my trainer Joel Diaz is always teaching me new things in the gym and I’m glad that I was able to show some things off in my last fight. I’m looking forward to returning to Indio and getting back into training camp,” continued Madrimov, who displayed his full arsenal against Navarro including effectively switching from orthodox to southpaw.  The victory was captured in a remarkable ‘behind the scenes’ fight week feature by Steve Kim for ESPN which can be viewed here HERE.

Said manager Vadim Kornilov “Israil continues to prove that he is one of the most exciting young stars in international boxing. While many of boxing’s biggest names are over 30 years of age, Israil is only 25 and already has the skills and experience to fight for a world title fight against a champion as talented as Jeison Rosario. Our goal is to give Israil the biggest fights possible.”

Continued Kornilov, “We’re very grateful for the fans and the media in the United States who have praised Israil’s performances and taken such a deep interest in his career. He’s here to stay and will continue to train for the best performances he is capable of. Hopefully, in the near future he joins his stablemate Murodjon ‘MJ’ Akhmadaliev in becoming a world champion.” The also 25-year-old Uzbek won the WBA and IBF Super Bantamweight World Titles with a victory over Daniel Roman on January 30, 2020, broadcast on DAZN in only his eighth professional bout.

“Israil was outstanding in his last performance, we believe that he is ready for a world title fight now and we are working with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing to facilitate that as soon as is possible,“  said Andrei Ryabinsky, head of World of Boxing.

The event in Dallas was promoted by Matchroom Boxing USA who co-promote Madrimov with World of Boxing.

Mikey Garcia returned from his 1st professional loss by winning a 12-round unanimous decision over Jessie Vargas at The Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas.

After winning the first four rounds, Vargas was caught by a big right that wobbled him. Garcia followed up with another booming right that put Vargas down in the corner.

Garcia took over and won the next several rounds and gained control of the fight. Vargas tried to make a last stand and landed a couple decent shots in the closing rounds, but was wobbled again in round’s 10 and 12.

Garcia, 145.8 lbs of Oxnard, CA won by scores of 116-111 twice and 114-113 and is now 40-1. Vargas, 147 lbs of Las Vegas is 29-3-2.

Former Pound for Pound King Roman Gonzalez won the WBA Super Flyweight title with a 9th round stoppage over previously undefeated former champion Kal Yafai.

Gonzalez beat up and wore down Yafai and in round eight dropped Yafai with a combination. Gonzalez ended things with a perfect right to the jaw that plummeted Yafai to the canvas and the fight was stopped at 29 seconds of round nine.

Gonzalez, 114 lbs of Managua, NIC is 49-2 with 41 knockouts. Yafai, 114.8 lbs of Birmingham, UK is 26-1.

Julio Cesar Martinez retained the WBC Flyweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Jay Harris.

It was a close fight that saw both men have their way during the encounter.

In round five, Harris started to bleed around his left eye.

In round ten, Martinez dropped Harris with a hard body shot.

Martinez, 111.4 lbs of Mexico won by scores of 118-109, 116-111 and 115-112 and is now 16-1. Harris, 111.6 lbs of Wales is 17-1.

Former heavyweight titlist, Joseph Parker stopped Shawndell Winters in round five of a scheduled 10-round bout.

In round three, Parker dropped Winters with a hard right. In round four, Parker was cut under the right eye. In round five, Parker landed a ripping three punch combination to the head that sent Winters to the canvas. The fight was stopped at 2:40

Parker, 245.4 lbs of New Zealand is 27-2 with 21 knockouts. Winter, 208 lbs of Illinois is 13-3.

Israil Madrimov stopped Charlie Navarro in round six of a scheduled 10-round junior middleweight elimination bout.

Madrimov dominated the action and dropped Navarro twice in round six. The first was a hard left to the body. Navarro looked done, and he was seconds later as Madrimov landed a hard right to the body that sent Navarro down again and the fight was stopped at 2:24

Madrimov, 153.2 lbs of Uzbekistan is 5-0 with five knockouuts. Navarro, 153.2 lbs of Panama is 29-10.

Good looking super middleweight prospect Diego Pacheco won an easy six-round unanimous decision over Oscar Riojas.

Pacheco was dominant with right hand and staggered Riojas in the final moment of the fight.

Pacheco, 167.4 lbs of Los Angeles won by scores of 60-54 and is now 9-0. Riojas, 167.4 lbs of Mexico is 21-13-1.

Alexis Espino won a six-round unanimous decision over Delvecchio Savage in a super middleweight bout.

Savage began to bleed from the nose in the 5th round.

Espino, 165 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice and is now 6-0. Savage, 163.6 lbs of Tuscaloosa, AL is 3-6-1.

Murat Gassiev will make his long-awaited Heavyweight debut against Jerry Forrest at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas on Saturday February 29, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK – with rising Junior-Middleweight star Israil Madrimov in a World title eliminator and headline star Mikey Garcia showcasing two of his Garcia Promotions talents.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW STARTING AT $25 VIA SEATGEEK

Gassiev (26-1 19 KOs) announced his move to Heavyweight in April after signing a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing USA, Ural Boxing and Warriors Boxing to fight on DAZN, following hot on the heels of his old Cruiserweight foe Oleksandr Usyk, the last man he faced in an undisputed World title clash and the final of the World Boxing Super Series in July 2018.

The Russian banger was set to make his bow in July at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas against Joey Dawejko but a shoulder injury in the build-up forced the 26 year old to delay his entrance into a red-hot division.

Now a fully fit Gassiev does get the chance to debut in the Lone Star state, this time against seasoned Louisianan Forrest (26-3 20 KOs), the active 31 year old who has five wins from six fights in the last 12 months, and ‘The Iron’ is looking to sharpen his tools for an assault on the Heavyweights.

“I’m so happy to finally be able to make my debut at Heavyweight,” said Gassiev. “It has been frustrating not being able to fight but I am ready to go now, and I want to make up for lost time.

“When I box in Frisco it will have been nearly 600 days since I’ve fought and a lot has happened in the Heavyweight division over that time – I know that I can be a World champion at Heavyweight but I need to show to the rest of the division that I am a serious threat, and that starts on February 29.”

Madrimov (4-0 4 KOs) defends his WBA Inter-Continental Junior-Middleweight title in an official eliminator for the #2 position in the WBA against Venezuelan Charlie Navarro (29-9 22 KOs). Madrimov landed the title with a stunning second round KO of Frank Rojas in Verona, NY in March and maintained his 100 per cent KO ratio as a pro with sixth and fifth round wins at Madison Square Garden in the Big Apple in June and October.

The 24 year old Uzbekistani talent will be buoyed by his fellow countryman and stablemate ‘MJ’ Murodjon Akhmadaliev becoming Uzbekistan’s first ever unified champion, and victory over the experienced former World title challenger will edge Madrimov closer to a World title shot in 2020.

“I am so excited to be getting my first fight of 2020 on such a big card in Frisco,” said Madrimov. “I was so happy to watch MJ beat Daniel Roman in Miami last weekend, and that win has spurred me on to join him as a World champion this year.

“Navarro is a proud and experienced fighter and I know he will be a great test for me, but this is a great night for me to showcase my talents and show the rest of the division that I am ready to win World titles.”

It’s a huge weekend for headline star Garcia, who faces Jessie Vargas in a blockbuster Welterweight showdown in the main event. Garcia, who promotes a fight card on Friday night in Irving, Texas, will showcase two of his Garcia Promotions charges on his undercard with 20 year old unbeaten Texan Flyweight Jesse Rodriguez (10-0 6 KOs) clashing with Marco Sustaita (12-2-1 10 KOs) over ten rounds and unbeaten Mexican Middleweight Leo Ruiz Acevedo (6-0 4 KOs) taking on Dennis Knifechief (12-11 7 KOs) over six rounds.

“It’s great to have Jesse and Leo on the Frisco card that I am headlining against Jessie Vargas,” said Mikey Garcia. “Jesse’s fight with Marco is a really tough fight for both guys and it’s a real step up for Jesse, while Leo is on a great KO run and will be a threat in the Middleweight division in 2020 – February 29 is going to be a huge night of boxing and we’re looking to get three big wins.”

Gassiev, Madrimov, Rodriguez and Acevedo complete a stacked bill in Frisco, Texas, topped by Garcia vs. Vargas, with the longest reigning British World champion Kal Yafai (26-015 KOs) puts his WBA World Super-Flyweight title on the line against the former pound-for-pound king and four weight World ruler Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez (48-2 40 KOs) and rising Mexican sensation Julio Cesar Martinez (15-1 12 KOs) makes the first defense of his WBC World Flyweight title against unbeaten European champion Jay Harris (17-0 9 KOs) – with Matchroom Boxing USA talents Diego Pacheco (8-0 7 KOs) and Alexis Espino (5-0 4 KOs) getting their first taste of action in 2020.

ENDS

About The Star in Frisco
The Star is the 91-acre campus of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters and training facility in Frisco, Texas. Developed as a first-of-its-kind partnership between the City of Frisco, Frisco ISD and the Dallas Cowboys, The Star features Ford Center, a 12,000-seat stadium that hosts Frisco ISD football games, other world class sporting events such as top flight boxing matches, concerts and other events; Cowboys Fit, a 60,000 square-foot gym developed in partnership with leading fitness developer, Mark Mastrov; Cowboys Club, a members-only club where the country club meets the NFL; the Omni Frisco Hotel, a 16-floor, 300-room luxury hotel; Baylor Scott & White Sports Therapy & Research at The Star, a 300,000 square-foot center of excellence for sports medicine; Twelve, a 17-story, luxury residential tower in partnership between Pro Football Hall-of-Fame Quarterback #12 Roger Staubach, and Dallas-based developer and former Dallas Cowboys center, Robert Shaw; Formation, a dynamic coworking experience offering a collaborative work environment of open workspace, dedicated desks and private offices; as well as a variety of shopping, dining and nightlife options throughout The Star District. For more information on The Star, visit www.TheStarInFrisco.com.

NEW YORK CITY — In the main event from Madison Square Garden, Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin (40-1-1, 35KO) scored a unanimous decision (114-113, 115-112×2), edging past Sergiy “The Technician” Derevyanchenko (13-2, 10KO) to recapture the IBF middleweight title he once owned in an all action Fight of the Year candidate streamed live on DAZN.  

It was a bombs-away affair from the get-go and similar to Dervenyanchenko’s title fight against Daniel Jacobs, the Ukranian came out of cold and was caught and dropped by a Golovkin right on the top of the head midway through the first round. GGG carried his momentum into the second round and landed a vicious lead left hook that opened a nasty gash over Derevyanchenko’s right eye that immediately sent blood running down the 33 year-old’s face.  

Perhaps spurred on by a sense of urgency brought on by the cut, Derevyanchenko stepped up pressure in the third round and started taking the fight to Golovkin, committing heavy shots to the 37 year-old’s body which immediately started to pay dividends.

Credit Derevyanchenko’s cutman, Mike Bazzel, who worked on the gruesome cut round after round, and did a good enough job to satisfy the ringside physicians who continually inspected the Ukranians eye throughout the fight.  

Derevyanchenko noticeably hurt Golovkin for the first time in the fight late into the fifth with a left hook to the liver that produced a wince from GGG and sent him backpedaling in retreat.  The following round witnessed Golovkin sucking wind, breathing deeply through his mouth, while the bloody Derevyanchenko applied more pressure.  

After dropping the early-middle rounds, Golovkin dug in in the seventh and rallied, landing huge left hooks that targeted the worsening cut over Derevyanchenko’s eye.  

The eight and ninth played host to wild exchanges where both fighters were willing to take punches to land their own shots. 

But in the tenth, a surefire Round of the Year candidate, Derevyanchenko came out of his corner guns-a-blazin’ and wailed away on GGG, who found himself in a world of hurt.  But the Kazakh once again found something within himself, withstood Derevyanchenko’s onslaught, and scored with his own huge shots as the round progressed. 

The championship rounds witnessed back and forth action with GGG besting Derevyanchenko during the most meaningful exchanges.  

At the end of twelve, judge Kevin Morgan scored the bout 114-113 and both Eric Marlinski and Frank Lombardi had it 115-112, all for Golovkin.  15Rounds.com also scored it 115-112.

Golovkin now reclaims ownership to the IBF world title he once held and the one that rival Saul “Canelo” Alvarez was stripped of earlier this year after Alvarez and Golden Boy Promotions failed to make a fight with Dereveyanchenko, the IBF mandatory challenger, by a set deadline.  

Tonight marked the second fight GGG worked with trainer Jonathan Banks in his corner.  Banks entered the picture after Golovkin and longtime trainer Abel Sanchez went through an ugly public divorce earlier this year.

For Derevyanchenko, tonight marked the second straight fight he had his longtime trainer, Andre Rozier operating as his corner’s chief second.  Derevyanchenko, who is co-trained by Rozier and Gary Stark, was forced to split from Rozier and work solely with Stark for his title clash with Daniel Jacobs, who is also trained by Rozier.  It was the second time the Ukranian came up short in a title bout, the other being to Jacobs earlier this year.  

It was Golovkin’s second consecutive fight and fifth overall inside the main room at the “World’s Most Famous Arena”, where he’s amassed a record of (4-0, 3KO).  He last fought at the Garden in June when he knocked out Steve Forbes in 4 rounds.   

Golovkin’s lone defeat remains his controversial MD defeat to Canelo Alvarez in 2018.  The two rivals also fought to a draw in 2017 in a fight that many believe Golovkin deserved to win. 

Madrimov Batters Barrera En Route To 5th Round TKO

In the co-feature from Madison Square Garden, unbeaten Uzbeki junior middleweight Israil “The Dream” Madrimov (4-0, 4KO) destroyed Mexican veteran Alejandro Barrera (29-6, 18KO), scoring a fifth round TKO in a contest initially slated for ten rounds.  

Madrimov, 24, set the tone early when he landed a leaping left hook that floored Barrera early in the first.  Instead of headhunting the foggy Barrera, Madrimov make a conscious effort to batter Barrera’s body for the remainder of the opening round.  

Madrimov, who is one of a seemingly endless number of Uzbeki fighters training out of Joel Diaz’s gym in Indio, CA, fought a level above Barrera, who did his best to slip and counter the forward-pressing Madrimov.  Madrimov kept coming though, altering from orthodox to southpaw, pouring in jabs to the body and head, and consistently working his way inside to unload.  

By the fifth round, Madrimov’s body shots began to take their toll on the 33 year-old Barrera, whose movement and reflexes significantly slowed.  It then became open season for the Matchroom Boxing prospect, who potshotted Barrera with head-snapping blows until referee Benjy Esteves stepped in to stop the punishment at the 2:36 mark of the fifth round.  

Madrimov now joins Errol Spence Jr. as the only other fighter to have stopped Barrera inside the distance.  

Baranchyk Blasts Bracero, Scores TKO3

Former IBF junior welterweight champion Ivan “The Beast” Baranchyk (20-1, 13KO) bounced back from his World Boxing Super Series semi final defeat to Josh Taylor, scoring a fourth round TKO against veteran Gabriel Bracero (25-4-1, 6KO) in a contest originally scheduled for ten rounds.

It was bombs away for Baranchyk in the opening round, as the 26 year-old threw haymaker after haymaker, hoping to land a fight-ending blow early.  Credit the crafty Brooklynite, Bracero, who was able to remain composed during Baranchyk’s early bursts, and pepper in counter shots that would momentarily halt the Beast’s momentum.  

In the second, Baranchyk began connecting with his power shots.  Using his jab only to set up hooks and crosses, Baranchyk landed a huge left hook early in the round and briefly staggered Bracero.  The two engaged in numerous exchanges throughout the remainder of the round, and at times Bracero would land clean, but his punches did little to deter the forward momentum of Baranchyk who would open a cut over Bracero’s right eye before round’s end.  

In the fourth round, Baranchyk planted a heavy left hook to Bracero’s liver that forced him against the ropes.  Baranchyk immediately followed the body shot with a clean jab and a huge right cross that sent Bracero stumbling forward to the mat.  A dazed Bracero beat referee Arthur Mercante Jr.’s ten count but his corner stepped in to stop the contest before action resumed. The official time of the stoppage came at the 1:30 mark of the fourth round.  

Akhmadev Walks Through Hernandez, Stops Him In One

Khazak-born super middleweight Ali Akhmadev (16-0, 12KO) needed just :44 seconds of a scheduled ten rounds to land a fight-ending right cross to Andrew Hernandez’s (20-8-2, 9KO) temple.  

The GGG stable-mate, who is also trained by Jonathan Banks, set the right hand up nicely by throwing it behind a stiff jab. 

It was Akhmadev’s second straight win inside the distance, and just the fourth time Hernandez has been stopped in his thirty fight career.  

Ceballo Disposes Of Amanov In 3

In a battle of unbeatens, former five-time New York Golden Gloves Champion Brian Ceballo (11-0,6KO) scored a third round TKO over fellow welterweight Ramal Amanov (16-1, 5KO), handing the Azerbaijan native his first pro defeat.  

The 25 year-old Ceballo dominated from the onset, proving to be too quick and too slick for the 35 year-old Amanov.

Early on, a Ceballo left opened a bothersome cut over Amanov’s right eye.  In the third round, Ceballo, who was fighting for the fifth time in 2019, landed another left that knocked Amanov off-balance.  The Fort Greene Brooklyn native Ceballo followed up the left with a flurry of shots that prompted referee Arthur Mercante, Jr. to step in and stop the contest at the 1:20 mark of the third round.  

Szeremeta Shines In US Debut, Scores TKO2 Over Cortes

In his US debut, unbeaten Polish middleweight Kamil Szeremeta (21-0, 5KO) scored a second round TKO over Mexican veteran Oscar Cortes (27-5,14KO).  

The 29 year-old Szeremeta asserted himself early, dropping Corets with a beautifully thrown left hook to the chin in the opening round.  The tattooed Pole kept the heat on in the second, hurting Cortes with an overhand right, before finishing him off with a final left-right combo.  With doctors clamoring on the apron, referee Benjy Esteves Jr. called a halt to the bout at the :45 second mark of round two.  

It was the fourth time in Cortes’ career that he’s been stopped inside the distance and just Szeremeta’s win via stoppage in his last nine contests.  

Injury Spoils Irishman Joe Ward’s Pro Debut, Suffers TKO Loss 

Former 2016 Irish Olympian Joseph Ward (0-1) had his pro debut spoiled when he suffered a gruesome knee injury midway through the second round of a scheduled six round light heavyweight clash that resulted in his opponent, Marco Delgado (6-2, 4KO), being awarded a TKO victory.

The end came suddenly in the second when a Delgado feint drew a reaction from Ward, whose knee twisted awkwardly and immediately gave out, leaving Ward reeling in pain on the mat.  Referee Eddie Claudio ruled the injury “self-imposed”, and therefore Delgado received a win by TKO. The time of the stoppage came at the 1:00 mark of round 2. After doctors tended to Ward’s knee, the gritty Irishman — who is trained by Buddy McGirt — walked out of the ring under his power.  

Ababiy Kicks Off MSG Card In Style; Stops Seldon In One

Twenty year-old Matchroom Boxing super middleweight prospect Nikita “White Chocolate” Ababiy needed less than one of a scheduled six rounds to up his already perfect record to 7-0, 6KO, earning a first round TKO against 31 year-old veteran Isiah Seldon (13-3-1, 4KO).  

Ababiy, who trains under Aureliano Sosa and fights out of Brooklyn, NY, was relentless, battering Seldon’s body, before coming upstairs to deliver a definitive blow that left Seldon unable to continue as the bout was waved off at the 1:45 mark of the opening round.

It was the fifth stoppage in six career wins for the Keith Connolly managed fighter.  

On the flip side, tonight’s TKO marked just the second time in seventeen pro bouts that Seldon had been stopped inside the distance. 

The Ababiy stoppage kicked off a night of fights from Madison Square Garden that will culminate when former middleweight king Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin and Sergiy Derevyanchenko clash for the vacant IBF middleweight title in a bout that will be streamed live on DAZN. 

Gennady Golovkin stopped previously undefeated Steve Rolls in round four of a scheduled 12-round over the limit middleweight fight at Madison Square Garden.

In round two, Rolls gave as good as he received as he landed a hard left that snapped Golovkin’s head back. Golovkin landed some nice body shots. In round three, Rolls landed a nice counter right. Golovkin came back with hard body work.

In round four, Golovkin landed a chopping hook that sent Rolls back to the ropes. Golovkin landed a head and body shot before landing a flush left to the face that sent Rolls face-first on the canvas, and he was counted out by referee Steve Willis at 2:09

Golovkin of Kazakstan is now 39–1-1 with 35 knockouts. Rolls of Toronto is 19-1.

Super Middleweight Ali Akhmedov stopped Marcus McDaniel in round three of a scheduled 10-round super middleweight bout.

Super Middleweight Ali Akhmedov stopped Marcus McDaniel in round three of a scheduled 10-round super middleweight bout.

In round three, Akhmedov landed a hard combination on the ropes that sent McDaniel to a knee. McDaniel got to his feet, but was unsteady and the fight was stopped by referee Benji Esteves at 1:41.

Akhmedov, 167.4 lbs of Kazakhstan is 15-0 with 11 knockouts. McDaniel, 168 lbs of New Orleans is 15-1.

Five-time New York Golden Gloves winner Brian Ceballo turned in the best performance of his career and took an eight-round unanimous decision of Bakhtiyar Eyubov in welterweight contest.

Ceballo landed hard jabs and string right hands from the opening bell. .  Ceballo was very accurate with his shots.  Ceballo looked very sharp as he landed crisp power shots in between Eyubov’s wild attempts to inflict on the Brooklyn native.  Ceballo continued to land sweet combinations that befuddled Eyubov.  In round eight, Ceballo hurt Eyubov was a nice body shot.  The two battled toe-to-toe down the stretch with Ceballo landing more, quicker and much more fluid combinations that marked up the face of Eyubov.

Ceballo of Brooklyn NY won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 to raise his perfect mark to 9-0. Eyubov of Kazakhstan is 14-1-1.

Israil Madrimov remained undefeated by stopping Norberto Gonzalez in rounds six of their scheduled 10-round junior middleweight contest.

Madrimov was dominant by stalking Gonzalez, and in round six, he turned up the activity by landing a heavy combination that hurt Gonzalez and the fight was stopped at 49 seconds.

Mdrimov, 152 lbs of Uzbekistan is 3-0 with three knockouts. Gonzalez, 152.8 lbs of Monterrey, Mexico us 24-13.

2016 U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell remained perfect with a 10-round unanimous decision over Courtney Pennington to win the USBA Junior Middleweight championship.

In round two, Conwell hurt Pennington with a left hook. In round six, Conwell continued to batter Pennington as he landed a hard combination along the ropes that featured a solid left hook and flush right.  In round eight, Pennington suffered a cut over his right eye from a left-right combination from Conwell.  In round ten, he stunned Pennington again with a right hand.

Conwell, 153.4 lbs of Cleveland won by scores of 97-92 twice and 96-93, and is now 10-0. Pennington, 152 lbs of Brooklyn is 12-4-3.

Nikita Ababiy made quick work of Juan Francsico Lopez Barajas as he scored a one-punch, 41-second knockout in their scheduled four-round middleweight contest.

Ababiy landed a left hook to the liver that sent Barajas down. Barajas was in pain, and tried to get up but fell right back down and the fight was stopped.

Ababiy, 162.6 lbs of Brooklyn is 5-0 with five knockouts. Lopez, 157.2 lbs of Mexico is 5-1.

Los Angeles, CA (March 10, 2019) Uzbek star Israil ‘The Dream’ Madrimov, (2-0, 2KO), fighting in his second professional bout on Saturday night, March 9, scored a stunning second round knockout of Frank ‘The Rooster’ Rojas, (24-3-0, 23 KOs), in their scheduled ten-round bout at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, NY. The fight was telecast live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK. With the victory, Madrimov made the first defense of his WBA Inter-Continental Super Welterweight Title.

Attacking from the opening bell with a full arsenal of power shots to the head and body, the 24-year-old Madrimov dropped Rojas with a blistering combination in the second stanza as the valiant Venezuelan beat the count of referee Benjy Esteves. Trained by the renowned Joel Diaz in Indio, CA, Madrimov went on the attack and earned the knockout with a vicious combination as the fight was stopped at the time of 1:56 of the round.

Following the fight, Madrimov expressed interest in fighting for a world title in the near future. ‘I’m ready for a world title fight right now, I’d love to face the WBO Champion Jaime Munguia, that would be a great fight for the fans.”

Madrimov is promoted by World of Boxing who last week announced a partnership with Matchroom Boxing for his future fights.

“Israil was outstanding last night, we believe he is ready for a world title fight right now and we look forward to working with Matchroom Boxing to facilitate that, “ said Andrei Ryanbinsky, head of World of Boxing.

Stated manager Vadim Kornilov, “Israil wanted to fight for a world title in his professional debut and his performances continue to validate that he’s ready. We’d love to fight Jaime Munguia this year. Both fight on DAZN so there’s no network or promotional obstacles and this would be a very big fight in Southern California.”

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Madrimov made history in his pro debut on November 24, 2018 which was uniquely scheduled for an unprecedented ten-rounds. The 24-year-old Madrimov knocked out Vladimir Hernandez in the sixth round of their battle in Atlantic City, New Jersey earning the WBA Inter-Continental Super Welterweight Title. Hernandez was a very tough test for the pro debut, having previously twice beaten top undefeated prospect Danny Valdivia (14-0), in his direct bouts prior to facing Madrimov.

Prior to turning professional Madrimov was the Gold Medal winner at the 2018 and 2017 Asian Games capping an extraordinary amateur career. Capable of fighting aggressively in the orthodox or southpaw stance, Madrimov thrilled the crowd in Atlantic City with his all-action style and capped his pro debut victory with a spectacular, high-flying backflip.