ARLINGTON, TX (April 26, 2023): Undefeated knockout artist William “El Camarón” Zepeda (27-0, 23 KOs) of San Mateo, Mexico hosted a media workout today at Maple Avenue Boxing Gym to promote his upcoming fight against former world champion challenger of Curundu, Panama Jaime “Jaimito” Arboleda (19-2, 14 KOs). Zepeda will be defending his WBA Continental Americas Lightweight Title in a 12-round main event that is presented in association with Sampson Boxing and broadcast live worldwide on DAZN from College Park Center at The University of Texas at Arlington campus. Doors to College Park Center open at 5:00 p.m. CT, the opening bout begins at 5:05 p.m. CT, and the DAZN broadcast will begin at 7:00 p.m. CT/ 8:00 p.m. ET.

Also participating in the media workout were Diego De La Hoya (24-1, 11 KOs) who will participate in a 10-round featherweight fight against stablemate Victor Morales, Jr. (17-0-1, 8 KOs) who are fighting for the WBA Intercontinental Featherweight Title.

This is what the fighters had to say:
WILLIAM “EL CAMARON” ZEPEDA, WBA CONTINENTAL AMERICAS LIGHTWEIGHT TITLEHOLDER:
“I am always preparing, and I was ready for this fight. I was lightly training already, at the ready to get the call. When I did, I was overjoyed, as I was excited to fight in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Champions are made by taking advantage of opportunities. When we defeated Joseph Diaz last year, my team and I trained hard to take advantage of the opportunity and it worked out perfectly for us.”

“Getting the opportunity to headline as the red corner this time around is a blessing, and is the result of years of sacrifice, discipline, and hard work. We won’t let the fans down this Saturday, April 29!”

JAIME “JAIMITO” ARBOLEDA, LIGHTWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“I am very happy and very grateful to Golden Boy for the opportunity as well as my promoter Sampson Boxing. And there really isn’t much more to say except that we are going to give fans a big show this April 29.”

“I come from a boxing family; my father, brothers, uncles and many other loved ones have dedicated their time to the sport, and I continue the family’s legacy in boxing. We are going to show this Saturday that the Arboleda’s still have much to give to this very difficult sport.”

DIEGO DE LA HOYA, FEATHERWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“We prepared hard for this fight, I’m climbing my way back to the top, and a win against Morales, Jr. helps me go up in the rankings.”

“In all honesty, I feel like while we are the co-main event, this fight will steal the night. Both of us have something to prove in the ring and won’t want to lose. We are fighting for our careers and for the bigger opportunities that await for us on the other side.”

VICTOR MORALES, JR., FEATHERWEIGHT FIGHTER:

“I’m super excited to be here. It’s been a good camp, it’s a good card and I’m excited to be the co-main event. I asked for this fight against Diego De La Hoya. I wanted to challenge myself with the best in the division and this is one step towards our goal to gain some more name recognition.”

“This year I would really like to secure a junior title, and hopefully be able to make the rankings to get a world title shot in the longterm future. I finally feel like I’m getting the exposure I feel like I deserve after 18-years in the sport.”

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Zepeda vs. Arboleda is a 12-round fight for the WBA Continental Americas Lightweight Title and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, April 29 at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

Tickets are on-sale and are priced at $150, $90, $60, $45 and $30 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at UTATickets.com, AXS.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

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

ARLINGTON, TX (April 25, 2023): The countdown continues towards the title showdown between undefeated knockout artist William “El Camarón” Zepeda (27-0, 23 KOs) of San Mateo, Mexico who will defend his WBA Continental Americas Lightweight Title against former world champion challenger of Curundu, Panama Jaime “Jaimito” Arboleda (19-2, 14 KOs). The 12-round main event is presented in association with Sampson Boxing, and will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN from College Park Center at The University of Texas at Arlington campus. Doors to College Park Center open at 5:00 p.m. CT, the opening bout begins at 5:05 p.m. CT, and the DAZN broadcast will begin at 7:00 p.m. CT/ 8:00 p.m. ET. 

In the co-main event, Diego De La Hoya (24-1, 11 KOs) will participate in a 10-round featherweight fight against stablemate Victor Morales, Jr.  (17-0-1, 8 KOs). The two will now be fighting for the WBA Intercontinental Featherweight Title. 

Chicago’s Frederick “General Okunka” Lawson (29-3, 22 KOs) will fight Estevan “Manos De Oro” Villalobos (16-1-1, 12 KOs) of Mount Vernon, Washington in a 10-round super welterweight bout. Opening up the DAZN broadcast with eight-rounds of super middleweight action, Reading, Pennsylvania’s David “Dynamite” Stevens (12-0, 9 KOs) will face off against Marco Periban (26-6-1, 17 KOs) of Mexico City. 

Also on the card, Tristan “Sweet T” Kalkreuth (9-1, 7 KOs) of Duncanville, Texas is scheduled for a six-round heavyweight fight against Jonathon “The Reaper” Rice (2-2, 2 KOs) of Cleburne, Texas. Caleb Suniga (1-0) of Austin, Texas will participate in a four-round super featherweight fight against Chichigalpa, Nicaragua’s Carlos Arroyo (5-22-1, 4 KOs). 

Darius “DFG” Fulghum (3-0, 3 KOs) of Houston will face Julio Bendana (6-6, 3 KOs) of Managua, Nicaragua in a six-round light heavyweight bout. Opening the fight night, Robert “El Terror de Cayey” Cruz (8-0, 4 KOs) of Killeen, Texas is scheduled for a six-round super middleweight fight against Houston’s Tyrone “Solja Black” Selders (9-15-2, 6 KOs).

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Zepeda vs. Arboleda is a 12-round fight for the WBA Continental Americas Lightweight Title and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, April 29 at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

Tickets are on-sale and are priced at $150, $90, $60, $45 and $30 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at UTATickets.com, AXS.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com. 

ARLINGTON, TX (April 7, 2023): Knockout artist and undefeated pugilist William “El Camarón” Zepeda (27-0, 23 KOs) of San Mateo, Mexico will return to the ring after pulling an upset against Joseph Diaz, Jr. last October 2022 and is now scheduled to defend his WBA Continental Americas Lightweight Title against former world champion challenger of Curundu, Panama Jaime “Jaimito” Arboleda (19-2, 14 KOs). The two fighters will participate in a 12-round lightweight fight that is presented in association with Sampson Boxing. The event, originally announced as Eimantas Stanionis versus Vergil Ortiz, Jr., will still take place at College Park Center at The University of Texas at Arlington campus and will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN. 

“I am very excited for the opportunity to showcase my talents to all my Texas fans,” said William Zepeda. “You don’t want to miss April 29th, get ready to see who ‘El Camarón’ is live!”

“I can’t predict the outcome of a fight, but one thing’s for sure: I’m stepping into that ring with everything I’ve got,” said Jaime Arboleda. “I am ready to give it my all and leave it all in the ring. Bring it on.” 

“In an absolutely stacked lightweight division, I don’t think there is anyone I would favor over Zepeda,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya. “But other fighters have been favored over Arboleda before and ended up tasting defeat. To get to the next level, Zepeda must continue to use the volume of punches and relentlessness that have made him a force to be reckoned with.” 

In the co-main event, Diego De La Hoya (24-1, 11 KOs) will participate in a 10-round featherweight fight against stablemate Victor Morales (17-0-1, 8 KOs). De La Hoya was last seen December 2022 with a victory against Jose Santos Gonzalez. Morales is coming off of a win against Diuhl Olguin last November 2022. 

Guadalajara’s Raul “El Cugar” Curiel (12-0, 10 KOs) will participate in a 10-round welterweight bout against Chicago’s Frederick Lawson (29-3, 22 KOs). Curiel is coming in hot after an explosive, second-round victory against Brad Solomon last December 2022. 

In the night’s special female championship presentation, the WBA, WBC and Ring Magazine Flyweight World Champion of Houston, Texas, Marlen Esparza (13-1, 1 KOs) will defend her titles against Merlo, Argentina’s Gabriela Alaniz (14-0, 6 KOs). The fight is scheduled for 10-rounds. 

Opening up the DAZN broadcast with eight-rounds of super middleweight action, Reading Pennsylvania’s David Stevens (12-0, 9 KOs) will face off against Marco Periban (26-6-1, 17 KOs) of Mexico City. Opening up fight night, Caleb Zuniga (1-0) of Austin, Texas will participate in a four-round super featherweight fight against a soon to be announced opponent. 

Tickets are on-sale and are priced at $150, $90, $60, $45 and $30 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at UTATickets.com, AXS.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com. 

Fans who previously purchased Stanionis vs. Ortiz, Jr. tickets have two options: (1) Keep purchased tickets and receive a partial refund of the difference with the new price or (2) a full refund of tickets purchased. Ticket holders are highly encouraged to fill out their preference at THIS link. If an option is not chosen, tickets will remain the same at the original price point. 

Media interested in applying for a credential can apply HERE. Media credential applications are due by EOD April 17. 

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Zepeda vs. Arboleda is a 12-round fight for the WBA Continental Americas Lightweight Title and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts,” and AutoZone, “Get in the zone, AutoZone.” The fight will take place on Saturday, April 29  at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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

This Friday, January 14, 2022, Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing, Carlos Gonzalez of Best Box, Carlos Andres Tello of Tello-Box and Paco Damian of Paco Presents will present “Box & Roll,” the third instalment of a six-card series of professional boxing shows at the Vasco Núñez de Balboa Convention Center in the El Panama Hotel in Panama City, Panama.

Broadcast live internationally on TyC Sports and in Panama on TV Max Channel 9, in the night’s 10-round main event, Curundu, Panama’s Jaime “Jaimito” Arboleda (17-2, 14 KOs) will face Nicolas Polanco (20-1-1, 11 KOs) of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic for the WBC Latino Silver Lightweight Championship.

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

Also in action will be a female fighter on the fast track appearing in a televised showdown, as Coachella, California’s former amateur standout Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (4-0, 2 KOs) will take on Santiago de Veraguas, Panama’s Nataly Delgado (8-4-1, 3 KOs) in a 10-round battle for the WBC Latino Flyweight Championship.

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

In the TV swing bout, Panama City’s Jordan Salas (0-0-1) will look for his first career victory over debuting fellow Panamanian Pedro Munoz (0-0).

On the untelevised undercard, La Palma, Panama, heavyweight Abdiel Matute (2-1, 1 KO) will fight a four-rounder against Managua, Nicaragua’s David Bejarano (1-4, 1 KO); and in a four-round welterweight bout, Los Santo, Panama’s Alcibiades Ballesteros (0-1) will take on Panama City’s Jonathan Torres (3-0).

The night will begin at 5:00 pm EST with an amateur boxing tournament. Sembrando Campeones, a running program for South American amateur boxing, features the next wave of fighting talent from Uruguay and Panama.

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

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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

Thanks to the generous support of Mexican gambling-industry giants Caliente, on Thursday, August 19, 2021, promoters Sampson Boxing, Best Box and Paco Presents will host the first of a six-event series of professional boxing shows, entitled “Boxeo Caliente,” to be held at the Vasco Núñez de Balboa Convention Center in the El Panama Hotel in Panama City, Panama, broadcast live internationally on TyC Sports, and in Panama on TV Max.

For the inaugural Boxeo Caliente main event, Panamanian hero and WBA #9 super featherweight Jaime “Jaimito” Arboleda (16-2, 13 KOs) will take on Argentinean two-time world champion Jonathan “Yoni” Barros (43-7-1, 22 KOs) in a “can’t miss” all-action war over 10 rounds for the WBA Fedebol Super Featherweight Championship.

And in the “all southpaw” 10-round co-main event that night, former Argentinean super middleweight champion Sebastian “La Promesa” Papeschi (17-3, 6 KOs) will face fellow left-hander and dangerous Colombian puncher Dormedes Potes (12-3-1, 9 KOs) of Barranquilla.

In another important televised battle, lightweight Darvin Galeano (10-0, 7 KOs) of Calidonia, Panama, via Monteria, Colombia, will be put to the test against fellow prospect Humberto Galindo (13-1-1, 10 KOs) of Riverside, California, in a 10-round early-crossroads showdown.

Opening the broadcast will be an exciting eight-round featherweight duel between undefeated hometown hero Jose “Magnifico” Nunez (11-0-2, 4 KOs) of Panama City and fellow southpaw Jorge “El Demoledor” Saquinga (10-7-1, 4 KOs) of Quito, Ecuador.

“This first show, like all the shows, will be packed with top South American talent in sensational matchups guaranteed to produce fireworks,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “Thank you to our generous sponsors Caliente. My partners and I are proud to be putting on such a great show that will surely delight the fans around the world and especially from the boxing-rich country of Panama.”

“I am very excited that boxing is reactivating in Panama,” said Carlos Gonzalez of Best Box. “There are many very talented fighters from this area and their time has come to move onto the world stage in these important fights. I thank all my partners on this fantastic series and look forward to a great event to kick it off.”

A series of amateur fights are scheduled to open the show before the professional boxing begins. Sampson Lewkowicz has always been an enthusiastic supporter of amateur boxing programs in South American countries, including the CUBAP tournament he co-sponsors with the WBC annually. One such amateur tournament was won by Uruguay’s Amilcar Vidal, who, fighting under the Sampson Boxing banner, has gone on to become a top-rated contender and American TV favorite.

The second installment of Boxeo Caliente is scheduled for September 10, 2021 with matchups to be announced shortly.
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.

Chris Colbert retained the WBA Interim Junior Lightweight world title with an 11th round stoppage over Jaime Arboleda at the Mohegan Sun In Uncasville, Connecticut.

In round eight, Colbert was deducted a point for a low blow. In round nine, Colbert sent Arboleda down with a left hook. In round 11, Colbert sent Arboleda down with a hard combination. Colbert sent Arboleda down again with a snapping left that sent Arboleda down on his face. Colbert ended things with a crushing combination that forced referee Steve Willis to stop the bout as Arboleda was falling down at 1:37.

Colbert, 130 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 15-o with six knockouts. Arboledo, 130 lbs of Miami, FL is 16-2.

CHRIS COLBERT

“I felt like I put on a big performance tonight. This is one of the hardest training camps of my life because of the pandemic. We came in, got the job done and finished with a knockout.

“I saw that he said he was going to be the bull in this fight, so I had to show him what a real bull does. In Brooklyn, we don’t run.

“I knew that he was going to be slower and throw wide shots. I knew if I threw in between his shots, then I’d be able to clip him. I followed my game plan and got him out of there.

“I came to show the 130-pound division that I can punch. I’m here and I’m here to stay.

“I’m more than just a flashy boxer. I can stand in there and bang. I know there were close rounds in the fight, but I understood that as it was happening. It was part of the game plan. I knew what I was doing. I was wearing him down to knock him out late. I did what I said I’d do.

“I’ve been training since July. I’m going to rest for a little bit and wherever my team puts me next, I’m ready. I’m not ducking or dodging anyone. I want anyone in the top five.”

“I dominated the whole fight. I probably gave him two rounds, but that was by choice. I just wanted to build his confidence. Because I knew I was going to stop him in the later rounds. 

“I just kept my head up after the deduction and kept coming strong. I had to come out here and put on a dominating performance. I talk alot, so I had to make sure I backed it up. 

“I wanted to make a statement and let the whole division know that I’m here to stay. I showed everyone that I can do more than just punch and move, like people say I do. I showed everything tonight. 

“I feel like I always had some type of power, but I was punching and moving at the same time. If I sit down on my punches, I can really hurt guys. That’s what’s been happening in my last few fights. 

“Early on in the fight I hurt my left hand. So I couldn’t really use my jab without hurting myself. I just sucked it up and said that I was going to finish this fight strong. That’s exactly what I did. 

“Round nine he landed a lot of shots. I think it’s the most anyone has ever landed on me and I can’t say why I was letting that happen. I could have slipped a lot of them, but it’s boxing. I just made sure that I finished the fight strong.

“Arboleda was definitely a strong young fighter. I hope he keeps his head up and comes back stronger.”

Hitchins Decisions Mendez

Richardson Hichins won a 10-round split decision over former world champion Argenis Mendez in a junior welterweight bout.

Hitchins landed 117 of 333 punches; Mendez was 92 of 346.

Hitchins, 140 lbs of New York won by scores of 98-92 and 99-91, while Mendez won a card 97-93 and is now 12-0. Mendez, 140 lbs of Yonkers, NY is 25-6-3.

RICHARDSON HITCHINS

“I rate my performance a B+. I think I might have lost one round. I could have gotten an A if I put a little more hurt on him, but I knew his defense would be tight. I’ve watched him since I was a kid. I knew he was a smart fighter. With the amount of experience I have compared to him, it was a great performance.

“Now I have my first world champion under my belt just 12 fights in. It’s a tremendous honor. I haven’t been boxing as long as he’s been professional. I’m proud of myself.

“He was a big step up from who I’ve been fighting. He felt disrespected when they sent him my name. He said he was going to use his experience to stop me, but I dominated the fight. I hurt him in the seventh, but he’s crafty and has enough pop so that I couldn’t be careless. I was happy to cruise to the victory and win almost every round.

“This fight went how I wanted it to go. I knew it would get tougher as the rounds went on. I believe that I dominated the fight. I knew he was going to get close and make it rough but I was ready.

“I could tell in the first round he wanted to see what I had and was feeling me out. The only way he was going to be able to beat me was by pressuring me and going for the knockout. I wasn’t going to let any of that work though.

“My jab couldn’t miss. I landed good overhand rights and short uppercuts. He was protecting his body very well, so I couldn’t go there like I wanted to. My jab landed every round. He couldn’t take it away from me.”

Ellis gets win over Korobov after Korobov hurts foot

Ronald Ellis was awarded one second into round five of his scheduled 10-round super middleweight fight after Korobov hurt his left leg.

This was the 2nd straight fight that Korobov had to bow out of. About a year ago, Korobov hurt his shoulder after the opening round with his fight with Chris Eubank Jr.

Ellis, who was five pounds overweight at Friday’s weigh-in is now 18-1-2-1 with 12 stoppages. Korobov, 160 lbs of Royal Palm Beach, FL is 28-4-1.

“I know he dies out in the later rounds so I was going to step on it in the second half of the fight. It’s been a while and I know that this wasn’t my best performance. He’s awkward, he’s a southpaw. I hardly fought lefties and I hate fighting southpaws.

“He wasn’t giving me that much but I was trying to beat him by a few punches each round. I heard the announcers say that I wasn’t throwing as much as I usually do but I was giving what I was getting. After I heard that, I stepped it up. Once I saw that his leg was hurt, I was nervous we were going to the scorecards because he might have grabbed early rounds.

“I can’t say it enough, I did what I had to do and he took the fight. I came here five pounds over and just couldn’t shake them off. I just have to tighten up the diet. I have been hearing from a lot of boxers about it. I promise that will be the last time that ever happens. I want to stay at 160 lbs. My power is there at 160 lbs. I was taking Korobov’s shots well and I just felt like 160 is where I belong, I’ve just got to get my fat ass working.

“He wanted Jermall Charlo, right? Well, I want Charlo then. But I will take anyone. I know that performance was not the best and I probably shouldn’t be calling people out but I am. I am going to be around for a long time and want the big names. “

WBA Super Featherweight Interim World Championship – 12 Rounds

Chris Colbert – 130 lbs.

Jaime Arboleda – 130 lbs.

Referee: Steve Willis (New York); Judges: John McKaie (New York), Tom Schreck (New York), Steve Weisfeld (New Jersey),

Super Lightweights – 10 Rounds

Richardson Hitchins – 140 lbs. 

Argenis Mendez – 140 lbs.

Referee: Danny Schiavone (Wethersfield, Conn.); Judges: Don Ackerman (New York), Glenn Feldman (Connecticut), Steve Weisfeld (New Jersey)

Middleweights – 10 Rounds

Ronald Ellis – 166 lbs.*

Matt Korobov – 160 lbs.

*–Ellis missed the contracted 161-pound weight limit; The fight will proceed as scheduled.

Referee: Johnny Callas (Connecticut); Judges: Glenn Feldman (Connecticut), John McKaie (New York), Tom Schreck (New York)

NOTE: Saturday’s SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast will include highlights from highly regarded featherweight prospect David Navarro’s second professional fight. The 21-year-old Los Angeles native opted to forgo the chance to represent the U.S. at next summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo, turning professional in October and putting an end to a decorated amateur career that saw him win multiple national titles. The talented Navarro comes from a boxing family which includes his uncle Jose Navarro, a 2000 U.S. Olympian and older brother Jonathan, an undefeated 140-pound prospect. Navarro earned a first-round TKO in his October pro debut. 

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing. Hitchins vs. Mendez is co-promoted by Mayweather Promotions.

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ABOUT COLBERT VS. ARBOLEDA

Colbert vs. Arboleda will see two of the top fighters in the 130-pound division meet when unbeaten interim WBA Super Featherweight Champion Chris “Primetime” Colbert faces the hard-hitting Jaime Arboleda in the main event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, December 12 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The tripleheader will see rising super lightweight phenom Richardson Hitchins taking on the toughest test of his young career as he faces former world champion Argenis Mendez in the 10-round co-main event and middleweight contenders Ronald Ellis and Matt Korobov battle in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

NEW YORK – December 10, 2020 – Unbeaten interim WBA Super Featherweight Champion Chris “Primetime” Colbert and hard-hitting Jaime Arboleda previewed their upcoming showdown taking place live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, December 12 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.

Also discussing their respective clashes were rising super lightweight Richardson Hitchins and former champion Argenis Mendez, who meet in the 10-round co-main event, and middleweight contenders Ronald Ellis and Matt Korobov, who battle in a 10-round duel to open the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing. Hitchins vs. Mendez is co-promoted by Mayweather Promotions.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

CHRIS COLBERT

“I didn’t watch film on Arboleda. I know he is going to come game and I know his trainer is going to have him in great shape and ready to fight. I am coming to execute my game plan on Saturday night on SHOWTIME. I am just going to be me – ‘Primetime’ – and this time on primetime TV.

“I feel I am one of the best at 130-pounds, but until I prove that in the ring, I can’t consider myself the best in the division yet. I want to get in there with the top five guys. I know I can beat any champion in this weight class.

“I predict a dominating performance. My name is Chris ‘Primetime’ Colbert, I have to look spectacular every single time. You never saw Deion ‘Primetime’ Sanders come out and not look spectacular.”

JAIME ARBOLEDA

“Chris is a very good fighter and a great boxer. He is in the top of the division as far as his boxing skills. On Saturday night, I am going to test him. I don’t think Chris has been tested like I have. I was tested in my last fight against Jayson Velez and came out victorious. Chris is not as strong as Velez.

“Colbert’s biggest downfall will be his arrogance. He doesn’t have the firepower to finish me with one punch. He’s not a puncher like that. He picks his shots and moves. He’s a boxer and I am a boxer-puncher.”

RICHARDSON HITCHINS

“After a year like this, I’m just ready to finish it off in spectacular fashion. I was blessed to have two great opportunities with SHOWTIME in 2020, now it’s time to do my part and give the fans a show. I feel great and it’s going to show on Saturday night.

“My opponent is going to come with everything he has and so am I. I’m not making promises. I’m just going to show the world my God-given ability and all the work I’ve put in. Be sure to tune in to watch me and my brother Chris Colbert go to work!

“They say Mendez is a tricky guy and a guy with a known name. I don’t think he has that elite level experience. I know deep in my heart that I am better than him and on Saturday night, I will prove it.”

ARGENIS MENDEZ

“Hitchins is not ready for this fight. In my last four fights, I have fought fighters better than him. I think Juan Heraldez and Anthony Peterson were better fighters. I have watched him a lot and I don’t see anything special in him.

“During the pandemic I’ve been able to work on some things that I needed to. I stayed in shape the whole time. I don’t drink or smoke. I stay healthy. It wasn’t difficult to find sparring. I have some tall, fast sparring partners who helped me prepare.

“I want to dominate this young kid. I want to show you my skills and show that I am still here, still dangerous and I can still fight. I want to fight for a world title again.”

RONALD ELLIS

“Korobov is a slick boxer and he’s got a lot of experience, but this fight is about me getting punches in bunches. If I stay on him, it’s going to be hard for him to set up anything.

“It’s been a year since his shoulder injury, but he’s on the older side now so I doubt he’s fully recovered We’re going to test that.

“My next fight after this is going to be big. That’s what I am using this fight for. He is thinking he’s going to win and try to get a rematch with Jermall Charlo. I am using it for the same exact thing except it’s not a rematch, it will be my first time against the big guys. I think I deserve to be there and I think this fight is going to be my showcase.”

MATT KOROBOV

“It’s been exactly one year since my last fight. My shoulder feels good and my preparation went well. I am in the best shape I can be for this fight. I didn’t watch a lot of film, but I studied enough to set my preparations for Saturday night. I was more focused on the work that I needed to do in the gym to get myself ready.

“After a couple of months of healing, my manager tried to get the rematch with Chris Eubank Jr. but we got no answer and had to move on to get back in the ring. Ronald Ellis was the first name they brought up and I told them, ‘yes,’ right away. I want a rematch with [Chris] Eubank Jr. but I guess it will never happen. We’re on to a big fight against Ellis on Saturday.”

# # #

ABOUT COLBERT VS. ARBOLEDA
Colbert vs. Arboleda will see two of the top fighters in the 130-pound division meet when unbeaten interim WBA Super Featherweight Champion Chris “Primetime” Colbert faces the hard-hitting Jaime Arboleda in the main event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, December 12 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The tripleheader will see rising super lightweight phenom Richardson Hitchins taking on the toughest test of his young career as he faces former world champion Argenis Mendez in the 10-round co-main event and middleweight contenders Ronald Ellis and Matt Korobov
battle in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

NEW YORK – December 8, 2020 – Unbeaten interim WBA Super Featherweight Champion Chris “Primetime” Colbert will look to make a statement in his first nationally televised main event as he faces hard-hitting Jaime Arboleda live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, December 12 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.

“I always knew I was going to get here,” said Colbert. “It’s all God’s plan. This is just going to be another day for me and I’ll show everyone why I’m one of the best 130-pounders in the world.”

The 24-year-old Colbert has shot up the rankings of the 130-pound weight class and believes that a victory on Saturday night will lead to bigger opportunities in the jam-packed division.

“This is one of the most stacked divisions in boxing and I love competing in it,” said Colbert. “It’s great to be getting noticed in a division that has this much talent, and hopefully it’ll lead to me getting the big fights that I need. I don’t feel like there’s any certain fighter I’m targeting, but Gervonta Davis, Leo Santa Cruz and Jamel Herring would all be great fights for me. Beating them would help me become ‘the guy’ in the division.”

Colbert’s rise continued in his last fight, as he scored a 10th-round knockdown against former champion Jezreel Corrales on his way to a decision win while showing an impressive array of skills against a fighter determined to slow the action through holding and other veteran tricks.

“Against Corrales I learned not to rush,” said Colbert. “It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. I can’t just go rush in there and expect everyone to get knocked out. I had to take my time, do what I do best and stick to my game plan.”

In the 26-year-old Arboleda, Colbert will be presented with another rising 130-pound contender with his own sights set on emerging amongst the elite in the division. Arboleda has won five of his last six fights by stoppage and most recently dropped Jayson Velez on his way to a decision victory in February on SHOWTIME.

“Come December 12, I’m ready for whatever he brings,” said Colbert. “I expect him to bring pressure and ‘try’ to make me tired because that’s the only chance he has. He can’t outbox me. That’s not happening. But I love to bang inside and I’m ready for whatever he does. I hope he doesn’t run or clinch me because I’d love to get the knockout and get him out of there early.”

The Brooklyn-native Colbert has continued to work with his longtime coach Aureliano Sosa in his hometown through the difficulties of the pandemic. Those difficulties have led to Colbert sparring with larger welterweight and super welterweights in camp, which Colbert believes could help him with the power Arboleda will bring into the fight.

“Training camp has been going great for the most part,” said Colbert. “It’s just been a little hard finding sparring partners. But because it’s been difficult to find fighters at my weight I’ve actually been sparring with 147 and 154-pound fighters. I honestly love that because it prepares me better, and who’s to say that Arboleda won’t have power like them? I’m on weight now, though, and ready to put on a show on December 12.”

# # #

ABOUT COLBERT VS. ARBOLEDA
Colbert vs. Arboleda will see two of the top fighters in the 130-pound division meet when unbeaten interim WBA Super Featherweight Champion Chris “Primetime” Colbert faces the hard-hitting Jaime Arboleda in the main event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, December 12 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The tripleheader will see rising super lightweight phenom Richardson Hitchins taking on the toughest test of his young career as he faces former world champion Argenis Mendez in the 10-round co-main event and middleweight contenders Ronald Ellis and Matt Korobov battle in the 10-round telecast opener. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing. Hitchins vs. Mendez is co-promoted by Mayweather Promotions.

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

NEW YORK – November 20, 2020 – Two of the top fighters in the 130-pound division will meet when unbeaten interim WBA Super Featherweight Champion Chris “Primetime” Colbert faces the hard-hitting Jaime Arboleda in the main event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, December 12 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The tripleheader, originally scheduled for November 28, will see middleweight contenders Matt Korobov and Ronald Ellis battle in the 10-round co-main event and rising super lightweight phenom Richardson Hitchins taking on the toughest test of his young career as he faces former world champion Argenis Mendez in a 10-round telecast opener. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing. Hitchins vs. Mendez is co-promoted by Mayweather Promotions.

Nordine Oubaali vs. Nonito Donaire was originally scheduled to take place on December 12 but was postponed after Oubaali tested positive for COVID-19.

“This main event on December 12 will pit two of the 130-pound division’s most exciting rising talents against each other as the sublimely skilled Chris Colbert faces the powerful Jaime Arboleda in a can’t-miss showdown,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The co-main event will see two middleweight contenders in Matt Korobov and Ronald Ellis looking to show that they’re among the division’s elite, while the SHOWTIME opener features the exciting prospect Richardson Hitchins against the always tough Argenis Mendez in a big step up fight. These are three evenly-matched bouts that should make for nonstop drama on fight night.”

Representing his native Brooklyn, N.Y., Colbert (14-0, 5 KOs) has quickly shot up the 130-pound rankings, taking on high-level competition in his first 14 pro fights. The 24-year-old beat then-undefeated fighters Austin Dulay, Titus Williams and Antonio Dubose, all in his first eight fights as a professional. In 2019, Colbert added four more victories to his tally, including an explosive first-round knockout of veteran Miguel Beltran Jr. Most recently, Colbert won his interim title by dropping former super featherweight champion Jezreel Corrales on his way to a unanimous decision in their January 2020 clash.

“I’m super excited to be making my big stage debut in the main event,” said Colbert. “It’s been a long camp, but training is going great. I’m looking to put on a dominant performance, and I’m looking for the knockout if it’s there. If I can get it, that would be splendid. I know Jaime is going to come to fight. He wants the belt as bad as I want to keep the belt. It’s all going to come down to stamina, ring IQ and who has the greater will to win. I feel like I’m the guy for the job. There’s no way in hell I’m giving up my belt in my first defense.”

The 26-year-old Arboleda (16-1, 13 KOs) has amassed an impressive six-fight winning streak heading into the matchup against Colbert, with five of those victories coming inside of the distance. Born in Curundu, Panama, and now fighting out Miami, Fla. Arboleda has fought professionally since 2014 and scored knockouts over two then-undefeated opponents in 2019, Victor Betancourt and Jose Saant. In his last fight, Arboleda, who is ranked fourth in the 130-pound division by the WBA, bested former world title contender Jayson Velez by unanimous decision to win his first 12-round fight this February on SHOWTIME.

“Every boxer’s dream is to fight for a title and be victorious without leaving any doubt,” said Arboleda. “That is my plan for December 12. I’m having the best preparation of my entire career. I feel great, strong and fast like never before. I’m sure it will be a very exciting fight from the very first round.”

Korobov (28-3-1, 14 KOs) returns to action after losing his December 2019 clash against Chris Eubank Jr. when he suffered a shoulder injury that forced the fight to end in the second round.  Korobov, who notched 300 wins as a decorated amateur, came into that fight off of a majority draw against Immanuwel Aleem, after serving notice to the middleweight division that he would be a threat when he lost a hard-fought decision to undefeated middleweight champion Jermall Charlo in December. Born in Orotukan, Russia, and now living in St. Petersburg, Fla, Korobov was a late replacement and gave Charlo a tougher fight than many experts expected. Korobov had been riding a four-fight win streak before the Charlo fight, following his first professional defeat against Andy Lee in a 2014 middleweight title fight.

“I am excited to be back in a PBC event on SHOWTIME December 12,” said Korobov. “I have a difficult opponent, but I expect to win and prove that I am back and even better prepared. I must win against Ellis in order to get Jermall Charlo back in the ring. Of course, I believe I beat Charlo, but that is the past. Ellis is in my future, and I am coming to show I am still one of the best middleweights in the world.”

The 31-year-old Ellis (17-1-2, 11 KOs) will look to build off of his last outing, which saw him edge fellow contender Immanuwel Aleem by majority decision in December 2019. For Ellis, that fight got him back in the win column after his first career defeat, a majority decision against DeAndre Ware in March 2019. The Lynn, Mass.-native is the older brother of welterweight Rashidi Ellis, and had an impressive amateur career including a 2010 National Golden Gloves championship capped off by a victory over Terrell Gausha.

“It’s time for me to show out on December 12,” said Ellis. “Korobov had his chance against the top middleweights, and now it’s my time to take advantage of this opportunity and use a win over him to reach that level. We’re working hard in San Diego sparring with Canelo Alvarez so that everything is perfect and I’m at my best on fight night.”

A native of Brooklyn, Hitchins (11-0, 5 KOs) turned pro in 2017 after representing Haiti at the 2016 Olympics. The 23-year-old has flashed impressive skills as he’s amassed an unbeaten record in the pro ranks, which is the product of an extensive amateur career. Hitchins scored four victories in 2019, before debuting in 2020 with a decision victory over Nicholas DeLomba. In his first two 10-round bouts as a professional, the southpaw has scored decisive unanimous decisions.

“I don’t overlook any opponent, but I believe I have a better and sharper skillset than Mendez,” said Hitchins. “I have all of the intangibles to become a world champion. That’s often mistaken as being cocky, but it’s really just me believing in myself more than anyone else. I will take this fight seriously like I do any other fight and continue to do what I do in order to get one step closer to that title shot. Being in camp with Floyd Mayweather and Gervonta Davis, I’ve learned a lot. I feel like I have to one-up the competition. They really pushed me to be a better fighter.”

A former super featherweight champion, Mendez (25-5-3, 12 KOs) has a reputation for providing stiff challenges to the sport’s best and has proven to be a durable contender at 140-pounds. In 2019, Mendez fought to back-to-back draws against super lightweight contenders, first against Anthony Peterson in March and then against the unbeaten Juan Heraldez in May. Born in San Juan de La Maguana, Dominican Republic, Mendez now fights out of Yonkers, N.Y. and owns victories over Eddie Ramirez, Ivan Redkach and former titlist Miguel Vazquez. He has also gone toe-to-toe with former champions Rances Barthelemy and Robert Easter Jr.

“I’m facing a young prospect who’s hungry for success, but I’m hungrier today than I’ve ever been in my career and I have the experience to go along with it,” said Mendez. “I’m also extremely motivated for this fight, which isn’t good news for Hitchins. When fight time comes on December 12, you’ll witness an intelligent but more aggressive Argenis Mendez.”

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

Gary Russell Jr. defeated mandatory challenger Tugstsogt Nyambayar by unanimous decision to make the 5th defense of the WBC Featheweight title at the PPL Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

It was a tactical fight early, which played right into Russell’s hands as he was able to establish his speed advantage. Nyambayar was able to get into the fight in the middle rounds as his pressure was controlling the action. There were several nice exchanges that saw Russell be able get the better of some of those as his experience in championship fights was evident. Down the stretch each took turns winning rounds, but it was Russell’s ring generalship that won out in the end by scores of 118-110, 117-111 and 116-112.

Russell of Capitol Heights, Maryland is 31-1. Nyambayar is 11-1,

GARY RUSSELL JR.

“We put the work in every day in the gym. I’m a perfectionist. We knew we had a very tough opponent and I knew he was going to bring his physical best. He had everything to gain and nothing to lose. We just focused and showed I’m one of the longest reigning champions for a reason

“The difference was ring generalship, hand speed and boxing IQ. He only had 11 pro fights, of course he was an Olympic silver medalist, but he only had those 11 pro fights. I’ve had over 30 and I think my experience was enough to overcome and win this fight.

“We never take a day off. I’ll probably be back in the gym next week. We’ll keep our wheels turning and stay sharp.

“If we have to move up in weight for these top fighters to feel like they have an advantage and take the fight, then we’ll do it.”

“It was definitely the kind of fight that I expected. I knew that I was fighting a tough competitor. We knew he’d be strong, but I felt like my hand speed, my ring generalship and my boxing intellect would ultimately overcome in this fight and that’s what happened.

“I kept my jab in his face and in the back half of the fight, I told myself to hold my hands up, come forward and press the action. I wanted to dictate the action and that’s exactly what we did.

“Nyambayar was definitely one of the better fighters that I competed against. I feel like he would give any of the other 126-pound fighters trouble. If he stays focused, he’ll become a world champion.”

TUGSTSOGT NYAMBAYAR

“It wasn’t my night. He was the better man tonight. I didn’t do my work the way I was supposed to. He is a great champion who fought a great fight.

“I made a mistake by waiting for him during the fight. I’d love the rematch if I can get it.

“I want to thank the Mongolian fans for coming out tonight and I’m grateful to everyone in Mongolia.”

In a fight void of a lot action, Guillermo Rigondeaux won the WBA Bantamweight title with a 12-round splits decision over Liborio Solis

In round seven, Rigondeaux landed a hard left that put Solis on the seat of his pants. The fight saw mostly Solis following Rigondeuax without either guy doing much of anything.

Rigondeaux, 117.4 lbs of Cuba won by scores of 116-112 and 115-111. Solis won a card 115-111.

Rigondeaux is 20-1. Solis, 117.4 lbs of Venezuela is 30-6-1.

GUILLERMO RIGONDEAUX

“Our team is with me more than their own families. This isn’t just my victory, but it’s a victory for me whole team to get me this win at this age.

“Liborio is an excellent fighter, but I saw the opportunity to strike and scored the knockdown.

“Ronnie Shields is the real champion. The preparation that he gave me for this fight was incredible. Ronnie is one of the best.”

“Solis is an excellent boxer and he gave me a run for my money. It was a competitive fight, congratulations to him for keeping up in the ring, but everyone knows the better fighter got the win.

“When you get to my level, you just have to keep doing your work, and good things will come to you.

“Like I’ve showed everyone before, I can fight right in the middle of the ring. I tried that in the first round, but after that round, Ronnie Shields told me to show him some boxing and cut the ring off.

“I’m available for anyone who wants to get in the ring. Who do the fans want to see me fight? I’m ready for any fighter. Now that I’m at my weight, let’s go hunting.”

LIBORIO SOLIS

“I thought I won the fight. Going backwards is no way to win a vacant title. I put the majority of the pressure on him. I’m not going to argue with the judges, but I thought I did enough to win.

“The punch surprised me on the knockdown, but I wasn’t hurt. I was ready to fight immediately right after.

“I hurt him in the first round and that’s what caused him to run. I’d like a rematch because I thought I got the better of him tonight.”

In a sensational junior lightweight elimination bout, Jaime Arboleda held on to take a 12-round split decision over Jayson Vekez in a war.

The guys took turns wailing on each other. Arboleda was bleeding from the nose in round seven. Velez came on late and dropped Arboleda in the final frame. Arboleda was hurt several times in the final frame, but he was able to reach the final bell and win by scores of 114-113 twice and 115-112 for Velez.

Arboleda, 129.5 lbs of Panama is 16-1. Velez, 130 lbs of Caguas, PR is 29-6-1.

JAIME ARBOLEDA

“Jayson Velez is a great fighter and has a great style. He was trying to use that to break me down tonight. Velez has faced a lot of good fighters and I believe I belong with those fighters. I had him hurt badly a few times, but I just got a little bit ahead of myself and didn’t finish.

“My next fight is up to my team. I’m in line for the title, but we’ll see how things play out. I want to stay busy for sure this year.

“It was a clean shot on the knockdown but it happened because I wasn’t doing what I was supposed to stylistically and with my footwork. I was a bit tired, but I wasn’t too hurt. I went right back to fighting.”

JAYSON VELEZ

“It was a close fight, but I think I won the fight. It could have gone either way. I think I knocked him down twice but they didn’t count one of them. It’s okay. I showed that I’m a warrior like always. I have six losses now but I’ve never been knocked out. I’m still here, and I believe I’ll be world champion someday.”

ALLENTOWN, Pa. (January 6, 2020) – WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. will defend his 126-pound crown against unbeaten mandatory challenger Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar Saturday, February 8 live on SHOWTIME from PPL Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

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

The main event showdown will see Russell make the fifth defense of his title as he looks to again display the skills and speed that have made him one of the elite featherweight fighters in the world. He will be challenged by the 2012 Olympic silver medalist “King Tug”, who quickly rose up the rankings facing quality opposition throughout his 11-fight career.

“Gary Russell Jr. has proven himself to be at the very elite level of this sport and one of the best fighters in the featherweight division,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “His speed, power and overall skillset has made him a must-watch every time he steps into that ring. He’s going to get all he can handle from an undefeated fighter in ‘King Tug’ Nyambayar, who has the pedigree and power to make this a memorable fight. You won’t want to blink during this high octane showdown February 8 on SHOWTIME from PPL Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania.”

“The February 8 card is co-headlined by two of the most skilled boxers in the sport today,” said Stephen Espinoza, President Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Gary Russell Jr. – arguably the fastest hands in boxing – will be facing his toughest challenge as world champion against the aggressive power-puncher ‘King Tug’. And in the co-main event, Guillermo Rigondeaux, one of the best boxers on the planet since his days as an amateur in Cuba, moves down in weight to the bantamweight division for the first time in his pro career as he faces former world champion Liborio Solis with a world title at stake. Add in a compelling super featherweight eliminator and we have the makings of an action-packed tripleheader on February 8.”

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

The Capitol Heights, Maryland native Russell (30-1, 18 KOs) has held his WBC Featherweight Title since 2015 when he stopped multiple division champion Jhonny Gonzalez to emphatically capture the belt. The 31-year-old is part of one of boxing’s premier fighting families as he is trained by his father Gary Sr., and trains alongside his younger brothers, unbeaten super lightweight Gary Antuanne and undefeated bantamweight Antonio. Russell most recently stopped former champion Kiko Martinez in May on SHOWTIME after previously defeating then unbeaten challenger Joseph Diaz Jr in 2018 in a hometown defense.

“I’m forced to defend my title against another mandatory challenger and I’m going to show on February 8 why none of the other champions want to face me,” said Russell. “I’m the longest current reigning WBC champion but no one has stepped up to the challenge I present. I’m going to take care of business against a strong opponent and display all my skills like I always do.”

The 27-year-old Nyambayar (11-0, 9 KOs) represented his native Mongolia in the 2012 Olympics but now lives in the U.S. and is training out of Las Vegas. Nyambayar ascended up the featherweight rankings after his extensive amateur career with victories over then unbeaten Harmonito Dela Torre and former interim champion Oscar Escandon. Most recently he won his first 12-round decision by defeating former champion Claudio Marrero in January.

“This is going to be an exciting fight for everyone watching on February 8,” said Nyambayar. “Gary Russell Jr. is a great champion who is very talented, but he has the WBC belt and that’s what I want. I’m training hard to win this fight and I will be ready for anything that Russell brings to the ring.”

Rigondeaux (19-1, 13 KOs) will look to move down and capture a title in a second weight class in his SHOWTIME debut. Since turning professional in 2009 after one of the best amateur careers in history, Rigondeaux has showcased masterful technical skills that made him a unified 122-pound world champion and perennial member of the pound-for-pound list. A two-time Olympic gold medalist for his native Cuba, Rigondeaux made his name with victories over the likes of Nonito Donaire, Rico Ramos and Joseph Agbeko. Most recently, Rigondeaux scored an exciting eighth-round stoppage of former champion Julio Ceja in June.

Born in Venezuela and fighting out of Panama, Solís (30-5-1, 14 KOs) will make his U.S. debut on February 8 while riding a five-fight winning streak. Solís captured a super flyweight world title in 2013 amidst a 14-bout unbeaten run. He has lost by decision in his two previous attempts at 118-pound title, including a controversial loss to Jamie McDonnell, which he has bounced back from on his current win streak.

Arboleda (15-1, 13 KOs) has ripped off five straight victories by stoppage since he suffered the only loss of his career against Recky Dulay in 2017. The 25-year-old Arboleda from Curundu, Panama will be fighting in the U.S. for the third time in his career. He’s coming off a knockout victory over Victor Betancourt on August 24.

The 31-year-old Veléz (29-5-1, 21 KOs) has strung together three straight knockout victories since losing to Ryan Garcia in 2018. The Juncos, Puerto Rico resident is coming off a knockout victory over Hector Ruben Ambriz Suarez on July 27 and is looking for another championship opportunity. He came up short in his previous attempt when he fought to a draw against Evgeny Gradovich for the featherweight world title in 2014.

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Brandon Figueroa retained the WBA Interim Super Bantamweight title with a 4th round stoppage over Javier Chacon at The Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg, Texas.

Figueroa dominated the bout, and in round four landed a crushing left that sent Chacon to the canvas. Chacon tried to get up, but could not beat the count.

Figueroa, 122 lbs of Weslaco TX is 20-0 with 15 knockouts. Chacon, 120 1/4 lbs of Las Heras, ARG 29-5-1.

In a battle of undefeated super bantamweights, Stephen Fulton stopped Isaac Avelar in round six of their scheduled 10-round bout.

In round three, Avelar began to bleed over his right eye.

In round six, Fulton landed a crushing left to the body shot that sent Avelar down for the count at 1:26

Fulton, 124 lbs of Philadelphia is 17-0 with eight knockouts. Avelar, 123 3/4 lbs of Mexico is 16-1.

Omar Juarez remained undefeated by stopping Gino De La Paz in the 1st round of their scheduled four-round junior lightweight bout.

Juarez blasted De La Paz with some hard shots before landing a booming right that sent De La Paz crashing to the canvas, and the fight was stopped at 1:40.

Juarez. 140 3/4 lbs of Brownsville, TX is 5-0 with three knockouts. De La Paz, 139 3/4 lbs of McAllen, TX is 2-3-1.

Jaime Arboleda stopped Victor Betencourt in round one of their scheduled 10-round junior lightweight bout.

In round one, Arboledo dropped Betancourt with hard body shots. Arboleda finished the fight with an uppercut to the chin that sent Betencourt to a knee, and the fight was stopped at 2:32.

Arboleda, 130 lbs of Curuncu, PAN is 15-1 with 13 knockouts. Betancourt, 130 lbs of Mexico is 26-3.

EDINBURG, TEXAS (Aug. 21, 2019) – Unbeaten super lightweight prospect Omar “El Relámpago” Juarez will take on Gino de la Paz in a four or six round bout and hard-hitting Jaime “Jaimito” Arboleda will clash with Víctor Betancourt in a 10-round super featherweight match on FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, August 24 from Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg, Texas.

The two matches have been added to an already jam-packed card that is headlined by unbeaten Brandon Figueroa defending his interim WBA Super Bantamweight title against Javier Nicolas Chacon in a 12-round bout and rising star Stephen Fulton Jr. taking on Isaac Avelar in a 10-round super bantamweight match in the co-feature. FS1 PBC Fight Night begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Unbeaten super lightweight contender Darwin “Pay the Price” Price meets Aaron Herrera in a 10-round bout in the main event of FS2 PBC Fight Night Prelims, which serves as the lead in to the FS1 show. Super welterweight Raymond Guajardo of San Antonio, Texas takes on McArio del Castillo of Santa Monica, California in a four round bout and Victorville, California’s Sean “Sugar Rush” García will appear in a four-round featherweight attraction to open the broadcast at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Panterita Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased through bertogdenarena.com and/or AXS.com.

The 19-year-old Juarez (4-0, 2 KO) will be returning to fight near his hometown for the first time as a pro when he takes on De La Paz (2-2-1, 1 KO) in a four or six round super lightweight bout. Fighting out of Brownsville, Texas, Juarez is a highly decorated amateur who turned pro last September and has been on an active pace thus far. De La Paz of McAllen, Texas is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Luis Araujo Ramirez in his last fight on May 31.

Arboleda (14-1, 12 KOs) is a hard-hitting super featherweight with a good amateur background and rich boxing heritage. His father, uncle and two older brothers boxed. The 24-year-old Arboleda of Curundu, Panama is coming off a TKO victory over Jose Saant in his last fight on May 10, heading into the match against Mexicali, Mexico’s Betancourt (26-2, 13 KOs). Betancourt most recently scored knockout victory over Saul Banos on December. 22.

Born in St. Louis and fighting out of Houston, Price (14-0, 7 KOs) made his 2019 debut with a stoppage victory over Luis Eduardo Florez in April. The 29-year-old is unbeaten since turning pro in 2013 and will face off against Yucatan, Mexico’s Herrera (35-10-1, 24 KOs), who is coming off a TKO victory over Hector Barraza in his last fight on February 16.

The 19-year-old Guajardo (2-0, 1 KO) is building moment since making his pro debut on March 28 with an explosive knockout of Leonardo Mendez. He followed up with unanimous decision over Jaime Mendoza in his last fight on June 29 and will be taking on Del Castillo, who is making his pro debut.

Garcia (4-0, 2 KOs) is the younger brother of super featherweight contender Ryan Garcia. The 18-year-old Garcia is coming off a stoppage victory over Isaias Martin Cardona Gonzales on May 16.

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

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

Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of Panamanian junior lightweight Jaime “Jaimito” Arboleda to a promotional contract.

Arboleda (13-1, 11 KOs) has been fighting since he was six years old. As an amateur, he fought internationally, going 117-13 and winning the national title at 123 pounds in 2012. He turned professional in 2014.

Arboleda is from a fighting family, as his father, uncle and two older brothers all fought. Brother José was a world-ranked junior featherweight before being killed in a bus accident in 2009. Growing up in the notorious Curundu section of Panama City, Arboleda avoided the gang life by spending most of this time at the Pedro Rockero Alcazar Gym in Panama City, working with trainer Rigoberto Garibaldi.

The 24-year-old is known as a stylist with above-average power in his punches, especially the left hook. Blessed with a high ring intelligence, Arboleda has drawn early comparisons to his countryman and former world champion Ismael Laguna.

“I am very happy to sign with Sampson Boxing,” said Arboleda. “Panamanians like (former two-time world champion) Roberto Vasquez have signed with him and had great careers. Sampson is the right person to move me forward. I trust him and know that he will help me get where I want to be.”

Arboleda also recently signed with Vasquez’s former manager, Carlos Gonzalez, who says the young prospect now has the team in place to make things happen.

“Jaimito wants nothing more than to give his family a better life through boxing and now he has the people who can help him do it. We already have him scheduled to fight twice in the coming months. He is very enthusiastic to become someone in life.”

Promoter Lewkowicz says he’s excited to work with another promising Panamanian after his successful runs with world champions like Vasquez, Anselmo Moreno and Celestino Caballero.

“Panama has produced many great fighters and with some help Jaime can become another one,” said Lewkowicz. “Carlos and I have a plan set out for him and we expect he will become a recognized contender in the next year or two. He works very hard in the gym to reach his goals.”

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About Sampson Boxing

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