Jalil Hackett will face Jose Roman in a rematch for the WBA Continental North America Welterweight title on Saturday March 15 at Caribe Royale in Orlando, live worldwide on DAZN, as further additions to the undercard are made where Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams headlines against Patrice Volny, Edgar Berlanga returns to action and Team USA Olympic medalist Omari Jones makes his professional debut.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COM

Roman and Hackett met in Puerto Rico in December, where Roman edged Hackett our via a razor-thin split decision to take the title. Roman (14-1 6 KOs) hosted Hackett (9-1 7 KOs) at home in their first meeting and now the Puerto Rican steps through the ropes in America for the fifth time in his career for the rematch, as 21 year old starlet Hackett looks to gain immediate revenge and claim his title back.

“Camp has been amazing for this fight and I’m more ready than ever,” said Roman. “They made a big mistake thinking  I was an ‘average fighter’. I was a multi National Champion that represented Puerto Rico all over the world, and I was only one fight away from being an Olympian in 2016! The first time was not a stroke of luck and on March 15, I will prove I am the better fighter. I look forward to bigger and better opportunities with God’s blessings when I beat him again.”

“On March 15, I not only regain my belt but I reestablish myself as one of the best young boxers in the sport,” said Hackett.

Another title fight added to the card sees Jamaine Ortiz defend his WBA Continental USA Super-Lightweight title against Yomar Alamo. Ortiz (18-2-1 9 KOs) landed the strap at Caribe Royale in November with an impressive fourth round stoppage win over Cristian Mino, his first fight back in action after taking on Teofimo Lopez for the WBO World title in Las Vegas in February. Puerto Rico’s Alamo (22-3-1 13 KOs) continues to test fighters at 140lbs, and will add Ortiz to the CV that features recent battles with IBF king Richardson Hitchins, and the man he beat to win the title, Liam Paro.

“I’m thrilled to be kicking off my 2025 fight journey against Yomar Alamo, who is a dangerous fighter,” said Ortiz. “It’s always an honor to step into the ring, and I couldn’t be more excited to showcase my skills for my fans on DAZN.

“The Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando will be lit on fight night, and I’m ready to bring the heat. This year, I’m focused and hungry for success, and March 15 is just the beginning of what’s to come!”

“This is a great opportunity for my career,” said Alamo. “Ortiz is a great fighter. We’re prepared for whatever he brings. This will be a great victory for me. It’s Magic time!”

Further additions to the card announced today sees Puerto Rican teen talent Carlos De Leon (3-0 2 KOs) fight in the paid ranks for the fourth time over four rounds at Super-Featherweight, and ‘Pretty Boy’ Pedro Valdez (8-0 7 KOs) meet Mauro Maximiliano Godoy (37-10-1 18 KOs) over eight rounds at Welterweight.
 
Those undercard additions add to a big night in the Sunshine State, where Middleweight contender ‘Ammo’ Williams looks to continue his quest to get back into the mix for major battles. Williams (17-1 12 KOs) bounced back with a 12th KO win in the paid ranks in Philadelphia in November after a brave showing against hotly-tipped Briton Hamzah Sheeraz in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in June.

‘Ammo’ is handily ranked at #6 with the WBC, #7 with the WBA and #9 with the IBF, and the Texan southpaw will be looking for an impressive victory to take a big step towards securing more massive fights at 160lbs.

Volny (19-1 13 KOs) will have other ideas though, and the Canadian will be full of confidence as he enters the bout on the back of a KO win over fellow countryman and former World title challenger Steven Butler in June in his Montreal hometown.
 
Jones added a bronze medal from the Paris 2024 games to the silver medal he won at the 2021 World Championships in Belgrade, Serbia, and after a glittering amateur career, the Orlando starlet, who graduated from Valencia College in Orlando with an Associate Degree in General Studies with business focus in December, is excited to be making his pro debut right on his own doorstep, and Italian Alessio Mastronunzio (14-5 4 KOs) will be the first man to test Jones in the pro ring.
 
Berlanga (22-1 17 KOs) is back and the Puerto Rican-New Yorker will be looking to build on his spirited display against pound-for-pound legend Canelo Alvarez as he takes on Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz (20-0-1 16 KOs). ‘The Chosen One’ went the distance with the Mexican superstar in Las Vegas in September and the 27 year old will be eager to move into position to get a second shot at World title honors, and can reclaim the WBO NABO Super-Middleweight title he previously held over ten rounds against his fellow Puerto Rican.

Jalil Hackett believes he can become a World champion in 2025 – and can take a big step towards achieving that goal with a big win over Jose Roman Vazquez tomorrow night at Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW

Hackett (9-0 7 KOs) passed his first big step up with flying colors in Philadelphia in July, outpointing Peter Dobson over ten rounds.

Tomorrow night, the 21 year old boxes over the ten round distance for the second time against Vazquez (13-1 6 KOs), the Puerto Rican who will hope a vociferous home crowd can roar him to victory.

But for Hackett, victory in hostile territory is just another box to tick as he targets World title action so early in his career, and even called the name of WBO champion Brian Norman as a man he wants to take the title from.

“World Title contention is the aim for the next 12 months,” said Hackett. A lot of guys talk it, but I believe in it. I have to keep moving up in the rankings in the next few fights.

“Brian Norman said my name, he’s a World Champion and that’s my goal. He said I’m on his hit list well guess what, he’s on my hit list too. I believe I can beat him now, but we have work to do this Saturday first. 

“I feel like I’m made for this. I don’t need to wait until I’ve had 20 or 30 fights to see if I’m good enough. It’s all about the challenge, I set myself high personal goals – The main goal is to become World Champion as quick as possible. 

“I’ve studied Vazquez. Based on what I’ve seen, he’ll come out swinging which suits me. It’ll be an action-packed night on Saturday, it can go early. I need to make a statement in every fight.”

Hackett’s clash with Vazquez is part of a big night of action in Puerto Rico, where Liam Paro defends his IBF World Junior Welterweight title against Richardson Hitchins.

The co-feature is an all-Puerto Rican clash between Henry Lebron (19-0 10 KOs) and Christopher Diaz (29-5 19 KOs) as Lebron returns to his homeland for the first time in five years and does so in the biggest night of his career, as the #4 in the IBF looks to press his claims for World title action in 2025 with a big win over a domestic rival and pick up the vacant IBF Latino and WBO NABO titles in the process. Diaz sits pretty at #7 in the WBA, has already tasted World title action and is hungry to do so again, and ‘Pitufo’ puts his WBA Continental Latin America title on the line in a pivotal clash for the immediate futures of both.

Puerto Rican Olympian Yankiel Rivera will take on Angel Gonzalez for the vacant WBC Silver, WBA Continental Americas and WBO Intercontinental Flyweight titles.

Rivera (6-0 2 KOs) is handily placed in the rankings at #3 with the WBA, #9 with the WBC and #11 with the WBO, and fights at home for the second time in 2024 having seen off the experienced Victor Sandoval over ten rounds in June in Manati, defending the WBA strap and adding the WBO belt.

The 27 year old will be looking to rubber stamp his World title credentials for a shot in 2025, but Gonzalez (14-0 7 KOs) will be out to spoil those plans in the biggest fight of his career. The 31 year old with Puerto Rican roots landed the NABF title at 112lbs in June in Connecticut, and can catapult himself into the World title mix with victory in December.

Marc Castro and Stephanie Pineiro have confirmed opponents for the night, with Castro (13-0 8 KOs) tackling Agustin Quintana (20-1-2 13 KOs) over ten rounds at Lightweight, and Pineiro (7-0 2 KOs) meeting Ogleidis Suarez (30-5-1 14 KOs) over eight rounds Welterweight.

Puerto Rico’s Juan Zayas (10-0-1 8 KOs) takes on Dominican Geraldo Valdez (16-2 11 KOs) over eight rounds at Bantamweight and Matchroom’s Puerto Rican talent William Ortiz (6-0 4 KOs) faces fellow unbeaten Puerto Rican Lionell Colon (6-0 3 KOs) over eight rounds at Super-Lightweight.

PHILADELPHIA-–Jaron “Boots” Ennis made a happy homecoming as he stopped gritty David Avanesyan after round five to retain the IBF Welterweight title before a very impressive crowd of 14,119 fans at Wells Fargo Center.

Ennis showed off his immense natural ability by landing some swift and powerful combinations. Ennis landed some serious body shots and slowly started to break down Avanestyan. Avanesyan touched up Ennis by landing some shots as he stood in the pocket against the undefeated champion.

In round five, Avanesyan was having his best round UNTIL, a right hook caught the challenger on the side of the head and the Armenian was sent to the canvas. Ennis continued to land hard combinations and battered Avanesyan at the end of the frame.

In the corner, it was determined that Avanesyan had suffered enough of a beating and the fight was halted.

Ennis, 146.4 lbs is 32-0 with 28 knockouts. Avanesyan, 147 lbs of Newark, ENG is 30-5-1.

Jalil Hackett Decisions Peter Dobson

Jalil Hackett remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Peter Dobson in a welterweight clash.

Dobson controlled the action as he landed some solid combinations. Dobson stood in tough and was able to make the fight closer down the stretch as it was too little. too late as Hackett won by scores of 97-93 twice and 96-94.

Hackett landed 200 of 700 punches. Dobson was 127 of 447.

Hackett, 146.4 lbs of Washington, DC is 9-0. Dobson, 146.6 lbs of Bronx, NY is 16-2.

Skye Nicolson Retains Featherweight Title with Decision over Vargas

Skye Nicolson retained the WBC Featherweight title as she boxed her way to an easy 10-round unanimous decision over Dyana Vargas.

Nicolson boxed and moved perfectly as she opened the fight up by featuring a stiff jab. In the middle rounds Nicolson started landing at will with her straight left. Nicolson was very crafty with her feet as she was always a couple of steps ahead both offensively and defensively for Vargas.

Nicolson landed 135 of 329 punches. Vargas was 28 if 248.

Nicolson, 125.6 lbs of Queensland, AUS won by scores of 100-90 on all cards and is now 11-0. Vargas, 125.6 lbs of The Dominican Republic is 19-2.

Khalil Coe Stops Ritter in 2

Khalil Coe remained undefeated with a two round destruction of Kwame Ritter in their 10-round light heavyweight bout.

In round two, Coe hurt Ritter with a hard left hook. Coe followed the up and landed huge left hook that put Ritter on the canvas. Ritter was hurt and Coe pounced on him by landing hard shots until a right hand knocked Ritter along the ropes and the fight was stopped at 1:59.

Coe, 174 lbs of Jersey City, NJ is 9-0-1 with seven knockouts. Ritter, 173 lb of Baltimore is 11-2.

Christopher Diaz stopped Derlyn Hernandez in round two of their eight-round super featherweight bout.

Diaz, 131.4 lbs of Puerto Rico is 29-4 with 19 knockouts. Hernandez, 131.4 lbs of the Dominican Republic is 12-2-1.

Christian Carto stopped former world title challenger Carlos Buitragp after round three of their eight-round super bantamweight bout.

In round three, Carto scored a knockdown when he landed a right in the corner.. Carto continued to pound away on Buitragp. The corner pulled Buitago out of the fight following the round.

Carto, 124.4 lbs of Philadelphia is 24-1 with 16 knockouts. Buitrago, 125.8 lbs of Managua, NIC is 38-14-1.

Ismail Muhammad staved off an early knockdown and scored one of his own as he won a six-round unanimous decision over Frank Brown in a super lightweight bout.

In round one, Muhammad walked into a perfect right from Brown that put him on the canvas. Later in the round, Brown was cut over his right eye that may have come from a clash of heads during the knockdown punch.

In round four, Muhammad dropped Brown with a right to the top of the head.

Muhammad, 144 lbs of Philadelphia won on two cards by 58-54 scores and 57-55 and is now 5-0. Brown, 144.2 lbs of San Antonio is 3-5-2.

Dennis Thompson made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Fernando Valdez in a bantamweight bout.

Thompson, 116.6 lbs of of Philadelphia battered Valdes and won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 1-0. Valdes, 119.2 lbs of Salta, ARG is 1-8.

Jalil Hackett will face Peter Dobson in his Matchroom debut at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia on Saturday July 13, live worldwide on DAZN – with Skye Nicolson making the maiden defense of her WBC World Featherweight title against Dyana Vargas as the undercard is announced for Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis’ homecoming IBF World Welterweight title defense against Cody Crowley.

OVER 10,000 TICKETS HAVE BEEN SOLD FOR BOOTS-CROWLEY – TICKET ARE ON SALE AT TICKETMASTER.COM

Hackett (8-0 7 KOs) penned a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom at the end of May, and his first actin with his new promoter pitches him in deep waters in just his ninth pro fight and meets Dobson over ten rounds for the WBA Continental North America Welterweight title.

Dobson (16-1 9 KOs) enters the fight having taken British star Conor Benn the distance in Las Vegas in February, and the New Yorker will be looking to bounce back from his first defeat by halting the progress of the hotly-tipped 21 year old tyro.

“I’m so happy to kick off my deal with Matchroom with such a big fight,” said Hackett. “Eddie and Matchroom have a plan for my development that I’m really excited by and that starts on July 13 against Dobson. He took Conor Benn the distance in a good fight, but I’m going to prove that I am ready for this step-up and much more.

“It’s also great to be on Boots’ card in Philadelphia. I’ve done great work with Boots already and I know that tickets for this show have been flying, so I can’t wait to showcase my skills in front of a big crowd, live on DAZN, and then watch Boots put on a show.”

“He’s a little boy and I’m going to beat his ass like his father used to,” said Dobson. “He’s trying to use me as a stepping-stone and he’s making a terrible mistake. There are levels to this and he’s nowhere near mine – he’s going to find that out in brutal fashion come July 13.”

Nicolson (10-0 1 KO) won her WBC crown at a canter in her first World title fight in February in Las Vegas, pitching a shut-out on two of the cards over Dane Sarah Mahfoud. For her first defense, the Australian fights in the States for the fifth time in the paid ranks and puts her belt on the line againstVargas(18-1 12 KOs), the Dominican who fights outside her homeland for the first time and in her maiden World title tilt.

“I’m excited to defend my WBC World title on this great card in Philadelphia,” said Nicolson. “Although it’s just my 11th fight, I truly believe I am the best Featherweight in the World.

“I want to find a way to capture the other belts, my dream is to become undisputed and I’m willing to take whatever challenges necessary to achieve that. I look forward to making a statement on July 13, live on DAZN.”

“Ever since I started boxing this was my dream to fight for a World title, it is a dream come true and I’m taking advantage of this opportunity,” said Vargas.

“I thank Matchroom for this chance and the champion better be ready because the beast from the Dominican Republic is coming for her.”

Khalil Coe will make the short journey from New Jersey to Philadelphia to fight for his first title, as he meets Manuel Gallegos over ten rounds for the USWBC Light-Heavyweight strap. Coe (8-0-1 6 KOs) has looked ferocious in his recent fights, ending his last four outings inside the distance, and will look to pick up his first belt against Mexican Gallegos (20-2-1 17 KOs) who moves up to 175lbs after taking on Super-Middleweight sensation Diego Pacheco last time out in Los Angeles in July.

“I am excited to be back in a big step-up fight against Gallegos on the ‘Boots’ Ennis undercard,” said Coe. “Philadelphia will almost be like hometown fight for me. It’s right down the turnpike so I expect a lot of my fans to show up and watch me dominate again and I’m looking for a highlight reel knockout.

“This is one step closer to me fighting for a World championship, which is my ultimate goal. I feel like I’m the next big star in the Light-Heavyweight division and I’ll be looking to prove that on July 13.”

“I’m anxious to fight again on a Matchroom show on a new division and for a title,” said Gallegos. “I feel stronger and won’t waste this opportunity, let’s go”

An all-Puerto Rican affair is also announced today for the WBA Continental Latin America Super-Featherweight title between Henry Lebron and Christopher Diaz. Lebron (19-0 10 KOs) has signed a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom and will look to claim his first title against two-time World title challenger Diaz (28-4 18 KOs).

“I am very excited to be entering this new chapter of my career with Matchroom Boxing,” said Lebron. “I feel that Matchroom is going to provide me with the path towards challenging and winning my first world title as a Super-Featherweight.

“I want to thank Eddie Hearn and my manager Peter Kahn for working together to get this deal done. I can’t wait to enter the ring on July 13 in Philadelphia and making my debut on DAZN.”

“Facing an undefeated fighter and one of the best, or the best, prospects in Puerto Rico like Henry Lebron is the kind of challenge that brings passion and determination to my mind,” said Diaz.

“This fight is not just about getting a victory. It’s about representing Puerto Rico and proving that I belong among the best. I’m ready to give it my all in the ring and show the world that I’m built for moments like this. Puerto Rico vs. Puerto Rico, Let’s go!”

Elsewhere on the card, Philadelphia duo Christian Carto (22-1 15 KOs) and Boots Promotions’ Ismail Muhammad (4-0 3 KOs) fight over eight rounds at Super-Bantamweight and six rounds at Welterweight respectively, while there’s a pro debut for another Philly native, as Dennis Thompson steps through the ropes in the paid ranks for the first time over four rounds at Bantamweight, with all three fighters to be matched soon.

Jalil ‘Major’ Hackett has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom.

Hackett (8-0 7 KOs) recorded his fifth straight win inside the distance in his last fight in December, picking up his first title as he stopped Adrian Gutierrez inside three rounds to claim the WBC Youth Silver Welterweight title in Houston, Texas.

That was a seventh TKO for the precocious 21 year old in his eight wins since turning pro in June 2021, having had a glittering amateur career that saw him gather 11 national titles and multiple international tournament wins, and now the rising star from Washington DC will look to move to the next level with Hearn and Matchroom, with his first fight under the promotional banner to be announced next week.

“I’m so happy to have signed with the biggest promoters in the game,” said Hackett. “Eddie and Matchroom have a plan for my development that I’m really excited by, and I cannot wait to get back in the ring.

“My next fight will be announced next week and it’s a really good step up, the type of tests that I want at this stage of my career, where I am looking to develop but also prove that I am the real deal.”

“Jalil is a fantastic young talent,” said Hearn. “Building the stars of the future is something that we love to do at Matchroom, and in Jalil, we have a real gem.

“So many of America’s best fighters speak very highly of their work with him in the gym, and he’s got an old head on young shoulders, which bodes well for his short and long-term development in the sport. We’re really excited to get the next phase of his journey moving, and in his first fight with us to be announced next week, the training wheels are off – it is an excellent test on a very big stage.”

Gervonta Davis stopped Ryan Garcia in round seven of their 12-round catchweight bout before a capacity crowd of 20, 842 fans at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Garcia hurt Davis with an overhand right. Garcia continued touching Davis until a perfect counter left from Davis landed squarly on the jaw of Garcia that sent him to the deck.

In round seven, Davis landed a left hand to the ribs which made Garcia take two steps back and sink to a knee for the 10-count at 1:34.

Davis, 135.3 lbs of Baltimore is 29-0 with 27 knockouts, Garcia, 135.5 lbs of Los Angeles is 23-1.

Gervonta Davis

“Everything about this was exciting. I was excited to be a part of this event. I remember coming up in the Golden Gloves and seeing Floyd fight at the MGM. It was crazy. I actually just saw Rihanna perform at the Super Bowl, and I thought that’s going to be me one day. And we’re here.

“The reality definitely matches the dream. But the job is never done until I retire so I’m going to keep my head down, stay humble and continue to work.

“Me predicting the 7^th round KO was me just trying to get in his head. I really don’t know until I actually get in there with my opponent, but once I got in there with him I felt like skill-wise, it all matched.

“The first knockdown was just him not knowing his placement and I knew that I was the smaller guy, and my coach was telling me in camp that he’s going to come up with his head up, so just shoot over the top.

“I didn’t think that body shot would end it, but I saw his facial expression and that’s what made me take it to him. It was a good shot, for sure. I thought he was going to get up but I like to play mind games, so when he was looking at me, I was looking at him trying to tell him, ‘Get up!’. And he just shook his head, no.

“I’m definitely the face of boxing. Absolutely!”

Ryan Garcia

“I’m good. ‘Tank’ is a great fighter. I take my hat off to him. I know we talked a lot of trash leading into the fight, but he knows what it is. It’s all love at the end of the day. I was honored to be in the ring with a great fighter and I respect him a lot. You know how the business goes. But I want to say to Tank, you’re a good man.

“He just caught me with a good shot. I don’t want to make any excuses in here. He caught me with a good shot and I just couldn’t recover and that’s it. He caught me with a good body shot, snuck under me and caught me good.

“I couldn’t breathe. I was going to get back up, but I just couldn’t get up.

“I think I should have pressured him a little harder near the ropes. I was giving him a little bit too much respect and I think that was my downfall. I think I gave him a little too much respect in the ring.”

Morrell Destroys Falcao in 1; Retains WBA Super Middleweight Title

David Morrell Jr. retained the WBA Super Middleweight title with a first round destruction of Yamaguchi Falcao.

Morrell came out blistering as he could not miss with his right hooks and uppercuts. Morrell sent Falcao down with a hard uppercut. Morrell finished off Falcao with a devastating right hook that plummeted him face-first and he was out for several minutes before he could get to his feet. The time was 2:22.

Morrell, 167.8 lbs of Santa Clara, Cuba is 9-0 with eight knockouts. Falcao, 166.4 lbs of Espirito Santo, BRA is 24-2-1.

David Morrell, Jr.

“I’m so excited. This was a big moment and a big night for me, so a knockout in the first round is incredible. But this is boxing. First round, second round, I’m not worried when the knockout comes but I got it in the first round.

“I think this is the best moment of my career tonight. It was a big event and a big name. I want to fight the best in the division.

“Much respect to Yamaguchi. I’m glad he’s okay. He’s a good guy and a good boxer.

“David Benavidez is next. Where is he? I want to fight Benavidez, man. He’s next, 100 percent. I don’t want any other guys at 168 pounds. Just Benavidez. I respect Benavidez and his team, but inside the ring, I don’t respect nothing.”

Melikuziev Gets Even With Rosado; Wins Unanimous Decision

Bektemir Melikuziev evened the score with Gabriel Rosado and took a 10-round unanimous decision in a super middleweight contest.

Melikuziev laded 153 of 354 punches. Rosado was just 55 of 332.

Melikuziev, 167.3 lbs of Uzbekistan won by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is 12-1. Rosado, 167.3 lbs of Los Angeles via Philadelphia is 26-17-1

Bektemir Melikuziev

“This was the fight that I wanted. This is the fight that I felt like I made a mistake in the first one, and I had this opportunity for revenge on such a big card. It’s a pleasure for me.

“In the first fight against Rosado, I underestimated my opponent. This time, we put the work in during camp. We went through everything. This time, the goal was to showcase my skills, box and punish him as much as possible too.”

Gabriel Rosado

“I tried, but I was a step behind. Father Time, eighteen years as a pro, but I was game. I walked to him, I boxed him, I tried everything but I was a step too slow.

“I was a split-second behind. He’s fresh, he’s young and I’m happy for him. I knocked him out bad in the first fight and he made adjustments.

“I don’t make any excuses. I was ready. Now it’s time to wrap it up and give my knowledge to younger fighters with management and training. I want to share my experience with them, and maybe do some more commentating.”

”

Elijah Garcia Decisions Kevin Salgado

19 year-old Elijah Garcia remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Kevin Salgado in a welterweight bout.

In round seven, Salgado was deducted a point for a low blow.

Garcia landed 194 of 621 punches. Salgado was 178 of 551.

Garcia, 159.2 lbs of Phoenix, AZ won by scores of 97-92 twice and 95-94 and is now 15-0. Salgado, 159.2 lbs of Mexico City is 15-2-1.

Elijah Garcia

“I was standing a little too still trying to fight on the inside. Salgado is a tough opponent. He was real tough, real strong and I just had to move and box a little bit. Other than that, it was a good, hard 10 rounds. I give my opponent 100 percent props.

“I stayed in shape one hundred percent after my last fight. Back-to-back camps, and not only that, but I made boxing a lifestyle. I’m always in the gym, eating good and doing the best I can to stay healthy.

“I just have to continue getting better in the gym every single day. That’s what it’s about. I learned a lot today. It was my first time going past six rounds and I got the full 10. The fights like this will get me closer to a world title.

“It feels great to get this win on a big stage. I feel like I’m getting better with each fight. I know I have a long way to go, but I like where I’m at. I’m hoping to get right back in the ring soon.”

Kevin Salgado

“I felt like I won. By a small margin, but I should have won.

“I feel really sad because I felt like this was a really good fight. The referee kept getting in my way. I got a point deducted from me but he didn’t say anything when Garcia hit me in the back of the head. It’s all just very sad.

“It felt like swimming against the current. Mexicans always come to fight against everyone and everything: The judges, the opponent, the refs, the home fans. None of that got in my way to keep moving toward.

“I wish I had had more time to prepare. The three weeks’ notice I got didn’t allow me to be as sharp as I wanted or needed to be.

“I’m still here and I will be a world champion someday. I can promise you that.”

Czerkaszyn Stops Espadas in 9

Fiodor Czerkaszyan stopped Elias Espadas in round nine of a 10-round middleweight bout.

Czerkasyn beat up Esoadas throughout and even turned it up in rounds eight and nine, and the bout was stopped at 2:07.

Czerkasyn, 159.1 lbs of Warsaw, POL is 22-0 with 14 knockouts. Espadas, 158.9 lbs of Merida, MEX is 22-6.

Mielnicki Jr. Destroys Charles in 4

Vito Mielnicki Jr. took out Jose Sanchez Charles in round four of their 10-round super welterweight bout.

At the end of round three, Mielnicki dropped Charles with a long right to the head. Seconds later, it was a short, quick right that put Charles down for a second time. In round three, Mielnicki cracked Charles with a counter right to the jaw that sent him sprawlimg down to the canvas and the bout was stopped at 33 seconds.

Mielnicki, 153.1 lbs of Roseland, NJ is 15-1 with 10 knockouts. Charles, 153.6 lbs of Reynosa, MEX is 20-4-1.

Lorenzo Simpson remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Pachino Hill in a middleweight bout.

In round six, Hill began to bleed from the nose.

Simpson, 161.6 lbs of Baltimore won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is 13-0. Hill, 163.3 lbs of Davenport, IA is 8-2-1.

Good looking Floyd Schofield remained undefeated with a second round destruction of Valentin Leon Jr. in a scheduled 10-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Schofield put Leon on the canvas with a straight left. In round two, Schofield dropped Leon face-first wit a perfect left at 1:51.

Schofield. 134.7 lbs of Austin, TX is 14-0 with 11 knockouts. Leon, 134 lbs of Culican, MEX is 23-2-2.

Jalil Hackett remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over Jason Phillips in a scheduled four-round super welterweight bout.

In round three, Hackett dropped Phillips with a perfect left hook to the body. Seconds later, it was another left hook that ended Phillips afternoon at 2:20.

Hackett, 153.9 lbs of Washington, DC is now 6-0 with five knockouts. Phillips, 153.5 lbs of Davenport, IA is 3-4-2.

Cuttino Oliver stopped Roberto Cantu Pena in round two of a scheduled four-round bantamweight fight.

In round one, Oliver dropped Pena Twice and the fight was stopped 1:07 into round two.

Oliver, 115.6 lbs of Baltimore is now 3-0 with two knockouts. Pena of Mexico is 3-3.

In a fight that started slow, Gervonta Davis needed just a a few seconds in round eight to land two hard shots to the jaw of Hector Luis Garcia and get a stoppage win after Garcia could not come out for round nine in front of a sold out crowd of 19, 731 Capital One Arena in Washington, DC.

When the fight got going, Garcia fought well by mixing in body shots to offset Davis trying to land power shots from the outside. The fight was on even terms as it headed into the eighth round. Even in round eight, Garcia began the stanza well by working the body. Late in the round, Davis landed two flush lefts that hurt Garcia. When Garcia got to the corner, he did not come out for round nine and the fight was officially stopped at 13 seconds.

Davis, 134 lbs of Baltimore will now take on Ryan Garcia, presumably on April 15th with a record of 28-0 with 26 knockouts. Garcia, 134 lbs of the Dominican Republic is 16-1.

Gervonta Davis

“A little surprised (he didn’t come out). But I knew he was hurt bad but he’s a fighter and he didn’t want to show it. I knew he was hurt though.

“I feel as though – I have stuff to work on. Everything. I’m a fighter and I’m not retired so I’m always willing to learn.

“I wasn’t throwing a lot of shots (in the beginning) because I was trying to beat him mentally. I was trying to trick him with my hands and my eyes and things like that because he’s a tough fighter. I had to bait him.

“His southpaw style bothered me a little bit because I don’t fight a lot of southpaws but it’s okay; it’s a part of the game.

“God willing I’m ready for the fight (with Ryan Garcia). It’s scheduled for April. I’m here. He’s been training. He’s been talking. And let’s see who’s really about that.

“On my end I’m ready. I’ll be in the gym Monday. Well, not Monday. I’ll probably take a week off but I’ll be back for sure soon.

“I have to bring my people in close and listen to my close ones, listen to Al Haymon and just stay focused. There’s a lot of bumps in the road but if we stay focused together – that’s how I’ll (maintain) longevity in the sport.”

Hector Luis Garcia

“When I got the shot to my head in the final round, that’s when I couldn’t see from my eye. I didn’t know where I was when he hit me with that shot. My vision is back but my head still hurts. I couldn’t see from my right eye. It was going well up until that point. I was picking my shots.”

Ennis Decisions Chukhadzhian to Win IBF Interim Welterweight Title

Jaron Ennis went the distance for the first time in 20 fights, but won the IBF Interim Welterweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over slippery Karen Chukhadzhian.

Ennis pressed the action while Chukhadzhian danced around the outside, and only coming in sporadically. Ennis landed the majority of punches and won by scores of 120-108 on all cards. Ennis landed 203 of 592 punches; Chukhadzhian was 97 of 573

Ennis, 145.5 lbs of Philadelphia is 30-0. Chukhadhian, 146.25 lbs of Kiev, UKR is 21-2.

Jaron Ennis

“We come here to dominate. I feel like I could have thrown more punches. I should stop that guy and that’s on me. I wanted him to engage but we did what we could. 

“I learned to just take my time and to not rush anything. I’m glad I went 12 rounds. It felt great. I felt I was in the best shape. I just needed to throw a little more punches. I should have got him out of there.

“He ran a lot. Hats off to him since a lot of guys didn’t want to fight me. So shout out to him for coming here and taking this fight.

“Everyone knows that I want Errol Spence and the winner of Virgil Ortiz and (Eimantas) Stanionis. You know – all the top guys. Let’s get it, you know?

“I’ll wait until the time is right and (Spence) is ready.”

Roiman Villa Scores Two Late Knockdowns to win Majority Decision over Rashidi Ellis

Roiman Villa needed all 36 minutes to score a 12-round majority decision over previously undefeated Rashidi Ellis in an IBF Welterweight Elimination bout

It was a fight that Ellis controlled early with his jab. Villa was applying pressure. Villa was slowing gaining momentum in the fight when in round 12, Villa decked Ellis with a vicious left hook to the jaw. Villa continued landing hard shots to Ellis, who at this point was backtracking and trying to land shots while going backwards. In the final seconds, Villa dropped Ellis again with a hard right hand.

Ellis landed 268 of 604 punches. The knockdowns were the difference as Villa was just 114 of 631.

Villa, 146.75 of Venezuela won by scores of 114-112 twice and 113-113 to raise his mark to 26-1. Ellis, 146.25 of Lynn, MA is 24-1.

Roiman Villa

“First of all, thank God for this victory. Second of all, he was a tough fighter. He moved a lot. He does hit hard. The first couple rounds I was a little tight but then I got loose.

“I was on top of him from the first round. I know that fighters such as him who are quick sooner or later will get a little tired and that’s what I took advantage of.

“My corner told me to knock him down (in the 12^th round). I couldn’t do it on the first try but I kept going.

“I thought he just fell on the last knockdown so I wasn’t sure (if it was a knockdown) . But if they want the rematch we’ll give them the rematch.

“I like the Mexican fighters with balls and I like the way he fights so I would definitely give him the rematch.

“I told him after the fight to smile and he had nothing to say.

“I didn’t really feel like I needed the knockout in that last round, I just wanted to dominate.

“Ellis is a good fighter, but this was mostly about what I was able to do. All credit to God for allowing me to come out with my arm raised up high.

“I’m not thinking about the future right now, just soaking in the moment.”

Rashidi Ellis

“I want the rematch right away. I’m fine (physically).

“I thought I was dictating the fight. I don’t know. I don’t know what happened.

“I totally disagree with the decision. I was winning most of the rounds. Yeah, he had the knockdown but other than that I was winning most of the rounds.”

Andrade Decisions Nicholson in Super Middleweight Debut

Demetrius Andrade made his super middleweight debut and the former two-division was successful as he pounded out a 10-round unanimous decision over Demond Nicholson

In round two, Andrade landed a straight left that was followed by a right hook that sent Nicholson on his rear end. Each seemingly scored knockdowns that referee Malik Waleed missed.

In round 10, Andrade landed right hook to the head that made Nicholson’s glove touch the canvas that was ruled a knockdown.

Andrade landed 145 of 325 punches. Nicholson was just 28 of 231.

Andrade, 167 lbs of Providence, RI won by scores of 100-88 on all cards and is now 32-0. Nicholson, 167.25 lbs of Laurel, MD is 26-5-1.

Demetrius Andrade

“I felt good, I can definitely tell the weight difference but the speed and combinations and the IQ was the plan today and that’s what we did. The weight (was different).”

Charlos, Benavidez vs. Plant winner?

“The only way I can say I’m the best is by fighting the best. Everyone knows that Demond Nicholson is a dog. That’s why we took this fight. He took this fight because he knew I was coming up and he definitely has the animal in him. He showed it today and we’re just boxing – IQ.”

On the 10^th round knockdown:

“That was definitely clean. Nice left. Definitely a knockdown. That left hand. Boom. It was great to be here. I want to thank SHOWTIME for the opportunity and PBC and everyone that came out today. It’s me again baby!

“I thought I would be able to get him out of there in the deep waters, but he’s a tough guy. I think we both cut each other early in the fight, but at the end of the day we do what we have to do. 

“I threw some nice combinations and some nice hard shots, but he came in shape. People get up to fight me. 

“We’re going to look to see who’s available at 168 pounds. I’m just going to get stronger, sharper and faster too.”

Vito Mielnicki stopped Omar Rosales in round four of their eight-round junior middleweight bout.

Mielnicki landed power punches throughout the contest and then unloaded on Rosales on round four and the bout was stopped at 26 seconds.

Mielnicki, 153.2 lbs of Roseland, NJ is now 14-1 with nine knockouts. Rosales, 152.8 lbs of Houston, TX is 9-2-1.

Brandun Lee remained undefeated by stopping Diego Luque in round four of a scheduled eight-round super lightweight bout.

Lee dominated the action and then landed a bevvy of hard punches that forced the corner of Luque to throw in the towel at

Lee, 141.4 lbs of a Quinta, CA is 27-0 with 23 knockouts. Luque, 141.2 lbs of Cordoba, ARG is 21-11-2.

Travon Marshall needed just 48 seconds to obliterate Shawn West in a six-round welterweight bout.

Marshall landed flush and hard power shots from the opening bell until fight was stopped at 48 seconds.

Marshall, 149.8 lbs of Capitol Heights, MD is 7-0 with six knockouts. West, 151.2 lbs of San Antonio, TX is 7-3-1.

Keeshawn Williams won a six-round unanimous decision over Gustavo David Vittori in a welterweight bout.

Williams, 146,2 lbs of Lanham, MD won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 11-1-1. Vittori, 145.6 lbs of Argentina is 26-12-1.

Former world champion Lamont Peterson tried to come back after a four-year retirement only to be stopped in round four of a six-round super lightweight bout to unheralded Michael Ogundo.

In round four, Peterson was dropped hard with a right hand. He was in serious trouble when Ogundo followed with a hard flurry that forced Peterson’s corner to wave the towel at 2:05.

Ogund0, 140.2 lbs of Quincy, MA is 17-16 with 14 knockouts. Peterson, 141.6 lbs of Washington, DC is 35-6-1,

Kyrone Davis took an eight-round unanimous decision over Cristian Fabian Rios in a super middleweight contest.

Davis, 163.8 lbs of Wilmington, DE won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 17-3-1. Rios, 164.4 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 23-16-3.

Jalil Hackett made quick work of Joel Guevara by scoring an opening round of their four-round super welterweight bout,

Hackett dropped Guevara in the opening round with a hard right hand. Hackett was all over Guevara and sent him to the canvas a with a left hook and the fight was stopped at 2:11.

Hackett, 156.2 lbs of Washington, DC is 5-0 with four knockouts. Guevara, 155.8 lbs of Charlston, WV is 4-9-1.

Mia Ellis stopped Karen Dulin in the opening round of their four-round lightweight bout.

Ellis scored two knockdowns and the fight was called after the second knockdown at 1:53.

Ellis, 128.2 lbs of Baltimore is 6-1 with five knockouts. Dulin, 129.8 lbs of Portsmouth, NH is 5-26-1.

BROOKLYN–It took one punch by Gervonta Davis to shut the mouth of Rolando Romero as Davis retained his WBA Lightweight title with a sixth round stoppage of Romero in front of a sold-out Barclays Center of 18,790.

The fight was a tactical first five-plus round with neither man averaging more than 20 punches per round.  

Finally in round six, Romero ran right into a perfect left to the face that had him sprawling into the ropes and down the canvas,  Romero got to his feet but was unsteady, and referee David Fields stopped the fight at 2:39.

Davis, 133.75 lbs of Baltimore, MD is 27-0 with 25 knockouts.  Romero, 134.25 lbs of Las Vegas is 14-1.

Gervonta Davis

“I want to thank God, first for this victory, second I want to thank Al Haymon, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, we did it again in New York City baby. Thank you New York City.  I won my first belt here and it was great to come back to New York City and do it again.

“I was thinking as this interview was coming up and as much as I wanted to be cocky, but I want to thank Rolly. I want to thank his team. We settled it like men inside the ring. I wish him the best in the future.

“I knew it was all about selling the fight. I’m glad we didn’t fight the first time because I was so emotional. But I’m just grateful to be in this position and to be able to come out with the win. He was strong for sure but it was a couple shots that I was getting warmed up and he caught me and I was like, ‘I can’t sit with him just yet.’ I know when to take it to my opponents and when to chill out. There was someone in the crowd and they were telling me to press forward and I was like, not yet. I got to loose him up a little more.

“The crazy thing is that I didn’t even throw it that hard. He just ran into it. He just ran into it. Something like when Pacquiao got caught. I didn’t even throw it that hard and he’s the one who ran into it, when he was talking that it was going to be me.

“I knew that I could get into his head, just from when we weighed in. I knew his goal was to move in front of me (on stage during the weigh in) so when he went in front of me he didn’t realize that the stand was coming to an end so I just tapped him and he fell.

“I’m here baby, whatever they want to do, I’m here. I want to send my condolences to Mr. Russell, he was someone who I came up with in the amateurs. I want to shout out the Russell brothers and send my condolences to them.”

Lara Stops O’Sullivan in eight; Retains Middleweight title

Erislandy Lara retained the WBA Middleweight title with an eighth round stoppage over Gary O’Sullivan.

In round four, Lara dropped O’Sullivan with a straight left.

In round eight, it was another straight left that rocked O’Sullivan and the fight was stopped.

Lara, 159.75 lbs of Guantanamo, CUB is 29-3-3 with 17 knockouts.  O’Sullivan, 159 lbs of Cork, IRE is 31-5.

Erislandy Lara

“This new style that I’m demonstrating is for all the boxers to show them how I can fight now, just being able to change up. He was a tough boxer, too.

“I’m a smart boxer, a slick boxer, that’s what I did tonight. I wait until he attacks and then I do what I have to do to win the fight.

“I saw the opening, he was leaving himself open and that’s when the left came in and knocked him down. I saw in the eighth round he didn’t have any more power and that’s when I stepped up and showed my power.

“I want to thank the fans that came to Brooklyn, Al Haymon and Luis De Cubas Jr. for setting up the big fights that I want to have for me. I’m still a force

Ramos Gets Family Revenge; Decisions Santanaria

Jesus Ramos avenged a loss that his uncle Abel had to Luke Santamaria, by winning a 10-round unanimous decision in a super welterweight bout.

Ramos landed 158 of 625 punches; Santamaria was 142 of 560.

Ramos, 153.5 lbs of Casa Grande, AZ won by scores of 98-92 and 97-93 and is now 19-0.  Santamaria, 154 lbs of Garden Grove, CA is now 13-3-1.

Jesús Ramos

“Yes of course (it was important to avenge the loss of my uncle). It wasn’t the way we wanted to win, but I think it takes two to tango and tonight I was the one who wanted to fight. I’m not really satisfied. I could have done a lot better but like I said, it takes two to tango and tonight Santamaria didn’t want to fight

“I could have pressed a little more, gone to the body a little more, he was kind of slippery in there, and I didn’t want to risk anything because he would counter so I was trying to stay composed and stay at my distance.

“I’m going to go back and watch the fight and grow. I went 10 rounds again and it’s going to help me mature a lot more.

“I want whoever they want to put in front of me. We’re going to keep going forward and take whatever fight my team thinks is best for me.

“I could improve on cutting off the ring a little and going to the body a little bit more. He was headbutting me and fighting a little dirty in there, so I didn’t want to get too careless.”

Luke Santamaría

“I thought it was closer than that. I thought we got the win. Unfortunately, it didn’t go our way. I moved up in weight. I thought he was going to be stronger than that. I thought we did enough to win the fight.

“The plan was to counter and slip his shots. I thought it was good enough to get the win but what happened happened and we can’t complain.

“We’re going to stay at 147. When you lose you dig a deep hole but we’ve dug ourselves out of the hole before and we’ll do it again. He never hurt me, never felt his power. I was good. I thought he was going to be tough. I’m just as tough as they come.

“The plan was to box him and to get him tired and it was working. I thought it worked.”

Ramirez Decisions Melendez

Eduardo Ramirez won a 10-round majority decision over Luis Melendez in a junior lightweight fight.

Ramirez landed 171 of 555 punches; Melendez was 193 of 659.

Ramirez, 130 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 95-95 and is now 27-2-4.

Eduardo Ramírez

“The first few rounds were even, but after that he only had his jab. I was able to hurt him. He tried to win going backwards and that’s no way to win.

“I want to fight for the world title next. I’m ready for any of the top fighters. I don’t shy away from tough challenges.”

Luis Meléndez

“I felt I won the fight. It’s part of the game. You just have to go back and keep training and just come back better.

“The last scorecard when they said it, I felt I won, without a doubt. My people know I won, the crowd knows I won, it definitely hurts when you travel here and you expect to win and it’s my first pay-per-view. Everybody at home was watching me. It is what it is. I just have to go back to the drawing board and get better. I’m still young. I felt I landed the crisper punches and out-boxed him. He never hurt me. Never.

“It felt great to hear the crowd cheering for me. It’s more of a Gervonta crowd, but they showed me love. It just comes with the territory. The judges didn’t think it was for me this time. It is what it is.”

Luis Arias won a 10-round unanimous decision over Jimmy Williams in a super welterweight fight.

Arias, 155.25 lbs of Boca Raton, FL won by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is now 20-3-1.  Williams, 154 lbs of Plainfield, NJ is 18-8-2.

Jalil Hackett remained undefeated by stopping Jose Belloso in round three of their four round welterweight bout.

The time was 2:13 for Hackett, 145 lbs of Washington, DC who is now 4-0 with three knockouts.  Belloso, 145.75 lbs of Carson, CA is 4-1.

Adrian Benton remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Jose Antonio Meza in a super lightweight bout.

Benton, 129.4 lbs of Cincinnati, OH won by scores of 59-55 twice and 58-56 and is now 7-0.  Meza, 130 lbs of Gomez Pueblo, MEX is 8-7.

Arnold Gonzalez won a six-round split decision over Tracey McGruder in a welterweight contest.

Gonzalez, 146.4 lbs of New York won on two cards 58-56, while McGruder took a card 59-57.

Gonzalez is 10-0.  McGruder, 148.4 lbs of Rochester, NY is 6-3.

Cattino Oliver won a four-round unanimous decision over Jahdon Lewis in a super bantamweight fight.

Oliver, 118.2 lbs of Baltimore, MD won by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 twice and is now 2-0.  Lewis, 118.2 lbs of North Augusta, SC is 2-2.

Julica Pavilus won a six-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Mia Ellis in a lightweight bout.

In round six, Pavilus dropped Ellis with a left hook.

Pavilius, 133.2 lbs of Port-a-Prince, HAI won by scores of 59-54, 58-55 and 57-56 and is now 3-5-1.  Ellis, 134 lbs of Baltimore, MD is 4-1.

BROOKLYN – May 25, 2022 – Super welterweight contender Luis “Cuba” Arias will face Jimmy Williams in a 10-round showdown, while exciting welterweight prospect Jalil “Major” Hackett takes on unbeaten Jose Belloso for a six-round attraction in undercard bouts that will stream live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube page this Saturday, May 28 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The streaming action will begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and lead into the highly-anticipated SHOWTIME PPV lineup headlined by WBA Lightweight Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, boxing’s hottest young attraction, taking on unbeaten No.1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero. SHOWTIME has tapped a notable announce team to host the streamed fights on Saturday’s pre-show as veteran combat sports reporter Brian Campbell of MORNING KOMBAT, NBA champion Stephen Jackson of ALL THE SMOKE, and former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams will call the preliminary action live from the 40/40 Club inside Barclays Center and look ahead to the PPV bouts.

Campbell will also serve as the host of Friday’s live-streamed weigh-in with Jackson and former world champion Raul Marquez covering the weigh-in and breaking down the fights. Former NBA superstar Tracy McGrady will also join Friday’s weigh-in stream as a special guest from the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page, and the Premier Boxing Champions YouTube page.

The SHOWTIME PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event. Plus, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos faces Luke Santamaría in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in the 10-round super featherweight telecast opener.

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

A native of Milwaukee who now trains out of Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions’ Arias (19-3-1, 9 KOs) will look to bounce back on Saturday night from a split-decision loss to Vaughn Alexander in December. Prior to that fight, Arias had scored a career-best victory in June 2021, as he earned a decision victory over former unified champion Jarrett Hurd on the Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV undercard. Arias has also battled former champion Daniel Jacobs and owns a draw against veteran contender Gabriel Rosado. He will take on New Haven, Connecticut’s Williams (18-7-2, 6 KOs), who also will be looking to return to the win column after dropping a March contest to unbeaten Tyron James. The 35-year-old Williams owns a 2021 victory over former champion Yuri Foreman and has fought everywhere from 140 to 160 pounds throughout his career, having faced top contenders such as Brandun Lee and Abel Ramos.

Hackett (3-0, 2 KOs), a fast-rising prospect in the Mayweather Promotions’ stable, will look to continue his road toward becoming the next great fighter representing Washington, D.C. as he continues his burgeoning pro career on Saturday night. The 19-year-old turned pro in June 2021, scoring a first-round knockout of Angelo Diaz. He followed that up with another first-round knockout in October, before earning a shutout four-round unanimous decision over Darynn Levya in December. He will face off against the fellow unbeaten Belloso (4-0, 4 KOs), who is yet to go the distance since turning pro in June 2021. The 29-year-old is originally from Carson, California and now resides in Arkansas, having most recently stopped Anthony Woods in three rounds in December.

In non-televised undercard bouts, New York-native Arnold Gonzalez (9-0, 5 KOs) will take on Tracey McGruder (6-2, 4 KOs) in a six-round welterweight fight, plus Cincinnati’s Adrian Benton (6-0, 4 KOs) competes in a six-round super lightweight duel versus Mexico’s Jose Antonio Meza (8-6, 2 KOs), while Baltimore’s Cuttino Oliver (1-0, 1 KO) faces South Carolina’s Jahden Lewis (2-1, 1 KO) in a four-round super bantamweight attraction and Baltimore’s Mia Ellis (4-0, 3 KOs) steps in against Haiti’s Jaica Pavilus (2-1, 1 KO) for a six-round lightweight showdown.

#

ABOUT DAVIS VS. ROMERO
Davis vs. Romero will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Title against unbeaten No. 1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero on Saturday, May 28 live on SHOWTIME PPV from Barclays Center in Brooklyn headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event. Plus, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos faces Luke Santamaría in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in the 10-round super featherweight telecast opener.

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

The most anticipated boxing exhibition, perhaps in history, took place tonight at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. YouTube sensation Logan Paul surprisingly took the 50-0, 12-time, five-division boxing superstar Floyd Mayweather the distance in an eight-round exhibition.  The brave YouTube star stepped to the 44-year-old retired Mayweather in the opening round ending the first round with a flurry at the end of the round, not many if any landed. The 26-year-old Paul intelligently used his size advantage on Mayweather, at times like a weighted blanket. Mayweather was able to counter punch the bigger Paul and landed a strong left hook in round four that seemed to show flashes of the Floyd Mayweather of old. There were times it looked as if the Champ was going to kick it up a notch and take out the younger Paul, but the young Maverick survived the biggest night of his life.  At the end of the day, it was about entertainment, and the crowd, although a bit disappointed they did not see a knockout, they did witness the greatest boxer of our era for perhaps the final time in a big-time boxing event.

FLOYD MAYWEATHER“He was strong, tough and better than I thought he was. I was surprised by him tonight. That was some good little work. 

“Even without much experience, he knew to use his weight to tie me up tonight. 

“I had fun tonight. I thank all the fans who came out, you’re all unbelievable.”
LOGAN PAUL“I don’t want anyone to tell me anything is impossible ever again. The fact that I got in here with one of the greatest boxers of all time, it proves the odds can be beat. Anyone can beat the odds and do great things in life. This is one of the greatest nights of my life, I’m happy.

“It’s an honor to share the ring with Floyd. He’s one of the GOATs. This is one of the coolest things ever.”

Badou Jack KO’s Late Replacement Colina in Four

Light heavyweight Badou Jack 24-3-3 (14KO) dropped Dervin Colina 15-1(13KO) 3 times in the fourth round to secure a KO win.  Jack was dominant from the opening bell, starting unusually fast, letting his hands go. Colina often held and was deducted 2 points for holding to avoid the attack from Jack.  Colina was a late replacement after Jean Pascal tested positive for a number of banned substances, perhaps Jack’s unusual early aggression was frustration stemming from Pascal’s positive tests, in which he was very vocally upset on social media.

Badou Jack

On the Jean Pacal rematch falling out…

“People can say it’s bad luck but this is all from God. And I just have to be patient. This is God’s plan.

“The game plan was just to outbox him. Everything else will come. Definitely, hit the body. He was a little soft in the body but give him respect. He came out on short notice. He was supposed to fight next week but this is a different level.

“My goal is to become a three-division world champion. I walk around very heavy. I’m about to be 38 this year and I don’t like to cut weight so I’ll get with my team and see what’s next.

“He was trying to hold a lot and survive. I fight better when I fight better opponents. I was a little sloppy. The world class fights are when I perform the best.”

Luis Arias Upsets Jarrett Hurd in the Rain in Miami

In a thrilling junior middleweight battle, Luis Arias fought the fight of his life with a hard-earned split decision victory over former unified 154-pound champion Jarrett Hurd 24-2(16KO). Arias 19-2-1(9KO) started fast and very aggressive from the opening bell, often landing an overhand right while coming forward. Arias baited Hurd into an early inside brawl when midway through the second round a torrential Miami downpour halted the action when Arias slipped on the wet CashApp logo in the center of the ring. The rain slowed and Arias went right back to work coming after Hurd mauling with overhand rights.  Hurd had his moments in the middle rounds while taking a lot of shots himself. In a wild 9th round after another rain clean-up, Hurd scored a knockdown, however, it was a slip from the wet canvas.  Arias went on to potentially win the 9th round.  Arias came forward in the final round looking to take Hurd out, both fighters took several shots including a big shot from Hurd at the final bell that appeared to drop Arias. The official cards read 95-94 Hurd, 97-93 Arias 96-93 Arias. 15Rounds.com scored 97-92 Arias.

Luis Arias

“I came in here and challenged the No. 1 guy at 154 pounds and we fought somewhere halfway and I was able to edge a decision. Props to Jarrett Hurd. You fought a great fight. Honestly, you could have had me out of there. I was definitely buzzed. If you would have found a way, I definitely would have gone down.

“He is a great fighter and like I told him afterwards, he came in here and fought his heart out. He definitely should have taken more time off with what he was dealing with outside of the ring.

“We’re here. I never quit on myself. People close to me were telling me to get a job and quit boxing. I just beat a former champion. Don’t ever give up on yourself.

“I would like to thank Ismael Salas as well. I came to him semi-late. About six or seven weeks and I needed to change something in my game plan to beat Jarrett. The things I was doing before would have gotten me a loss tonight. I needed somebody to just tweak a little bit and put my game up a little bit so I could beat this champion. Jarrett is a hell of a fighter and he’s not done.

“My key to victory was staying confident. Staying confident and sticking to the game plan. Knowing I’m the better fighter. Knowing I’m in better shape and I hit harder. I’m a better boxer and my defense is better. I’m better than him and I just proved it.

“The game plan was to jump on him, get the early lead and keep it. I felt like in the middle rounds I was wining the fight but you never know because I wasn’t the A-side in this fight. I buzzed him a lot especially on the inside. If we were fighting at 154, he would have gotten knocked out. Everybody knows it.

“I’ve been around the Charlos. They are great champions. I’m not going to sit here and call out [Jermell] Charlo. I have to earn my stripes. Had I beat Hurd at 154, maybe I could mention him. But I can’t. The goal is to go down to 154 pounds and fight a former challenger.”

Jarrett Hurd

“I’m not sure what went wrong tonight. I believe I won the fight. I had a knockdown. I could make a hundred excuses but it wasn’t a great performance.

“The plan coming out in the first round was to box. I wasn’t as confident in my feet as the rain came down, so I had to go toe-to-toe more. That wasn’t really what we trained for, so I was a bit sloppy.

“I’ll take the rematch at whatever weight. I know I’m the better man.”

Chad Johnson dropped in Exhibition

Six-time NFL Pro Bowler Chad “Ocho Cinco” Johnson showed up, and showed out in his hometown of Miami in a four-round battle with MMA and bare-knuckle veteran Brian Maxwell. The southpaw “Ocho Cinco” got off to a good start showing his boxing skills with footwork, athleticism, catching Maxwell with right hooks, and occasional straight left hands while avoiding Maxwell’s attack, most of the early rounds. The fight turned scrappy at times with Maxwell from Roanoke, VA who holds a combined record of 2-6 in MMA and Bareknuckle saw an opportunity to take his idol down.  Maxwell kept pressing and caught Johnson relaxing a bit in the final round and dropped the former Pro Bowler Johnson who got up to see the final bell. 15Rounds.com scored the fight 38-37 Maxwell.  The fight was declared a Spirited Exhibition by ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr.

Johnson has been training in the offseason since high school and held his camp for this fight with the Charlo Brothers in Houston. Johnson said afterward he was happy to “Get this off of his bucket list” and “I am ready for Conor”.

Brian Maxwell

“Ask the world who Brian Maxwell is now. Brain Maxwell is here. Thank you, Chad. It was an honor fighting my idol and I appreciate it.”

Chad Johnson

“I had fun. I had two months to get ready for this and I want to thank God for keeping us safe out there. I want to thank Floyd, Leonard Ellerbe and my whole team for allowing me to check this off my bucket list. My life has always been about taking chances and doing crazy stuff and this is just one off my bucket list. It’s a message for a lot of people who are scared to fail, scared to lose, scared to take chances to go out there and live. Don’t be scared to fail, it’s okay. I don’t box. I fight but it ain’t in the ring so of course I was a little sloppy.”

Mayweather Promotions Adrian Benton improved to 5-0 (3KO) with a unanimous decision win over the hard-charging Pedro Cruz 1-1(1KO) fighting out of San Jose California. Cruz came forward the whole fight and found early success, finding the swift-footed Benton in a competitive scrap. Benton started timing Cruz with counterpunching and angles, separating with the lead as the fight wore on. By the fourth round, Benton was having his way with Cruz, who never stopped coming forward. The cards read 40-36 thrice.  I gave Cruz the second round.

Hard punching super lightweight Jean Carlos Torres 19-0 (15 KO) dropped Zack Kuhn 10-8-1 three times on his way to a destructive second-round knockout. A slow-starting first round quickly heated up when Torres started letting his hands go, dropping Kuhn twice in the first round. A ripping left hook from Torres immediately dropped Kuhn ending the fight at 41 of round two.

Highly decorated amateur and Mayweather Promotions rookie Jalil Hackett out of Washington D.C. took his talents to Miami, and made an impressive successful debut with an early first-round destruction over debuting Dallas, TX product Angelo Diaz.  Hackett came out firing, hitting Diaz nearly at will, and finally dispensed Diaz in the corner with a slick hook and straight right hand resulting in a knockout win 1:10 of round one.

The Floyd Mayweather vs Logan Paul event kicked off with competitive professional boxing as Buckeye, Arizona’s Dorian Mark Khan Jr 1-0 (1KO) who made his professional debut in hot Miami style with a TKO win over Jonathan Gray 0-4.  The southpaw Kahn was sharpshooting from round one, and aggressively progressed through round two dropping the game Gray who, by advisement of his corner did not answer the bell through for the third round.

MIAMI GARDENS – (May 27, 2021) – Fighters competing in a series of exciting undercard attractions on Sunday, June 6 will enter the ring at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens for action that leads up to the Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul SHOWTIME PPV event.

The non-televised fight lineup will include unbeaten Puerto Rican super lightweight contender Jean Torres (18-0, 14 KOs) squaring off against West Virginia’s Zack Kuhn (10-7-1, 5 KOs) for an eight-round bout, undefeated lightweight prospect and Cincinnati-native Adrian Benton (4-0, 3 KOs) taking on San Jose’s Pedro Cruz (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round lightweight affair and unbeaten Phoenix-native Micky Scala (2-0, 1 KO) in a four-round super welterweight showdown against New Mexico’s Adam Ramirez (1-1, 1 KO).

Rounding out the action is unbeaten cruiserweight prospect and popular social media star Viddal Riley competing in a six-round cruiserweight fight against Missouri’s Quintell Thompson, plus a pair of promising prospects make their pro debuts in four-round bouts as Washington, D.C.-born welterweight Jalil Hackett battles Texas’ Angelo Diaz and Phoenix’s Dorian Khan Jr. duels Miami’s Jonathan Conde in a super featherweight fight.

“I’m very excited for this undercard,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “We have a young group of rising hungry talent coming out of Mayweather Promotions’ stable with the opportunity to be aligned with a Mayweather mega event! Not many will have this opportunity beyond this point, and I’m sure that all of them will seize the moment and put on a show come June 6.”

Tickets for the live event are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

ABOUT MAYWEATHER VS. LOGAN PAUL
Mayweather vs. Logan Paul is a special exhibition bout presented by Mayweather Promotions, FANMIO and Mavathltcs that will take place on Sunday, June 6 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. The telecast, which is being produced by SHOWTIME PPV, will air live beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and can be purchased now at SHOWTIME.com and FANMIO.com. The undercard will feature WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal vs. two-division world champion Badou Jack in a 12-round rematch, plus former unified super welterweight champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd against Luis Arias in a 10-round bout and in a fourth PPV bout, former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson will make his boxing debut in an exhibition match against versatile fighter Brian Maxwell. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

For more information visit bit.ly/mayweatherpaul, www.SHO.com/sports, www.FANMIO.com. Follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromo, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO and on Instagram @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @MayweatherPromotions, @ShowtimeBoxing and @FANMIO.

LAS VEGAS (May 18, 2021) – Two-division world champion Badou Jack and veteran contender Luis Arias previewed their respective showdowns during a Las Vegas media workout Tuesday, before they step in the ring for separate attractions of the Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Sunday, June 6 from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

Jack will return to the ring for a rematch against WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal, while Arias squares off against former unified champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd on the pay-per-view beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

The event also featured Mayweather Promotions’ fighters Jean Carlos Torres, Dorian Khan Jr., Jalil Hackett and Micky Scala, who will compete in separate non-televised bouts on Sunday, June 6. Here is what the fighters had to say Tuesday from the Mayweather Boxing Club:

BADOU JACK

“Floyd called me in January last year and told me the rematch was on for April. That was last year. It’s been done since we walked out of the ring the first time, but I’m happy it’s finally done. I’m happy it’s here and I’m ready to put on a show.

“I’m trying to perfect everything in preparation for this matchup. Better nutrition. Better conditioning. Better sparring. I’m trying to be better at everything.

“This is my second fight with my new trainer Johnathan Banks. The first was just a tune-up fight. It wasn’t a high-level fight. It was an eight-rounder, so it was just like a sparring session. But I’m in way better shape than I was in the last camp and I’m ready to go.

“My fight is going to be a hell of a fight. Everybody knows that. It was a Fight of the Year contender last time. Floyd vs. Logan is going to be entertainment. That’s a different kind of fight, but Floyd is going to put on a show. All of the eyeballs are going to be on that night so it’s going to be a great night.

“Pascal likes trying to get under my skin, but I’m too calm. I’m too confident for that. At the end of the day, he’s a veteran, I’m a veteran and it’s going to be a great fight night.

“I thought I won the first fight. 75 percent of everybody that watched the fight thought I won. There was only one judge that had experience, Julie Lederman, and she had me winning. The other two might have scored his so-called punches but it is what it is.

“Johnathan Banks is my new coach. He’s great. He’s only a year older than me so we have great chemistry together and everything has been working great. It was a little hard in the beginning to adjust to certain things, but now in camp I feel great in sparring and everything we’re doing right now.”

LUIS ARIAS

“It feels amazing to be involved in this event. For a fighter like me who’s been up and down, who was undefeated at one point and then lost it all, went from being one of the best to being overlooked, to be able to fight my way through and to be able to keep fighting and keep working to get back on this big stage is truly a blessing. I’m happy. I’m blessed. I can’t wait to get on that stage.

“Boxing is my life and I had to make the necessary changes to get back to this level. I’ve already been to the highest level and I fell short. I got the experience of being there, I know what I need to do to get there and I made those necessary changes. It’s one of the reasons I came back to Vegas, to start training over here to get that experience, to get to that level and to get better. That’s what I’ve been doing and that’s why I’ve been able to prove that I still belong. Floyd saw it. I sparred Floyd. He sees that I still got it and I’m making the changes. He sees how my body is changing and he sees that I can still compete.”

JEAN CARLOS TORRES

“I’m very happy to be on this card. I am going to give the best fight that I can for all my fans. I’m going to do the best that I can.”

DORIAN KHAN JR.

“It feels good to be a part of this event. I’m just getting ready for my fight and focusing on that, but it’s a good opportunity so I’m ready.”

JALIL HACKETT

“It’s amazing to sign with Floyd Mayweather and be a part of this event. It’s a dream come true. I’ve worked so hard since I was eight years old and I’m finally here getting the fruits of my labor.”

MICKY SCALA

“It feels great to be part of the biggest event probably in boxing history. I’m super excited. My family and friends are super excited. We have a lot of fans that are excited and I can’t wait to put on a show. I’m very thankful to Mayweather Promotions for getting me on this card and giving me this opportunity. I’m going to make the best of it.

“That fight before the pandemic at Sam’s Town was a big motivation for me during the down time to stay ready because I knew another fight was going to come soon. My family was a big part of that motivation. I want to make sure that they can live however they want to, so I’m working hard every single day. I’ve been ready to fight since the day the pandemic started until now. I can’t wait to put on a show in Miami.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO MAYWEATHER PROMOTIONS

“We have two hot events coming up. We have the Floyd event with him taking on Logan Paul. Tremendous undercard from top to bottom. We have all my pro debut guys. I call them my starting five. And then we have Chad Ochocinco who is going to be fighting in an exhibition. Everybody is dying to see that. And then we have former unified champion Jarrett Hurd taking on Mayweather Promotions’ own Luis Arias. I think that will be a tremendous fight. Those guys will be looking to steal the show in a 10-round bout. In the co-main event, we have none other than Pascal vs. Jack. That will be a war. Their first fight was a Fight of the Year and I expect nothing different. The fans are really in for a treat with that fight.

“We were just waiting for the right opportunity to make the Pascal vs. Jack rematch. This is a tremendous platform. It’s a huge event and it’s the type of platform that these two guys deserve, to be seen on a global situation around the world.

“My starting five is filled with top-tier talent. I know talent when I see it. Each and every one of these guys I’ve had a great look at up close and personal and I was beyond impressed. Floyd was also. All of them have big futures.

“Floyd Mayweather vs. Logan Paul is entertainment. Floyd is an entertainer. Logan Paul is an entertainer. One thing about the Paul brothers is they’ve shown they can have an impact on anything that they do. I’ve been very impressed with both of those guys, especially Logan. I call him the king of the internet. One thing about both of them is that they’ve been extremely consistent at what they’ve been doing. I’m not going to stand here and pretend that these guys are ready for championship fights because they’re not, but they work extremely hard and they’re very good at what they do.”

#

ABOUT MAYWEATHER VS. PAUL
Mayweather vs. Paul will see all-time boxing great and 2020 International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Floyd “Money” Mayweather make his return to the ring as the undefeated, 12-time, five-division world champion squares off in an exhibition bout against social media sensation and pro boxer Logan “The Maverick” Paul, headlining a blockbuster SHOWTIME PPV event on Sunday, June 6.

The event is presented by Mayweather Promotions, Fanmio and Mavathltcs and will take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also feature WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal and two-division world champion Badou Jack meeting in a 12-round rematch in the co-main event. Plus, former unified super welterweight champion “Swift” Jarrett Hurd returns to the ring to face Luis Arias in a 10-round bout. In a fourth PPV bout, former NFL star wide receiver Chad Johnson will make his boxing debut in an exhibition match against an opponent to be announced.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, bit.ly/mayweatherpaul. Follow on Twitter @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @SHOWTIMEBoxing and @MayweatherPromo and on Instagram @FloydMayweather, @LoganPaul, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @Fanmio, www.fanmio.com, the Official Digital PPV provider.