UNCASVILLE, CONN. – September 17, 2020 – Top super welterweight contenders Erickson “Hammer” Lubin and Terrell Gausha were joined by fighters competing on this Saturday’s SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION for virtual media availability Thursday, before Lubin and Gausha meet in a WBC Super Welterweight title eliminator headlining the event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The call also featured featherweight contenders Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar and Cobia Breedy, who meet in the 10-round co-main event, plus unbeaten welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis and the Dominican Republic’s Juan Carlos Abreu, who kick off the action live on SHOWTIME in a 10-round bout at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

ERICKSON LUBIN

“I had a tremendous training camp once again. Saturday night I’m looking to go out there, look my best and come out with a dominant victory. I’m expecting Terrell to be solid too. But the way I train, I’m going to have an answer for everything that he comes with.

“I remember watching Terrell back in his Olympic days. Now we’re in the pro ranks though, so it’s a totally different story. He’s a solid fighter, but I feel like I’m on a different level than him. I’m planning on proving that on Saturday night.

“I always want to go out there and get the knockout. That’s what every fighter wants. If that doesn’t come, then I’m in shape and ready to fight 15 rounds if I had to. That’s the type of shape I’m in.

“These are great fights to get me ready for another title shot. Fighting for a title at such a young age did a lot for my game. Ithelped me get to that next level. This next go around for the title will definitely be different. I feel like I’m at my best right now.

“I’m fighting for that mandatory spot for the winner of Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario and I’m looking forward to getting in the ring to fight one of those guys. I’m excited to fight for not just one strap, but all three. I’m not just chasing Jermell Charlo. I’m chasing those titles. If he wins, so be it. I want those belts.

“I train to go in there and make a statement. That’s what I’m looking forward to Saturday. I just have to be steps ahead of him. My boxing skills are the best in the division and I’m going to be able to show it Saturday. Anything he thinks he can do, I can do better.

“I did some studying on Gausha. I looked at the Erislandy Lara fight, the Austin Trout fight and a few other fights. My trainer looks into that more than I do. I saw what I needed to see. We put together a game plan that we’re ready to execute on Saturday night.

“I think Gausha has some problems with southpaws, but I’m not focused on that. I’m focused on my game plan and coming out victorious Saturday night.

“I have to go out there and win, but I also have to win in style. I have to look good winning. I feel like my advantage is that I’m more determined than he is. I’m younger and I believe that I have the edge in almost every department. I know that I’m a couple of steps ahead of him.

“The loss was definitely something to learn from. It was also disappointing, because I dared to be great. I learned that experience is a great teacher. I took that from the Charlo fight, brought it with me and bounced back. I’m still bouncing back in a great way and I’ll soon take over this division.”

TERRELL GAUSHA

“We had a good training camp, and we are in shape and ready. On Saturday night, I’m going to put out my best performance to date and get the win.

“I’m expecting Erickson Lubin to come in ready. I’m expecting a good fight. We both know what’s on the line, and that a title shot awaits us. But I’m looking to make a statement and take control.

“It’s a great opportunity for both of us. I’m looking forward to fighting for the titles next. Whatever we have to do, we’re going to do. We can box or we can bang. We will do whatever we need to do.

“Ohio always has the true players in the game. When you think of this sport, you’ve got Rau’Shee Warren, Robert Easter Jr., myself, and the list goes on and on. I’m happy to be from Ohio, and especially the city of Cleveland.

“Lubin is the favorite in this fight, but I’m no stranger to being an underdog. I’ve been with [trainer] Manny Robles a long time, even before I went pro and while making the Olympics. We just work really well together.

“There’s no pressure on me. I definitely want to let my hands go, but there’s no pressure. This will be my fourth southpaw in a row. So I’m more comfortable and familiar this time around.

“I’ve fought a lot of top guys. I wasn’t really 100% against Austin Trout, but I felt like I did really well. Now, I’m 100%.
“I’ve seen all the top guys in my division and I’ve seen them hold all the belts. I know Jeison Rosario and [Jermell] Charlo fight next week, but I can’t look past Saturday night.

“I like the style matchup heading into the fight with Lubin. He likes to stay busy and press the action and I think that’s better for me and gives me a chance to catch him.

“The guys before me, they all fought each other. Sugar Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler, Roberto Duran. They all fought each other. To be the best you have to beat the best. And you can see that the fights I take, even after a long layoff, they are tough fights.”

TUGSTSOGT NYAMBAYAR

“I had a very good training camp and I’m ready for Saturday night. We had the same problems that everyone else had training during the pandemic, but we stayed safe and we’re prepared for this fight.

“It wasn’t my night against Gary Russell Jr., but now I’m a better fighter. I was waiting too much against Russell and I let him control the fight. I have to be in control of the fight from the beginning until the end.

“I had a bit of an ankle sprain heading into the fight against Russell. I wasn’t able to use my movement as much as I wanted. It was a mild injury, but it caused me to have a lot less running in training. It just wasn’t the best ‘King Tug’. I would happily rematch Gary Russell Jr. I would love to fight him again because I think it would end differently.

“I have watched a couple of fights from Cobia Breedy and he’s definitely a good fighter. He’s a tough competitor, but we’ll see what happens Saturday. I’m going to bring my best.

“This is going to be a much better performance from me. I’ve had eight weeks of hard training and I’m mentally better than ever. I’m going to put on a good show Saturday.

“The change in opponent made no difference to me. We train to win no matter what. We want to get this win and move to the next step, which is winning a world title.

“It doesn’t matter what kind of style he brings to the ring. We’re ready for anything he brings on Saturday night. I’ve worked hard and I think I’m going to stop him in the middle rounds.”

COBIA BREEDY

“I basically live in the gym, so I’m always ready whenever the phone rings. I don’t have to get ready. We had a wonderful camp for this fight. I was originally scheduled to fight later in September, so I jumped on this opportunity to face Nyambayar when the opportunity came. I’m ready for anything that happens on Saturday.

“When I was 11-0, Barry Hunter called me to spar with Rau’shee Warren and me and my coach fell in love with the Headbangers team. Barry has come on board and given us help to get us to the next level.

“I’m never under pressure because I know that I’m doing this for. I’m doing this for my people back home in Barbados. I’m doing it for my family, my wife and everybody who supports me. I’m going to show everyone who ‘Soldier’ Breedy is.

“Me and my coach have this thing called the seven styles of boxing. People say I fight like Tim Bradley, Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather – and that’s where my separate styles come into play. I even have some old school Joe Frazier that comes into play. It depends what Nyambayar brings to the table. Whatever he has, we’re going to match him.

“I just have to show the world what I can do. I’m not worried about how he fought against Gary Russell Jr., that was a good win for Gary. Tug is a good fighter. He’s accomplished a lot, but he hasn’t fought a soldier yet. Saturday night he’s going to be facing something different.

“Being a world champion from Barbados would make history. It would be great for my people. Boxing in Barbados is not a big thing. It’s different there. Me bringing back hope for my country would be an amazing thing. I could show kids there that you can come from Barbados and follow your dreams.

“I’ve been around a lot of world champions in training, so I feel like I know what it takes to get to the next level. Now I just have to show it in the ring Saturday.”

JARON ENNIS

“We never prepare one way for one person. We prepare all the way around because you never know how that guy is going to come out. We mix everything up.

“Whatever he brings, we are going to be ready. I’m going to go out there, do my thing, be smart, have my fun, and get that stoppage at the end of the night.

“My last fight, I did good, but there were a lot of things I watched that I could have done better – so that’s what we worked on in this camp, and you guys will see on Saturday night. Being more relaxed and not rushing and letting it come to me.

“You’ve just got to let the knockout come. You’ve got to feel it, you can’t just go in there and go for the knockout. That’s how you get tired and lose your cool or even get hit with punches that you shouldn’t be getting hit with.

“Most definitely I’m ready for a title shot, I’ve been ready. After Saturday night I’ll probably get a title eliminator and then sometime in 2021 I’ll be world champion.

“It feels great to put Philadelphia on my back. I can’t wait to perform and show the rest of the world my talent on Saturday night.”

JUAN CARLOS ABREU

“I’m feeling great and I prepared very well for this fight. I’m ready to show the best version of myself on Saturday night.

“I know Ennis is a good young fighter, so it’s going to be his youth versus my experience. I’ve fought a lot of younger fighters with good abilities, so we’ll see what he has on Saturday. My losses have given me the wisdom and experience to deal with someone like Jaron Ennis.

“My fellow Dominican Jeison Rosario winning his titles gave me a lot of motivation and gave the whole country a lot of motivation. It showed me that we can make it to the top level and it helps me keep pushing forward.

“Ennis is a good fighter just like all the prospects I’ve faced. I think they put him in over his head. I’ve never been knocked out. So he’s going to have to fight. This is going to be his first actual fight.

“I’m going to do my work like I always do and put him in a position that I’m more comfortable with – that’s fighting into the later rounds. I’m going to do my best work from rounds six through 10.

“I’m not going to allow this fight to go the distance. I’m going to fight him where I’m comfortable. One of us is getting knocked out. If it gets to where I’m behind on points, I’m just going to come forward and try to take him out, even if I end up getting knocked out.

“If he stands and fights, it’s better for me. That’s what I want. I really want one of us to get knocked out. If he is in front of me, it’s a better chance for me. I’m not afraid of losing, but I’m coming to win.”

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ABOUT LUBIN VS. GAUSHA
Lubin vs. Gausha will see Top 154-pound contenders go toe-to-toe as hard-hitting Erickson “Hammer” Lubin battles 2012 U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in a WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator headlining a three-fight event presented by Premier Boxing Champions on Saturday, September 19 live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features Mongolia’s Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar stepping in to face unbeaten Cobia “Soldier” Breedy in the 10-round featherweight co-main event bout. The telecast opener will see one of the top prospects in boxing, unbeaten welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis, squaring off against the Dominican Republic’s Juan Carlos Abreu in a 10-round matchup.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The Ennis vs. Abreu bout is promoted in association with D & D Boxing.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing

BOSTON (September 15, 2020) – Upset-minded veteran Juan “Merengue” Carlos Abreu has vowed to use his experience advantage against boxing’s newest boogeyman, Jaron “Boots” Ennis (25-0, 23 KOs), who has knocked out his last 15 opponents in a row, this Saturday night (Sept. 19th) on SHOWTIME live from a “closed” Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Ennis-Abreu, presented by TGB Promotions in association with D & D Boxing, will open the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT in a 10-round welterweight match.

In his most recent fight last October, Abreu destroyed another undefeated prospect’s perfect record, 15-0 Israel Valerio, registering an opening round knockout to capture the World Boxing Council (WBC) FECARBOX welterweight title.

The 33-year-old Abreu, born in the Dominican Republic, has lived, and trained in Salem, Massachusetts, for the past five years. He is a former IBF Youth World super lightweight champion, whose mis most notable victory to date came in 2017, when he stopped dangerous Jesus Soto-Karass in the eighth round of their ESPN fight in Tucson, Arizona.
“I thank God, my family, and my team – Reyes Boxing and Hector Bermudez – for this opportunity to show my skills against a great fighter,” Abreu said after his workout at Salem Fitness Center.

Ennis, 23, is the latest in a long line of terrific Philadelphia fighters. A highly decorated amateur boxer, he was rated No. 1 in the country in his weight class (141 lbs.) when he turned pro in 2016. He won gold and silver medals at the prestigious National Golden Gloves Tournament, but “Boots” lost a close decision to Gary Russell in the 2016 U.S. Men’s Olympic Trials.

The fast-rising Ennis has rapidly become a “ring monster”, already ranked No. 11 in the world by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), No. 12 by the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and No. 16 by the WBC.

“Abreu is a very talented fighter,” Abreu’s manager Ryan Roach (Fighter Locker) commented. “This is a great opportunity for him to display his skills and that he belongs in the ring with the best. He’s had a great camp. The hard work is done. I’m looking forward to an action-packed fight on Showtime.”

Ennis has never fought past the sixth round, while Abreu has never been stopped. Something has to give.

“Juan Carlos worked hard for this chance to showcase his skills on Showtime against a great fighter,” Abreu’s head trainer Michael Reyes added. “We are ready. The work was put in at the gym, our mental head space is perfect. Only thing left is to bring home to win to Salem, Massachusetts.”

Fighter Locker’s growing stable of talented boxers also includes a talented Ukrainian trio of North American Boxing Association (NABA) super welterweight title holder Stanyslav Skofokhod (19-2, 16 KOs), word-rated welterweight Karen Chukhadzhian (16-1, 7 KOs) and super lightweight Zoravor Petrosyan (9-0, 4 KOs). Other Fighter Locker stablemates include fighting out of Salem, MA; Lynn, MA super welterweight Khiry “TNT” Todd (10-1, 8 KOs), West Haven, CT super welterweight Jimmy “Quiet Storm” Williams (16-3-2, 5 KOs), Dorchester, MA welterweight Gabriel Duluc (15-3, 4 KOs), Troy, NY super lightweight RayJay Bermudez (9-0, 6 koS), Toronto, Canada welterweight Jeff “The Trouble 1” Tabrizi (8-3, 7 KOs), Englewood, CO super featherweight Jesus Vasquez, Jr. (6-0, 2 KOs), Aurora, CO super middleweight “The Amazing” Shawn McCalman (4-0, 2 KOs) plus Irish National champion Paul Ryan, who will fight as a welterweight in the pro ranks, U.S. Army super bantamweight Daniel Bailey, Jr., who will making their pro debuts.

NEW YORK – September 3, 2020 – Top 154-pound contenders go toe-to-toe as hard-hitting Erickson “Hammer” Lubin battles 2012 U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in a WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator headlining a three-fight event presented by Premier Boxing Champions on Saturday, September 19 live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features Mongolia’s Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar stepping in to face unbeaten Cobia “Soldier” Breedy in the 10-round featherweight co-main event bout. The telecast opener will see one of the top prospects in boxing, unbeaten welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis, squaring off against the Dominican Republic’s Juan Carlos Abreu in a 10-round matchup.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The Ennis vs. Abreu bout is promoted in association with D & D Boxing.

“The super welterweight division is red-hot, and the winner between Erickson Lubin and Terrell Gausha on September 19 will be in a prime position to be the next 154-pound world champion, including a possible matchup against the following week’s Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario winner,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Erickson Lubin has been on a tear since his only loss, showing his growth from the Prospect Of The Year to a top contender. Terrell Gausha has an impressive pedigree dating back to his time as a U.S. Olympian and like Lubin, he can earn a second world title opportunity with a win on September 19. Add in two exciting undercard attractions, and this is yet another fight card on SHOWTIME that boxing fans won’t want to miss.”

The 24-year-old Lubin (22-1, 16 KOs) has put together an impressive four-bout winning streak since a loss to Jermell Charlo in 2017. He became the first person to stop former champion Ishe Smith, and most recently, he dominated Nathaniel Gallimore to earn a decision in October. A native of Orlando, Fla., Lubin is trained by renowned coach Kevin Cunningham as he continues his quest to another title opportunity. After a stellar amateur career, Lubin turned pro at 18 years old in 2013, eventually being named Prospect Of The Year by ESPN and Ring Magazine in 2016.

“I’m focused and ready to make my 2020 debut on SHOWTIME,” said Lubin. “Terrell Gausha has been in the ring with a few good fighters and he’s also an Olympian, so I know he has the experience, but I’m expecting to dominate him. My mindset will be to execute my game plan and come out on top. I’m going to show the world that I’m one of the best 154 pounders out there and I’m ready to put a strap around my waist. It’s Hammer time!”

A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, Gausha (21-1-1, 10 KOs) was born in Cleveland, Ohio but now fights out of Encino, Calif., where he is trained by Manny Robles. The 32-year-old is coming off a split draw against former world champion Austin Trout in May 2019. Gausha won his first 20 professional fights, before suffering his only career defeat in a 2017 world title showdown against Erislandy Lara.

“Training camp has obviously been a little different ahead of this fight, but we’ve done what we need to, and I’ll be ready on September 19,” said Gausha. “This is a big fight for me, being my second chance at getting to a world title. I know Lubin is a young, good fighter and I’m sure he’ll also be ready. But this is my fourth southpaw in a row, so I’m very prepared for this fight and I’m going to show that I’m on another level.”

The 28-year-old Nyambayar (11-0, 9 KOs) won a silver medal representing his native Mongolia in the 2012 Olympics. He now lives and trains in Las Vegas. Nyambayar ascended the featherweight rankings after his extensive amateur career with victories over then unbeaten Harmonito Dela Torre and former interim champion Oscar Escandon. Nyambayar earned his first world title shot before earning the title shot when he defeated former champion Claudio Marrero in January 2019. The Mongolian dropped his most recent fight against long-reigning WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Russell Jr. in February on SHOWTIME.

“I am excited to step in the ring and perform on September 19,” said Nyambayar. “The change in opponent to Breedy will have no effect on me. This is the fight game, so you always have to be prepared. I was already working hard and I will continue to work day by day to be at my very best when I compete on fight night.”

The 28-year-old Breedy (15-0, 5 KOs), from Bridgetown, Barbados and fighting out of Hyattsville, Md., turned pro in 2014 and trains in Barry Hunter’s Headbangers Gym in Washington, D.C. Fighting under the nickname “Soldier”, Breedy served three years in the Barbadian military. Inside the ring, he most recently stopped Titus Williams in December, capping off a successful 2019 where he added three wins to his unblemished record. Having campaigned at both 130 and 135 pounds, Breedy is looking to make a name for himself in the competitive 126-pound division.

“I’m very grateful for this opportunity and I’m thankful to my team for getting me this fight,” said Breedy. “I stay in the gym and I’m always prepared and staying ready. I have that mindset so I can take advantage of any opportunity that comes my way. My opponent is a good fighter, but on September 19, tune in and watch me go to war. The world will get to know who I am. I’m going to give 100 percent. I can do anything in the ring, and I will show it on fight night.”

A native of boxing-rich Philadelphia, Pa., the supremely talented Ennis (25-0, 23 KOs) returns to the ring after stopping Bakhtiyar Eyubov in January. Ennis scored two emphatic knockout victories on ShoBox: The New Generation in 2018 before adding two more KO wins to his ledger in 2019. As his level of opposition has steadily increased since turning professional in 2016, the switch-hitter has scored 15 consecutive knockouts and 13 knockdowns in his six most recent bouts. “Boots,” who has yet to be pushed past the sixth round, was a standout amateur who won the 2015 National Golden Gloves and was ranked as the No. 1 amateur at 141 pounds before turning pro.

“I’m getting better every single day, sharper every single day, and smarter every single day during training camp,” said Ennis. “I don’t know much about my opponent, but not too many guys have been able to withstand my power and I don’t expect this to be any different. I’m just focused on myself, preparing so I can go into the ring, have fun, look phenomenal for everybody tuning in on SHOWTIME and come out victorious.”

Born in the Dominican Republic, Abreu (23-5-1, 21 KOs) has now lived and trained in Salem, Mass., for the last five years. The 33-year-old has battled a slew of top welterweights throughout his career, including Jamal James and Egidijus Kavaliauskas, while also earning a TKO victory over Jesus Soto-Karass. Abreu has never been stopped.

“Jaron Ennis is a great contender with good boxing IQ, speed and decent power, but this is not my first rodeo,” said Abreu. “I have fought first-class opposition and I would like to dance some good Merengue with him. I am having a great camp and I am excited and motivated by this opportunity. It is clear to me that this is a do-or-die fight for me, and therefore, come September 19, I am preparing mentally and physically to leave everything in that ring.”

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing

NEW YORK – March 10, 2020 – Rising 140-pound knockout artist Brandun Lee has a growing reputation within the sport of boxing and can count three accomplished and decorated pros among those who believe he is destined for the very top. Former two-division champion Timothy Bradley, Jr., lightweight champion in recess Devin Haney, and top welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis have seen Lee up close and believe he will soon be a household name among boxing fans.

The undefeated super lightweight Lee (18-0, 16 KOs), who was the subject of the latest installment of SHOWTIME Sports’ DAY IN CAMP digital video franchise, will headline his first ShoBox: The New Generation when he takes on Camilo Prieto (15-2, 10 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight bout on Friday, March 13 live on SHOWTIME (10 ET/PT) from the Grand Casino Hinckley in Hinckley, Minn.

“DAY IN CAMP: Brandun Lee,” a 15-minute special video feature, captures Lee’s family-first mentality, emphasis on the importance of education and hunger for success inside the ring. Viewers are taken through a typical day during Lee’s training camp, which includes sparring, college coursework, cooking, a grueling nighttime workout and a FaceTime call with friend and fellow ShoBox fighter Jaron Ennis. Available for viewing HERE: https://youtu.be/Ow04RVwkpx8

“Brandun is a beast,” said Ennis, who has fought on SHOWTIME in four of his last five fights. “He’s a phenomenal fighter and he’s going to put on a show Friday night. I think he’ll be able to show boxing fans all his skills. He’s a monster. Him being a calm and relaxed fighter sets him apart. He’s really smart as well and has great ring IQ, but you can’t forget about his power because he has the ability to end fights early.”

Bradley and Haney, who are among the list of the 81 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles, have both sparred with Lee and are amazed by the bright prospect’s talent.

Bradley, who appeared on ShoBox four times between 2006-08, including a split-decision over Junior Witter to win the WBC Super Lightweight Championship, recalls sparring with a 14-year-old Lee ahead of Bradley’s fight with Juan Manuel Marquez for the WBO Welterweight Title in 2013. Bradley’s trainer, Joel Diaz, wanted to replicate Marquez’s counterpunching ability and believed Lee’s hand speed and counterpunching were credible.

“Lee and I sparred four complete rounds and, boy, was I impressed with his ring IQ, speed, timing and movement,” said Bradley. “For a young man with no pro experience, he was able to hold his own. Brandun is from my area so I follow him from afar and I really admire his game. He’s undefeated and that’s not surprising at all. I believe Lee has the goods to become a world champion and at this point he is still gaining experience and momentum towards his dream.

“There are still questions that need to be answered by Lee. How will he respond if he is ever knocked down? How will he do against someone just like himself; someone undefeated, stern and just as hungry? It’s going to be fun to watch him as he continues his journey. He has the skill to rise to the top but we all know it takes more than just skills. He’s on the right course and I back him 110 percent.”

Haney, who headlined on the prospect development series on three different occasions, went on to win a world title at the age of 20 and believes Lee has the potential to move up the ranks quite quickly as well.

“If you haven’t heard of Brandun Lee, you will very soon,” said Haney, now 21 years old. “He has the talent and power to make some real noise in the welterweight division. I sparred him before and trust me, he’s a real dog. I’m looking forward to watching on March 13 and I expect my guy to put on a hell of a performance on ShoBox: The New Generation.”

Lee has also sparred with Oxnard, Calif.’s Mikey Garcia, who has fought on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING six times, and Mauricio Herrera, who lost a close decision to then-unified champion Danny Garcia on SHOWTIME in 2014.

Friday’s four-fight ShoBox telecast includes five boxers who have yet to taste defeat with a total record of 107 wins to just four defeats and two draws. In the co-featured bout, undefeated Brian Norman Jr. (16-0, 14 KOs) puts his perfect record on the line as he takes on Flavio Rodriguez (9-1-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight matchup. Undefeated Alejandro Guerrero (11-0, 9 KOs) meets Jose Angulo (12-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight scrap while yet another unbeaten fighter Aram Avagyan (9-0-1, 4 KOs) takes on fellow undefeated Dagoberto Aguero (17-0, 11 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight fight.

Barry Tompkins will call the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with D&D Boxing and Rapacz Boxing, are priced at $75 Ringside, $50 Reserved, $25 General Admission, and $62.50 Table Seating (two-ticket minimum), and are on sale now at ticketmaster.com or the Grand Casino Hinckley Box Office.

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports  

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 81 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

Claressa Shields won a 10-round unanimous decision over Ivana Habazin to win unified WBC/WBO Junior Middleweight titles at Ovation Hall inside the Ocean Casino in Atlantic City.

In round six, Shields scored the 1st knockdown in her career by landing a hard right to the body that sent Habazin to a knee.

Shields dominated the action and became a three-division world champion.

Shields, 153 1/2 lbs of Flint, MI won by scores of 100-90, 100-89 and 99-89 and is now 10-0. Habazin, 152 1/2 lbs of Croatia is 20-4.

Super prospect Jaron Ennis lived up to his billing as he stopped Bakhtiyar Eyubov in round four of a scheduled 10-round welterweight bout.

Ennis came out blazing with powerful and rapid combinations that sent Eyubov to the canvas twice in round one. The bout could have been stopped there, but Eyubov was able to get out of the opening frame. he fought tough and tried to land power punches and got through on a couple of occasions, but Ennis was too good and continued to beat on Eyubov.

Mercifully the bout was stopped 34 seconds into round four with Ennis continuing his assault on Eyubov.

Ennis, 145 3/4 lbs of Philadelphia is 25-0 with 23 knockouts. Eyubov, 146 1/4 lbs of Houston is 14-2-1-1.

“We knew he was coming to fight and bring pressure so we mixed it up,” Ennis said.  “He was a good fighter but he wasn’t really that strong.  I was getting hit a little too much but that’s how we did it to get the knockout. 

“We were just setting him up for power shots.  I just had to calm down, that’s all.  I was too hyped. Once I calmed down and got into my rhythm that was it. 

“He was taking a lot of punishment.  He definitely was a great fighter though.  I appreciate him taking the fight because a lot of guys don’t want to fight me.”

With another dominating performance, Ennis now sets his sights on the upper echelon of one of boxing’s deepest and most exciting divisions.

“We have been wanting all the guys,” Ennis said.  “They keep running.  They can’t run no more.  I’m right here.” 

Ellin Cederroos unified the IBF and WBA Super Middleweight titles with a unanimous decision over Alicia Napoleon Espinonsa.

The two traded power shots throughout the entertaining bout.

In round two, Cedderos dropped Napoleon with a left hook.

In round nine, Napoleon Espinosa was cut around the right eye. Cederroos was bleeding from her nose in the 10th.

The knockdown was the difference as Cederroos, 166 1/2 lbs of Sweden won by scores of 95-94 on all cards. Napoleon Espinosa, 164 lbs of Lyndehurst, NY is 12-2.

“I’m so happy.  I showed that I can box and take a war,” Cederroos said.  “But when I relaxed the punches just came.  It feels so wonderful. Alicia was a great opponent.” 

Napoleon Espinosa was game and hurt the Swedish Cederroos multiple times but she was largely unable to get inside against her taller opponent who consistently landed the bigger punches from a distance. 

“I didn’t think I lost.  I thought that it was fairly close but I thought I was ahead,” Napoleon Espinosa said.  “It is what it is, but I don’t think that I lost this fight. 

“I know she was strong, but I wanted a tough fight.  I know that Elin is an athlete.  I don’t feel that I lost.  I feel like it was close.”

Napoleon Espinosa had been hoping that a win would position her for a 2020 fight with Claressa Shields at middleweight with all four of Shields’ 160-pound titles on the line.  

“Congrats on the fight with Shields because that was what I was looking forward to,” Napoleon Espinosa said.

NEW YORK – December 17, 2019 – Undefeated welterweight sensation Jaron Ennis will make his 2020 debut against hard-hitting Bakhtiyar Eyubov on Friday, January 10 live on SHOWTIME from Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City.

The 22-year-old Ennis (24-0, 22 KOs) will take on Kazakhstan’s Eyubov (14-1-1, 12 KOs) just an hour away from his hometown of Philadelphia in the 10-round co-main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION tripleheader that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. 

Two women’s blockbusters will bookend the welterweight bout.  Claressa Shields (9-0, 2 KOs) will take on Ivana Habazin (20-3, 7 KOs) for the WBC and WBO 154-pound World Championships in a long-anticipated main event.  In the telecast opener, WBA Super Middleweight Champion Alicia Napoleon Espinosa (12-1, 7 KOs) meets IBF Champion Elin Cederroos (7-0, 4 KOs) in a 168-pound world title unification.

The event is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with T-REX BOXING PROMOTIONS. The Napoleon-Espinosa vs Cederroos fight is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment.

In Eyubov, Ennis will take on his toughest test to date as he looks to continue his rapid ascension in one boxing’s deepest divisions.  The switch-hitter has scored 14 consecutive knockouts as has his level opposition has steadily increased since turning professional in 2016.  He returned from a nine-month layoff in August of 2019 with a first round TKO of Franklin Mamani and followed that up with a third round TKO of Demian Fernandez on October 5.  Against Fernandez, the come-forward and aggressive Ennis landed 43 percent of his power shots as he switched from orthodox to southpaw in a clinical performance in the main event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION.  

Widely regarded as one of the top prospects in boxing, Ennis had two emphatic knockout victories on ShoBox: The New Generation in 2018.  The Philadelphia native, who owns 10 first round knockouts and has yet to be pushed past the sixth round, was a standout amateur who won the 2015 National Golden Gloves was ranked as the No. 1 amateur at 141 pounds before turning pro.

“I’m coming to make another statement to the welterweight division and the world,” said Ennis.  “I’m going to let them know that I’m here and that 2020 will be my year.  I’m the future of this division and January 10 is the next step in proving that.” 

The 33-year-old Eyubov, from Aktobe, Kazakhstan and currently based in Brooklyn, N.Y., is known for his relentlessly aggressive fighting style. Quickly making a name for himself in the welterweight division, Eyubov tore through his first ten professional opponents, knocking them all out within the first three rounds including a third-round stoppage of Jared Robinson on ShoBox in 2016. Eyubov also owns impressive wins over Nicholas Givan (21-2-1) and Karim Mayfield (21-5-1) but is winless in his last two outings, including a majority draw with Jose Luis Rodriguez and a unanimous decision loss to undefeated Brian Ceballo. With just 16 professional fights to his name since moving on from the amateur ranks in 2012, Eyubov is eager to turn heads with a career-defining win over the highly regarded Ennis.

“On January 10, Jaron Ennis is going to be in the hardest fight of his life,” Eyubov said.  “He has never faced anyone with my strength, skills and will to win.  Bakha Bullet will shoot to do damage in Atlantic City and hand Ennis his first loss.” 

“The Ennis vs. Eyubov fight is a classic crossroads fight and a must-win for both fighters,” said Eyubov promoter Dmitriy Salita.  “It’s a big test for Ennis, who is a slick, skilled boxer, and a potentially career-changing opportunity for the aggressive, powerful and formerly world-rated contender in Eyubov.  We expect fireworks on January 10^th.

The previously announced WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator between Shohjahon Ergashev and Keith Hunter has been postponed after Hunter injured his right hand during training.  A new date and opponent for Ergashev will be announced in the coming days.

An industry leading production team and announce crew will deliver all the sights, sounds and drama from Atlantic City. Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer will host the telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will call the action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi at ringside. Three Hall of Famers round out the SHOWTIME announce team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial ringside scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The Executive Producer of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION is David Dinkins, Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing. The telecast will be available in Spanish via Secondary Audio Programing (SAP) with Alejandro Luna and former world champion Raul Marquez calling the action.

Top prospect Jaron Ennis continued his meteoric rise as he stopped Demain Fernandez in round three of their scheduled 10-round welterweight bout in Flint, Michigan.

In round three, Ennis landed a heavy barrage of punches that sent Fernandez to the canvas. Seconds later, Fernandez turned to his corner and the bout was stopped at 2:10.

Ennis, 146 1/4 lbs of Philadelphia is now 24-0 with 22 knockouts. Fernandez, 146 1/2 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 12-2.

Jermaine Franklin won a 10-round unanimous decision over Pavel Sour in a heavyweight bout.

In round six, Franklin dropped Sour with a nice right hand. In round 10, Franklin landed a hard combination that was followed by a right hand that sent Sour crashing down on the ropes.

Franklin, 231 1/2 lbs of Saginaw, MI win by scores of 98-91, 98-90 and 97-91 and is now 20-0. Sour, 238 lbs of Czech Republic s 11-2.

NOTE—The main event between Claressa Shields and Ivana Habizan was cancelled after Shields’ brother sucker-punched and severely hurt Habizan’s trainer James Ali Basheer at Friday’s weigh-in.

FLINT, Mich. – October 4, 2019 – The Claressa Shields vs. Ivana Habazin WBO and WBC 154-pound world title fight has been called off following an altercation prior to Friday’s official weigh-in that resulted in an injury to Habazin’s trainer, James Ali Bashir. Without her chief second available for Saturday night, Habazin withdrew from the fight.

The remainder of the event, featuring as many as seven bouts promoted by Salita Promotions will proceed as scheduled from the Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center in Flint.

SHOWTIME will televise a two-fight card featuring undefeated welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis of Philadelphia taking on Argentina’s Demian Daniel Fernandez in a 10-round 147-pound bout. In the telecast opener, unbeaten heavyweight prospect Jermaine Franklin of Saginaw, Mich., will face once-beaten Pavel Šour in a 10-round heavyweight bout. SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION airs live as planned at 9p ET/6p PT.

Ennis (23-0, 21 KOs) weighed in at 146.2 pounds and Fernandez (12-1, 5 KOs) at 146.6 pounds. Franklin weighed in at 231.4 pounds and Šour at 238 pounds.

Still scheduled for action off-TV is the “All Detroit” 10-round showdown between West Detroit’s WBO No. 13-rated super flyweight Jarico “Great Lakes King” O’Quinn (12-0-1, 8 KOs) and East Detroit’s James “O.G.” Smith (13-2, 7 KOs), as well as Scotland’s Hannah Rankin (7-3, 1 KO) taking on California-based veteran Erin Toughill (7-5-1) in a six-round showcase.

Also fighting will be Flint, Mich., cruiserweight Robert Simms (9-3, 3 KOs) going into a six-round battle against Demetrius Banks of Detroit (10-8-1, 5 KOs); undefeated Kazakhstani heavyweight Izim Izbaki (2-0, 1 KO) facing Mount Morris, Michigan’s Troy Albring over four rounds; and undefeated welterweight Jacob Bonas (3-0-1, 2 KOs), one of the last of the young fighters trained by the late, great Emanuel Steward, taking on Indiana’s Norfleet Stitts in a four-rounder.

NEW YORK – September 20, 2019 – Undefeated welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis will face Demian Daniel Fernandez in his return to national television on Saturday, October 5 live on SHOWTIME. 

The highly touted Ennis (23-0, 21 KOs) will fight on TV for the first time in nearly a year against once-beaten Argentinian Fernandez (12-1, 5 KOs) in a 10-round co-featured bout on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION beginning live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from Dort Federal Events Center in Flint, Mich. 

VIDEO: https://twitter.com/ShowtimeBoxing/status/1175084862816116736

With the addition of the 22-year-old Ennis to the October 5 card, two young American prospects from boxing’s glamour divisions will share the spotlight on the undercard of Claressa Shields vs. Ivana Habazin. In the opening bout of the telecast, undefeated, 25-year-old heavyweight Jermaine Franklin (19-0, 13 KOs) will make his third consecutive SHOWTIME appearance of 2019 as he seeks a definitive victory against once-beaten Pavel Šour (11-1, 6 KOs). 

“I’m really excited to be on this show for my first big fight of 2019,” Ennis said. “I want to thank Stephen Espinoza and everyone at SHOWTIME for the opportunity. I’m looking forward to reminding everybody who I am and what I’m capable of doing. We have big plans for the future, but the first step is a statement win on October 5.”

Philadelphia’s Ennis returned from a nine-month layoff due to a promotional dispute in August, picking up where he left off with a first-round TKO of Franklin Mamani. Ennis has now scored 13 straight knockouts, including two emphatic victories on ShoBox: The New Generation in 2018.

Ennis was a standout amateur before turning professional in 2016, winning the 2015 National Golden Gloves and earning a No. 1 ranking as the top amateur at 141 pounds. Since turning pro, Ennis has stormed through his first 23 opponents while his level of opposition has steadily increased. The aggressive and come-forward welterweight owns 10 first round knockouts and has yet to be pushed past the sixth round. 

Fernandez, of Buenos Aires, turned professional in 2014 and has earned 12 victories in 13 fights while mostly campaigning in Argentina. The 30-year-old has fought in three scheduled 10-rounders, including in his U.S. debut in his most recent bout on August 10 in Detroit. The aggressive, come-forward Fernandez suffered the lone blemish on his record in 2014 less than two months after turning professional. The welterweight has since rallied off nine straight victories and looks forward to making a statement in his national television debut.    

“This will be my second fight in the U.S. and I’m excited to show I’m ready for the spotlight,” said Fernandez.  “I would like to thank my promoter, Dequan with CMC Promotions, for giving me this opportunity. I know I’m the underdog but I want the fans to know I am coming to knock him out. Vamonos!”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and at the Dort Center box office. 

Barry Tompkins will call the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips

NEW YORK – August 22, 2019 – Undefeated welterweight prospect Jaron “Boots” Ennis will return to action this Friday, August 23 on the non-televised undercard of ShoBox: The New Generation from Main Street in Broken Arrow, Okla. SHOWTIME will show highlights of Ennis’ long-awaited return during Friday’s telecast in anticipation of a nationally televised fight this fall on the network.   

The highly touted Ennis (22-0, 20 KOs), of Philadelphia, has scored 12 straight knockouts, including two emphatic victories on ShoBox in 2018. The 22-year-old returns for his first fight since November of last year as he looks to continue his rapid progression in one of boxing’s glamour divisions. 

“I have been out of the ring for nine months, but I have been training every day,” Ennis said. “There won’t be any ring rust, because I never took a break. I’m ready to put on a show, get the win, and get back on TV in the fall. I’m focused on Friday’s fight, and I’m ready to show that I’m the future of the welterweight division.”   

“Jaron Ennis is without question one of the most talented young fighters in boxing and we look forward to working with him as he continues his climb up the welterweight ladder,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “With eye-catching power, speed and charisma, Jaron possess all the tools to become a star, and we’re excited to be part of that journey moving forward.”

Ennis was a standout amateur before turning professional in 2016, winning the 2015 National Golden Gloves and earning a No. 1 ranking as the top amateur at 141 pounds. Since turning pro, Ennis has stormed through his first 22 opponents while his level of opposition has steadily increased. The aggressive and come-forward welterweight owns nine first round knockouts and has yet to be pushed past the sixth round. 

One of boxing’s most highly regarded prospects, Ennis was sidelined for the first half of 2019 while he resolved a promotional dispute. Ennis will face Franklin Mamani (23-5-1, 13 KOs) this Friday in Broken Arrow and, pending the outcome, will look to return this Fall in a televised bout on SHOWTIME. 

BROKEN ARROW, OKLAHOMA – August 8, 2019 – Two of boxing’s most promising prospects, Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Brandun Lee make their much-anticipated ring returns in separate bouts on Friday, August 23 on the undercard of the Rumble in the Rose District on Main Street in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

Jaron “Boots” Ennis (22-0, 20KO) is widely considered to be the best prospect to come out of Philadelphia in recent years. Ennis, who is coming off a knockout win over Raymond Serrano last December, is slated to face Bolivia’s Franklin Mamani in a 10 round, junior middleweight bout.

California’s Brandun Lee (15-0, 13KO) is also back in a six round welterweight contest versus Mexico’s Francisco Medel. Lee, who is only 20 years old, is quickly becoming known as a big puncher with an impeccable work ethic.

The two fights will take place on the untelevised undercard of ShoBox The New Generation, which is topped by Vladimir Shinskin vs. DeAndre Ware.

“I’m very excited to get them back in the ring,” said Now Boxing Promotions’ founder Cameron Dunkin. “These are perfect fights to get them ready for bigger and better televised opportunities. We’re grateful to Stephen Espinoza of Showtime for the opportunity.”

Tickets for Rumble in the Rose District are priced $52 and are available at rosedistrict.com. First bell is at 6:30p.m. Follow Now Boxing Promotions on Facebook and Instagram at @nowboxingpromo to stay up to date on the Now Boxing Promotions stable of fighters.

PHILADELPHIA (November 17, 2018) – Undefeated welterweight Jaron Ennis electrified his hometown crowd with a devastating second-round knockout of Raymond Serrano in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation in front of a standing-room only crowd at 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. Watch the knockout here: https://s.sho.com/2TlRIDm

The main event of the telecast – which featured five ShoBox veterans and three fighters who call Philadelphia home – did not last long. The battle-tested Serrano (24-6, 10 KOs), whose six professional losses have come against opponents with a combined fight night record of 111-1-1, proved to be no match for Ennis. The flashy southpaw with a deadly combination of speed and power scored three highlight reel knockdowns in round two, and capped off the night with an explosive uppercut to the jaw. The 21-year-old Ennis (22-0, 20 KOs) has now knocked out 12 consecutive opponents and has proven his worth as one of boxing’s brightest prospects.

“It was a good fight, I was just in there having fun,” said Ennis, who is trained by his father Bozy. “My dad said to start touching the body and that set up the big shots. That’s exactly what I did.

“I knew after the first knockdown, the fight was over. He’s a good fighter and it looks good to have his name on my resume. I’m ready for anybody in my division. I will knock any of them out.”

Ennis wouldn’t speculate if he was the best prospect in the U.S. “I don’t like to talk,” he said. “I do my talking in the ring.”

In the middle bout of the tripleheader, Philadelphia’s Sam Teah (14-2-1, 7 KOs) energized the hometown crowd by putting in a dominating performance en route to a unanimous decision (79-73 and 77-75 twice) over Chicago’s Kenneth Sims Jr. (13-2-1, 4 KOs). Click HERE for the highlights.

Cheered on by chants of his nickname “Tsunami”, the 31-year-old Teah utilized his jab and set the pace throughout the eight rounds. Executing a clever game plan, Teah beat the volume-punching Sims at his own game as he averaged nearly 86 punches per round to Sims’ 59. After an even first two rounds, Teah began to pull away, as he landed 164 punches to just 91 for Sims in rounds three through eight. Teah grew stronger throughout the fight, and put the contest out of question in the final two rounds as he out-landed Sims, 53-28.

“Oh my goodness, this feels great,” said an overjoyed Teah. “This is my biggest stage. I’ve fought on SHOWTIME several times but now I’m at home in front of my friends and family and the energy was amazing. Body shots and uppercuts; that was the game plan. I had more in my arsenal to show tonight. My head might look like an acorn by tomorrow, but it’s worth it.

“I’m asking for the biggest fights,” he continued. “This is what I asked for. Let’s level up and whatever’s biggest next, let’s do it.”

Unified 154-pound world champion Jarrett Hurd, of Accokeek, Md., was in attendance at the jam-packed 2300 Arena and spoke to SHOWTIME’s Steve Farhood about his upcoming bout with Jason Welborn. Hurd returns to the ring to defend his IBF and WBA titles on the Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury SHOWTIME PPV event on December 1 in Los Angeles in his first fight since undergoing rotator cuff surgery. Watch the interview here: https://s.sho.com/2Fti97o

In the telecast opener, undefeated Ukrainian prospect Arnold Khegai (14-0-1, 9 KOs) kept his unbeaten record intact with a hotly contested unanimous decision win over New Brunswick, N.J. native Jorge Diaz (19-6-1, 10 KOs), who announced his retirement immediately following the fight. The judges scored the fight 79-72, 77-74 twice. Click HERE for highlights.

Khegai, known for his aggressive come-forward style, stayed true to his reputation by pressing the action early. Despite suffering a cut over his left eye after an accidental clash of heads in the fourth round, Khegai was more accurate in all phases while Diaz’s activity made the fight competitive throughout the first five rounds. Khegai dazed Diaz in the fifth with a big left hook and followed it up by scoring the only knockdown of the fight in the sixth, landing a combination that forced Diaz to a knee. Tied at 122 total connects after seven rounds, Khegai clinched the fight with a huge eighth and final round where he landed 31 power punches to just 13 for Diaz.

“I’m very excited to get the win against a very uncomfortable fighter,” said Khegai through an interpreter. “He was tough and I had to stick to my game plan. He was doing different things and leaning in with his head. My main idea was to win the fight and I tried to get the knockout.

“I think I can fight a top 15 fighter next time and someday win a world title. Of course, it’s important to look good on SHOWTIME, but it’s even more important to have a good fight in America and to get the win. That’s what is most important.”

Diaz showed toughness and grit throughout the fight. “I am done. I am retiring,” he said. “I have so much more to do and accomplish in life. I gave it my all in rounds seven and eight. I got caught with a body shot in the last round and that’s when he jumped on me. I think he won because of the last round.”

Tonight’s tripleheader was promoted by Victory Promotions in association with Hard Hitting Promotions.

The full telecast will replay on Monday, November 19 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®.

Barry Tompkins called the action from ringside with boxing analyst and historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer was Gordon Hall with Chuck McKean producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 78 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

PHILADELPHIA (November 15, 2018) – One of boxing’s top prospects, undefeated welterweight Jaron Ennis and veteran Raymond Serrano made weight just a day before their ShoBox: The New Generation 10-round main event that headlines a tripleheader live on SHOWTIME (9:35 p.m. ET/PT) from 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. The 21-year-old Ennis (21-0, 19 KOs) returns for his second ShoBox challenge of 2018 against Serrano (24-5, 10 KOs) in a battle of Philadelphia fighters facing off in their hometown.

The three-fight telecast features five ShoBox veterans and three fighters who call Philadelphia home. In the co-feature, a pair of ShoBox veterans meet when Chicago’s Kenneth Sims Jr. (13-1-1, 4 KOs) takes on Philadelphia’s Samuel Teah (14-2-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight bout.

Also on the card, undefeated Ukrainian Arnold Khegai (13-0-1, 9 KOs) faces New Jersey’s Jorge Diaz (19-5-1, 10 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight bout.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by Victory Promotions in association with Hard Hitting Promotions, are priced $50, $75 and $125 and can be purchased at 2300arena.com and hardhittingpromotions.com.

FINAL WEIGHTS

Jaron Ennis – 145 pounds – Ramond Serrano 146 3/4
Kennthe Sims Jr. 139 – Samuel Teah 130 3/4
Arnold Khegai 121 3/4 – Jorge Diaz 121 3.4

Undercard weights beginning at 6:30 PM ET

Branden Pizarro 137 1/2 lbs – Jerome Rodriguez 140 lbs
Gadwin Rosa 129 3/4 lbs – German Meraz 128 1/2
Kieran Hooks 149 1/4 lbs – Gledwin Ortiz 149 1/2
Christian Tapia 134 1/2 – Darnell Pettis 133 1/2
Benny Sinakin 171 3/4 lbs – Darren Gibbs 172 1/2
David Stevens 193 1/4 – Judd Brown 188 3/4

** NOTE: Referees and judges for the three televised fights have yet to be determined.

FINAL QUOTES:

JARON ENNIS

“I’m really looking forward to fighting in front of my hometown fans. There is going to be a packed-house and I’m so excited for this fight. Some fighters don’t like the pressure of fighting in front of their own people, but I can’t wait to show out. I will definitely have no trouble getting up for this fight.

“A Philly fighter is a different kind of fighter. A Philly fighter is going to bring it to you and show off their abilities. I feel like we are the best fighters. There’s a lot of pride in being from here. I get to put on for Philly and show SHOWTIME and the world my talents. Philly fighters always come to fight.

“I don’t know too much about Serrano. I never worry about my opponent or watch tape or anything. We don’t prepare for one guy, we mix it up in the gym because you never know how the guy is going to fight on fight night. We prepare for everything.

“He thinks he has more experience than me. No, he doesn’t. I grew up in this sport. I’ve been in the gym since I was in a jumper. I’ve seen it all. I got to see my brothers fight growing up. I’ve sparred pros since I was 12-years-old. They always say I don’t have the experience and I’ve never fought anybody. We’ll see. There’s nothing this guy can do.

“I’m just going to keep winning and knocking guys out until I get to the point where I can fight a contender. I’m ready right now, but I know I have to be patient. I’m only 21-years-old, so I have time but we’re ready right now.

“This fight is definitely going to be something different, I promise you that it’s not lasting long. I’m so focused, I’m ready to rock and roll. I can’t wait.”

RAYMOND SERRANO:

“Right now, I feel like I’m in a position where I can compete against any of the top guys. I fought Alex Saucedo, and honestly, I thought I won that fight. I believe after that fight, it took me to another level. My confidence grew and I knew that I could compete with anybody.

“I feel comfortable going forward and putting pressure on. If I have to box, I can box too. I feel comfortable being on the inside now, and it hasn’t always been that way.

“I’ve been in the position where I’ve been fighting undefeated guys. Everybody is against me but I love that. He’s the one with all the pressure, he has to prove that he’s as good as everybody says he is. He’s never seen anybody like me. Everybody he’s fought recently, I beat them years ago.

“Ennis looks good. He’s a strong fighter that’s coming to fight but so will I. I think this will be a good fight. My last fight, I was fighting the best fight of my career before it had to be stopped. I went into [Gerome] Quigley’s hometown and I was winning that fight.

“There’s going to be a lot of people in the crowd that want to see me lose. Ennis is the hot prospect with all the fans, but I think I may switch some people’s opinion. Beating Ennis will put me in the position to fight anybody.

“His chin has never been tested. I’ve never seen him uncomfortable in any fight, it’s all been pretty easy for him. I will test him.”

KENNETH SIMS JR.:

“I’m really disappointed to be 1-1-1- on ShoBox. I feel like I should be 2-1, I should have won the fight I drew. But I do think the loss was a really good learning experience, and I needed it. It really helped me learn more about myself and what I need to do better. There’s always more to learn.

“I need to get physically stronger. I’m working on my strength and conditioning right now. When I fought Montana [Love], I only had been training with my new strength and conditioning coach for three weeks. Now, I’ve had the full camp with him. I’m learning more about my body and how important rest is and not to just always push myself too hard.

“When I transitioned to being a pro, I really needed to learn how to relax. When I first fought on TV, I put so much pressure on myself to perform and there was a lot of expectations.

“Every fight is a fight that I need to impress in. Every fight, I want to show something different. I’m known for my speed, but I feel like I haven’t shown all of my skills onShoBox yet.

“I feel like Teah is going to try to press me. I don’t think he’s going to realize how strong I really am. I just want to make him work, and I don’t want to give him any down time. I don’t want to let him rest.

“I just really like fighting. When I was younger, my dad had to remind me that I’m a boxer, and I’m good at boxing. But I couldn’t help it, I just wanted to fight. Now, I’ve realized that I need to be a boxer.

“I’m always active. Even when I’m not training, I stay in the gym and I spar once a week. Training in Houston has been great, being around other professionals that are trying to do the same thing as me is great for my development. I train with O’Shaquie Foster, we’ve known each other since we were little and we really push each other in the gym.

“I watched him fight Montana [Love], and I watched him fight O’Shaquie. I think he’s a good fighter, but I want to make him doubt himself right from the beginning.”

SAM TEAH:

“I was under the weather my last fight. I don’t want to make excuses, but my inactivity lost that fight not what he did. I was fighting very conservatively, instead of just putting everything on the line. I was too worried about tiring myself out and that was one of the key factors in deciding that fight. I’m one hundred percent for this fight and it will be a different story.

“I feel like this is my biggest stage yet. I’ve fought in Vegas, but this is as big as it gets for me. Everybody that knows me and has followed my career will either be here at the arena or watching on TV.

“I watched him fight live once here in Philadelphia. I’ve seen him box and I’ve seen him brawl and try to be the matador. He’s a great fighter, he’s very versatile. I don’t think he has great power, but he can box. I think his stamina might be an issue. He works at a very high rate, but I know he can’t keep that pace for the entire fight. The pace will drop after a couple rounds, and then it will become a more technical fight.

“He can watch all the tape on me that he wants, he’s never seen the type of performance he’s going to get tomorrow night. You guys will see the real Tsunami.”

ARNOLD KHEGAI:

“I was nervous my first fight on ShoBox, but all the nerves are gone, this time I’m going to show what I’m really about.

“In my last fight, I just wanted to show that I could outbox somebody in America. That’s what I did, and now I’m really going to show what I’m all about.

“It’s a totally different level in the U.S. The fighters are much stronger than in Moscow. It’s also much more professional with all of the medical treatment and the facilities. I think it will help me that I’ve already fought here in the U.S., I know exactly what to expect and I know what the atmosphere will be like.

“I only know that Diaz fought Adam Lopez, the same opponent that I had. I’ve watched him a little bit, and I see this as a war. I think we’re going to brawl with each other, and it will be a really interesting fight.

“If I win this fight in style, then either the next fight or the one after I think I’ll be in position to fight a real contender.”

JORGE DIAZ:

“I haven’t fought in a year, but I’ll be as sharp as I’ve ever been tomorrow night. I’ve been in the gym training non-stop, and I’ve gotten my nutrition and my training right. We’ve been very rigorous with our nutrition, in terms of what we put in our body. I’m ready to go.

“I used to be just a fighter. I didn’t know about the Sweet Science of boxing and about what separates the good boxers from the great ones: rhythm, distance and timing. It’s not about who runs the fastest, otherwise lions and tigers would be running the world. It’s about your intelligence. And that’s what I needed to learn and what I have finally figured out.

“Arnold [Khegai] is in over his head. I’ve watched tape. He’s a basic fighter. He comes forward. He doesn’t know how to box moving backwards. He doesn’t know anything about rhythm, distance and timing. We’re going to outbox him, but it’s going to look aggressive.

“This is the most important fight of my life. This guy is standing between me and everything that I want. He’s standing between me and the well-being of my family and all of my dreams.”

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 78 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

NEW YORK (Nov. 13, 2018) – Headed to the Fighting City of Philadelphia once again on Friday, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast will deliver a full, explosive, seven-bout card presented by Hard Hitting Promotions and Victory Boxing. Some of Philly’s finest prospects will be in action live on any device wherever Facebook is available beginning at 6:30 p.m. E.T. on Friday, Nov. 16, before ShoBox: The New Generation hits the airwaves at 9:35 p.m. E.T./P.T. with a tripleheader featuring undefeated welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis (21-0, 19 KOs) as he takes on Raymond “Tito” Serrano (24-5, 10 KOs) in a red-hot, all-Philly matchup.

“We’re excited as always to work with the Hard Hitting Team and showcase their stable of up-and-coming prospects, this time with some hardware at stake,” said Mark Fratto, Principal and Director of Business Development, Linacre Media. “Working on a card alongside ShoBox is a great step for our platform, and one that we have discussed for a while now. It will be great to see every outstanding bout on the card make air during another epic night of action in Philadelphia.”

On Friday, live from 2300 Arena in the City of Brotherly Love, a pair of National Boxing Association (NBA) belts are on the line. Outstanding area prospects Branden Pizarro (12-1, 6 KOs) and Gadwin Rosa (8-0, 7 KOs) could walk out wearing the first championship straps of their young, promising careers, while Christian Tapia (6-0, 5 KOs), Angel Pizarro (4-0, 3 KOs) and Benny Sinakin (1-0) will risk their impressive undefeated records in front of a raucous hometown crowd and a global audience on Facebook.

“Hard Hitting Promotions is excited to team with FIGHTNIGHT LIVE once again for Friday’s event,” said Manny Rivera of Team Hard Hitting. “FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is a great partner that gives Hard Hitting Promotions a platform to showcase our talent and NBA title fights around the world. Combined with the power of SHOWTIME Boxing on Friday, Philly once again makes a case as the Boxing Capital of the East Coast – that’s Hard Hitting’s Mission!”

Now in its second season, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Powered by Everlast is the fan-friendly series that – among other aspects – prides itself on the real-time conversations held between fight commentators and the viewing audience. FIGHTNIGHT LIVE has showcased more than 399 fighters and 12 promotions during 22 live event broadcasts from 15 different cities since May 2017, and in doing so, the interactive platform has generated the loyal interest of fight fans from across the United States and around the globe, including significant audiences in Mexico, the United Kingdom and other parts of Europe, and even fans in South America, Asia and Australia.

Since May 2017, the numbers on the 22-show FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series showed promise and potential for the new platform with an average of 136,405 views per event and more than 3.0 million total views for the franchise. Since Sept. 2018, Season II shows have averaged more than 315,000 views.

The Sept. 2018 “Kings Boxing Tuesday Night Fights” (594,447) from the Sands in Bethlehem, the Oct. 2018 “Hard Hitting Philly Special” (297,545), the Oct. 2018 hour-long Bareknuckle “Freeview” (292,253), the Sept. 2017 “Real Deal Promotions: Empire State” from Resorts World Casino (225,000), the August 2017 CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (203,000), the Oct. 2018 CES “Super Saturday” from Foxwoods (196,656), the Sept. 2018 “Card Fit For Kings” from Philadelphia (195,620), the Sept. 2017 CES “Twin River Twinbill” from Lincoln, R.I. (157,000) and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” (151,253) all logged 150,000 or more views, and collectively the 22-show series has seen a total of 3,000,915 views across all devices.

In addition to the raw viewership numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly productions have seen more than 266,000 collective live post engagements (more than 12,000 per show), including more than 198,000 “likes” or “loves,” more than 40,000 comments and more than 13,000 shares.

The Sept. 2018 “Kings Boxing Tuesday Night Fights” from the Sands in Bethlehem set a new bar with 594,447 views and the Sept. 2017 DiBella-CES doubleheader carried the series to three-quarters-of-a-million views in just over four months. The Sept. 2017 DiBella card saw more than 40,000 viewer interactions including almost 39,000 “likes” or “loves” and the March 17, 2018, Murphy’s “St. Patrick’s Day Clash” set a new high-water mark for shares with 2,182.

The FIGHTNIGHT LIVE page on Facebook has more than 83,000 fans and more than 88,000 followers.

Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features professional announcers, multiple camera angles, television graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.

More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Winter 2018 dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/

Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and @FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag #FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or #LinacreMediaOnTV.

About Everlast Worldwide Inc.
The preeminent brand in boxing since 1910, Everlast is the world’s leading manufacturer, marketer and licensor of boxing, MMA and fitness equipment. From legendary champions Jack Dempsey and Sugar Ray Robinson to current superstars Deontay Wilder and Dustin Poirier, Everlast is the brand of choice for generations of world champion professional athletes. Built on a brand heritage of strength, dedication, individuality and authenticity, Everlast is a necessary part of the lives of countless champions. Based in Manhattan, Everlast’s products are sold across more than 75 countries and 6 continents. For more information, visit www.everlast.com.

PHILADELPHIA — October 26, 2018 — A bevy of prospects will be on display as part of the non-televised undercard of ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, November 16 at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Highly-touted junior welterweight Branden Pizarro will see action in an eight-round bout as he takes on Jerome Rodriguez.

The 19-year-old Pizarro, of Philadelphia, is a two-year professional with a record of 12-1 with six knockouts. One of the top amateurs in the country before turning professional, Pizarro has a knockout win over Abdiel Padilla. In his last bout, Pizarro stopped 30-fight veteran Justin Johnson in two rounds on October 6 at The 2300 Arena.

Rodriguez, of Allentown, Penn., has a record of 7-10-3 with two knockouts. The 32 year-old has big wins over Tre’Sean Wiggins (3-0) and world-ranked Avery Sparrow (4-0). Rodriguez, who has fought 10 undefeated opponents, is coming off a unanimous decision loss to Jeremy Cuevas on October 6 at The 2300 Arena.

In a six-round bout, Gadwyn Rosa (8-0, 7 KOs) of Ocala, Fla., will take on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.

In four-round non-televised bouts:

Kieran Hooks (3-1-1, 1 KO), of Philadelphia, takes on Gledwin Ortiz (5-2-1, 4 KOs) of Bronx, N.Y. in a super welterweight bout;

Christian Tapia (6-0, 5 KOs), of Coamao, PR, will take on an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.

Benny Sinakin (1-0), of Philadelphia, takes on an opponent to be named in a light heavyweight bout.

Angel Pizarro (4-0, 3 KOs), of Philadelphia, will take on an opponent to be named in a super bantamweight bout.

Former top-amateur standout, David Stevens, of Reading, Penn, will make his pro debut in a cruiserweight bout.

In the previously announced main event, highly touted unbeaten welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis will square off against 11-year professional Raymond Serrano in a Philadelphia vs. Philadelphia 10-round bout in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation live on SHOWTIME® at 9:35 p.m. ET/PT from 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.
In the co-feature, a pair of ShoBox veterans meet when Chicago’s Kenneth Sims Jr. (13-1-1, 4 KOs) takes on Philadelphia’s Samuel Teah of Hard Hitting Promotions (14-2-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight bout. Also on the card, undefeated Ukrainian Arnold Khegai (13-0-1, 9 KOs) faces New Jersey’s Jorge Diaz (19-5-1, 10 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight bout.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by Victory Promotions in association with Hard Hitting Promotions are priced $50, $75 and $125 and can be purchased at 2300arena.com and hardhittingpromotions.com.

NEW YORK — October 24, 2018 — Highly touted unbeaten welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis will square off against 11-year professional Raymond Serrano in a Philadelphia vs. Philadelphia 10-round bout in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation, Friday, November 16 live on SHOWTIME® at 9:35 p.m. ET/PT from 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Ennis (21-0, 19 KOs) has knocked out 11 consecutive opponents including a third-round stoppage of Armando Alvarez in his ShoBox debut in July (Click HERE for video). The 21-year-old Ennis, who compiled an amateur record of 58-3 and was the 2015 National Golden Gloves Champion before turning professional in 2016, faces a stern test in fellow Philadelphia native Raymond Serrano (24-5, 10 KOs), a 29-fight veteran who’s five losses have come against opponents with a combined record of 89-1-1 at the time of their meeting.

The three-fight telecast features five ShoBox veterans and three fighters who call Philadelphia home. In the co-feature, a pair of ShoBox veterans meet when Chicago’s Kenneth Sims Jr. (13-1-1, 4 KOs) takes on Philadelphia’s Samuel Teah (14-2-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight bout.

Also on the card, undefeated Ukrainian Arnold Khegai (13-0-1, 9 KOs) faces New Jersey’s Jorge Diaz (19-5-1, 10 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight bout.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by Victory Promotions in association with Hard Hitting Promotions are priced $50, $75 and $125 and can be purchased at 2300arena.com and hardhittingpromotions.com.

Ennis returns to ShoBox for his second consecutive fight following a statement third-round knockout of then-unbeaten welterweight prospect Armando Alvarez in July. Making a name for himself in Philadelphia with his power and come-forward mentality, Ennis has scored 11 consecutive KO victories including two at 2300 Arena. A standout amateur who was ranked No. 1 at 141 pounds and won the 2015 National Golden Gloves tournament, Ennis narrowly missed the opportunity to represent the U.S. in the 2016 Olympics after losing a box-off to Gary Antuanne Russell at the Olympic Trials.

“Serrano is just another opponent on my way to my ultimate goal – a world championship,” said Ennis. “I am focused and I’m just going to keep working hard until I am able to accomplish that main goal. I can’t wait to display my talent once again on ShoBox.”

The 21-year-old Ennis currently trains under his father Derek “Bozy” Ennis Sr., who also trained his other sons Derek Jr. and Farah, both ShoBox veterans.

The 29-year-old Serrano turned professional in 2007 and rattled off 18 consecutive wins to start his career. Serrano, who will appear on ShoBox for the first time since his 2013 meeting with Emmanuel Taylor, will face his third consecutive unbeaten opponent after a No Contest against Gerome Quigley Jr. and a unanimous decision loss to 22-year-old welterweight prospect Malik Hawkins. Serrano, also from Philadelphia, had an impressive amateur career, winning the national and international Junior Olympic tournaments in 2005 and the Pennsylvania State Golden Gloves in 2006.

“I am excited – this is Philly vs. Philly,” said Serrano. “We are two of the best welterweights going at it. I believe my experience with my new trainer Shadeed Saluki will help me in this fight and I do not think he has been in the ring with anyone like me. I am excited to be on ShoBox because the world will see my talents. With a win, this will lead me to even bigger fights.”

Sims, a Chicago native, returns to ShoBox after his action-packed split-draw with unbeaten prospect Montana Love in July. Sims suffered the first and only loss of his career against Rolando Chinea via close majority decision on ShoBox a year prior but got back to his winning ways with a unanimous decision over Andrew Rodgers on October 13. The 24-year-old, who has sparred with Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, was a 2013 U.S. National Amateur Champion and a 2012 Olympic Trials semifinalist.

“I am ready to fight,” said Sims. “I just fought on October 13 and got right back in the gym, so I am already in good shape. Teah is a good fighter but he is nothing special and certainly nothing that I haven’t seen before. I am happy to be back on ShoBox. I know they liked my last fight because it showed that I am only getting better and better every fight.”

Teah, born in Liberia and fighting out of Philadelphia, has had mixed luck on ShoBox. A two-fight veteran of the developmental series, Teah scored a unanimous decision over previously undefeated O’Shaquie Foster in 2015 but dropped a majority decision to Montana Love in February, an opponent who Sims Jr. drew with. Teah, who did not start boxing until the age of 19, scored an impressive first-round knockout of Zach Ramsey his last time out in August at 2300 Arena.

“I will be ready to fight come November 16,” said Teah. “I have seen Kenneth Sims fight. He is fast and was a good amateur. He just fought a draw against the last fighter who beat me, Montana Love. I am excited about fighting him and I am also excited to be on ShoBox. I always face a higher level of opposition when I am on and ShoBox is always a great showcase.”

The aggressive, come-forward Khegai made his U.S. debut at the 2300 Arena on ShoBox in May, registering the most impressive result of his career with a unanimous decision over Adam Lopez. The undefeated Khegai, who is a former Ukraine national amateur champion and two-time world champion in Thai boxing, made the switch to professional boxing in 2015 and has since compiled a near-perfect record while competing mostly in Russia. Born to Korean parents in Lymanske, Ukraine, the all-action Khegai will make his second ShoBox appearance in search of another statement win.

“I am excited to be fighting in the U.S. on SHOWTIME,” said Khegai. “I look forward to putting on a memorable performance and cementing myself as a top name in the division. November 16 can’t come soon enough!”

Jorge Diaz Jr., from New Brunswick, New Jersey, is coming off a significant victory over then once-beaten Adam Lopez, an opponent Khegai also beat via decision. The 31-year-old Diaz, who last fought in November 2017, also boasts impressive victories over Olympic gold-medalist Yan Barthelemy and former title challengers Alejandro Lopez and Emmanuel Lucero. Diaz’s five professional losses have come against opponents that hold a combined record of 88-1-4.

“I feel very confident,” said Diaz. “My opponent is a good fighter, who is strong, aggressive, and throws sharp punches but I will be in tip-top shape. This is a very important fight for me. I have this great opportunity, so I will be dedicated and will give my best effort.”

Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with fellow Hall of Famer Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Chuck McKean producing and Rick Phillips directing.

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 78 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.