JERMALL CHARLO VS. JUAN MACIAS MONTIEL FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

HOUSTON (June 17, 2021) – Unbeaten WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo went face-to-face with the hard-hitting Juan Macias Montiel Thursday during the final press conference before they meet live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, June 19 from Toyota Center in Houston headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Thursday’s press conference also featured rising lightweight contender Isaac Cruz and former world champion Francisco Vargas, who meet in the 10-round co-main event, plus former super bantamweight world champion Angelo Leo and Mexican contender Aaron Alameda, who battle in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Saturday’s event is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at toyotacenter.com.

Charlo has established himself as a force in two divisions and will seek to thrill his hometown crowd against Mexico’s Montiel, in a first-of-its-kind Juneteenth Day boxing celebration. Charlo and his twin brother Jermell Charlo were given a proclamation from Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner on Wednesday, declaring this Juneteenth Day “Jermall and Jermell Charlo Day” in their hometown.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

JERMALL CHARLO

“I’m blessed to be in this position to showcase my talent. Camp was awesome. I’ve had great sparring throughout and I’m ready.

“On Saturday you can expect a hard fight. If he comes at me the same way everyone comes at me, you’re going to see the same Jermall Charlo. I can deliver explosive knockouts, go 12 rounds or beat you down from start to finish.

“If he’s strong like they say he is, I’ll show you my movement and attack the body. I have all the skills and ability of every other great middleweight throughout history.

“He’s strong, but I fight strong fighters. I spar heavy fighters all the time. I’m strong too, right? I’m not worried about his power. This is my hometown, and I’m going to stay champion. The talk about his power is just going to make me fight harder.

“This is a real fight. This isn’t James Kirkland or Hugo Centeno Jr. You’re only as good as your last fight. There are levels to this and I’m going to show what level I’m on Saturday. If he’s that good and if his team has a game plan that no one else has used before, then I’ll accept it. But I’ve trained hard for this fight and I’m going to show it.

“I’m honored to be fighting on Juneteenth with the opportunity to represent my people. I get to fight for all my ancestors who fought before me. I love it and I’m focused.

“Every fighter wants the belt. I remember being in that position, but I’m even hungrier now. I’m not sleeping on anybody. I’m still young in my career. I can’t make any mistakes right now. I know he’s coming to fight.

“I am not overlooking Montiel. Saturday is a holiday and that’s great. But I put my life on the line every time I get into the ring. I can’t overlook this guy. He says he trained hard, but I trained way harder.

“June 19 is going to be a party. Everyone get ready for a show. I’m coming for a fight. I’m putting it all on the line. This is going to be one of the fights where I do what I say I’m going to do.”

JUAN MACIAS MONTIEL

“I had an unbelievable training camp. It was the best camp of my entire career. It was very tough physically, but I feel great right now. We’ve worked hard to bring another world champion to Mexico.

“I plan to show everything we’ve worked on in training camp on Saturday night. We’ve worked on a variety of techniques and styles to use in this fight. I’m excited to show them in the ring.

“I was the underdog in the James Kirkland fight and everyone saw what happened. I wasn’t training the way I do now when I fought Hugo Centeno Jr. to a draw. I know that I have the best middleweight in front of me, so I knew that I had to train harder than ever for this fight.

“I believe that if he wants to trade punches with me, he’s going to be sorry that he chose that strategy.

“I’m very thankful for this opportunity. On Saturday night I’m going to fulfill my dream of becoming a world champion. No matter what it takes.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“I had a great two and a half months of training and I’m ready for Saturday night. Vargas has a similar style to mine. We both like to stand in front of our opponent, so it’s going to be a great fight.

“I’m planning to put Mexico on top once again. ‘Pitbull’ Cruz is going to show up like I always do. This is going to be a war.

“I plan to deliver a wonderful gift for all of the fans in Houston. Just like I delivered in San Antonio two fights ago, I’m going to show everyone that same power.

“I’m coming to win and I’m ready to have my hand raised. I’m not looking past Vargas, but I’ll be ready for whoever is next after I win.”

FRANCISCO VARGAS

“I’m very motivated and I can’t wait for Saturday night. I had a great training camp and I know that this is going to be an action-packed fight for the fans.

“We both want to win for our country. Everyone knows what kind of fight this is going to be. Cruz is a strong fighter who comes forward, so I’d say our styles are definitely similar.

“There’s not much that needs to be said. People might think I don’t have anything left, but I’m going to prove on Saturday night that there’s plenty in the tank. Everyone is going to see on June 19.

“This is going to be a very entertaining fight. It definitely could steal the night. It’s shaping up to be that type of fight.

“When you’ve got two Mexican warriors, you can expect another Fight of the Year. Don’t miss it on Saturday.”

ANGELO LEO

“It’s a pleasure to be fighting in Houston, Texas. I came up short in my last fight, but this camp we’ve improved my strength and conditioning. I’m a lot stronger and a lot wiser from the experience I had against Stephen Fulton.

“Training camp with my dad has been great. We’re ready to go and put on a show for Houston on Saturday.

“I had COVID-19 about six weeks before the Fulton fight. As a fighter, I wanted to put on a show for the fans no matter what. In that fight, I didn’t have the same stamina that I had in the previous fight. I feel fully healed now and we’re going to deliver a good performance.

“I have a lot of motivation knowing that I’ve been champion once and that I can reach that height again. I just want to prove to everyone that I’m still at the top level of this division and a serious threat to anybody.”

AARON ALAMEDA

“We trained very hard for this fight. I got a lot of good experience from the Luis Nery fight and on Saturday I’m going to show everything that I’ve learned.

“It was a great opportunity against Luis Nery. I’m going to let my hands go, leave it all in the ring and be victorious on Saturday night.

“I’m very motivated by my previous experience against Nery. Everyone will see that I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win in this fight.”

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ABOUT CHARLO VS. MONTIEL
Charlo vs. Montiel will see undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo enter the ring for a Juneteenth Day celebration in his hometown when he takes on hard-hitting Juan Macías Montiel on Saturday, June 19 at Toyota Center in Houston headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event live on SHOWTIME.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and feature rising lightweight contender Isaac Cruz battling former world champion Francisco Vargas in the 10-round co-main event. Kicking off the telecast, former world champion Angelo Leo returns to take on Mexican contender Aaron Alameda in a 10-round super bantamweight bout.

The event is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. Leo vs. Alameda is promoted in association with Mayweather Promotions.

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

QUOTES FROM CHARLO TWINS RECEIVING PROCLAMATION FROM HOUSTON MAYOR, PLUS JERMALL CHARLO MEDIA WORKOUT

HOUSTON (June 16, 2021) – WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo was joined by his twin brother, unified super welterweight champion Jermell Charlo, as Houston’s world champions received a special proclamation from Mayor Sylvester Turner on Wednesday in an open to the public event in the Charlo twins’ hometown.

After the proclamation ceremony, Jermall participated in an open media workout ahead of his world title defense against hard-hitting Juan Macias Montiel taking place this Saturday, June 19 headlining action live on SHOWTIME from Toyota Center in Houston in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Saturday’s event is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at toyotacenter.com.

The event also featured the Charlo Twins, along with WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman, presenting Mayor Turner with a special WBC Juneteenth belt, ahead of Jermall’s Juneteenth Day homecoming title defense. During the ceremony, declared this Saturday, June 19 “Jermell and Jermall Charlo Day” in the city of Houston.

Here is what the event participants had to say Wednesday from outside of Toyota Center:

JERMALL CHARLO

“I want to thank everyone for supporting me for all these years. I’m putting my title and my undefeated record on the line, so everyone make sure you get your tickets and tune-in Saturday night.

“This means the world to me. The pressure is on me to bring out the most beautiful crowd boxing has ever seen right here in my hometown of Houston, Texas and we’re going to do it Saturday night.

“It’s so meaningful to see the city embrace me today. Now I know that I have to put on a show for the whole city. I’m going to stay locked in so that I can take over this division.

“There’s no way I’m letting someone come to my backyard and take my bike. I’m taking care of business on Saturday.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“I really appreciate my twin brother for standing by my side. We’ve been boxing since we were eight-years-old and we never gave up this dream. This is what we do. We’re putting on for the city on Saturday, and then I’m going to do it for my city on July 17.

“This day means so much for me, because Saturday is Jermall’s chance to shine and he’s representing for both of us. It’s huge for us.

“Me and my family have celebrated Juneteenth since I was young. A lot of people don’t understand it and don’t give this holiday the recognition it deserves, but this year, because of my brother’s big fight, Houston isn’t going to forget it.

“Right now it’s all about taking over our divisions and supporting our family. There’s a lot more to come from the Charlo Twins.”

HOUSTON MAYOR SYLVESTER TURNER

“Houston is so proud to have the Charlo Twins right here in their hometown. This is a proud moment and I’m excited to be here. Saturday night is the big fight and we know Houston is going to be winning that night.

“The Charlo brothers are ambitious and steadfast supporters of their hometown. Together they have formed Lions Only Promotions to help stage their events and help give back to the community here in Houston.

“The city of Houston appreciates and thanks Jermell and Jermall Charlo for their outstanding work and we encourage Houstonians to join in and extend their best wishes for their continued success. I proudly proclaim this day, on Juneteenth 2021, as Jermell and Jermall Charlo Day in the city of Houston.”

RONNIE SHIELDS, Jermall Charlo’s Trainer

“Jermall is always focused. That’s one thing I don’t need to worry about with him. He knows that every fight is important and he doesn’t underestimate anybody. Jermall is going out there to make history.

“I expect Jermall to go out and do what we’ve been working on. We’re going to stick to the game plan. If we stick to that, it’s going to be history again.”

DERRICK JAMES, Jermell Charlo’s Trainer

“I know this acknowledgement means a lot to Jermell and Jermall. We all work to take care of our family, but to be supported by the city, and have the Mayor come out, it’s amazing. It’s a really true affirmation from the city and I know they appreciate it.”

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The event is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. Leo vs. Alameda is promoted in association with Mayweather Promotions.

TEXAS NATIVE MIGUEL FLORES HIGHLIGHTS NON-TELEVISED UNDERCARD LINEUP SATURDAY, JUNE 19 FROM TOYOTA CENTER IN HOUSTON IN A PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS EVENT

HOUSTON (June 14, 2021) –Texas native Miguel “El Michoacano” Flores will highlight the non-televised undercard lineup in a featherweight attraction on Saturday, June 19 as the former world title challenger enters the ring for an eight-round bout from Toyota Center in Houston in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The event is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at toyotacenter.com.

Unbeaten WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo will headline the night in a title defense against hard-hitting Juan Macias Montiel live on SHOWTIME on a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The non-televised undercard will also see Mexico’s Alexis Salazar (23-3, 9 KOs) take on Argentina’s Jairo Rayman (16-1-1, 7 KOs) in a 10-round middleweight clash, 22-year-old prospect Desmond Lyons (6-2, 2 KOs) entering the ring for a six-round lightweight bout, welterweight Willie Jones (7-2, 4 KOs) competing in a six-round attraction and New Orleans-native Michael Angeletti (2-0, 1 KO) fighting in a four-round super bantamweight affair.

Flores (24-4, 12 KOs) will look to bounce back from a pair of defeats against top tier fighters when he steps into the ring on June 19. The 28-year-old from Spring, Texas most recently dropped a December 2020 contest to Eduardo Ramirez after going the distance with four-division champion Leo Santa Cruz in a November 2019 super featherweight title bout. Flores turned pro in 2009 at just 17-years-old and was victorious in his first 22 bouts.

The event is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. Leo vs. Alameda is promoted in association with Mayweather Promotions.

Ricky Medina Returns June 19 in Houston

SAN ANTONIO, TX (June 9, 2021) – Prince Ranch Boxings’ undefeated featherweight prospect, Richard Medina (9-0, 6 KOs), will be fighting on the biggest stage of his career as he faces Omar Castillo (6-2, 3 KOs), on the undercard of Jermall Charlo vs Juan Macias Montiel June 19th, from the Toyota Center, in Houston, Texas.

“These are the type of cards I have been hoping to be on, and I am so grateful to my team for this chance to showcase my skills,” said an excited Medina, who is promoted by TMB Entertainment. “I am ready for this fight, and I am happy to be on the big stage. Castillo is a dangerous opponent, who has fought good fighters, but I’m on another level. I’m ready for this step-up fight.”

“Medina has put in the hard work, and it has paid off,” said Greg Hannely, president of Prince Ranch Boxing, who manages Medina. “These are the type of fights that will lead to bigger and better opportunities. Medina will be tested in this bout, but we firmly believe he will pass this test, and with this, he will then be in a position to be in exciting future bouts.”

“Medina is looking to make a statement and show he belongs on the world level,” said Rick Morones, of TMB Entertainment. “I have never seen Medina this focused and this excited and the fact the fight is in Texas has made the fight even bigger for him as well.”

Medina, who is from San Antonio, Texas, which is a 3-hour drive to Houston, Texas, is looking to make his fans in the Lone Star State proud once he steps foot in the ring.

“I am not just fighting for me, I am fighting for everyone who ever believed in me,” continued Medina. “This is the biggest fight of my career, and I am looking to make a statement, so I can fight on these types of cards in the future.”

JERMALL CHARLO VS. JUAN MACÍAS MONTIEL VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

HOUSTON (June 9, 2021) – Unbeaten WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo and hard-hitting challenger Juan Macías Montiel previewed their upcoming showdown during a virtual press conference Wednesday, as they near their matchup that headlines action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, June 19 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Toyota Center in Houston.

The event is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at toyotacenter.com.

Charlo has established himself as a force in two divisions and will seek to thrill his hometown crowd against Mexico’s Montiel, in a first-of-its-kind Juneteenth Day boxing celebration. Charlo will fight in Houston for the fourth time as a pro and look to keep his undefeated record intact against the upset-minded Montiel.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday:

JERMALL CHARLO

“This is going to be fireworks. This is going to be a fight. I come to put on a good show in front of my city. Get ready to tune in. This is going down, all the way down. There’s no way I’m letting Montiel take anything from me.

“There’s no pressure for me. I’m a fighter and pro at what I do. It’s my legacy on the line. So no matter what, I have to continue to be great. I have the best trainer in the world in Ronnie Shields and I’m so ready for this fight.

“I know Montiel is going to bring a strong challenge and try to knock me out. You put the pressure on yourself that way though. Normally when people talk trash, I lay them out. I’m going to be prepared. My mental has matched up with my physical ability and I’m stronger than ever.

“Montiel is a pressure fighter who fights from both stances. He’s strong with both hands and he’s going to try to fight fire with fire.

“When you’re the world champion, everyone wants to beat you. It doesn’t matter who they put in front of you, because they’re all training their hardest. He’s going to be in shape, but I’m going to be just as fast, strong and smart. My title is on the line, so I have to defend it.

“Bring on the power. I want the power. He better be as strong as he’s talking. I want to feel the power. I’ll show you what I do with the power.

“I’m enjoying my life. I’m enjoying being the best Jermall Charlo I can be. I enjoy the competition that they give me. I’m never okay or satisfied with being where I’m at. He’s going to see on June 19 that Jermall Charlo is for real.

“I’m making 160-pounds perfectly right now. I’m not finished at 160-pounds. There are bigger fights ahead of me though. No matter what happens, those bigger fights are coming. Right now, I’ve got something for Montiel.

“I’m giving you the best Jermall Charlo that I can give you. Montiel is going to come forward and give me some power. I’m going to put it in my pocket and charge my phone with it. You’re going to see a great night of boxing on June 19.

“I get a chance to fight for my community and my people on June 19. It’s going to be an amazing night of boxing. Everyone who stands up for me, I get to stand back up for them.”

JUAN MACÍAS MONTIEL

“I’m excited and I’m ready. This is a dream fight that I’ve been waiting for all my life. We’ve been getting ready for months and I’m more than ready to step up to this challenge.

“Whoever thinks this is an easy fight for Jermall, doesn’t know me at all. That’s like saying a spark can’t light a forest on fire. I’m going to show on June 19 that I’m more than up to the challenge of showing who Juan Macías Montiel is.

“I don’t see any weaknesses in Charlo’s game. He’s number one for a reason. I’m going to have to fight him to the best of my abilities. He’s at the top of his game and I respect what he brings.

“I think I have matured since my losses. I have trained very smart for this opportunity. I’m not going to let this slip away because of anything that I didn’t do.

“My record speaks for itself. I am all about the knockout and that’s what I’m coming for on June 19. I’ve been perfecting my whole game since my last fight. The power is definitely going to be the key for me.

“I had to overcome a lot of adversity against Hugo Centeno Jr. I was not 100% healthy in that fight, but all of that is behind me now. I’m not looking back, everything is focused on June 19 right now.

“I have never had a training camp as long as this one. We’ve upped the intensity and put focus on getting more rest and better nutrition. Everything that I could need as a fighter has gone into this training.

“I feel blessed to be able to achieve my dream of fighting for a world title. That’s going to be my sole focus on June 19. I’m going to make my dream come true.

“It’s a dream come true to fight a champion like Charlo. If I keep doing things the way I’ve done, I feel like I’ll show that I deserve this opportunity.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“Jermall Charlo is the undefeated WBC world champion and I believe he’s the best middleweight in the world. He’s held titles in two weight classes and in his last fight at 154-pounds he took on the number one challenger, Julian Williams, and retained his title with a fifth round stoppage, dropping him three times. We know that Julian went on to become a unified champion after that fight, showing just how good of a win it was.

“Jermall is coming off an impressive victory over Sergey Derevyanchenko. Derevyanchenko had just given Gennadiy Golovkin the most grueling fight of his career and Charlo handled him easier than Golovkin or Daniel Jacobs. It just shows you how good he is.

“Charlo will have his hands full against the Mexican slugger Juan Macías Montiel. He’s 27-years-old and WBC ranked number four. We all know Montiel has heavy hands. He has 22 knockouts in 22 wins. Every loss he’s had, except against Jaime Munguia, has been a split or majority decision.

“It’s going to be an explosive night. I can’t wait to get down to Houston for what’s going to be a great card from top to bottom.”

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The event is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at toyotacenter.com. Leo vs. Alameda is promoted in association with Mayweather Promotions.

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

JERMALL CHARLO vs. JUAN MACÍAS MONTIEL HOUSTON KICK-OFF PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

HOUSTON – May 18, 2021 – Unbeaten WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo and hard-hitting 160-pound contender Juan Macías Montiel met face-to-face for the first time Tuesday during a kick-off press conference as they preview the main event of a special Juneteenth Day celebration in Charlo’s hometown of Houston Saturday, June 19 at Toyota Center headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event live on SHOWTIME.

Charlo has established himself as a force in two divisions and will seek to thrill his hometown crowd against Mexico’s Montiel in a first-of-its-kind Juneteenth Day boxing celebration. Charlo will fight in Houston for the fourth time as a pro and look to keep his undefeated record intact against the upset-minded Montiel.

Here is what Charlo, Montiel and their trainers had to say Tuesday:

JERMALL CHARLO:

“June 19, it’s going to be fireworks. A parade. A celebration. Me and Ronnie Shields get a chance to do it again. I’m working hard. I was working hard before I even knew who Montiel was. This time, you get a chance to see all the hard work I’ve put in for so many years. It’s a dream come true to be able to fight in my city and I get a chance to do it with a crowd. Tune in and get your tickets because it’s going to be a great night of boxing.

“There’s no better day to fight than Juneteenth. It’s a celebration for me and my people and I get to represent them and carry them on my back. To be able to do it for my city right here at the Toyota Center – it’s going to be an amazing night of boxing.

“Montiel is fearless. He’s a fighter that I think deserves a chance. At this point, he understands where he’s at. This is a big fight. A lot of people may not know who Montiel is, just like I didn’t, but he’s a strong fighter. The people want to see me get tested, right? I want to see those big fights, too. In a matter of time, they’ll come. But Montiel should be a good fight.

“I’m going to whoop his ass. He doesn’t stand a chance. They’re all confident. I got the belt. The belt ain’t going nowhere. Toyota Center, get ready. It’s going to be fireworks June 19. He can be as confident as he wants, but when we get in there he’s going to have to figure it out.

“I’m ready to fight the best in the world. I’m the best in the world and I’m not going to let this guy over here stop me. The belt is not going nowhere. The belt is staying right here in ‘H Town.’ There’s nothing he could do about it. Nothing. It’s my belt. It’s my legacy. You’ll find out June 19.

“A fighter like Montiel is challenging to go in there and get the job done real clean and swiftly because if I look bad against a guy like this, they’ll take away from what I did in the Derevyanchenko fight. But, yes, to date, Derevyanchenko was one of my hardest fights, but I made nice work of it and onto the next one.

“I got the belt. Champions fight champions. We unify. But if not, we’re not just going to sit back. Those guys that have the belt like Triple G, Canelo and Andrade – the belts are out there so eventually it will happen. I’m not in a rush. I’m young. I’m still having fun. I’m enjoying what I do best.

“If Triple G wants this WBC belt, I have it. It’s over here, it’s open. I’m ready to fight.”

JUAN MACÍAS MONTIEL:

“We are focused on preparing as well as possible. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and we are taking it as such with a lot of dedication and discipline. We are ready to put on a great show on June 19.

“This is the fight I always dreamed of. I am all about challenging myself and fighting against the best of the best. I have been training hard and I believe in myself. I will be ready to come out and win.

“We’re fighting in Houston because I don’t think that I’m in a position to choose or dictate anything right now. I will fight anywhere in order to make my dream of becoming a champion come true. If we have to fight on the moon, then let’s fight on the moon.

“I believe that power is the great equalizer, a legit advantage in boxing, since it can change the fortunes of any fighter inside the ring. I consider my power an advantage in my favor.

“I have fought and prepared so hard for the opportunity to go and get this championship belt. I have done things the right way, there is no reason for things to go wrong. As I said previously, I am not in a position to choose where to fight. I just have to keep training hard like I have since I was four years old.

“I’m happy that there will be fans in the stands. I don’t feel any pressure, because it’s all about Latin pride and support and that motivates me.

“I think Charlo is a great fighter, super talented and the world champion for a reason. I have been preparing my whole life for this.

“I don’t think that all Mexicans just go on attack mode by default, you also have to be smart and think things through depending on how the fight goes.”

RONNIE SHIELDS, CHARLO’S TRAINER:

“Jermall Charlo has worked his butt off in the gym and he continues to do that. To defend your title in your backyard, in your hometown, that’s a very special thing. Not only is it going to be special because of that, it’s going to be special because Juneteenth is a very special day for all African Americans in the state of Texas. We’re looking forward to a great fight. Montiel is a really great fighter and we know we can’t underestimate anybody. We’re going to be in the best condition we’ve ever been in every time we fight and we’re going to continue to do that. We’re looking forward to having everybody come out for this great celebration.

“I think a lot of people were surprised how easily Jermall beat Sergey Derevyanchenko. He was the No. 1 contender. He was the mandatory defense. He gave Triple G problems. He gave Danny Jacobs problems. And Jermall beat him.”

EDUARDO MONTIEL, MONTIEL’S TRAINER:

“Training camp is an ongoing process. Things are going swimmingly, just like we wanted them to. We are very happy and so glad people have welcomed us here in Houston with open arms.

“I’m hoping for Montiel to be in his best physical, mental and emotional shape to come out with a win on June 19. Our biggest advantage right now is that we are already settled in here in the United States, free of the distractions and temptations we might have back home in Mexico.

“I think that a victory of this magnitude would make Montiel the face of Mexican boxing, rubbing elbows with the Canelos of the world. Life would change overnight for him.”

DOUG HALL, GENERAL MANAGER, TOYOTA CENTER:

“We welcome SHOWTIME and our friends from Premier Boxing Champions back to Toyota Center. We have a great history of hosting combat sports in this fine arena. We’re really excited about what Jermall Charlo and Juan Macías Montiel are going to bring to the Toyota Center on June 19. Tickets are on sale now at toyotacenter.com and we are looking forward to a great night as we bring back live events to this market. We can do it successfully and safely and we want to see everybody come and see a great championship boxing match.”

WBC MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION JERMALL CHARLO TO FACE JUAN MACÍAS MONTIEL IN JUNETEENTH DAY CELEBRATION SATURDAY, JUNE 19 AT TOYOTA CENTER IN HOUSTON HEADLINING A PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS EVENT LIVE ON SHOWTIME

HOUSTON (May 12, 2021) – Undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo will enter the ring for a Juneteenth Day celebration in his hometown when he takes on hard-hitting Juan Macías Montiel on Saturday, June 19 at Toyota Center in Houston headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event live on SHOWTIME.

Charlo has established himself as a force in two divisions and will seek to thrill his hometown crowd against Mexico’s Montiel, in a first-of-its-kind Juneteenth Day boxing celebration. Charlo will fight in Houston for the fourth time as a pro and look to keep his undefeated record intact against the upset-minded Montiel.

The event is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. Tickets for the live event go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, May 13 at 12 p.m. CT and can be purchased at toyotacenter.com. Leo vs. Alameda is promoted in association with Mayweather Promotions.

Charlo (31-0, 22 KOs) will return to fight in his hometown for the first time since a June 2019 unanimous decision victory over Brandon Adams on SHOWTIME. The 30-year-old most recently scored an impressive victory over top middleweight contender Sergey Derevyanchenko in their September 2020 showdown. Charlo has held the WBC middleweight belt since 2019, after a championship reign at 154-pounds that lasted from 2015 through 2017. He has compiled a perfect 6-0 record since moving up to middleweight and owns victories over former champions Julian Williams, Austin Trout and Cornelius Bundrage at super welterweight.

“It’s great to be back in the ring, headlining on SHOWTIME and defending my title in front of my hometown fans in Houston,” said Charlo. “Fighting on Juneteenth means a lot to me because there is a battle going on far greater than this. That said, I have to handle my business on June 19. Montiel is a tough, young, power puncher. I know he wants my crown, but I’m hungrier than ever and ready to put on a show for my fans. Get ready for a special, explosive night.”

Representing his native Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Montiel (22-4-2, 22 KOs) has earned knockouts in all 22 of his pro victories, as the heavy-handed brawler established himself as a hard-hitting force. The 27-year-old has put together an unbeaten streak since moving up to middleweight, first competing at the weight in September 2017, and most recently scoring a first-round knockout victory over longtime contender James Kirkland in December 2020. He owns stoppages of Marco Reyes and Gustavo Castro, and a draw against Hugo Centeno, Jr. at middleweight. Montiel had previously campaigned at welterweight and super welterweight, dropping a February 2017 bout to former champion Jaime Munguia in a 147-pound fight.

“I know that I am fighting the best middleweight in the world, but he has never faced someone who can punch like I can,” said Montiel. “All my losses in the past are from not training properly and trying to win by one-punch knockout. I’ve grown up and become a man since then. I proved that I was different when I beat Marco Reyes in 2019, and I haven’t left the gym since then. I’ve worked hard every day to become world champion and I will display everything I’ve learned on June 19.”

The 22-year-old Cruz (21-1-1, 15 KOs) shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in September. Cruz followed that up this March, when he won a unanimous decision over previously unbeaten Matias Romero. Since making his U.S. debut on the undercard of Jermall Charlo vs. Dennis Hogan in December 2019, the Mexico City-native has been unbeaten in his four ring appearances. This will mark his fifth fight in 20 months, the last four of which will have come on SHOWTIME, including headlining ShoBox: The Next Generation in February 2020.

“Me and Vargas are going to show the fans true Mexican-style boxing on June 19,” said Cruz. “He is also from Mexico City, so I know this fight will be toe-to-toe. It’s my time to show the fans that I’m the best Mexican lightweight in the world. In with the new, and out with the old. I want to thank my promoter, Senator Manny Pacquiao, for his support and belief that I will become world champion very soon.”

Also a native of Mexico City, Vargas (27-2-2, 19 KOs) won a 130-pound title in 2015 by defeating Takashi Miura in one of the year’s best fights. The 36-year-old would go on to fight Orlando Salido to an action-packed draw before losing his title to Miguel Berchelt in another memorable affair. Vargas went on to defeat Stephen Smith and Rod Salka before losing in his rematch with Berchelt in 2019. Most recently, Vargas began campaigning at lightweight, scoring back-to-back victories with a technical decision over Ezequiel Aviles in October 2019 and a TKO over Otto Gamez in November 2020.

“I only know how to fight wars and the fans should expect nothing less on June 19,” said Vargas. “I am a warrior, and people are going to remember the reasons why I was in two Fight of the Year battles when they see me in the ring with Isaac Cruz. I want to thank my whole team for putting together this fight that I know the fans will enjoy.”

Leo (20-1, 9 KOs), who fights out of the Mayweather Promotions stable, became the first world champion from his hometown of Albuquerque, N.M., since legendary three-division champion Johnny Tapia, when he defeated Tramaine Williams by unanimous decision in August 2020. The 26-year-old dropped the belt when he lost a decision to unbeaten Stephen Fulton Jr. in January on SHOWTIME. Leo, who trains in Las Vegas, will look to re-establish his position in the stacked 122-pound division on June 19.

“I’m excited to get back in the ring for this fight,” said Leo. “I wasn’t the same fighter in my last fight, as I was when I won the title. That’s given me a big chip on my shoulder. I figured out my mistakes and learned a lot about myself. I’m here to show people that I’m still a top contender and a threat in this division. Alameda is a real contender and he’s not an opponent I’m taking lightly. Whoever comes out on top in this fight will be right there for another title shot and I plan on that being me.”

The 27-year-old Aaron Alameda (25-1, 13 KOs) was able to stop Luis Nery’s knockout streak but came up on the short end of the decision in their super bantamweight title fight last September. Prior to the Nery fight, the Sonora, Mexico native had back-to-back knockouts over Jordan Escobar and Breilor Teran. A pro since 2014, his previous action in the U.S. saw him earn a sixth-round knockout over Andre Wilson in 2016.

“I can’t wait for another big fight on June 19,” said Alameda. “I showed that I belong with the best in my last fight against Luis Nery, and I will be even better against Leo. My goal is to become world champion and I plan on displaying everything I’ve worked on in this fight. I’m excited to battle Leo and give the fans a great show.”

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SHOWTIME® AND PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS UNVEIL LOADED FIVE-MONTH BOXING SCHEDULE FEATURING ELITE FIGHTERS AND MATCHUPS ACROSS NINE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP EVENTS

NEW YORK – April 15, 2021 – SHOWTIME Sports and Premier Boxing Champions today unveiled a loaded five-month boxing schedule of nine high-stakes world championship events beginning Saturday, May 15, live on SHOWTIME. The schedule delivers two events per month through August. Thirteen matchups have been announced thus far with no less than seven world title fights, and 12 fighters defending undefeated records. The lineup features many of boxing’s best young fighters taking on career-defining challenges in their primes. All fights on the schedule will take place before a live audience, keeping with applicable local COVID-19 safety protocols.

The sizzling summer run features the dynamic Charlo twins as undefeated electrifying champion Jermall Charlo defends his WBC middleweight world title against Juan Macias Montiel in a special Juneteenth homecoming in Houston on Saturday, June 19, live on SHOWTIME.

The following Saturday, June 26, unbeaten Mayweather Promotions star Gervonta “Tank” Davis moves up two weight classes for a chance to become a three-division world champion when he takes on fellow undefeated champion Mario Barrios for his super lightweight world title in what will be Davis’ second pay-per-view showdown.

The next month, WBC, WBA and IBF 154-pound charismatic world champion Jermell Charlo looks to make boxing history when he takes on WBO junior middleweight world champion Brian Castaño in a mega-fight to crown the first four-belt 154-pound world champion. The World Championship Unification bout takes place on Saturday, July 17, live on SHOWTIME.

The SHOWTIME boxing schedule features eight editions of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING and one premier SHOWTIME PPV event, all presented by Premier Boxing Champions:

MAY 15 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
- Luis Nery vs. Brandon Figueroa, WBC Super Bantamweight World Title Fight
- Danny Roman vs. Ricardo Espinoza Franco, Super Bantamweight Fight
- Xavier Martinez vs. Abraham Montoya, WBA Super Featherweight Fight
MAY 29 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
- Nordine Oubaali vs. Nonito Donaire, WBC Bantamweight World Title Fight
- Subriel Matias vs. Batyrzhan Jukembayev, IBF Super Lightweight Title Eliminator
JUNE 19 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
- Jermall Charlo vs. Juan Macias Montiel, WBC Middleweight World Title Fight
JUNE 26 – SHOWTIME PPV
- Gervonta Davis vs. Mario Barrios, WBA Super Lightweight World Title Fight
- Erickson Lubin vs. Jeison Rosario, WBC Junior Middleweight Title Eliminator
JULY 3 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
- Chris Colbert vs. Yuriorkis Gamboa, WBA Super Featherweight Interim Title Fight
JULY 17 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
- Jermell Charlo vs. Brian Castaño, Undisputed IBF, WBA, WBC & WBO Junior Middleweight World Title Unification Fight
AUGUST 14 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
- Guillermo Rigondeaux vs. John Riel Casimero, WBO Bantamweight World Title Fight
AUGUST 28– SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
- David Benavidez vs. Jose Uzcategui, WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator
SEPTEMBER 11 – SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
- Stephen Fulton, Jr. vs. winner of Nery-Figueroa, Super Bantamweight World Title Unification Fight

“High-impact, meaningful fights amongst many of the biggest names and brightest stars in combat sports. That is what SHOWTIME promises and that is what we are delivering,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, SHOWTIME Sports. “With an opportunity to crown an undisputed world champion at 154 pounds, a highly anticipated super bantamweight title unification, a stacked pay-per-view showdown and more than a dozen fights between 118-168 pounds, SHOWTIME is presenting boxing’s best young fighters, all daring to be great by putting their world titles and undefeated records on the line. This schedule’s caliber and volume – the deepest and most consistent of any network or platform – exemplifies our commitment to the sport. Between this incredible lineup of boxing events and our new partnership with BELLATOR MMA, with a live event nearly every week, there is no better value proposition in combat sports.”

The boxing action begins on SHOWTIME on Saturday, May 15 with the highly anticipated WBC super bantamweight world championship fight between Luis Nery and Brandon Figueroa. The battle of two unbeaten champions who have been on a collision course for supremacy in the 122-pound division headlines a three-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast. Rounding out the May 15 event, former unified super bantamweight world champion Danny Roman faces the tough, hard-hitting Ricardo Espinoza and super featherweight rising contender Xavier Martinez takes on the experienced Abraham Montoya.

Two weeks later on Saturday, May 29, SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING will present the long-awaited title tilt between Nordine Oubaali and future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire for the WBC bantamweight world championship. The undercard will feature Subriel Matias taking on undefeated Batyrzhan Jukembayev in the stiffest test of their professional careers as they meet in an IBF super lightweight title eliminator.

This summer, the thrilling Charlo twins will headline separate SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING events to defend their titles.

In a Juneteenth Day celebration on Saturday, June 19, in his hometown of Houston, unbeaten WBC middleweight world champion Jermall Charlo takes on the power-punching Juan Macias Montiel. After claiming a championship in the 154-pound division, Charlo moved up in weight and has been just as dominant. The battle against Montiel will be Charlo’s fifth defense of his 160-pound title. Charlo is coming off a career-defining victory over Sergey Derevyanchenko in September.

On Saturday, June 26, current two-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis looks to become a three-division world champion when he returns to headline his second SHOWTIME PPV event. Davis, 26, will jump up two weight classes from his last contest to face unbeaten super lightweight world champion Mario Barrios. Davis is coming off a career-best victory over world champion Leo Santa Cruz. The co-main event that evening will feature a high-stakes WBC junior middleweight world title eliminator between Erickson Lubin and former unified 154-pound world champion Jeison Rosario.

Then, on Saturday, July 17, one month after his brother’s fight, Jermell Charlo looks to make boxing history when he defends his WBC, WBA and IBF junior middleweight world titles against undefeated WBO world champion Brian Castaño in one of the most highly anticipated and important matches of the year. Charlo aims to achieve something that has never been done in boxing history by becoming the first fighter to be undisputed champion at 154 pounds in the four-belt era. Charlo has held the WBC title since 2019 and added the WBA and IBF titles with a stunning knockout victory over Jeison Rosario in his last fight in September.

Also in July, undefeated rising star Chris Colbert of Brooklyn, N.Y. will defend his WBA super featherweight interim title against three-division world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in a crossroads bout on Saturday, July 3. The 24-year old Colbert is coming off a career best victory, a knockout win over Jaime Arboleda in December 2020. The Cuban-born Gamboa seeks to reassert himself by moving back down to super featherweight where he has excelled throughout his career.

August will feature another pair of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING events. On Saturday, August 14, two of the best bantamweights in the world will meet when former unified world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux faces John Riel Casimero for Casimero’s WBO bantamweight world title.

Two weeks later, on Saturday, August 28, undefeated two-time former super middleweight world champion David Benavidez will face former super middle champion Jose Uzcategui in a fight that will put the winner one step closer to a world championship opportunity. Benavidez, 24, made boxing history when he became the youngest super middleweight world champion at age 20 with a victory over Ronald Gavril in 2017.

On Saturday, September 11, the red-hot 122-pound division will take center stage once again on SHOWTIME as the WBO junior featherweight world champion Stephen Fulton, Jr. will make the first defense of his title against the winner of the May 15 clash between undefeated champions Nery and Figueroa. The unification fight will be the main event on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING.

Earlier this month, SHOWTIME doubled its live combat sports schedule with the start of a partnership with BELLATOR MMA that delivers two world class mixed martial arts events per month to SHOWTIME subscribers. Coupled with live world championship boxing events, SHOWTIME will now deliver upwards of 40 live sports events per year and has established itself as the premier combat sports destination for fight fans. As part of the launch, which continues this Friday with the next two Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix opening round fights, the network is offering viewers who are new to the SHOWTIME streaming service a 30-day free trial followed by a discounted monthly subscription fee of $4.99/month for the next six months.

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

Willie Nelson moves up to middleweight, is targeting a Golovkin, Charlo, Brant or Murata showdown

Cleveland, Ohio – Willie Nelson (27-3-1) is looking to make a big impact in 2021. Like many fighters, Nelson’s 2020 campaign was aborted due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Nelson has been a top contender in the super welterweight division the past several years but will campaign as a full fledged middleweight when he returns to the ring. The middleweight division has produced some of the biggest fights in boxing in recent years and there are several fighters who interest Nelson.

“I just want to get in the mix. (Gennadiy) Golovkin is a guy I want to fight. I think his style and mine would produce the type of fight that the fans would love. I also am looking at guys like Rob Brant, Jaime Munguia, Ryota Murata, and Jermall Charlo. I want to fight the top guys in the division. If I can’t get a champion right away get me a top contender that would put me in position to fight for a title,” Nelson explained.

The 33 year old has never backed down from a challenge and is no stranger to big fights having fought on HBO, Showtime and ESPN throughout his career. He holds a big knockout victory over former champion Tony Harrison and also handed top prospects Yudel Johnson and John Jackson their first professional losses. Nelson has also faced WBO middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade and former title challenger Vanes Martirosyan.

“I feel a lot stronger at 160. The last couple fights was a struggle to get down in weight. I haven’t taken much punishment and feel like I am in the prime of my career. I can’t wait to begin this next chapter of my career. I just need to get a chance with one of these big names to remind everyone what I am capable of,” said Nelson.

CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER: JERMALL CHARLO vs. SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO AND JERMELL CHARLO vs. JEISON ROSARIO TO AIR ON SHOWTIME ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3

WHAT: Saturday’s CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER main events featuring the world champion Charlo twins will air on SHOWTIME this Saturday, October 3 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT. WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo passed his toughest test to date with high marks, earning a skilled and disciplined unanimous decision victory over Sergiy Derevyanchenko while twin brother Jermell Charlo unified the WBC, WBA and IBF 154-pound titles with a spectacular knockout against Jeison Rosario.

Watch the Jermall Charlo-Derevyanchenko video recap HERE: https://twitter.com/ShowtimeBoxing/status/1310030527303487496?s=20

Watch the Jermell Charlo-Rosario KO HERE: https://twitter.com/ShowtimeBoxing/status/1310088074471321600

VIDEO: Jermell Charlo Post Fight Media Conference after Rosario KO

VIDEO: Jermall Charlo Post Fight Media Conference

Charlo Knocks Out Rosario in 8

Jermell Charlo unified the WBC/WBA/IBF Junior Middleweight world title with an 8th round stoppage over Jeison Rosario that highlighted a night that saw five world title fights at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Charlo dominated the action as he dropped Rosario in the 1st round with a left to the body. That was a foreshadow of things to come as he dropped Rosario again in round six, and the final which came 21 seconds into round eight which came from a jab to the body that sent Rosario in pain.

Charlo, 153.8 lbs of Houston is 34-1 with 18 knockouts. Rosario, 153.4 lbs of Santo Domingo DR is 20-2-1.

Quotes:

Jermell Charlo:

“I definitely proved that I’m more than just a puncher, but I also showed again that I’m a big puncher. I’d give myself an A tonight. I stuck to my game plan and listened to my coach. Everything we did in camp, I used it in this fight. I pushed myself the whole way through training camp. It’s been a journey for me. I’m bringing the straps home to my family like they told me to.

“I knew that he was going to keep coming after the first knockdown. He kept pressing for four or five rounds until I floored him again. I’m growing and learning that the knockout just comes. I know that I have explosive power in both hands. I utilized my jab more than any other punch in this fight and that’s what got me these straps.

“Rosario hits hard, but if you have to know how to wear a fighter down. That’s how you take the power out of him.

“I think some of the previous punches I landed hurt him before the jab. The body shot that landed just hit the right point. I wish him well. I give any man who steps into the ring respect. I hope he recovers and bounces back.

“It’s Lions Only forever. We’ve been doing this for a long time. Dreams do come true. This is a part of my dream and a part of my destiny. I’m satisfied and I’m happy.

“I know right now that I’m going to talk with the sanctioning bodies and see what’s next. I’m holding the crown. I’m the king. We’ll see what’s next.”

Nery Decisions Alameda to win Super Bantamweight Title

Luis Nery won the WBC Super Bantamweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Aaron Alameda.

It was a close fight that saw each guy taking turns having their moments. Nery was focused on power punching and pressuring while Alameda worked behind a solid jab.

Nery Outlanded Alameda 180-177.

Nery, 121.4 lbs of Tijuana, MEX won by scores of 115-113, 116-112 and 118-110, ad is now 31-0. Alameda, 121.6 lbs of Nogales, MEX is 25-1.

Quotes:

Nery:

“Alameda has a nice jab, he definitely connected, but I always felt like I had the fight under control. His defense was good, but at the end I really tightened up my attack and was able to get the victory.

“We know he had a lot of experience as an amateur, so we prepared for a quality opponent. It’s not an excuse, but I haven’t fought in a year, so I think that affected my performance a little.

“I got the victory because I landed more. You always look for the knockout, but he used the jab a lot and that threw me off a little bit until I was able to connect more at the end of the fight.

“There are a lot of good fighters in this division. Brandon Figueroa’s name has come up, but we’ll check with the team and go from there. We’re ready to fight anyone at 122-pounds. We don’t fear anybody.”

Roman decisions Payano

Despite being outlanded, Danny Roman won a 12-round unanimous decision over Juan Carlos Payano in a super bantamweight bout.

Payano outlanded Payano 261-151.

Roman, 121.2 lbs of Los Angeles won by scores of 116-112 on all cards and is now 27-3-1. Payano, 121.6 lbs of La Vega, DR is 21-3.

Attached, please find photos, stats and scorecard from Danny Roman vs. Juan Carlos Payano.

Danny Roman wins by unanimous decision (116-112 x3).

Roman:

“I don’t take anything away from Payano. I knew it would be a tough fight. He brought everything he could and I took it, made it a fight and came out victorious.

“He kept on landing his uppercut to the body early, but we adjusted our defense to avoid the shot and tried to pressure. I couldn’t brawl with him, so I had to box and use my distance a little more.

“He was countering me well because I wasn’t taking the distance away. I had to either block or get out of the way. After I started doing that, it worked out and I started throwing combinations. I saw I was hurting him to the body so I kept putting pressure on.

“I was trying to win every round and dominate. The last four rounds my trainer told me to step it up so the same thing didn’t happen that happened in my last fight. That’s what we did. We made the last few rounds convincing.

“We’re at the level and ready to fight the Luis Nery vs. Aaron Alameda winner. I still have unfinished business with Murodjon Akhmadaliev. I want that rematch. If not that, then I’m ready to fight Angelo Leo.

“It’s always good to have your hand raised. I can’t take anything away from Payano. He’s a veteran and he knows a lot of tricks. I had to adjust. It feels good to get a win again and I’m looking to keep that feeling going.”

Charlo decisions Derevyanchenko; Retains Middleweight Title

Jermall Charlo retained the WBC Middleweight title with a hard fought and workmanlike 12-round unanimous decision over Sergit Derevyanchenko.

The fought was fought equally at distance and on the inside. Charlo controlled the fight at distance as he hurt Derevyanchenko a couple of times with hard rights. In round three, Charlo hurt and buckled Derevyanchnko with a left hook. Dereevyanchenko was cut under right eye and had his left eye almost swollen shut. That did not deter him at all as he proficient with body shots and even hurt Charlo with a couple of those flank shots.

In the end, Charlo built up a solid lead as the two battled down the stretch.

Charlo outlanded Derevyanchenko 219-180.

Charlo, 159.8 lbs of Houston won by scores of 118-110, 117-111 and 116-112 to stay perfect at 31-0. Derevyanchenko, 159.4 lbs of Brooklyn is 13-3.

116-112, 117-111 and 118-110

Quotes:

Jermall Charlo:

“I made my team proud and I did what I was supposed to do. I executed the game plan. Ronnie Shields told me that I passed the test tonight. I’m happy to go back to the drawing board now and figure out what’s next.

“He was tough, but I knew he was going to be tough. I knew he’d come to fight, I just didn’t know how and when he’d try to turn it up. I felt like I never really let him turn it up and that was the game plan. I studied well and I didn’t let the pandemic affect my training. I just want to keep fighting and not let any negative interrupt the positive.

“I stayed poised, I stayed composed and I executed the game plan. I was staying behind the jab, I got away from it a little, but Ronnie got me back. I wanted to knock him out, but dominating like I did was a big statement.

“The big fights are out there. I’m steady learning and growing and stepping up in competition. My brother’s next, so that’s what’s really on my mind right now.”

“We stood toe-to-toe and we didn’t back down from anything. It was supposed to be one of the hardest fights of my career and we passed the test. He had a puncher’s chance, and of course the fight could have changed at any moment. I listened to my corner and executed the game plan and got the win.

“I wouldn’t say it was an easy fight, but we stuck to what we wanted to do and made it happen. I let my jab dictate and we got the victory. I wanted to knock him out, but you can’t knock everyone out. I’m a finisher, but you don’t want to run into anything even though you have him hurt. I landed the shots that I needed to in order to win.

“The whole world understands that I can fight in there with the best of them. He gave GGG a harder test than he gave me so I think the levels showed. I’m the best middleweight in the world.

“I’m not an easy fight for anyone. As long as I keep doing what I’m doing, I’ll get the fights I need and get the legacy that I always dreamed of.”

RONNIE SHIELDS

“I give his performance an A. Everyone was talking about how this is a tough fight, but every fight is tough. Jermall has one of the best jabs in the business. It’s a hard jab and he hurt Sergiy with it. He backed him up with it. I’m so proud of him. He showed that the better the competition, the better he gets.”

Figueroa stops Vazquez in 10 to Retain Super Bantam Title

Brandon Figueroa retained the WBA Super Bantamweight title with a 10th round stoppage over Damien Vazquez.

The fight was competitive for about a round and a half, before Figueroa got going and started to break down and bear up Vazquez. Vazquez right eye began to swell badly around round six. Over the last couple rounds, Vazquez took a lot of punishment and that’s when referee Gary Rosato stopped the fight at 1:18 of round 10.

Figueroa, 122 lbs of Weslaco, TX is 21-0-1 with 16 knockouts. Vazquez, 121.4 lbs of Thornton, CO is 15-2-1.

Figueroa:

“I felt good tonight. He was a lot tougher than I expected. I was punishing him to the body and head. I had to switch to lefty because of how he was coming in with his head. I didn’t want to risk a head butt so I boxed him differently.

“He was taking a lot of punishment and just trying to jab and survive in the last few rounds. I have to give him credit for being tough. He came to fight and proved he deserves to be in the ring with me. I knew with the pressure I put on, he wasn’t going to last 12 rounds.

“My dad told me to put more pressure in the middle of the fight and that’s what I did. He was holding up and taking my punches. But I knew just a little bit more damage and I could end it.

“I was just focused on boxing him and trying to find an opening, I wasn’t worried about what his corner was doing. At the end of the day, it’s just me and him in the ring. I was just trying to attack him and follow my game plan.

“I expected a little bit more out of myself. I did hurt my hand in the middle rounds, so I wasn’t throwing it too much. I just had to keep working. I knew that he had trouble with lefties, so I was able to find my range from that stance, hit him a lot more and eventually hurt him.

“I knew that I was going to win. We prepared great for this fight after having injuries in my last camp. All the hard work in the gym really paid off tonight.

“This shows that I can fight under pressure, I’m strong and I give exciting fights. That’s what fans want to see. I always leave everything in the ring and that’s what I did tonight.

“I’m ready for anyone, I know I belong with the best fighters in the division. I just want to give fans great fights.”

Casimero stops Micah in 3

John Riel Casimero defended the WBO Bantamweight title with a 3rd round stoppage over Duke Micah

In round two, Casimero dropped Micah with a hard right. Michah was hurt and stumbling throughout the rest of the round. In round three, Casimero came out and landed a hard barrage of punches that forced referee Steve Willis to stop the fight at

Casimero, 117.8 lbs of the Philippines is 30-4 with 21 knockouts. Micah, 117.2 lbs of Accra, GHA is 29-1.

Casimero:

“I worked hard and got the win tonight. In the first round I saw the body shot hurt him and thought I could get him out right away, but he’s a good boxer who was undefeated for a reason.

“The second round the uppercut hurt him, but Duke Micah works hard, he’s strong and has a good chin. I knew I was facing a good fighter, so I didn’t expect to knock him out so fast. He’s strong so I was prepared to go all 12 rounds.

“I’m the real monster. Naoya Inoue is scared of me. You’re next. I would have knocked out anyone today. If Inoue doesn’t fight me, then I’ll fight Guillermo Rigondeaux, Luis Nery, or any of the top fighters.”

CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER OFFICIAL WEIGHTS, AND COMMISSION OFFICIALS

WBC Middleweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Jermall Charlo – 159 ¾ lbs.

Sergiy Derevyanchenko – 159 ½ lbs.

Referee: Harvey Dock (New Jersey); Judges: David Sutherland (Oklahoma), Steve Weisfeld (New Jersey), Tim Cheatham (Las Vegas)

WBA Super Bantamweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Brandon Figueroa – 122 lbs.

Damien Vazquez – 121 ½ lbs.

Referee: Gary Rosato (Pennsylvania); Judges: John McKaie (New York), Glenn Feldman (Connecticut), Don Trella (Connecticut)

WBO Bantamweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

John Riel Casimero – 117 ¾ lbs.

Duke Micah – 117 ¼ lbs.

Referee: Steve Willis (New York); Judges: Julie Lederman (New York), John McKaie (New York), Tim Cheatham (Las Vegas)

WBC, WBA and IBF 154-pound Unification Bout – 12 Rounds

Jermell Charlo – 153 ¾ lbs.

Jeison Rosario – 153 ½ lbs.

Referee: Harvey Dock (New Jersey); Judges: Steve Weisfeld (New Jersey), Glenn Feldman (Connecticut) John McKaie (New York)

WBC Vacant Super Bantamweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Luis Nery – 121 ½ lbs.

Aaron Alameda – 121 ½ lbs.

Referee: Michael Ortega (Connecticut); Judges: Tom Carusone (Connecticut), Don Ackerman (New York), Julie Lederman (New York)

WBC Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator – 12 Rounds

Danny Roman – 121 ¼ lbs.

Juan Carlos Payano – 121 ½ lbs.

Referee: John Callas (Connecticut); Judges: Don Trella (Connecticut), David Sutherland (Oklahoma), Kevin Morgan (New York)

The announce team for the SHOWTIME PPV telecast is comprised of the most experienced and decorated boxing team on television. Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer is the host. Versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handles blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and four-time world champion Abner Mares. Two Hall of Famers round out the telecast team: boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer, and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. In addition, former world champion Raúl Marquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna serve as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

The executive producer of the SHOWTIME PPV telecast is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins, Jr. The director is Bob Dunphy, son of legendary Hall of Famer Don Dunphy. The pair has been guiding SHOWTIME Sports’ flagship series SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® since its inception in 1986 and has produced the three highest-grossing pay-per-view events of all time (Mayweather-Pacquiao, Mayweather-McGregor, Mayweather-Canelo).

The event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario match is co-promoted with Sampson 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

VIDEO: Charlo vs. Rosario/Charlo vs. Derevyanchenko: Weigh-In | SHOWTIME BOXING PPV

Pay-Per-View in the Bubble? A Tough Sell

By Norm Frauenheim–

It’s an intriguing weekend. Jermell and Jermall Charlo, maybe the most interesting brothers since the Klitschkos, are on one card, each in title fights.

Yuniel Dorticos and Mairis Briedis fight in a cruiserweight final of a concept, the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS), that somehow is back during a Pandemic that has made so much else oh-so forgettable. Josh Taylor is back for the first time in 11 months in a mandatory defense against challenger Apinun Khongsong in a London bout that could set up a long-awaited junior-welterweight showdown with Jose Ramirez.

It’s a loaded Saturday that tempts those of us – most of us – outside of the bubble to take a look. Maybe this is it, the moment when boxing begins to show it is ready to come out from behind closed doors and back under the marquee lights.

Hope springs eternal these days.

Then again, feints do, too.

Start with the Charlos, twins separated by only a vowel and six pounds. Jermell (33-1, 17 KOs) hopes to add Jeison Rosario’s (20-1-1, 14 KOs) two belts to his own, the World Council’s 154-pound belt. Jermall (30-0, 22 KOs) defends his WBC 160-pound belt against Sergiy Derevyanchenko (13-2, 10 KOs).

The Charlos are a good story. But they’re not a pay-per-view story. Not during a Pandemic or before one. Post-Pandemic, maybe. Even before Covid, their evolving careers were short of a major bout and name recognition. Nevertheless, a PPV tag, $74.95, has been attached to their featured bouts on a Showtime card (7 p.m. ET/ 4 p.m. PT) from the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn.

Will anybody pay to watch? Put it this way: Not many have been watching bubble bouts without the PPV price tag. Blame the economy. There’s not much disposable income. No stimulus from a deadlocked Congress, either. Fan interest has declined as much as the household budget. Fewer and fewer fans are watching.

There wasn’t much marketing momentum last Saturday in Showtime’s telecast of Erickson Lubin’s dull victory over Terrell Gausha. According to Nelsen, ratings for the Lubin-Gausha-featured card averaged 116,000 viewers. It peaked at 122,000, the smallest since Showtime resumed its boxing schedule August 1.

The trend seems to say — make that scream — for a couple of terrific bouts without the PPV investment. Boxing is in desperate need of some good advertising. The Charlo twins could do exactly that. They could retain an audience and perhaps bring back a few of those who have already left the building. But a PPV price tag threatens to keep them away, leaving the game wrapped in a buzz-less bubble.

Maybe, that changes on Oct. 17 when Vasiliy Lomachenko and Teofimo Lopez meet on ESPN in a lightweight bout loaded with pound-for-pound significance. It’s a fight still in the bubble, yet without a PPV tag.

Maybe, it only changes with what would be a surprising return of Canelo Alvarez, the leading PPV star over the last couple of years., The Athletic reported Thursday that Canelo is talking to DAZN, which he had sued along with his promoter, Oscar De La Hoya. The suit was dismissed for a technicality. A simple rewrite would restore it. An amended lawsuit is due Monday. According to The Athletic, DAZN is offering Canelo $20 million, about $15 million less than the per-fight purse included in his original contract with the streaming service.

Maybe, maybe. Maybe, Terence Crawford is close to a deal to fight Kell Brook on Nov. 14. Maybe, fans will be allowed to sit in socially-distanced seats for Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder 3, targeted for Dec. 19 at the brand new Allegiant Stadium, the Raiders new home in Las Vegas.

The bubble is full of more maybes than real fights. Don’t make the fans pay for the little that is real. They can’t afford it. Neither can boxing.

QUOTES FROM FINAL PRESS CONFERENCES – First-Of-Its-Kind Doubleheader Live on SHOWTIME PPV This Saturday, September 26 Presented by Premier Boxing Champions

UNCASVILLE, CT. – September 23, 2020 – WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo and WBC Super Welterweight Champion Jermell Charlo previewed the CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER at final press conferences Wednesday, as they went face to face with the opponents presenting the toughest tests of their careers.

Jermall will face top contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko headlining part one of the doubleheader, while Jermell takes on WBA and IBF 154-pound champion Jeison Rosario in the main event of part two of the twin bill taking place this Saturday, September 26 live on SHOWTIME PPV (7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT), in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The press conferences included all 12 fighters participating on the stacked pay-per-view event featuring six competitive fights in all, five of which are world title fights.

The three-fight Charlo vs. Derevyanchenko card will see WBA Super Bantamweight Champion Brandon Figueroa defending his title against 122-pound contender Damien Vázquez in the co-main event, plus WBO Bantamweight World Champion John Riel Casimero battling unbeaten Duke Micah in the pay-per-view opener.

Following a 30-minute intermission at the conclusion of Charlo vs. Derevyanchenko, the three-fight Charlo vs. Rosario card will begin. Unbeaten former champion Luis Nery takes on undefeated Aaron Alameda for the vacant WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship in the co-main event, while former unified champion Danny Román duels former champion Juan Carlos Payano in a WBC Super Bantamweight title eliminator kicking off the second portion of the pay-per-view.

The event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario match is co-promoted with Sampson Boxing.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday from Mohegan Sun in Connecticut:

JERMALL CHARLO

“This is just the beginning for me. There’s been 30 fighters who’ve tried to beat me, and all 30 failed. We’ll get a chance to get in there and do what we do best on Saturday. Talk is cheap. We’ll see where that green belt goes on Saturday.

“I’m focused and locked in. I’m ready to fight. Sergiy can say what he wants to say about me, it’s going to be a fight on Saturday.

“This is like the Super Bowl for us. At the end of the day, we’re always ready to fight. This is what we do and this is what we prepare ourselves for. We’re true warriors.

“Derevyanchenko is looking past me. His trainer and his whole camp, they’re all looking past me. They’re going to find out what they’re in for on Saturday.

“I’m the best in the world. On Saturday night, everyone will get a chance to see it live on SHOWTIME PPV.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“Saturday night is going to be my history-making performance. This is something that I’ve always wanted and that I’ve always trained for. I’ve put in the hard work for every fight I’ve ever had, and this is what it’s all been for.

“People will say that they can’t wait to see us fight again after Saturday. We come to fight. We prepared all our life for this. Now is our time. The big dogs are here to stay. We’re veterans in this game and we love this sport. To make it to this stage, there’s nothing bigger for us. This is our Super Bowl. This is our national championship. It’s time for us to go get our belts.

“This is about my legacy and my career. I want everyone to see what I’m made of. [Jeison] Rosario is a tough fighter with a lot of good attributes. He’s coming to fight. Styles make fights and we’re going to see that in the ring.

“We’re going to put on a show. Knowing my brother is also fighting gives me more energy. Fight night is when you see all our excitement and all our hard work pouring out. This is huge for us. We’re both doing our thing and feeding off each other’s energy.

“Just being on this stage makes you buckle in and focus a lot better. I’m 30 years old and I want to push myself and keep testing my limits. That’s what’s gotten me to this stage right now.

“I have confidence in my skills and I’m going to bring some new tricks out of my hat.”

SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO

“The green color of the WBC belt suits me. I want that green belt. I’ve fought twice for the title, and I’m more ready than ever for the third time.

“I was happy to have the break after the Gennadiy Golovkin fight. I got good rest. I’m relaxed, and when I came back to the United States, I was ready to train and now I’m ready to fight. It all helped me.

“Golovkin and Daniel Jacobs were tough fights, they were both close fights and I think those experiences definitely helped me. I’ll show it in the ring on Saturday.

“I’m going to put pressure on him from the beginning. I’m going to use my legs, my jab and combinations to get the win.

“We always train hard and we have great sparring partners to prepare us. They’ve shown me what he’s going to bring to the ring. Now we just have to take our strategy and use it in the ring on Saturday.

“This is a big fight. When I win, even more opportunities will open up. I’ll be able to unify and take my career to the next level.”

JEISON ROSARIO

“People are going to see on Saturday that it was no fluke that I beat Julian Williams the way that I did.

“This is going to be a war. I’m a warrior, and I’m going to find a way to win. That’s the only thing on my mind.

“I don’t feel any pressure, it’s an obligation – not only to my family, but to all of Latin America – to win these titles. There’s no room in my mind for the possibility of not winning. That’s going to be clear on Saturday night.

“I’m prepared for the fight to go the distance, but I also have the stamina to finish it early and take advantage of my opportunity.

“I don’t have to understand what Jermell is saying on stage to know that he thinks he’s going to win, just like I think I’m going to win. That’s what makes this a great fight, but nothing is going to change my mindset.

“Training camp was great despite the pandemic. I feel strong, healthy and confident. Jermell is a great fighter with a lot of power, but I’m the better overall fighter and the world will see that on Saturday.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“I’m excited to be back to doing what I do best and that’s getting in the ring and giving the fans a great show.

“It’s been a very unique circumstance training for this fight during the pandemic, but we made the most of it. I’m very fortunate that I have access to a private gym, so I was able to stay consistent with my training. Sparring was a little difficult, but I was able to venture out after a while and get some good sessions in. Even though this is the longest I’ve gone without a fight, I never took much time off.

“Vazquez is a good, tough opponent but I really don’t think he’ll be able to handle the pressure that I’m going to bring. I’m an action fighter but I can do it all. I can bang, but I can also box – and my dad wants me to box even more and tag him on the outside. I don’t think he’ll be able to handle my body shots.

“I feel like this fight won’t last too long, because I had such a good training camp. I keep getting better and stronger and I’m ready to showcase that Saturday night.”

DAMIEN VAZQUEZ

“If he says it won’t go past six rounds, then he’s going to have to work hard. I’m going to make sure it’ an all-out war. He’s going to have to earn everything.

“I’m ready to go. To be honest, this is the most excited I’ve ever been about a fight. He has two hands and his heart beats like mine. There’s nothing to be scared about in facing my opponent.

“No disrespect to the Charlos, but I want to be fight of the night and steal the show. May the best man win. I’m confident that will be me. Plain and simple.”

JOHN RIEL CASIMERO

“This is my first time on SHOWTIME so I want to give everyone watching an impressive performance. I’ll go for the knockout.

“This is a big opportunity show the world who I am. I promise I will do my best this fight. I am extremely ready to give it my all.

“My opponent is a mature boxer with good experience. But I’m going to be too strong for him. I believe I’m the best at 118-pounds.”

DUKE MICAH

“I’m so grateful for this moment. This is a massive night for me. It all comes down to this and we are coming to win.

“I have to stick to my game plan. I expect my opponent to box and move. I’ve prepared for a couple attacks that I think he will use. I’ve never been more ready for a fight than I am for this one.

“Casimero is a good boxer, but I’m a different fighter than I’ve been in the past. I’ve improved my game so much working with Andre Rozier. The fans will see it on Saturday night, and they will become instant fans of my electrifying style.”

LUIS NERY

“Everyone knows about my strength and knockout power, but my technique and preparation will play a part to help me win this fight.

“I’m excited for the challenge of moving up in weight. I want to dominate across multiple weight classes. That’s going to start Saturday night with a big statement against [Aaron] Alameda.

“This is really one of the best training camps I’ve ever had. I’ve been working with Eddy Reynoso, he’s focused on a lot of different aspects of my game that I can show in the ring on Saturday.

“The level of the fighter that Alameda has fought is not too impressive. On Saturday he’s going to face someone who’s on a whole new level from anything he’s ever faced.”

AARON ALAMEDA

“Everyone knows I’m the underdog, but after Saturday, everyone is going to know who Aaron Alameda is. I prepared hard like I always do, and you will see that from me in this fight.

“This fight was supposed to take place back in March, but I’ve been able to take the last six months to prepare even better and make sure I’m 100 percent the best version of myself.

“There’s so much on the line that I don’t think not having fans will have any effect. It’s pay-per-view and that means a lot of eyeballs will be on me. This fight means everything for me and my career.”

DANNY ROMAN

“I am coming off of losing the titles and that has made me hungrier than before. I am going again against a quality fighter like [Juan Carlos] Payano, and I don’t believe this is going the distance.

“I always make weight. I am still eating right now, and I think I will be eating before the weigh-in. I don’t struggle with the weight and I even think with a good diet I might be able to make 118 pounds.

“My style is to go in there and give the best of me and try to make my fight, the fight of the night. There are a lot of great fighters up here, but I’m trying to steal the show. We’re going to do whatever is possible to get this win.”

JUAN CARLOS PAYANO

“I’ve faced better fighters than [Danny] Roman and I’m not going to back down against anyone. I’m ready for him to bring it. I’ve been on this stage before. I train to win every fight no matter what.

“I was already in training camp before the shutdown and I haven’t stopped working since. It’s been a long training camp, but we’re here now and I’m prepared.

“I didn’t come to talk too much. People will see the results on Saturday. I’m ready to show everyone that my power will be there in this fight.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.

“I’d like to acknowledge the fighters and all of their camps for cooperating with us, complying with the protocols, and for meeting this challenge.

“The fans have spoken, and we listened. Fans wanted the best fighting the best. Well, we’ve got that. Without question, this is not just the biggest pay-per-view card of the year, but there is also the most value for your money on this card. I’ve never been involved with a card that has this level of quality and this level of star power”.

“We are proud that the Charlo’s are returning home to SHOWTIME after they came of age on this network. This is the fight fans’ fight card, with top to bottom can’t-miss action guaranteed on Saturday night.”

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ABOUT CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER
The CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER takes place Saturday, September 26 on SHOWTIME PPV with an unprecedented event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. The pay-per-view begins at a special time of 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and features six compelling fights in all, five of which are world title fights, on the same night for one price. The SHOWTIME PPV telecast begins with the Jermall Charlo vs. Sergiy Derevyanchenko three-fight card followed by a 30-minute intermission and then the Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario three-fight card.

Part one of the SHOWTIME PPV is headlined by WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo facing top contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko. WBA Super Bantamweight Champion Brandon Figueroa will defend his title against 122-pound contender Damien Vázquez in the co-featured bout, while WBO Bantamweight World Champion John Riel Casimero faces off against unbeaten Duke Micah in the pay-per-view opener.

The second three-fight card is headlined by the historic unification matchup between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Jermell Charlo and IBF and WBA 154-pound champion Jeison Rosario. Unbeaten former champion Luis Nery will battle undefeated Aaron Alameda for the vacant WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship in the co-feature, while former unified champion Danny Román faces off against former champion Juan Carlos Payano in a WBC Super Bantamweight title eliminator bout to open the second installment of the pay-per-view.

The event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario match is co-promoted with Sampson Boxing.

LIVE VIDEO: Charlo Doubleheader Press Conference

SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO TRAINING CAMP NOTES

NEW YORK – September 21, 2020 – Top contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko believes that his combination of skills and experience will make him the toughest challenge that WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo has faced in his career, as they near their showdown this Saturday, September 26 headlining part one of CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER, a SHOWTIME PPV event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

“I’ll definitely be his toughest test at middleweight,” said Derevyanchenko. “Jermall has never faced anyone like me. I’ll apply more pressure than he’s used to. He’s also never faced anyone with my footwork. I’ll fight more on the inside than his previous opponents.”

Derevyanchenko sports a 13-2 pro record with 10 knockouts, following an extensive amateur career that included representing his native Ukraine at the 2008 Olympics as part of his 390-20 overall ledger. A pro since 2014, Derevyanchenko’s experience in the amateurs has aided him as he climbed up the middleweight division in the paid ranks.

“My amateur experience has helped me a lot,” said Derevyanchenko. “I came to the pros with much more experience in the ring than most other fighters and it’s been a big part of what I’ve accomplished. I believe that all of that experience will help me get the win on Saturday and take Charlo’s belt.”

The 34-year-old now lives in Brooklyn and has avoided any negative training impact of the pandemic by working with his head trainer Andre Rozier at their private gym in New Jersey. September 26 will be Derevyanchenko’s third world title fight, after losing a narrow decision to Gennadiy Golovkin last October and a split decision against Daniel Jacobs in 2018. Each of his previous title fights have presented different experiences that he can take into the Charlo fight, based off the similarities and differences between the opponents.

“Golovkin is a very different fighter than Charlo, but Jacobs is similar stylistically, so that’s something I’ll be used to,” said Derevyanchenko. “This training camp has been very similar to camps for my previous fights though. We just brought in different sparring partners for this one. We’re using fighters who can show us what Charlo will bring to the ring.

“We’re making necessary adjustments based off all our experience and developing a game plan specifically for Charlo. The sparring partners have been giving me great work and I’m absolutely ready for September 26.”

In both of his title opportunities, Derevyanchenko has suffered a knockdown in the first round, only to battle back and nearly win the fight. Despite the similar script, Derevyanchenko is not focusing on those opening round mistakes as he prepares for Charlo.

“I’ll be very focused in the early rounds against Charlo, we’re not dwelling on the past,” said Derevyanchenko. “We always have an eye looking forward. I’ll try to get the win faster against Charlo, so we’ll be applying more pressure early.

“Those first round knockdowns were just brief moments in those fights. I quickly moved on, put them behind me and fought my way back into it. I told myself that I may have lost the first round, but I just had to be better in the remaining rounds.”

With fight week here and the bulk of the hard training behind him, Derevyanchenko is prepared for the challenge Charlo presents, no matter how the fight goes or which strategy Charlo enters the ring with.

“I’m not solely focused on the fight going one certain way, we just have our game plan and we’ll see what happens in the ring,” said Derevyanchenko. “If I can knock him out, I’ll be ready to go for it. But if it goes 12 rounds, I have all of the skills to win a decision.”

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ABOUT CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER
The CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER takes place Saturday, September 26 on SHOWTIME PPV with an unprecedented event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. The PPV begins at a special time of 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and features six compelling fights in all, five of which are world title fights, on the same night for one price. The SHOWTIME PPV telecast begins with the Jermall Charlo vs. Sergiy Derevyanchenko three-fight card followed by a 30-minute intermission and then the Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario three-fight card.

The event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario match is co-promoted with Sampson Boxing.

JERMALL CHARLO VIRTUAL MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

HOUSTON – September 14, 2020 – Unbeaten WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo brought fans and media into his training camp Monday with a virtual media workout as he prepares to face top contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko to headline part one of a first-of-its-kind SHOWTIME PPV doubleheader Saturday, September 26 in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Charlo was joined Monday by his longtime trainer Ronnie Shields as he showed off a variety of skills while training for the toughest opponent of his pro career. Charlo vs. Derevyanchenko will headline the first part of the special PPV doubleheader that begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, before his twin brother and WBC Super Welterweight Champion Jermell Charlo steps in for the main event of part two against WBA and IBF 154-pound champion Jeison Rosario.

The workout streamed live on the PBC YouTube page and can be viewed in its entirety HERE. Here is what Charlo and Shields had to say Monday:

JERMALL CHARLO

“I know that it’s my time to shine and my time to give everyone the best that I can give. I’m striving to be one of the best to ever lace up a pair of gloves.

“The fans that love me can expect me to do what I do. The fans who don’t know about me, they’re going to see a smart, strong and athletic fighter. You’re going to see all of it in the ring on September 26.

“I came from nothing, so I want to put everyone on. I want to make sure Ronnie Shields gets into the Hall of Fame. We’re looking to do something in boxing that no one has ever done.

“When I look outside this gym, I say there’s no way I’m losing. I’m carrying my whole family on my back. Houston, we have another one. I’m doing it for everybody here.

“I’m telling those other middleweights to buckle your seatbelts. It’s lift off. Everyone that doubted me, everyone who wants a chance, you’ll get your turn. I’m running the show. You just stay locked in.

“My power is growing along with me. With some fights you need to add more power and sometimes your power just naturally increases. I’ve gotten a lot stronger and a lot smarter, so I’ve been able to use my skills to go along with my power heading into this fight.

“Derevyanchenko is a come forward fighter. He’s going to bring a lot of power and speed with good technical skills. He calls himself ‘The Technician’ but we’ll see how technical he is once I start putting my jab in his face. I’m going to use all my natural skills in this fight.

“After I win this fight the sky is the limit. I know people will respect me a lot more after this, but I’m focused on only this fight. This fight is another big stepping stone toward even bigger fights to come.

“A lot of people don’t really know where the Charlos came from and they’re getting the chance to learn it throughout this time. It’s taken to this point for everyone to see that we belong on this big stage. I’m grateful for everyone around me who’s embraced me with love.

“We don’t have too much longer to be doing this. Where are the rest of the belts at? I’m ready. Watch next Saturday night, because I’m making this statement loud for everyone who doubted me.”

RONNIE SHIELDS, Charlo’s Trainer

“It means a lot to be in this position. It shows you that your fighter has made it to the top. He’s at the point where people want to see the champion of the world. It’s great to be there with him and help him to this level in the sport.

“At this moment, Jermall is in great shape and he’s just about ready. We still have another week of hard training to go, then we’ll start coming down next week. He’s really sharp right now and we just have to keep him that way.

“Houston loves winners and this guy is a winner. People know he’s a family man also and he works very hard for everything he’s gotten. He’s always shouting out Houston because this is where he’s from and it’s important to him.

“I’ve had so many good fighters in my career, but Jermall is right up there at the top with Evander Holyfield, Vernon Forrest and Pernell Whitaker. He works hard and pays attention to what he has to do. The thing that separates them is that he knows how to watch his opponent and he knows what he’s in for.

“Just like every opponent, we expect Sergiy to be at his best. We expect Sergiy to come in and try to win and be the best he can possibly be. Jermall is doing the same thing. No stone will be left unturned. We go over the game plan every day.”

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ABOUT CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER PPV
The CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER takes place Saturday, September 26 on SHOWTIME PPV with an unprecedented event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. The PPV begins at a special time of 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and features six compelling fights in all, five of which are world title fights, on the same night for one price. The SHOWTIME PPV telecast begins with the Jermall Charlo vs. Sergiy Derevyanchenko three-fight card followed by a 30-minute intermission and then the Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario three-fight card.

The event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario match is co-promoted with Sampson Boxing.

VIDEO: THE JOURNEY: Charlo Doubleheader | SHOWTIME PPV

VIDEO: Jermall Charlo Media Workout

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SHOWTIME SPORTS® ANNOUNCES PRICE AND PROGRAMMING LINEUP FOR SEPTEMBER 26 PAY-PER-VIEW CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER

NEW YORK – September 11, 2020 – SHOWTIME Sports announced today the price and programming lineup for the first-of-its-kind pay-per-view doubleheader on Saturday, September 26, featuring two stacked fight cards each headlined by one of the world champion Charlo twins in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. The SHOWTIME PPV^® event, CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER, is available for purchase at a suggested retail price (SRP) of $74.95 and includes six compelling fights, five of which are world championship bouts.

The CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER, which begins at a special time of 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, can be purchased for live streaming and via cable and satellite pay-per-view providers. Viewers can purchase the CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER in the SHOWTIME app on Apple tvOS and iOS devices, FireTV, Android Mobile, Android TV, Chromecast, Xbox One and contemporary Roku players and Roku TVs. The event is also available for purchase online at SHOWTIME.com and through cable and satellite pay-per-view distributors.

THE EVENT

The first card of the SHOWTIME PPV telecast will be headlined by undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo defending his title against Sergiy Derevyanchenko. WBA Super Bantamweight Champion Brandon Figueroa will defend his title against Damien Vázquez in the co-featured bout, while WBO Bantamweight World Champion John Riel Casimero faces off against Duke Micah in the pay-per-view opener. Following the main event and a 30-minute intermission, the second three-fight card headlined by WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Jermell Charlo facing unified 154-pound World Champion Jeison Rosario will begin. Luis Nery will battle Aaron Alameda for the vacant WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship in the co-feature, while former unified champion Danny Román faces former champion Juan Carlos Payano in a WBC Super Bantamweight title eliminator bout to open the second three-fight card of the pay-per-view.

TELECAST TEAM

THE JOURNEY: CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER and DIGITAL PROGRAMMING LINEUP

In the leadup to the unprecedented two-event pay-per-view, SHOWTIME Sports will produce and premiere THE JOURNEY: CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER, a 30-minute show that chronicles the unique story of Jermall and Jermell, twins born one minute apart in Houston, Texas, as they rise through the ranks and put themselves in position to become global boxing stars. Voiced by SHOWTIME boxing host Brian Custer, THE JOURNEY: CHARLO DOUBLEHEADER features rarely seen footage and gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at their most pivotal career moments, motivations, and life outside of the ring.

THE JOURNEY will premiere on SHOWTIME on Sunday, September 13 at 11:30 p.m. ET/PT and will be available for free on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and all SHOWTIME On Demand platforms.

SHOWTIME Sports^® will also release new episodes of the original, digital franchise RING RESUME which examines the career progressions of boxing’s top stars, available on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel. Beginning Monday, September 21, the SHOWTIME Boxing Snapchat page will focus on high-energy fight and training camp highlights featuring the Charlos. In addition, the Snapchat page will feature the Charlos’ RING RESUMES and THE JOURNEY to expand reach to young audiences with short-form, fast-paced storytelling. Plus, Brendan Schaub and Kenny Florian will preview the keys to the fights on BELOW THE BELT BREAKDOWN, available on the BELOW THE BELT YouTube channel.

MORNING KOMBAT INTERMISSION

Combat sports aficionados Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell will host a 30-minute intermission show after the conclusion of the Charlo vs. Derevyanchenko main event and the start of the second three-fight card. The duo, hosts of the popular live combat sports talk show and podcast MORNING KOMBAT, will also host live streams of the main events press conference and official weigh-in in addition to providing in-depth coverage on MORNING KOMBAT throughout the week. The official weigh-in and main events press conference will stream live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page.

UNBEATEN 160-POUND CHAMPION JERMALL CHARLO FACES SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO IN PART ONE OF FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND SHOWTIME PPV DOUBLEHEADER PRESENTED BY PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

NEW YORK – September 1, 2020 – Unbeaten WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo faces the toughest test of his career in top 160-pound contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko on Saturday, September 26 in part one of a first-of-its-kind SHOWTIME PPV doubleheader presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The unprecedented pay-per-view twin bill features six compelling fights in all, five of which are world title fights, on the same night for one price. Part one of the SHOWTIME PPV telecast begins live at a special time of 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT with the Charlo vs. Derevyanchenko three-fight card. WBA Super Bantamweight Champion Brandon Figueroa will defend his title against 122-pound contender Damien Vázquez in the co-featured bout, while WBO Bantamweight World Champion John Riel Casimero faces off against unbeaten Duke Micah in the pay-per-view opener.

Following the main event of part one and a 30-minute intermission, the second three-fight card headlined by WBC Super Welterweight World Champion and twin brother Jermell Charlo facing arguably the toughest test of his career in unified 154-pound World Champion Jeison Rosario will begin. The event is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions as part of a blockbuster pay-per-view event.

Houston’s Jermall Charlo (30-0, 22 KOs) has held the WBC middleweight title since 2019 and reigned as the IBF 154-pound champion from 2015 to ’17. The 30-year-old holds wins at 154 pounds against championship-level fighters including Julian Williams, Cornelius Bundrage and Austin Trout. While campaigning at middleweight, Charlo is 5-0 with three knockouts, including victories in 2019 over Brandon Adams and, most recently, Dennis Hogan in December.

Derevyanchenko (13-2, 10 KOs) has twice challenged for the IBF middleweight title in 2018 and ’19, losing only to top-level opponents Daniel Jacobs and Gennadiy Golovkin. He was an accomplished amateur and a 2008 Olympian for his native Ukraine before turning pro in 2014. The 34-year-old now trains out of Brooklyn and owns victories over Jack Culcay and Tureano Johnson that propelled him up the 160-pound rankings.

The four undercard matchups across the two shows feature some of the best talent in the 118- and 122-pound divisions, including two world champions (Figueroa and Casimero), a WBC No. 1 ranked contender (Nery) and two WBA No. 2 ranked fighters (Danny Roman and Juan Carlos Payano). In all, the eight undercard fighters boast a combined record of 190-11-3, including four men who have yet to taste defeat. With champions and contenders including newly-crowned WBO 122-pound titlist Angelo Leo and No. 1 contender Stephen Fulton waiting in the wings for future world title and unification fights, all four undercard bouts carry high stakes and world title implications.

The 23-year-old Figueroa (20-0-1, 15 KOs) looks to make his second successful title defense on September 26. A Weslaco, Texas native and younger brother of former world champion Omar Figueroa, he claimed the interim WBA 122-pound title with an eighth-round stoppage of Yonfrez Parejo last April, before successfully defending the title with a homecoming KO of Javier Chacon. After being upgraded to the “regular” titlist, Figueroa retained his belt after a 12-round draw against former champion Julio Ceja last November.

The 23-year-old southpaw Vázquez (15-1-1, 7 KOs) was born in Thornton, Colo. and now fights out of Las Vegas. The younger cousin of former two-time champion Israel Vázquez is coming off a stoppage win over Alejandro Moreno in February of 2020. Vázquez turned pro in 2013 and reeled off 14 consecutive wins to begin his career in the paid ranks.

The 31-year-old Casimero (29-4, 20 KOs) of the Philippines will make his first title defense after being previously scheduled to face Naoya Inoue in a bantamweight unification title fight in April before the COVID-19 shutdown. Casimero has been training in Las Vegas since March and won the title with an impressive third-round stoppage of Zolani Tete last November. The three-division champion had previously captured titles at flyweight and light flyweight.

Born in the boxing hotbed of Accra, Ghana, the undefeated Micah (24-0, 19 KOs) has fought his last four bouts in the United States, most recently scoring victories in 2019 over Luis Suarez Cruz in August and Janiel Rivera in December. The 28-year-old now trains out of Brooklyn, N.Y. and has fought professionally since 2012.

TWO STACKED CARDS SET FOR CHARLO TWINS SHOWTIME PPV® DOUBLEHEADER

NEW YORK – September 1, 2020 – In a first-of-its-kind boxing event, and a doubleheader unlike any other in sports, SHOWTIME PPV and Premier Boxing Champions have assembled two stacked fight cards with each card headlined by one of the world champion Charlo twins in their most significant fights to date. On Saturday, September 26, the unprecedented twin bill features WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo facingtop contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko in the main event of the first card. The second card is topped by WBC Super Welterweight Champion Jermell Charlo taking onWBA and IBF 154-pound champion Jeison Rosario in a world championship unification fight.

The unprecedented pay-per-view twin bill features six compelling fights in all, five of which are world title fights, on the same night for one price. The SHOWTIME PPV telecast begins with the Charlo vs. Derevyanchenko three-fight card live at a special time of 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT followed by a 30-minute intermission and then the Charlo vs. Rosario three-fight card.

“The Charlo twins are two of boxing’s most charismatic and exciting stars, and they are facing the most significant challenges of their respective careers,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “It’s only right that Jermell and Jermall would headline this extraordinary doubleheader. Jeison Rosario proved just how dangerous he is when he stopped Julian Williams in January to become the unified champion and he has shown his considerable ambition by going right into this showdown against Jermell. Sergiy Derevyanchenko has given some of the best middleweights in the world everything they could handle, and many believe he should be a 160-pound champion right now. He’s going to face another one of the very best middleweights on September 26 and there is no doubt he’ll be at his best when he steps to Jermall.

“With the addition of two sensational undercard bouts on each card, three of which are world title fights, this special event is a boxing fan’s dream and will deliver hours of dramatic action.”

“This event is a cornerstone, two cornerstones, in fact, of the 2020 SHOWTIME Sports boxing schedule,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, SHOWTIME. “The parallel paths of the Charlo twins converge when they take on their most significant opponents to date. In doing so, each man has a chance to assert himself individually on the biggest stage in the sport. Likewise, the four undercard matchups across the two shows feature some of the best talent in the 118 and 122-pound divisions, virtually all in 50-50 matchups. This is truly a special event, delivered at a special time and in an unprecedented way. As a fight fan, I cannot wait for September 26.”

This unique pay-per-view doubleheader is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Jermell Charlo vs. Jeison Rosario match is co-promoted with Sampson Boxing.

JERMALL CHARLO vs. SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO KICK-OFF PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES AHEAD OF FIRST-EVER SHOWTIME PPVDOUBLEHEADER ON SEPTEMBER 26

NEW YORK – August 31, 2020 -Unbeaten WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo and top 160-pound contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko spoke to the press during a kick-off virtual press conference Monday as they preview the main event of part one of the first-of-its-kind SHOWTIME PPV doubleheader on Saturday, September 26 in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Five of the six fighters who will be competing in part one of the unprecedented event, which features three world title fights, participated in today’s media call. WBA Super Bantamweight Champion Brandon Figueroa will defend his title against 122-pound contender Damien Vazquez in the co-featured bout, while WBO Bantamweight World Champion John Riel Casimero faces off against unbeaten Duke Micah in the pay-per-view opener. Figueroa was unable to join today’s call due to technical issues.

Here is what the virtual press conference participants to say Monday:

JERMALL CHARLO:

“It’s going to be fireworks and an explosive night of boxing. I can’t wait. Everyone is calling this a test and a big step up, so I’m training hard and preparing well.

“He lost both of those fights against Gennadiy Golovkin and Daniel Jacobs. Competitive or not, that’s what happened. He’s a warrior though and I want him to be sharp so he can give me the best he can give me. This is going to be a real fight, just know that.

“I’m going to be super sharp. That’s the message I want to deliver to all of the other middleweights out there.

“I thought I might need to out-perform Jacobs and Golovkin, but as long as I continue to be myself, I will get the victory and I’ll have my hand raised. I’m smart, stronger and better than I used to be. Every fight is a different fight. I let my trainer do the studying and I’m just focused on what I have to do.

“He’s coming straight to me and fighting. That’s what I expect. You want me to go toe-to-toe? That’s what I expect to do.

“Everybody is doubting me. I’ve been doubted for years. It’s not anger. I don’t care what my opponent or his trainer says about me. I’m a fighter and I’m ready for this. I really want to just get in there and fight.

“After this fight, people are going to say that I’m a great fighter. I’m the best in the world. I know Sergiy feels that way too. So we get to clash in the ring. I’m expecting a fight. I haven’t left the gym since February. I’ve been locked in. I wanted this opportunity to get in there and be me.

“If it goes the distance, I’m prepared for the distance. If he can’t take the power, then I’m going to finish him off.

“I’m no Daniel Jacobs, and I know Andre is probably trying to compare that fight to me, because he worked Jacobs’ corner. I know Andre has been studying me for a long time and now he gets to see what his other fighter can do against me.

“I’ve been at home training like crazy. I’m at the top of my game. I’m not worried about what anyone is saying. I know this is a so-called step up fight, but I’m ready for whatever the challenge comes. You’ll get a chance to see me be the best Jermall Charlo that he can be.”

SERGIY DEREVYANCHENKO:

“My training is progressing. I’ve been in the gym working out, keeping fit, eating healthy and doing everything that I’m supposed to do. I’m anxiously waiting for September 26. You can expect the same type of fight from me that you saw against Golovkin.

“I’ve had the experience of fighting at this level against the likes of Jacobs and Golovkin, which gave me the confidence and experience of fighting at the highest level. I have supreme, utmost confidence in myself.

“Charlo thinks he’s the best in the world and I believe I’m the best in the world. I think I’m the better fighter. The great thing is that we’re actually going to get a chance to settle it and we’ll see who the best in the world really is.

“I’m just focused on my opponent and what I have to do on September 26. The goal is to go in there and take the belt from him and bring it home.

“What I’ve said before is that I have a lot of experience and that might be an issue for Charlo. I never said it would be too much for him, but we will find out on fight night.

“I need to just stick with my game plan. We have a plan in place. I’m going to do what I have to do. If there’s a chance to knock him out, I will knock him out. If it goes 12 rounds, I’ll do the best that I can and show the judges that I am the winner.”

DAMIEN VASQUEZ:

“Training camp during the pandemic has actually been great. We’re doing everything by the rules as far as people staying away from public places and we’re taking our tests. The fans should be expecting a Mexican war and I plan on stealing the show and being the fight of the night.

“I’m going to stand by everything I’ve said up until this point and up until the fight. I’m confident in my work, confident in my team and I know what to expect on fight night.

“Figueroa has some weapons, but I know what to look out for from him… It’s going to be a full-on Mexican war. All of the boxing [technique] goes right out the window – let’s make it a phone booth fight and steal fight of the night.

“This is all the marbles on the table for me. I don’t have anything to lose in this fight, I really don’t. This fight changes my life and everybody else’s life around me. I’m going in there with everything I’ve got.

“Why would I go in there and be scared to lose? The Payano fight that everybody saw – that wasn’t me. I had some things going on outside of the ring, but I’m focused now and I’m ready to go. After that fight, I got my stuff together and I’m physically and mentally ready to give it my all September 26. You’re about to see the real Damien.

“I respect Brandon, he’s a champion for a reason, but when we step into that ring all my respect for him goes right out the window. I want to show the world that I’m a force to be reckoned with and I’m about to take my throne in the 122-pound weight class.”

JOHN RIEL CASIMERO:

“This is a great fight for me to defend my title. I know I’m facing a good undefeated fighter, but I will do everything I can to have my hand raised on fight night.

“I’m training very hard in camp. I’m glad I have plenty of time for this matchup and I plan on being in great shape to compete on fight night.

“If I get through this fight, I’m still hoping to fight for a bantamweight unification fight. That’s my dream. I’m fighting for my daughters and my whole family, so I’m ready to do my best.

“I’ve had a long time to train because of the pandemic. I’m really excited to get in the ring and focus on this win. After that, I can move onto the next opponent.

“This is big for me to be on SHOWTIME PPV. I’m excited to get in there and put on the best performance that I can.

“Despite the Inoue fight being cancelled, I’m still very hungry. I’m excited to fight on this card and I look forward to all the big fights that are out there. First I have to get by Micah.”

DUKE MICAH:

“I’m coming there to win. This is my dream. This is what I’ve set my mind on since my childhood. I’ve always dreamed to be a world champion and I’m so thankful to be taking on Casimero, one of the best boxers from the Philippines, because I know he’s a very good opponent. That’s what I want and what the fans want to see, so we have to make it exciting.

“Training was fantastic. Everything is good. We’ve been training hard for this fight because we know Casimero is a very good boxer. He knows what he’s doing and I also know what I’m doing so I’ve been preparing myself to come to the ring in the best shape possible. I’ve watched Casimero before and I know the way he fights so that’s why we’ve been training hard and doing everything right so we can bring the victory back home to Ghana.

“This is my dream. This is what I’ve been looking for because I know he’s a good boxer. I’m doing this for me and my family, my daughter and my son. I’ve been trying for a long time. I’m hungry for this. People will see good boxing and I’m confident that I’ll bring the title back to Ghana. My goal is to be one of the best boxers from Ghana.

“The people who think I don’t have a chance are not in my shoes. I know he’s a good boxer but this is what I’ve been doing since my childhood. Whatever anybody else thinks, I’m the one in the ring, so nobody else’s thoughts really matter. I know this won’t be an easy fight for me, but it’s what I’ve always wanted.

“I was so happy when I got the call for this fight, it’s like a dream. I’m fighting somebody who is a world champion, so I have to be happy. You have to fight the best to be the best. That’s why I’m so excited for this opportunity.”

RONNIE SHIELDS, Charlo’s Trainer:

“Jermall trains very hard. It’s going to be a great fight. Sergiy is a really good fighter, and I can’t take anything from him. We know he has an extensive amateur career and a pretty good pro career. We’re expecting a really good fight.

“The thing about Jermall Charlo is, he’s always in the gym, training hard and looking to be the best he possibly can be. That’s all me or anyone else can ask for him.

“We’re looking to fight the best guys out there. Sergiy is one of the best. We didn’t have to fight Sergiy. He’s ranked number one, but he wasn’t the mandatory. Jermall wanted this fight. He said, give me Sergiy. He wanted to fight the best guy in the division.

“During training, we train for 12 rounds, because that’s what it calls for. We can’t train for less than that. We have a game plan that we work on every day. If the knockout comes, we’ll be happy. But we have no problems with a 12-round fight. Jermall has been there before and he’s come out victorious.”

ANDRE ROZIER, Dereveyanchenko’s Trainer:

“It’s been tough getting ready for fights because our gym has been closed until recently, but we’ve made it work during that time. Sergiy is a consummate professional and he’s ready to turn it up. He’s going to be ready for an exciting fight on September 26.

“Jermall has done a fantastic job as a world champion in two weight classes. He’s growing as an individual and I appreciate that. But Sergiy works so hard. He’s a special individual. It’s going to be an incredible fight, but I expect Sergiy to be the victor.

“We worked hard on Sergiy’s capabilities and technique. we have a serious opponent in front of us. We’re going to train to be ready for a 15-round fight, so that we can rise to the occasion. There are going to be explosive bombs. May the best man win, but we’re planning to be the best man.

“I’m looking forward to the competition. But these fighters are also going to provide great entertainment. You can hear that these guys are ready to show the world what they’re all about.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.:

“This truly is a one of a kind pay-per-view doubleheader. Certainly, in my career here at SHOWTIME and during my lifetime as a boxing fan, I don’t remember any pay-per-view event like this – six fights, five of which are world title fights, all on one night for one price. It’s interesting that the four undercard matchups across the two shows feature some of the best talent in the 118 and 122-pound divisions. We have an excellent bantamweight world championship fight for the WBO title in Casimero vs. Micah and we have a super bantamweight title fight with Brandon Figueroa taking on Damien Vazquez. And in my opinion, the Jermall Charlo vs. Sergiy Derevyanchenko matchup is a matchup of the top two boxers currently fighting in the middleweight division. It’s a matchup that doesn’t need hyperbole or exaggeration or hype – simply put, it’s the best fight you can currently make in the middleweight division.

“One of the reasons that boxing fans love the sport is because boxing is often described as a metaphor for life – we’re all fighting for something. We all have a struggle. For Jermall and Sergiy, a win on September 26 would be the crowning achievement in their careers, an achievement that they’ve literally been fighting for their entire careers.”

BOXING RETURNS TO SHOWTIME® PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

NEW YORK – July 22, 2020 – SHOWTIME Sports^® and Premier Boxing Champions unveiled a nine-event television lineup for the remainder of 2020 in a virtual press conference today. The schedule is the largest collection of world championship boxing announced since the COVID-19 pandemic forced a stoppage of the sport.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® host Brian Custer introduced the schedule comprising of 22 critical matchups, beginning on August 1, featuring 18 undefeated fighters, nine world champions and eight world championship fights including one world title unification bout. The robust rollout of fights over the next five months includes two unique pay-per-view events involving some of boxing’s biggest names – Gervonta Davis, Leo Santa Cruz, Jermall Charlo, Jermell Charlo and David Benavidez.

Each live telecast will be presented without fans in attendance from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. Included in the schedule are four world title eliminators, three interim title fights and 13 bouts in all pitting top-10 ranked fighters.

Custer was joined by Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc., to preview the robust schedule spanning five months as well as world champions the Charlos, Benavidez and undefeated prospects Stephen Fulton Jr. and Angelo Leo to discuss their respective bouts.

Below are highlights of what Espinoza and the fighters had to say:

STEPHEN ESPINOZA

“We’re thrilled to announce what we believe is the strongest and most comprehensive schedule in all of boxing. Meaningful fights, competitive matchups. This is what boxing fans have been waiting for ever since the sport shut down in March. Between that March date, our last event on ShoBox, and August 1 will be 141 days that we’ve been down. Like everyone else, we’ve spent a tremendous amount of time coming up with protocols – but also a tremendous amount of time coming up with this schedule. From highly regarded prospects to emerging stars and big-time champions, we put them all in tough matchups. This lineup really delivers on our promise to boxing fans with the biggest fights, the most exciting fights, and the highest quality presentation in the sport. We’re doing nine telecasts with what are unquestionably the most significant fights in the sport since boxing has restarted.

“This is a really high-quality schedule with five months of meaningful fights, competitive fights and fights that are really going to determine champions and challengers for the foreseeable future.

“We weren’t going to come back just for the sake of coming back. We wanted to come back at a high level with meaningful fights – with fights which would remind the public why they’re excited about the sport of boxing. So, we put together a schedule week after week of competitive fights, with big names, with meaningful fights. Before we know it, this sport is going to be back where it should be in terms of momentum and positive energy.”

JERMALL CHARLO

“We will show everyone on September 26 that we’re the future of boxing. We’re going to let everyone in the world see the great things that me and my twin brother have done for the sport.

“Of course, the pandemic made us separate a lot of things in our routine and do things slightly differently. But I also can work out here at home so it hasn’t been too tough for me to stay sharp.

“Every fight is tough and I’m coming in prepared like always. Derevyanchenko is a highly rated fighter and we’re both going to go in there to get the job done.

“We haven’t decided who’s going to fight first, but we’re just so excited to be headlining these separate PPV cards. Me and my twin brother have something big in store for everyone on September 26.

“We just stay in shape. We’re always training and we’re always ready. This is a time in life where everyone had to go through the same thing. It was just a matter of time to get back to boxing.

“It is what it is not having fans in the stands. There’s not much we can do about it. We’re back and we’re going to enjoy it.

“I didn’t think Derevyanchenko won the fight against Golovkin, but he definitely made it a lot closer than people expected. I didn’t think people knew about his style and what he brings to the ring. It was close, but I didn’t think he won the fight.

“This win lets people know that I’m ready for the biggest fights against the other middleweight champions. Derevyanchenko has been in with tough competition, but he’s come up short. I know that people will have questions no matter what happens, but that’s just part of boxing. I’m ready to fight.

“It would definitely deliver a statement to the boxing world if I knock him out. The power is for real and I can get in there and hurt just about anybody.

“I feel like we’re going to meet in the middle of the ring and let our hands go. May the best man win. My game plan is going to be to shut his game plan down. We’ll see on fight night.”

ESPINOZA

“Jermall and Jermell have always said they want to do big events, historical events, unprecedented events that are unlike any other and that’s what this is. You would have to go back to those marathon Don King pay-per-views of the 80’s where you would have this many title fights on one card and even on those fights 30 or 40 years ago, you didn’t see the array of talent that we’re getting on September 26. Four world title fights, a unification fight, Jermell, Jermall taking arguably the toughest fights of their careers on the biggest stage. It is sort of the crown jewel in the schedule right now.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“This opportunity is finally here and I’m happy that me and my brother have this day to show how much we put into the sport. Now is our time to be PPV stars.

“I’ve been boxing for so long and it’s been my dream to win multiple belts, you can expect me to get that win. I’m going to dominate. I don’t want to leave this up to the judges. I’m going to dominate or win by knockout. That’s how I do it.

“People will be saying that ‘the Charlos are boxing’ after September 26. They’ll have to put us on the pound-for-pound lists after our performances.

“What matters the most is having this platform and putting on a great performance September 26. We know what we have to do.

“Being well-rested is important. Our bodies are in a great position and now it’s about getting better and working on things we need to work on. Boxing is a year-round sport, so we always stay in shape.

“Rosario is just another fighter with two arms, two legs and a mind. I’m going to do what I do and be destructive. My job is to take his titles and that’s what I’m planning to do.

“We always fought on the same cards growing up. It gives us energy and helps us be at our best. At the end of the day, we’re going to be ready to fight no matter what.

“When you’re really focused on the fight you’re zoned in and not even hearing the crowd. It’s not going to be a factor for us.

“If Rosario can’t take the power, we can fight all twelve. I can take a punch, but we don’t know if he can take a Jermell Charlo punch. We’re going for knockouts. I like to set it up and deliver it within the 12 rounds.”

ESPINOZA

“We’re thrilled to have David (Benavidez) back on SHOWTIME. He’s one of the most exciting young fighters in boxing. Young, exciting, charismatic, someone that if you haven’t seen fight, you’re in for a treat. Again, on this particular card, we can’t just focus on the main event because there’s two really compelling co-features. Speaking of somebody who’s exciting to watch, “Rollie” Romero clearly fits that bill. If you haven’t seen him, make sure to tune in. He is one of the most exciting young fighters as well. In the opening bout, two high quality heavyweights will match up. In this case, two heavyweights who both suffered from and eventually recovered from COVID. Thankfully, they’ve recovered, but those are three intriguing fights headed by David Benavidez’s return to SHOWTIME.”

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I’m very excited to come back. We’ve been out of the ring for almost a year.

“It was a little difficult getting this camp started because – Seattle was the epicenter of the pandemic. So, the number one key was to stay home, stay safe, and train at the right times. Now that we have the fight in August, we’ve brought a couple guys from different cities and everyone has been tested and everything has been good. I’m in my dad’s gym, so we can train whenever we want. We’ve been having a great training camp so far and now it’s just getting to the date smoothly.

“That’s very unfortunate right now (not to have fans in attendance), but I think what matters most is the safety and protection of the people. It’s going to be the same thing, like the Charlo’s said, you kind of get tunnel vision when you’re in the ring. My main goal right now is to give the fans at home the best possible fight I can possibly give them. (Roamer Alexis) Angulo has a nice record, and he has a lot of knockouts. I have a lot of knockouts, so it’s going to be fireworks all night.

“I’m expecting him to come forward, this is his second world title fight. I think he’s here to make a statement and I know he’s taking this fight very seriously. I want these tough fights. I want these brawls. I want these barn burners. You don’t want to blink because this fight is going to end in a knockout.

“My main goal is to get to Caleb Plant. That’s the fight I want the most, that’s the fight I feel the fans want the most. Since we’re in the same promotion company that’s fairly easy. I was hoping to get that fight by the end of this year but the pandemic kind of messed up a lot of things. I’m not looking past Angulo — he looks like a great fighter and he looks like a strong fighter. I want to get past this fight and then hopefully by the beginning of next year we can get to Caleb Plant.

(On a potential move to Light Heavyweight)

“I think so, but as of right now there are a lot of great fights at 168. There’s Caleb Plant, there’s Callum Smith, there’s Canelo, there’s Billy Joe Saunders. There are so many great fighters at 168 and there are a lot of great fights to be made. I’m going to be here until I make all of those fights. I have a long time left in this boxing game. I still have about 10 or 13 years in this boxing game left, so I don’t have to move up too quick. As soon as I get all of these fights and all of the belts I want to get at 168, then it’s time to move up to 175 – but I’m staying at Super Middleweight right now for a while.”

ESPINOZA

“What strikes me about the August 1 card isn’t just the quality at the top of the card with two young, emerging guys fighting for a world title. On this one card, we have five undefeated fighters and one fighter with just one loss. And the one fighter with the loss is trying to avenge that in a rematch on this particular card. This is a remarkably competitive, high-quality card top to bottom. It’s not just Fulton-Leo – although that one is a fight fan’s fight – each of these three fights is meaningful an among top-tier guys and rising stars. They are the kind of fights that sort out future champions from the guys who came close. This card may quietly be the most consistent card from top to bottom on the whole schedule.”

STEPHEN FULTON JR.

“It would mean everything to me (to be the only current world champion from Philadelphia). I feel like I always hold Philly on my back, no matter what, and that mindset would not change even if there were five champions from Philly. I am coming to fight.”

“You should expect a good fight. I have been rocked before, but look where I’m at, still standing. I’m just excited overall for every aspect in how he fights. I am excited to be in the ring with him and have the opportunity to display my skills.”

“I am going to beat him because he hasn’t been tested. No one he fought has brought any competition to him. I am going to beat him because I have been tested, I have taken those punches and showed I can get up. Also, my overall skills are just better than his.

“I am always looking to mental adjustments leading up to the fight, and during the fight. I plan to look at this like sparring. When you are sparring, no one is there. I plan to have that same energy, but just a little more intense.

“Personally, I just want to beat him. After that, we can talk about what happens in the future. Honestly, I am just worried about this guy. I am not even thinking about anyone else. That being said, I feel like I am the best in this division. I prove myself over and over again, and that is what I am going to continue to do. I want to be the first undisputed 122-pound champion in the world.”

ANGELO LEO

“It would mean the world to me (to be the first champion from Albuquerque since the late great Johnny Tapia). He was a fighter I look up to, and to become a champion out of Albuquerque says a lot about the city, and a lot about myself. The goal is to become champion, and to represent Albuquerque in the process.

“At the end of the day it is a fight. He can boast about his resume all he wants. We are both top five in the world, we are both undefeated, so it does not really matter once we get in there. He has beaten undefeated fighters, but if you look at those fights, he has been rocked and dropped in all of them. He is not untouchable.

“I am going to get the victory, of course. Whether it goes 12 rounds or not, I am going in there to get that title.

“I am hungrier than him. I have seen what he has, and I know I can break him down. He doesn’t have the will and the heart like I do. On top of that, I have a lot of skill and experience. He is going to see why I am undefeated.

“I definitely feel I’m ready for championship fights. I thought I was ready for a world title three years ago. After I stopped Cesar Juarez in spectacular fashion, I knew I was ready for a world title.

“The 122-pound division is loaded, filled with great talent. This just makes for exciting fights. This is what boxing fans want, and this is what we are going to give them. To be the best you need to beat the best, and if you do not think that way you should not be in the sport. I am in this sport to be the best.”

SHOWTIME SPORTS® AND PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS RETURN TO THE RING WITH ROBUST LIVE BOXING SCHEDULE SPANNING FIVE MONTHS

NEW YORK – July 22, 2020 – SHOWTIME Sports and Premier Boxing Champions announced today a lineup of nine live boxing events featuring 18 undefeated fighters, nine world champions, and eight world championship fights including one world title unification bout. The schedule comprises 22 critical matchups from bantamweight to heavyweight and features some of the biggest stars in the sport today – Gervonta Davis, Leo Santa Cruz, Jermall Charlo, Jermell Charlo, David Benavidez and more. It is the largest collection of world championship boxing announced since the COVID-19 pandemic forced a stoppage of the sport.

The SHOWTIME boxing schedule begins on Saturday, August 1 and runs through the end of 2020. Initially, each live telecast will be presented without fans in attendance from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. Included in the schedule are four world title eliminators, three interim title fights and 13 bouts in all pitting top-10 ranked fighters.

There are two SHOWTIME PPV^® events in the lineup presented by Premier Boxing Champions. The first in late September is a pay-per-view doubleheader featuring four world title bouts in back-to-back three-fight events on the same night all for one price. Doubleheaders are common in the NFL, NBA and MLB. There hasn’t ever been a boxing PPV doubleheader – until now. The second blockbuster PPV event in October is a unique clash with the winner earning world titles in two weight classes.

“We are proud to announce the strongest and most comprehensive schedule of fights in all of boxing,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “Each bout on this schedule, our largest schedule announcement since 2018, carries high stakes and significant implications. From highly regarded prospects to emerging stars to established champions – all in tough matchups – this lineup delivers on our promise to provide boxing fans with the best talent, the most exciting fights and the highest quality presentation in the sport. We are thrilled to return to live boxing with this star-studded schedule of exciting, meaningful fights.”

Philadelphia’s 122-pound rising star Stephen Fulton Jr. will headline SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® on August 1 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) against talented, fellow undefeated contender Angelo Leo of the Mayweather stable in a marquee 12-round matchup for the vacant WBO junior featherweight world title. The Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions. This will mark the first live boxing event on SHOWTIME since ShoBox: The New Generation on March 13 when the network presented what was to be the last nationally televised professional sporting event in the U.S. for several weeks.

“We couldn’t be more excited to be finally getting back to boxing,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Everyone has been patiently waiting and the series of fights that we will collectively put on over the next few months will be great for boxing and the sports world in general. We’re kicking things off August 1 with a world title opportunity for our rising contender Angelo Leo who has been consistently grinding and taking care of business. He’s facing another young and focused undefeated fighter and only one of them can be crowned champion. Both guys are confident that the title belongs to them, which is going to make for a great fight from the first bell.”

“I have been really impressed with both Fulton and Leo,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Fulton’s resume includes victories over eight undefeated fighters. Angelo Leo will be the third straight unbeaten fighter he’s faced. Leo has passed every test he’s had with victories against some of the toughest fighters in the division. The winner of this match will be soaring to new heights in the division.”

“This is my time. I’ve prepared for this my whole life,” said Fulton. “He will be a world champion one day, but not this time.”

“I’m excited to get back in the ring and to continue where I left off,” said Leo. “It’s an honor to be the main event on SHOWTIME and to be fighting for the WBO belt.”

The fight-by-fight schedule follows:

August 1

Main Event: Stephen Fulton Jr. (18-0, 8 KOs) vs. Angelo Leo (19-0, 9 KOs) – Vacant WBO Junior Featherweight World Championship

Co-Feature: Tramaine Williams (19-0, 6 KOs) vs. Ra’eese Aleem (16-0, 10 KOs) – Super Bantamweight Title Eliminator

Co-Feature: Joe George (10-0, 6 KOs) vs. Marcos Escudero (10-1, 9 KOs) II – Light Heavyweight Bout

About: Fellow Americans and undefeated fighters Fulton and Leo are legitimate top-10 junior featherweight contenders who will meet for the vacant WBO 122-pound world title. A southpaw from New Haven, Conn., Williams will clash with Las Vegas-based Aleem in an intriguing, 50-50 matchup between talented, undefeated prospects. Managed by All-Pro lineman Trent Williams, Houston’s George upset Escudero in an exciting ShoBox affair last November.

August 15

Main Event: David Benavidez (22-0, 19 KOs) vs. Roamer Alexis Angulo (26-1, 22 KOs) – WBC Super Middleweight World Championship

Co-Feature: Rolando Romero (11-0, 10 KOs) vs. Jackson Marinez (19-0, 7 KOs) – WBA Lightweight Interim Title

Co-Feature: Otto Wallin (20-1, 13 KOs) vs. Travis Kauffman (32-3, 23 KOs) – Heavyweight Bout

About: Undefeated Benavidez, 23, kicks off his second reign as WBC Super Middleweight Champion. In 2017, he became the youngest 168-pound champion in boxing history by defeating Ronald Gavril on SHOWTIME at just 20 years old. Angulo is coming off an upset win over heavily hyped and then unbeaten prospect Anthony Sims Jr. The power-punching “Rolly” Romero of the Mayweather stable, who has scored five first- or second-round stoppages in his last six fights, is an undefeated ShoBox alum ranked No. 10 by the WBA while Marinez is ranked No. 6. Wallin vs. Kauffman is an intriguing heavyweight matchup between the Swedish southpaw and the veteran Kauffman. Both fighters have survived bouts with the COVID-19 virus, made full recoveries and are anxious to get back in the ring. The winner will undoubtedly receive another big fight. The loser will go to the back of the line in the busy heavyweight division. This Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing. The Romero vs. Marinez bout is co-promoted by Mayweather Promotions.

September 19

Main Event: Erickson Lubin (22-1, 16 KOs) vs. Terrell Gausha (21-1-1, 10 KOs) – WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator Bout

Co-Feature: Tugstsogt Nyambayar (11-1, 9 KOs) vs. Eduardo Ramirez (23-2-3, 10 KOs) – WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator Bout

Co-Feature: Jaron Ennis (25-0, 23 KOs) vs. TBA – Welterweight Bout

About: Lubin, already a veteran at just 24 years old, has excelled since his shocking first-round loss to Jermell Charlo three years ago. Gausha is a former U.S. Olympian with just one loss. Both men are poised and hungry for a signature win and the opportunity to fight for a unified 154-pound title, which will be on the line the following week. Nyambayar and Ramirez are legitimate top-10 contenders. Nyambayar faced Gary Russell Jr. in February on SHOWTIME in the last SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast before the COVID-19 shutdown. Ramirez, of Mexico, is coming off a stoppage of previously unbeaten Leduan Barthelemy. A graduate of the popular ShoBox: The New Generation series, Philadelphia native Ennis has fought twice on ShoBox and twice on SHOWTIME BOXING: Special Edition cards. Ennis is a former National Golden Gloves Champion ranked No. 12 by the WBO and No. 14 by the IBF. This Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by TGB Promotions and the Ennis bout is in association with D & D Boxing.

September 26 – SHOWTIME/Premier Boxing Champions PPV Doubleheader

In One of the Main Events: Jermall Charlo (30-0, 22 KOs) vs. Sergiy Derevyanchenko (13-2, 10 KOs) – WBC Middleweight World Championship

Co-Feature: Brandon Figueroa (20-0-1, 15 KOs) vs. Damien Vasquez (15-1-1, 7 KOs) – WBA Super Bantamweight World Championship

Co-Feature: Diego Magdaleno (32-3, 13 KOs) vs. Isaac Cruz (19-1-1, 14 KOs) – IBF Lightweight Title Eliminator Bout

About: Houston’s Charlo will defend his title against WBC No.-1 ranked Ukrainian Derevyanchenko in one of the main events of this pay-per-view twin bill that boasts four world title fights. Charlo has held the WBC middleweight title since 2019 and reigned as the IBF junior middleweight champion from 2015 to ‘17. Charlo holds wins at 154 pounds against championship-level fighters including Cornelius Bundrage, Austin Trout and Julian Williams. Derevyanchenko has twice challenged for the IBF middleweight title in 2018 and ‘19, losing only to top-level opponents Daniel Jacobs and Gennadiy Golovkin. The 23-year-old Figueroa claimed the interim WBA 122-pound title with an eighth-round stoppage of Yonfrez Parejo last April, before successfully defending the title with a homecoming KO of Javier Chacon in Edinburg, Texas. After being upgraded to the “regular” titlist, Figueroa retained his belt after a 12-round draw against Julio Ceja last November. The southpaw Vasquez is coming off a stoppage win over Alejandro Moreno in February of 2020. Magdaleno vs. Cruz is an IBF title eliminator matchup of ShoBox alums currently ranked 10^th and sixth, respectively.

The Other Main Event: Jermell Charlo (33-1, 17 KOs) vs. Jeison Rosario (20-1-1, 14 KOs) – WBC, WBA and IBF 154-Pound Unification Bout

Co-Feature: Mario Barrios (25-0, 16 KOs) vs. Ryan Karl (18-2, 11 KOs) – WBA Super Lightweight World Championship

Co-Feature: Daniel Roman (26-3-1, 10 KOs) vs. TBA – Super Bantamweight Bout

About: In the other main event of this two-part, six-fight pay-per-view telecast, Jermell Charlo will take on Rosario in just the eighth world title unification fight in the 154-pound division’s history. It is also just the second fight with three super welterweight world title belts up for grabs. In January, Rosario upset Julian Williams to win the WBA and IBF titles. Last December, Charlo regained the title by stopping Tony Harrison. At stake is supremacy in a talent-rich division. The 25-year-old Barrios from San Antonio has held the WBA (regular) super lightweight title since September of 2019. His opponent Karl hails from Houston and is ranked No. 9 by the WBA. A regular sparring partner of Erislandy Lara and Jermell Charlo, Karl is trained by Ronnie Shields. Roman is a former unified super bantamweight champion, having held the WBA (Super) and IBF titles from 2019 to January 2020. Roman’s 19-bout winning streak was snapped in January in a split-decision loss to Murodjon Akhmadaliev. Ranked in the top five by all four sanctioning bodies, Roman previously held the WBA title from 2017 to 2019. This unique PPV doubleheader is presented by Premier Boxing Champions and promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions. The Jermell Charlo-Jeison Rosario match is co-promoted with Sampson Boxing.

October 10

Main Event: Sergey Lipinets (16-1, 12 KOs) vs. Kudratillo Abdukakhorov (15-0, 8 KOs) – IBF Welterweight Interim Title

Co-Feature: Xavier Martinez (15-0, 11 KOs) vs. Claudio Marrero (24-4, 17 KOs) – Super Featherweight Bout

Co-Feature: Malik Hawkins (18-0, 11 KOs) vs. Subriel Matias (15-1, 15 KOs) – Super Lightweight Bout

About: The 31-year-old Lipinets has won three significant fights in a row since his lone loss to Mikey Garcia, including a dominant stoppage that sent former word titlist Lamont Peterson into retirement. Uzbekistan’s Abdukakhorov is coming off his biggest win to date over former world titlist Luis Collazo and is yet to taste defeat since turning professional in 2015. With Abdukakhorov ranked No. 1 by the IBF and Lipinets ranked No. 3, the winner will be in prime position to challenge the unified 147-pound world champion Errol Spence Jr. Sacramento’s Martinez of the Mayweather stable is an exciting prospect who thrilled ShoBox viewers when he scored one of the quickest knockouts in the history of the series last November, while Marrero is a grizzled veteran who held the WBA interim featherweight title in 2017. Hawkins of the Mayweather stable is trained by Calvin Ford and a teammate of two-division world champion Gervonta Davis. Every one of Matias’ 15 career victories as a pro has come by way of knockout, with his only setback a unanimous-decision loss to Petros Ananyan back in February. This Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by TGB Promotions, Top Rank, Inc. and Mayweather Promotions.

October 24 – SHOWTIME/Premier Boxing Champions PPV

Main Event: Gervonta Davis (23-0, 22 KOs) vs. Leo Santa Cruz (37-1-1, 19 KOs) – WBA Super Featherweight World Championship/WBA Lightweight World Championship

About: This blockbuster main event will be contested at the super featherweight limit of 130 pounds. The winner of the match, however, will be in the unique position to earn world championships at 130 and 135 pounds on the same night.Two crowd favorites with massive followings will meet with Santa Cruz’s newly won WBA (Super) 130-pound world title on the line. The unbeaten “Tank” Davis is a two-division world champion and reigning WBA lightweight titlist at the age of 25. He emerged as a bona fide star in 2019 with sold-out main event bouts in Baltimore and Atlanta. “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz is a four-division world champion who avenged his only professional loss to Carl Frampton. The stage is set for one of the best matchups that can be made in all of boxing. Both men are all-action fighters. Davis boasts a knockout percentage of .957 while Santa Cruz is one of the busiest punchers in the sport. The winner of this fight will rightfully earn a top-10 spot on the coveted pound-for-pound list. This Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions, GTD Promotions and Santa Cruz Boxing Club.

November 28

Main Event: Chris Colbert (14-0, 5 KOs) vs. Jaime Arboleda (16-1, 13 KOs) – WBA Super Featherweight Interim Title

Co-Feature: Richardson Hitchins (11-0, 5 KOs) vs. Argenis Mendez (25-5-3, 12 KOs) – Super Lightweight Bout

Co-Feature: TBA

About: The WBA interim super featherweight champion Colbert has fought five times in the past 20 months. Arboleda of Panama earned a split-decision win over veteran Jayson Velez in a WBA junior lightweight eliminator in February. New York City’s Hitchins of the Mayweather stable represented his parents’ home country of Haiti in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games and Mendez is a former IBF Super Featherweight champion from the Dominican Republic. This Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing. The Hitchins vs. Mendez bout is co-promoted by Mayweather Promotions.

December 12

Main Event: Nordine Oubaali (17-0, 12 KOs) vs. Nonito Donaire (40-6, 26 KOs) – WBC Bantamweight World Championship

Co-Feature: TBA

About: France’s Oubaali will be defending the WBC bantamweight world title for the third time. Donaire is the No. 1-ranked contender and fighting for his eighth world championship. A four-division titlist and former pound-for-pound mainstay, Donaire fought brilliantly in what many picked as 2019’s Fight of the Year, a decision loss to Naoya Inoue. At age 37, Donaire is attempting to defy the belief that the smaller the fighter, the earlier the prime. The Premier Boxing Champions event is promoted by TGB Promotions.

LIVE VIDEO: CHARLO – HOGAN POST FIGHT PRESS CONFERENCE

Charlo Retains Title, Drops Hogan Twice, Stops Him In 7

BROOKLYN, NY–Jermall “Hit Man” Charlo (30-0, 22KO) recorded a seventh round stoppage over Dennis “Hurricane” Hogan (28-3-1, 7KO) to retain his WBC World Middleweight Title in a Showtime main event from the Barclays Center.

It was a one sided affair that saw the bigger Charlo have his way with the smaller-framed Hogan, who moved up a weight class to take this fight.

Houston’s Charlo, 29, asserted himself early, spraying jabs and letting his right hand fly so Hogan could taste his power. Ultimately, though, it would be the left hook that proved to be the punch that the Irish-born Aussie, Hogan, should have feared most.

Hogan’s best punch came early in the third with a big right that momentarily halted Charlo’s forward momentum. But the bigger man quickly re-assumed his position as the bigger fighter and continued to stalk his smaller foe.

In the fourth, Charlo upped the tempo, taking the fight to the 34 year-old Hogan. During an exchange early in the round, Charlo unleashed a left hook/uppercut that generated from his hip that caught Hogan flush on the chin that sent the challenger tumbling to the mat where he performed a backwards somersault before coming to a stop on his gloved hands and knees. A buzzed Hogan w beat referee Charlie Fitch’s ensuing ten-count, and with a mix of grit and skill, was able to navigate his way through the remainder of the round.

Less than three rounds later, Charlo, who is trained by Ronnie Shields, again landed a huge left hook that sent Hogan crashing back to the ropes and ultimately, canvas. A woozy Hogan again beat Fitch’s ten count, but was clearly dazed, prompting Fitch to stop the contest at the :28 second mark of round seven.

It was the first time in his career that the Glen Rushton-trained Hogan was stopped inside the distance and the first win via stoppage for Charlo since he stopping Hugo Centeno Jr. at the Barclays Center in April 2018.

Unfortunately for Hogan, tonight marks the third time Hogan unsuccessfully challenged for a world title. Most recently, he found himself on the wrong end of a controversial majority decision against WBO World Junior Middleweight champion Jamie Mungia in Mexico in April, and he also dropped a 2015 unanimous decision to German Jack Culcay in a bout for an interim WBA World Junior Middleweight title.

“I made it through 2019 and we’re going to 2020 with 20/20 vision,” said Charlo. “Shout out to Dennis Hogan for giving me real competition and for coming up to fight me.”

He added, “The middleweight division is wide open. I’m the WBC Champion. I’m going to enjoy this and spend time with my team. I’m here to fight whoever. You have to make the right decisions and do it at the right time. That’s what it’s all about.”

A disappointed Hogan also spoke post-fight, saying, “”I didn’t see the punch coming on the second knockdown. I was trying to keep boxing him but then all of a sudden I was on the ground and the fight was over.” He continued, “I wanted to keep going but the decision was fair enough by the referee.”

Eubank Awarded WBA Interim Middleweight Title After Korobov Shoulder Injury

In his highly anticipated US debut, the United Kingdom’s Chris Eubank, Jr. (29-2, 22KO) was awarded the WBA World Interim Middleweight Title when Matvey Korobov (28-3-1, 14KO) was unable to continue fighting after suffering a left shoulder injury early in the second round.

Korobov, 36, dominated the first round as he continually landed straight lefts that were sent as return-fire each time Eubank Jr. flailed a half-committed jab his way.

In the opening moments of the second, the southpaw Korobov picked up where he left off and again scored with straight lefts. But it all came to a sudden halt just :34 seconds into the round when the Russian-born Florida fighter grimaced in pain, grabbed his left shoulder and asked referee Steve Willis to pause the contest. Willis walked Korobov back to his corner where a timeout was issued and New York State Athletic Commission doctors tended to Korobov. After about a minute or so of inspection, NYSAC Chief Medical Officer Nitin Sethi informed Willis that Korobov could no longer continue. On paper, the result adds another TKO win to Eubank, Jr.’s record and a loss to Korobov’s.

It’s the third straight win for the 30 year-old Eubank, Jr., who moved down a weight class and was fighting at middleweight for the first time in roughly three years.

“I felt like I was about to get my swagger on,” Eubank, Jr. said. “He just turned around and stopped I was going to go jump on him. I guess something happened with his shoulder.”

Eubank Jr., who trains under the tutelage of Nate Vasquez at the Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas, added, “I’m the winner, I’m going to move forward and challenge for these belts. This wasn’t my dream. My dream was to come here to America and make a statement.”

Iwasa Wins WBA Featherweight Title, Stops Tapales In 11

Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa (27-3, 17KO) is a world champion once again as scored an impressive eleventh round TKO over Filipino Marlon “Maranding Nightmare” Tapales (33-3, 16KO) to claim the vacant WBA interim featherweight title.

The end came definitively and seemingly out of nowhere roughly a third of the way through the eleventh when Iwasa fired a straight left over a lazy Tapales jab that sent Tapales back to the mat. He was on his feet before referee Shada Murdaugh reached ten, but failed to follow his commands, forcing Murdaugh to wave the bout off at the 1:09 mark of round eleven.

In the third round, with action in full swing, both southpaws simultaneously stepped forward to throw lefts, and while both landed, a clash of heads briefly dropped the former world bantamweight champion Tapales to a knee. Murdaugh missed the headbutt and incorrectly scored a knockdown for Iwasa.

Throughout the contest, the lengthier Iwasa did well to pepper Tapales from the outside and land big when the Filipino rushed inside, often attempting to land looping overhand lefts or sweeping body shots.

By the seventh round, Tapales’ face began to tell the tale of the fight as it began to assume a reddish hue, while a mouse formed under his right eye.

The 27 year-old Filipino mounted a final surge early in the eighth, as he rocked Iwasa with a huge right hand. By the time the round commenced, however, Iwasa was back in the driver’s seat.

It was the second time in Tapales’ career he was stopped inside the distance. The other time came a decade ago — in 2009 — when he was stopped by fellow Filipino Brix Ray.

For the 29 year-old Iwasa, tonight marked his second career fight in the US and second win inside the distance. He retired Cesar Juarez in Los Angeles in February.

Ronald Ellis Earns Hard Fought MD Over Immanuel Aleem

Ronald Ellis (17-1-2, 11KO) rebounded from his lone career defeat, scoring a ten round majority decision (95-95, 98-92, 97-93) over fellow super middleweight Immanuwel “The Chosen One” Aleem (18-2-2, 11KO).

It was a back and forth affair in which both fighters were willing to eat a shot to land one of their own. Aleem, 26, tried to bring the fight to Ellis, but Ellis popped a sharp jab all fight long that helped keep his smaller opponent at safe distance. When Aleem did make his way inside Ellis’ reach, the Massachusetts native made sure to make Aleem pay.

While most rounds were close and competitive, Ellis continually landed the cleaner, crisper, more effective shots.

It was a nice bounce back fight for Ellis, who dropped a close split decision loss to DeAndre Ware in February.

Prior to tonight, Aleem’s last fight was a draw against Matvey Korobov in May. His only other loss came via KO courtesy of Hugo Centeno Jr.

Hawton Overcomes Knockdown To UD Villalobos, Win WBC Atomweight Title

In an all action affair, Australia’s Louisa “Bang Bang Lulu” Hawton (10-2, 5KO) overcame a sixth round knockdown to win the vacant WBC interim World Female Atomweight Title, scoring a ten round unanimous decision (95-94×3) over familiar foe Lorraine Villalobos (4-3, 2KO). The two previously met last December when Hawton retired Villalobos in five.

The matchup presented stylistic contrasts, as the 34 year-old Hawton is a pedal-to-the-metal – let your hands fly type of a fighter, while Villalobos is comfortable fighting off her back look, constantly looking to time Hawton and use her aggression against her.

In the early rounds, Hawton’s pressure style seemed to give Villalobos some problems. Although both fighters had their share of offensive success, it seemed Hawton’s relentlessness was wearing on Villalobos.

After nonstop back-and-forth action, the 23 year-old Villalobos broke through late in the sixth she uncorked a wicked left hook that landed square on Hawton’s chin, sending her to the canvas. A foggy Hawton was able to beat referee Sparkle Lee’s ten count just as the round came to an end.

Undeterred, Hawton returned to her high-octane offense the following round, but was peppered with more and more Villalobos shots.

Save for the sixth, all rounds were competitive and close and the judges scorecards reflect that, as all three shaded it to Hawton six rounds to four.

Heavyweight Steven Torres Dominates Daniel Felix Franco In Pro Debut

In his pro debut, heavyweight Steven Torres (1-0, 1KO) scored a first round stoppage, as he battered Mexico’s Daniel Felix Franco (2-3, 2KO) into submission.

Torres, a 6’7” Puerto Rico fighting out of Reading, PA, dropped Franco early with a short left that clipped the chin of Franco and planted him on the canvas. Moments later, Torres, who is trained by Anibal Adorno – father of prospects Joseph & Jeremy — continued to rain down punches on Franco until the big Mexican took a seat on the ropes, prompting the referee to jump in and stop the contest at the 2:09 mark of the first round.

Duke Micah Earns Eight Round UD Over Janiel Rivera

Undefeated Ghanaian Duke Micah (24-0, 20 KO) sent fellow bantamweight Janiel “Pototo” Rivera (18-6-3, 11KO) to the mat twice, en route to a wide eight round unanimous decision (79-72, 78-73, 77-74).

Micah started quick and before the first round commenced, had already sent his Puerto Rican counterpart to the mat courtesy of a straight right. The 28 year-old “Baby Faced Terminator”, continued to control the contest until midway through the third round when a Rivera right planted Micah on his backside. Just seconds later though, during an exchange of wild punches, Micah returned the favor, landing another straight right that exploded on Sanchez’s chin, sending him the Puerto Rican crashing to the canvas.

The two continued to exchange throughout the remainder of the contest, with Micah continually getting the better of Rivera. Credit, the 28 year-old “Pototo” — who has only been stopped once in his career — for taking everything Micah threw at him, remaining undeterred until the final bell.

In the second contest from New York, welterweights Amon Rashidi (7-1-1, 5KO) and Antonio Sanchez (6-8-3, 3KO) fought to a six round split draw. Judges scorecards read 59-55 for each fighter, along with a 57-57 card.

Rashidi, 27, was hoping to get back into the win column after suffering his first career defeat in September, but met a stubborn Sanchez who fought fire with fire.

For the 33 year-old Puerto Rican, Sanchez, tonight’s result snaps a three-fight losing streak. However, he remains winless on US soil (seven fights).

Arnold Gonzalez Easily Outpoints Gregory Young, Jr. In 4 Round Welterweight Scrap

New York City’s Arnold Gonzalez improved to 3-0, earning a four round unanimous decision (40-36×3) against fellow welterweight Gregory Young, Jr. (4-3, 1KO). Gonzalez, who is trained by the Wild Card Boxing Club’s Julian Chua, did well to consistently work past Young Jr.’s jab to land his punches.

Burley Brooks Decisions Nathan Sharp To Open BK Fight Card

In the opening fight of the evening from the Barclays Center, Texas super middleweight Burley Brooks upped his perfect record to 5-0, 4KO, scoring a six round unanimous decision (58-56×3) over Nathan Davis Sharp (4-2, 4KO). It was the first time that the 23 year-old Brooks, who is trained by Derrick James, has gone the distance.

LIVE FIGHTS: Charlo vs. Hogan: Undercard

FOLLOW CHARLO – HOGAN LIVE!!

Follow all the action Live as Jermall Charlo defends the WBC Middleweight title against Dennis Hogan. The action Kicks off at 7 PM ET with three world title bouts as Louisa Hawton & Lorraine Villalobos battle for the WBC Interim Atomweight Title…Marlon Taples and Ryosuke Iwasa fight foe the IBF Jr. Featherweight Title and Chris Eubank Jr. takes on Matt Korobov WBA Interim Middleweight Title.

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12-ROUNDS–WBC MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE–JERMALL CHARLO (29-0, 21 KOS) VS DENNIS HOGAN (28-2-1, 7 KOS)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
CHARLO*	9	10	10	10	10	10	KO						59
HOGAN	10	9	9	8	9	9							54

Round 1 Left hook from Hogan.Chopping right..double left..

Round 2 Hogan jabs to body.Hard Jab from Charlo..Right

Round 3 Left hook by Hogan..Left hook by Charlo..Jab from Hogan..Right to body from Charlo..Jab..head shots

Round 4 HUGE LEFT UPPERCUT AND DOWN GOES HOGAN…Big right..left to body.right uppercut..Big right..Chopping right

Round 5 Good left hook from Charlo..Hogan lands a right..left from Charlo..Flush right..Right

Round 6 Right from Hogan..jab to body from Charlo..Right uppercut..Nice right..Sharp Jab..

Round 7…BIG LEFT AND DOWN GOES HOGAN AND THE FIGHT IS OVER

12- ROUNDS–WBA INTERIM MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE–CHRIS EUBANK JR. (28-2, 21 KOS) VS MATT KOROBOV (28-2-1, 14 KOS)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
EUBANK*	9	TKO											9
KOROBOV	10												10

Round 1 Left from Korobov..Double left

Round 2 KOROBOV HURTS HIS SHOULDER..KOROBOV CANT CONTINUE

12 ROUNDS–IBF INTERIM JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE–MARLON TAPALES (33-2, 16 KOS) VS RYOUSUKE IWASA (26-3, 16 KOS)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
TAPALES	10	10	8	9	10	9	9	9	10	10			94
IWASA*	10	9	10	10	9	10	10	10	9	9	TKO		96

Round 1

Round 2 Jab from Iwasa..Sharp right and nice left from Tapales..Lead left..Sweeping left from Iwasa

Round 3 Both landing power shots…right from Tapales..LEFT AND DOWN GOES TAPALES..Left from Tapales..Jab..Brusing around left eye of Tapales

Round 4 Jab from Iwasa..Straight left..Combination..Combination..1-2..Sweeping right hook

Round 5 Left to body from Tapales..right hook to body..Lead uppercut..straight left..Straight left..left

Round 6 Tapales lands a solid left..1-2 from Iwasa…right hook..left uppercut..

Round 7 Tapales lands a right..Lead left..Left from Iwasa…body..1-2..Short right hook from Tapales..Good left

Round 8 Good right from Tapales..Right hook to body from Iwasa..3 punch combination..Iwasa backing up Tapales..Left hook to the body…Sweeping right hook from Tapales..

Round 9 Sweeping right hook from Iwasa..Chopping right from Tapales..Right uppercut..

Round 10 Right hook from Tapales…Swelling under left eye of Iwasa/.Triple right from Tapales

Round 11 Iwasa lands a left…BIG LEFT AND DOWN GOES TAPALES..TAPALES STUMBLES AND FIGHT IS OVER

10 Rounds–Super Middleweights–Immanuwel Aleem (18-1-2, 11 KOs) vs Ronald Ellis (16-1-2, 11 KOs)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
Aleem	10	9	9	9	9	9	9	9	9	10			92
Ellis	9	10	10	10	10	10	10	10	10	9			98

Round 1 Double Jab from Aleem..Jab
Round 2 Good right by Aleem..Good left from Ellis..Right to Body..Right
Round 3 Right from Ellis..Good right..Right..4 Punch combination
Round 4 Right from Ellis
Round 5 Right from Ellis..Good left hook from Aleem..1-2 from Ellis
Round 6 Ellis Body shot and right hand..left hook..left hook on the inside..Aleem coming back
Round 7 Ellis Jabbing
Round 8 Nice Right from Aleem..Right from Ellis..Right
Round 9 Combination from Ellis
Round 10 Body shot from Aleem..2 Good rights

95-95; 97-93; 98-92 ELLIS

10 Rounds–WBC Interim Atomweight Title–Louisa Hawton (9-2, 5 KOs) vs Lorraina Villalobos (4-2, 2 KOs)
ROUND	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10	11	12	TOTAL
Hawton	10	10	9	10	10	8	9	9	10	9			94
Villalobos	9	9	10	9	9	10	10	10	9	10			95

Round 1
Round 2
Round 3 Combination from Villalobos..Left hook to Body from Hawton..Right uppercut..Left hook and right and left hook from Villalobos
Round 4 Left hook from Villalobos..Right..2 rights from Hawton
Round 5 Left hook from Villalobos..Triple left hook to body from Hawton..Left hook and right cross..Big Right from Villalobos
round 6 2 lefts and right from Hawton..Left hook and uppercut..Left from Villalobos..Left hook…BIG LEFT AND DOWN GOES HAWTON
Round 7 Left hook from Villalobos..Hawton bleeding from the nose..Right from Villalobos
Round 8 Right from Hawton..Left hook..Hawton lands a hard right to the body
Round 9 Body work from Hawton
Round 10 Left hook/Right cross from Villalobos

95-94 on all cards for Hawton

VIDEO: JERMALL CHARLO FEATURE

JERMALL CHARLO VS. DENNIS HOGAN FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES AND COMMISSION OFFICIALS FOR MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP TOMORROW LIVE ON SHOWTIME® FROM BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

WBC Middleweight World Championship

Jermall Charlo – 159 ¾ lbs.

Dennis Hogan – 158 ½ lbs.

Referee: Charlie Fitch; Judges: Mark Lyson (U.K.), John McKaie (N.Y.), Don Trella (Conn.)

WBA Interim Middleweight World Championship

Chris Eubank Jr. – 159 ½ lbs.

Matt Korobov – 159 lbs.

Referee: Steve Willis; Judges: Julie Lederman (N.Y.), Kevin Morgan (N.Y); Tony Paolillo (N.Y.)

IBF Interim Junior Featherweight World Championship

Marlon Tapales – 121 ½ lbs.

Ryosuke Iwasa – 121 ½ lbs.

Referee: Shada Murdaugh; Judges: Frank Lombardi (Conn.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)

FLASH QUOTES:

JERMALL CHARLO

“I fight for my family. I fight for my life. He’s going to be fighting for his life tomorrow. It’s Lions Only forever!”

DENNIS HOGAN

“It’s all about me and my destiny. This is about me being world champion. The rest is all noise. I showed up. I’m here. I’m ready to go. Who cares what anyone else says? I’m here and I’m ready. Let’s do it!

“To win, I’ll just have to bring something that no one else has brought before, and that’s exactly what I intend to do. We will win.”

CHRIS EUBANK JR.

“I feel great at this weight. I was eating all throughout the night last night, I was sipping on water all day today. This is my natural weight. I’m not fighting a guy that’s 20 pounds heavier than me on the night, now I’m fighting a guy that’s my size and it’s going to show. I’m going to go out there and I’m going to stop this kid.

“I was just letting him know what’s coming. I’m not out here to play. This is my first fight in the U.S., my first fight in New York. It’s a dream come true. I’m going to come out here and make an explosive statement to the middleweight division. And then I’m coming for all the belts after that.”

MATT KOROBOV

“Yes, of course it’s added motivation that it feels like Eubank is looking past me. But the big motivation is that this is a title fight. I’m really happy to be here again and I’m ready to show and prove that I’m ready to be the next WBA Champion.”

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN Live Streaming Online – 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT

Super Middleweight Bout – 10-Rounds

Immanuwel Aleem – 163 ¾ lbs.

Ronald Ellis – 163 ½ lbs.

WBC Interim Atomweight Championship

Louisa Hawton – 101 ½ lbs.

Lorraine Villalobos – 100 ½ lbs.

#

ABOUT CHARLO VS. HOGAN

Charlo vs. Hogan will see WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo defend his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features middleweight star Chris Eubank, Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov squaring off for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title plus former world champions clash when the Philippines’ Marlon Tapales and Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa meet for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title.

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

LIVE VIDEO: CHARLO – HOGAN WEIGH IN