The Homecoming: Newark Native Shakur Stevenson to Defend Unified Junior Lightweight Title Against Robson Conceição September 23 at Prudential Center LIVE on ESPN

NEWARK, N.J. (July 25, 2022) — Brick City’s boxing superstar, Shakur Stevenson, is the junior lightweight king. He’ll soon return home to defend his throne.

Stevenson, the WBC, WBO and Ring Magazine champion, puts his hardware on the line against Brazilian standout Robson Conceição on Friday, Sept. 23, at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J. In the eight-round lightweight co-feature, Tokyo 2020 U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis returns against an opponent to be named.

Stevenson-Conceição and Davis’ bout will air live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ (simulcast) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $50 go on sale TODAY, July 25, at 2 p.m. ET and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

“The sensational Shakur Stevenson is a once in a generation boxing talent, and he’s back home in Newark as a world champion against a worthy contender in Robson Conceição,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “I also can’t wait to see young talents like Keyshawn Davis and Bruce Carrington perform on such a significant card.”

“Prudential Center is incredibly proud to partner once again with Top Rank and ESPN to host Newark’s own Shakur Stevenson in his homecoming bout, as he defends his junior lightweight world titles in this exciting matchup versus Robson Conceição”, said Dylan Wanagiel, VP of Sports Properties & Special Events for Prudential Center. “Having Shakur back home means a great deal to this city, as his presence alone is an inspiration to our next generation. We look forward to another historic night as we add to the rich history of combat sports in our great state of New Jersey. We welcome all fight aficionados to join the unique excitement of a Newark crowd, which we will share with the worldwide audiences of ESPN and ESPN Deportes.”

Stevenson (18-0, 9 KOs) returns to Prudential Center following a career-best performance in April over Oscar Valdez. He unified two junior lightweight titles in a near-shutout over 12 rounds and vaulted up the pound-for-pound rankings. Stevenson, a former featherweight world champion, won the WBO junior lightweight strap last October with a knockout over long-reigning champion Jamel Herring. In 18 professional fights since capturing a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, Stevenson has lost a small handful of rounds, establishing himself as the sport’s premier defensive practitioner. The southpaw stylist comes back to Brick City intent on maintaining his dominance.

Stevenson said, “I’m coming home to Newark and I’m back as a unified champion. I’ve always proudly represented Newark, and I’m ready to perform in front of my hometown fans at Prudential Center on September 23. Robson Conceição gave Oscar Valdez a tough fight. A lot of people felt like he won, but we’ll see how good he really is when he fights me.”

Conceição (17-1, 8 KOs) made history as Brazil’s first Olympic boxing gold medalist, turning pro under the Top Rank banner less than three months after the 2016 Rio Games. He entered the Valdez last fight last September with a 16-0 record, but the oddsmakers gave him little shot at dethroning the champion. Twelve rounds later, he lost a close points verdict but ultimately proved himself as a worthy title contender. Less than five months after the Valdez fight, he traveled to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and upset the previously undefeated Xavier Martinez over 10 rounds. Conceição, who fought the likes of Valdez, Vasiliy Lomachenko, Joe Cordina and Josh Taylor as an amateur, now gets the chance to battle another decorated amateur turned professional world champion.

Conceição said, “Shakur Stevenson is an excellent athlete and has my respect for everything he has accomplished. Our paths are crossing, and there will only be one champion. I guarantee the best performance of my life. It will be the fight of the year and a great show for the audience and my Brazilian fans, the ones that never give up!”

Davis (5-0, 4 KOs), from Norfolk, Virginia, shined in the Stevenson-Valdez co-feature, knocking out Esteban Sanchez in six rounds. The 23-year-old nicknamed “The Businessman,” is a rising star who has yet to lose a round in the paid ranks. The one-time amateur superstar was one of the fistic stars of Tokyo 2020. Davis ran roughshod through the lightweight bracket until the championship bout, where he lost a competitive decision to Cuban prodigy Andy Cruz.

The undercard, streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+, is highlighted by the fifth professional outing of featherweight Bruce Carrington, who hails from Brownsville, Brooklyn. Carrington (4-0, 3 KOs) will fight Chilean veteran Jose Argel (8-4, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder. Carrington has won three straight by knockout since turning pro with a decision victory last October on the Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder III undercard.

In other undercard action:

Long Island-born welterweight prospect Jahi Tucker (8-0, 5 KOs) steps up in class against New Mexico’s Jose Luis Sanchez (11-2-1, 4 KOs) in a six-rounder. Sanchez went the distance against top junior middleweight prospect Xander Zayas last September.

A pair of Puerto Rican contenders, junior lightweight Henry “Moncho” Lebron (16-0, 10 KOs) and featherweight Orlando Gonzalez (18-1, 11 KOs), will see action in separate eight-rounders.

Floyd “Cashflow” Diaz (6-0, 2 KOs), from The Bronx, N.Y., fights in a six-rounder at junior featherweight, while popular Puerto Rican prospect Armani Almestica (6-0, 6 KOs) goes for knockout number seven in a six-rounder at lightweight.

Popular New York City welterweight Pablo Valdez (6-0, 5 KOs) makes his 2022 debut in a six-rounder.

ABOUT PRUDENTIAL CENTER
Prudential Center is the world-class sports and entertainment venue located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. Opened in October 2007, the state-of-the-art arena is the home of the National Hockey League’s (NHL) three-time Stanley Cup Champion New Jersey Devils, Seton Hall University’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball program, and more than 175 concerts, family shows and special events each year. The arena is also home to the GRAMMY Museum Experience Prudential Center, which opened its doors to the public in October 2017. The 8,200-square-foot experience marks the first GRAMMY Museum outpost on the East Coast and features a dynamic combination of educational programming and interactive permanent and traveling exhibits, including a spotlight on legendary GRAMMY winners from New Jersey. Ranked in the Top 8 nationally by Pollstar, Billboard and Venues Today, Prudential Center is recognized as one of the premier venues in the United States, and hosts over 2 million guests annually. For more information about Prudential Center, visit PruCenter.com and follow the arena on FacebookTwitter and Instagram @PruCenter. Prudential Center is a Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment property.




July 15: Illness Forces Keyshawn Davis to Withdraw from ESPN-Televised Co-Feature at Pechanga Resort Casino

(July 8, 2022) — Undefeated lightweight Keyshawn Davis has been forced to withdraw from his July 15 co-feature against Jair Valtierra due to an illness that interrupted his training camp. Davis (5-0, 4 KOs), a U.S. Olympic silver medalist, will return this fall.
 
The new eight-round co-feature will see Valtierra fight unbeaten Southern California native Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (14-0, 12 KOs), who was scheduled to fight on the undercard.
 
Arnold Barboza Jr.-Danielito Zorrilla, Muratalla-Valtierra and Richard Torrez Jr.-Roberto Zavala Jr. will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Ringside Ticket Inc., tickets starting at $29 are on sale now and can be purchased at Pechanga.com.




July 15: Arnold Barboza Jr.-Danielito Zorrilla and Olympic Silver Medal Stars Keyshawn Davis & Richard Torrez Jr. Confirmed for ESPN-Televised Tripleheader at Pechanga Resort Casino

TEMECULA, Calif. (May 26, 2022) — Southern California 140-pound standout Arnold Barboza Jr. wanted the main event spotlight. He’ll get his opportunity to shine when he takes on Puerto Rican contender Danielito “El Zorro” Zorrilla in a 10-round junior welterweight showdown Friday, July 15, at the Pechanga Summit at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. 
 
Tokyo 2020 U.S. Olympic silver medalists Keyshawn Davis and Richard Torrez Jr. will return on the card, with Davis battling Jair “Kaiser” Valtierra in the eight-round lightweight co-feature. Torrez will open the televised broadcast in a six-round heavyweight special attraction versus Roberto Zavala Jr.
 
Barboza-Zorrilla, Davis-Valtierra and Torrez-Zavala will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Ringside Ticket Inc., tickets starting at $29 are on sale now and can be purchased at Pechanga.com.
 
Barboza (26-0, 10 KOs), from South El Monte, California, is a nine-year pro who is closing in on a world title shot following a series of headline-grabbing victories. In April 2019, he knocked out former world champion Mike Alvarado in three rounds, a resounding Los Angeles homecoming that solidified him as a top contender. Barboza has won five bouts since, securing one-sided verdicts over Ricky Sismundo, William Silva, Tony Luis, Alex Saucedo, and Antonio Moran. He comes back following an 11-month layoff, the second-longest of his career. Ranked No. 8 by the WBO and No. 11 by the WBC, Barboza hopes a dominating win over his unbeaten foe will earn him that long-awaited title opportunity.
 
“I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. This fight will put the other fighters at 140 pounds on notice. We’re going to take full advantage of it,” Barboza said. “Zorrilla is undefeated, ranked, and coming off a great win. We’re going to make a statement on July 15. I want a world title shot soon, and I’m going to keep pushing forward and fighting whoever they put in front of me.”
 
Zorrilla (16-0, 12 KOs) is a native of a Toa Baja, Puerto Rico, who had more than 100 victories before turning pro with a second-round knockout in November 2016. The 28-year-old, ranked No. 10 by the WBO at 140 pounds, has diced through his opposition in the paid ranks with 11 knockouts in three rounds or less. He went 2-0 in 2021, edging past Ruslan Madiyev in March and knocking out former interim world champion Pablo Cesar Cano in two rounds in September. A renaissance man who has an associate degree in banking and cuts hair out of his home-based barbershop, Zorrilla can cut past the line of contenders with a victory over Barboza.
 
“I am extremely grateful for this opportunity, and I want to thank Miguel Cotto Promotions and Top Rank,” Zorrilla said. “We have been waiting for an opportunity of this magnitude. Arnold Barboza Jr. is a quality opponent, and I’ve always wanted an at-bat against a top contender. I am working very hard, and I will be at 100 percent on July 15 to continue my journey to a junior welterweight world championship.”
 
Davis (5-0, 4 KOs), the fighting prodigy from Norfolk, Virginia, has been on a whirlwind ride to stardom over the past year-plus. In February 2021, he turned pro on a Canelo Alvarez undercard in Miami, fought on another Canelo card at AT&T Stadium in Texas, earned his Olympic silver medal, signed a multi-year promotional contract with Top Rank, and made his Top Rank debut in December with a second-round knockout at Madison Square Garden. He fought April 30 on the Oscar Valdez-Shakur Stevenson card at MGM Grand Garden Arena, knocking out Mexican veteran Esteban Sanchez in six rounds. Valtierra (16-1, 8 KOs), from Leon, Mexico, is a four-year pro who previously held the WBC Latino lightweight title. Last August, he suffered an upset knockout loss to Alberto Ruiz Ibarra. Three months later, Valtierra got back on the winning track with a convincing 10-round decision over Argentina’s Javier Jose Clavero.
 
“Every time I fight, I try to give the fans something to remember, and I’m excited to make my Southern California debut. I will put on a show for everyone watching on ESPN, that much I can guarantee,” Davis said. “We know Valtierra is coming to fight, and I’ll be ready to match whatever he brings.”
 
Torrez (1-0, 1 KO), from Tulare, California, is a 22-year-old southpaw who became the first U.S. Olympic super heavyweight medalist since 1988. He made his pro debut on March 4 in Fresno, California, knocking out Allen Melson in the second round. Torrez sustained a cut along his right eyebrow in the first round, which delayed his second outing by a couple of months. Zavala (2-1-1, 2 KOs), from Del Rio, Texas, has never fought outside Texas. He has never been stopped in the paid ranks and is coming off a four-round draw against the 2-0 Rudy Silvas. The 34-year-old has never weighed under 255 pounds as a pro and should have a significant size advantage over Torrez, who tipped the scales at 228¼ pounds for his debut.
 
Torrez said, “Ever since that cut in my pro debut, I’ve been counting down the days until my next fight. I’m thankful to be fighting on ESPN and back in my home state. If you don’t know why you should watch me, you will soon.”
 
Undercard action, streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+, includes SoCal lightweight sensation Raymond “Danger” Muratalla in an eight-rounder against an opponent to be named. Muratalla (14-0, 12 KOs), a 25-year-old from Fontana, California, has knocked out nine consecutive opponents. He last fought April 30 on the Valdez-Stevenson card in Las Vegas, knocking out the usually durable Jeremy Hill in three rounds.
 
The undercard will also see heavyweight contender Stephan Shaw (16-0, 12 KOs) in an eight-rounder, and Las Vegas-born junior featherweight prospect Floyd “Cashflow” Diaz (4-0, 1 KO) in a six-rounder against Pedro Salome (3-0-1, 1 KO).




Shakur Stevenson scores dominant decision over Valdez

LAS VEGAS — Shakur Stevenson wondered how good he was.

He can quit wondering.

He’s good, pound-for-pound good. Pay-per-view good is still a question. But the answers he wants, the stardom he’s seeking, are a lot closer today than they were a week ago.

A one-sided victory over Oscar Valdez Jr. Saturday night for two pieces of the junior-lightweight title at the MGM Grand was another convincing piece of more evidence that there are no limits to Stevenson’s unfolding career.

Stevenson (18-0, 9 KOs) did what he had to – and often whatever he wanted to — in scoring a lopsided decision over Valdez (30-1, 23 KOs), who had only his trademark resilience and none of Stevenson’s speed or precision.

“I told ya’ll what I was going to do.,’’ Stevenson said. I said I’m gonna beat Valdez, (stablemate) Canelo (Alvarez) and (trainer) Eddy Reynoso.

“That was my game plan — beat the whole team. I feel good about it. Much respect to them, but that was my game plan.”

The judges’ cards added up to a rout. It was 118-109, 117-110 and 118-109, all for Stevenson. The oddsmakers were right. Stevenson was an 8-to-1 favorite the night before opening bell. He could have been an 80-to-1 favorite, for all that it mattered. Valdez simply didn’t have much of a chance.

That was never more evident than in the sixth round. Stevenson, often careful early. caught Valdez with a looping right hand.

It turned Valdez and sent him crashing into the ropes. Quickly, Stevenson landed another right that put Valdez onto the canvas. It was a decisive moment. It was clear then that Stevenson’s victory was just a matter of time.

“He has great boxing skills,’’ Valdez said. “He was just the better fighter this night. He did what he had to do to win the fight.

“His speed is there. Power is there. He was just he better fighter tonight. Overall, a great fighter.”

There was a theory that Valdez might be able to test Stevenson. Valdez had shown power in earlier fights. The idea was that he would take Stevenson to a place he’s never been.

But Valdez was never able to deliver that adversity. He tried early. He was the aggressor. He pursued. But his shots mostly missed. All the while, his energy drained away like water through a colander.

Not even a friendly crowd could sustain Valdez. The order to the ring walks was determined by a coin flip. Stevenson won that one too, meaning he was second to parade down the aisle, up the steps and through the ropes. Valdez was first.

Valdez was greeted by a pro-Mexican crowd that serenaded him, a Son of Sonora, as he walked into the arena. Echoes from the roaring crowd could be heard out on the Strip and maybe all the way down to Nogales, his hometown south of Tucson. The odds didn’t favor Valdez. But the crowd did. It booed Stevenson.

Stevenson let his skillset answer, again and again, with speed and precision. From round to round, Stevenson landed shots that slowly yet surely left Valdez tired and with a dwindling work rate.

It was over not long after it started, leaving the 31-year old Valdez with only questions and the 24-year Stevenson with only possibilities.

Keyshawn Davis wins sixth-round TKO

He calls himself The Businessman.

Keyshawn Davis lived up to the nickname, working his way through a few business-like rounds and then applying a finish that suggests the lightweight prospect is well on his way to doing a lot more business Saturday night on the Stevenson-Valdez card at the MGM Grand.

In only his fifth fight since winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, Davis (5-0, 4 KOs) was careful early and punishing in the end, scoring a sixth-round TKO of Mexican Esteban Sanchez (19-2, 8 KOs).

Nico Ali Walsh scores first-round KO

It was a knockout that must have made a grandfather proud

Nico Ali Walsh (5-0, 4 KOS) , grandson of legendary heavyweight Muhmmad Ali, struck swiftly. Struck definitively. 

One-two, a Walsh jab and crushing right hand landed, flooring Alejandro Ibarra (7-2, 2 KOs), who looked to be unconscious before he hit the canvas 2:50 intO the first round of a middleweight fight. Ibarra had to be helped to his feet after concussive end to the first bout t on the ESPN-televised card featuring Shakur Stevenson and Oscar Valdez Jr. in a junior-lightweight title fight at the MGM Grand Saturday.




He’s Got Next: Lightweight Phenom Keyshawn Davis Returns April 30 Against Esteban Sánchez as Oscar Valdez-Shakur Stevenson Co-Feature LIVE on ESPN at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (March 30, 2022) — Lightweight Keyshawn Davis, the 23-year-old Olympic silver medal superstar from Norfolk, Virginia, is coming to Las Vegas on Pro Football Draft weekend to show why he should be the boxing world’s top draft pick. Davis will battle Mexican veteran Esteban Sánchez in an eight-rounder Saturday, April 30 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
 
Davis-Sanchez will be the co-feature to the junior lightweight title unification showdown between WBC champion Oscar Valdez and WBO king Shakur Stevenson.
 
Valdez-Stevenson and Davis-Sánchez will be televised live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Undercard bouts will be announced shortly.
 
“Keyshawn Davis was the most sought-after free agent coming out of the Tokyo Olympics, and he is among the sport’s most gifted fighters,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “The main event features two of the world’s best fighters in Valdez and Stevenson, and I have little doubt that Keyshawn is on his way to becoming a pound-for-pound great.”
 
Davis said, “Fighting in Las Vegas at MGM Grand on Pro Football Draft weekend… I was born for this stage. I am going to put on another flawless performance and then watch from ringside as my brother, Shakur, puts on a show as well. The stars will be out, and they are going to see something special.”
 
Davis (4-0, 3 KOs) was supposed to fight Sanchez on March 19 in New York, but he contracted a non-COVID-related virus. He knocked out Jose Zaragoza in two brutal rounds in his Top Rank on ESPN debut last December. Davis made an impression against Zaragoza, folding his overmatched foe with a left hook to the body. His slightly delayed return comes against Sánchez (18-1, 8 KOs) a native of Ensenada, Mexico, who won a pair of fights in 2021 following his only career loss.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting AXS.com.




March 19: John Bauza-Tony Luis Junior Welterweight Clash to Open Edgar Berlanga-Steve Rolls Telecast LIVE on ESPN at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden

NEW YORK (March 11, 2022) —Lightweight star Keyshawn Davis, the Olympic silver medalist from Norfolk, Virginia, has a non-COVID-related virus and was forced to withdraw from his March 19 bout against Esteban Sanchez at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.
 
The new televised opener will feature Puerto Rican junior welterweight prospect John “El Terrible” Bauza against Canadian veteran Tony “Lightning” Luis in an eight-rounder. Bauza joins a pair of his countrymen atop the MSG bill, as super middleweight Edgar “The Chosen One” Berlanga battles Steve Rolls in the 10-round main event. Xander Zayas, San Juan’s 19-year-old phenom, takes on Louisiana native Quincy LaVallais in the eight-round co-feature.
 
Berlanga-Rolls, Zayas-LaVallais and Bauza-Luis will be televised live on ESPN & ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
Bauza (16-0, 7 KOs), from Cataño, Puerto Rico, enters this assignment coming off the two most impressive showings of his career. Last June, he knocked down Christon Edwards three times en route to a second-round stoppage. Bauza followed the Edwards domination with last December’s fourth-round drubbing over the previously unbeaten Michael Williams Jr. The 23-year-old southpaw now steps up against Luis (29-4, 10 KOs), a 34-year-old who has knocked off three undefeated prospects in his career. He went unbeaten for more than five years until an August 2020 decision loss to top contender Arnold Barboza Jr.




Young Guns III: Edgar Berlanga, Xander Zayas and Keyshawn Davis Headline Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden Tripleheader March 19 LIVE on ESPN

NEW YORK (Jan. 20, 2022) — Three future fistic superstars are set to unite under the Madison Square Garden spotlight.

Brooklyn-born super middleweight sensation Edgar “The Chosen One” Berlanga will defend his NABO belt against crafty Canadian Steve Rolls in the 10-round main event Saturday, March 19 at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. Berlanga, whose family hails from San Juan, Puerto Rico, makes his main event debut in his stiffest test to date.

In the junior middleweight co-feature, 19-year-old Puerto Rican star Xander Zayas will fight in his first scheduled eight-rounder against Louisiana-born spoiler Quincy “Chico” LaVallais.

The eight-round televised opener will see the return of lightweight U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis against Mexican veteran Esteban Sanchez.

Berlanga-Rolls, Zayas-LaVallais and Davis-Sanchez will air live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment, tickets starting at $51 go on sale Friday, Jan. 28 at 12 p.m. ET and can be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster.com or MSG.com.

Edgar, Xander and Keyshawn are future pound-for-pound superstars, and it will be a special evening in front of a sold-out New York City crowd,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “All three are in there with the toughest fights of their respective careers, but I expect them to pass with flying colors.”

Berlanga (18-0, 16 KOs) took the boxing world by storm with 16 straight first-round knockouts to open his pro career. He went the distance twice in 2021, opening his campaign in April by knocking down Demond Nicholson four times in eight rounds in an ESPN-televised rout. Berlanga returned on the Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder III card in October, defeating Marcelo Esteban Coceres via 10-round unanimous decision despite suffering a torn biceps in the third round and the first knockdown of his career in the ninth.

Berlanga said, “I’m so excited to fight in my first main event in my hometown. It’s a dream come true for a fighter representing New York City and Puerto Rico. I can’t wait to show the world what I’m truly about. We are going to blow the roof off the Hulu Theater, so grab your tickets early and get your popcorn ready for this performance.”

Rolls (21-1, 12 KOs), a 37-year-old from Toronto, is an 11-year pro who was an undefeated middleweight contender before moving up in weight. In June 2019, he challenged pound-for-pound stalwart Gennadiy Golovkin at Madison Square Garden and found some success in the second round before being stopped in the fourth. Rolls has tallied two wins since the Golovkin bout, most recently knocking out Christopher Brooker in the ninth round last month on the Artur Beterbiev-Marcus Browne undercard in Montreal.

Rolls said, “I’m happy to be back headlining at Madison Square Garden. Training camp has been going well, and I feel very strong with nothing but war on my mind. Berlanga has power, but I’ll be ready for whatever he brings. I’m looking forward to March 19. I’ll see you then.”

Zayas (12-0, 9 KOs) had a breakthrough 2021, going 6-0 with four knockouts while being mentioned prominently in Prospect of the Year debates. He made his Madison Square Garden debut last December and finished his 2021 campaign by knocking out Alessio Mastronunzio in the first round. He steps up against LaVallais (12-2-1, 7 KOs), who notched a December 2020 upset over Clay Collard at the MGM Grand Bubble. LaVallais, who is 2-2 since the Collard victory, has never been knocked out.

Zayas said, “It’s an honor to fight again at Madison Square Garden, where I know my Puerto Rican people will come out to show their support. 2021 was a great year, but I’m looking forward to an even bigger 2022. Quincy LaVallais is a solid veteran, so I can’t overlook him. I want to make a major statement on March 19.”

Davis (4-0, 3 KOs), from Norfolk, Virginia, won three bouts in the first five months of 2021 before journeying to Tokyo and earning a silver medal. He then signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank and improved to 4-0 with a second-round stoppage over Jose Zaragoza on December 11. Davis makes his 2022 debut against Sanchez (18-1, 8 KOs), a 23-year-old from Ensenada, Mexico, who has won two straight bouts and will be making his American debut.

Davis said, “I put on a show at Madison Square Garden in December, and I’m going to do it again. Esteban Sanchez is supposed to be my hardest fight as a pro, but it’s going to be easy work. The Davis Brothers are coming to represent Norfolk and leave no doubt that we are the future of boxing.”

Undercard action will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ and is scheduled to include a host of undefeated talents, including Puerto Rican junior welterweight John “El Terrible” Bauza (16-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-rounder, welterweight and Berlanga’s New York City stablemate Pablo “Pretty Boy” Valdez (6-0, 5 KOs) in a six-round attraction, Puerto Rican junior lightweight Henry “Moncho” Lebron (14-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-rounder, and a four-rounder featuring junior welterweight Kelvin Davis (3-0, 2 KOs).

ALL GUESTS AGE 5 AND OLDER are required to provide proof they have received either two doses of a two-shot COVID-19 vaccination, or one dose of a single-shot vaccine. 

Fully vaccinated guests are not required to wear a mask. Please note that full COVID-19 vaccination means the day of your event is at least 14 days after your final vaccine dose. Everyone else age 2 and older is required to wear a mask while in the venue, except while actively eating or drinking. 

Government mandates, venue protocols and event requirements are also subject to change, so be sure to continue to check MSG.com for the latest information. 




Lomachenko Decisions Commey

Vasilily Lomachenko won a 12-round unanimous decision over Richard Commey in a battle of former world champions at Madison Square Garden in New York, New York.

In round seven, Lomachenko dropped Commey with a left hand.

Lomachenko, 134.4 lbs of Ukraine won by scores of 119-108 twice and 117-110, and is now 16-2. Commey, 134.2 lbs of Accra, GHA is 30-4/

Anderson Takes Out Teslenko in 2

Jared Anderson remained perfect by taking out Oleksandr Teslenko in round two of a scheduled eight-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Anderson landed a crunching right and left hook to the head that sent Teslenko dropping down to the canvas. Teslenko got to his feet, but the fight was called off at 1:33.

Anderson, 240 lbs of Toledo, OH is 11-0 with 11 KO’s. Teslenko, 213.8 lbs of Chevisi, UKR is 17-2.

Keyshawn Davis Shines in Top Rank Debut

Prized Olympic prospect, Keyshawn Davis sizzled in his Top Rank debut by stopping Jose Zaragoza in round two of a scheduled six-round lightweight bout.

Davis landed a big uppercut that put Zaragoza down for the 10-count at 2:51.

Davis, 157.8 lbs of Roanoke, VA is 4-0 with three knockouts. Zaragoza, 136.2 lbs of Jackson, MS is 6-4-2

Nico Ali Walsh Decisions Sanchez

Nico Ali Walsh remained undefeated with a four-round majority decision over Reyes Sanchez in a middleweight bout.

Ali Walsh, 159.2 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 40-36, 39-37 and 38-38 and is now 3-0. Sanchez, 162.8 lbs of Topeka, KS is 6-1.

Xander Zayas stopped Alesio Mastronunzio in round one of a six round junior welterweight boyt.

Zayas decked Mastronunzio with the first punch which was a perfect counter right just 10 seconds into the fight. Zayas battered Mastronunzio throughout the round until it was stopped at 2:52.

Fan-favorite Pablo Valdez remained undefeated with a 4th round stoppage over Julio Cesar Sanchez in a scheduled six-round welterweight fight.

Valdez dropped Sanchez four timed in the fourth round before the fight was halted.

Valdez, 146 lbs of New York is 6-0 with five knockouts. Sanchez, 149.6 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 11-4.

In a battle of undefeated junior welterweights, John Bauza took apart Michael Williams Jr, by scoring a 4th round stoppage in a scheduled eight-round bout,

In round two, Bauza clocked Williams with an overhand left that sent him to the deck. Williams kneeling on the canvas in an effort to slow down Bauza’s attack. In round four, Bauza dropped Williams three times. The first came from a combination on the ropes. The 2nd came from a perfect left. Williams finished the fight with a perfect straight left to the face and the fight was stopped at 2:18.

Bauza, 140.2 lbs of Puerto Rico is now 16-0 with seven knockouts. Williams, 138.9 lbs of Fayetteville, NC is 19-1.

James Wilkins won a eight-round unanimous decision over Juan Tapia in a junior lightweight fight.

In round four, Wilkins dropped Tapia with a strong jab.

Wilkins, 127.2 lbs of Staten Island, NY won by scores of 77-74, 77-75 and 76-75 and is now 10-2. Tapia, 128.4 lbs of Brownsville, TX is 10-4.

Kelvin Davis remained undefeated with a 2nd round stoppage over Ryan Schwartzberg in a welterweight fight.

Schwartzberg could not see and the fight was stopped in the corner.

Davis, 144 lbs of Norfolk, VA is 3-0 with two knockouts, Schwartzberg, 144.8 lbs of Davie, FL is 1-4-1.

Joe Ward stopped Britton Norwood in round one of a scheduled six-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Ward dropped Norwood with a combination to the chin. With Norwood hurt, Ward was all over Norwood and the fight was stopped at 1:35.

Ward, 175.2 lbs of Athlone, IRL is 6-1 with three knockouts. Norwood, 176.4 lbs of Jackson, MS is 10-3-1.




December 11: Keyshawn Davis-Jose Zaragoza & Nico Ali Walsh-Reyes Sanchez Confirmed for Lomachenko-Commey Televised Quadruple-Header at Madison Square Garden and LIVE on ESPN

NEW YORK (Dec. 3, 2021) — Keyshawn Davis, the lightweight star who earned a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, has a golden chance to shine on one of boxing’s biggest platforms. Davis (3-0, 2 KOs), in his first fight since signing a long-term deal with Top Rank, will face Mexican veteran Jose Zaragoza (8-3-1, 2 KOs) in a six-round bout Saturday, Dec. 11 on the undercard of the Vasiliy Lomachenko-Richard Commey lightweight main event.

Middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh (2-0, 2 KOs), grandson of “The Greatest,” Muhammad Ali, will fight fellow unbeaten Reyes Sanchez (6-0, 2 KOs) in the four-round televised opener.

Lomachenko-Commey, an eight-round heavyweight showdown between Jared Anderson and Oleksandr Teslenko, Davis-Zaragoza and Ali Walsh-Reyes will air live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT following the 2021 Heisman Trophy Ceremony.

Davis, one of boxing’s most sought-after promotional free agents, signed a long-term contract with Top Rank last month. His notoriety soared following the Tokyo Olympics, a run that included a knockout win over France’s Sofiane Oumiha and a close loss to Cuban legend Andy Cruz in the gold medal match. Zaragoza has won three straight fights and has never been knocked out as a pro.

The full undercard will stream live on ESPN+ at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and is scheduled to include the following bouts:

  • Xander Zayas (11-0, 8 KOs), the rising Puerto Rican star and frontrunner for 2021 Prospect of the Year, will fight Italy’s Alessio Mastronunzio (9-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round junior middleweight clash. Zayas is 5-0 with three knockouts in 2021, including a fourth-round drubbing of Dan Karpency in October on the Shakur Stevenson-Jamel Herring undercard. Mastronunzio, who is making his American debut, is 4-0 in 2021.
     
  • Undefeated welterweight Pablo “Pretty Boy” Valdez (5-0, 4 KOs), the popular New York City ticket-seller from the Lower East Side, is scheduled to fight Julio Cesar Sanchez (11-3, 6 KOs) in a six-rounder. Valdez fought Oct. 30 at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, outlasting Alejandro Martinez in a toe-to-toe crowd-pleaser.
     
  • Kelvin Davis (2-0, 1 KO), the older brother of Keyshawn Davis, will clash with Bryan Emmanuel Ramirez (1-1-1, 1 KO) in a four-rounder at welterweight. Kelvin Davis also signed with Top Rank last month.
     
  • In an eight-round battle of unbeaten junior welterweights, John “El Terrible” Bauza (15-0, 6 KOs) will face Michael “Boy Wonder” Williams Jr. (19-0, 12 KOs). Bauza is coming off June’s second-round blitzing of Christon Edwards, while Williams seeks to tally his sixth victory of 2021.
     
  • Staten Island-born featherweight prospect James “Crunch Time” Wilkins (9-2, 6 KOs) hopes to thrill the home city fans in an eight-rounder against Texas native Juan Tapia (10-3, 3 KOs). Wilkins, who was homeless on the streets of Staten Island early in his pro career, makes his Madison Square Garden debut with hopes of graduating to contender status.
     
  • Former Irish amateur superstar “Mighty” Joe Ward (5-1, 2 KOs) looks to make it six wins in a row against Britton Norwood (10-3-1, 7 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight tilt. Ward suffered a freak knee injury in his October 2019 pro debut against Marco Delgado and lost via second-round TKO. He avenged the loss with a one-sided decision over Delgado in March. As an amateur, Ward was a three-time European Championships gold medalist, a three-time World Championships medalist, and a 2016 Olympian.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster.com or MSG.com.

In order to attend the event, all guests age 12 and older are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination (this means having at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine prior to attending). MSG’s comprehensive COVID-19 guidelines, including those regarding children under 12, can be found at https://www.msg.com/madison-square-garden/faqs.

About Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.
Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment) is a leader in live entertainment. The Company presents or hosts a broad array of events in its diverse collection of venues: New York’s Madison Square Garden, Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and Beacon Theatre; and The Chicago Theatre. MSG Entertainment is also building a new state-of-the-art venue in Las Vegas, MSG Sphere at The Venetian. In addition, the Company features the original production – the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes – and through Boston Calling Events, produces the Boston Calling Music Festival. The Company’s two regional sports and entertainment networks, MSG Network and MSG+, deliver a wide range of live sports content and other programming. Also under the MSG Entertainment umbrella is Tao Group Hospitality, with entertainment dining and nightlife brands including: Tao, Marquee, Lavo, Beauty & Essex, Cathédrale, Hakkasan and Omnia. More information is available at www.msgentertainment.com.  

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 17.1 million subscribers.

Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $6.99 a month (or $69.99 per year)
at ESPN.comESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $19.99/month (Hulu w/o ads).




Silver Streak: U.S. Olympic Silver Medalists Keyshawn Davis & Richard Torrez Jr. Sign Long-Term Promotional Contracts with Top Rank

LAS VEGAS (Nov. 17, 2021) — From Tokyo to Top Rank, two recent U.S. Olympic silver medalists have found their professional home.

Lightweight sensation Keyshawn “The Businessman” Davis and heavyweight Richard Torrez Jr., two of Team USA’s three silver medalists in Tokyo, signed long-term promotional contracts with Top Rank. All good things come in threes, as undefeated junior welterweight prospect Kelvin Davis, Keyshawn’s older brother, also inked a deal with the promotional powerhouse.

The Davis Brothers, from Norfolk, Virginia, will make their respective Top Rank debuts Saturday, Dec. 11 on the Vasiliy Lomachenko-Richard Commey card at Madison Square Garden. Keyshawn Davis will fight in a six-rounder on ESPN & ESPN Deportes (9 p.m. ET) as part of a televised quadruple-header that features the Jared Anderson-Oleksandr Teslenko heavyweight battle and middleweight Nico Ali Walsh in a four-rounder.

Torrez will have his pro debut in early 2022, with details announced in due course.

Top Rank promotes all five male U.S. Olympians from Tokyo, including featherweight silver medalist Duke Ragan (4-0, 1 KO), middleweight Troy Isley (3-0, 2 KOs), and welterweight Tiger Johnson, who makes his pro debut Saturday on the Terence Crawford-Shawn Porter undercard.

“Top Rank is proud to promote an outstanding group of fighters who also comport themselves with dignity outside the ring,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Richard Torrez Jr. is a southpaw pressure fighter who will instantly become a heavyweight fan favorite. I can’t wait to see the Davis Brothers, both of whom have valuable experience as pros and will shine at Madison Square Garden on December 11.”

Keyshawn & Kelvin Davis: The Journey Begins

Keyshawn Davis (3-0, 2 KOs), pegged by many experts as one of the sport’s elite young talents, returned to the amateurs following three professional fights in early 2021. The 22-year-old earned silver medals at the Tokyo Olympics, 2019 World Championships and 2019 Pan American Games, falling in the gold medal match each time to Cuba’s sensational Andy Cruz.

Keyshawn and Kelvin Davis are trained by Brian McIntyre, who has a star-studded roster that includes pound-for-pound king Terence “Bud” Crawford and former junior lightweight world champion Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring. Keyshawn Davis hopes to follow in the footsteps of another Norfolk great, the late Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker, a four-division champion who won his first title as a lightweight. He also draws inspiration from a group of Olympic medalists who turned pro under the Top Rank banner and went on to win world titles: Floyd Mayweather Jr., Oscar De La Hoya, Michael Carbajal, and Shakur Stevenson.

“When I look at all the great fighters Bob Arum promoted, it’s an honor to continue that legacy,” Keyshawn Davis said. “I know it will be my time one day, so I’m going to trust the process, develop my skills, and work towards becoming a world champion. The Davis Brothers are coming to make their mark.”

Kelvin Davis (2-0, 1 KO) last fought May 8 on the Canelo Alvarez-Billy Joe Saunders card and defeated Jan Marsalek by unanimous decision. A 6’1 southpaw, the 24-year-old promises to be a stylistic challenge as a 140-pounder.

“Joining Top Rank with my younger brother is a thrill, not only for me, but for our entire family,” Kelvin Davis said. “I’ve been grinding in the gym since my last fight, and I am ready to put the junior welterweight division on notice.”

Richard Torrez Jr: California Central Valley’s Heavyweight Hopeful

Richard Torrez Jr. hails from Tulare, California, a farming community in the Central Valley located roughly 45 minutes from Fresno.

The 22-year-old comes from a proud fighting family. His father and trainer, Richard Torrez Sr., was an accomplished amateur boxer who had more than 250 fights and advanced to the semifinals of the 1984 U.S. Olympic Trials. His grandfather, Manuel Torrez, founded the Tulare Athletic Boxing Club in the early 1940s. That gym helped hone the youngest Torrez’s talents and led him to a meteoric rise through the amateur ranks.

“After the Olympics, I took my time in deciding my professional future, and I was impressed with what Top Rank had to offer,” Torrez said. “I want to build something in this sport, and Top Rank has a long history of developing young fighters into champions.

“I am also thrilled to be joined at Top Rank by my Olympic teammates. Duke, Tiger, Troy, Keyshawn, and I grew up together as amateurs. I can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

Torrez was a U.S. National Championships gold medalist in 2017 and 2018, in addition to capturing three U.S. Youth National titles from 2014-2016. He became the first U.S. Olympic Super Heavyweight to medal since Riddick Bowe took home silver in 1988. Torrez had a 154-10 amateur record, a run that ended in Tokyo with a competitive decision loss to longtime rival Bakhodir Jalolov, who is 8-0 as a pro.

At 6’2 and roughly 230 pounds, Torrez is a volume puncher who has long thrived against taller and naturally larger fighters. Outside the ring, he is a Renaissance man. He was valedictorian of his class at Mission Oak High School, played multiple varsity sports and was president of the school’s chess club. The straight-A student who climbed to amateur boxing’s apex now sets his aim on the professional game.




Canelo Stops Saunders after 8

Canelo Alvarez looked befuddled at times, but he turned it on in round eight, and stopped Billy Joe Saunders after that frame to retain the WBA/WBC and win the WBO Super Middleweight title from Billy Joe Saunders in front of an American indoor record of 73, 126 fans at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Alvarez came out landing thudding power shots against the slick jabbing Saunders. Saunders found a rhythm in the middle frames as he was able to get his jab and uppercuts working he began to give the Mexican icon problems.

With the fight seemingly close, Alvarez stepped on the gas in round eight, as he got back to landing hard punches, which included a uppercut that caused the right eye to close. After the round, Saunders was distressed by the eye and his corner pulled the plug on the fight.

Alvarez, 167.4 lbs of Guasalajara, Mexico now owns three of the four recognized titles and will to become undisputed with a proposed Fall showdown with Caleb Plant. Alvarez is now 56-1-2 with 38 knockouts. Saunders, 167.8 lbs of Hatfield, UK is 30-1.

Soto stops Takayama; Retains Light Flyweight title

Elwin Soto made the third defense of the WBO Light Flyweight title with a controversial ninth-round stoppage of former world champion Katsunari Takayama.

Soto dominated by landing the harder punches; Takayama kept himself in the bout by landing some nice flurries throughout.

In round nine, Soto was landing some good power shots, but Takayama was throwing back, but for some reason, referee Laurence Cole stepped in and stopped the bout with both guys in mid-flurry at 2:44.

Soto, 107.8 lbs of Baja California, MEX is 19-1 with 13 knockouts. Takayama, 107.6 lbs of Osake, JAP is 32-9.

Cissokho survives knockdown; Decisions Conway

Souleymane Cissokho won a 10-round split decision over Kieron Conway in a super welterweight fight.

In round four, Conway began leaking blood from his nose.

In round nine, Conway dropped Cissokho with hard uppercut to the face.

Cissokho landed 115 of 539 punches; Conway was 84 of 403.

Cissokho won by scores of 96-93 and 95-94 while Conway somehow got a card 97-92.

Cissokho, 153.6 lbs of Bagnolet, FRA is now 13-0. Conway, 154 lbs of Northampton, UK is 16-2.

Sanchez wins Technical Decision over Aguilera

Frank Sanchez remained undefeated with a technical unanimous decision over Nagy Aguilera when Aguilera could not continue after getting hit behind the head in the 6th round of their 10-round heavyweight bout.

Sanchez dominated the fight, and in round six, Sanchez landed a shot that scraped the back of Aguilera’s head that sent him down. He could not continue and the fight went to the judges scorecards, which all read 60-54 in favor of Sanchez.

Sanchez landed 81 of 240 punches; Aguilera was 32 of 181.

Sanchez, 237 lbs of Guantanamo, CUB is 18-0. Aguilera, 238.2 lbs of Houston, TX is 21-11.

Marc Castro remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Irving Castillo in a lightweight bout.

In round one, Castillo began to bleed from the nose. In round four, Castro dropped Castillo, and the fight was stopped at 2:04.

Castro, 132 1/4 lbs is 3-0 with three knockouts. Castillo is 9-2.

Keyshawn Davis remained perfect with a six-round unanimous decision over Jose Antonio Meza in a junior welterweight bout.

Davis, 138 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 3-0. Meza, 138 lbs of Gomez Palico, MEX is 6-5.

Christian Gomez Duran stopped Xavier Wilson in round two of their scheduled eight-round welterweight bout.

Duran dropped Wilson with a hard over rand fight and the fight was stopped.

Duran, 147 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 20-2-1 with 18 knockouts. Wilson, 147.8 lbs of San Antonio, TX is 11-3-1.

Kelvin Davis survived a last minute knockdown, but still hung on to win a four-round unanimous decision over Jan Marsalek in a welterweight bout.

Davis was breezing along until he ate a overhand right that sent him to the canvas. Davis was hurt, but time ran out for Marsalek.

Davis, 143.8 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 38-37 on all cards, and is now 2-0. Marsalek, 144.4 lbs of Czech Reoublic is 8-3.




LIVE FIGHTS: Canelo vs Saunders Undercard – Davis Bros, Marc Castro & more!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8iCNygxr8o



Herring stops Frampton in 6; Retains Junior Lightweight Title

Jamel Herring stopped former two-division world champion Carl Frampton to retain the WBO Junior Lightweight world title at Caesars Palace Dubai.

Herring dominated the fight by boxing. He began to break the smaller Frampton down, and in round five. In round six, Herring dropped Frampton for a second time with a powerful left, Frampton tried to fight on, but began to take a battering and the fight was stopped at 1:40.

Herring of Coram, NY is 23-2 with 11 knockouts. Frampton of Belfast, IRE is 28-3.

Frampton announced his retirement after the fight.

“I’m just honored to share the ring with him, Herring said. “He’s a two-division world champion. He’s done great in the sport of boxing, and it was just an honor.
 
“It was an emotional rollercoaster just to get here. My last outing was not my best. People doubted me. They called me every name in the book, but even with the cut, I wasn’t going to give up. I wasn’t going to quit, and Carl Frampton is a tremendous champion. I’ve been a fan since day one. It’s tough to see any veteran of the sport go out like that.”

Frampton said, “I said before the fight I’d retire if I lost, and that’s exactly what I’m going to do. I want to just to dedicate my life to my family now. Boxing has been good to me. It’s also been bad to me, but the last few years with these boys have been the best years of my career. I just want to go home to my beautiful wife and kids, and that’s it.

“I just got beat by the better man. I really struggled to get inside on him.”

Nietes Decisions Carillo

Former four-division world champion Donnie Nietes won a 10-round unanimous decision over Pablo Carillo in a super flyweight fight.

Nietes landed 97 of 425 punches; Carrillo was 81 of 416.

Nietes, 114 1/2 lbs of The Philippines won by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 96-95 and is now 43-1-5. Carillo, 114 1/2 lbs is 14-3-1.

Keyshawn Davis stopped Richman Ashelley after round four of their scheduled six-round lightweight fight.

Davis is 2-0 with two knockouts. Ashelley is 10-2.

Fahad Al Bloushi won a four-round unanimous decision over Suraj in a super featherweight fight.

Bloushi is 4-1. Suraj is 2-2.

Tursymbay Kulakhmet stopped Heber Rondon in round one of their scheduled 10-round super welterweight bout.

Kulakhmet dropped Rondon twice with vicious hook, and the bout was stopped/

Kulakhmet is now 3-0 with two knockouts. Rondon is 20-1.




Alvarez stops Yildirim After 3

Canelo Alvarez did what he was supposed to do. He dominated Avni Yildirim and scored a stoppage win after round three to retain the WBA/WBC Super Middleweight world championships at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Alvarez came out landing vicious body shots and hard uppercuts that started to soften Yildirim up. In round three, Alvarez landed a hard right hand that sent Yildirim on his back. Yildirim continued to take punishment for the rest of the round the fight was stopped in the corner.

Alvarez, 167 1/2 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 55-1-2 with 37 knockouts. Yildirim, 167 1/2 lbs of Turkey is 21-3.

Arroyo stops Rodriguez in 5; Wins Interim Flyweight Title

McWilliams Arroyo won the WBC Interim Flyweight title by stopping very late replacement Abraham Rodriguez in round five.

Arroyo broke Rodriguez down with hard shots until the fight was stopped at 1:41 of round five.

Arroyo, 112 lbs of Fajardo, PR is 21-4 with 16 knockouts. Rodriguez took the fight on less than a day notice as champion Julio Cesar Martinez hurt his hand. Rodriguez is now 27-3.

Forrest and Zhang fight to a Draw

It looked like it would be an easy night at the office for world ranked heavyweight Zhilei Zhang, it was anything but as he had to literal hold on to get a 10-round draw with Jerry Forrest.

Zhang scored hard knockdowns in each of the first three rounds, and was seemingly one punch away from ending things. Forrest hung in there, and and dominated the second half of the fight as he landed quick and hard combinations that had an exhausted Zhang holding on to the point where he was deducted a point in the 9th frame. Forrest had a strong final round that saw him hurt Zhang on a couple of occasions.

Zhang was 104 of 311 punches; Forrest was 156 of 555.

Forrest took a card 95-93 and two cards were even at 94-94.

Forrest 236 3/4 lbs of Newport News, VA is 26-4-1. Zhang, 256 3/4 lbs of China is 22-0-1.

Pacheco Decisions Gomez Jr.

Diego Pacheco remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Rodolfo Gomez Jr. in a super middleweight fight.

Pacheco landed 117 of 382 punches; Gomez was 70 of 351.

Pacheco, 168 lbs of Los Angeles won by scores of 79-73 on all cards and is mow 11-0. Gomez, 167lbs of Laredo, TX is 14-5-1.

Castro Stops Moraga in 2

Marc Castro stopped John Moraga in round two of their scheduled four-round junior lightweight bout.

In round one, Castro dropped Moraga in the opening seconds with a jab. In round two, Castro dropped Moraga with a hard right hand. Moments later Castro ended thing when he landed a hard uppercut that sent Moraga down again, and the fight was stopped at 2:29.

Castro, 129 1/2 lbs of Fresno, CA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Moraga, 131 lbs of Pheonix, AZ is 1-3.

Highly-touted prospect Keyshawn Davis stopped Lester Brown in round two of their scheduled four-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Davis put Brown down with a solid right to the head. Later in the round, Davis continued the assault until the bout was stopped at 2:50

Davis, 136 1/2 lbs of Norfolk, VA is 1-0 with one knockout. Brown, 134 1/2 lbs of Nassau, BAH is 4-3-3.

Aaron Aponte remained undefeated by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Harry Gigliotti in a junior welterweight contest.

In round four, Aponte landed a right hand that sent Gigliotti down. Later in the round Gigliotti was deducted a point for headbutting.

Aponte, 139 3/4 lbs of Hialeah, FL won by scores of 40-34 on all cards, and is now 2-0. Gigliotti, 139 1/4 lbs of Havenhill, MA is 6-2.

Alexis Espino remained undefeated with a fifth round stoppage over Ashton Sykes in a super middleweight fight.

In round five, Espino hurt Sykes with hard left. That gave Espino the opportunity to land a series of hard punches that left Sykes prone, and the fight was stopped at 2:03.

Espino, 167 3/4 lbs of Las Vegas is now 7-0 with five knockouts. Sykes, 166 1/4 lbs of Colombia, MD is 5-4.