LOS ANGELES (April 16, 2025) – Former World Boxing Council (WBC) and Lineal Light Heavyweight World Champion Oleksandr “Nails” Gvozdyk (20-2, 16 KOs) returns to the ring this Saturday for an eight-round bout against Anthony Hollaway (9-7-3, 7 KOs) at Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, California.

Gvozdyk vs. Hollaway will be streamed as part of the preliminary card on Golden Boy Promotions’ (GBP) YouTube channel.

Gvozdyk hasn’t fought since last June, when he lost a 12-round decision to David Benavidez for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight World title.

Ukraine-native Gvozdyk, 37, captured a bronze medal at the 2012 Olympics. “Nails” is currently world rated at No. 4 by the WBC, as well as No. 7 Ring Magazine, and No. 10 by the World Boxing Organization (WBO).

In 2018, Gvozdyk stopped Adonis Stevenson (29-1-1) in the 11th round of their fight in Montreal to become the new WBC and lineal world champion. Gvozdyk successfully defended his crown once, when he defeated Dgumbu (38-8) in Philadelphia by way of a technical knockout in round five.

Gvozdyk is positioned for one more light heavyweight world title shot in arguably the hottest weight classes in boxing.

The loaded, contemporary light heavyweight division features potential Hall of Fame candidates such as Dmitry Bivol, Artur Beterviev, and Benavidez. Gvozdyk’s only two losses as a professional have been to two of the leading contemporary 175-pounders, Beterbiev and Benavidez. Gvozdyk suffered the only knockout of his pro career against Beterbiev and last June, the Ukrainian fighter lost a 12-round unanimous decision to Benavidez for the WBC Interim Light Heavyweight World title.

“Light heavyweight is one of the most exciting divisions right now in boxing,” Gvozdyk said. “There was a time right after Roy Jones, Jr. when there wasn’t a lot of super interest. But then, during my early time, we had Sergey Kovalev, (Adonis) Stevenson, Jean Pascal and Bernard Hopkins in the light heavyweight division. It was good but now we have an undisputed world light heavyweight champion (Bivol), a former undisputed world champ (Beterbiev), two World Interim Champions (Benavidez and Callum Smith), and one former World Interim Champion (Joshua Buatsi), and three Olympians (Beterbiev, Albert Ramirez and Buatsi).” 

Gyozdyk, a promotional free agent, took time from his training session to break down some of the leading light heavyweights in the world:

Dmitrii Bivol (24-1, 12 KOs), Undisputed, Unified World Light Heavyweight Champion, Kyrgyzstan

“He is so skilled with such a high boxing IQ. I was supposed to fight him (in the amateurs) at the 2013 World University Championships, but was injured and couldn’t fight, and I became champion. He is the best light heavyweight in the world. He is complete; speed, footwork, everything. In his first fight against Beterbiev, Bivol showed a little weakness going the distance. To be the best you have to beat the best and Bivol did in their second fight.”

Artur Beterbiev (21-1, 20 KOs), former Undisputed, Unified World Light Heavyweight Champion, 2-time Olympian, Russia

“First, it’s his power. He is a naturally strong guy who can hurt opponents, especially when he gets them on the ropes. Some of the faster guys can give him some trouble – he is 40 – bit he neutralizes what his opponents do well.”

David “The Monster” Benavidez (30-0, 24 KOs), WBC Interim Light Heavyweight World Champion, Former WBC Super Middleweight World Champion, United States

“He has tremendous hand speed who puts on relentless pressure. I’m not saying he can beat Bivol; he could with his power, but I’d still pick Bivol”

Callum “Mundo” Smith (31-2, 22 KOs), WBO Interim Light Heavyweight World Champion, former WBA Super Middleweight World Champion

“I’d really like to fight Smith for his title. He’s good, experienced and has a good jab. I believe I can beat him to become champion.”

Anthony Yarde (26-3, 24 KOs), 2016 Olympian, United Kingdom

“A good, solid fighter who has experience and a physical game. He’s a competitive fighter and one of those fighters, to be respectful, on my radar. He has a good style.”

Albert “El Vigia” Ramirez (20-0, 17 KOs), 2016 Olympian, Venezuela

“I honestly don’t know very much about him, not enough to break him down. I need to study him.”

Joshua Buatsi (19-1, 13 KOs), former WBO Interim World Cruiserweight Champion,

2016 Olympic bronze medalist, Ghana

“He was the (WBO) Interim Champion until Smith recently beat him in a good fight. He has good hands and was a good amateur, taking gold at the Olympics.”

Gvozdyk is now working with 3 Point Management (3 PM), which has a growing stable of gifted boxers including WBA & WBO Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs), world super flyweight title challenger/WBO #1 & WBA #2 John “Scrappy” Ramirez (14-1, 9 KOs), WBA #4 rated super middleweight Darius “DFG” Fulgham (14-0, 12 KOs),former WBA Inter-Continental Light Heavyweight Champion Kareem “Supreme” Hackett (12-1, 6 KOs) and German junior welterweight Simon “Saucy” Vollmer (6-0, 2 KOs).

INFORMATION:

Website: www.3pointmanagement.com

Instagram: @3pointmgmt @Gvozdyk_team

LAS VEGAS.- June 14, 2024 – Sensational undefeated teenage prospect Justin Viloria will battle Mexico’s Angel Contreras in an eight-round super featherweight contest that will open up a three-fight PBC on Prime Video stream this Saturday, June 15 in the 100^th championship fight night at the historic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. These three preliminary matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

Roiman Villa, who was originally scheduled to face Ricardo Salas in the opening bout, was forced to withdraw due to illness.

The live streaming presentation will begin at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and is topped by rising middleweight Elijah García taking on contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 10-round attraction and former world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo facing Mexican contender Eduardo Ramirez in a 10-round super featherweight clash.

These bouts will lead into a stacked pay-per-view lineup topped by undefeated three-division champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, plus David “El Monstro” Benavídez makes his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The pay-per-view will also see undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, Sampson Boxing, TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

The nephew of four-time world champion Brian Viloria, Viloria (5-0, 3 KOs) has impressed while making his own name in the sport since turning pro in 2023. The 19-year-old debuted in April of last year and picked up three consecutive knockout victories to begin his pro run. Most recently the Whittier, California native scored a unanimous decision over Erick Garcia Benitez in March. He’ll be opposed by the 30-year-old Contreras (15-8-2, 9 KOs), who will look to bounce back after consecutive decision defeats to top prospects Michael Angeletti and Bruce Carrington. A native of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, Contreras won seven of his first eight fights after turning pro in 2016 and put together a three-fight winning streak in 2022, before losing three contests by decision last year.

#         #         #

ABOUT DAVIS VS. MARTIN & BENAVIDEZ VS. GVOZDYK

Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk will see popular superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstro” Benavidez co-headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Headlining the show is the undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The pay-per-view will also see undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The MGM Grand Garden Arena hosted its premiere boxing event in January 1994 and, over its 30-year history, the venue has become synonymous with the sport’s biggest fight nights. Fight fans have watched champions ranging from George Foreman and Julio Cesar Chavez to Roy Jones and Shane Mosley step in the ring and put on a championship display of skill. Epic battles including Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Holyfield vs. Tyson II, Pacquiao vs. Marquez IV, multiple Barrera vs. Morales title fights, and Mayweather vs. Canelo, among others, led all boxers to want to fight at the legendary Grand Garden Arena. The June 15 event will mark a celebration of the venue’s storied history as boxing’s next chapter unfolds with these two high-stakes showdowns.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisMartin & #BenavidezGvozdyk, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LAS VEGAS – June 13, 2024 – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez and former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk went face to face at the final press conference on Thursday, before they meet for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title this Saturday, June 15 in a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video marking the 100^th championship fight night at the historic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Before Benavidez and Gvozdyk squared off, fighters featured on the stacked undercard previewed their respective matchups, including undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell and unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello, who meet for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, plus WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames and veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha, who duel in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Also at Thursday’s undercard press conference were fighters who will compete in PBC on Prime Video action preceding the pay-per-view. That lineup features undefeated middleweight Elijah Garcia and veteran contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis, who battle in a 10-round fight, former world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo and Mexican contender Eduardo Ramirez, who meet in a 10-round super featherweight attraction, and Mexico City’s Ricardo Salas, who opens the stream in a 10-round matchup against welterweight knockout artist Roiman Villa. The preliminary matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

The pay-per-view event is topped by boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis as he defends his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin. In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, Sampson Boxing, TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

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

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I’m looking to steal the show. There’s only two more days until ‘El Monstro’ comes out.

“Oleksandr Gvozdyk is a great fighter and we actually sparred when I was 21-years-old. Now I’m very happy that we can bring the fight to the people.

“Being at light heavyweight feels amazing. This is the easiest weight cut I’ve had in my life. My speed, strength and endurance are all gonna be better. I left no stone unturned for this training camp. I’m facing a great fighter and we’ve put together a great game plan. This is gonna be the David Benavidez night.

“This is the perfect time for me to move up. I’ve been at super middleweight for 10 years and naturally my body has gotten bigger. Now I wanna go after all the titles in this weight class and give the fans the best possible fights that I can.

“I’m going in there to be David Benavidez. ‘El Monstro’ is coming out. I go in there for the knockout every single time, and this won’t be any different.

“The better the competition gets, the better I get. That’s why I’ve never shied away from a big fight. When the lights get turned on, I always show up.

“We have two warriors going up against each other. We’ve had some great sparring sessions and I’m excited to be able to bring that to the people. 

“If it wasn’t for my team, I wouldn’t be where I am right now. Now that we’re here, this is a big card and I’m really excited for it.”

OLEKSANDR GVOZDYK

“For me it’s a big honor to be here and I’m really excited to be on this huge card. I see my face all around Las Vegas and it makes me excited to get into the ring.

“I’m going to resist ‘The Monster’. I’m in the best shape of my life and I’ll do anything to win this fight.

“I don’t expect any discounts from him. I’m facing him in his best shape. I’m excited to face the best version of David Benavidez.

“This is a great opportunity to face a tough fighter like David Benavidez. He’s representing boxing really well. We’re going to show everyone a great fight.

“I’m going to do what I do best. I’ll use my footwork, be consistent and try to time him. I’m going in there to do my job.

“I don’t really think there’s a big difference with David moving up in weight, because he’s already a big fighter. He was a huge super middleweight. I don’t see any size advantage for either of us. I know he’ll feel comfortable in this division.”

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“I’m coming to showcase my talent and I’m going to give everyone a ‘class A’ performance on Saturday night. Stay tuned and continue to follow me.

“We definitely work in camp on distributing our body weight in a certain way to generate power. Everyone has something that works for them, and the Russell family has ours. We have our own signature way of training.

“My father always told me to never magnify my opponent. Whether they’re a world class fighter or not, you go in there and you fight your fight. We’ve seen some footage of him and we’ve seen his flaws. It’s just about whether he’s gonna fix his flaws. I’m one of those opponents that will make him pay for his flaws.

“I’m not looking at him as a pushover or someone who’s gonna lay down for me. I’m coming in there to knock his head off his shoulders. I’m going to stay poised and give everyone an action packed fight.

“I’m looking to make a big statement. My job is to steal some spotlight from the main event. Somebody’s 0 has got to go, and I’m not looking for it to be mine.

“I’m looking to become undisputed. I wanna wipe out my division. He’s a stepping stone. I have to get past him first. I’m not looking too far ahead while I have something in front of me.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“This is going to be a new challenge in my career and I’m primed for it. This is the kind of challenge that I was eager to face. I’m going to give everyone a great fight.

“There’s no doubt that this is the most important fight of my career. Because it’s the kind of fight that’s gonna take me to another level. I’m very proud to be part of this card and I hope that we both bring the best out of each other.

“It’s doubly motivating to be on the same card as my countryman Carlos Adames. What would be better than us taking home two titles to the Dominican Republic?

“I’m glad that Gary is going to bring his best and that he’s eager to fight like I am. I’m not about to taste defeat. This time is my time.

“This fight could end at any time. People may underestimate my power, but my punches can sneak up on you and close this fight at any moment.”

CARLOS ADAMES

“I’m 100% ready. You’re going to see what I’m all about on Saturday night and I just can’t wait to show everybody.

“Carlos Adames is a different kind of fighter. I’m an unstoppable fighter. And I’m not about to let anybody even imagine that they can beat me.

“Gausha is an experienced fighter with a good career, but fighting against me is a whole new issue for him. He’s gonna find out.

“It’s not just about my power, it’s about my boxing IQ. I haven’t even had that much of a chance to show it at this level. I’m excited to get to showcase that IQ even more on Saturday night.

“This is going to be a total nightmare for Terrell. He’s going to wish I wasn’t in front of him. He doesn’t realize what he’s about to be up against.”

TERRELL GAUSHA

“I trained hard because this is a great opportunity. I’m ready to get it on and give everyone a good show. I know what I’m up against, and he better know what he’s up against. I’m coming to fight and win a world title.

“He really pissed me off when he said he was gonna knock me out early. I don’t think he’s taking me seriously enough. I’m here to fight and that’s not happening on Saturday. He fired me up.

“This is a great opportunity for me and I’m gonna go out there and take advantage of it. I’ve been training, working hard and preparing myself for this day.

“I’ve fought at the highest level my whole boxing career. Since the Olympics I’ve fought the top guys and never shied away from anyone. I’m always game in a fight and Saturday night I’m ready to take the victory.

“Saturday night ends with me becoming a world champion and realizing a lifelong dream of mine. I’m ready.”

ELIJAH GARCIA

“Kyrone sounds excited, and that’s good. I’m prepared to give the fans what they deserve. Hopefully he keeps that same energy up through the fight.

“Kyrone is very tough and it takes a lot to beat him. I got myself back into shape and I just had to stay sharp throughout this second camp.

“We’re blessed to have this second opportunity and we’re here to make the best of it and give the fans a great night.

“This is gonna be a great fight. I’m not going in there looking for the knockout. I’m just going to take it round by round and beat him like that.”

KYRONE DAVIS

“I’m happy to be here again and I can’t wait to get in the ring this time. We’re going to have a good fight. I know both of us are coming to win. When it’s time to rumble, I do what I love to do. I’ll take on any challenge.

“He’s talented and he’s gonna bring a lot of offense, and I’m gonna bring a lot, a lot, of fire. You’re gonna see on Saturday.

“I’m just having a good time and living my dream. What’s gonna happen in the ring is what was gonna happen in the ring on March 30. I was disappointed of course. Obviously I’m gonna have some kind of emotion when that happens. Now we’re here and it’ll be settled in the ring.

“This ends with Kyrone Davis as the winner. By any means necessary. No matter what happens, I’m ready. At the end of the day, I’m going to win.”

MARK MAGSAYO

“I’m here to represent the Philippines. I’m thankful for the opportunity and I’m excited to give my best in the ring.

“The Philippines vs. Mexico rivalry means a lot because of Manny Pacquiao and his great fights against Marquez, Barrera and Morales. I want to make boxing history as well for my country.

“This is going to be a great fight because I know that Eduardo Ramirez has been training hard for it. I’ve been training hard since December as well, so the fans are going to get a show.

“There’s going to be a knockout. I don’t know how long it’s going to go, I’m ready to go 10 rounds, but we’ll see how it goes.”

EDUARDO RAMIREZ

“I’m ready and I’ve prepared 100% for this matchup. I’m anxious for fight night to get here. I can’t wait to show everyone what I’m capable of.

“Magsayo is a great fighter and I know that it’s going to be exciting action. I’m going to do what I’ve prepared to do and I believe it will lead to great results on Saturday night.

“This is a world class rivalry where fans from both Mexico and the Philippines are always excited to see the matchup. I’m going to represent my country with pride and help Mexico come out on top again.”

RICARDO SALAS

“I’m very thankful to be on this stage for this great fight. I’ve trained very hard with Isaac Cruz and I’m looking forward to what will be a great fight.

“We’re prepared for whatever comes our way on Saturday. Whether it’s a quick fight or we go the distance, all that matters is that my hand is raised at the end.

“I come ready to fight. The winning streak that I have right now is largely because of the great team that I have with me. That team will help take me to victory on Saturday night.”

JOSE BENAVIDEZ SR., David’s Father & Trainer

“I’m so happy to be here in Las Vegas. We’re going to give the fans a great fight. We’re very proud to be part of this 100^th championship fight night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

“David had a great camp. We trained super hard in Miami in the heat and humidity. We’re ready to give the fans a great fight. Oleksandr is a tremendous fighter with only one loss. It’s gonna be a tough fight, but we prepared so well for it. I really believe David is gonna look spectacular.”

MARCO CONTRERAS, Gvozdyk’s Trainer

“I’m very thankful to the people who made this possible, especially David Benavidez for giving us the opportunity. Oleksandr is in the best shape of his life and he’s ready to give the fans a great fight.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“For the third straight time with Prime Video, we’ll have four title fights on our pay-per-view portion, and we’ve added a third fight to the stream on Prime Video preceding the pay-per-view. So make sure you’re in your seat or tuned in early. It’s a tremendous card and we can’t wait to see everyone on Saturday.”

SAMPSON LEWKOWICZ, Sampson Boxing

“The reason I started calling David Benavidez ‘El Bandera Roja’, or the red flag, is because when you go to the beach and see the red flag, it means don’t go into the water. If you go into the water, you lose.”

#         #         #

ABOUT DAVIS VS. MARTIN & BENAVIDEZ VS. GVOZDYK

Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk will see popular superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstro” Benavidez co-headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Headlining the show is the undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The pay-per-view will also see undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The MGM Grand Garden Arena hosted its premiere boxing event in January 1994 and, over its 30-year history, the venue has become synonymous with the sport’s biggest fight nights. Fight fans have watched champions ranging from George Foreman and Julio Cesar Chavez to Roy Jones and Shane Mosley step in the ring and put on a championship display of skill. Epic battles including Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Holyfield vs. Tyson II, Pacquiao vs. Marquez IV, multiple Barrera vs. Morales title fights, and Mayweather vs. Canelo, among others, led all boxers to want to fight at the legendary Grand Garden Arena. The June 15 event will mark a celebration of the venue’s storied history as boxing’s next chapter unfolds with these two high-stakes showdowns.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisMartin & #BenavidezGvozdyk, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LAS VEGAS – June 12, 2024 – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Monstro” Benavidez and former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk showed off their skills at an open to the public media workout on Wednesday, before they meet for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title this Saturday, June 15 in a PBC Pay-Per-View event marking the 100^th championship fight night at the historic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Also at Wednesday’s workout, boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis made an appearance in front of the fans in attendance before he defends his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin in the main event. 

The workout also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard, including undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell and unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello, who meet for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, plus WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames and veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha, who duel in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Rounding out the workout lineup was rising undefeated middleweight Elijah Garcia, who battles veteran contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a matchup that tops a three-fight PBC on Prime Video card beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and leading into the pay-per-view. The preliminary matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, Sampson Boxing, TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“It feels good to be back at MGM Grand and to be a part of something legendary like this. This is a great card and it’s just exciting to be here.

“I just want to go out there and give the fans a great show and put on a great performance Saturday night. It’s a great building at MGM and I want to give the fans something amazing to watch.

“When I come out and the people are cheering for me, it feels like we’re together. It’s like we’re family. It makes me want to put on a great performance for them.”

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“This means the world to me. This has been my dream since I was three-years-old. I’m going to have a lot of fun going out there and showcasing my talents for the fans.

“I feel stronger and faster at this weight class. I’m really excited to showcase it on Saturday night. I’m at another level now.

“I’m like a young veteran because I still have a lot of years left in me. This second half of my career is going to be the best part.”

OLEKSANDR GVOZDYK

“This is where I fought for my pro debut and I’m still here and fighting for a title against a tough opponent. What could be better? It’s exciting.

“I had a great camp. There’s no excuses. I’m definitely in one of the best conditions of my life. I’m ready to prove that I’m the best. 

“He’s going to apply pressure and throw multi-punch combinations. I’m expecting a hard fight and I have no doubt that I’ll handle it.”

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“It’s a blessing to have so much experience in my family and in my corner. It feels like I have a cheat code to the sport.

“I just want to show everybody excellence. We’re going to bring out our skillset. He’s going to make me bring more tools out of my arsenal. I’m going to make sure it’s an action fight and keep my knockout streak going.

“Being in this position tells me that I’m climbing the ladder to be one of the greats. We’re taking it one step at a time. My ultimate goal is to be the undisputed champion.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“I’m really excited to be here for a great night in front of great fans. I’m looking forward to an amazing night on Saturday. I know that we’re going to give the fans an exciting show.

“You can expect a great show, because the fans deserve it. I’m going to give my best and win. It’s going to be a hell of a fight.

“This is going to be an interesting clash of styles. Gary is a knockout artist and he’s going to try to do his thing and not let me box how I normally do. I’m going to use the ring and win the way that I know how to win.”

CARLOS ADAMES

“I have no equal and I have no rival in this division. Whoever wants to come after me, go ahead. I want to face them just as much as they want to face me. I don’t fear anyone.

“My conviction is what separates me from everybody in this division. They all know that I want to face them and that I’m not running from anyone.

“Gausha should be a strong opponent and I’m excited about it, because it’ll make for a great fight for the fans.”

TERRELL GAUSHA

“A win on Saturday means everything. I’m with the best team in the world and it’s a blessing to have this opportunity.

“We’ve done everything in the gym we had to. We’re ready. We’re steppers. That’s what we do. We step when it’s time to step.

“There are a lot of ups and downs in boxing and I’ve just stayed focused, stayed the course, stayed training, kept my head down and remained humble. Now I’m ready to get my title on Saturday night.

“Fans can expect me to leave everything in the ring and come out with that belt. Now is my time. I’m not worried about anything. I’m focused.”

ELIJAH GARCIA

“I feel good and I feel ready. I had more time to prepare and I know it’s gonna be a tough fight. We’re definitely ready.

“It’s a blessing to be on another big card. I trained hard and I feel like I earned it. I’m just taking it one step at a time.

“Hopefully by the end of the year I can call myself a world champion. That’s what I’m aiming for. Last year was great, but that’s in the past.”

#         #         #

ABOUT DAVIS VS. MARTIN & BENAVIDEZ VS. GVOZDYK

Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk will see popular superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstro” Benavidez co-headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Headlining the show is the undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The pay-per-view will also see undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The MGM Grand Garden Arena hosted its premiere boxing event in January 1994 and, over its 30-year history, the venue has become synonymous with the sport’s biggest fight nights. Fight fans have watched champions ranging from George Foreman and Julio Cesar Chavez to Roy Jones and Shane Mosley step in the ring and put on a championship display of skill. Epic battles including Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Holyfield vs. Tyson II, Pacquiao vs. Marquez IV, multiple Barrera vs. Morales title fights, and Mayweather vs. Canelo, among others, led all boxers to want to fight at the legendary Grand Garden Arena. The June 15 event will mark a celebration of the venue’s storied history as boxing’s next chapter unfolds with these two high-stakes showdowns.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisMartin & #BenavidezGvozdyk, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

By Norm Frauenheim –

LAS VEGAS – If David Benavidez beats Oleksandr Gvozdyk Saturday night at the MGM Grand, he’ll have a decision to make.

A Benavidez victory would make him the World Boxing Council’s mandatory light-heavyweight challenger for the winner of the Artur Beterbiev-Dmitry Bivol fight, re-scheduled for October 12.

He is already the WBC’s super-middleweight mandatory challenger to Canelo Alvarez’ undisputed title.

If Benavidez, a solid favorite, beats Gvozdyk in his 175-pound debut on Amazon Prime, he is expected to choose one or the other immediately after the fight, Benavidez promoter Sampson Lewkowicz confirmed Wednesday before a news conference featuring the main event, Tank Davis-versus-Frank Martin

Benavidez, a Phoenix fighter now living in Miami, would have 10 days to decide, according to a deadline imposed by the WBC.

Benavidez, who has said he is moving past all the talk about a showdown with Canelo, still talked about the Mexican pay-per-view star after he arrived in Vegas Tuesday.

He still believes the fight can happen.

Still, believes he can beat Canelo, too.

“in my heart, it’s going to happen,” Benavidez (28-0, 24 KOs) said. “When? I don’t know.

“But we’re 100 percent ready to get that fight and get that victory as well. I’m ready to fight whoever and beat whoever.’’

This week, that means Gvozdyk (20-1, 16 KOs), a whoever who held the WBC’s light-heavyweight belt from 2018 to 2019.

LAS VEGAS – June 11, 2024 – Fighters competing on the stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video made their grand arrivals in Las Vegas Tuesday afternoon as they prepare to enter the ring this Saturday, June 15 in the 100^th championship fight night to take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The card is co-headlined by a pair of matchups featuring two of boxing’s most dynamic stars,  as undefeated three-division champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defends his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while David “El Monstro” Benavidez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The grand arrivals also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard, including undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell and unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello, who meet for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, plus WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames and veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha, who duel in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, Sampson Boxing, TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

Here is what Benavidez, Martin, Gvozdyk and Davis’ trainer Calvin Ford had to say Tuesday from MGM Grand:

DAVID BENAVIDEZ

“I’m really thankful for everyone who came out to support, this fight is for you. We’ve worked extremely hard and we’re going for the knockout this Saturday.

“My plan is to conquer the light heavyweight and super middleweight divisions. Whoever comes to the plate, they can get it. I’m ready to fight whoever and beat whoever.

“I have a lot to prove to the world. I really want to be the best of my generation and until I am, I’m going to keep working hard.”

FRANK MARTIN

“I’m feeling great. I’m locked in and I’m focused. The goal is to go in there and beat Gervonta Davis. I’m here to take his spot. I’m here for a reason. I’m here to take over.

“I’m different. I got speed, power, IQ, and really I have it all. You’re going to see. When it’s time to bite down, the world is gonna see.

“Sparring is just sparring, we have this fight Saturday and I’m gonna whoop his ass. We have Saturday to show who’s who.”

OLEKSANDR GVOZDYK

“I have a lot of experience and I have something to show him. It’s going to be an exciting fight that you don’t want to miss.

“Even though he’s moving up in weight, he’s still a big guy. So I’m not thinking about that. I’m expecting him to be in the best shape of his career, just like I am.”

CALVIN FORD, Gervonta Davis’ Trainer

“We’re back in business. We’ve been waiting for this for a while, so we’re really excited to put on a great performance for the fans. That’s who we do it for.

“Watching ‘Tank’ in camp, it scares me how great he looks. He’s really showed maturity in the ring. He’s extremely focused. I want people to leave the arena saying how great this fight was.”

#         #         #

ABOUT DAVIS VS. MARTIN & BENAVIDEZ VS. GVOZDYK

Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk will see popular superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstro” Benavidez co-headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Headlining the show is the undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The pay-per-view will also see undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The MGM Grand Garden Arena hosted its premiere boxing event in January 1994 and, over its 30-year history, the venue has become synonymous with the sport’s biggest fight nights. Fight fans have watched champions ranging from George Foreman and Julio Cesar Chavez to Roy Jones and Shane Mosley step in the ring and put on a championship display of skill. Epic battles including Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Holyfield vs. Tyson II, Pacquiao vs. Marquez IV, multiple Barrera vs. Morales title fights, and Mayweather vs. Canelo, among others, led all boxers to want to fight at the legendary Grand Garden Arena. The June 15 event will mark a celebration of the venue’s storied history as boxing’s next chapter unfolds with these two high-stakes showdowns.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisMartin & #BenavidezGvozdyk, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

Legendary boxing journalist Jim Lampley returns to PPV.COM (which does not require a subscription) to co-host his popular and exclusive viewer chat, in real time, on PPV.COM‘s crystal-clear HD live stream of the upcoming boxing event headlined by undefeated superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstruo” Benavidez in separate title fights, this Saturday, June 15, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.  A three-division world champion, Davis (29-0, 27 KOs), from Baltimore, Maryland, will defend his WBA lightweight world title against the WBA’s no. 2 world-rated contender Frank Martin (18-0, 12 KOs), from Indianapolis, Indiana.  Fresh from a brutal stoppage victory of previously undefeated former two-division world champion Demetrius Andrade,  Benavidez (28-0, 24 KOs), from Las Vegas, Nevada, will move up in weight to challenge former WBC light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk (20-1, 16 KOs), who fights out of Oxnard, California.  They will be battling for the vacant interim WBC light heavyweight title.  Priced at $74.99, the stacked four-bout pay-per-view event will emanate from The MGM Grand Garden Arena, which will be hosting its 100th championship boxing event.  The Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk world championship event can be ordered by clicking here PPV.COM: Davis-Martin/Benavidez-Gvozdyk

JIM LAMPLEY’S PREVIEW ANALYSIS

David Benavidez vs Oleksandr Gvozdyk:  “Coming off the level of violent destruction he produced against proven defender Demetrius Andrade, Benavidez now seeks to keep building the buzz by dismantling Oleksandr Gvozdyk’s long jab and counterpunching.  Logic says if it is a boxing match, that favors the Ukrainian and if it is a war, that favors the Mexican-American star.  Gvozdyk is an experienced ring thinker, and Benavidez freely admits Gvozdyk gave him some trouble when they sparred a couple of years ago, but there are some gifted power punchers against whom there isn’t enough time to think, and Benavidez is building a compelling case that he is that kind of puncher.  Late Benavidez KO in a very good fight.”

Gervonta Davis vs Frank Martin:  “Martin trained in Derrick James’ camp during the last few weeks of Ryan Garcia’s preparation for Devin Haney.  Tank Davis’ body shot KO’d Garcia in his last previous ring appearance back in January 2023.  Since then, Davis has been stalled by legal obstacles he caused with a hit-and-run accident in February 2023, after which he violated a sentence instruction and wound up in jail.  Now he approaches an opportunity, if he can beat Martin and set up a huge money rematch with Garcia, in which he would likely be favored.  Davis is a rarity, a highly selective power counter puncher with nuanced defensive skills.  With effective personal self-discipline, he could follow in Floyd Mayweather’s footsteps and become pound for pound number one.  So Tank Davis climbs the list if he can follow form and outpunch Frank Martin.  If he does, the focus swings back to matchmaking.  In this fight, Davis by unanimous decision.”

Joining Jim on the viewer chat will be award-winning boxing journalist Lance Pugmire and popular podcast host Dan Canobbio.  Jim, Lance, and Dan, along with former WBO junior welterweight world champion Chis Algieri will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.COM‘s website and social platforms, like Lampley’s interview with Davis after the announcement press conference:  Gervonta “Tank” Davis sits down with PPV.COM’s Jim Lampley ahead of Tank vs. Martin. – YouTube

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk for $74.99 in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including: Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

LANCE PUGMIRE

Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the Boxing Writers Association of America’s highest honor.  He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and The Athletic.  Lance currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.com.

DAN CANOBBIO AND CHRIS ALGIERI

Danand Chris have moved their popular Inside Boxing Livepodcast to PPV.COM, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click hereInside Boxing Live – YouTube. 

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turnkey PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.

Legendary boxing journalist Jim Lampley returns to PPV.COM (which does not require a subscription) to co-host his popular and exclusive viewer chat, in real time, on PPV.COM‘s crystal-clear HD live stream of the upcoming boxing event headlined by undefeated superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstruo” Benavidez in separate title fights, next Saturday, June 15, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.  A three-division world champion, Davis (29-0, 27 KOs), from Baltimore, Maryland, will defend his WBA lightweight world title against the WBA’s no. 2 world-rated contender Frank Martin (18-0, 12 KOs), from Indianapolis, Indiana.  Fresh from a brutal stoppage victory of previously undefeated former two-division world champion Demetrius Andrade,  Benavidez (28-0, 24 KOs), from Las Vegas, Nevada, will move up in weight to challenge former WBC light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk (20-1, 16 KOs), who fights out of Oxnard, California.  They will be battling for the vacant interim WBC light heavyweight title.  Priced at $74.99, the stacked four-bout pay-per-view event will emanate from The MGM Grand Garden Arena, which will be hosting its 100th championship boxing event.  The Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk world championship event can be ordered by clicking here PPV.COM: Davis-Martin/Benavidez-Gvozdyk

JIM LAMPLEY’S PREVIEW ANALYSIS

David Benavidez vs Oleksandr Gvozdyk:  “Coming off the level of violent destruction he produced against proven defender Demetrius Andrade, Benavidez now seeks to keep building the buzz by dismantling Oleksandr Gvozdyk’s long jab and counterpunching.  Logic says if it is a boxing match, that favors the Ukrainian and if it is a war, that favors the Mexican-American star.  Gvozdyk is an experienced ring thinker, and Benavidez freely admits Gvozdyk gave him some trouble when they sparred a couple of years ago, but there are some gifted power punchers against whom there isn’t enough time to think, and Benavidez is building a compelling case that he is that kind of puncher.  Late Benavidez KO in a very good fight.”

Gervonta Davis vs Frank Martin:  “Martin trained in Derrick James’ camp during the last few weeks of Ryan Garcia’s preparation for Devin Haney.  Tank Davis’ body shot KO’d Garcia in his last previous ring appearance back in January 2023.  Since then, Davis has been stalled by legal obstacles he caused with a hit-and-run accident in February 2023, after which he violated a sentence instruction and wound up in jail.  Now he approaches an opportunity, if he can beat Martin and set up a huge money rematch with Garcia, in which he would likely be favored.  Davis is a rarity, a highly selective power counter puncher with nuanced defensive skills.  With effective personal self-discipline, he could follow in Floyd Mayweather’s footsteps and become pound for pound number one.  So Tank Davis climbs the list if he can follow form and outpunch Frank Martin.  If he does, the focus swings back to matchmaking.  In this fight, Davis by unanimous decision.”

Joining Jim on the viewer chat will be award-winning boxing journalist Lance Pugmire and popular podcast host Dan Canobbio.  Jim, Lance, and Dan, along with former WBO junior welterweight world champion Chis Algieri will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.COM‘s website and social platforms, like Lampley’s interview with Davis after the announcement press conference:  Gervonta “Tank” Davis sits down with PPV.COM’s Jim Lampley ahead of Tank vs. Martin. – YouTube

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk for $74.99 in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including: Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

LANCE PUGMIRE

Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the Boxing Writers Association of America’s highest honor.  He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and The Athletic.  Lance currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.com.

DAN CANOBBIO AND CHRIS ALGIERI

Danand Chris have moved their popular Inside Boxing Livepodcast to PPV.COM, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click hereInside Boxing Live – YouTube. 

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turnkey PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.

LAS VEGAS – June 7, 2024 – Unbeaten top lightweight contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, undefeated former world champion Alberto Puello and WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames held a media workout in Las Vegas on Friday ahead of their respective showdowns on Saturday, June 15 in a PBC Pay-Per-View Event on Prime Video in the 100^th championship fight night to take place at the historic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Martin will challenge boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis for Davis’ WBA Lightweight World Championship in the main event, while Puello duels fellow unbeaten Gary Antuanne Russell in a super lightweight clash, and Adames defends his WBC Middleweight World Championship against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. In the co-main event, undefeated two-time world champion David “El Monstro” Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, Sampson Boxing, TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Friday from the Pound 4 Pound Gym in Las Vegas:

FRANK MARTIN

“I feel like this is one of those moments where all the hard work I put in is paying off. With all the work I’ve been putting in leading up to the fight, and all the work I’ve put in over the years, this just feels like a life changing moment. This is my time to come out on top.

“I just need to be composed, be calm and be who I am. I can’t let any of the antics or crowd or the noise get in the way of me getting the victory.

“I feel like this is gonna be a good fight. We all know what ‘Tank’ brings, but a lot of guys don’t know what I bring. They know a little bit of it, but they don’t know the full arsenal I have.

“We know ‘Tank’ is explosive and fast. He’s got it all, but on fight night, the world will see that I’ve got it all too. So it’s gonna be two dogs in there locking up like pitbulls. The best man will win that night.

“I believe in myself, even if the world is against me. I know the work that I put in. I feel like I was born to do this. I feel it in my body. It’s just time for me to show up and show out.

“I expect Gervonta to come out and put his best foot forward. He’s gonna be him. I know he’s all the way locked in for me. I know he felt the energy from me and he knows I’m coming to win.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“I feel really strong. It’s been a great training camp. I’m extremely ready to take advantage of this great opportunity that I have. I’m thankful to my team for putting me in this position and I’m going to show why I deserve to be here.

“Gary Antuanne Russell is a great fighter and someone who packs a lot of power. He doesn’t have many weaknesses, but I do believe that I’ve found his. I’m going to expose it and look for more when we’re in the ring.

“I’m very comfortable fighting against another southpaw. I’ve sparred against nothing but southpaws, so I couldn’t be more prepared.

“There’s nothing better than fighting on a card like this, with my eyes set on showing that I’m ready to earn another world championship. I’m representing my country of the Dominican Republic and I promise my fans that it will be a great show and that I’m going to win.”

CARLOS ADAMES

“I’ve always had that championship mentality, so nothing has changed for me now that I am the world champion. It’s just a matter of continuing to use that approach going forward.

“Gausha is an accomplished fighter who’s faced a lot of great opponents, but he’s never been in the ring with Carlos Adames. He’s going to realize what that’s like on June 15.

“I’ve gone to another level in sparring in training camp. Throughout camp I’ve felt myself exceed all of the people I spar. That’s how I know that I’m ready for this fight.

“At the level of conditioning that I’m at right now, I couldn’t feel any better. I’m sharp and I’m ready to defend my title in tremendous fashion next Saturday night.”

#         #         #

ABOUT DAVIS VS. MARTIN & BENAVIDEZ VS. GVOZDYK

Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk will see popular superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstro” Benavidez co-headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Headlining the show is the undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The pay-per-view will also see undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The MGM Grand Garden Arena hosted its premiere boxing event in January 1994 and, over its 30-year history, the venue has become synonymous with the sport’s biggest fight nights. Fight fans have watched champions ranging from George Foreman and Julio Cesar Chavez to Roy Jones and Shane Mosley step in the ring and put on a championship display of skill. Epic battles including Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Holyfield vs. Tyson II, Pacquiao vs. Marquez IV, multiple Barrera vs. Morales title fights, and Mayweather vs. Canelo, among others, led all boxers to want to fight at the legendary Grand Garden Arena. The June 15 event will mark a celebration of the venue’s storied history as boxing’s next chapter unfolds with these two high-stakes showdowns.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisMartin & #BenavidezGvozdyk, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LAS VEGAS – June 7, 2024 – Three exciting showdowns featuring top contenders, former champions and more will highlight PBC on Prime Video action Saturday, June 15 leading up to the Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk PBC Pay-Per-View Event on Prime Video marking the 100^th championship fight night to take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. These three preliminary matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

The live streaming presentation will be topped by rising middleweight Elijah García taking on contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 10-round attraction and also features former world champion Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo facing Mexican contender Eduardo Ramirez in a 10-round super featherweight clash. Opening up the stream at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT is hard-hitting welterweight Roiman Villa battling Mexico’s Ricardo Salas in a 10-round fight.

These bouts will lead into a stacked pay-per-view lineup topped by undefeated three-division champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, plus David “El Monstro” Benavidez makes his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The pay-per-view will also see undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, Sampson Boxing, TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

“Once again fans tuning into Prime Video will be treated to a jam-packed lineup of action fights leading into the Saturday, June 15 PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Topping the show is the sensational and fast-rising middleweight Elijah Garcia, who can test his championship mettle against the always tough Kyrone Davis. Adding in the Magsayo vs. Ramirez and Villa vs. Salas bouts promises power-punching and drama throughout these prelims.”

**ELIJAH GARCIA VS. KYRONE DAVIS**

Looking to stamp his 160-pound contender status after a huge 2023 campaign, the 21-year-old Elijah García will return for a 10-round showdown against tough middleweight contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis, who can make his own name at middleweight with a signature victory on June 15. Garcia and Davis were originally set to clash in March before Garcia was forced to withdraw on the morning of the weigh-in due to illness. 

Fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, García (16-0, 13 KOs) earned three impressive victories in 2023, kicking off his year last March with a knockout of the previously unbeaten Amilcar Vidal. He followed that up with a pair of performances on the undercards of two of the biggest events of the year, first defeating Kevin Salgado on the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia pay-per-view in April before knocking out Armando Resendiz on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo pay-per-view in September. The precocious García has moved fast since turning pro in 2020 and has knocked out seven of his last nine opponents.

“I’m excited to be back in the ring for another big event,” said García. “Fighting on these major events is an incredible blessing and I plan on delivering another great performance. Kyrone Davis has been in the ring with some very good fighters, and it will be a challenging fight, but my plan is to get the win by any means necessary. I’m really happy we were able to reschedule the fight, because fans are going to see an incredible night of boxing on June 15 and everyone should be tuning in.”

The 29-year-old Davis (18-3-1, 6 KOs) picked up two victories in 2023, dominating Cristian Fabian Rios in January before scoring a unanimous decision over Cruse Stewart in December. Those victories came after a run that saw Davis battle two-time champion Anthony Dirrell to a draw in February 2021, before stepping in as a late replacement two fights later to drop a hard-fought contest against super middleweight superstar David Benavidez. An amateur standout representing Wilmington, Delaware, Davis trains in Philadelphia under the tutelage of top trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.

“Training has been going exactly how we need it to,” said Davis. “I expect an entertaining and high action fight once we actually get in the ring. Winning is the only result I’m settling for. I’m preparing to leave it all in the ring.”

**MARK MAGSAYO VS. EDUARDO RAMIREZ**

In a 10-round super featherweight set to yield a top contender in the 130-pound division, the Filipino power-puncher Mark “Magnifico” Magsayo will take on the longtime contender and Mexican brawler Eduardo Ramirez in a toe-to-toe clash.

A former featherweight world champion, Magsayo (25-2, 17 KOs) captured the WBC 126-pound world title in 2022 by defeating former longtime reigning champion Gary Russell Jr. via decision. Originally from Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines and now fighting out of Southern California, Magsayo would go on to drop the title to Rey Vargas via a narrow split-decision, in a July 2022 contest that saw Magsayo send Vargas to the canvas in round nine. Magsayo would go on to engage in a memorable toe-to-toe battle with former champion Brandon Figueroa in March 2023, losing the decision after 12 rounds. Most recently, the 28-year-old debuted at 130 pounds with a third-round knockout of Isaac Avelar last December.

“I want to show everybody that I feel strong at 130 pounds and that I’m ready to become a two-division world champion,” said Magsayo. “Eduardo Ramirez is a tough fighter and we’re going to give the fans an action packed fight, just like always. Make sure you come out or tune-in to this fight, because I’m ready to show everybody what I can do and give everyone a great show.”

Fighting out of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Ramirez (28-3-3, 13 KOs) is an established super featherweight and featherweight contender through a career that’s seen him take down contenders including Luis Melendez, Miguel Marriaga, Miguel Flores, Leduan Barthelemy and Brayan De Gracia. The 31-year-old moved up to lightweight in 2022, dropping a showdown with now 140-pound world champion Isaac Cruz. In his last outing, Ramirez returned to stop Sebastian Diaz Maldonado in the sixth round of their August 2023 duel.

“My opponent and I are both very hungry to get this win and show that we’re still some of the best fighters in the division,” said Ramirez. “Each of us knows how important this fight is, and that will make it an exciting fight for the fans. I’m going to use this victory to springboard into a world title fight.”

**ROIMAN VILLA VS. RICARDO SALAS**

One of the hardest punchers in the welterweight division, Roiman Villa will step back into action after going toe-to-toe with welterweight champion Jaron Ennis in his last bout, as he competes in a 10-round welterweight attraction against the young and hungry Ricardo Salas, who’s trained by Isaac Cruz Sr., the father and trainer of WBA 140-Pound World Champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz.

A native of Rosario, Venezuela, Villa (26-2, 24 KOs) gave Ennis perhaps the toughest fight of the unbeaten fighter’s career last July before losing the bout in round 10. Previously, Villa had delivered one of 2023’s biggest upsets in January by earning a majority decision victory over the then-undefeated top contender Rashidi Ellis. In an exciting action bout, Villa broke through in the 12^th and final round as he dropped Ellis twice to clinch the career-changing win. The 31-year-old made a memorable U.S. debut in September 2022 as he dropped the previously unbeaten Janelson Bocachica on his way to a unanimous decision. The only other blemish on his resume came via a 2019 split-decision in Mexico against Marcos Vilasana.

“I’m very happy to be returning to the ring and I’m ready to chase my dream of becoming world champion,” said Villa. “This is a great opportunity and I want to thank my team for putting me in this position. I learned a lot in my last fight and I’m looking forward to showing off my new skills on June 15.”

The 25-year-old Salas (19-2-2, 14 KOs) is unbeaten in his last five outings, with three KO victories and two draws. A native of Mexico City who trains alongside Mexican star Isaac Cruz, he’ll be making his U.S. debut on June 15 looking to make a big splash to open up the live streaming lineup. Salas however has experience fighting outside of his home country, having won fights in Canada and Jamaica. A pro since 2016, both of Salas’ defeats came via split decision.

“Ever since I started boxing, my goal was to fight in the U.S. and in Las Vegas like my idol Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. did,” said Salas. “Now both of those goals are being achieved in the same night, and I can’t wait. I’m going to make sure that everyone knows my name after this fight. I’m thankful to my whole team and I’m extremely motivated and excited to step into the ring.”

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. MARTIN & BENAVIDEZ VS. GVOZDYK

Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk will see popular superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstro” Benavidez co-headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Headlining the show is the undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The pay-per-view will also see undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The MGM Grand Garden Arena hosted its premiere boxing event in January 1994 and, over its 30-year history, the venue has become synonymous with the sport’s biggest fight nights. Fight fans have watched champions ranging from George Foreman and Julio Cesar Chavez to Roy Jones and Shane Mosley step in the ring and put on a championship display of skill. Epic battles including Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Holyfield vs. Tyson II, Pacquiao vs. Marquez IV, multiple Barrera vs. Morales title fights, and Mayweather vs. Canelo, among others, led all boxers to want to fight at the legendary Grand Garden Arena. The June 15 event will mark a celebration of the venue’s storied history as boxing’s next chapter unfolds with these two high-stakes showdowns.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisMartin & #BenavidezGvozdyk, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

NEW YORK (June 5, 2024) — PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, returns to the ring  when it live streams to boxing fans, in the U.S. and Canada, the summer’s most exciting boxing card on U.S. soil, featuring undefeated superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstruo” Benavidez in separate title fights.  A three-division world champion, Davis (29-0, 27 KOs), from Baltimore, Maryland, will defend his WBA lightweight world title against the WBA’s no. 2 world-rated contender Frank Martin (18-0, 12 KOs), from Indianapolis, Indiana.  Fresh from a brutal stoppage victory of previously undefeated former two-division world champion Demetrius Andrade,  Benavidez (28-0, 24 KOs), from Las Vegas, Nevada, will move up in weight to challenge former WBC light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk (20-1, 16 KOs), who fights out of Oxnard, California.  They will be battling for the vacant interim WBC light heavyweight title.  The stacked four-bout pay-per-view event will take place next Saturday, June 15, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, emanating from The MGM Grand Garden Arena, which will be hosting its 100th championship boxing event.  Priced at $74.99, the Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk world championship event can be ordered by clicking here PPV.COM: Davis-Martin/Benavidez-Gvozdyk

“June 15 will provide further evidence of whether Tank Davis ranks among the top five pound for pound, and if so, how close to the top??  It’s also an opportunity for David Benavidez to establish a meaningful 175-pound marker against a battle-tested opponent with a noteworthy background as both an amateur and a professional.  A stunning upset in either fight would mark a new identity threshold for Frank Martin or Oleksandr Gvozdyk.  We’ll be there to identify the bottom line,” said Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley, who will be co-hosting the exclusive viewer chat, in real time, during the PPV.COM Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk world championship event live stream. 

Joining Jim on the viewer chat will be award-winning boxing journalist Lance Pugmire and popular podcast host Dan Canobbio.  Jim, Lance, and Dan, along with former WBO junior welterweight world champion Chis Algieri will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.COM‘s website and social platforms, like Lampley’s interview with Davis after the announcement press conference:  Gervonta “Tank” Davis sits down with PPV.COM’s Jim Lampley ahead of Tank vs. Martin. – YouTube

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Davis vs. Martin / Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk for $74.99 in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including: Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

LANCE PUGMIRE

Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the Boxing Writers Association of America’s highest honor.  He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, and The Athletic.  Lance currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.com.

DAN CANOBBIO AND CHRIS ALGIERI

Danand Chris have moved their popular Inside Boxing Livepodcast to PPV.COM, where they produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click hereInside Boxing Live – YouTube. 

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turnkey PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.

LAS VEGAS – May 23, 2024 – Fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard for the much anticipated PBC Pay-Per-View event headlined by the Gervonta Davis vs. Frank Martin and David Benavidez vs. Oleksandr Gvozdyk title showdowns previewed their respective matchups during a virtual press conference Thursday before they step into the ring on Saturday, June 15 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Featured during the virtual presser were undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell and unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello, who meet for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, plus WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames and veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha, who duel in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Headlining the stacked lineup is undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, plus Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, Sampson Boxing, TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“I want to bring boxing back to its natural state. I want to climb the ladder and fight who I’m supposed to. I want to fight the guys with great credentials. We’re going to keep working toward the top.

“Puello is another opponent who’s in the way. There’s a lot of opponents and they’re all in the way. We’re on a mission and I plan to execute.

“My focus is so locked in right now. It’s hard for me to say he’s got a chance, not to be disrespectful. My father always said there’s three types of fighters: those who need it, those who want it and those who like it. And they all bring a different level of hunger. I’m all three of them, but instead of liking it, I love it.

“I love the bright lights. It’s part of my life. It’s really second nature. This is my world now. At this point, I just want to excel.

“I know my dad would tell me to hit and not get hit, keep your hands high, don’t relax. Right now he’s here in spirit, and I will spontaneously hear certain things that he’ll say to me. I want to honor his name and make sure that all he worked for does not go in vain.”

ALBERTO PUELLO

“I’m thrilled to be back on such a tremendous card on June 15. I’m going to give the best of myself in the ring like I always do, and give the fans what they deserve, which is a great fight.

“Gary is a good fighter, but he’s not the one who’s gonna stop my momentum. I’m going in there to get the win.

“I know this is not going to be an easy fight. But I possess all the tools needed to stop Gary or any opponent in front of me.

“I have to follow the game plan. I’m working hard every day, having great sparring sessions and getting ready to be at my best on June 15.

“’The Wasp’ is coming back to sting like never before. I’m ready to make a statement and prove that I’m at the top of this division.

“This fight could definitely steal the show. This opponent is a tough nut to crack, but I know that we’re going to give the fans an unforgettable fight.”

CARLOS ADAMES

“I’m very excited to be stepping into the ring once again. It’s been a while since I’ve been in the ring, but I’ve been in the gym for a long time getting into the best shape possible mentally and physically.

“I want to make a really big statement. Not just for me, but for my supporters. I owe it to everyone who helped me get here. I made a commitment to be on top and I like to keep my promises.

“I’m not concerned about Gausha’s resume or who he’s fought, because I’m the best fighter he’s gonna face. I’m the best fighter in the 160-pound division, so he better be ready for what he’s coming up against. I’m not underestimating anyone, but I’m not worried about his experience.

“June 15 is going to be full of spectacle and fireworks, because I’m relentless in the ring. My opponents know everything is on the line when they step in against me. I’m definitely going to show I’m the best middleweight in the world.

“Gausha has the reputation of a guy who’s hard to knock down, but he hasn’t felt my power yet. I’ll tip my hat to him if he can go the distance. Either way, I’m not focusing on the knockout. I’m making sure I’m ready for anything that happens in the ring.  

“I was truly happy to be elevated to world champion on my birthday. That news was just the cherry on top of my birthday. What I really wanted was for Jermall Charlo to fight me, but he made his choice.”

TERRELL GAUSHA

“I’m very confident and blessed to be in this position. I’m one of the type of guys that you can’t just run over. I’m the easiest person to make a fight with, because I don’t fear anybody.  

“Carlos Adames is a very solid fighter who brings a lot to the table. Everyone has holes and I’ve been watching him since I moved up to middleweight. I know he brings the action and I’ve been preparing for a fight like this.

“I’m more comfortable now at middleweight. I can just focus on training, because I’m already on weight. I don’t make any excuses, but getting down to 154 put more wear and tear on my body.

“I fight the best. That’s what I do. We’ll see come June 15 who the best is. Styles make fights. I don’t fear him and he doesn’t fear me. That’s gonna make it an exciting fight for the fans.

“I’m just ready to get what’s mine. I’m here for a reason. I don’t take this opportunity lightly. There’s no pressure for me. I’m just looking to go put on a great show.

“I feel confident coming into this fight. We’re putting the work in. I never cut corners and I’m a true professional. I’m coming to get the win. I have a great team behind me and we’re prepared for sure.”

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. MARTIN & BENAVIDEZ VS. GVOZDYK

Davis vs. Martin and Benavidez vs. Gvozdyk will see popular superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstruo” Benavídez co-headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Headlining the show is the undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The pay-per-view will also see undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The MGM Grand Garden Arena hosted its premiere boxing event in January 1994 and, over its 30-year history, the venue has become synonymous with the sport’s biggest fight nights. Fight fans have watched champions ranging from George Foreman and Julio Cesar Chavez to Roy Jones and Shane Mosley step in the ring and put on a championship display of skill. Epic battles including Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Holyfield vs. Tyson II, Pacquiao vs. Marquez IV, multiple Barrera vs. Morales title fights, and Mayweather vs. Canelo, among others, led all boxers to want to fight at the legendary Grand Garden Arena. The June 15 event will mark a celebration of the venue’s storied history as boxing’s next chapter unfolds with these two high-stakes showdowns.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisMartin & #BenavidezGvozdyk, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LAS VEGAS – May 20, 2024 – A pair of title showdowns will round out a stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video co-headlined by separate showdowns featuring popular superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and David “El Monstruo” Benavídez taking place Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. A jam-packed four-bout pay-per-view lineup will highlight the historic 100^th championship fight night at the popular sports and entertainment venue.

Undefeated rising star Gary Antuanne Russell will take on unbeaten former world champion Alberto Puello for the vacant Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title, while WBC Middleweight World Champion Carlos Adames battles veteran contender and U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Headlining the show is the undefeated three-division champion Davis defending his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, Sampson Boxing, TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

“June 15 will deliver a lineup truly stacked with the best talent in the sport from start to finish,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Already featuring Gervonta Davis and David Benavídez in intriguing showdowns, the card will also include the powerful Gary Antuanne Russell, as he makes his claim as the future of the 140-pound division against an undefeated Alberto Puello, while Carlos Adames can stake out his spot as the world’s top middleweight with another victory, this time against the always tough Terrell Gausha. This monumental display of talent is truly worthy of the 100^th championship fight night at the historic MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.”

**GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL VS. ALBERTO PUELLO**

The pay-per-view lineup will feature Gary Antuanne Russell, the latest star in the fighting Russell family’s dynasty, as he steps in for a 12-round showdown against former world champion Alberto Puello. The 140-pound clash will be contested for the Interim WBC Super Lightweight Title.

Fighting out of his native Capitol Heights, Md., Russell (17-0, 17 KOs) will carry on the legacy left by his late father Gary Sr. A member of one of the sport’s preeminent fighting families, Russell trains alongside his older brothers, former WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and bantamweight contender Gary Antonio. The 27-year-old has yet to allow an opponent to make it to the final bell since turning pro in 2017 following his run representing the U.S. at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics. Russell defeated his most accomplished foes to date in 2022, stopping former champion Viktor Postol in February before a TKO win against former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in July. Most recently, he blasted out the previously undefeated Kent Cruz in one round last August.

“Being at the top is only meant for one person, but the journey is always meant to have an audience,” said Russell. “Make sure you watch this pay-per-view on June 15, because everyone knows what I bring when fight night comes.”

Puello (22-0, 10 KOs) returned to action last December, his first bout since winning his world title, as he scored a unanimous decision victory over the previously unbeaten Ector Madera. Puello captured the WBA Super Lightweight World Championship with a victory over Batyr Akhmedov in August of 2022. A native of San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic, Puello now resides and trains in Las Vegas. Puello first shot up the rankings in July 2019, when he bested the previously unbeaten Jonathan Alonso via unanimous decision to capture an interim title. The 29-year-old also owns a unanimous decision triumph over VeShawn Owens in his U.S. debut that came in July 2021.

“It’s a great honor to be fighting on this platform on June 15,” said Puello. “I’ve been waiting patiently for a fight like this and now is the time to show the world that I’m worthy of the opportunity. Gary Antuanne Russell is exactly the type of opponent I want right now, because I know what a victory will do for my career. There’s a belt on the line and I’m coming to win it by any means necessary.”

**CARLOS ADAMES VS. TERRELL GAUSHA**

Recently elevated after making two defenses of his interim belt, Carlos Adames will step in to make the first defense of his WBC Middleweight World Championship when he faces the former world title challenger Terrell Gausha in a matchup that kicks off pay-per-view action.

Adames (23-1, 18 KOs) has become a force in the middleweight division as he looks to establish himself as number one in the historic weight class. The 30-year-old’s last outing saw him earn a ninth-round TKO of former unified world champion Julian Williams in their June 2023 clash. Prior to that triumph, Adames bested top contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko in December 2021 and followed that up by knocking out Juan Macias Montiel in the third round to capture his interim belt in October 2022. Adames was born in Comendador, Dominican Republic, lives in Washington Heights, New York and trains in Las Vegas. He established himself as a contender with a slew of victories over the likes of former champion Carlos Molina, Frank Galarza, Joshua Conley and Alejandro Barrera, with his only defeat coming by narrow decision in a 2019 154-pound title fight against Patrick Teixeira.

“I’m very excited to be back fighting in Las Vegas on a mega fight card, especially making the first defense of my WBC Middleweight World Championship,” said Adames. “Terrell Gausha has a lot of experience fighting at the top level in the pros and in the amateurs. I know this is a tough fight and that makes me focus even more in training. Right now my mind is right, my body feels great and I’m going to be able to put on a spectacular performance for everybody watching on June 15. I’m going to defend my title with everything I’ve got.”

A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, Gausha (25-3-1, 12 KOs) was born in Cleveland, Ohio but now fights out of Encino, Calif. and is trained by the renowned Manny Robles. He enters this fight having won his last two bouts as he knocked out Brandyn Lynch in March of last year before winning a decision over KeAndrae Leatherwood in September. Gausha has faced top competition throughout his career, having fought former champion Austin Trout to a draw in 2019 in addition to decision losses against former champions Erislandy Lara and Tim Tszyu and top contender Erickson Lubin.

“I’ve been training since way before this fight was signed and I’m feeling ready for the challenge,” said Gausha. “Adames is a good fighter, but so am I. I’m confident that I’m gonna come out on top on June 15. My experience and my skill set are gonna be huge factors that help me get this victory.”

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The MGM Grand Garden Arena hosted its premiere boxing event in January 1994 and, over its 30-year history, the venue has become synonymous with the sport’s biggest fight nights. Fight fans have watched champions ranging from George Foreman and Julio Cesar Chavez to Roy Jones and Shane Mosley step in the ring and put on a championship display of skill. Epic battles including Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Holyfield vs. Tyson II, Pacquiao vs. Marquez IV, multiple Barrera vs. Morales title fights, and Mayweather vs. Canelo, among others, led all boxers to want to fight at the legendary Grand Garden Arena. The June 15 event will mark a celebration of the venue’s storied history as boxing’s next chapter unfolds with these two high-stakes showdowns.

For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisMartin & #BenavidezGvozdyk, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LAS VEGAS – May 6, 2024 – Two of boxing’s most exciting and popular superstars will share center stage as five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavídez compete in separate attractions Saturday, June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The two fighters will headline a PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video in what will be the historic 100^th championship fight night at the popular sports and entertainment venue.

The undefeated three-division champion Davis will defend his WBA Lightweight World Championship against unbeaten top contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, while Benavídez is set to make his 175-pound debut against former light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk in a matchup for the Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title. This one-of-a-kind event will give viewers the unique opportunity to see two bona fide fan-favorites on the same night in high-stakes championship clashes.

The MGM Grand Garden Arena hosted its premiere boxing event in January 1994 and, over its 30-year history, the venue has become synonymous with the sport’s biggest fight nights. Fight fans have watched champions ranging from George Foreman and Julio Cesar Chavez to Roy Jones and Shane Mosley step in the ring and put on a championship display of skill. Epic battles including Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, De La Hoya vs. Mayweather, Holyfield vs. Tyson II, Pacquiao vs. Marquez IV, multiple Barrera vs. Morales title fights, and Mayweather vs. Canelo, among others led all boxers to want to fight at the legendary Grand Garden Arena. The June 15 event will mark a celebration of the venue’s storied history as boxing’s next chapter unfolds with these two high-stakes showdowns.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

Tickets for the live event go on sale Wednesday, May 8 beginning at 10 a.m. PT and will be available through www.axs.com. 

Pre-sale tickets will be available TOMORROW, Tuesday, May 7 from 10 a.m. PT to 10 p.m. PT through www.axs.com with the code: BOXING

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, Sampson Boxing, TGB Promotions and Man Down Promotions.

“Saturday, June 15 will be a spectacular night of boxing with two true superstars of the sport combining forces to deliver can’t-miss action,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Gervonta Davis has proven his star power again and again, and will return to defend his world title against another tough challenge in the undefeated Frank Martin. David Benavídez established himself as a pound-for-pound force last year, and will now seek out dominance in a new weight class against the powerful former champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk. Make sure you tune into this PBC Pay-Per-View event or come out to the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.”

“Oleksandr Gvozdyk is a very good fighter, but David Benavídez is forging a path to greatness,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “I commend David for not wanting to wait for Canelo, and for making this bold move to a new division. One way or another, David will continue growing his legacy as a true champion.”

“Saturday, June 15 is going to be like a movie. Frank Martin has put a tremendous amount of work in to get to this point and now it’s time for him to reap the benefits,” said pound-for-pound star Errol Spence Jr., Martin’s promoter. “Gervonta Davis is a great champion, but on that night, he’s going to be matched against a young, hungry and explosive talent ready to shine on the biggest stage. I expect all the fight fans to tap into what will be the biggest event of the year.”

**GERVONTA DAVIS VS. FRANK MARTIN**

Headlining the event will be the return of undefeated boxing superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis as he puts his WBA Lightweight World Championship on the line in a 12-round clash against consensus top-five lightweight contender Frank “The Ghost” Martin, who will vie for a world title for the first time in his career.

Davis (29-0, 27 KOs) has held the lightweight title since 2019 and has also won world titles at 130 and 140 pounds during his spectacular career. The Baltimore-native put an emphatic end to a years-long rivalry with Ryan Garcia last year in a crossover fight that gripped the sports world, dropping him in round two before ending the action with a vicious body shot in round seven.

Prior to that fight, he set a new gate record for Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. in January when he stopped the previously unbeaten super featherweight world champion Hector Luis Garcia in the ninth round. Before that triumph he added another highlight-reel KO to his resume, as he dispatched longtime rival Rolando Romero with a thudding left hand in February 2022, in another record-setting event at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. The 29-year-old also owns the distinction as the only fighter to stop former three-division champion Leo Santa Cruz and former world champion and current interim welterweight champion Mario Barrios. Davis burst onto the scene with an explosive knockout of Jose Pedraza in 2017 to capture his first world title and won the lightweight strap he currently holds with a 12^th-round KO of former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in 2019.

“I’m excited to be on a card with someone explosive like David Benavidez; this pay-per-view is definitely gonna be worth it,” said Davis. “I’m happy to be back in the ring. That’s where I’m comfortable at. I’m gonna go in there, be flawless, and do what I do best, which is give the fans the best boxing you’ll see. Come June 15, Frank Martin is gonna see there’s a different beast in front of him.”

The 29-year-old Martin (18-0, 12 KOs) most recently showed that his power can last through a 12-round fight as he dropped the previously unbeaten Artem Harutyunyan in the final frame to clinch a unanimous decision victory last July. His previous outing saw him stamp his status as one of the elite 135-pounders in the sport as he dropped and dominated the then-unbeaten Michel Rivera on his way to a unanimous decision in December 2022. 

Fighting under the Man Down Promotions banner ,led by top pound-for-pound fighter Errol Spence Jr., Martin’s initial ascent at 135-pounds saw him begin by stopping then unbeaten Jerry Perez in April 2021 before dispatching of tough contenders Jackson Marinez, Romero Duno and Ryan Kielczweski. Originally from Indianapolis, Ind., Martin now trains in the Dallas-area under the guidance of highly renowned trainer Derrick James.

“I’ve been locked in for a while now and having a really good training camp,” said Martin. “It’ll be an exciting fight on June 15. I expect to get the best version of ‘Tank’, and he’ll get the best version of me. We’ll have a solid game plan to come out with the win on fight night.”

**DAVID BENAVIDEZ VS. OLEKSANDR GVOZDYK**

Co-headlining the event will be the all-action star and two-time world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavídez as he makes his 175-pound debut in a 12-round duel against the power-punching former world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk as they meet for the vacant Interim WBC Light Heavyweight Title.

The 27-year-old undefeated Benavídez (28-0, 24 KOs) makes his 2024 debut after a pair of impressive wins marked his standout 2023 campaign. He began the year by besting longtime rival Caleb Plant via unanimous decision in a slugfest from March and followed it up by stopping the previously unbeaten two-division champion Demetrius Andrade in six rounds in November. Benavídez became the youngest-ever 168-pound world champion at just 20-years-old when he defeated Ronald Gavril by split decision for the vacant WBC title in 2017. A Phoenix-native who now lives in Seattle and currently trains in Miami, Benavidez has stamped his place in the super middleweight division but will now look to carry his prodigious talents up to light heavyweight for this fight.

When he was 15 years old, Benavídez went from weighing 250 pounds to a boxing prodigy under the watchful eye of his father and trainer, Jose, Sr., and his brother and veteran contender Jose Jr., as he famously held his own in sparring against middleweight champions Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin as a teenager. Benavídez rode a string of six straight knockout victories heading into the bout against Plant, including KOs of former world champions Anthony Dirrell and David Lemieux.

“I’m very excited to be going to the light heavyweight division to compete against the best 175-pound fighters,” said Benavídez. “I’ve been eyeing that division for a long time, and now I feel like it’s my time. I’m going to go unify the division. I’ve watched Gvozdyk for a long time – I know exactly how he fights. I actually sparred him when I was 20 years old and I know he’s a really tough opponent, so I need to be 100%. This is a hard fight, but I’m going to make it look easy.”

After earning a bronze medal representing his native Ukraine at the 2012 Olympics, Gvozdyk (20-1, 16 KOs) turned pro in 2014 and quickly set his sights on the top of the division. He dominated a slew of veteran contenders including Yunieski Gonzalez, Isaac Chilemba, Tommy Karpency and Nadjib Mohammedi on his way to becoming the WBC’s top rated mandatory challenger at 175-pounds. He went on to become WBC champion with an 11^th-round knockout of Adonis Stevenson and defended the title in 2019 by stopping Doudou Ngumbu in round five.

After losing the belt in a unification match against Artur Beterbiev, Gvozdyk returned in 2023 to score three straight victories. He bested Josue Obando in February before knocking out Ricards Bolotniks in May and Isaac Rodrigues in September. Now training and residing in California, Gvozdyk’s amateur career saw him compete in over 250 bouts, including three Ukrainian National Championships that led to his Olympic success.

“I’ve never avoided any challenges, and this is no exception,” said Gvozdyk. “Benavidez is a top caliber fighter and that’s exactly what motivates me to train hard each and every day. If you want to be the best, you have to fight the best. I’m ready to become a champion once again.”

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For more information visit Amazon.com/PBC, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisMartin & #BenavidezGvozdyk, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

David Benavidez is moving up.

But not necessarily on.

Benavidez intends to move up the scale to light heavyweight, one division above the Canelo Alvarez-dominated super-middle division, for an interim 175-pound title against Oleksandr Gvozdyk.

“That’s the plan,’’ Benavidez father-and-trainer Jose Benavidez told 15 Rounds Thursday, confirming a social media announcement from World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaiman. “We came to an agreement yesterday (Wednesday).’’

Jose Benavidez did not eliminate the Canelo possibility. Speculation continues to swirl about Canelo’s projected May 4 date, the first of two this year. He’s also expected to fight on September 16. Benavidez continues to be a possibility for either date.

David Benavidez, who has been calling out Canelo for a couple of years, continues to be mentioned on a speculative list that spins faster than a dizzy roulette wheel. One day, it’s Jermall Charlo. The next day, Jaime Munguia. It could stop on Terence Crawford any day.

As of Thursday, it was still not clear what Canelo would do. Last week, the talk was that he’d fight Charlo. This week, it’s Munguia, the emerging Mexican who fought his way into the Canelo sweepstakes with a four-knockdown stoppage of John Ryder in Phoenix last month.

In a news conference a couple of weeks ago, Canelo teased that he’d be fighting an American in May. Charlo is American. So is Benavidez. Munguia is not. In any language, it’s chaos.

Translation: Who knows?

The ongoing uncertainty forces Benavidez, 27, to re-think his career, which has been defined by his pursuit of Canelo. He’d rather fight than wait. In 2024, that’s what he’ll do in an attempt to re-make himself on his own terms instead of Canelo’s.  When and where that begins, however, is still uncertain.

June is one possibility. June 15 has been mentioned. But so is May, Jose Benavidez said.

“if that other guy (Canelo) can’t decide on somebody for May, maybe we’ll move on to that date against Gvozdyk,’’ Jose Sr.  told 15 Rounds.

Whenever-wherever-whoever, it’s clear that Benavidez plans to fight at 175 pounds sometime over the next 10 months. His promoter/manager Sampson Lewkowicz confirmed as much Thursday on X, formerly Twitter.

“Boxing is unpredictable and can change multiple times in a day,’’ Lewkowicz posted. “Yes” PBC (Premier Boxing Champions) in coordination with Team Benavidez. …a guarantee of ($) 55 Million was offered to Team Canelo that would exceed 60 M by adding Azteca Sports PPV and more or We are moving to 175 Lbs.’’

That move has been inevitable since Benavidez lost the WBC title on the scale in August 2020. Then 23, he failed to make the 168-pound limit before blowing out Roamer Alexis Angulo. He hasn’t missed weight since, but it was clear then that light-heavyweight was just a matter of time.

Benavidez’ unfolding career is already notable. He’s a former, two-time super-middleweight champion, yet still unbeaten. He lost the WBC’s 168-pound belt for the first time because of a positive test for cocaine.

Now, he has a chance to become a current two-time, mandatory challenger. He’s already Canelo’s mandatory. However, it’s not clear what that means, especially in a bid to fight Canelo, the pay-per-view star who gets what he wants.

The WBC officially awarded Benavidez its super-middleweight mandatory in November, but the ruling body has yet to do anything to enforce it.

A victory over Gvozdyk would include an interim light-heavyweight title. Presumably, that would also include another mandatory, although Sulaiman’s post said only that the WBC would sanction the fight for the interim belt.

No mandatory mentioned for what could – should — be a shot at the Artur Beterbiev-Dmitry Bivol winner of a fight for the undisputed 175-pound title on June 1 in Saudi Arabia.

NOTES: After Thursday’s news, Jose Benavidez left for Miami to train his son. David Benavidez, who began his boxing career in hometown Phoenix, recently bought a condo in Miami, his dad said. The Benavidez family, including older brother Jose Jr., have been living in Seattle. … Jose Benavidez Jr., a former junior welterweight and welterweight, is coming off a loss to middleweight Jermall Charlo, who blew off a contracted catch weight. Jose Jr. will continue to fight, his dad said.

LAS VEGAS –Welcome back, Canelo Alvarez.

A perceived slide was interrupted, if not halted altogether, Saturday night with Canelo’s thorough  victory over Jermell Charlo in front of a Showtime pay-per-view audience and a roaring crowd at T-Mobile Arena.

Other than a knockout, Canelo did it all. He didn’t  tire in the end. He reasserted his documented power, forcing Charlo to take a knee with a huge right hand in the seventh. He had Charlo and his doubters in retreat throughout 12 rounds.

For months, the argument was that Canelo’s 18-year career in the prize-fighting ring was over. It was as if somebody had jammed Canelo’s skillset into a barrel and shipped it to the dump. But there were signs throughout the last week that Canelo had redefined himself, his body and his career.

“Nobody is going to beat this Canelo,” he said .

The one-sided scores — 118-109, 119-108, 118-109 — were just one measure of how dominant Canelo (60-2-2, 39 KOs) was in his fight to stop the slide. Charlo (35-2-1, 15 KOs) simply had no chance.

“I don’t make excuses for myself,” Charlos said. “it is what is is.”

One question will linger. Charlo, an undisputed champion at junior-middleweight, was fighting for the first at super-middle, a division Canelo has long ruled.

Charlo jumped two weight classes. He was feeling super-middleweight power for the first time. The question will be there until Canelo faces a true super-middleweight. That might be David Benavidez, the unbeaten super-middleweight from Phoenix.

First, Benavidez has to beat Demetrius Andrade. 15 Rounds confirmed with promoter Tom Brown that Benavidez will fight Andrade on November 25 in San Antonio. The World Boxing Council aso is planning to address Canelo’s next mandatory defense at its convention in November in Uzbekistan, WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman told 15 Rounds. The Benavidez-Andrade winner might get a mandatory shot at Canelo. 

But nothing is ever certain. Welterweight champion Terence Crawford, the undisputed pound-for-pound No. 1 after his blowout of Errol Spence, has talked about facing Canelo at a catchweight. Crawford was in the crowd Saturday.

“We can;t rule on what we don;t know,” Sulaiman said. “We can only deal with the facts.”

For now, here’s one:

Canelo is back.

Lubin wins unanimous decision for a fight that only earns boos

A firefight was the promise. But there was no fire. Not much of a fight, either. Instead there were boos.

A gathering crowd for the Canelo Alvarez-Jermell Charlo fight Saturday night turned into a storm of discontent at a bout that had been projected to be a significant junior-middleweight match.  

But the Erickson Lubin-Jesus Ramos bout was a dud in the final Showtime pay-per-view bout before Canelo-Charlo at T-Mobile Arena.

For 12 rounds, Ramos (20-1, 16 KOs) moved forward, chasing a backpedaling Lubin (26-2, 18 KOs). If it weren’t for ropes that kept him in the ring, Ramos would have been chasing Lubin down the Vegas Strip. Lubin would not engage.

But he did enough backpedaling to convince the judges. All three scored it in his favor. It was 115-113, 116-112 and 117-111. All for Lubin. The decision was unanimous. So was the crowd’s discontent.

Lubin looked surprised when the scores were announced.  Ramos, a 22-year-old Arizona fighter from Casa Grande, looked
stunned. After Lubin  stopped backpedaling enough to be interviewed in the ring, his answers couldn’t be heard above the roar of boos.

“I’m one of the top dogs,” he said after a dog fight.

Meanwhile, Ramos was left to deal with one of boxing’s lessons. Lousy decisions are like scars. Everybody has one.

“I’ll move on and deal with this loss,” said the young fighter who came into the ring  amid expectations that he had a chance to be one of boxing’s next great champions.

All he has now is a loss. And maybe a lesson. 

Barrios scores decision over a bloodied Ugas

In the end, it belonged to Mario Barrios, who scored a decision — unanimous and contentious — over Yordenis Ugas Saturday night on the Showtime pay-per-view telecast of the card featuring Canelo Alvarez-versus-Jermell Charlo at T-Mobile Arena

Barrios (28-3, 18 KOS), a San Antonio welterweight, scored two knockdowns of Ugas (27-6, 12 KOs), a Cuban best known for ending Manny Pacquiao’s legendary career.

A left jab put Ugas down in the second. He was down again in the twelfth. Twice, the ringside doctor looked at his bloodied eyes. Each time, the fight was allowed to continue. But there was never much of a chance that Ugas could win. By  A lucky punch? Maybe.

But Barrios had too much energy and more precision in his punches. Ugas was just hanging on for an end that would go against him. It did.  He lost on all three cards, 118-107, 117-108, 118-107..

Elijah Garcia delivers TKO victory in his “toughest” fight

There were questions in the beginning. Then, there were lessons, sharply delivered and still there to learn. In the end, there was some perfection.

For emerging middleweight Elijah Garcia, still a student of the game, it was a fight full of just about everything. From aspirations to possibilities, it was all there.

 Above all, Garcia (16-0, 13 KOs) stayed unbeaten and on track to accomplish an ambitious goal with an eighth-round TKO of Armando Resenediz Saturday in the first Showtime pay-per-view bout on the card featuring Canelo Alvarez-Jermell Charlo Saturday at T-Mobile Arena.

“It was really a hard fight,” said Garcia, a 20-year-old Arizona fighter who wants to be a 21-year-old middleweight champion. “It was my toughest, yeah 100 percent.”

They’ll get tougher. A lot tougher. There’s no other way to get to that middleweight title. But he’s still there, perhaps on the fast track, mostly because of what he continued to prove. His power is deadly and he sustains it. Without it, he might be dealing with his first defeat.

But it was alway there and always accurate enough  to stagger, stun and then wear out the gritty Resendiz (14-2, 10 KOs). 

The Phoenix born left-hander, who continues to wear 602 — the PHX area code — stitched onto the belt buckle of his trunks — set the tone in the opening round, buckling Resendiz at the knees with a big left hand.

But Resendiz, stubborn and brave, would not go away. For the next few rounds, Resendiz tirelessly moved forward and relentlessly threw straight-handed punches. They landed, again and again. The evidence was in the reddening skin around Garcia’s eyes. Garcia was dropping his hands, especially his left.  Sometimes, it was down at his hip. It was risky against Resendiz. Against a middleweight champion, it could be deadly. A lesson still to be learned.

For now, Garcia’s power prevails. Within Resendiz’ busy style, there was no counter for it . There was only an inevitable end and It came at about two minutes of the eighth round, delivered by a sequence of punches that were a thing of beauty. Garcia put together three punches, almost seamlessly. First, Gracia landed a left to Resendiz’s body. Then, he followed with a right to the body. Then, there was the finishing touch, a right to the head. It was all done with a certain rhythm that ended in Resendiz crashing to the canvas.

About 30 seconds later, referee Tony Weeks saw a dazed and defenseless Resendiz. Wisely, Weeks ended it at 2:33 of the eighth round of a fight that included a statement, punctuated by three perfectly delivered punches that summed up Garcia’s potential.   

Frank Sanchez wins fourth-round stoppage

Frank Sanchez has more than just heavyweight power. He’s a quick thinker.

He had to be against Scott Alexander Saturday night on the Caneo Alvarez-Jermell Charlo card Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena.

Alexander (17-6-2, 9 KOs) of Los Angeles, quicky showed that he was more than just another opponent. He threw a head-rocking right hand, a wake-up call in the first round 

Sanchez’ response was immediate. The merging contender from Cuba countered with his own right, staggering Alexander with a blow that delivered a preview of what was to come. 

In the second round, Sanchez (23-0 16 KOs) knocked down Alexander. In the fourth, he did it again. But this one finished Alexander, who was slow to get up and wobbly when he did, a loser by TKO late in the fourth

Gausha wins majority decision

Terrell Gausha took another step  toward turning his loss to Tim Tszyu into a fading memory.

He beat KeAndrae Leatherwood.

But it wasn’t easy.

Gausha (24-3-1, 12 KOs) a middleweight from Cleveland, found himself caught up in a slow-paced bout with an awkward Leatherwood (39-1, 13 KOs), of Tuscaloosa AL, in an eight-round middleweight bout on the card featuring Canelo Alvarez-Jermell Charlo.

A cautious Leatherwood was content to hold , but never engage Gausha. That made the fight hard to score.

Gausha, an Olympian who lost a unanimous decision to Tszyu in March 2022, won a majority decision. He was a 78-74 winner on two cards. The third judge scored it a draw.

Oleksandr Gvozdyk back with quick KO

Former light-heavyweight champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk says he’s ready for Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev.

He won’t get an argument from Isaac Rodrigues.

In his third comeback fight this year, Gvozdyk (20-1, 15 KOs) continued to work on restoring his world-class skills with crushing second round knockout of Rodrigues (28-5, 22 KOs) in the the third fight on the Canelo-Charlo undercard, Gvozdyk, a Ukrainian, is working his way back after he retired following a punishing loss to Beterbiev in October 2019 in Philadelphia.

Rodrigues’ 22 stoppages suggested that he might be dangerous. He wasn’t. Midway through the second, Gvozdyk, who calls himself “The Nail”, hammered him with a couple of precise punches. Rodrigues, of Brazil, had to be helped out of the ring. Middleweights fight to forgettable draw

It was a draw. Dull,too

A crowd might been bored by a forgettable middleweight bout between Abilkhan Amankul (4-0-1, 4 KOs), of Kazakhstan, and Joeshen James (7-0-2, 4 KOs) , of Sacramento, in the second bout on the Canelo-Charlo card. But there was nobody at T-Mobile to bore.

One card favored Amankul, 39-37. On the other two, it  was, yawn 38-38.

First Bell: Canelo-Charlo card opens with crushing KO

Call it a power lunch.

Gabriel Valenzuela brought all the power, He opened the show about six hours before the Canelo Alvarez-Jermell Charlo main event Saturday. He dropped Yeis Gabriel Solano three times. Nobody noticed.That’s because nobody was there for the matinee opener to a 12 fight card at T-Mobile Arena.

It was over when Valenzuela (27-3-1, 17 KOs), of Mexico, sent Solano (15-3, 10 KOs), of Colombia, crashing onto the canvas, a knockout victim at 2:33 of the sixth round. An unconscious Solano remained on the canvas, surrounded by echoes, for several seconds until hs cornermen helped up and out of the ring.

LAS VEGAS – September 22, 2023 – Top heavyweight Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sanchez will highlight the stacked three-fight SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN show as he takes on Scott Alexander in a 10-round matchup on Saturday, September 30 leading up to the Canelo Álvarez vs. Jermell Charlo SHOWTIME PPV event taking place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions pay-per-view.

The lineup will also see former light heavyweight champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk battle Brazil’s Isaac Rodrigues in an eight-round duel, while 2012 U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha faces KeAndrae Leatherwood in an eight-round middleweight bout. The live stream will begin at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and be available on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing^® Facebook page.

The show will be hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell.

These fights lead into a four-fight pay-per-view telecast beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and headlined by Undisputed Super Middleweight World Champion Canelo Álvarez defending his titles against Undisputed Junior Middleweight World Champion Jermell Charlo in a historic battle of reigning undisputed champions.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com. 

An amateur standout from his native Cuba, Sánchez (22-0, 15 KOs) now trains in California with renowned trainer of Canelo Álvarez, Eddy Reynoso. The 31-year-old caught the heavyweight division’s attention when he scored a career-best win in October 2021, dropping the previously unbeaten Efe Ajagba on his way to a unanimous decision victory. Most recently he blasted out Daniel Martz in one round in April. He will be opposed by the 34-year-old Alexander (17-5-2, 9 KOs), who most recently knocked out Jaime Solorio in August 2022. The Los Angeles-native has challenged many contenders throughout his career, including Zhilei Zhang, Carlos Negron and Travis Kauffman.

After earning a bronze medal representing his native Ukraine at the 2012 Olympics, Gvozdyk (19-1, 15 KOs) turned pro in 2014, eventually defeating a slew of contenders to earn a light heavyweight title shot. He went on to become WBC champion with an 11^th-round knockout of Adonis Stevenson and defended the title in 2019 by stopping Doudou Ngumbu in round five. Since losing the belt in a unification match against Artur Beterbiev, Gvozdyk has picked up a pair of victories in 2023, besting Josue Obando in February and Ricards Bolotniks in May. He will take on Mocajuba, Para, Brazil’s Rodrigues (28-4, 22 KOs), who most recently dropped a decision to Richard Rivera in February. Rodrigues has also challenged contender Demond Nicholson in a career that dates back to 2005.

A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, Gausha (23-3-1, 12 KOs) was born in Cleveland, Ohio but now fights out of Encino, Calif. The 36-year-old has faced tough competition throughout his career, having fought former champion Austin Trout to a draw in 2019 in addition to decision losses against former champion Erislandy Lara, top contender Erickson Lubin and interim champion Tim Tszyu. Gausha has shown impressive power in recent years, blasting out Jamontay Clark in two rounds in 2021 and most recently stopping Brandyn Lynch in round nine in March. He faces Tuscaloosa, Alabama’s Leatherwood (23-8-1, 13 KOs), who has faced numerous former champions and contenders including Caleb Truax, Andy Lee, Hugo Centeno Jr., John Jackson, Steve Rolls and Christian Mbilli.

The non-televised undercard will see 140-pound contender Gabriel Valenzuela (27-3-1, 16 KOs) duel Yeis Gabriel Solano (15-2, 10 KOs) in an eight-round attraction, amateur sensation Curmel Moton in his pro debut taking on Ezequiel Flores (4-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round super featherweight fight, and super featherweight prospect Justin Viloria (3-0, 3 KOs) stepping in for a six-round match against Chicago’s Angel Barrera (4-2).

Rounding out the lineup is a pair of unbeaten prospects from Kazakhstan as Bek Nurmaganbet (10-0, 8 KOs) squares off against Abimbola Osundairo (5-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight tilt, while middleweight Abilkhan Amankul (4-0, 4 KOs) faces Joeshon James (7-0-1, 4 KOs) for six rounds of action.

#         #         #

ABOUT CANELO VS. CHARLO

Canelo vs. Charlo will see pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez defend his undisputed super middleweight world titles in a blockbuster showdown against hard-hitting undisputed junior middleweight world champion Jermell Charlo headlining a SHOWTIME PPV on September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions pay-per-view. 

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see undefeated sensation Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. take on hard-hitting top contender Erickson “Hammer” Lubin in the 12-round super welterweight co-main event. The pay-per-view also includes former world champions Yordenis Ugas and Mario “El Azteca” Barrios going toe-to-toe for the Interim WBC Welterweight Title. Opening up the action are rising middleweights Elijah Garcia and Armando Reséndiz squaring off in a 10-round attraction.

For more information visit SHOWTIME.com/ppv and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CaneloCharlo, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, former WBC Light Heavyweight champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk left Temple University Hospital following a two-night stay following is knockout defeat to Artur Beterbiev on Friday night.

“All is clear,” Teddy Atlas, Gvozdyk’s trainer, who accompanied him to the hospital, told ESPN on Sunday. “No [brain] bleed or anything. Thank God, just a minor concussion from the hits to the back of the head they said, but we needed to be sure.”

Following his stoppage defeat to Artur Beterbiev, former WBC Light Heavyweight champion, Oleksandr Gvozdyk remained hospitalized at Temple University hospital, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“I’m still here with him,” trainer Teddy Atlas said. “I just brought him last night because he had pain behind his head from the punches he got hit there, so they did a scan and saw a possible small something and did another scan six hours later and [the doctor] wanted us to stay 24 hours to be safe. So we canceled his flight, and I will stay with him here another night, then [on Sunday] bring him to my home [in New York] — just again to be safe. Then Monday, he will fly home. He is OK.

“He’s fine, but we are still here just as precaution and will stay the night. [On Sunday] morning, if all is the same, they will discharge him.”

Oleksandr Gvozdyk 174.3 lbs vs. Artur Beterbiev 174.5 lbs
(WBC/IBF Light Heavyweight world titles – 12 Rounds)

        Luis Collazo 146.4 lbs vs. Kudratillo Abdukakhorov 147.1 lbs
(Welterweight  – 10 Rounds)

ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET)

          Sonny Conto 214.1 lbs vs. Steven Lyons 201.9 lbs
(Heavyweight – 4 Rounds)

Joseph Adorno 136.8 lbs vs. Damian Sosa 134.7 lbs
(Lightweight – 8 Rounds)

Jeremy Adorno 121.1 lbs vs. Misael Reyes 121.2 lbs
(Super Bantamweight – 4 Rounds)

       Josue Vargas 140.2 lbs vs. Johnny Rodriguez 140.5 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 8 Rounds)

       Michael Seals 174.6 lbs vs. Elio Heraldo Trosch 173.2 lbs
(Light Heavyweight – 8 Rounds)

SWING BOUT

 Julian Rodriguez 142.6 lbs vs. Leonardo Doronio 139 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 6 Rounds)
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Peltz Boxing, tickets priced at $150, $90, $75 and $50 (not including applicable fees) can be purchased at the Liacouras Center Box Office, www.liacourascenter.com or charge by phone at 800-298-4200.     

Internationally, outside the US and Canada,  Gvozdyk-Beterbiev is
available on FITE, the number one combat sports digital platform. For
more information go to www.FITE.tv.

For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook:facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.
Use the hashtag #BeterbievNail to join the conversation on social media.

PHILADELPHIA (Oct. 16, 2019) — IBF light heavyweight world champion Artur Beterbiev and WBC light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk ended their fight promotion obligations Wednesday at the office of Hall of Fame promoter J Russell Peltz. They posed for pictures in front of the fight poster for the legendary 1962 light heavyweight championship fight between Doug Jones and Harold Johnson, which took place at the old Philadelphia Arena.

Beterbiev and Gvozdyk will add to the city’s light heavyweight legacy Friday evening at the Liacouras Center, a throwback battle befitting a storied fight city.

Before the two combatants posed for photos and faced off at Peltz’s office/museum, they participated in a media roundtable. This is what they had to say.

Oleksandr Gvozdyk

On working with Teddy Atlas

“Teddy demands a lot of his fighters, and I am fine with that. Training camp is supposed to be hard, and we worked together to come up with the necessary game plan to beat Beterbiev.”

“Teddy is very picky, very particular, and this is what you need. Sometimes, you cannot right yourself. Sometimes, you think you’re too tired, sometimes you want to work more, but Teddy knows exactly what you’re supposed to do. And there is no place for argument. First of all, he is a good person because when I met him, I realized that. Like I’ve said a lot of times before, this type of person is already under extinction, probably even non-existent anymore. From his professional qualities, besides his qualities as a human being, he’s very smart, he has over 40 years in this business, and he never loses any small details, which is really important.”

“First of all, my dream is to become undisputed champion. This is the first step, and this is the necessary step. And the second thing is, this is what fans like to see. They don’t want to see champions fight some opponents or journeymen. Tough fights, which fans like to see. For me, it’s a big challenge.”

“For now, only one challenge and one opponent exists for me. I’m not even thinking about any other opportunities. Everything is possible in the future. Maybe go up {in weight} or go down. I think it’s possible, maybe hard, but possible. But again, right now, I’m not even thinking about it.”
 
Teddy Atlas (Gvozdyk’s trainer)

“Camp couldn’t be better. We got to where we want to be. You gotta go in there Friday night and execute, but everything is in place. Couldn’t ask for more.”

On moving training camp to Philadelphia

First of all, we didn’t have to acclimate to the time difference because we’d be in the same time zone, and being that the weather would still be good, there was no problem with training here on the East Coast. Sometimes, you have to worry about bad weather with training on the East Coast. We didn’t have to worry about that. And not having to get on a plane and go across the country on the Sunday before the fight was a nice thing.”

On fighting a big puncher like Beterbiev

“It’s just, again, a reminder that there’s no room for mistakes, that there’s gotta be full concentration for 36 minutes. You have to fight one round at a time, one three-minute round at a time. Not two minutes and 59 seconds, no. Not when you’re in there with a puncher who can change everything in a moment with one punch, as {Adonis} Stevenson almost did in the 10th round. The reason why he’s a champion is because he was able to handle that and was able to survive that. That’s why he’s a champion. You could look at all the other rounds and say he’s a champion because of this, he’s a champion because of that, he gave angles, he used the jab, he punched at the right time. But he’s a champion because, when the moment came, he behaved like a champion.”

“If there are moments to take bigger bites in this fight, we’re going to take them at whatever time that is. If it’s early, it’s early. If it’s late, it’s late. If it’s middle, it’s middle. He’s got great judgment and instincts, and we’ve put that in place, and I know we can depend on that judgment and those instincts when it’s time to take a bite, small or big. We never want to get greedy. You never want to get greedy, especially with a puncher.”

“I think this fight’s a little different than maybe some people envision it. It’s not going to be exactly the same as the Stevenson fight because we have a guy where there’s going to have to be moments… put it this way, there’s going to have to be moments to take bigger bites with this guy. And that doesn’t mean getting sloppy or careless or greedy, but it means what it means.” 

Artur Beterbiev

On the amateur fight he won against Gvozdyk

“I think it was two rounds. But I don’t know, I heard Gvozdyk say I broke his nose. I don’t know that. He said that. It was only two rounds.”

Has Gvozdyk changed as a fighter since then?

“I think so. I changed. He changed. Everybody changed. His face changed, too. A little more hair.”

On starting to train in Russia before moving camp to Montreal

“I went to Russia just for vacation, but I wanted to be, like, active. I went to altitude. I used to {train} there when I was an amateur boxer. I had a good camp there. It was like preparation for our camp {in Canada} for eight weeks.”

On his past promotional difficulties and extended layoffs

“It was a difficult time, but I don’t want to talk about the past. I think the future is more happy. It’s hard when you have court and you have to train and be active. It’s hard, but I did that. Now, I have 100 percent time to focus on my fight and my career.”

Marc Ramsay (Beterbiev’s trainer)

“I’m not going to expose my tactics for Friday night today, but the thing is, when you go into a big fight like this, it’s important that you’re not surprised by anything. This is what we prepared for in the gym, technically, tactically, all aspects of boxing, like speed {and} power. We’re going to bring everything to the table on Friday.”

“We asked our management if we could have {unification} fights right away. This is what Artur wants, what I want as a trainer, and everybody wanted to go in this direction. I don’t know what happened behind the scenes, but I know it wasn’t very difficult looking back with this fight on the table. We said ‘yes’ right away, first day {it was offered}.”

ESPN and ESPN Deportes, 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

Oleksandr Gvozdyk vs. Artur Beterbiev, 12 rounds, WBC/IBF light heavyweight world titles

Luis Collazo vs. Kudratillo Abdukakhorov, 10 rounds, welterweight

ESPN+, 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT

Michael Seals vs. Elio Trosch, 8 rounds, light heavyweight

Josue Vargas vs. Johnny Rodriguez, 8 rounds, super lightweight

John Bauza vs. Donald Ward, 8/6 rounds, super lightweight

Joseph Adorno vs. Damian Sosa 8 rounds, lightweight

Julian Rodriguez vs. Leonardo Doronio, 6 rounds, super lightweight

Jeremy Adorno vs. Misael Reyes, 4 rounds, super bantamweight

Sonny Conto vs. Steven Lyons, 4 rounds, heavyweight

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Peltz Boxing, tickets priced at $150, $90, $75 and $50 (not including applicable fees) can be purchased at the Liacouras Center Box Office, www.liacourascenter.com or charge by phone at 800-298-4200.  

PHILADELPHIA (Sept. 24, 2019) — A high-stakes welterweight co-feature will set the stage for the can’t-miss light heavyweight unification bout between IBF champion Artur Beterbiev and WBC champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk Friday, October 18 at the Liacouras Center.

Former world champion Luis Collazo will take on IBF No. 1 contender Kudratillo “The Punisher” Abdukakhorov in a 10-rounder with potential world title implications.

Collazo-Abdukakhorov will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes immediately preceding Beterbiev-Gvozdyk at 10 p.m. ET, while the undercard will stream on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, beginning at 7 p.m. ET.

“This is a fight that will deliver action and a top contender in the talent-rich welterweight division,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Collazo-Abdukakhorov is a great complement to Beterbiev-Gvozdyk, and it’s only fitting that a card like this is coming to the great fighting city of Philadelphia.”

“I’m just ready to go. The Jose Benavidez Jr. fight didn’t happen because he was hurt or whatever, but trust me, you are going to see an incredible performance that will steal the show on October 18,” Collazo said. “I’m coming for everything. It’s now or never. I can’t wait to show out in the great city of Philadelphia.”

 “I would like to thank Top Rank for giving me this opportunity to fight a great former champion,” Abdukakhorov said. “I am looking forward to showcasing my talent to the world. This will be a great fight, as Luis Collazo is someone who comes and gives 100 percent every fight and his aggressive style is adored by many fans. He has the heart of a true warrior. I do believe his age will be a factor, and I will try to capitalize on it. I am coming to this fight with every intention of beating him to cement my status as the mandatory for the IBF world title.” 

Collazo (39-7, 20 KOs), the 38-year-old Brooklyn native who held a piece of the welterweight title from 2005-2006, is seeking one last crack at the brass ring. He has won three in a row since a 2015 KO loss to Keith Thurman, whom he hurt with a body shot and nearly knocked down. He is closing in on two decades as a pro and holds victories over the likes of Jose Antonio Rivera and Victor Ortiz. Most recently, he earned a split decision verdict over Samuel Vargas. Abdukakhorov (16-0, 9 KOs) earned the IBF No 1 ranking with a unanimous decision over Keita Obara March 30 in Philadelphia. A road warrior who was born in Uzbekistan, Abdukakhorov has fought in Uzbekistan, Singapore, Malaysia, Russia and the U.S.

In other undercard action:

• Light heavyweight contender Michael Seals (23-2, 17 KOs), fresh off his one-punch Knockout of the Year contender over Christopher Brooker on June 8, will lock horns with Elio “La Maquina” Trosch (14-8-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-rounder.
   
• Undefeated knockout artist Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno (13-0, 11 KOs) will take on Argentinean veteran Damian “El Pana” Sosa (9-2, 7 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight contest. Sosa has never been knocked out as a pro, while Adorno has nine stoppages within the first two rounds.
   
• South Philadelphia-born heavyweight sensation Sonny “The Bronco” Conto (4-0, 3 KOs) will make his fourth pro appearance in his home city against Steven Lyons (5-5, 2 KOs) in a four-rounder. Conto has sparred the likes of lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and top contender Kubrat Pulev. He last fought August 10 at the Liacouras Center, winning a decision over Guillermo Del Rio.
   
• Josue “The Prodigy” Vargas (14-1, 9 KOs) will look to make it nine consecutive wins versus Denver native Johnny Rodriguez (9-4-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-rounder at super lightweight.
   
• John” El Terrible” Bauza (13-0, 5 KOs), a 21-year-old Puerto Rican super lightweight prospect, will fight the upset-minded veteran Donald “Bulldog” Ward (11-11-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-rounder.
   
• Super bantamweight prospect Jeremy “Magic Hands” Adorno (2-0, 1 KO), Joseph Adorno’s younger brother, will face Misael Reyes (1-2, 0 KOs) in a four-rounder.
   
• Julian “Hammer Hands” Rodriguez (17-0, 11 KOs), who returned from a nearly two-year layoff with a first-round knockout on July 13, will face Leonardo Doronio (17-16-3, 11 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight bout. 

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Peltz Boxing, tickets priced at $150, $90, $75 and $50 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased at the Liacouras Center Box Office, www.liacourascenter.com or charge by phone at 800-298-4200.

For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtag #BeterbievNail to join the conversation on social media.

LAS VEGAS (Sept. 13, 2019) — Three world title bouts and a highly anticipated light heavyweight unification fight are on the docket for Top Rank’s fall schedule, which will be unveiled TODAY at 12 p.m. PT at a special kickoff press conference at the MGM Grand’s KA Theatre. The press conference will feature all eight fighters, and it will be streamed live on @ESPN through the ESPN App, available to all viewers unauthenticated.

The fall schedule will kick off October 18 with the previously announced light heavyweight unification bout between IBF champion Artur Beterbiev and WBC champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia (ESPN and ESPN Deportes, 10 p.m. ET). The entire undercard will stream on ESPN+ starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

“This is a tremendous lineup of fights that Top Rank is bringing to ESPN and ESPN+ in the fall,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “You have young superstars and established champions in the toughest fights of their careers. It doesn’t get better than that. When it’s all said and done, new superstars are going to emerge.”

October 26: Stevenson and Gonzalez to Battle for Featherweight World Title

Shakur Stevenson is only 22 years old and 12 fights into his pro career. For his first world title shot, he’ll return to the sight of many of his greatest amateur accomplishments. Stevenson will face Joet Gonzalez for the vacant WBO featherweight title Saturday, October 26 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nevada.

Stevenson and Gonzalez are the WBO’s top two contenders for the belt vacated by Oscar Valdez, who is now campaigning at 130 pounds.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Let’s Get It On Promotions and Golden Boy, Stevenson-Gonzalez and a co-feature will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The entire undercard will stream on ESPN+ starting at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.

“I have been working for this moment my entire life, and no one is going to stop me from becoming a world champion,” Stevenson said. “I had some of my biggest amateur moments in Reno, and I can’t wait to win my first world title there. This is my time to show the world that I am the best young fighter in boxing. The Shakur Stevenson era will officially begin on October 26.”

“It’s about time I got my world title shot,” Gonzalez said. “I’ve been asking for this opportunity for a long time. Thanks to my promoter and manager, it is finally here. Shakur Stevenson has done a lot of talking. But I’ll do my talking in the ring with my fists on October 26.”

Stevenson (12-0, 7 KOs), the fighting pride of Newark, New Jersey, turned pro in April 2017 following a standout amateur career that included a 2016 Olympic silver medal for the United States. He is familiar with Reno, having won four national titles in “The Biggest Little City in the World” from 2013-2015, including his triumph at the Olympic Trials. Stevenson returned to Reno as a pro, shutting out Juan Tapia over eight rounds in February 2018 to improve to 5-0. He has fought three times thus far in 2019, including a career-best performance April 20 against former world title challenger Christopher Diaz on the Terence Crawford-Amir Khan pay-per-view undercard. He followed up the unanimous decision over Diaz with a triumphant return to Newark, where more than 5,000 fans packed the Prudential Center for his third-round stoppage over Alberto Guevara.

Gonzalez (23-0, 14 KOs) is a seven-year pro who has the edge in experience, and at 25 years old, is three years older than Stevenson. Like Stevenson, he had a storied amateur career, nearly qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics and winning a U.S. Junior Olympics title. Gonzalez has won three consecutive bouts by knockout since a split decision victory over former world title challenger Rafael Rivera. He last fought July 13 in Carson, California, capturing the WBO Global and WBA Continental America featherweight titles with a sixth-round stoppage over Manuel Avila. Immediately following the Avila bout, he expressed interest in fighting in Stevenson, and the two have since been engaged in a social media back-and-forth. The talking will stop — and the fight will start — on October 26.

November 2: Miguel Berchelt Set to Defend Super Featherweight World Title Versus Jason Sosa

WBC super featherweight world champion Miguel Berchelt will defend his world title for the sixth time against former world champion Jason Sosa in a can’t-miss battle Saturday, November 2 at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

Berchelt, who has won four in a row by stoppage, is the division’s longest-reigning world champion and is ranked No. 1 by both ESPN.com and Ring Magazine.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions and Peltz Boxing, Berchelt-Sosa and a world title co-feature will air live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT. The undercard will stream on ESPN+ starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

“On November 2, there will be another classic war between a Mexican and a Puerto Rican warrior,” Berchelt said. “I will prove once again that I am the best and most spectacular super featherweight in the world. This title ain’t going anywhere.”

“I can’t express how happy and grateful I am to Top Rank and Russell Peltz for once again working together to give me another shot at becoming world champion,” Sosa said. “I am training harder than ever. I want this so bad, and I am not going to let anything stop what God has planned for me. We are incredibly focused knowing the importance of this fight. Berchelt is a strong opponent, and we are not taking his talents lightly. We both throw a lot of punches so expect an action-packed fight that will be the next chapter in the Mexico versus Puerto Rico rivalry. It’s a rivalry that’s been ongoing for years, and I plan on making my island very proud. On November 2, I plan on becoming a two-time world champion.”

Berchelt (36-1, 32 KOs) has reigned as WBC super featherweight king since January 28, 2017, the evening he dethroned Francisco Vargas via 11^th-round knockout in a Fight of the Year contender. He has maintained his reputation as an all-action star, besting Miguel Roman and Takashi Miura in dominant title defenses. He last fought May 11 in Tucson, Arizona, battering Vargas in their rematch until Vargas retired on his stool following the sixth round. A native of Cancun, Mexico, Berchelt has won 15 consecutive bouts and hopes a win over Sosa will move him closer to a world title unification bout.

Sosa (23-3-4, 16 KOs), from Camden, New Jersey, is in the midst of a career revitalization following a two-bout skid in 2017. Sosa has reeled off three consecutive wins since a controversial decision loss to Yuriorkis Gamboa in November 2017, and he is now ranked in the top 10 by two of the major sanctioning organizations. He last fought August 10 in Philadelphia, knocking out Lydell Rhodes in seven rounds to earn his shot at the title.

November 9: Jamel Herring Set for Ballpark Title Defense Versus Lamont Roach Jr. in Fresno

Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring, the U.S. Marine veteran who upset Masayuki Ito in on Memorial Day weekend to win the WBO junior lightweight title, is set to honor his comrades by returning on Veterans Day weekend.

Herring will make his first title defense against the undefeated Lamont Roach Jr. on Saturday, November 9 at Chukchansi Park in Fresno, home of the Triple-A Fresno Grizzlies. This is a return engagement for Herring, who fought at Fresno’s Save Mart Center last September and had more than 1,000 active, retired and aspiring service members in the crowd cheering him on.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Golden Boy, Herring-Roach and a co-feature will stream live beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on ESPN+. The undercard will stream on ESPN+ starting at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.

“Our camps have gone back and forth, and I’m just ready to get to work,” Herring said. “I have a great team, and Terence Crawford will also be in camp to make sure I’m at my best. Overall, the night means much more than trash-talking, since it’s the weekend of both Veterans Day and the Marine Corps birthday.

“I’m glad to be back in Fresno. I had a huge crowd supporting me last time I fought in the area. I know a victory here will lead to bigger and better things.”

“I know Jamel very well and he knows me,” Roach Jr. said. “I’m super excited, and I’ve been waiting for this moment my entire life. This victory will be only the beginning of my legacy. I’m here for a reason, and I can’t wait to show the world why! I will be the WBO junior lightweight world champion on November 9.”

Herring (20-2, 10 KOs) served two tours of duty with the Marines in Iraq and captained the 2012 U.S. Olympic boxing team. His pro career stalled with a 1-2 skid from 2016-2017, but after signing with Top Rank and moving down to 130 pounds, he won three straight fights to earn the title shot against Ito. His September 2018 fight against John Vincent Moralde was a particularly special occasion, as dozens of Marines lined the Save Mart Center walkway as Herring made his entrance. He shut out Moralde as the ESPN-televised co-feature, and now he returns to California’s Central Valley ready to put on a clinic under the lights.

Roach (19-0-1, 7 KOs) is one of the best young fighters to emerge from the boxing hotbed of Washington, D.C. in recent years. His only hiccup as a pro — an April 2018 draw against Orlando Cruz in Cruz’s home country of Puerto Rico — was a minor speed bump in what has been an otherwise sterling run up the ranks. He is 3-0 since the Cruz fight, winning a pair of regional belts and putting forth his best performances on high-profile cards. He last fought May 4 on the Canelo Alvarez-Danny Jacobs undercard in Las Vegas, scoring a 10-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Jonathan Oquendo. Roach is trained by his father, Lamont Roach Sr., who has been the head man in his corner for his past five bouts.

For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtags #BeterbievNail, #StevensonGonzalez, #BercheltSosa and #HerringRoach to join the conversation on social media. 

PHILADELPHIA (Aug. 17, 2019) — Two very bad men are set for an old-fashioned Philadelphia throwdown.

WBC light heavyweight world champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk and IBF light heavyweight world champion Artur Beterbiev will fight in a highly anticipated title unification bout Friday, Oct. 18 at the Liacouras Center. 

Beterbiev and Gvozdyk enter this can’t-miss clash with a combined record of 31-0 with 28 knockouts.

Gvozdyk-Beterbiev will headline a special edition of Top Rank on ESPN beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes.

The undercard will stream live on ESPN+ — the industry-leading sports streaming service — beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Peltz Boxing, tickets priced at $150, $90, $75 and $50 (not including applicable fees) go on sale Friday, Aug. 23 at 12 p.m. ET and can be purchased at the Liacouras Center Box Office, www.liacourascenter.com or charge by phone at 800-298-4200.

“This could very well be the fight of the year,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “These are two evenly matched, undefeated light heavyweight champions. There is nothing better in the sport of boxing.”

“My first goal was to win a light heavyweight world title. Now, I want to unify the belts, and that mission starts with Artur Beterbiev,” Gvozdyk said. “This is going to be a spectacular fight, one that the fans will enjoy. The fans asked for this fight, and we will deliver. One thing I know is that I will be the unified champion. I have the best trainer, Teddy Atlas, in my corner. This is our third fight together, and under his guidance, I will continue to get better.”

“I wish to thank Top Rank and my opponent, Oleksandr Gvozdyk, for making this unification bout possible and giving the fans around the world what they want,” Beterbiev said. “This will be a great fight between the two champions who aspire to become the undisputed light heavyweight world champion. I am looking forward to stepping into the ring on October 18.”

Gvozdyk (17-0, 14 KOs) will be making the second defense of the title he won from longtime champion Adonis Stevenson in a come-from-behind 11th-round KO last December in Quebec City, Canada. He followed up the Stevenson win with a dominant fifth-round TKO March 30 over Doudou Ngumbu in Philadelphia, where a large Ukrainian contingent showed up to cheer on their countryman. Gvozdyk captured a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics, where he was teammates with current professional stablemate and pound-for-pound great Vasiliy Lomachenko. A five-year pro, Gvozdyk climbed the ranks with victories over established veterans like Isaac Chilemba, Yunieski Gonzalez and Nadjib Mohammedi.

Beterbiev (14-0, 14 KOs), a former Russian amateur star, has a come-forward, take-no-prisoners ring approach that has made him the only current world champion with a 100 percent KO ratio. He won the vacant IBF world title with a 12th-round TKO over Enrico Koelling, preserving his perfect KO record by stopping Koelling with 27 seconds left in the bout. His two title defenses have lasted a total of nine rounds, and most recently, he walked through longtime contender Radivoje “Hot Rod“ Kalajdzic in five rounds in the main event of the May 4 Top Rank on ESPN telecast.

For more information, For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtag #BeterbievNail to join the conversation on social media.

PHILADELPHIA–Oleksandt Gvodyk retained the WBC Light Heavyweight title with a 5th round stoppage over Doudou Ngumbu after Ngumbu could not continue due to a leg cramp.

Gvozdyk controlled the distance trough the abbreviated contest, with the rare occasion of Ngumbu trying to dive in. In round five, Ngumbu started hopping around injured, and it was ruled he could not continue at the 58 second mark.

Gvozdyk, 174.7 lbs of Ukraine is now 17-0 with 14 knockouts. Ngumbu, 174.3 of Toulouse, FRA is 38-9.

“It wasn’t what I expected, but I did my best,” Gvozdyk said. “Sometimes this happens in the sport of boxing. It is what it is.

“My goal is to unify titles. I will wait to see what my team tells me to do next.”

Egidjust Kavaliauskas and ray Robinson battled to a ten-round draw in a welterweight bout.

It was a nip and tuck battle that each guy take turns pushing the action.

Robinson took a card 97-93 ans two cards read even at 95-95.

Kavaliauskas, 146.1 lbs of Oxnard, CA is 21-0-1. Robinson, 145.8 lbs of Philadelphia is 24-3-1.

“I won the fight, and I won it clearly,” Kavaliauskas said. “The judges did not agree, and I can’t control what fight they were watching. I still want to fight for a world title because I consider this fight a victory. I am still undefeated, and I know I can beat all of the champions in the welterweight division.”

“I think everyone in Philadelphia knows I won this fight,” Robinson said. “At the end of the night, I know I beat him. I’m the last person to beat Terence Crawford in the amateurs, and that’s the fight I want.”

Sonny Conto destroyed Omar Acosta in under a round of their scheduled four-round heavyweight bout.

Conto landed hard punches that backed Acosta into the corner, and then landed a wicked left hook that sent Acosta down. Acotsa got to his feet but wobbled, and the fight was stopped at 1:15.

Conto, 217.1 lbs of Philadelphia is 2-0 with two fist round knockouts. Acosta, 206.6 lbs of Hereford, TX is 1-6.

Jose Lopez stopped Askhat Ualikhanov after round six of their scheduled eight-round super lightweight bout.

Lopez landed hard shots throughout and had Ualikhanov in trouble several times before the fight was halted.

Lopez, 141.5 lbs Humacao, PR is now 12-1 with 10 knockouts. Ualikhanov, 141.3 lbs of Oxnard, CA is 4-2.

Joshafat Ortiz stopped James Thomas in round of their scheduled six-round super featherweight bout.

Ortiz dropped Thomas with a hard right, and the bout was stoped at 2:53.

Ortiz, 129.6 lbs of Reading, PA is 6-0 with four knockouts. Thomas, 130.3 lbs of Grand Rapids, MI is 6-5.

Juan Ruiz upset Frederick Lawson by scoring a 4th round stoppage in a scheduled eight-round super welterweight bout.

Ruiz seemed to have dropped Lawson in round four, but it was a ruled a slip. Lawson was groggy, and he took a flurry of punches on the ropes, and the bout was stopped at 1:16 of round four.

Ruiz, 149.5 lbs of Tijuana, MX is 22-4 with 14 knockouts. Lawson, 146.7 lbs of Accra, GHA is 27-2.

Christian Mbolli went the distance for the 1st time and pounded out a eight-round unanimous decision over Humberto Gutierrez in a super middleweight bout.

Mbilli, 163.3 lbs of Montreal won by scores of 80-72 and 79-73 twice, and is now 14-0. Gutierrez 165.5 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 33-8-2.

Kudratillo Abudukakhorov won a 12-round unanimous decision over Keita Obara in an IBF Welterweight elimination bout.

Abudukakhorov, 145.8 lbs of Kuala Lumpor, MAL won by scores of 118-110, 117-111 and 115-113 and is now 16-0. Obara, 146.4 lbs of Tokyo, JPN is 20-4-1.

Cassius Chaney stopped Christian Mariscal in the 1st round of their scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

Chaney registered two knockdowns, and the fight was stopped at 2:16.

Chaney, 248.6 lbs of new London, CT is 15-0 with nine knockouts. Mariscal, 251.2 lbs of Tijuna, MX is 12-3.

Jeremy Adorno made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Sebastian Baltazar in a super bantamweight contest.

Adorno, 120.1 lbs of Allentown, PA won by scores of 40-36 on all cards, and is now 1-0. Baltazar, 120.3 lbs of Tacoma, WA is 1-4.

Donald Smith remained undefeated with a 4th round knockout over Jose Antonio Martinez in a scheduled six-round super featherweight bout.

Smith registered a knockdown in round one. In round four, Smith landed a perfect counter left that plummeted Martinez to the canvas. The back of Martinez head hit the canvas, and the bout was stopped at 2:01.

Smithm 126.4 lbs of Philadelphia is 9-0 with six knockouts. Jose Antonio Martinez, 127.5 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is 11-18.

Oleksandr Gvozdyk 174.7 lbs vs. Doudou Ngumbu 174.3 lbs
(Gvozdyk’s WBC light heavyweight title- 12 Rounds)

Egidijus Kavaliauskas 146.1 lbs vs. Ray Robinson145.8 lbs
(Welterweight – 10 Rounds)

ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET)

Sonny Conto 217.1 lbs vs. Omar Acosta 206.6 lbs
(Heavyweight – 4 Rounds)

Askhat Ualikhanov 141.3 lbs vs. Jose Lopez 141.5 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 8 Rounds)

Joshafat Ortiz 129.6 lbs vs. James Thomas 130.3 lbs
(Super Featherweight – 6 Rounds)

Frederick Lawson 146.7 lbs vs. Juan Ruiz 149.6 lbs
(Super Welterweight – 8 Rounds)

Christian Mbilli 163.3 lbs vs. Humberto Gutierrez 165.5 lbs
(Super Middleweight – 8 Rounds)

Kudratillo Abdukakhorov 145.8 lbs vs. Keita Obara 146.4 lbs
(IBF Welterweight title eliminator – 12 Rounds)

Cassius Chaney 248.6 lbs vs. Christian Mariscal 251.2 lbs
(Heavyweight – 6 Rounds)

SWING BOUT 1
Jeremy Adorno 120.1 lbs vs. Sebastian Baltazar 120.3 lbs
(Super Bantamweight – 4 Rounds)

SWING BOUT 2
Donald Smith 126.4 lbs vs. Jose Antonio Martinez 127.6 lbs
(Super Featherweight – 6 Rounds)

For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook:facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtags #TheNail and #MeanMachine to follow the action on social media.

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PHILADELPHIA (Feb. 13, 2019) — The Nail and the Mean Machine are ready for their South Philly close-up.

WBC and lineal light heavyweight champion Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk will make the first defense of his world title against Doudou Ngumbu on Saturday, March 30 at the 2300 Arena. In the 10-round co-feature, Gvozdyk’s stablemate, top welterweight contender Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas, will take on Philadelphia native Ray Robinson.

Gvozdyk-Ngumbu and Kavaliauskas-Robinson will air live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The undercard, including the IBF welterweight title eliminator between Kudratillo “The Punisher” Abdukakhorov and Keita Obara and an appearance by Philadelphia-born heavyweight prospect Sonny Conto (1-0, 1 KO), will stream live on ESPN+ beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Peltz Boxing, tickets priced at $125, $75, and $50 go on sale Thursday, Feb. 14 at 10 a.m. and can be purchased at 2300arena.com, the 2300 Arena box office at (267) 758-2173, or by calling Peltz Boxing at (215) 765-0922.

“It was a long journey for me to become a world champion, and I plan on showing everyone why I am the best light heavyweight in the world,” Gvozdyk said. “Ngumbu is a tough fighter who I cannot afford to overlook. My goal in 2019 is to unify with the other champions, but before I can do that, I have to take care of business on March 30.”

“It is a great opportunity to face arguably the best light heavyweight fighter in the world. After 12 years and 46 fights in my career with serious opposition, I get my first shot at a major world title,” Ngumbu said. “I have the utmost respect for Oleksandr Gvozdyk, a great champion who took the WBC title in a war against Adonis Stevenson. It is not going to be easy, but I believe I am much more experienced as a pro and I intend to use that to my advantage.”

Gvozdyk (16-0, 13 KOs) captured an Olympic bronze medal for his native Ukraine in 2012 as part of a national team that included two-time gold medalist and future promotional stablemate Vasiliy Lomachenko. He climbed the rankings with dominant wins over the likes of Nadjib Mohammedi and Yunieski Gonzalez and won the WBC interim light heavyweight title last March with a unanimous decision against Mehdi Amar. As the mandatory challenger, he traveled to Quebec City and, behind on two of the three judges’ scorecards, knocked out longtime champion Adonis “Superman” Stevenson in the 11th round. Ngumbu (38-8, 14 KOs) is coming off perhaps the most significant win of his career, a 12-round majority decision over then-unbeaten Yoann Kongolo in May of last year. A native of the Democratic Republic of Congo who is now based in France, Ngumbu will be making his first attempt at a world title.

Kavaliauskas (21-0, 17 KOs) is universally regarded as one of the welterweight division’s top contenders, a massive puncher who rolled through then-beaten Roberto Arriaza in three rounds last November in Oklahoma City. He has knocked out five of his last six foes and is the WBO’s top contender for the belt currently held by pound-for-pound great Terence “Bud Crawford. Robinson (24-3, 12 KOs) is a rangy southpaw boxer who rebounded from back-to-back losses early in his career to Shawn Porter and Brad Solomon to win 13 in a row. In his last bout, Feb. 17, 2018 against Yordenis Ugas, he saw that winning streak come to an end when Ugas scored a seventh-round stoppage.

“I know a lot of Robinson’s fans will be in Philadelphia to cheer him on, but they will leave the 2300 Arena disappointed,” Kavaliauskas said. “This is the year that I fight for, and win, a welterweight world title. I am ready for anybody, including the Crawford-Khan winner. I will show everyone in Philadelphia and watching on ESPN what the ‘Mean Machine’ is all about.”

“I am always excited to come home and put on for my city,” Robinson said. “Every fight is a risk, but the higher the risk, the bigger the reward.”

Abdukakhorov (15-0, 9 KOs), a native of Uzbekistan who now lives in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, went 2-0 in 2018, including a convincing 12-round unanimous decision over Laszlo Toth in defense of his WBC silver welterweight belt. Obara (20-3-1, 18 KOs), who hails from Tokyo, is one of the division’s heaviest punchers. He knocked out Alvin Lagumbay in three rounds last August, a measure of revenge over the man who knocked him out in two rounds less than four months earlier.

For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook:
facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtags #TheNail and #MeanMachine to follow the action on social media.

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Former light heavyweight champion, Adonis Stevnson has awaken from a medically induced coma due to head injuries he suffered in his December 1st fight with Olkesandr Govozdyk, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“Despite recent reports being leaked to media, I wanted to clarify that Adonis is awake,” Simone “Sisi” God, Stevenson’s girlfriend and the mother of his daughter, said in a statement on Saturday. “He is healing from his injury in the private company of his family and his dedicated medical team. Adonis is a world champion in the ring and is exhibiting that same grit, strength and determination in his recovery.”

On behalf of Adonis and our family, I wanted to take a minute to thank everyone who has taken the time to reach out, send prayers and post about Adonis’ injury,” God said. “We are so grateful for the outpour of messages, gifts and support that have come our way.

“‘Superman’ is a world champion and has demonstrated his strength in facing every obstacle he has ever faced. He is a legend in the eyes of his fans and a man that demonstrates to his family daily that inner strength and love can change and redeem even the greatest of hardships.”

“Adonis and our family are so thankful to you all for your love and support and respectfully ask to continue to grant Adonis and our family privacy as he heals from this accident,” she said. “With the holidays here, Adonis is spending time enjoying music and spending time with [daughter] Adonia and his family and sends his love and appreciation to you all.

“While our Superman Adonis recovers, I’ll be stepping in to deal with all business related to Adonis as the Superwoman he always tells me I am. We are truly blessed by God and all of you for your support.”

According to promoter Yvon Michel’s Twitter account, former light heavyweight world champion Adonis Stevenson is in critical condition following his title losing stoppage defeat to Olkesandr Gvozdyk in Quebec, Center.

Stevenson was dropped and stopped in the 11th frame.

news about the condition of Adonis
“The family of @ AdonisSuperman and the leaders of Groupe Yvon Michel are currently with Adonis Stevenson. They wish to inform friends and supporters that Adonis is currently in a critical condition in intensive care at the hospital, following his fight against Oleksander Gvozdyk. They appreciate the concern and support of all. There will be no other comments for the moment and they respectfully ask for your understanding in their desire to stay in private,” said Michel on the Twitter account.