Dublin, Ireland (September 18, 2024): ‘King’ Callum Walsh (11-0, 9 KOs, fighting out of Cork, Ireland) will defend his WBC Continental Americas Super Welterweight Title for the second time against Przemyslaw Runowski, (22-2-1, 6 KOS, fighting out of Slupsk, Poland) in a 10-round main event at 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland this Friday, September 20.

The marquee international boxing card, promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions, will be broadcast internationally on UFC FIGHT PASS (5:30 p.m. BST/12:30 p.m. ET/9:30 a.m. PT), as well as further distribution in the regions below:

• Africa (Super Sport)
• Albania & Kosovo (Supersport)
• Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan (Setanta)
• Australia and New Zealand (ESPN)
• Bosnia Herzegovina, Croatia, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia & Slovenia (Sport Klub)
• Brazil (ESPN)
• Bulgaria (Max Sport)
• Cambodia (MyTV)
• Canada (Rogers Sportsnet)
• China (Kuaishou and Douyin)
• Czech Republic and Slovakia (Premier Sport & Strike TV)
• Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia (Setanta)
• India, Pakistan, Bangladesh (Sony India)
• Indonesia (MOLA)
• Japan (AbemaTV)
• Kazakhstan (Sport+)
• Latin America (ESPN)
• Malaysia (Astro Supersport)
• Middle East North Africa (Starzplay)
• Mexico (Fox Sports)
• Myanmar (Canal+)
• Philippines (Tap Sports)
• Poland (TVP)
• Portugal (SportTV)
• Russia (Match TV)
• Taiwan (Sportcast)
• Thailand (TrueSport 2)
• Turkey (S Sport)
• UK and Ireland (TNT Sports)
• Vietnam (K+)

For more information on the eight- fight card and for the latest updates visit www.ufc.com. While remaining tickets for Walsh vs. Runowski, can be purchased via Ticketmaster.ie.

 

About UFC FIGHT PASS®

UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, UFC FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. UFC FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. UFC FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 20,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access UFC FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com or @UFCFightPass on Twitter, and Instagram and on Facebook at facebook.com/ufcfightpass.

About 360 Promotions

In 2017, Tom Loeffler founded 360 Promotions to build on the wealth of success he had with the Klitschko Brothers and Gennadiy Golovkin. 360 Promotions produced the acclaimed ‘Superfly’ series giving exposure to tremendous talents in the lighter divisions on HBO. In 2018, 360 Promotions launched the acclaimed Hollywood Fight Nights series to provide a platform for rising stars and to develop the next generation of champions.

Dublin, Ireland: Callum Walsh makes his highly anticipated homecoming to Ireland on Friday, September 20 at Dublin’s 3Arena, presented by UFC FIGHT PASS®. The Cork native will defend his WBC Continental Americas Super Welterweight title in a main event bout against Przemyslaw Runowski. The co-main event will see Ali Akhmedov and Pierre Hubert Dibombe compete in a 10-round Super Middleweight bout.

Tickets go on sale from 10 a.m. on Wednesday, August 21 via Ticketmaster. 3Arena presale tickets will be available to purchase from 10 a.m. on Monday, August 19. The ten-round main event will be broadcast globally on UFC FIGHT PASS®.

Callum Walsh has a long standing relationship with UFC President and CEO Dana White, who has  supported  Walsh’s career and provided  guidance after building a combat sports empire in UFC. As an undefeated rising star, White wanted to help make it possible for Walsh to fight at home in Ireland after basing himself in California for most of his career.

“I met Callum Walsh a couple of years ago and I love the way he fights. I also love the fact that he’s not fighting guys to pad his record, like the typical boxing model. This is a kid who really believes in himself and his potential to become a world champion,” said White. “I also love the fact that one of the greatest trainers in the history of the sport, Freddie Roach, believes in him. I am very invested in this fight in Dublin and I’m really excited to not only bring a fight back to Ireland but to be sitting ringside to see Callum fight in his home country at 11-0 with 9 knockouts taking on the #1 Super Welterweight from Poland with 25 pro fights and has never been stopped. This fight is a huge opportunity for both fighters with the WBC title on the line.”

Callum Walsh (11-0, fighting out of Cork, Ireland) will defend his WBC Continental Americas Super Welterweight for the second time at the 3Arena, following consecutive knockout wins over Dauren Yeleussinov and Carlos Ortiz. The fight marks Walsh’s first professional main event appearance on home soil and with 9 KOs in his career, this headline bout is sure to deliver fireworks.  Walsh is coached by Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach and is touted as one of the sport’s brightest talents.

Przemyslaw Runowski (22-2-1, fighting out of Slupsk, Poland) heads into the event unbeaten in his last five outings and having never been stopped. He is the top rated boxer in Poland in the super welterweight division and has his eyes on ruining Walsh’s homecoming and taking his belt.

Ali Akhmedov (21-1, fighting out of Almaty, Kazakhstan) returns to the ring for the third time in 2024, following back-to-back knockout victories in April and May. Completing the transition from prospect to contender, the bout is his opportunity to show the world why he is one of the most exciting fighters in the Super Middleweight division.

Pierre Hubert Dibombe (22-1-1, fighting out of Nates, Loire-Atlantique, France) has the opportunity to complete his mission of becoming world champion by 2026 when he meets Akhmedov in Dublin. The Frenchman is looking to bounce back strongly, having suffered his first professional loss by unanimous decision, bringing an end to a 23-unbeaten streak.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• Thomas Carty (8-0, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland), who trained with double Oympian Kellie Harrington, takes on Jacek Chruslicki (8-0, fighting out of Nowy S?cz, Poland) in a Heavyweight bout.
• Former Olympian Emmett Brennan (3-0, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland) faces Kevin Cronin (8-1-1, fighting out of County Kerry, Ireland) in an eight-round bout for the Super Middleweight Celtic Title.
• Craig O’Brien (14-3, fighting out of Dublin Ireland) clashes with Edward Donavan (7-0 fighting out of Limerick, Ireland) for the Super Welterweight Celtic Title.
• Shauna O’Keefe (2-0, fighting out of Clonmel, Ireland) locks horns with Valgerdur Gudsteinsdottir (7-5, fighting out of Reykjavik, Iceland).
• Gareth Dowling (fighting out of Dublin, Ireland) makes his professional debut on the card.
• Ella Thompson (6-4, fighting out of Dunboyne, Ireland) takes on Dolly Sambrook (4-3, fighting out of the United Kingdom) in an amateur bout.

Media accreditation is now open for Walsh vs. Runowski. Please click here to apply for credentials.

ENDS

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and approximately 283 million social media followers. The organisation produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 975 million households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

About UFC FIGHT PASS®

UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, UFC FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. UFC FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. UFC FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 20,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access UFC FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com or @UFCFightPass on Twitter, and Instagram and on Facebook at facebook.com/ufcfightpass.

About 360 Promotions

In 2017, Tom Loeffler founded 360 Promotions to build on the success he had with the Klitschko Brothers and Gennadiy Golovkin. 360 Promotions produced the acclaimed ‘Superfly’ series giving exposure to tremendous talents in the lighter divisions on HBO. In 2018, 360 Promotions launched the Hollywood Fight Nights series to provide a platform for rising stars and develop the next generation of champions.

TORONTO (February 3, 2022) – All action welterweight Samuel Vargas (31-7-2) will take on Poland’s Przemyslaw Runowski (19-2-0) in a 10-round main event on Sunday, March 13th from Rebel Entertainment Complex in an event presented by Toronto’s own Lee Baxter Promotions.

Following a defeat to welterweight star Conor Benn at the Copper Box Arena in London, England last April, Vargas is eager to showcase the skills that gained him international recognition as a gritty veteran. Returning to fight in his adopted hometown for the first time since 2018, Vargas looks to put on a thrilling performance in front of a crowd at Rebel Entertainment Complex.

“Fans make all the difference in the world” Vargas notes. “It was an adjustment having to go out there without them, and there’s no doubt I perform to my potential when I hear them roar. Being back in Toronto, having a chance to go for the IBO title in front of a packed house – I’m going to deliver one hell of a performance on March 13th.”

Having gone to war with elite fighters Errol Spence Jr and Amir Khan, Vargas views the bout with Runowski as a tough test on the climb back to facing world-level opposition.

Poland’s Przemyslaw Runowski looks to capture the IBO International Welterweight Title with his debut on the Canadian boxing scene. Fresh off of a loss against Michael McKinson last summer at Matchroom Garden’s Fight Camp 2, Runowski brings his athletic, built-to-last style to Toronto. The increased exposure his last bout provided on DAZN/Matchroom’s summer showcase means Runowski will bring a score of Polish fight fans to Rebel Entertainment Complex this March.

The fight card will also feature the return of two undefeated hometown standouts. Mississauga’s Amanda Galle (5-0-0), fresh off of a November super bantamweight victory against Jaica Pavilus (1-4-1), aims to continue her perfect professional career on home turf. The co-main event will see light heavyweight standout Nick Fantauzzi (10-0-0) return from a two-year hiatus to remind Canadian boxing fans why he’s a thrilling prospect in the division.

With top prospects and new Lee Baxter Promotions signings added to the card, Sunday, March 13th looks to showcase next-generation talent in a thrilling afternoon of boxing.

Tickets for the live event at Toronto’s Rebel Entertainment Complex which is promoted by Lee Baxter Promotions will be available soon and can be purchased at https://www.ticketmaster.com.

#

ABOUT VARGAS VS. RUNOWSKI
Vargas vs. Runowski will see former NABA Welterweight Champion Samuel Vargas take on durable contender Przemyslaw Runowski in the main event of a stacked Lee Baxter Promotions card from Toronto’s Rebel Entertainment Complex on Sunday, March 13th.
Doors open at 3:30 pm with the first bout taking place at 4 pm.

**NOTE: By entering Rebel Entertainment Complex, you agree to follow the current Ontario Government Department of Public Health Guidelines. All guests are required to present either proof of full vaccination (two weeks since your final dose) or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the event date. For more information, visit the Ontario Ministry of Health website.
The event is promoted by Lee Baxter Promotions.

Joshua Buatsi stopped Ricards Bolotniks in round 11 of a scheduled 12-round light heavyweight bout at the Matchroom HQ in Essex, England

In round six, Buatsi dropped Bolotniks with a vicious left hook.

In round eight, Buatsi was deducted a point for a low blow. In round 11, Buatsi landed a booming right that sent Bolotniks to the deck and the fight was stopped at 2:08.

Buatsi, 174 3/4 lbs of Croydon, ENG is 15-0 with 13 knockouts. Bolotniks, 174 1/2 lbs of Riga, LAT is 18-6-1.

“Most importantly I have to thank God for the victory, different fighters have different things that work for them, I made it clear to you lot that that’s what works for me,” Buatsi told DAZN. “In my changing room I don’t need to hear anything, don’t tell me what I did in camp, tell me Josh is written in the bible. That’s what gears me up when I walk down there, what’s written in the bible.
 
“I’m grateful man, Bolotniks big credit to him he pushed me. I think he said Josh hasn’t been past seven rounds before so after seven we’ll see. I was there until 11 and landed a good shot. I worked every round, but I want to congratulate him – he’s a good champion.
 
“When I sat down, I said, ‘Buatsi who told you to empty the tank, you’ve got six left?’ but I’ve worked hard. You see in camp the sparring is hard man, big credit to my sparring partners they know who they are. I do a hard six run then a fresh one gets in so into the second half I said I’ve been here: I’ve done it before I’ve been here many times in camp.
 
“I’ve got a great team, I’ve got a promoter that believes in me, he’s been pushing for fights like this because he knows I can do it. Tonight, I went out there and showed people I can do it, we just build from here.
 
“We all make sacrifices, I don’t want to single myself out, everyone sacrifices to be where they want to be in life. For me, yeah, I sacrificed, I’m always away from my family and I truly miss them but most importantly I want to get to the top. I feel like I’m in the right team with the right people, I’ve got a great promoter who gives me the opportunities I need. I’ll keep sacrificing.”

Cordina Destroys Hernandez in 1st

Joe Cordina needed just 53 seconds to dispose of Joshua Hernandez in a scheduled 10-round lightweight bout.

Cordina landed a blistering 1-2 that sent Hernandez down for the 10-count.

Cordina, 134 lbs of Cardiff, WAL is 13-0 with eight knockouts. Hernandez, 132 3/4 lbs of Chicago, IL is 10-4.

“Chris Colbert went eight rounds with Hernandez and what I watched of it, it was quite a tough fight for him,” Cordina told Matchroom. “I watched that fight and a couple others of Hernadez and me and Tony came up with a game plan. We were going through in the changing rooms, and it came off a peach.
 
“I had to prove a point, I said in an interview earlier in the week that I don’t take criticism from people I wouldn’t go to for advice. I don’t really value many people’s opinions so yeah, it’s one of those things, you’re going to get people criticizing and it’s whether you take it onboard or not. A lot of people didn’t take into consideration that I’d been out the ring for 16 months, had an operation of my hand, we proved the point tonight and got him out of there early on.
 
“I always look to just get the win, box, if the knockout is there, I’ll take it. As soon as he threw his first jab, I knew he wasn’t going to catch me with that, my sharpness of feet and head movement would get me out of trouble. I started putting my lead hand downstairs and whipping the right hand over the top and I caught him the first time, I knew he was a little bit wobbly. I didn’t want to rush in and try and get him out of there straight away, I knew if I could catch him twice with it there’s going to be a third time and I did exactly that. We got him out of there in great fashion.
 
“I was watching Fight Camp last year and there was no crowd, but even when there wasn’t a crowd it felt like there was a massive atmosphere. When I saw the first Fight Camp week at home, I thought, ‘oh my god I’m fighting there in two weeks, it’s going to be amazing’. I’m glad that I’m able to tick it of my list now. 
 
“Eddie watched me in York Hall in 2009 and said, ‘you’re going to be a World Champion’. It’s nice to hear that but I’ve got to keep improving, keep pushing on and proving him right. I know I’ve got the ability to be a World Champion very soon, but I’ve just got to keep winning. I’ve got the ability to mix it with any of them, it’s just about taking those steps up the ladder to become a World Champion and that’s what I plan on doing. Maybe have two weeks at home, go back to the gym and see what I want to do with Tony.
 
“I know people say it but if you speak to my S&C coach and Tony this was probably one of the best camps I’ve ever had. That’s with the boxing, plus my S&C, everything just came together. Don’t get me wrong I had to be at home for my new-born son but everything’s coming together now. I’m glad I got the win tonight in great fashion and now it’s time to build on it.” 

World-Rated welterweight Michael McKinson remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Przemyslaw Runowki.

McKinson, 146 1/2 lbs of Portsmouth, ENG won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 21-0. Runowski, 146 1/4 lbs of Shupsk, POL is 19-2.

“I’m happy, that was easier than I thought it would be, I didn’t really get out of first gear,” McKinson told Matchroom. “I visibly hurt him a few times, but I boxed to instructions and got the win. To be fair I didn’t think he won a round against me, but he was a tough guy. Him and his team were very confident beforehand, I liked the energy they brought all week, but I just had to show I was a level above, and I was a few levels above – I’m happy.

“They keep giving me harder opposition, they keep telling me it’s a step up and I’m making it look easier and easier. What people forget is I’m learning every day on the job as well; I’m developing and who knows where I can be in a year or twos time. I’m in a position where a lot of boxers dream of being in, all I can do it stay focused, keep learning and keep working my way to the top.

“First time on the A side you know, not many people can say they’ve boxed in Gibraltar and not many people can say they’ve boxed in Eddie’s back garden and done both this year. I can’t moan or complain, I’m really happy and blessed.

“2021 and my career has just started, 21-0 and making it look easy. I really want to keep stepping up, keep challenging myself, keep having more and more tests. I’m still learning but I’m learning quick and finding it easy now. I want opponents that will make me step through the gears, a few times I hurt him there like I can punch, I don’t need to, I boxed to instructions. I didn’t really get out of first gear.

“I believe I’m the best 147 pounder in the country. I like Conor, I get on well with him, but if he can’t get them two guys the Brooks or the Khans, I’m always here. I’ll fight whoever they give me, I’ve never turned down a fight and that’s a fact – I don’t plan on turning down fights. I really do believe in myself, and I believe in my development as well. I’m going to be going to the top I promise you.

“I’m really happy for Liam Taylor because he never really gets a fair ranking and he’s a good fighter so I’m happy he’s got that opportunity. I’m not far behind, I’d like the winner, but I’ll fight whoever makes sense and whoever my management team want to get me next – the answer is always yes. That guy there I just beat took Josh Taylor to points on short notice, he had a full camp against me, his team were so confident talking to me in the hotel.

“Like I said, I make their confidence fade round by round, they don’t call me ‘The Problem’ for no reason. I will carry on being a problem as I step through the levels as the opposition gets better, trust me.

“Josh Kelly has got a lot of ability, he’s a skilful fighter, I like Josh – even after the Avanesyan defeat I still think he’s a top fighter. Florian Marku talks a lot doesn’t he, he didn’t know who I was a few months ago on social media on an interview, he said he didn’t know who I was. At least they’re talking about me now, let him prove himself because I don’t think he’s proved himself at a decent level yet, not saying he’s not a good fighter, but he does need to prove himself as a fighter to be respected. Good luck to all of them, I wish nothing but the best for all my rivals, you know I’m here and I’ll fight anybody.

“Even when we go back to proper arenas and stuff, wait till we get hundreds and hundreds of Portsmouth fans loud and proud. I’ve got great support and it’s always growing; I know there’s a lot of people that didn’t come today but when they’re allowed everyone will see the Portsmouth fans.”

In a battle of undefeated super bantamweights, Hopey Price won a six-round decision over Claudio Grande.

In the closing seconds of the fight, Price dropped Grande with a straight left.

Price, 123 1/4 lbs of Leeds, ENG won by a 58-55 score and is now 5-0. Grande, 121 1/2 lbs of Massa, ITA is now 5-1.

“It was a good performance, considering I had six months outside the ring, which for a young prospect like me isn’t ideal,” Price told Matchroom. “You can spar as much as you want but it’s not the same feeling as when you’re under the lights. Now looking forward, I’ve got Leeds in three weeks, that’s put me in very good stead – you’ll see the best of me in three weeks’ time.

“I remember Dave [Coldwell] shouting at me finish strong, finish strong, and he was just coming in – what we’ve been working on in the gym – I felt like I was catching him with that shot all fight and he just walked onto it lovely at the end and he was gone.

“I’m not fighting these journeyman and people with losing records, that’s a proper fight, he’s 5-0, three knockouts, I’m sure he wanted to be a star over there in Italy. He was coming to win and was defeated, I put a stop to that and gave him his first loss.

“You began to see it, it’s been coming slowly but surely, now over the next year or so you’ll see the best of me.

“I feel like I’m developing more as a fighter under Dave and more as a man – big thanks to Danny Wilson at Boxing Science, he’s making me a lot stronger, and I think you saw it there in the last ten seconds. I’m not just a young kid that people can walk through.

“I want to go right to the top. I don’t want to be a World Champion; I want to be a pound-for-pound star and Dave’s the man to take me there. I’ll keep listening, learning, developing and I promise you I will get there one day.

“I think fighting in Leeds on September 4 shows the confidence and ability – and the confidence my team has in me – to take a fight like that three weeks before and coming through with flying colours, no injuries. I’m ready to go in my hometown in front of 20,00 fans, I’ll steal the show there 100%.

“I’m ready for Zahid Hussain, 100%, I was ready for it back in September and the magic man didn’t turn up. So, we’ll see this time if he comes and if he does, I promise Hopey Price will come out the victor.

“I said it from my second pro fight, I believe there are levels to boxing and my boxing brain is one of the best in Britain. I believe I’m levels above Zahid Hussain.”

Kash Farooq won a 10-round unanimous decision over Luis Gerardo Castillo in a bantamweight bout.

In round five, Farooq was cut under his right eye and Castillo had swelling under his right eye from a headbutt.

Farooq, 117 1/2 lbs of Glasgow, SCO won by scores of 100-90 twice and 100-91 and is now 16-1. Castillo, 116 1/4 lbs of Mexico is 28-3.

“I boxed to the game plan, that was it, you want to get in there and always entertain but I followed the game plan that was it,” Farooq told Matchroom. “I listened to my trainer, and he just told me to box, you couldn’t get any footage of him, so I didn’t know what he was about, I adapted on the night and did what I had to do.

“I showed tonight the other side of me that can box as well. He’s not world class but it’s a different side of my boxing that I showed, he was tough and game. We didn’t know what we were up against.

“If you let anybody hit you, they can punch, he had a bit of sting to his punches, but the name of the game is hit and don’t get hit and that’s what I did in this fight.

“He [Gerardo] can’t speak and can’t hear so it’s something different, people were saying he’s come to win, and this was going to change his life, these types of boys want to win but he was up against me so – I wanted to win as much as he did.

“These boys are coming from nothing, some of them grew up in poverty and it’s a different lifestyle in Mexico – they fight for a living to make their lives better. It’s either me or him and it wasn’t going to be me today.

“It was another learning fight for me, and I’ll progress again, it’s something I picked up – for me it’s just about developing and getting better. This is just another clinical performance by me.

“My job is just to fight, and they tell me what route they’re going to go through. If I had a choice I’d fight [McGregor] but it’s down to them and they’ll make the right decision for me.

“He wants to fight just like I do but he’s got managers telling him what the best options are like I do as well. The next few weeks my managers are going to sit down with Eddie and discuss what the best options are and what route to go down – if it’s that one next then I’m more than happy to take it.

“It is a big fight for Scotland, me and Lee can sell out the SSE Hydro, if it’s the right time and it has a good build me, we can do it. It’s just me and him boxing each other.

“For me I’ll take a few days off but it’s back to training. When I’ll really take some time off is when I call it a day and retire. Now I’ve still got levels to progress, go back to the gym and work on things, it’s a lifestyle in boxing and it a short career, you don’t know when retirement is coming. For me I’m going to put everything into boxing for the next few years of my life.”

Raymond Ford remained undefeated as he stopped Reece Bellotti in round three of a scheduled 10-round featherweight bout.

In round three, Ford landed a right hook that staggered Bellotti. Ford was all over Bellotti and landed a bout 15 unanswered shots and the fight was stopped at 39 seconds.

Ford, 126 lbs of Camden, NJ is 9-0-1 with five knockouts. Bellotti, 125 1/4 lbs of Watford, ENG is 14-5.

“In the third round I was going to start to box and slow it down because I was throwing too many fast, hard shots to hurt him early,” Ford told Matchroom. “My team told me to settle down because we had ten rounds to go and then he came on and ran into the shot. I knew if I didn’t get him out of there when I had him hurt, he was just going to be a tough guy and keep coming forward. When I hit my shot, I had to get him out of there.

“It feels great, one of my dreams that came true, the real dream and goal is to get to these World Championship titles.

“I knew that he [Bellotti] was kind of the bully and everything so I wanted to beat the bully in the fight. I heard a lot about his power, guys saying his power was up there at the top, I just wanted to show I can be a bigger bully and that’s what I did.

“I said yesterday that I was going to handle the pressure. I was just starting to warm up and settle in but the more the fight would have went, the more you would have seen me relaxed and be sharper. I was getting hit by some dumb shots but that was because I was warming up and getting a feel of everything – being back after five months.

“I love it in the UK, all week people have been showing me love so I want to come back and fight here again. I want to be one the greatest to ever do it, not just in my division, I just want to be the best and go down as a legend.

“It’s important to be patient but I feel like I have the skills and I was blessed with the talents I have where I can fight these top guys at a young age. I want to keep stepping up and get these tougher fights.”

Zelfa Barrett stopped Viorel Simion after round five of their scheduled eight-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Barrett dropped Simion with a body shot. Barrett continued to punish Simion and the fight was stopped after round five.

Barrett, 136 1/4 lbs of Manchester, ENG is 26-1 with 16 knockouts. Simion, 139 3/4 lbs of Romania is 22-7.

“It was good to get back out there, a long layoff since February, an active fighter is a god fighter,” Barrett told Matchroom. “As you guys know, my mum passed away in June, so we’ve had a lot going on. I wanted to just go in there and tear him apart, professionally, but they put the reigns on me. Sometimes I was eager to go and wanted to unload on him, but my uncle is the greatest coach, I just listened to what he was saying. He was taking punishment and he didn’t continue the fight. I was putting more pressure on and letting my hands go.   “It’s a thing of believing in yourself, I know I’ve got the punch power and when you hit correct it hurts anybody. We were working on it with the body pad before we came out and the shots just landed, and he went down. The right body shot would hurt any man, so it was about following what I’ve been practicing in the changing rooms – good performance after a long layoff.   “There are some good fighters on this card, I believe I’m one of the best fighters in Britain aside your World Champions, I believe it and I believe in myself otherwise I wouldn’t be here. That fight had to finish like that, if it went 8 rounds, I’d have to be questioning myself as a fighter that’s going to be world champion.   “He wasn’t able to continue, he quit, no disrespect to him but he quit. Making a man quit is better than any knockout because his brain hasn’t shut down, the ref hasn’t jumped in, he’s physically quit. Good little fight, good little stoppage.   “I’m doing it for myself because I want to be a successful man, that’s all I want to be, believe in God and God will make that happen. I’ve got more motivation, my beautiful daughter Amelia and my beautiful mum on me, my brother, and my cousin Wayne, I’ve got three angels watching me. Onto the next one now and thanks to everyone for watching.   “It was better than nothing, I would love to be on about 8 o’clock just looking out, it just brings something out of a fighter that you didn’t think you had. I don’t know, I just love it, you can’t buy that, that feeling that you get, that’s when I’ve had my best performances when there are crowds, and I can feel their energy.   “I’d love that fight [Kiko] in Manchester, I respect Kiko as a person, he’s a cool guy. He believed he won, I know I won, the judges thought I won. We can run it again because I want to, not because anyone else wants to, but because I want to. We can run that again and I’ll look good doing it.   “I’ve just got to keep doing what I’m doing, don’t get me wrong the European Titles out there I’d love to get, because you know you’re ready for that jump. We can’t cherry pick, Eddie’s a man who gives you opportunities and you’ve got to be ready. I’d love a shot at the European, but now I’m just going to rest, spend time with my beautiful daughter. Daddy’s a champ and I’m her champ, on to the next.”

Michael McKinson says he is aiming to steal the show by “dealing” with Przemyslaw Runowski “in style” when he puts his WBO Global Welterweight Title on the line against the Pole on the final weekend of Matchroom Fight Camp this Saturday August 14, live worldwide on DAZN. 

‘The Problem’ claimed a breakout victory over Chris Kongo as he floored his British Welterweight rival to seal a unanimous decision and move to 20-0 (2 KOs) on the undercard of Dillian Whyte’s huge rematch with Alexander Povetkin in Gibraltar back in March. 

The Portsmouth southpaw, who is trained by his father Michael Ballingall and managed by MTK Global’s Lee Eaton, inked promotional terms with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing the following month and believes he finally has the platform he needs to prove that he is the number one 147lbs fighter in Britain. 

Ranked at No.4 in the world with the WBO, 27-year-old McKinson says it’s his dream to fight at Fratton Park – the home of his beloved Portsmouth FC – in a World Title fight one day, and the undefeated contender can take a step closer to making that dream become a reality by defeating former Josh Kelly foe Runowski this weekend. 

“Before the Kongo fight, I was saying that my career would start on March 27^th, and I really did believe that,” said McKinson. “It was my first fight on the big stage, and I was an underdog. A lot of people picked Chris over me. I was seeing all of the polls on Twitter and stuff like that. Nobody backed me to win. I beat him fair and square. Chris is a good fighter, but I proved I’m a better fighter. My career has only just started. I’m on the big stage finally – it took me 20 fights to get here. I plan on staying here. 

“If you look at my record, I’ve dropped my last three opponents in the first round – they’ve all been unbeaten. I think I’ve dropped six of my last seven, or five of my last six. People do underestimate my power. I can dig, I know I can dig. I will prove that to people in the future. That doesn’t matter though, I’m beating these opponents with relative ease. The knockouts will come, and I reckon when they do come, I’ll get a lot more respect on my name.

“In the UK especially there’s nobody like me. I don’t think there’s anybody on my level. I’m still learning a lot and I’m still developing. Each fight I have I’m just getting better and better. Who knows where I can be in a year or two? At the moment I’m happy with my development and I’m excited for my future. 

“I watched Fight Camp last year and at the time I hadn’t caught my break yet and I was frustrated. I was just thinking, ‘I wish I could get on shows like that’. I’m finally here now. It’s great to be a part of Fight Camp but I’m not here to be a part of it, I’m here to really shine and standout on Fight Camp 3 and that’s what I plan on doing. 

“People look at his only defeat to Josh Kelly but since then he’s bounced back very well. He’s coming off a couple of very good knockout wins so he’s going to be confident. He’s going to be game, and he’s going to try and knock me out. They all do. They’re all confident and game and they all try and knock me out. It’s a fight, as long as I’m prepared to the best I can, it’s a fight I can definitely win. It’s a fight I can definitely look very good in winning too. 

“People that know me know that I don’t like sitting at the same level. I’m constantly trying to challenge myself and get harder fights. This fight is a step up. If I want to be pushing on to these world level fighters, then I’ve got to be dealing with people like Runowski in style.”

McKinson vs. Runowski is part of a huge night of action, Light-Heavyweight star Joshua Buatsi (14-0, 12 KOs) steps up against Ricards Bolotniks (18-5-1, 8 KOs) in a WBA World Title Eliminator, Joe Cordina (12-0, 7 KOs) returns in a ten round Lightweight clash with Joshuah Hernandez (10-3, 8 KOs), Hopey Price (4-0, 1 KO) meets Claudio Grande (5-0, 3 KOs) in a six round Super-Bantamweight contest, Glasgow’s Kash Farooq (15-1, 6 KOs) clashes with Luis Gerardo Castillo (28-2, 18 KOs) for the WBC International Bantamweight Title, the USA’s Raymond Ford (8-0-1, 4 KOs) meets Watford’s Reece Bellotti (14-4, 12 KOs) for the vacant WBA Continental Featherweight Title and Manchester Super-Featherweight Zelfa Barrett (25-1, 15 KOs) joins the card as a late addition. 

Dave Allen stopped former world champion Lucas Browne with one left to the body in their scheduled 12-round heavyweight bout at The 02 Arena in London.

Allen landed a crushing shot that sent Browne to the canvas for the 10 count at 58 seconds of round three.

Allen is 17-4-2 with 14 knockouts.  Browne of Australia is 28-2.

After earning the biggest win of his career to date, ‘White Rhino’ said: “I want more now, I’m greedy. I proved I can punch at the highest level. He’s not what he once was but it’s a very good win. A very good win. This tops the Nick Webb night. The left hook to the body was beautiful.”

Dereck Chisora won a 10-round unanimous decision over Senad Gashi in a heavyweight bout.

Chisora landed some power punches throughout, where Gashi did little more then circle to his left.

Chisora won by scores of 100-90, 100-91 and 99-91 and is now 30-9. Gashi of Kosovo is 17-3.

Josh Kelly won a 10-round unanimous decision over Przemyslaw Runowski in a welterweight contest

In round 10, Kelly decked Runowski with a perfect left.

Kelly won by scores of 100-8 twice and 100-89 and is now 9-0. Runowksi is 17-1.

Joe Cordina remained undefeated by taking out Andy Townend in round six of their scheduled 12-round lightweight bout.

Cordina dropped Townend in round six with a flurry of power shots. Moments later, he sent Townend to a knee with an uppercut on the inside. Cordina finished the deal with a hard right and left that sent Townend to a knee again, and the fight was immediately stopped at 2:51.

Cordina of Cardiff, Wales is now 9-0 with seven knockouts. Townend is 22-5.

Conor Benn remained undefeated with a eight-round decision win over Josef Zahradnik in a welterweight bout.

Benn registered a knockdown in round seven with a body shot and won by a referee score of 80-71.

Benn is 14-0. Zahradnik is 10-3.

Josh Kelly says fighting at the Stadium of Light, home to Sunderland A.F.C, would be a dream come true as he prepares to make his ring return against unbeaten Pole Przemyslaw Runowski at The O2 in London on April 20, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US.

The North East sensation has fought in Newcastle twice since joining the professional ranks in 2016, blitzing Tom Whitfield in a round at the Walker Activity Dome and halting Kris George in seven at the Metro Radio Arena, but the ex-Sunderland Academy man wants nothing more than a Wearside homecoming.

“Fighting at the Stadium of Light would be out of this World,” said Kelly. “The Sunderland lads have always backed me throughout my career and I’d love to have an opportunity to repay their loyal support. They haven’t had much to shout about in recent times, so I’d love to put a smile back on their faces!

“Hopefully we can do something up there in the future. A World title fight in my home city would obviously be the dream and it’s something I’m striving for every day. When I was at the Sunderland Academy I always thought I’d play at the stadium one day, but to fight there for a World title would be even better.”

Despite being moved quickly by promoter Eddie Hearn and manager Adam Booth, ‘Pretty Boy’ knows there is a long way to go before serious World title talk, and the former Team GB star is fully-focused on the job at hand later this month.

“I’ve done my research on Runowski and he’s a solid opponent to test myself against, he’s unbeaten for a reason. They breed them tough in Eastern Europe, he looks very confident in himself. He’s strong and fit and he’s done a few ten rounders. I don’t expect him to come over here just to laydown.

“He’s going to keep on me while the fight lasts so I’ll have to keep my concentration and not switch off. I’m looking to dismantle him in style and put on a show to remind everyone what I’m about. This year is going to be massive if everything goes to plan. I’ve got to keep my feet firmly on the ground, continue to work and get the results.”

Kelly vs. Runowski is part of a huge night of boxing in the Capital.

At the top of the bill, Doncaster fan favourite Dave Allen (16-4-2, 13 KOs) faces the biggest night of his career against Australia’s former WBA Heavyweight World Champion Lucas Browne (28-1, 14 KOs) and Derek Chisora (29-9, 21 KOs) clashes with Senad Gashi (17-2, 17 KOs) in his first fight under new trainer Dave Coldwell.

Ilford Welterweight prospect Conor Benn (13-0, 9 KOs) makes his long-awaited return to the ring following a hand injury that has kept him out of action since his first title win over Cedrick Peynaud in July, Brooklyn Middleweight prospect Nikita Ababiy (3-0, 3 KOs) makes his UK debut and Watford Bantamweight Shannon Courtenay fighting for the second time after winning on her pro debut at the Copper Box Arena last month.