FRESNO, CALIF. (April 25, 2024) – U.S. Olympian and former unified super lightweight world champion Jose Ramirez (28-1, 18 KOs) and undefeated knockout monster and super welterweight world title contender Vergil Ortiz Jr. (20-0, 20 KOs) of Grand Prairie, Texas hosted their final press conference in Fresno, California. Joined by other members of the undercard, they discussed their upcoming doubleheader on Saturday, April 27 featuring Jose Ramirez vs. Rances Barthelemy and Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Thomas Dulorme. The event will take place live from the Save Mart Center in Fresno, California, and broadcast worldwide on DAZN.

Also on the undercard is the collision course of the mighty Oscar “La Migraña” Duarte (26-2-1, 21 KOs) and U.S. Olympian and former world champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (33-5-1, 15 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight match. In the night’s championship clash, Unified WBA, WBC, WBO and Ring Magazine Flyweight World Champion Marlen Esparza (14-1, 1 KOs) will put her titles on the line yet again in a bad-blood rematch against the former WBC Champ of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Gabriela “La Chucky” Alaniz (14-1, 6 KOs) in a 10-round championship bout. Opening the DAZN broadcast, NABF Welterweight Title Holder Raul “El Cugar” Curiel (14-0, 12 KOs) will defend his regional title against Jorge Marron Jr. (20-4-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-round affair.

On the preliminary card, Madera, Calif.’s Brian Lua (8-0, 3 KOs) will participate in a six-round lightweight fight against Cancun, Mexico’s Ronaldo “Criminal” Solis (4-4-1, 3 KOs). Figo Gonzalez (5-0, 2 KOs) of Dallas, Texas will square up in a four-round super flyweight fight against Modesto, Calif.’s Alejandro Robles (0-2). On the preliminary card and making her highly anticipated professional debut, Jennah “The Gem” Creason of Visalia, California will make a splash in a four-round welterweight fight against a soon to be announced opponent.

Tickets are on sale and are priced at $225, $150, $100, $65 and $40 plus applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com.
JOSE RAMIREZ, U.S. OLYMPIAN AND FORMER UNIFIED WORLD CHAMPION:
“First of all I want to thank God. It’s always nice to see such amazing stars; my 2012 Olympic Teammates and great fighters like Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Oscar Duarte on the undercard. It’s quite an honor for me to be a part of boxing, and to be a part of boxing in the Central Valley. We’re thankful for all the fans, we’re thankful for all the supporters and the sponsors.

“I am ready for this Saturday. My goal is to get back on top and to get all those belts back. I still feel like I am one of the best 140-pounders in the division. I plan on making a statement on Saturday, and that’s what I was working on in the gym. Thank you to Oscar and to Golden Boy for the opportunity.”
VERGIL ORTIZ, JR., UNDEFEATED SUPER WELTERWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“I don’t have too much to say right now. All everyone should know is that we had a great training camp, trained hard, and had incredible sparring. I like running – I ran a lot. I really don’t have anything else to say aside from that I love Fresno, and I can’t wait for you all to come out and watch our fights come Saturday night.”
OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS:
“We have an absolutely stacked card Saturday night in Fresno. We have a slew of top prospects looking to advance to contender status. We have world championship gold on the line in the Women’s flyweight division. We have a true crossroads match between two longtime Golden Boy fighters looking to rebound and get back on the championship track. And we have two of the best and best-known boxers in the world topping the card in separate fights, looking to impress and take another step towards glory. From top-to-bottom, people aren’t going to miss this barnburner of a Golden Boy card.”

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Ramirez vs. Barthelemy is a 12-round super lightweight fight. Ortiz Jr. vs. Dulorme is a 10-round super welterweight fight. The event will take place on Saturday, April 27 on DAZN live from Save Mart Center in Fresno, California.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #RamirezBarthelemy

FRESNO, CALIF. (April 12, 2024) – In an already jam-packed doubleheader featuring Jose Ramirez vs. Rances Barthelemy and Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Thomas Dulorme scheduled for Saturday, April 27, Golden Boy announced today the collision course of the mighty Oscar “La Migraña” Duarte (26-2-1, 21 KOs) and U.S. Olympian and former world champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (33-5-1, 15 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight match. The decisive fight will feature two hungry title contenders who are looking to prove that they still have much to give to the sport. Parral, Mexico’s Duarte is coming back into the ring after a valiant dance with super lightweight world title contender Ryan Garcia last December; JoJo is coming off an upset split decision loss against Jesus Perez last February. The event will take place live from the Save Mart Center in Fresno, California, and broadcast worldwide on DAZN.

Also on the DAZN broadcast, Unified WBA, WBC, WBO and Ring Magazine Flyweight World Champion Marlen Esparza (14-1, 1 KOs) will put her titles on the line yet again in a bad-blood rematch against the former WBC Champ of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Gabriela “La Chucky” Alaniz (14-1, 6 KOs) in a 10-round championship bout. Esparza has her eyes set to become undisputed champion, however she has “La Chucky” in her way looking for revenge and will plan to give Esparza a nightmarish evening.

Opening the DAZN broadcast, NABF Welterweight Title Holder Raul “El Cugar” Curiel (14-0, 12 KOs) will defend his regional title against Jorge Marron Jr. (20-4-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-round affair. Curiel has been on a consecutive knockout streak, his last outing in January he was seen dismantling Elias Diaz last January.

On the preliminary card and making her highly anticipated professional debut, Jennah “The Gem” Creason of Visalia, California will make a splash in a four-round welterweight fight against a soon to be announced opponent. Creason is USA Boxing’s No.1-ranked, two-time USA Boxing National Champion, and has excelled in a diverse array of combat sports including wrestling, jiu jitsu, grappling and karate. Jennah’s accolades also include becoming a two-time Desert Showdown champion, a Junior Golden Gloves Champion, a Gold/Silver States Champion and a National Silver Gloves Champion. Her corner includes HOF and trainer of the year Robert Garcia and UFC HOF legend Bob Cook.

Also on the preliminary card, Madera, Calif.’s Brian Lua (8-0, 3 KOs) will participate in a six-round lightweight fight, and Figo Gonzalez (5-0, 2 KOs) of Dallas, Texas will square up in a four-round super flyweight fight. Opponents for both will be announced soon.

Media interested in a fight night credential can apply at: https://forms.gle/dXHszVLXctEMJhRW7.
Credential applications are due by Wednesday, April 24.

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Ramirez vs. Barthelemy is a 12-round super lightweight fight. Ortiz Jr. vs. Dulorme is a 10-round super welterweight fight. The event will take place on Saturday, April 27 on DAZN live from Save Mart Center in Fresno, California.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #RamirezBarthelemy

Rolando Romero won the WBA Super Lightweight Title with a controversial ninth round stoppage over late-replacement Ismael Barroso at The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.

In round three, Barroso landed a straight left that sent Romero into the ropes and his gloved touched the canvas for a knockdown.

In round nine, Romero landed a right that staggered Barroso and then put him down with a cuffing right. Later in the round, the two were exchanging in the corner, and referee Tony Weeks for reasons beyond comprehension, stopped the fight at 2:41.

Romero, 139.5 lbs of Las Vegas is now 15-1 with 13 knockouts. Barroso, 139.5 lbs of Miami was a later replacement for reigning champion Alberto Puello, is now 24-4-2.

Puello failed a PED test several weeks ago.

“I’ll be honest, he’s a warrior and he should have been allowed to continue,” said Romero, who improved to 15-1 with 13 KOs and became the 89^th fighter to perform on SHOBOX: The New Generation to go onto capture a world title. “He wanted to keep going and I wanted him to keep going as well.”

“The first punch was when I had him hurt to begin with,” Romero said. “It was right on the nose, it was a little clip.”

“I think it was an injustice to stop the fight,” said Barroso, a late replacement after Alberto Puello,who previously held the WBA 140-pound title, had been stripped of his title because of a failed VADA test. “I was landing the better shots. It was a push on the first knockdown. It wasn’t a big blow or anything. The referee just stopped the fight, and he didn’t say anything. You can see it clearly. I’m the one who’s hitting him. There was nothing clear that he hit me with. I don’t understand why they stopped the fight.”

“I boxed the entire time,” said Romero, who became the second Las Vegas native to win a world title along with Ishe Smith. “I came in a little cold. I got cracked and I got up like a champion and kept going.”

Romero was clear about his future intentions after the fight. “There’s only two fights I want,” he said. “There’s the rematch with Tank Davis. But I think there’s a much bigger option. I want to go after Ryan Garcia. We can do it on Showtime PPV.”

Rances Barthelemy Decisions Omar Juarez

Rances Barthelemy won a 10-round majority decision over Omar Juarez in a junior welterweight bout.

Barthelemy landed 96 of 448 punches. Juarez was 101 of 428.

Barthelemy, 142.5 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 95-95 and is now 30-2-1. Juarez, 142.25 lbs of rownsville, TX is 14-2.

The crowd at The Chelsea rained down boos after the decision was read as many thought that Juarez had done enough to win the fight. “I understand that most of the fans are Mexican here and they were going for Juarez,” Barthelemy said. “But I also had my Cuban fans and they were cheering.”

Barthelemy said he would love nothing more than a rematch with Russell. “I want a rematch even more than a title shot,” he said. “I want that rematch with Gary Antuanne Russell. I want it badly.”

The 23-year-old Juarez had his three-fight winning streak halted. “It is what it is,” he said. “I honestly thought I did enough to win, but all That’s left is keep working hard for next time. My one mistake was not staying on top of him. I should have been more aggressive.”

Sims Jr. Decisions Akhmedov in Thrilling Fight

Kenneth Sims Jr. outlasted former world title challenger Batyr Akhmedov by taking a 12-round majority decision in a junior welterweight Elimination bout.

The two traded hard shots throughout the high-punch count affair. Sims fought that few rounds with a closed right eye.

Sims landed 309 of 832 punches. Akhmedov landed 331 of 933.

Sims, 139.25 lbs of Chicago won by scores of 116-112, 115-113 and 114-114 and is now 20-2-1. Akhmedov, 138.75 lbs of Las Angeles is 9-3.

“This is what I’ve been waiting on for years,” said Sims, who won for the seventh straight fight. “I’m not supposed to be here right now. That’s what they say. Ain’t nobody thought I would be here right now. And I know that I’m the best so at 140 it’s whatever. I’m ready for anyone.”

“I want the winner of the main event. I want that title. That’s it. Whoever wins the main event that’s who I want.”

Akhmedov thought he won the fight after suffering another close loss on the judges’ cards. His previous two losses were also narrow defeats on points. “It’s like every time I don’t stop my opponent it’s like they win,” he said. “It seems like it’s a goal against me. If they reach the 12th round it’s like they already won and they’re already celebrating because the judges give it to them. Look at the punch stats. It’s the third time in a row. I won again. I’m winning rounds, I’m throwing more, I’m hurting him more. He’s surviving seven rounds out of 12.”

Starling Castillo took a hard fought 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Esteuri Suero in a super lightweight fight.

In round nine, Suero was deducted a point for holding. In round 10, Suero was cited for the same infraction.

That was the difference as Castillo won by scores of 95-92 twice and 94-93 and is now 18-1-1. Suero, 139.2 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR os 12-1.

Michael Angeletti stopped Michell Bonquez in round eight of their eight-round bantamweight bout.

In round eight, Angeletti dropped Boxquez when he landed a two rights that was followed by a left. With Bonquez hurt, Angeletti followed up with a hard combination and the fight end the fight was stopped.

Angeletti, 118.2 lbs of Spring, TX 8-0 with seven Bonquez, 118.8 lbs of Fort Lauderdale, FL is 20-4.

18 year-old Justin Viloria stopped Pedro Pinillo in round four of their six-round super featherweight bout.

Viloria pounded Pinillo until the bout was stopped in round four.

Viloria, 127.6 lbs of Whittier, CA is the nephew of former world champion Brian Viloria. Viloria is 2-0 with two knockouts. Pinillo, 129.2 lbs of Cali, COL is 5-2.

LAS VEGAS – May 10, 2023 – Former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy and all-action Omar “El Relámpago” Juarez previewed their 10-round super lightweight showdown before they meet in the ring this Saturday, May 13 live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

The co-main event between Barthelemy (29-2-1, 15 KOs) and Juarez (14-1, 5 KOs) will see a crossroads battle between two fighters looking to put themselves in position to capture a world title at 140 pounds. Already a champion at 130 and 135-pounds, Barthelemy seeks a second attempt at super lightweight glory, while the 23-year-old Juarez hopes to score a signature victory on his way to his first world title fight.

Here is what the fighters had to say from their respective training camps:

RANCES BARTHELEMY

“I know Omar Juarez is a young, hungry fighter who’s going to come out and try to make a statement. But I’m a veteran in this sport, and I’ve been in there with some of the best fighters in the world. I’m going to use all of my experience to my advantage and come out with the victory.

“A win over Juarez would be instrumental at this stage of my career, because I’m still looking for more big fights. It would show that I’m still one of the top fighters in the division and that I’m ready to take on anyone. I’m always looking for big opportunities, and a win on Saturday will help me accomplish those goals.

“I love fighting on SHOWTIME. They always put on great events, and I know that this fight is going to be a great one. I’m excited to showcase my skills on a big stage and put on a show for all the fans watching at home. As you saw in my last fight, I’m not holding back and will be letting my hands fly.

“I feel great. We had a tremendous training camp, and I’m ready to go out there and perform at my best. We worked on a lot of different things to prepare for this fight, and I feel like I’ve improved a lot since my last fight. I went into this camp thinking that this might be my last run, so I trained smart and with a lot of intensity.”

OMAR JUAREZ

“This by far will be the biggest fight of my career. Rances is a former world champion with a lot of experience, and I’m ready for the challenge. I’m confident in my abilities. I’m going to stick to my gameplan and do everything I can to come out on top.

“Although Barthelemy is a little older now, I know he still has a lot of fight left in him, so I’m preparing for a rough battle. I have what it takes to beat him, and the fans will see me at my best this Saturday.

“I hosted training camp in Las Vegas to prepare for his fight and it’s been great. I’ve been sparring with some of the best fighters in the world, and I feel like I’m in the best shape of my life. My coach Rick Nunez has been instrumental in helping me prepare for this fight. In addition, I hired Tony Brady to do my strength training. I feel strong and we have a good gameplan in place for when we step into the ring.

“A win against Barthelemy would be huge for my career. It would show that I can compete with some of the best fighters in the world and that I’m ready for bigger challenges. A win would open a lot of doors and put me in a great position. I know that a victory could lead to a title shot down the line. That’s my ultimate goal, and I’m going to do everything I can to make it happen.

“Everything is on the line in this fight and I’m happy that it will be live on SHOWTIME, where all the fans will get to see a great fight. This will be the turning point of my career where I take the next step toward my dream of becoming a world champion.”

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ABOUT ROMERO VS. BARROSO

Romero vs. Barroso will see hard-hitting Rolando “Rolly’’ Romero battle No. 1 Contender Ismael Barroso for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight World Title on Saturday, May 13 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two additional super lightweight bouts with former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy dueling the all-action Omar “El Relámpago” Juarez in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event, plus top super lightweight contenders Batyr Akhmedov and Kenneth Sims Jr. meet in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator opening up the telecast.

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

LAS VEGAS – April 12, 2023 – Undefeated WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto “La Avispa” Puello will make the first defense of his world title when he takes on hard-hitting contender Rolando “Rolly” Romero on Saturday, May 13 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two additional super lightweight bouts with former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy dueling the all-action Omar “El Relámpago” Juarez in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event, plus top super lightweight contenders Batyr Akhmedov and SHOBOX^® alum Kenneth Sims, Jr., meet in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator opening up the telecast.  

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

“Saturday, May 13 in Las Vegas lines up to be a fantastic three-fight card with intriguing matchups in the stacked super lightweight division, topped by WBA 140-pound world champion Alberto Puello defending his belt against the always-exciting ‘Rolly’ Romero,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The former two-division champ Rances Barthelemy and young action fighter Omar Juarez will meet in an intriguing crossroads co-main event clash, while two of the 140-pound division’s toughest contenders, Batyr Akhmedov and Kenneth Sims, Jr., look to put themselves in position to fight for a world title opening the telecast.”

“This is a big opportunity for ‘Rolly’ and there’s no doubt that he’s going to make the most of it,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “He’s focused on preparing to get back in the ring and I know that he’s looking forward to putting on a great show for the fans on May 13.”

A native of San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic, Puello (21-0, 10 KOs) now fights out of Las Vegas under the tutelage of renowned trainer Bob Santos, who also trains Puello’s childhood friend, former WBA 130-Pound World Champion Hector Luis Garcia. The 28-year-old captured his world championship in his most recent fight, earning a hard-fought decision victory over Akhmedov last August on SHOWTIME. Puello leapt up the rankings in July 2019, handing Jonathan Alonso his first career defeat with a unanimous decision victory that earned him an interim title. He was also successful in his U.S. debut in December 2021, as he scored a unanimous decision victory over Veshawn Owens in Owens’ hometown.

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity I have to defend my world title on SHOWTIME,” said Puello. “’Rolly’ has fought at the elite level, so I’m looking forward to testing myself and showing why I am the champion. I’m confident in my skills and I’m coming with everything I’ve got. This is going to be one of the best fights of the year, so make sure you tune in.”

Part of the Mayweather Promotions stable, Romero (14-1, 12 KOs) is known for his brash talk that he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. Romero returns to the ring for the first time since a May 2022 defeat against three-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez. The 27-year-old followed that victory up with a pair of impressive knockout triumphs, dominating slick contender Avery Sparrow with a seventh-round stoppage in January 2021 before dropping former title challenger Anthony Yigit three times on his way to another seventh-round stoppage in July 2021.

“I’m excited to become a world champion on May 13,” said Romero. “Everyone knows what I bring to the ring. It’s gonna be an entertaining show. I hope Puello comes in 100%, because I ready to show that I’m an elite fighter in this division.”

A native of Havana, Cuba now fighting out of Las Vegas, Barthelemy (29-2-1, 15 KOs) returns after a defeat to Gary Antuanne Russell last July in which many believed the referee waived off the fight prematurely. A world champion at 130 and 135 pounds, Barthelemy owns notable victories over Argenis Mendez, Antonio DeMarco, Mickey Bey and Denis Shafikov. His only other professional loss came in a 2018 140-pound championship rematch against Kiryl Relikh. Barthelemy comes from a fighting family, as he is the middle brother between the younger Leduan and the older Yan, who won a gold medal at the 2004 Olympics.

“I’m looking forward to putting on a good show against a young, hungry fighter like Omar Juarez,” said Barthelemy. “I want to thank everyone who put me in this position and made this fight happen. At this stage in my career, it’s about building my legacy, and that means getting a knockout on May 13. My hands will be flying when that bell rings.”

The 23-year-old Juarez (14-1, 5 KOs) enters the ring propelled by momentum gained from his efforts inside and outside the ring. He enters the fight on a three-bout winning streak following a June 2021 defeat to All Rivera, including 2022 victories over Ryan Karl in February and Austin Dulay in December. A native of Brownsville, Texas, Juarez has achieved recognition in his community by uplifting the state’s youth through motivational speaking, receiving commendations from the Texas State Senate and the Texas House of Representatives for his altruism.

“This is the biggest fight of my life and I’m grateful to my team for making it happen,” said Juarez. “Rances brings a tremendous amount of experience to the ring, so I know that I have to make the proper adjustments as this fight goes on. I know if I win this fight, big doors will continue to open for me. So believe me when I say that I’m coming to win and win impressively.”

Born in Uzbekistan and now fighting out of Los Angeles, Calif., Akhmedov (9-2, 8 KOs) represented Turkey at the 2016 Olympic Games. The 32-year-old turned pro in 2017 and won his first seven pro fights, with six coming by knockout. Most recently, Akhmedov lost a narrow split-decision to Puello in a vacant 140-pound title fight last August on SHOWTIME, with his only other blemish coming in a 2019 action-fight against Mario Barrios.

“I’m looking forward to my return to the ring this May,” said Akhmedov. “My goal has always been to win a world championship and I have faith in myself. The fans know that I’m always in exciting fights, and this matchup is going to be more of the same.”

The 29-year-old Sims (19-2-1, 7 KOs) is one of the hottest fighters in the 140-pound division and can move one step closer to a world title with a victory on May 13. Representing his native Chicago, Ill., Sims has won six-straight outings dating back to May 2018 including triumphs over then-unbeaten fighters Elvis Rodriguez and Keeshawn Williams in 2021. Most recently, Sims dispatched Rock Myrthil in the fifth-round of their December 2022 showdown.

“I’m really excited about this fight,” said Sims. “This is what I’ve been asking for and will bring the best out in me. I believe that Akhmedov won his last fight and should be champion right now. This is not gonna be an easy task, but I will prove that I belong with the big names in the 140-pound division.”

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (August 1, 2022) – LAS VEGAS, NV (August 8, 2022) – After a week to digest his disputed early stoppage to Gary Antuanne Russell (16-0, 16 KOs), Rances Barthelemy (29-2-1, 15 KOs), feels his latest performance will garner him another fight against a big name in the super lightweight division.

“Although I thought my fight against Gary Antuanne Russell was stopped early, I feel I gave the fans an exciting fight.” Barthelemy stated. “I was letting my hands go and I almost got him out of there in the opening round. Orlando Cuellar is my new trainer and he has me fighting in a more aggressive style. I know I have power and I know I can still compete at the championship level. I’m seeking another big fight by the end of the year.”

Barthelemy’s loss to Russel took place July 30th at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York on the undercard of Danny “Swift Garcia vs. Jose Benavidez Jr. live on SHOWTIME, a Premier Boxing Champions event.

“I love this sport and I will always have respect for the referees that work our bouts,” continued Barthelemy. “I just feel that Murdaugh made a suspect decision by stopping this fight. I showed I can compete with the best young fighters in boxing, and I just want an opportunity to close out my career with honor, without any controversy.”

BRROKLYN, NY–Philadelphia-born Danny Garcia (36-3, 21 KOs) handled Phoenix native Jose Benavídez Jr (27-1-1, 18 KOs) throughout 12 rounds en route to a majority decision at Barclays Center. The larger Benavídez seemingly could not find an answer for Garcia, who seemed loose and quick for the contest. The judges scored the bout 114-114, 116-112 and 117-111.

Garcia landed 233 of 746 punches; Benavidez was 117 of 600.

Danny Garcia: 

“I did take a break going through mental things, things went dark (breaking down crying), I went through anxiety, deep depression, just trying to be strong.

“It was the pressure of life, being a good dad, just letting it out right now (crying) because it was stuck inside, it rained on me for a year and a half and the only way to do better is to fight and I’m a fighter, if you battle anxiety and depression, you can get out of it, that’s what I did today. I fought.

I still battle some days, I have dark days, but I try my best to stay positive, but I feel good, I gave the fans a good fight tonight.

“(Angel) was there with me the whole way. I’m nothing without this man.  I thank him every day, to be Danny Garcia again, people ask me all the time, why do I fight? I make a lot of money. Why does Warren Buffett is still making money? I’m a fighter. This is what I do, what I love to do. Hopefully, I don’t become a meme with the crying face.

“I’d like the rematch with Keith Thurman, he took my ‘0.’ I’ll take Lara for the middleweight title at 155 pounds.”

Angel Garcia:

“Love is the key. Love is the key to everything.” 

Jose Benavidez Jr.:

“I’m happy with my performance. I feel like I did good. I’m fighting in his backyard, one of the best, I took his punches like they were nothing.

“I thought I won the fight. But it is what it is, a loss makes you stronger.

“It’s tough, things don’t always go your way, they’re ups and downs. I try to be positive, like when the doctor said I would never walk again. I didn’t let that get to me. The only one that can stop me is me.

“He’s a great personality, we had a hell of a fight. We’re happy to be here.”

Demirezen Decisions Kownacki in a Slugfest

Turkish heavyweight, Ali Eren Demirezen (17-1, 12 KOs) edged Polish-born Adam Kownacki (20-3, 15 KOs) via unanimous decision in their 10-round heavyweight fight. The bout featured mixed displays of heavyweight power and boxing skill, with both fighters taking damage throughout the 10 rounds. Ultimately, the judges scored the contest 96-94, 97-93 and 97-93 for Demirezen.

The two threw a staggering 1766 punches with Demirezen landing 256 of 915.  Kownacki was 276 of 851, but Demirezen landed more power punches by a 239 to 186 tally.

Ali Eren Demirezen:

“I truly love fighting in the U.S. and I love New York so I said before you will see me more on SHOWTIME and PBC.

“I was nervous because he’s a strong fighter and I could be much better but it’s my first time here and he’d fought here before.”

Adam Kownacki:

“I’m a bit rusty, I think he was getting off first in the exchanges, I didn’t’ sit down as much, I think the rust played a part, being out so long

“I was out of the ring since last October, camp was good but I don’t know, I was letting him get off first, I wasn’t moving my feet, I went back to the old me instead of the first few rounds when I was doing good.

“I have two kids, I’ll have a long talk with my wife to see what I want to do. I’ve had so many fights here, so many great memories, I don’t want to go out like a loser. I would like another fight to leave my fans with a win.”

Russell Stops Barthelemy via controversial sixth round stoppage

Maryland son, Gary Antuanne Russell (15-0, 15 KOs) stopped former world champion and Las Vegas native Rances Barthelemy (29-1-1, 15 KOs) in the sixth round their super lightweight 10-round matchup. The opening rounds of the fight featured heavy-handed actions, with both fighters landing powerful shots. The official stoppage came in a controversial manner, as Barthelemy was dropped from a leaping right hook from Russell.  Barthelemy seemingly beat the 8-count and looked ready to continue fighting. However referee Sharda Murdagh waved the fight off at 50 seconds of round six, handing Russell the TKO victory.

Gary Antuanne Russell:

“First and foremost I want to thank God, I want to tell my father up above I did it for him, we’re going to keep it going for pops, I want to thank showtime for letting me participate. I know Rances was a high-grade class athlete and he wanted to continue. Emotions were high. Whether we or bruised or beaten, as a warrior, you always want to continue but the referee was doing their job and if he was allowed to continue it would have been the same outcome.  I would have gotten him.

“It’s the first of many [without my father] I had to have tunnel vision. This is something my dad instilled in us, no matter what you go through in life and death, two things are inevitable, he raised us to be men and well-rounded men. Being thorough means to be prepared, and he prepared us for boxing and for life outside of boxing. I thank my father and I did what I had to do.

“In the sixth round I had him backing up, I knew he was looking for his right cross and I caught him backing up and I shot my hook and put him down, he was buzzed but he wanted to keep going. He’s a warrior.”

Rances Barthelemy:

“No, they shouldn’t have stopped it. I felt good, it was good shot, I’m not denying that, but they shouldn’t have stopped it.

“I got up and told him I’m fine and I’m good to go

“Of course I want the rematch, but with a different referee.”

Orlando Cuellar – Barthelemy’s Trainer:

“I’m unhappy , this was a good fight these fans paid good money to see, how can you take this opportunity away, he’s been down before and gotten up. He’s fought on. You’re supposed to give your fighter every opportunity to continue. The referee took away the chance for both to show their character, for Rances to continue and for Gary Antuanne to show his character by fighting on in a hard fight. You robbed the fans. We want a rematch but with a different referee.”

–NON TELEVISED ACTION–

Ukrainian-born Sergiy Derevyanchenko (14-4, 10 KOs) decidedly handled San Diego native Joshua Conley (17-4-1, 11 KOs) in their 10-round middleweight bought. The fight went the distance, with all three judges scoring in favor of Derevyanchenko. Two of them scored the contest 99-91 and the last scored it 98-92, officially awarding the Ukrainian the unanimous decision.

Vito Mielnicki JR. (12-1, 8 KOs) of Roseland, New Jersey stopped Jimmy Williams (18-9-2, 6 KOs) of New Haven, Connecticut at 2:12 of the sixth round of their 8-round super welterweight matchup. Mielnicki JR unleased a series of strong blows on Williams, forcing his corner to intervene, providing the New Jersey native with another TKO victory.

Philadelphia native Miguel Román (2-0, 0 KOs) and Baltimore-born Marcus Redd (0-1, 0 KOS) fought to a decision in their super bantamweight four-round bout. Both fighters displayed strong technical boxing during the fight. Romàn, however, won the decision, with all three judges scoring the contest 39-37 in his favor.

Junior Younan (17-0-1, 11 KOs) wasted no time in making a statement against fellow Brooklyn resident Dauren Yeleussinov (10-2-1, 9 KOs) . In the first round of the scheduled eight-round the super middleweight bout, Younan unloaded shots on his opponent, not stopping until the referee stepped between the two  at 1:47 of round 1.

Ricky Lopez (21-5-2, 6 KOS) and Joe Perez (16-6-4, 10 KOS) were looking for knockouts in this fast-paced super featherweight 6-rounder. However, the fight went the distance, ultimately leaving the outcome to the judges. Although one judge scored in favor of San Diego native Joe Perez by a 58-56 tally, the two others did not agree, with both scoring it 57-57, ending the fight in a majority draw.

Ismael Villareal (12-0, 8 KOS) of Bronx, New York dropped and stopped LeShawn Rodriguez(13-1, 10 KOs) of Port Jefferson, New York in the sixth round of their eight-round super welterweight bout to maintain his perfect record. Following a knockdown in the second round, Villareal repeated this in the sixth, Rodriguez got to his feet, but was wobbly, forcing the referee to stop the bout.

Dwyke Flemmings JR (2-0, 2 KOs) of Paterson, New Jersey defeated Angelo Thompson (0-3, 0 KOs) of Irvington, New Jersey via TKO in their super welterweight contest. In the first round, both fighters threw hard shots and landed combinations. This continued in the following round, however, Flemmings JR turned up the intensity, backing Thompson down, with the referee officially stopping the bout at 2:32 of the second round.

CAPITOL HEIGHTS, M.D. – July 18, 2022 – Unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell held a media workout in his hometown of Capitol Heights, Md. on Monday, as he prepares to take on former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy in the telecast opener live on SHOWTIME Saturday, July 30 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by two-division champion Danny “Swift” Garcia making his 154-pound debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DSG Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Russell was joined at his media workout by his older brother and new trainer, former WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr., as they look to build on the legacy left by their late father Gary Sr., the patriarch of one of the sport’s preeminent fighting families.

Here is what the workout participants had to say Monday from The Enigma Boxing Gym:

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“I’m up against a fighting style that I believe is similar to Viktor Postol’s. Postol is a little more defensive, but they’re both long and rangy opponents.

“It’s of course a plus that I was able to be the first person to stop Postol. But at our gym and with our family, we don’t magnify fights like these. We pay attention to our credentials, and don’t really worry about what our opponents bring. The way we train, we’re not going to run into styles that we’re not accustomed to.

“With this sport, you have to have diversity in your style. Because you never really know what kind of opponent you’re going to be facing. They might change up their fighting style based on yours. We just strive for excellence and execution.

“In the Postol fight he tried to use his length to keep me at bay. But we executed our game plan. It wasn’t about overanalyzing our opponent, but we saw that we could exploit his flaws. He pulled back a lot and he didn’t want to fight on the inside. We tried to keep ourselves in comfortable positions.

“We train for perfection every day. We know that execution is what wins fights. If our opponent can’t make the necessary adjustments to keep us off them, then that’s on them. This sport is a battle of wits. My will versus your will and my intelligence versus yours.

“My brothers have always been in my corner. We all now are so tunnel-visioned on what’s important. Our motto in the gym is that the ultimate revenge is success.

“If we come out unscathed from July 30, we’ll start working on the next opponent and get another fighter with great credentials in there. We’ll be looking at fighting for the titles. Our goal was to clean out the division. That’s the first goal, then we’ll start moving up to other weight classes eventually.”

GARY RUSSELL JR., Gary Antuanne’s Brother and Trainer

“Our father was not just a magnificent father, but a teacher and a mentor. He molded not just men, but soldiers. He gave us the tools, the skills and the wit to properly maneuver through this jungle that we’re in.

“The biggest thing that our father taught us was versatility. That’s the biggest key with anything you do in life. I’m a great fighter because I’m versatile. A lot of these fighters are just really good at one thing. I don’t want to see someone who’s only good at fighting one style.

“I was always side-by-side working with my father when it came to working with my younger brothers. Even before I was going to fight, if they were on my undercard, I would work their corners as well. I think my father was somewhat always preparing me for this.

“Rances is a great opponent. Whoever wins this fight is getting a big leg up in their career. My brother is looking to take over the division. I don’t think there’s any fighter in the division who he couldn’t beat. He can run through these guys. All he has to do is listen, that’s it.

“Your corner is your last line of defense. As a fellow fighter, I understand that. My brother is still learning to adjust on the fly. He’s learning, but there’s still things left to tweak. 

“My father touched so many people in the sport of boxing and played some role in where so many people have gotten in their careers. Whether it’s fighters or coaches, he was never shy about passing along jewels and information.”

#         #         #

ABOUT GARCIA VS. BENAVIDEZ

Garcia vs. Benavidez will see two-division world champion and Brooklyn fan-favorite Danny “Swift” Garcia making his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 12-round showdown that headlines a stacked tripleheader Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also see Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki returning to the ring to take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, while unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell faces former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.

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

MIAMI – July 15, 2022 – Former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy discussed his upcoming showdown against unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell before they meet in the telecast opener live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, July 30 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by two-division champion Danny “Swift” Garcia making his 154-pound debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DSG Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Barthelemy began training camp in Las Vegas before finishing up in Miami, where he’s currently located. A world champion at 130 and 135 pounds, Barthelemy can move one step closer toward making history with a signature victory on July 30, as he sets his sights on becoming the first Cuban fighter to become a three-division world champion.

Here is what Barthelemy had to say about training camp, Russell and more:

On his recent training camp:

“I started camp in Las Vegas and got in great shape before I made the move to Miami where I reunited with my original coach Orlando Cuellar. For the last several weeks I’ve been training with Cuellar, putting in the proper work to get ready for my fight with Gary Antuanne Russell. I felt I needed to get back to my roots when I first turned pro, so I brought back my first coach, and everything has been great since Cuellar and I got back together. This training camp has been incredible, and I’ll be at my absolute best on fight night.”

On his upcoming fight with Gary Antuanne Russell:

“It’s no secret that I’ll be in the most dangerous fight of my career when I step in the ring with Gary Antuanne Russell. He’s knocked out every opponent he’s faced, so I’m well aware of his power. I believe the work I’ve put in with Cuellar is going to be the difference in me winning this fight. I’m sitting on my punches more and he will have to be wary of my power. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, don’t be surprised if I knock him out.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“This is a pivotal point in my career where if I win, I’ll be back in the running for another world title. Everything is riding on this fight, so the fans can expect to see me leave everything in the ring. This is a must win for me and major doors will open with a victory.”

On fighting in Brooklyn on SHOWTIME:

“I’m grateful to my team and SHOWTIME for giving me another opportunity to fight on the national stage. Barclays Center in Brooklyn has had some amazing fight crowds over the years and I just want to carry the momentum of putting on another electrifying fight.”

#         #         #

ABOUT GARCIA VS. BENAVIDEZ

Garcia vs. Benavidez will see two-division world champion and Brooklyn fan-favorite Danny “Swift” Garcia making his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 12-round showdown that headlines a stacked tripleheader Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also see Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki returning to the ring to take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, while unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell faces former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.

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

MIAMI (July 12, 2022) – Two-time lightweight World Champion Rances “Kid Blast” Barthelemy (29-1-1, 15 KOs) has reunited with his original head trainer when he turned pro in 2009, Orlando Cuellar, for his July 30th fight airing on Showtime against undefeated 2016 US Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell (15-0, 15 KOs) at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

A celebrated Cuban amateur boxer who relocated to Miami, Barthelemy had Cuellar in his corner for his first 14 pro fights (14-0) until he moved to Las Vegas. Barthelemy is back in southern Florida, and he recently met with Cuellar to discuss their reunion.

(L-R) Rances Barthelemy, Glen Johnson, Orlando Cuellar (background), Luis Franco and Ricardo Cordoba from circa 2009

“He knew that he’d have an advantage with us working together again because I know him well and we’ve always had chemistry and success,” Cuellar explained. “I trained him for the first half of his pro career and helped him turn pro. When I first started training him, he was a pure boxer. I showed him how to work the middle and inside distances, using fast combinations to the head, and get in big body shots. We did a lot of body work. I remember things came very naturally to him when I showed him what we needed. I wanted his ring name to be ‘The Natural’ but he would become ‘Kid Blast,’ which also fits him very well.

“Through the years, he’s acquired a high-level ring IQ at top level success using his counterpunching with speed and power. Training is going as good as expected and we’re bringing his A game!”

Cuba native Cuellar, a Florida Boxing Hall of Fame inductee, will be returning home to his roots in New York City, where he started his career as a boxing trainer. The veteran trainer is best known for his work with world champions Glen Johnson and Antonio Tarver.

BROOKLYN – June 30, 2022 – Polish heavyweight star and Brooklyn fan-favorite Adam Kownacki, unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell and former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy spoke of their fighting legacies and desire to make history while previewing their respective matchups during a virtual press conference on Thursday before they enter the ring on Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Kownacki will take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in the 10-round co-main event, while Russell and Barthelemy will meet in a 10-round super lightweight showdown kicking off the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® tripleheader at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. The event is headlined by two-division world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia making his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DSG Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

The 33-year-old Kownacki will return to his home arena of Barclays Center, where he has previously fought 10 times, compiling a 9-1 record in front of the area’s raucous Polish fans. Kownacki, and his longtime trainer Keith Trimble, seek an emphatic victory after back-to-back defeats and a chance to get back into contention for the heavyweight title.

For Russell, he will be fighting for the first time since the passing of his father and trainer Gary Russell Sr. last month. The highly acclaimed rising star will look to continue the legacy of his fighting family and will have his brother, former WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. in his corner for this July 30 showdown. He again steps up in competition to face Cuba’s Barthelemy, who can move closer toward his own goal of becoming Cuba’s first three-division world champion with a win.

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

ADAM KOWNACKI

“This is the biggest fight of my career. I have to win to stay relevant in the heavyweight division. I’m training hard and I’m ready to win.

“Having two kids these last few years has been life changing for me, but I can’t have everything with a cherry on top. I had to make more sacrifices in my life for this training camp to make sure that I stayed focused.

“I never thought I was done after fighting Robert Helenius. My goal is just to always go out there and do my best. My first boxing goal was to win the New York Golden Gloves, and I did that in my first year. My goal, now, is to win the world title, and that’s what I’m working toward.

“I had a good 20 fights, I hit a bump in the road, but on July 30 I’m coming to get a win and then I’m back on the right track. I want to get a world title shot in the next year or two, and with my team, I know that I can get that done.

“It’s going to be a red and white arena out there to support me. It’s going to be another great night. I can’t wait to be back in Brooklyn at Barclays Center.

“The footwork is really what we’re focused on. I remember being in camp with Wladimir Klitschko and being amazed by his footwork. I worked on it a lot back then but I got a little bit away from it.

“The fans are going to get what they always see with me. It’s fireworks. I can’t wait to be back in Brooklyn. Fight night can’t come soon enough.

“For a while, I could go blow for blow and come out on top. The past couple fights didn’t end that way, so we went back to some of our basics. That’s what I have to do to take the next steps.”

GARY ANTUANNE RUSSELL

“My father cornered the market when it came to a lot of this, not just in boxing, but as a leader and a teacher. We don’t want anything he did to go in vain. We want to keep this legacy going on. He knew what he was doing with this machinery and with our legacy.

“He gave us a cerebral insight on not just the world, but boxing. We’re going to take it and run with it at this point. Life has a road that demands not just excelling, but evolution. That’s part of life. We’re going to carry this legacy and information and build off this foundation he left for us.

“As far as our training methods, nothing is different. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. We’re trying to do everything as close to usual as possible. The only difference is my dad’s voice and foul language isn’t here for inspiration. We have to work with what he left us and keep sharpening our tools.

“We have to keep going forward, period. We can’t take a step back. Because that would make all  the sacrifices we’ve made and that our father made, be in vain. We can’t go backwards. As far as training, we’re busting our tails as usual. We’ll be in here in the gym on the 4^th of July.

“A win on July 30 brings us closer to our family goal. We’ve been knocking at it individually, but we accomplish things as a whole, as we should. Beating an opponent of this caliber gets me closer to that family goal.

“As an individual, I just want to wipe out the division. I want all the titles. I’m a superstar, but I’m very humble. There are things that people need to know. I need to spread my wisdom and showcase my talent. I’m definitely going to flourish in my goal and the benefits that it brings. The sky is the limit for me.

“I’m delivering a showcase of excellence, fireworks and a victorious night for me, as usual. We’re keeping that train going and we’re trying to keep that knockout record unblemished.

“If you don’t come into this ring with some type of confidence, then you shouldn’t be in this profession. He should be saying things about knocking me out. But my mentality hasn’t changed. This is just another steppingstone.”

RANCES BARTHELEMY

“I want to extend my condolences to the Russell family. I know Gary and the entire family were always united and very close. I remember being in your city and seeing how close you guys were. My heart goes out to you. As far as the fight goes, I don’t see Gary’s situation as being advantageous to me. I hope that Gary can be at 100 percent so that we can give the fans a great fight.

“I have to redeem myself. I have a very bad feeling about my last fight and I’m just thankful to SHOWTIME for giving me this opportunity and allowing me to showcase my skills and to show the fans that I’m still here and that I’m ready to take what’s mine.

“I still have the hunger. I have two things in my head right now. The first one is redemption, like I said before. The second one is that I want to become the first three-division champion from Cuba. That is my obsession. I pace around the room sometimes just thinking about it and how bad I want to accomplish it. It keeps me up at night. But first, I have to focus on July 30 and stay focused on what I really, really want to accomplish.

“I’m as hungry as ever and I want to emphasize that point. I still strive for more, and I want more, and I’m still capable of so much more than what others think I am.

“I don’t see it like I’m being used as a steppingstone, but rather, I see this as an opportunity, because I can redeem the last fight that I had, which left a very, very sour taste in my mouth. I want to show that I can still be someone who can be counted on in this division to make history out there.

“I need this win to secure my history. Time is running out. I need to go in there and leave blood, sweat and tears in the ring to make sure I can achieve my dreams and my goals and everything that I want to accomplish.

“I want to continue to work on my conditioning and be ready to take on the power from a young and explosive fighter like Gary Antuanne. Our styles clash perfectly. Gary is someone who comes forward and likes to be very offensive, while I’m more of a counter-puncher. So, what they’re going to see is a kind of art inside the ring and you’re not going to want to miss it.”

KEITH TRIMBLE, Kownacki’s Trainer

“We just have to get back to working behind the jab and working on the head movement. We can’t get lackadaisical. You’re going to see better footwork, better movement and Adam working behind that jab.

“Adam truly wants to be that first Polish heavyweight world champion. He’s not just doing this for the money, he’s serious about boxing and about his legacy. 

“In this sport, you’re only as good as your last fight. Everyone wants to dump on you when you take a loss, but we’re just focused on what is in front of us.”

GARY RUSSELL JR., Gary’s Brother and Trainer

“I’ve fallen right in suit as far as training. It’s something I was always doing anyway and was side by side with my father and coaching my younger brothers. It’s easier for me because of the way my father prepared me for this opportunity. We are using everything that has happened to us as fuel and are 110% prepared for whatever comes our way. We are focused and nothing is going to get in the way of what we need to accomplish.

“I got the surgery on my shoulder on April 1. I’m in recovery and I’m getting physical therapy. I don’t know when I’ll be back. We don’t know. As of now that’s all I can say. I’m focused on my younger brother and getting some good physical therapy at the same time.”

#         #         #

ABOUT GARCIA VS. BENAVIDEZ

Garcia vs. Benavidez will see two-division world champion and Brooklyn fan-favorite Danny “Swift” Garcia making his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 12-round showdown that headlines a stacked tripleheader Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also see Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki returning to the ring to take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, while unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell faces former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.

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

BROOKLYN – June 8, 2022 – Two-division world champion and Brooklyn fan-favorite Danny “Swift” Garcia will make his super welterweight debut against exciting contender Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 12-round showdown that headlines a stacked tripleheader Saturday, July 30 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will also see Polish star and Brooklyn’s all-action Adam Kownacki returning to the ring to take on Turkish Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen in a 10-round heavyweight attraction, while unbeaten rising star Gary Antuanne Russell faces two-division champion Rances Barthelemy in a 10-round showdown to kick off the telecast.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and DSG Promotions, go on sale tomorrow, Thursday, June 9 at 10 a.m. ET and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center beginning Thursday, June 9 at 12 p.m. ET.

Pre-sale tickets are available TODAY at 12 p.m. ET until 10 p.m. ET through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com with the code: BOXING

“This card on July 30 has everything a boxing fan could ask for and is set up to deliver compelling action from start to finish,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Philadelphia’s Danny Garcia has established a strong fan base in Brooklyn and will look to give them a show in his 154-pound debut against the always tough Jose Benavidez Jr. The heavyweight clash in the co-main event will be full of action as well, as popular heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki takes on Ali Eren Demirezen with both fighters looking to take a big step up the heavyweight ladder. Plus, Gary Antuanne Russell has garnered recognition as a future pound-for-pound star and can continue to solidify those credentials battling the crafty former champion Rances Barthelemy opening up the action on SHOWTIME.”

A world champion at 140 and 147 pounds, Garcia (36-3, 21 KOs) owns one of the sports’ most impressive resumes as he now seeks to add a 154-pound title to his list of accomplishments. He returns to fight at Barclays Center for the ninth time, where he headlined the first ever boxing show at the arena in 2012 in his SHOWTIME debut. The Philadelphia native’s run through the super lightweight division saw him defeat a string of champions including Erik Morales, Amir Khan, Zab Judah, Lucas Matthysse, Nate Campbell and Kendall Holt. As a welterweight, the 34-year-old added triumphs over Lamont Peterson, Paulie Malignaggi, and Robert Guerrero, defeating Guerrero for a vacant title in 2016. Garcia’s campaign at welterweight included narrow defeats to some of the sport’s most talented and rugged fighters –Keith Thurman, Shawn Porter, and  unbeaten unified champion Errol Spence Jr.

“I feel blessed,” said Garcia. “I’m back like I never left. I can’t wait to return to the ring in front of the fans at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, who have always supported me, and for all my fans across the country watching on SHOWTIME. The ‘Danny Garcia Show’ returns July 30 and you don’t want to miss it!”

The 30-year-old Benavídez (27-1-1, 18 KOs) is the older brother of unbeaten two-time world champion David Benavídez and is trained by his father Jose Sr. A long-established contender, Benavídez moved up to super welterweight in his last fight after dropping a 147-pound title showdown to Terence Crawford in October 2018. Benavídez fought Francisco Emanuel Torres to a draw last November, his first action in just over three years. The Phoenix-native had previously earned wins over contenders such as Mauricio Herrera, Francisco Santana and Frank Rojas on his way to that world title opportunity against Crawford.

“This is a Mexico vs. Puerto Rico matchup and both of us have something to prove,” said Benavídez. “It’s going to be a great fight for the fans. I feel strong and I know I will end this one on fight night. I’m bigger and stronger than he is and come July 30, he will see the difference in power between us.”

The 33-year-old Kownacki (20-2, 15 KOs) returns to the friendly confines of Barclays Center where he has previously fought 10 times, compiling a 9-1 record with five knockouts. Born in Lomza, Poland before moving to Brooklyn when he was seven, Kownacki will step back into the ring after dropping a pair of explosive, fan-friendly fights to Robert Helenius. He owns victories over former world champion Charles Martin and former title challengers Gerald Washington and Chris Arreola. His August 2019 battle against Arreola set CompuBox records for heavyweights in combined power punches thrown and landed.

“I’m very excited to be back in the ring, especially back home in Brooklyn at Barclays Center,” said Kownacki. “I’m ready to show the world that Robert Helenius just caught me at a complicated time in my life, where juggling being a new father and a fighter was a new experience and learning how to manage both was something I needed to learn how to do. For this fight, my family went away to Poland while I’m in camp so I could only focus on boxing. It was a difficult decision to make, but the right one. Demirezen is coming off a couple big wins, so I know he will bring his ‘A’ game, but I need to beat him to be back in the heavyweight mix. Our fight on July 30 will be action-packed with my hand being raised in victory.”

A 2016 Olympian for Turkey, Demirezen (16-1, 12 KOs) has fought out of Hamburg, Germany in the professional ranks since turning pro in late 2016. The 32-year-old won his first 11 pro fights, including a second-round stoppage of Rad Rashid to capture a European heavyweight title in 2018. Demirezen’s first U.S. outing came in 2019, when he became the first person to go the distance against Efe Ajagba, losing by decision. Since that defeat, Demirezen has scored five-straight victories, including defeating former title challengers Gerald Washington in January and Kevin Johnson in May.

“I’m very happy to fight in the U.S. again on July 30,” said Demirezen. “After my big win in Miami [in January], I’m very confident I’m going to give everyone a great fight in Brooklyn. I’m ready for anything Adam Kownacki brings to the ring and I want to make a big statement with a win over him.”

A native of Capitol Heights, Md., Russell (15-0, 15 KOs) will be continuing on the legacy left by his late father Gary Sr., as he belongs to one of the sport’s preeminent fighting families and trains alongside his older brothers, former WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Jr. and bantamweight contender Gary Antonio. The 25-year-old Russell 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. Most recently, Russell added the most impressive professional victory of his career thus far, as he became the first person to stop former champion Viktor Postol in their February clash on SHOWTIME.

When asked about his fight against Barthelemy, Russell cryptically said, “Deforestation is just a phase that shows there’s more space for growth and conquer,’’ and then stated that he would explain what he means after winning this fight.

A native of Havana, Cuba now fighting out of Las Vegas, Barthelemy (29-1-1, 15 KOs) added two victories in 2021, winning a unanimous decision over All Rivera in January before stopping Gustavo David Vittori in two rounds in November. A world champion at 130 and 135 pounds, Barthelemy owns notable victories over Argenis Mendez, Antonio DeMarco, Mickey Bey and Denis Shafikov. His only professional loss came in a 2018 140-pound championship rematch against Kiryl Relikh, with the only other blemish on his record coming via a draw versus former champion Robert Easter Jr. in 2019. Barthelemy also comes from a fighting family, as he is the middle brother between the younger Leduan and the older Yan, who won a gold medal at the 2004 Olympics.

“I’m thrilled to be competing on SHOWTIME, especially against an undefeated young lion like Gary Antuanne Russell,” said Barthelemy. “He’s knocked out every opponent he’s faced, but he’s going to find out real quick that I’m on another level. I’m more determined than ever to take this young kid to school. Don’t be surprised if I take him out, as I’ve been working on my power and explosiveness. The new and improved version of myself will be on display July 30 in Brooklyn.”

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Caleb Plant made another case for a major fight as he won an easy 12-round unanimous decision over former champion Caleb Plant to retain the IBF Super Middleweight title at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.

Plant dominated with his jab and working hooks behind it. Plant went up and down by landing body and head shots with Truax getting in an occasional right hand. Those were very few and very far between as Plant outlanded Truax 179-47.

In round four, Truax began to leak blood from his nose.

Plant, 167.6 lbs of Las Vegas won by shutout scores of 120-108 scores and is now 21-0. Truax, 167.8 lbs of Saint Michael, MN is 31-5-2.

“I felt great. I dominated every round. I hardly got touched. He wasn’t giving me much either,’’ Plant said. “I felt like, early on, he was just looking to survive and move away. Then a third of the way into the fight, I hurt my hand. It’s kind of swollen. I felt something similar before. I’ve got to sit down and get it checked out but we’ll see. I don’t think it will hinder any upcoming fights.
 
“A champion can adjust to anything. It’s about staying focused, staying disciplined and sticking to the game plan. Maybe the injury hindered me here and there but I felt I used it well – I got a dominant victory, a shutout on all three cards.”

“I wanted the stoppage. I’m a little disappointed that my hand got hurt early in the fight. But I feel like I put on a good performance,’’ Plant said. “I feel like I’m the best super middleweight champion in the world. I want to become the first undisputed super middleweight champion. I’m ready for whoever, whenever. You line ‘em up and I’ll knock ‘em down.”

“I’m a little disappointed. I wanted to put pressure on him and make it a dogfight, but he was elusive. He was able to escape out the back door. I wasn’t able to put a glove on him,” Truax said. “I knew he was going to be quick, but he was a little more elusive than I expected. It wasn’t a fast paced fight and credit to him for that. I wanted it to be a fast paced fight and put pressure on him, but he controlled the pace and he was very elusive.
 
“I was never buzzed or hurt. I felt like my conditioning was very good the whole fight. He just jabbed the heck out of me. I’m going to go home and talk to my family and see what the next step is. I still feel like I have something to offer the game.”

Coffie Starches Rock in 3

In a battle of undefeated heavyweights, Michael Coffie took out Darmani Rock in round three of a scheduled 10-round heavyweight bout.

Coffie landed a crushing left uppercut to send Rock down early in round three. Later in the round, it was a left hook that put Rock down and out at 59 seconds.

Coffie, 270.2 lbs of Brooklyn is 12-0 with nine knockouts. Rock, 261 lbs of Philadelphia is 17-1.

“He had quick hands we knew that, but timing beats speed,” Coffie said. “They said he shuffles his feet and drops his hands. They told me to wait for him to shuffle his feet and then drop that left hand on him.”
 
“I don’t want to sound like I’m jumping the gun or anything like that or downplaying the need for experience. But I don’t think I’m that far off. I think I have power, movement, and I think just my style of fighting that can really contend with anybody.”

Joey Spencer remained undefeated with a 1st round stoppage over Isiah Seldon in a middleweight bout.

In round one, Spencer dropped Seldon with a hard right. Upon the fight being resumed, Seldon was deducted two points for hitting behind the head. Seconds later, Spencer dropped Seldon with a hard right and the fight was stopped at 2:15

Spencer, 158 lbs of Union City, MI is 12-0 with nine knockouts. Spencer, 156.6 lbs of Somers Point, NJ is 14-4-1.

“I just knew that I was going to put hands on him, and that’s how I was going to retaliate. I definitely put in the back of my mind that maybe I’d punish him a little further if I would have gotten a chance. But I didn’t. The ref stopped him, and that’s the way it ended,’’ Spencer said. “My man strength is coming. I’m only 20. I turn 21 in March. I’m getting stronger and stronger. I’m getting a lot more confident because people aren’t able to take my punches in the same way.”

Barthelemy Decisions Rivera

Former world champion Rances Barthelemy won a 10-round unanimous decision over All Rivera in a super lightweight bout.

In round two, Rivera was cut on his right eyelid from an accidental headbutt. In round three, Rivera was cut around his left eye.

Barthelemy landed 179 of 548 punches; Rivera was 62 of 367.

Barthelemy, 142.8 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 97-93, 99-91 and 100-90 and is now 28-1-1. Rivera, 143.2 lbs of Santa Rosa City, PHL is 21-5.

“After almost two years of being out of the ring, it was hard making sure we stuck to the game plan to make sure we didn’t get anxious or desperate,” Barthelemy said. “I felt we controlled the fight from start to finish and that’s exactly what we wanted to do. I’m looking at Alberto Puello next, going after that 140 WBA belt and hoping that sets us up for bigger opportunities before the end of the year.” 

Oberlton stops Sharp in 3

Atif Oberlton stopped Nathan Sharp in round three of a scheduled four-round light heavyweight bout.

In round three, Oberlton landed hard body shots until Sharp wilted, and the fight was stopped at 48 seconds.

Oberlton, 177.4 lbs of Philadelphia, was a National Golden Gloves champion, and was making his pro debut. Sharp, 177.6 lbs of Merced, CA is 4-3.

Brandon Lynch and Marcos Hernandez battled to an eight-round draw in a middleweight bout.

Lynch landed 99 of 361 punches; Hernandez was 75 of 525

Lynch won a card 77-75; Hernandez took a card 78-74 and one card was even at 76-76.

Lynch, 158.2 lbs of Los Angeles is 10-1-1. Hernandez, 160 lbs of Fresno, CA is 14-4-2.

LOS ANGELES (January 25, 2021) – Former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy takes on All Rivera in a 10-round welterweight match headlining FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, January 30 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

The telecast begins at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and features exciting light heavyweight prospect Atif Oberlton making his pro debut against Nathan Sharp in a four-round special feature and Brandyn Lynch taking on Mark Hernandez in an eight-round middleweight duel to open the telecast.

FS1 PBC Fight Night precedes the FOX PBC Fight Night broadcast that begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant defending his title against former champion Caleb Truax.

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and Sweethands Promotions in association with Warriors Boxing and will take place without fans in attendance at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

Rances Barthelemy (27-1-1, 14 KOs) is a decorated Cuban amateur who hails from a boxing family that includes his older brother, Olympic Gold Medalist Yan, and younger brother, featherweight Leduan. A two-division world champion, the 34-year-old Barthlemey is moving up to welterweight after campaigning at lightweight where he won a 135-pound title against Mickey Bey in 2016.

Barthelemy won a 130-pound championship by defeating Argenis Mendez in 2014 and attempted to become the first Cuban three-division champion when he moved up to 140-pounds for his first fight against Kiryl Relikh, a title eliminator that he won by decision. He returned to lightweight in his last match and fought to a split draw against Robert Easter Jr. in 2019.

Rivera (21-4, 18 KOs), a 27-year-old southpaw from Bobon, Philippines, is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Rodel Wenceslao last February. This will be the second time that he has fought in the U.S. He lost against Malik Hawkins in Las Vegas in 2019.

Lynch (10-1, 8 KOs) scored a KO victory over Bernard Thomas in his last fight. The 29-year-old Lynch is from Englewood, New Jersey, and is the nephew of famed entertainer Eddie Murphy. He will be making his debut on FS1 in the toughest fight of his pro career, which began in 2016.

Fighting out of Fresno, California, Hernandez (14-3-1, 3 KOs) has faced excellent competition in his career, battling a litany of tough, fellow rising contenders. The 27-year-old Hernandez has twice faced former unified super welterweight champion Jeison Rosario, fighting to a draw in their first meeting before losing the rematch. He most recently lost a decision to Kevin Newman in November 2019, a rematch of a fight Hernandez won in 2017. He defeated then unbeaten fighters in Newman and Thomas Hill in 2016.

Oberlton was the No. 2 ranked light heavyweight amateur in the U.S. before deciding to turn pro. With over 100 amateur bouts under his belt, he had placed second at the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2020. The 22-year old Oberlton hopes to be in the long line of other greats from Philadelphia. Sharp (4-2, 4 KOs), who is from Merced, California, will be a hard-hitting test for Oberlton. All of his victories have come by KO and he will be looking to bounce back from a unanimous decision loss to Burley Brooks in his last fight in 2019.

In off-TV undercard action, sensational lightweight prospect Fernando Molina (4-0, 2 KOs) battles James De Herrera (4-5, 3 KOs) in a four-round match and lightweight prospect Daniel Garcia of Denver, Colorado will make his debut against Joseph Quintana of La Junta, Colorado in a four-round bout.

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

PHOENIX – March 9, 2020 – Undefeated WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Davíd “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez will defend his title on Saturday, April 18 in his hometown of Phoenix, Ariz. against former world title challenger Roamer Alexis Angulo, live on SHOWTIME from Arizona Federal Theatre headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features rising lightweight prospect Michel Rivera taking on Mexico’s Marcos Villasana Jr. in a WBC Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Interim WBA Super Lightweight titlist Alberto Puello faces two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy in the televised opener.

One of the sport’s brightest young stars, Benavidez kicks off his second reign as WBC Super Middleweight Champion by returning to fight in his native Phoenix for the first time since 2015, when he knocked out Ricardo Campillo in just his 10th pro fight.

“On Saturday, April 18, Phoenix’s own super middleweight world champion Davíd Benavidez will return home looking to thrill his hometown fans at Arizona Federal Theatre and further cement his positioning in the 168-pound division,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Benavidez can expect a strong challenge from the exciting Roamer Alexis Angulo, which should create an action-packed main event live on SHOWTIME. Two more fights with title implications add to the intrigue, with fast-rising Michel Rivera barreling toward a championship and two-division champion Rances Barthelemy hoping to pry the title away from Alberto Puello.”

“From the start of his career, long before he became champion, people have been asking me about Davíd fighting at home,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “Now is the perfect time and I’m very happy to help bring this show to Davíd’s hometown. I have no doubt it will not only be a great event; it will also be packed with thousands of fans of ‘El Bandera Roja’ Benavidez.”

“SHOWTIME Sports continues its tradition of featuring the brightest young stars in boxing,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Events Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “At just 23 years old, David Benavidez is one of boxing’s most exciting young champions, and he’s facing a dangerous opponent in Roamer Alexis Angulo, who is hungry for another upset victory. In the co-main event, we have yet another boxing prodigy in undefeated 21-year-old rising star Michel Rivera, who is facing his most challenging opponent to date in Marcos Villasana. To round out the card, we will yet another undefeated young rising star in 25-year-old Alberto Puello, who takes on battle-tested veteran Rances Barthelemy.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com and at Arizona Federal Theatre box office.

The 23-year-old Benavidez (22-0, 19 KOs) defends his belt after defeating two-time super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell in September, stopping him in nine rounds. Benavidez is trained by his father José Sr., alongside his brother and former title challenger, José Jr. In 2017, he became the youngest super middleweight champion in boxing history by defeating Ronald Gavril on SHOWTIME at just 20 years old. Benavidez went from a 15-year-old prodigy sparring with Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin, to world title contender with a 10-fight knockout streak from 2015 through 2017, including a highlight-reel knockout of Rogelio Medina with a seven-punch combination that earned him his first championship.

“I’m very excited to be fighting Angulo on SHOWTIME and in front of my hometown crowd,” said Benavidez. “I haven’t fought in Phoenix in five years. It’s exciting to be back. I expect Angulo to come in ready. I know he just pulled an upset in his last fight and he’s not taking any shortcuts, but neither am I. Angulo has never been stopped, so I want to be the first person to stop him. I feel like I’m more motivated with a hungry fighter like him in front of me, and you will see it in my performance.”

Born in El Bordo, Colombia and now fighting out of Miami, Fla., Angulo (26-1, 22 KOs) enters his second world title opportunity on a three-fight winning streak, including two triumphs over previously unbeaten fighters. Angulo stopped Reinaldo Gonzalez in 2018 in his first fight since losing a decision to then-super middleweight champion Gilberto Ramirez earlier that year. He scored a decision victory this January over Anthony Sims Jr. to put himself in position to again challenge the best in the division.

“I’m very motivated by this great opportunity to fight for the world title again,” said Angulo. “Benavidez is a talented world champion who is clearly one of the best super middleweights in the world. This is going to be a great fight for the fans because of the style I bring to the ring. My Mexican style of fighting will be too much for Benavidez and I will have my hand raised on April 18.”

Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now living in Miami, the 21-year-old Rivera (18-0, 12 KOs) made his U.S. debut on ShoBox in June of 2019 by scoring an impressive unanimous decision victory against then-unbeaten Rene Tellez Giron, who would go on to upset Karlos Balderas in his next fight. The explosive rising star then followed up by stopping Jose Luis Gallegos in September and scoring a vicious 10th-round TKO against Fidel Maldonado Jr. in February of 2020.

Villasana (25-6, 14 KOs) is the son of former featherweight champion Marcos Villasana, and fights out of Acapulco, Mexico. The 28-year-old will make his U.S. debut on April 18 riding a 10-fight winning streak that includes five knockouts. He most recently picked up two victories in 2019, defeating then-unbeaten Roman Villa in April before knocking out Javier Franco in August.

Representing his home of San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic, Puello (17-0, 9 KOs) will make his U.S. debut on April 18 when he faces Barthelemy. The 25-year-old has fought professionally since 2015, defeating a slew of regional contenders and prospects. His most recent fight saw him defeat 2012 Olympian and then-unbeaten Jonathan Alonso by 12-round decision to capture his interim 140-pound title.

A decorated Cuban amateur who hails from a boxing family, Barthelemy (27-1-1, 14 KOs) is moving back to super lightweight after fighting former champion Robert Easter Jr. to a draw in their April 2019 lightweight title fight. The 33-year-old now trains in Las Vegas and has won titles in two weight classes, defeating Argenis Mendez for a 130-pound crown in 2014 and Denis Shafikov for a 135-pound belt in 2015. Barthelemy will look to work his way toward a second world title shot at 140 pounds, which could make him the first three-division champion from Cuba.

Veteran broadcaster Brian Custer will serve as telecast host with versatile combat sportscaster Mauro Ranallo calling the action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former two-division world champion Paulie Malignaggi. Rounding out the telecast team are Emmy® award-winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial ringside scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. David Dinkins Jr. serves as Executive Producer with Ray Smaltz producing and Bob Dunphy directing.

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Robert Easter Jr. and Rances Barthelemy fought to a split draw in a largely uneventful fight for the WBA Lightweight title at The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.

Neither guy engaged as evidenced by Easter landing only 54 of 415 punches and Barthelemy was 52 of 326.

Each guy won a card 115-113 and a 3rd card was even at 114-114.

Easter, 133 3/4 lbs of Toledo, OH is 21-1-1. Barthelemy, 135 lbs of Las Vegas is 27-1-1-1.

“I feel I did enough to win this fight but the judges saw it differently,” said Easter, who was fighting for the first time since losing to pound-for-pound great Mikey Garcia in a unification last summer. “They saw it a different way. Rances is a crafty fighter, an elusive fighter. I tried to take the fight to him but he wouldn’t take it. It was hard to land my shots.”

“Robert was absent in the ring tonight,” Barthelemy said. “I wanted him to land his right and he didn’t. I wanted him to come forward and he didn’t. We were prepared for a different Robert Easter – the one that attacks – but he didn’t show up so I couldn’t deliver my strategy.

“I landed the cleaner and more accurate shots. I feel I threw more punches. I was the busier fighter. I won the fight. I think this was a missed opportunity for me. I really feel I won this fight.”

Former world champion Viktor Postol won a 10-round unanimous decision over Mohamed Mimoune in a super lightweight bout.

Postol, 139 1/2 lbs of Kiev, UKR won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 99-91,and is now 31-2. Mimoune, 138 1/2 lbs of Toulouse, FRA is 21-3.

Postol landed 149-587 punches. Mimoune landed 73-306.

“I always try to be disciplined,” Postol said. “I did well tonight. My opponent’s style was a little awkward, but I did okay. If I could fight a guy like (Terence) Crawford, I can handle Mimoune. And I did.”

After the fight, Postol, who’s only losses came against top fighters Terence Crawford and Josh Taylor, promised to chase the elite of the 140-pound class.

“I want the next big fight,” Postol said. “Doesn’t matter who – WBC Champion Jose Ramirez would be a great choice. I was away for two years so I was a little bit worried before, but now I feel like I’m back. I’m 100 percent back and ready for the next test.”

Efe Ajagba stopped Michael Wallisch in the 2nd round of their scheduled 10-round heavyweight bout.

Wallisch was cut under the left eye in the opening frame. In round two, Ajagba dropped Wallisch with a hard combination. While on his knee, Wallisch was hit by an Ajagba right hand. Wallisch was able to continue, but he only ate more unanswered power shots for which referee Tony Weeks stopped the bout at 1:40.

Ajagba, 241 lbs of Stafford, TX is 10-0 with nine knockouts. Wallisch, 242 1/2 lbs of Germany is 19-2.

“I took my time in there, I used my jab a lot and it worked,” said Agjaba, who landed 43 percent of his power shots. “When I shot my right hand and he took it, I decided to keep unloading. I kept throwing combinations and I knew I was hurting him so I kept doing it.

“I’m happy to be training with Ronnie (Shields). He is one of the best trainers in the world. He helped me with my jab and he’s helping me develop as a fighter.”

Said trainer Ronnie Shields: “I think we still have a lot to learn. You saw he’s a busy guy and for a big guy to throw 93 punches in the first round, it’s a lot. He may be about a year away to becoming a contender. He will get there.”

WBA Lightweight World Title – 12 Rounds

Robert Easter – 133 ¾ lbs

Rances Barthelemy – 135 lbs

Referee: Kenny Bayless; Judges: Tim Cheatham (Nev.), Eric Cheek (Nev.), Glenn Trowbridge (Nev.)

WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator – 10 Rounds

Viktor Postol – 139 ½ lbs

Mohamed Mimoune – 138 ½ lbs

Referee: Robert Byrd; Judges: Robert Hoyle (Nev.); Patricia Morse Jarman (Nev.); Benoit Roussel (Canada)

Heavyweight Attraction – 10 Rounds

Efe Ajagba – 241 lbs

Michael Wallisch – 242 ½ lbs

Referee: Tony Weeks; Judges: Adalaide Byrd (Nev.); Lisa Giampa (Nev.); Ricardo Ocasio (Nev.)

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ABOUT EASTER VS. BARTHELEMY

Former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy will meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, April 27 from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain unbeaten against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

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

LAS VEGAS (April 25, 2019) – Former lightweight champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before they meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight title this Saturday live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. PT /7 p.m. ET) from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Also squaring off Thursday were former champion Viktor Postol and France’s Mohamed Mimoune, who battle in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, plus rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba and Germany’s Michael Wallisch, who meet in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, can be purchased at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas:

ROBERT EASTER JR.

“I’m not here to talk about any past or future fights. Right now I’m focused on this fight against Rances. Come Saturday you’re going to see what I’ve put myself through during this camp.

“Not only have I learned a lesson from fighting Mikey Garcia, but I also learn something new after every fight. I went back home to Toledo for this one and got back to basics with my dad and Mike Stafford. We put in the hard work and you’ll see it on display Saturday.

“This fight is going to be a lot of action and I don’t think it’s going to make it to the final bell.

“I’m highly confident right now coming off of the hard work in training camp. The connection with my dad is so great and all the time we spent in camp is going to pay off Saturday.

“We had a tremendous camp. I’m hungrier than ever right now to get back in the ring and show everyone that I deserve to be at the top. The only dance I’m going to be doing on Saturday night, is to the bank.”

RANCES BARTHELEMY

“I’m excited for this new opportunity that I have in front of me and I’m not going to let it go to waste. I’m taking that belt with me on Saturday night.

“I always have good fortune fighting here at The Cosmopolitan and I believe I’m going to take home the victory Saturday night.

“I take nothing away from Robert Easter Jr., because he’s a great champion. But I can do everything. I can fight on the inside, on the outside, I have power and I’ve fought against great opposition.

“I never dreamed of making it this far, especially coming from where I did. The dream of professional boxing didn’t exist. To be in this position already, it makes me want to keep chasing bigger fights and leave behind a big legacy.

“I have a very competitive fight in front of me. I’ve worked with Joel Casamayor, who has great experience combined with mine. We have great chemistry and I’m ready for everything to come together on Saturday night.

“I thank Robert Easter Jr. for taking the challenge, but I’m going to make him dance to the rhythm of the ‘Cuban Salsa’ on Saturday night. It’s going to get caliente.”

VIKTOR POSTOL

“My team and I had a great camp and I’m excited to be here and see what my opponent is going to bring for Saturday’s fight. I’m ready for a great fight.

“I trained hard like I always do. I have the experience against top fighters and I’m ready to prove that I’m still one of the best.

“I want to become world champion again. I’ve fought much better opponents than Mimoune and it will show on Saturday. My plan is to box, break him down and if the knockout comes, I’ll take it.”

MOHAMED MIMOUNE

“I’m very excited to fight here in Las Vegas and I want to tell the American fans that I guarantee a great fight on Saturday night. I’m coming to win.

“It was a very good camp, and it fully prepared me for war on Saturday night. I’ve worked hard to be in the best shape of my career.

“Every fighter is different, so we’ll see if he’s my toughest opponent once I’m in there. I respect him and I know that he’s a good boxer, but he doesn’t have anything I can’t handle.

“I’ve studied Postol closely and I’m ready to fight. I have the strategy and game plan prepared to get the win. I’m focused 100 percent on getting this win.”

EFE AJAGBA

“This is my first time in Las Vegas and I’m very excited to be here. I’ve been studying my opponent and I know he’s a good fighter. I can’t wait to get in there on Saturday and show off my skills.

“Every time I fight I go back to Texas and start training again. I’m facing a good fighter, but I’ve been preparing for him. I have a powerful jab that I’m looking forward to showing off.

“In one year, or maybe two. I think I’ll be fighting against top guys. We’re going to keep stepping up. This is my first time fighting on SHOWTIME so I’m looking forward to that step.

“It’s up to my opponent how long the fight lasts. I never say I’m going in to knock him out. I have to feel it and find the moment and see what he gives me.”

MICHAEL WALLISCH

“I come from Germany to bring a show to the fans. I love this city already and I want to win so I can come back again. I’m fighting a tough guy on Saturday, but I’m also very tough. May the best man win.

“I had a little less than a month’s notice for the fight but I had already been training and sparring very well. I think that I’m going to bring that great work into the ring on Saturday.

“I think for sure I’m the toughest opponent of Ajagba’s career. I will be the first rock that he has to climb. At heavyweight, everybody has power. We will see on Saturday what he has.

“I trained very hard with Alexander Dimitrenko, who is another tall fighter. It prepared me well and I think we’re going to go toe-to-toe for as long as it lasts.”

ROBERT EASTER SR, Easter’s Father & Trainer

“We were really focused for this camp. We stuck with what we know and went right back to how we started in this sport. Robert loved the camp.

“Robert is hungry. He’s always been a hungry fighter. The loss was a huge lesson for him. He treats every fight like it’s the last fight. I see the fight going our way.”

JOEL CASAMAYOR, Barthelemy’s Trainer and Former World Champion

“I’m very happy to be working with Rances. He’s a great fighter and we’ve been working together to perfect his boxing style. His improvement in a short time has been outstanding.

“We are going to give the fans a surprise. We are winning by knockout. It’s going to be ‘Easter Dinner’ on Saturday night. He better be ready. Rances is bringing the knockout.”

ROY JONES JR. (on working with Mohamed Mimoune leading up to the fight)

“I like a lot of things about Mohamed. He’s a high-energy fighter and because of that, he can do anything that he wants to do. I’ve explained to him that he needs to go out there and be who he is, and not let Viktor Postol be who he wants to be.

“Mohamed needs to take control of the fight and keep control. If he gives control back to Postol, he’s going to feel like he can dominate. You have to hold on to that momentum.

“It’s a very good matchup stylistically. Both guys are tall and long. I think Mohamed beats him in the end because he’s smarter and hungrier. He hasn’t been beat in a long time, and if he dictates the pace, he’s going to win.”

RONNIE SHIELDS, Ajagba’s Trainer

“Ajagba wants to learn everything in the gym. He wants to be the best heavyweight out there. He just turned 25 on Monday, so right now we’re just picking our spots and letting him develop. We’re not trying to force anything. Slowly but surely he’s moving along.

“He’s still young in the game, but I think he could compete with a lot of the top guys right now. It’s a learning process. He needs to take those steps one at a time. We’re at a good pace right now that we’re both happy with. Within another year, he’s going to make some noise.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“What a terrific card we have this weekend from top to bottom. It’s exciting to see young fighters on the rise, former world champions and more making up this great card.

“It’s not too often you get fights like these, with former world champions still in their prime. I’ve seen Robert Easter Jr. mature through the ranks and fight on the big platforms. He came up short in his last bout against another great champion in Mikey Garcia, but I think he took invaluable experience from that fight.

“Anytime you fight on that stage and come up short, you know going forward that you have everything to lose. Robert has a chip on his shoulder and he’s coming to prove that he’s still the man in the division.

“I can’t say enough about Rances Barthelemy. He’s already a two-division world champion with eyes on eventually winning a title in a third division. He knows on Saturday night he has his hands full. These two young guys are fighting for the same thing. They’re both world class fighters coming to show who the better man is.”

# # #

ABOUT EASTER VS. BARTHELEMY
Former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy will meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, April 27 from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain unbeaten against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

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

LAS VEGAS (April 23, 2019) – Former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy and France’s Mohamed Mimoune continued preparations for their respective showdowns at a media workout in Las Vegas Tuesday before they step into the ring this Saturday, April 27 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Barthelemy faces off against former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. for the vacant WBA Lightweight title in the main event, while Mimoune takes on former champion Viktor Postol in a WBC 140-pound title eliminator as part of the action live on SHOWTIME beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, can be purchased at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster.

Here is what the workout participants had to say Tuesday from Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas:

RANCES BARTHELEMY

“The key thing for me to get back to the top, is to get back to my roots. It’s about using what made me a champion and getting back to that. We’ve gone back to our Cuban roots in training with Joel Casamayor and left any distractions behind. You’ll see all of that in my performance on Saturday night.

“Easter and myself are both on the road to redemption coming off of our first defeats. I expect the same Robert Easter Jr. that I’ve seen on tape. He comes forward and tries to fight it out. There’s nothing overly impressive about him to me.

“I’m ready for whatever Robert Easter Jr. wants. If he wants a war, we’ll have a war. Everyone knows I’ve never backed down, but I’m going to win this fight with the intelligence that made me a world champion.

“Casamayor comes from the same streets as me, he knows my style, how I think and how I need to work. We identify with one another a lot so we don’t have to confront each other. With a simple look, I know what he’s trying to tell me. Between him and my brother, Yan, I feel blessed to have two Olympians in my corner.

“To the Cuban people, this will be my best fight and and a strong performance for the Cuban boxing community. I’m going to focus and work hard like us Cubans always have since we were born. I had to grow up through hardships and I’ve worked to show that anything is possible coming from Cuba.”

MOHAMED MIMOUNE

“Postol is one of the best that I will face but I am not afraid. I am confident I will win. I’ve studied him together with my coach and we have a strategy in place that you will see on Saturday.

“I’m very excited for this opportunity. It is every boxer’s dream to fight in Las Vegas and I am happy and ready to show the Americans what I have.

“I have no issues with Postol’s height advantage. I am prepared for it. It is not my first time facing off against a boxer that is taller than me. I have a very good reach as well, but it is my speed that will beat him.

“I have worked very hard after my losses and put all my effort into bettering my performance. I’m stronger and more mature now than ever. I know I have to win and I will win.

I’m looking forward to the opportunity to fight for the world title after I win on Saturday night. I’m dedicating this fight too all French people and I hope they make sure to not miss it on Saturday.”

JOEL CASAMAYOR, Barthelemy’s Trainer

“We’ve been training since mid-February for this fight. It’s been a long three months in the gym together. I see a different Rances. He’s fighting smarter and he’s gotten back to his Cuban roots. That’s what made him a two-time world champion.

“It’s hard to predict, but if it were up to me of course I’d say Rances will win by knockout. From what I’ve seen in training camp, Rances is going to put on a great performance Saturday night. He knows what he has to do.

“We have a great connection throughout camp. I just have to look into his eyes and I feel like I know what he’s going to bring. All the hard work has been done and he’s 100 percent ready for Saturday night.”

MEHDI OUMIHA, Mimoune’s Trainer

“Mohamed Mimoune is an improved fighter who’s shown a lot of new and different skills in training. We have the right tactics to earn this victory on Saturday.

“We are prepared for what Postol can bring, but we’re focused on Mohamed Mimoune being at his best. Everything I have seen in training camp makes me very confident that we’re going to win Saturday and go on to fight for the title.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“Rances has a tremendous amount of experience. If you look at his earlier fights before he became champion and during his championship runs, he’s fought on the big stage time and time again.

“I think Rances’ experience will help in a fight like this, but Robert Easter Jr. has also been in big fights. They both bring a lot of background in exciting, high-quality fights. You have two fighters with something to prove looking to do just that live on SHOWTIME Saturday night.”

# # #

ABOUT EASTER VS. BARTHELEMY
Former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy will meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, April 27 from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain unbeaten against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

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

TOLEDO, OHIO. (April 19, 2019) – Former lightweight world champion Robert “E-Bunny” Easter Jr. hosted a media day in his hometown of Toledo, Ohio Thursday and was joined by the Easter Bunny ahead of Sunday’s holiday. Easter will face former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title on Saturday, April 27 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, can be purchased at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster.

Easter discussed his upcoming matchup before posing for pictures with the Easter Bunny. Here is what Easter had to say Thursday:

ROBERT EASTER JR.

“I’ve put in a lot of hard work this training camp. We’ve been grinding every day. We went hard on the strength and conditioning, I’ve been swimming and doing everything possible to be in top shape.

“Most importantly me and my dad have been getting back on track. We had a little break after the last fight but now we’ve both got our timing down and ready for April 27.

“I train for every fight like it’s a big fight. This time, it really is a big fight. I train hard for every fight, no exceptions.

“I expect Rances to come out and fight. He’s an awkward, crafty fighter who likes to put up a fight. It’s not really about what I expect from him though, it’s about what I’m going to do in there. It’s going to be my tempo.

“It’s big for me to fight for a title and it’s something I put myself in position for with the way I’ve always fought. If I don’t get the knockout, I’m going to beat him down for 12 rounds.

“I’ve always been a tall guy for this division and I’m ready to show everyone that I’m still trouble for anyone out there.

“I got the ‘Bunny’ nickname from my dad. Because both of our last names are Easter, you just cut it down to E-Bunny and that’s me. I’m excited to spend a little time not training on Easter Sunday with my family.”

# # #

ABOUT EASTER VS. BARTHELEMY
Former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy will meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title in the main event of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION Saturday, April 27 from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain unbeaten against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, can be purchased at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster.

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

LAS VEGAS (April 16, 2019) – Former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy discussed changes to his training camp as he nears a vacant WBA Lightweight Title showdown with former lightweight champion Robert Easter Jr. taking place Saturday, April 27 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain undefeated against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, can be purchased at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster.

After losing for the first time in his pro career in a 140-pound title fight against Kiryl Relikh last March, Barthelemy rebounded to stop Robert Frankel in December as he prepared to return to the lightweight division to face Easter. Since the loss to Relikh, Barthelemy made fellow Cuban and former world champion Joel Casamayor head trainer as he looks to return to the championship ranks.

Here is what Barthelemy had to say from training camp at Prince Ranch Bones Adams Boxing Gym in Las Vegas:

How has training camp gone so far?

“Everything has been going well under the guidance of Joel Casamayor and the assistance of my brother Yan Barthelemy and Oscar Vasquez. We have been training twice a day and sparring three to four times a week against solid guys like former world champion and ex-opponent Mickey Bey. Like they say, ‘iron sharpens iron’ and the quality of sparring has been tremendous help in getting me ready for April 27. I feel better prepared both mentally and physically than I did in my most recent fights.”

What do you make of Robert Easter Jr. and what do you know about him?

“I have seen various Robert Easter Jr fights and have been studying him very closely. He’s a great boxer who likes to use his height and reach to his advantage. He’s an ex-world champion who has fought quality opponents. He deserves all of my respect but we are very confident that we will be victorious against him.”

Do you feel you have been able to rebound from your first career defeat?

“Most definitely, I have been able to move on and use that defeat as a lesson in my career. They say sometimes we learn more in defeat than we do in victories and that was the case in that fight.

“Sometimes we do not see clearly when we are winning. Bad habits or little details that need correction are overlooked when you are winning. Sometimes we do not even see them. I feel rejuvenated and we have made many important changes that were necessary for my career. You will see on April 27 that there is still much more left from Team Barthelemy.”

What would it mean to become a champion again on April 27?

“We have no doubt that we’ll become champion again for a third time on April 27. This will bring my name back at the top of the sport with many potential big fights to be made. It will mean so much more to me because Cuban boxing has currently gone through a rough patch and this victory will allow Cuba to have a champion once again.”

Any final message to your fans before your fight?

“Please make sure to tune in on April 27. This fight will be very competitive, with two evenly-skilled former world champions looking to reclaim their status at the top of the sport. Fights like this are what make boxing great. Cuba will have a champion once again on April 27!”

# # #

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 9, 2019) – Former lightweight world champion, Mickey Bey (23-2-1, 11 KOs), has signed a managerial agreement with Prince Ranch Boxing. Bey, who has been dormant for the last few years, recently fought in September of 2018. Before that he lost a split decision on June of 2016, against Rances Barthelemy, relinquishing his IBF title. Bey is looking to get back into world title contention in 2019.

“I’m happy to have a good solid management team behind me with Prince Ranch Boxing guiding my career,” said Mickey Bey. “My goal is to get back on the path to winning another world title, either at super featherweight or lightweight. I feel I can make a run at either weight class. My body is feeling great and my hands are healthy. I’m going to keep grinding in the gym as I await my next fight date.”

“Everyone knows Mickey Bey is a very talented fighter,” said Greg Hannley, CEO of Prince Ranch Boxing. “We are going to get him a few fights to see where he’s at before we step him up. He’s been working hard in the gym and we are happy to bring him on board.”

“I know Mickey has a lot of fight left in him,” said co-manager Oscar Vazquez, who will be guiding Bey’s career with Hannley. “He’s looking really sharp in the gym sparring with world class fighters. As soon as we get him a fight will be making an announcement.”

LAS VEGAS (April 8, 2019) – Welterweights Terrel Williams and Justin DeLoach will square-off in a 10-round attraction, while former world champion Jezzrel Corrales faces Richard Zamora in an eight-round lightweight showdown as part of non-televised undercard action Saturday, April 27 from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The event is headlined by former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy meeting for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title live on SHOWTIME. Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC Super Lightweight Title Eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain unbeaten against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, can be purchased at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster.

Additional undercard attractions feature unbeaten featherweight prospect Javier Encarnacion (15-0, 11 KOs) facing Jose Bustos (14-9-3, 9 KOs) in an eight-round fight, Yovani Rodarte (10-1-1, 5 KOs) and Clay Burns (6-5-2, 4 KOs) squaring-off in a six-round lightweight bout and Los Angeles-native Flavio Rodriguez (8-1-1, 7 KOs) in a six-round super welterweight contest.

Rounding out the action is Los Angeles-native Daniel Guzman facing Mexico’s Hugo Rodriguez in a four-round bantamweight showdown and the second pro fight for Dallas-native Burley Brooks in a four-round light heavyweight attraction.

Fighting out of Los Angeles, Williams (17-0, 13 KOs) most recently dropped David Grayton on his way to a unanimous decision victory in September of last year. He will be opposed by the 25-year-old DeLoach (18-3, 9 KOs), who most recently defeated Michael Ogundo in his first fight at welterweight since 2013. The Augusta, Georgia-native owns victories over Domonique Dolton, Junior Castillo and Christopher Pearson while campaigning at super welterweight.

Representing his native Panama, Corrales (22-2, 8 KOs) won a 130-pound world title by knocking out Takashi Uchiyama in Japan in 2016, before defeating him by decision in the rematch. Corrales will make his lightweight debut in his first fight since losing to Alberto Machado in October 2017 when he battles Mexico’s Zamora (19-3, 12, KOs) on April 27.

# # #

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

LAS VEGAS – (March 29, 2019) – Former lightweight world champion Robert Easter Jr. and former two-division champion Rances Barthelemy will meet for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title on Saturday, April 27 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will also feature former super lightweight champion Viktor Postol taking on France’s Mohamed Mimoune in a WBC super lightweight title eliminator, while rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba looks to remain unbeaten against once-beaten German Michael Wallisch in a 10-round heavyweight attraction.

Easter vs. Barthelemy pits two highly skilled and explosive former 135-pound champions against each other as they look to grab a title and vault themselves back into the top echelon of the lightweight division.

Easter will return to the ring for the first time since losing his IBF title in a unification showdown with WBC Champion and pound-for-pound great Mikey Garcia last July on SHOWTIME. Barthelemy is undefeated at 135 pounds and returns to the lightweight division for his second fight since losing a 140-pound title rematch to Kiryl Relikh last March on SHOWTIME.

“Two former champions looking to reclaim their championship status speaks for itself in terms of the action and will to win that Easter and Barthelemy will bring on April 27,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Both guys have already proven that they have what it takes to take care of business at this level. The eliminator bout, with Postol bringing his experience and Mohamed looking to take advantage of the opportunity, is a great lead-in to the main event attraction. Plus, Efe Ajagba will bring his A+ game in pursuit of a victory over Michael Wallisch. The fans in attendance at the Cosmopolitan here in Las Vegas, and tuning in on SHOWTIME, are in for a treat.”

“Easter vs. Barthelemy is a true 50-50 fight that will end with one of these fighters leaving the ring with one of the top spots in the lightweight division,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Both are former world champions at lightweight and possess the styles and attributes that should make this an action-packed match. Combined with a very competitive title eliminator between Viktor Postol and Mohamed Mimoune, plus the can’t-miss punching power of Efe Ajagba, this is going to be a dramatic night on SHOWTIME and at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, go on sale Monday, April 1, and can be purchased at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster.

The 28-year-old Easter (21-1, 14 KOs) won the IBF Lightweight Championship in 2016 by edging an exciting split-decision against then-unbeaten and current IBF titleholder Richard Commey. After two successful title defenses in his hometown of Toledo, Ohio, Easter defeated former champion Javier Fortuna by decision in a January 2018 fight in SHOWTIME.

That victory set up a unification with WBC champion Mikey Garcia, in which Easter survived an early knockdown to push Garcia the full 12 rounds before coming up short on the scorecards. At 5-foot-11, Easter has continued to show the combination of size, skill and athleticism that made him a highly regarded prospect following an amateur career that featured a spot as an alternate on the 2012 U.S. Olympic team.

“I’ve wanted to fight Barthelemy since he had the lightweight title and vacated it, and now I have the chance,” said Easter. “He has an awkward style and I’m up for that challenge. I am still coming in as the taller fighter with a reach advantage and I’ll use it to make this fight go how I want it to. He is a former world champion and he is coming to bring it just like I am.”

A decorated Cuban amateur who hails from a boxing family that includes his older brother, Olympic Gold Medalist Yan, and younger brother, unbeaten featherweight Leduan, Rances Barthelemy (27-1, 14 KOs) will return to lightweight to vie against one of the best fighters in the division. The 32-year-old now trains in Las Vegas and previously captured a 135-pound belt by defeating Denis Shafikov in December 2015.

Barthelemy won a 130-pound championship by defeating Argenis Mendez in 2014 and attempted to become the first Cuban three-division champion when he moved up to 140-pounds for his first fight against Relikh, a title eliminator that he won by decision. After dropping the rematch to Relikh in a vacant title fight on SHOWTIME, Barthelemy returned to the ring in December and stopped Robert Frankel.

“I’m looking forward to a great fight against Robert Easter Jr,” said Barthelemy. “I know I have what it takes to beat him and capture another title and become a three-time world champ. My best performances have come at 135 pounds. Both of us are former world champions who are hungry and will give the fans a sensational night of boxing. I’ve never lost at lightweight and that will continue on April 27. Don’t miss this fight on SHOWTIME. It’s now or never!”

Originally from Ukraine, but now fighting out of Los Angeles, Postol (30-2, 12 KOs) previously earned a 140-pound world title by knocking out Lucas Matthysse in 2015. The 35-year-old dropped the title in a unification showdown with Terence Crawford in 2016 before bouncing back by defeating then unbeaten Jamshidbek Najmiddinov. Last June he dropped a decision to unbeaten contender Josh Taylor and most recently he defeated Siar Ozgul in November.

The 31-year-old Mimoune (21-2, 2 KOs) has fought professionally since 2010 and will be making his U.S. debut against Postol on April 27. Representing Haute-Garonne, France, he is unbeaten in his last 10 fights dating back to 2014. His last five victories have come in 12-round decisions, including two last year over then unbeaten Emiliano Dominguez and most recently against Franck Petitjean.

Nigeria’s Ajagba (9-0, 8 KOs) gained notoriety last August 24 when his opponent, Curtis Harper, walked out of the ring after touching gloves to start the first round. The 24-year-old, 2016 Nigerian Olympian won the fight without throwing a punch as Harper was disqualified. In his last fight Ajagba, who lives in Stafford, Texas and trains with Ronnie Shields, defeated his toughest competition to date by stopping longtime contender Amir Mansour after two rounds.

Fighting out of Munich, Germany, Wallisch (19-1, 12 KOs) won his first 19 pro fights after turning pro in 2010, including a German heavyweight title-winning performance in 2013 against Alexander Kahl. The 33-year-old fought three times last year, picking up two knockout victories before losing to Christian Hammer in December.

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

BROOKLYN (November 27, 2018) – U.S. Olympian and super welterweight contender Terrell Gausha clashes with battle-tough veteran Joey Hernandez in a 10-round bout and former two-division world champion and Cuban star Rances Barthelemy competes in a 10-round super lightweight fight, while heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba, who is shaking up the division as a fearsome puncher, enters the ring in a six-round attraction all as part of an action-packed undercard on Saturday, December 22 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The stacked undercard leads into a blockbuster PBC on FOX show that features the Charlo Twins defending their world titles, and a heavyweight showdown between Dominic Breazeale and Carlos Negron in primetime. Jermall Charlo, who won a coin toss with his brother to determine their fight order, will headline the show in a 12-round WBC interim middleweight championship bout against Willie Monroe, Jr., while Jermell Charlo will defend his WBC super welterweight world title against Tony Harrison.

Also featured on the jam-packed undercard is middleweight contender Matt Korobov (28-1, 14 KOs) in an eight-round fight and a 10-round super welterweight showdown between Brandon Quarles (20-4-1, 10 KOs) and Todd Manuel (17-16-1, 5 KOs).

The action continues with rising unbeaten prospects and younger brothers of featherweight world champion Gary Russell Jr., as 2012 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell (7-0, 7 KOs) fights in an eight-round super lightweight bout and unbeaten Gary Antonio Russell (12-0, 10 KOs) looks to remain unbeaten in an eight-round bantamweight tilt.

Tickets for the show, which is being promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, begin at $50 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

The 31-year-old Gausha (20-1, 9 KOs) lost for the first time of his career when he dropped a unanimous decision to Erislandy Lara in a super welterweight title match in 2017 at Barclays Center. A member of the U.S. boxing team at the 2012 London Games, Cleveland’s Gausha is looking to rebound against Hernandez.

Hernandez (27-4-1, 17 KOs) has strung together three straight knockout victories since losing to Austin Trout in 2015 on FS1. A 34-year-old southpaw from Miami, Hernandez is coming off a TKO victory over Jose Antonio Rodriguez on August 8.

A prolific amateur in his native Cuba, Barthelemy (26-1, 13 KOs) returns to the ring after the first defeat of his career, in a super lightweight world title fight against Kiryl Relikh in March. The 32-year-old became a world champion in 2014 when he defeated Argenis Mendez to capture a 130-pound title, and became a two-division champion when he bested Denis Shafikov for a vacant lightweight belt.

Ajagba (7-0, 6 KOs) grabbed attention this summer when his opponent walked out of the ring after touching gloves and the bell sounded to start the opening round live on FS1. He is the lone opponent to leave the ring unscathed against the 24-year-old Ajagba, who was a member of the Nigerian boxing team in the 2016 Rio Olympics and will step into the ring for the fifth time this year and for the second time at Barclays Center as a pro.

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Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @FutureOfBoxing, @TwinCharlo, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, @BrooklynBoxing and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

A bantamweight title fight between Nordine Oubaali and Rau’Shee Warren has been added to the December 22nd card at Barclay Center in Brooklyn. Also added will be a fight involving former world champion Rances Barthelemy, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

LAS VEGAS (February 22, 2018) – Unbeaten two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy worked out for Las Vegas media Thursday as he prepares for his rematch against Kiryl Relikh for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight World Title Saturday, March 10 live on SHOWTIME from Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast is headlined by a showdown between three-division world champion Mikey Garcia and unbeaten IBF 140-pound champion Sergey Lipinets.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports and TGB Promotions in association with Leija-Battah Promotions, are priced at $250, $150, $75, $50 and $20 and are on sale now. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000 or 210 556-7390.

Barthelemy, who is trained by Ismael Salas and former world champion and Cuban boxing legend Joel Casamayor, can become the first Cuban fighter to win world titles in three weight classes with a win on March 10. Here is what Barthelemy had to say Thursday from City Athletic Boxing Club in Las Vegas:

RANCES BARTHELEMY

“It’s in my character to take this rematch immediately. I was very happy once I found out everything was ready to go for it. I want to prove to the fans and to myself that I can do much better than I did in May. I want to show Relikh how much better I am than him.

“It’s on my mind all the time that I have a chance to make history for Cuban boxing. There have been so many great Cuban fighters throughout the years. I never imagined I’d be in position to make history myself but I know it’s a reward for my hard work and dedication.

“A fight with Mikey Garcia is something I want. I’m completely focused on this fight against Relikh and making history, but I would be prepared to fight Mikey Garcia soon.

“I’m going to change a lot heading into the rematch. Last May I wasn’t myself. I didn’t feel like I had my legs coming into the fight and I wasn’t able to perform how I usually do. This time my conditioning and nutrition is much improved. I’m going to use my legs and use my jab and put on a boxing clinic.

“There was nothing surprising about Relikh in the first fight. We knew he’d have power, but unfortunately I had to change my game plan when my body wasn’t cooperating. I traded shots and fought his fight. I’m going to stick to my plan this time.

“Throughout my career I haven’t paid enough attention to nutrition. It made my performances inconsistent. Bob Santos has come in and completely changed that. You’ll see my conditioning on fight night is the best it’s ever been.”

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @Ringstar @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.Facebook.com/RingstarSports. PBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

SAN ANTONIO (Jan. 10, 2018) – Unbeaten two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy and former title challenger Kiryl Relikh will both look to kick off their new year with a world title victory when they meet in a rematch for a vacant 140-pound title Saturday, Feb. 10 live on SHOWTIME from the Alamodome in San Antonio in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10:15 p.m. ET/PT and will be headlined by three-division world champion Mikey Garcia (37-0, 30 KOs) taking on unbeaten 140-pound world champion Sergey Lipinets (13-0, 10 KOs).

“Obviously the number one goal for 2018 is to bring home that belt on February 10,” said Barthelemy (26-0, 13 KOs). “Then I want to unify with all the other champions. My New Year’s resolution is to surround myself with good people and win multiple world titles.”

“First I have to win this fight in February,” said Relikh (21-2, 19 KOs). “But then I have hopes of a great year defending my belt against the mandatory and eventually a unification fight. This will be the year I reach a new level in this sport.”

Barthelemy and Relikh will fight for the WBA’s vacant Super Lightweight World Title after their title eliminator bout in May ended in a debatable decision for Barthelemy. This time the fighters will look to leave no doubt with the full title on the line.

“This is my second time fighting for a world title and it will be a second lesson for me,” said Relikh. “This is my time to become champion. I need to do much more during this fight.

“I have to be aggressive right from the start. I’m sure that I need a knockout to get the victory. He can try to run, but he won’t be able to hide from me.”

“Winning this title would be a dream come true for me,” said Barthelemy. “I’d be the first Cuban fighter in history to win a title in three different divisions. The last fight was very close and deserving of a rematch.

“I just need to stick to my game plan and show everyone that I’m the best 140-pound fighter in the world. The key will be to stay disciplined and land hard shots all night.”

Both fighters have sacrificed in training camp on the road to what they hope will be a celebratory moment on February 10, training hard through the holiday season to stay on target for fight night.

“My whole team has done a fantastic job so far in camp,” said Barthelemy. “Ismael Salas and Joel Casamayor are giving me great tips and keeping me focused on my goal. One new thing I’ve added this camp is Bob Santos for nutrition and strength and conditioning. It’s made a big difference over the holidays where I usually eat too much. He’s kept me on a strict diet and training has never been better.”

“These last few weeks through the holidays have been the hardest of my camp, so there was no room for distractions,” said Relikh. “I spent New Year’s with my family and then I was right back into training camp in the morning.”

With two belts in the 140-pound division on the line in the same night, the winner between Barthelemy and Relikh will be in a great position to begin a path toward unification after February 10.

“I will have my eye on the main event for sure,” said Relikh. “I’m focused on Barthelemy now, but I want to unify and if that means fighting Garcia or Lipinets, I will be ready.”

“Garcia vs. Lipinets is going to be a great fight and I definitely want the winner,” said Barthelemy. “Although Lipinets is the underdog going into this fight, I think he’s going to give Garcia all he can handle. But I still think Garcia will come out on top, setting up war between us in a unification bout.”

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @Ringstar @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.Facebook.com/RingstarSports. PBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

SAN ANTONIO (December 14, 2017) – Undefeated three-division world champion Mikey Garcia will attempt to win a world title in a fourth weight class when he challenges unbeaten IBF 140-pound world champion Sergey Lipinets on Saturday, February 10 live on SHOWTIME. The matchup of top-5 ranked junior welterweights will take place at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas and is presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy will face Kiryl Relikh in a rematch of their May showdown on SHOWTIME, this time for the vacant WBA 140-pound world title. The doubleheader of title bouts in the wide-open 140-pound division sets the stage for a potential unification match.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports and TGB Promotions, are priced at $250, $150, $75, $50 and $20. Tickets will go on sale next week and will be available at Ticketmaster.com.

The 29-year-old Garcia (37-0, 30 KOs), emphatically returned to pound-for-pound lists in 2017 by scoring a highlight reel knockout of Dejan Zlaticanin to win the WBC Lightweight World Championship in January and then dominating four-division champion Adrien Broner on his way to a unanimous decision in July. Garcia is a member of a renowned boxing family, and is noted for his sportsmanship and his commanding presence in the ring, honed by his brother and acclaimed trainer Robert Garcia.

Garcia, of Moreno Valley by way of Oxnard, Calif., returned to the ring after a two-and-half-year layoff in July 2016 without missing a beat by stopping former champion Elio Rojas. Garcia, who has held world titles at 126, 130 and 135 pounds, has stopped 19 of his last 22 opponents including Roman “Rocky” Martinez, Juan Manuel Lopez and Orlando Salido.

With a win, Garcia would become only the third fighter in modern history to become champion at 126, 130, 135 and 140-pounds, joining future Hall of Famers Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquiao*.

“It is a dream to have the opportunity to become a four-division world champion,” Garcia said. “San Antonio has some of the greatest boxing fans in the country, including some key supporters of my Robert Garcia Boxing Academy family. Since my last fight, I have stayed in the gym. I can’t wait to give the fans in Texas and those watching at home on SHOWTIME another great performance.”

The unbeaten Lipinets (13-0, 10 KOs) captured a super lightweight world title in just his 13th pro fight by defeating Akihiro Kondo via a unanimous decision on November 4 on SHOWTIME. He is originally from Kazakhstan but moved to Russia when he was six years old. He currently lives in Beverly Hills, California, Lipinets and is trained by Buddy McGirt.

The 28-year-old moved up the 140-pound rankings with victories over then unbeaten Haskell Rhodes, Levan Ghvamichava and Walter Castillo before knocking out Leonardo Zappavigna in a world title eliminator last December. Lipinets will look to stamp his place as an elite fighter when he takes on the accomplished and dangerous Garcia on February 10.

“Getting the title is one thing, but keeping the title is a more difficult task,” said Lipinets. “I’m not about to give it away to anybody. No disrespect to Mikey Garcia or anybody else out there, but I’m keeping my title. Beating Mikey Garcia will put me in the elite of boxing where I believe I belong. I’m happy my team was able to put this great fight together. I can promise you this won’t be a snoozer. It’s going to be an action-packed fight for sure.”

“We’re going to call it’ ‘Undefeated.’ That pretty much sums it up. Two undefeated fighters, champion versus champion,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports. “It’s a big challenge for Mikey Garcia to win a championship belt in his fourth weight class. Lipinets never backs down and he’s out to show that’s he one of the biggest punchers in the division. A win for Lipinets is a game-changer for his family and his career. A win for Mikey is another feather in his cap and will help him be recognized as pound-for-pound best in the world. I’m happy to be back in San Antonio at the Alamodome. I’ve promoted some big fights there. San Antonio fight fans are in for a real treat seeing two of the best fighting each other. I’m sure the fans will embrace this fight.”

“We have another intriguing matchup of two young, hungry undefeated fighters who lay it on the line every time they step into the ring,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “As talented as Mikey is, you can’t count Lipinets out. He’s one of the hardest hitters in the 140-pound division. He’s a tough competitor and there’s a reason why he’s a world champion. He knows this is a career-defining fight and he’s going to do everything he can to spoil the party for Garcia in San Antonio on Feb. 10.”

“In three consecutive fights on SHOWTIME since his return to the sport, Mikey Garcia has solidified his position on boxing’s pound-for-pound lists,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports. “Mikey has proven he’s willing to take on the most avoided opponents in any division as he seeks out the biggest possible matchups in the sport. He’ll face yet another dangerous opponent in Sergey Lipinets, an undefeated champion in his own right, as he seeks to become a four-division world champion. On the heels of Errol Spence vs. Lamont Peterson on January 20, a matchup of consensus top-10 welterweights, we’re proud to deliver this main event of top-5 ranked fighters to build on the momentum.”

Barthelemy (26-0, 13 KOs), who was born in Arroyo Naranjo, Cuba and now lives in Las Vegas, has won world titles at 130 and 135 pounds. He defeated Relikh by unanimous decision in his debut at 140 pound in his last fight on May 20. If he defeats Relikh again, he will become the first Cuban boxer to win world championships in three different weight classes. He defeated Argenis Mendez by unanimous decision to win the 130-pound world title in 2014 and a year later scored a unanimous decision over Denis Shafikov for the 135-pound world title. Barthelemy, 31, has two brothers, Yan and Leduan, who are professional boxers who he trains alongside with under the tutelage of Ismael Salas.

Relikh (21-2, 19 KOs) believes that he won the first match with Barthelemy and that the scorecards did not reflect the competitive nature of the fight. The 28-year-old nearly had Barthelemy out after landing a barrage of punches that penned Barthelemy on the ropes, but he was only awarded a knockdown. In the eighth round, Barthelemy came back to drop Relikh with a body shot. Shortly after the May 20 title eliminator, the WBA ordered a rematch, this time to be contested for the vacant 140-pound title. This will be Relikh’s second world title shot after the fighter from Minsk, Belarus lost a unanimous decision to Ricky Burns in Glasgow, Scotland on Oct. 7, 2016.

*Pacquiao won lineal championships at 126 and 140-pounds, although he did not win alphabet titles.

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
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