Live on DAZN from 8pm ET

8 x 2 mins Featherweight contest

JELENA MRDJENOVICH (125.8lbs)   vs.           JESSICA BELLUSCI (125.6lbs)
Alberta, Canada                                                                   Lombardia, Italy

Followed by

8 x 3 mins Middleweight contest

DEREK POMERLEAU (162.2lbs)           vs.           NATHAN MCINTOSH (157.4lbs)
Quebec, Canada                                                                 Nottingham, England

Followed by

10 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest

ALEXIS BARRIERE (236.8lbs)                  vs.           UBALDO ILAGOR (291.4lbs)
Quebec, Canada                                                                 Atizipan de Zaragoza, Mexico

Followed by

12 x 3 mins WBA Continental Americas Super-Featherweight title

EDUARDO HERNANDEZ (129.4lbs) vs.           RENE TELLES GIRON (131.6lbs*)
Mexico City, Mexico                                                          Queretaro, Mexico

*Giron failed to make weight, title only on the line for Hernandez

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (October 31, 2024): Golden Boy Promotions hosted a final press conference today ahead of the monster clash featuring the the anticipated return of the undefeated Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield Jr. (17-0, 12 KOs) of Austin, Texas who will challenge the gritty Rene “El Bravo” Tellez Girón (20-3, 13 KOs) of Querétaro, Mexico and defend his WBA International Lightweight Title. The 12-round main event is presented in association with Davies Entertainment, is scheduled to take place at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas on Saturday, November 2, and will be exclusively broadcast worldwide on DAZN.

Fighters participating on the undercard were also present at the special conference with a Halloween-spirited Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, Oscar De La Hoya.

In the co-main event, Shoimbek, Uzbekistan’s Bektemir “Bek” Melikuziev (14-1, 10 KOs) will take a massive jump forward in his journey in becoming a world champion in a 10-round WBA Super Middleweight World Championship Eliminator Fight against Golden Boy stablemate of Reading, Pennsylvania, David “Dynamite” Stevens (14-1, 10 KOs).

Also on the DAZN Broadcast, in a historic, Undisputed Female Flyweight World Championship co-promoted with Sampson Boxing, the Coachella Valley’s undefeated IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (14-0, 6 KOs) will challenge Buenos Aires, Argentina’s WBA, WBC, WBO Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “LA Chuky” Alaniz (15-1, 6 KOs) for all the marbles – including the Ring Magazine Flyweight World Title Belt in a 10-round war.

Defending his WBA Intercontinental Super Middleweight Title, undefeated blue-chip prospect Darius “DFG” Fulghum (12-0, 10 KOs) of Katy, Texas, will measure up against Selma, Texas’ Christopher Pearson (17-4-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round match. Opening the DAZN Broadcast, Bakersfield, California’s top prospect and former Team USA member Joel Iriarte (4-0, 4 KOs) will participate in a six-round welterweight event against Albuquerque, New Mexico’s Xavier Madrid (5-5, 2 KOs).

On the Golden Boy Boxing: Schofield vs. Giron Prelims streamed live on Golden Boy’s YouTube channel, Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s Eric Tudor (11-1, 7 KOs) will participate in a 10-round welterweight fight against tough competitor Harold Calderon (28-1, 19 KOs) of Miami, Florida. Representing Waianae, Hawaii, Asa “Ace” Stevens (6-0, 2 KOs) will look to stay undefeated in a six-round super bantamweight fight against Garen “Hellboy” Diagan (10-4, 5 KOs)of General Santos City, Philippines. In a six-round super featherweight fight and also representing Waianae, Dalis Kaleiopu (5-0, 4 KOs) will fight Pharr, Texas’ Manuel Lerma (4-0). Opening fight night and the YouTube stream, Team USA standout and recently signed GBP fighter Jordan Fuentes (1-0) of Fresno, California will fight Roberto Peña (4-4, 3 KOs) of McAllen, Texas in a four-round bantamweight fight.

Here is what the fighters had to say:

FLOYD “KID AUSTIN” SCHOFIELD, WBA INTERNATIONAL LIGHTWEIGHT TITLEHOLDER:

“I’m ready to fight. The preparation was difficult, we had a hard training camp but I’m ready to show what I’m capable of on Saturday. Being a new father has showed me that this isn’t about me anymore, this is for my boy, for my grandma, my team, my father, and Golden Boy promotions. I’d like to thank Rene for taking the fight, but I hope he’s ready to give his life in that ring like I am.”

“I’ve been in the room with Shakur, Tank. I want to give everyone a good fight. I feel like my preparation is getting better, I work hard, I’ve dedicated my whole life to

this sport.”

RENE “EL BRAVO” TELLEZ GIRON, LIGHTWEIGHT CONTENDER:

“I’m so excited for my first main event fight in Las Vegas. I’m ready, thanks again for being here. The truth is that I’m super happy. I just fought in Vegas, but now I’m the main event. I’m willing to do whatever it takes. I’m super happy and grateful.”

BEKTEMIR “BEK” MELIKUZIEV, SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CONTENDER:

“I’m really grateful to Golden Boy and to World of Boxing for this opportunity – to the WBA for allowing us to fight. I’m very grateful to everyone involved in it, and Saturday, we’ll show you a great fight.”

DAVID “DYNAMITE” STEVENS, SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CONTENDER:

“Thank you to Golden Boy for giving me another opportunity. Thank you to my coaches for getting me ready for this opportunity Saturday. I’m ready to fight.”

GABRIELA “SWEET POISON” FUNDORA, IBF FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:

“I want to thank Oscar, Golden Boy, and DAZN. This is going to be a historic fight, being the youngest undisputed champion, male or female. It doesn’t get better than this, especially being in Las Vegas. This is the greatest opportunity that we can have. For everyone watching at home, this is for the history books and something you won’t want to miss.”

“This is something we’ve been dreaming of since we were little. We are doing this in the boxing capital, Las Vegas. It doesn’t get any better than this.”

GABRIELA ALANIZ, WBA, WBO AND WBC FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:

“I’m really happy to be here representing Argentina. We are ready to fight. Nothing about this fight has to do with Marlen. So, I hope she (Fundora) is ready. I am ready to prepare myself for the great fight of my life.”

DARIUS “DFG” FULGHUM, WBA INTERCONTINENTAL SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLEHOLDER:

“It’s going to be a great week and I’m excited for Saturday. We have an awesome show and are blessed with this opportunity. See you all on Saturday.”

JOEL IRIARTE, WELTERWEIGHT PROSPECT:

“This is my fifth fight in eight months. I’m excited to be back and I’m looking forward to putting on a great show. I’m focused, I’m locked in, and I’m ready to give the fans an incredible fight night along with these amazing fighters right here next to me.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDEN BOY:

“I am ready for some great fights. I am ready for Riyadh Season in November which is going to be incredible. But this card here on Saturday night, live on DAZN, is going to be amazing. The card is stacked from top to bottom.”

“I’ve always said that Kid Austin has the it factor to not only be a champion, but to be a star in the sport. He always goes for the knockout every time and is one of the most exciting fighters today. But Giron has never been knocked out in his entire career so I urge everyone to get ready for a fire fight.”

On Fundora vs. Alaniz: “It’s a very special fight, because we don’t get these types of unifications every single day or every weekend in boxing, especially if it’s a women’s unification. This is very, very special and these are two great fighters.”

#

Schofield. vs. Telles Giron is a 12-round fight for the WBA International Lightweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight will take place on November 2 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

Tickets for Schofield vs. Girón are on sale and are priced at $100, $75, $50 and $25 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Suite Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or GoldenBoy.com.

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 #SchofieldGiron

About AEG Presents

Combining the power of the live event with a focus on true artist development, AEG Presents is a world leader in the music and entertainment industries. Operating across five continents, the company has an unparalleled commitment to artistry, creativity, and community. Its tentpole festivals and multi-day music events — which include the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival alongside British Summer Time at Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Hangout Festival, Electric Forest, Rock En Seine, and All Points East — continue to set the bar for the live music experience. AEG Presents promotes global tours for artists such as Justin Bieber, Blackpink, Kenny Chesney, Celine Dion, Elton John, Karol G, Paul McCartney, Katy Perry, The Rolling Stones, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, and Tyler, The Creator, in addition to — through its network of clubs, theatres, arenas, stadiums and renowned partner brands such as The Bowery Presents, Concerts West, Frontier Touring, Goldenvoice, Marshall Arts, Messina Touring Group, PromoWest Productions, and Zero Mile Presents — creating and developing an unmatched infrastructure for artist development and audience reach. More information can be found at www.aegpresents.com.

About The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

Exclusively booked and managed by AEG Presents, The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is a premier live entertainment venue featuring the most highly-regarded talents in music and comedy. Formerly The Joint, the venue has hosted some of the top names in entertainment across countless genres since its inception, including iconic acts such as Paul McCartney, Bert Kreischer, Blink-182, Drake, Guns N’ Roses, Imagine Dragons, Journey, Karol G, Kenny Chesney, The Killers, Machine Gun Kelly, Nine Inch Nails, Prince, Rex Orange County, Santana, The 1975, and countless others.

The Theater provides an immersive setting for guests to experience both legendary and groundbreaking artists on a variety of levels, from intimate performances with 1,800 guests to large-scale, full-capacity experiences with 4,600 guests. Setting the bar for the most luxurious in-venue concert experience, The Theater offers exclusive VIP offerings, including luxury private suites tended by dedicated VIP hosts, top-shelf spirits, a private expedited entry, in-venue merchandise delivery, custom swag, VIP social lounges, and more, guaranteed to give guests an unparalleled live entertainment and VIP experience at every touchpoint. To learn more about the venue’s VIP service or to book, please email [email protected]. For tickets or more information on The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, visit virginhotelslv.com/venue/the-theater.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (October 25, 2024): The complete card has been finalized for the anticipated return of the undefeated Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield Jr. (17-0, 12 KOs) of Austin, Texas who will challenge the gritty Rene “El Bravo” Tellez Girón (20-3, 13 KOs) of Querétaro, Mexico and defend his WBA International Lightweight Title. The 12-round main event is presented in association with Davies Entertainment, is scheduled to take place at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas on Saturday, November 2, and will be exclusively broadcast worldwide on DAZN.

Tickets for Schofield vs. Girón are on sale and are priced at $100, $75, $50 and $25 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Suite Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or GoldenBoy.com.

In the co-main event, Shoimbek, Uzbekistan’s Bektemir “Bek” Melikuziev (14-1, 10 KOs) will take a massive jump forward in his journey in becoming a world champion in a 10-round WBA Super Middleweight World Championship Eliminator Fight against Golden Boy stablemate of Reading, Pennsylvania, David “Dynamite” Stevens (14-1, 10 KOs). With identical records, both fighters are coming off knockout victories.

Also on the DAZN Broadcast, in a historic, Undisputed Female Flyweight World Championship co-promoted with Sampson Boxing, the Coachella Valley’s undefeated IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (14-0, 6 KOs) will challenge Buenos Aires, Argentina’s WBA, WBC, WBO Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “LA Chuky” Alaniz (15-1, 6 KOs) for all the marbles – including the Ring Magazine Flyweight World Title Belt in a 10-round war. To date, there has never been an undisputed female champion in the flyweight division.

Defending his WBA Intercontinental Super Middleweight Title, undefeated blue-chip prospect Darius “DFG” Fulghum (12-0, 10 KOs) of Katy, Texas, will measure up against Selma, Texas’ Christopher Pearson (17-4-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round match. Opening the DAZN Broadcast, Bakersfield, California’s top prospect and former Team USA member Joel Iriarte (4-0, 4 KOs) will participate in a six-round welterweight event against Albuquerque, New Mexico’s Xavier Madrid (5-5, 2 KOs).

On the Golden Boy Boxing: Schofield vs. Giron Prelims streamed live on Golden Boy’s YouTube channel, Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s Eric Tudor (11-1, 7 KOs) is on a redemptive comeback tour and will participate in a 10-round welterweight fight against tough competitor Harold Calderon (28-1, 19 KOs) of Miami, Florida. In a six-round super bantamweight fight, Gael Cabrera (5-0, 3 KOs) of Sonora Mexico will fight a soon to be announced opponent.

Representing Waianae, Hawaii, Asa “Ace” Stevens (6-0, 2 KOs) will look to stay undefeated in a six-round super bantamweight fight against a soon to be announced opponent. In a six-round super featherweight fight and also representing Waianae, Dalis Kaleiopu (5-0, 4 KOs) will fight Pharr, Texas’ Manuel Lerma (4-0). Opening fight night and the YouTube stream, Team USA standout and recently signed GBP fighter Jordan Fuentes (1-0) of Fresno, California will fight Roberto Peña (4-4, 3 KOs) of McAllen, Texas in a four-round bantamweight fight.

Media interested in applying for a credential can apply by clicking HERE. Media credential applications are due by EOD, October 25, 2024.

#

Schofield. vs. Telles Giron is a 12-round fight for the WBA International Lightweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight will take place on November 2 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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 #SchofieldGiron

About AEG Presents

Combining the power of the live event with a focus on true artist development, AEG Presents is a world leader in the music and entertainment industries. Operating across five continents, the company has an unparalleled commitment to artistry, creativity, and community. Its tentpole festivals and multi-day music events — which include the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival alongside British Summer Time at Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Hangout Festival, Electric Forest, Rock En Seine, and All Points East — continue to set the bar for the live music experience. AEG Presents promotes global tours for artists such as Justin Bieber, Blackpink, Kenny Chesney, Celine Dion, Elton John, Karol G, Paul McCartney, Katy Perry, The Rolling Stones, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, and Tyler, The Creator, in addition to — through its network of clubs, theatres, arenas, stadiums and renowned partner brands such as The Bowery Presents, Concerts West, Frontier Touring, Goldenvoice, Marshall Arts, Messina Touring Group, PromoWest Productions, and Zero Mile Presents — creating and developing an unmatched infrastructure for artist development and audience reach. More information can be found at www.aegpresents.com.

About The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

Exclusively booked and managed by AEG Presents, The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is a premier live entertainment venue featuring the most highly-regarded talents in music and comedy. Formerly The Joint, the venue has hosted some of the top names in entertainment across countless genres since its inception, including iconic acts such as Paul McCartney, Bert Kreischer, Blink-182, Drake, Guns N’ Roses, Imagine Dragons, Journey, Karol G, Kenny Chesney, The Killers, Machine Gun Kelly, Nine Inch Nails, Prince, Rex Orange County, Santana, The 1975, and countless others.

The Theater provides an immersive setting for guests to experience both legendary and groundbreaking artists on a variety of levels, from intimate performances with 1,800 guests to large-scale, full-capacity experiences with 4,600 guests. Setting the bar for the most luxurious in-venue concert experience, The Theater offers exclusive VIP offerings, including luxury private suites tended by dedicated VIP hosts, top-shelf spirits, a private expedited entry, in-venue merchandise delivery, custom swag, VIP social lounges, and more, guaranteed to give guests an unparalleled live entertainment and VIP experience at every touchpoint. To learn more about the venue’s VIP service or to book, please email [email protected]. For tickets or more information on The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, visit virginhotelslv.com/venue/the-theater.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (October 7, 2024): The undefeated Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield Jr. (17-0, 12 KOs) of Austin, Texas will make his anticipated return to the ring in a 12-round fight against the gritty Rene “El Bravo” Tellez Girón (20-3, 13 KOs) of Querétaro, Mexico, for the WBA International Lightweight Title. The event, presented in association with Davies Entertainment, is scheduled to take place at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas on Saturday, November 2, and exclusively broadcast worldwide on DAZN.

“I am beyond excited for my return to the ring as the official main event, and to show the world what I’ve been working on,” said Floyd Schofield Jr. “My goal is simple: become a world champion. My opponent has measured up against some tough contenders and will be looking to steal the show, but we won’t let him do that this time around.”

Schofield Jr. made his professional debut on October 9, 2020 with a skilled knockout over Richard Esquibel. Since then, he has quickly built out his undefeated, professional portfolio with a series of knockout wins. He was last seen in the ring successfully defending his WBA International Lightweight title against the unconventional Esteuri Suero who was disqualified in the fifth round for a low blow, an accumulation of point deductions, and poor sportsmanship. No stranger to overcoming adversity, Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield Jr. battled through poverty and homelessness to become one of the hottest world title contenders in the lightweight division. A pugilist working out of Davies Boxing and Fitness in San Antonio, Texas, his training and sparring resume features a long list of current and up-and-coming world champions.

“I’m so excited about this fight, like none other so far in my career. Floyd Schofield, he’s just another big name guy in my way to the top of the lightweight division,” said Rene Telles Girón. “I will win, my preparation is always great, that’s why I just scored two big wins in my last two fights. I like upsets, I’m that guy that will take your heart. I’m a proud fighter of Mexico, I will win this fight for my country, I’m tough.”

Rene Telles Girón, born and raised in Querétaro, Mexico, was last seen in a brutal demolishing of Alex Dilmaghani via seventh-round stoppage. His career took off with a series of victories in the regional circuit, where he displayed impressive knockout power and strategic prowess. Girón is recognized for his disciplined approach, exceptional footwork, and a strong defensive game, which has earned him respect from both peers and opponents.

“I’ve always said that “Kid Austin” has the “it” factor to not only be a champion, but to be a global superstar,“ said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya. “Everyone knows that Schofield goes for the KO every time, but Girón has never been knocked out. This will be a real test for Floyd as he looks to continue his rise up the rankings.”

Tickets for Schofield vs Girón will go on-sale Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. PT and are priced at $100, $75, $50 and $25 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Suite Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or GoldenBoy.com. An exclusive pre-sale is available through AXS.com beginning today from 10:00 a.m. PT until 10:00 p.m. PT with Code: GBPVEGAS.

In the co-main event, Shoimbek, Uzbekistan’s Bektemir “Bek” Melikuziev (14-1, 10 KOs) will take a massive jump forward in his journey in becoming a world champion in a 10-round WBA Super Middleweight World Championship Eliminator Fight against Golden Boy stablemate of Reading, Pennsylvania, David “Dynamite” Stevens (14-1, 10 KOs). With identical records, both fighters are coming off knockout victories.

Also on the DAZN Broadcast, in a historic, Undisputed Female Flyweight World Championship co-promoted with Sampson Boxing, the Coachella Valley’s undefeated IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (14-0, 6 KOs) will challenge Buenos Aires, Argentina’s WBA, WBC, WBO Flyweight World Champion Gabriela “LA Chuky” Alaniz (15-1, 6 KOs) for all the marbles – including the Ring Magazine Flyweight World Title Belt in a 10-round war. To date, there has never been an undisputed female champion in the flyweight division.

Defending his WBA Intercontinental Super Middleweight Title, undefeated blue-chip prospect Darius “DFG” Fulghum (12-0, 10 KOs) of Katy, Texas, will measure up against Selma, Texas’ Christopher Pearson (17-4-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round match. Opening the DAZN Broadcast, Bakersfield, California’s top prospect and former Team USA member Joel Iriarte (4-0, 4 KOs) will participate in a six-round lightweight event against a soon to be announced opponent.

More information on the preliminary undercard will be announced in the upcoming weeks.

Media interested in applying for a credential can apply by clicking HERE. Media credential applications are due by EOD, October 25, 2024.

#

Schofield. vs. Telles Giron is a 12-round fight for the WBA International Lightweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight will take place on November 2 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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 #SchofieldGiron

About AEG Presents

Combining the power of the live event with a focus on true artist development, AEG Presents is a world leader in the music and entertainment industries. Operating across five continents, the company has an unparalleled commitment to artistry, creativity, and community. Its tentpole festivals and multi-day music events — which include the iconic Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival and the legendary New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival alongside British Summer Time at Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Hangout Festival, Electric Forest, Rock En Seine, and All Points East — continue to set the bar for the live music experience. AEG Presents promotes global tours for artists such as Justin Bieber, Blackpink, Kenny Chesney, Celine Dion, Elton John, Karol G, Paul McCartney, Katy Perry, The Rolling Stones, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, and Tyler, The Creator, in addition to — through its network of clubs, theatres, arenas, stadiums and renowned partner brands such as The Bowery Presents, Concerts West, Frontier Touring, Goldenvoice, Marshall Arts, Messina Touring Group, PromoWest Productions, and Zero Mile Presents — creating and developing an unmatched infrastructure for artist development and audience reach. More information can be found at www.aegpresents.com.

About The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas

Exclusively booked and managed by AEG Presents, The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is a premier live entertainment venue featuring the most highly-regarded talents in music and comedy. Formerly The Joint, the venue has hosted some of the top names in entertainment across countless genres since its inception, including iconic acts such as Paul McCartney, Bert Kreischer, Blink-182, Drake, Guns N’ Roses, Imagine Dragons, Journey, Karol G, Kenny Chesney, The Killers, Machine Gun Kelly, Nine Inch Nails, Prince, Rex Orange County, Santana, The 1975, and countless others.

The Theater provides an immersive setting for guests to experience both legendary and groundbreaking artists on a variety of levels, from intimate performances with 1,800 guests to large-scale, full-capacity experiences with 4,600 guests. Setting the bar for the most luxurious in-venue concert experience, The Theater offers exclusive VIP offerings, including luxury private suites tended by dedicated VIP hosts, top-shelf spirits, a private expedited entry, in-venue merchandise delivery, custom swag, VIP social lounges, and more, guaranteed to give guests an unparalleled live entertainment and VIP experience at every touchpoint. To learn more about the venue’s VIP service or to book, please email [email protected]. For tickets or more information on The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, visit virginhotelslv.com/venue/the-theater.

Lamont Roach Jr. made the first defense of the WBA Junior Lightweight title with an eight-round stoppage of Feargal McCrory at The Entertainment And Sports Arena in Washington, D.C.

After rocking McCrory un each of the first two rounds with left hooks, Roach dropped McCrory with that very same punch in the third frame. In round four, Roach dropped McCrory with a hard right uppercut to the body. Literally seconds later, Roach landed a left hook to the live that put McCrory down for a third time.

In round eight, Roach continued to batter McCrory and finally dropped him for a final time and the fight was stopped at 2:51.

Roach, 130 lbs of Washington is now 25-1-1 with 10 knockouts. McCrory, 129.6 lbs of New York is 16-1.

Lester Martinez Decisions Carlos Gongora

Lester Martinez remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Carlos Gongora in a super middleweight bout.

Martinez, 167.2 lbs of Guatemala City, Guatemala won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice and is now 18-0. Gongora, 168.6 lbs of Boston is 22-3.

Tellez Giron Stops Dilmaghani After 7

Rene Tellez Giron stopped Alex Dilmaghani after round seven of their 10-round lightweight bout.

In round four, Dilmaghani began to bleed from his nose.

Giron started to beat down and continued to bloody Dilmaghani and the fight was stopped after round seven.

Tellez Giron, 136.2 lbs of Mexico is 20-3 with 13 knockouts. Dilmaghani, 132 lbs of Manchester, ENG is 20-3-1.

Rianna Rios Decisions Mary Romero

Rianna Rios remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Mary Romero in a bantamweight contest.

In round five, Romero was deducted a point for hitting on the break.

Tios, 116.6 lbs of Upper Marlboro, MD won by scores of 79-72 and 78-73 twice and is now 8-0. Romero, 117.2 lbs of Murcia, SPA is 10-6.

Ben Johnson wins Pro Debut

12-time National Amateur champion Ben Johnson stopped Michael Williams in round one of their four-round welterweight bout.

In round one, Johnson dropped Williams with a flurry on the ropes that was punctuated by a left around the ear. Seconds later, Johnson dropped Williams again with another hard left hand. When the action continued, Williams slipped down and as he got up referee Sharon Sands stopped the bout at 2:23.

Johnson, 147.4 lbs of Springdale, MD is 1-0 with one knockout. Williams, 147.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 2-3.

Jordan Roach made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Luis Hernandez in a super flyweight bout.

In round two, Roach scored a knockdown when he landed a left hook to the side of the Hernandez’ head.

In round three, Roach landed a flurry that forced the glove of Hernandez to touch the canvas for a second knockdown.

Roach, 115 lbs of Upper Marlboro, MD won by scores of 40-34 twice and 40-35 and is 1-0. Hernandez, 113 1/2 lbs of Dominican Republic is 15-14-1.

Greg Outlaw stopped Isidro Curiel in round four of a scheduled eight-round welterweight bout.

In round four, Outlaw hurt Curiel with a left hook. With Curiel backed on the ropes, Outlaw landed about 15 unanswered punches and the fight was stopped at 2:38

Outlaw, 144 lbs of Bowie, MD is 15-2 with nine knockouts. Curiel, 144.1 lbs of Tamlipas, MEX is 11-4-1.

Deric Davis remained undefeated with a second round stopped Matias Agustin Arriagada in a four-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Davis dropped Arriagada with a left hook to the body. In round two, Davis landed a flurry of punches that put Arriagada down to the canvas. With Arriagada hurt, Davis landed a leftt hand to the chin that forced another knockdown and the fight was over at 1:15.

Davis, 135.4 lbs of Fort Washington, MD is now 4-0 with four knockouts. Arriagada, 132 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 6-12.

Travon Marshall won a six-round unanimous decision over Midyael Sanchez in a junior middleweight fight.

Marshall, 151.0 lbs of Capitol Heights, MD won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55 and is now 10-1. Sanchez, 156 lbs of San Juan, PR is 9-6.

Eric Hernandez won a four-round unanimous decision over Jonatan Godoy in a junior welterweight bout.

Hernandez, 140.6 lbs of Ashburn, VA won by scores of 40-36 and is now 11-1. Godoy, 142 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 7-19-1.

It wasn’t pretty, but Teofimo Lopez won a 12-round unanimous decision over Jamaine Ortiz to retain his WBO Junior Welterweight title at the Michelob Ultra Arena inside Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

The fight took it’s shape early as Ortiz wanted to circle the ring and not do much on offense. Lopez was following Ortiz around, but he was at least trying to make the fight. The fight was a frustrating watch, as the movement of Ortiz did not give Lopez any opportunities for sustained offense.

In round seven, Ortiz was cut above the left eye from an accidental headbutt In the same round, Lopez began to bleed from his mouth. The fight continued it’s defensive struggle theme as Lopez would land glancing blows, but it was more then what Ortiz was able amount.

Lopez landed 78 of 364 punches. Ortiz was 80 of 409.

Lopez, 139.6 lbs of Brooklyn won by scores of 117-111 and 115-113 twice to raise his record to 20-1. Ortiz, 139.6 lbs of Worcester, MA is 17-2-1.

Keyshawn Davis Stops Jose Pedraza in 6

Jose Pedraza remained undefeated bt stopping former two-division world champion Jose Pedraza in round six of their 10-round lightweight bout.

Davis was dominant from the second round on as he worked the body and that slowed the veteran Pedraza who was fighting at lightweight for the first time in four years.

In round six, Davis landed a body shot that set up a big right over the top that hurt Pedraza. Davis jumped on his prey and unloaded with some hard shots that forced Pedraza back on the ropes and the ref saved a bloody Pedraza as it was stopped at

Davis, 134.7 lbs of Norfolk, CA is 10-0 with seven knockouts. Pedraza, 134.5 lbs of Cidra, PR is 29-6-1.

Rene Tellez Giron won a eight-round unanimous decision over George Acosta in a lightweight bout.

In round five, Giron dropped Acosta with an overhand right. Giron was cut in the back of his head from a headbutt.

Giron landed 146 of 486 punches. Acosta was 125 of 422.

Giron, 132 lbs of Quertarro, MEX won by scores of 79-72, 78-73 and 76-75 and is now 19-3. Acosta, 131.3 lbs of Whittier, CA is 17-2.

Javier Martinez remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Raul Salomon in a middleweight bout.

Martinez, 161.6 lbs of Milwaukee, WI won by scores of 79-73 and 78-74 and is now 10-0-1. Salomon, 164.4 lbs of Long Beach, CA

Hot-Shot prospect Abdullah Mason scored a spectacular second round stoppage over Benjamin Gurment in round two of an eight round lightweight bout.

In round two, Mason landed three booming lefts that drove Gurment into the corner that was ruled a knockdown. The fighters met in the center in the ring and Mason landed a devastating left that put Gurment down on his back and the fight was stopped at 1:29.

Mason, 135.3 lbs is 12-0 with 10 knockouts. Gurment, 136.8 lbs of Fort Worth, TX is 8-1-3.

Charlie Sheehy remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Abdel Sauceda in lightweight bout.

Sheehy, 135.7 lbs of Brisbane, CA won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 9-0. Sauceda, 135.4 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 12-4.

Alan Garcia made short work of Tomas Ornelas by registering a 51 second knockout in a six-round lightweight bout.

Garcia dropped Ornelas in the opening seconds with a left hook. Garcia ended things with three punch combo that finished off by a left to the body and the fight was stopped at

Garcia, 136.6 lbs of Ulysses, KS is now 11-0 with nine knockouts. Ornelas, 134.6 lbs of Denver is now 7-4.

Lemir Isom-Riley stopped Antonio Zeoeda in round three of their six-round heavyweight bout.

In round three, Isom-Riley dropped Zepeda as Zepeda took a knee. Moments later, Isom-Riley scored a second knockdown after a flurry and the fight was stopped by the corner at 1:28.

Isom-Riley, 257 lbs of Harrisburg, PA is 4-2 with two knockdowns. Zepeda, 299.7 lbs of Las Vegas is 6-2.

Art Barrera Jr. stopped Michael Portales in the opening round of their four-round junior welterweight fight.

In round one, Barrera landed a huge left hook that put Portales on the canvas and the fight was stopped at 1:41.

Barrera, 141 lbs of Linwoood, CA is 3-0 with three knockouts. Portales, 140 lbs of San Jose, CA is 3-3-1.

Robson Conceicao won a 10-round unanimous decision in a junior lightweight bout over previously undefeated Xavier Martinez at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Conceicao landed 125 of 549 punches; Martinez was 107 of 585.

Conceicao, 129.6 lbs of Baiha, BRA won by scores of 100-90, 99-91 and 98-92 and is now 17-1. Martinez, 120.4 lbs of Sacramento, CA is also now 17-1.

“I learned a lot from that Oscar Valdez loss, and that’s why I was able to dedicate myself,” Conceição said. “I wasn’t discouraged by what happened that evening. I know who I am, and I knew if I put in the work, I could have this type of performance. But my mind is set on Valdez, and I definitely want that shot.

“To be honest, I think Xavier Martinez punches harder than Oscar Valdez. I felt his punches, but I know this is the type of fight I needed to prepare myself because I’m a world champion level fighter. And I definitely want Oscar Valdez.”

Martinez said, “I thought it was closer. I know I didn’t do enough to win. I sat back too much. I didn’t listen to the game plan fully. It is what it is. I’m not going to be a sore loser. He did his thing tonight. It wasn’t my night. I’m not done. This is just the beginning.”

Cabrera Decisions Giron

Giovanni Cabrera won an eight-round unanimous decision over Rene Tellez Giron in a junior welterweight bout.

Cabrera landed 145 of 595 punches; Giron was 122 of 324.

Cabrera, 138.6 lbs of Chicago, IL won by scores of 78-74 twice and 77-75 and is now 19-0. Giron, 137 lbs of Mexico is 16-2.

Johnson Decisions Madrid

2021 U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson won a four-round unanimous decision over Xavier Madrid in a battle of undefeated welterweights.

Johnson landed 83 of 263 punches; Madrid was 45 of 235.

Johnson, 145 lbs of Cleveland, OH won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is 2-0. Madrid, 145.6 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is 3-1.

Stephan Shaw stopped Joey Dawejko in the 8th and final round of their heavyweight bout.

Shaw dominated the action and landed hard shots throughout on the durable Dawejko. Finally in round 10, Shaw landed a big flurry and the corner of Dawejko stopped the fight at 1:04

Shaw, 234.8 lbs of Saint Louis, MO is 16-0 with 12 knockouts. Dawejko, 258.6 lbs of Philadelphia is 21-10-4.

Carla Torres won a eight-round majority decision over Pink Tyson in a junior lightweight bout.

Torres, 129.6 lbs of Cleveland, OH won by scores of 80-72, 77-5 and 76-76 and now is 7-6. Tyson, 130 lbs of Brighton, ENG is 11-3.

Bruce Carrington scored a 2nd round stoppage over Steven Brown in round two of their four-round featherweight fight.

In round two, Carrington hurt Brown with a right hand. Carrington followed up with three vicious left hands that sent Brown to the canvas, and the fight was stopped at 43 seconds.

Carrington, 125.8 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 2-0 with two knockouts. Brown, 125.6 lbs of Leon, MX is 1-1.

Jeremiah Milton remained undefeated with a 1st round annihilation of Dell Long in a four-round heavyweight bout.

Milton dropped Long in the opening seconds with a left hook to the head. Moments later, a left-right dropped Long and the fight was stopped at 1:37.

Milton, 237 lbs of Tulsa, OK is 4-0 with four knockouts. Long, 287.8 lbs of Virginia is 7-10-2.

Nico Ali Walsh stopped Jeremiah Yeager in round two of their scheduled four round middleweight bout.

Ali Walsh dropped Yeager with a right hand that was followed by a perfect left hook. Yeager was hurt badly and after Walsh did “The Ali Shuffle”, he landed another hard left that rocked Yeager and the fight was stopped at 2:39. Yeager, 159 lbs of Erie, PA is 1-2-1.

Ali Walsh, 162.4 lbs of Las Vegas is 4-0 with three knockouts.

Ali Walsh said, “I think the main thing was staying calm, which I did. Another thing was head movement and defense, which I felt like I did improve on. I fought last month, so if I can make those small improvements in this such a short amount of time, who’s telling what I can do in my next fight?

“I didn’t plan {the Ali Shuffle}. It was emotional, of course. So much has been going on, but yeah, I didn’t plan on doing that. It’s just something that happened.”

Haven Brady Jr. was impressive in shutting out Diuhl Olguin over six-rounds in their featherweight bout.

Brady, 127.8 lbs of Albany, GA won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 5-0. Olguin, 127.4 lbs of Guadalajara, MX is 15-21-5.

Dante Benjamin Jr. made a successful pro debut with a 1st round stoppage over Emmy Rendon in a light heavyweight bout

In round one, Bemjamin dropped Rendon with a left to the soler plexus. Moments later, it was a left hook from Benjamin that sent Rendon down again and the fight was stopped at 2:05.

Benjamin, 172.6 lbs of Cleveland, OH is 1-0 with one knockout. Rendon, 175,8 lbs of Odessa, TX is 2-1.

TULSA, OK (Jan. 21, 2022) — U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson, Brooklyn-born phenom Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington and Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of “The Greatest,” are among the rising stars who will fight Saturday, Jan. 29 atHard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa.The bill is topped by the 10-round WBC 130-pound title eliminator between Robson Conceição and Xavier Martinez, and a 10-round junior lightweight co-feature featuring Mexican grinder Rene Tellez Giron and Puerto Rican contender Luis Melendez.

Conceição-Martinez and Giron-Melendez will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The following undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT:

• Johnson (1-0, 1 KO), a 23-year-old from Cleveland, Ohio, will take on fellow unbeaten Xavier Madrid (3-0, 1 KO) in a four-round welterweight tilt. Johnson advanced to the quarterfinals at the Tokyo Olympics and turned pro last November with a fourth-round stoppage over Antonius Grable.
   
• Middleweight Ali Walsh (3-0, 2 KOs), who grabbed international headlines last year, looks to continue his unbeaten run in a four-rounder against Jeremiah Yeager (1-1-1, 1 KO).
   
• Carrington (1-0), the latest young talent from the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, makes his Top Rank debut against fellow unbeaten Steven Brown (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round featherweight bout.
   
• Light heavyweight prospect Dante “Free Smoke” Benjamin Jr., a one-time U.S. amateur standout from Cleveland, Ohio, makes his professional debut in a four-rounder against Herman Rendon (2-0). Benjamin signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank last year.
   
• Featherweight prospect Haven Brady Jr. (4-0, 3 KOs) will see action in a six-rounder against an opponent to be named.
   
• Tulsa-born heavyweight Jeremiah Milton (3-0, 3 KOs) hopes to thrill the hometown fans when he takes on the well-traveled Jason Bergman (27-20-2, 18 KOs) in a six-rounder. Milton and Bergman fought on the same Top Rank-promoted card in Tulsa last April, with Milton notching a first-round knockout and Bergman losing an eventful three-round shootout against Trey Lippe Morrison.
   
• Junior lightweight Pink Tyson (11-2, 2 KOs) looks to make it three consecutive wins when she fights the durable Carla Torres (6-6) in an eight-rounder. 
   

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Tony Holden Productions, tickets starting at $49.50 are on sale now and can be purchased at tickets.hardrockcasinotulsa.com and at the Box Office at 918-384-ROCK (7625).

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

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

TULSA, OK (Jan. 5, 2022) — Mexican action star Rene “El Bravo” Tellez Giron will meet Puerto Rican upstart Luis Melendez in a 10-round junior lightweight showdown Saturday, Jan. 29 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. 
 
Giron-Melendez will serve as the co-feature to the 10-round WBC junior lightweight title eliminator between former title challenger Robson Conceição and undefeated contender Xavier Martinez. Both bouts will air live on ESPN & ESPN Deportes (simulcast on ESPN+) at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. 
 
The ESPN+-streamed undercard will include the return of undefeated middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh (3-0, 2 KOs), grandson of Muhammad Ali, in a four-round bout. Ali Walsh made his professional debut last August with a first-round stoppage at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. Tulsa-born heavyweight prospect Jeremiah Milton (3-0, 3 KOs) will see action on the undercard in a six-rounder. 
 
Giron (16-1, 10 KOs), a 22-year-old rising star from Queretaro, Mexico, emerged from relative obscurity with his December 2019 knockout victory over then-unbeaten 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas. He has won two fights since the Balderas triumph, including a seventh-round knockout over Eduardo Garza last September on the Oscar Valdez-Conceição undercard in Tucson, Arizona. Melendez (17-1, 13 KOs), winner of 15 straight fights since a controversial split decision loss, had a busy 2021. He picked up seven victories in three months in Colombia, then returned to the States with a flourish. Melendez won an eight-round decision over Thomas Mattice at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas last November, a career-best victory that earned him the co-feature slot against Giron.
 
“I told my manager, Frank Espinoza, that I am ready to fight any junior lightweight out there,” Giron said. “Melendez answered the call, and we’re going to give the Tulsa fans a great fight. Whenever you have a Mexican versus a Puerto Rican, it can’t help but be toe-to-toe.”
 
Melendez said, “I jumped at this opportunity without hesitation. I’m thankful for this platform, and I will put the 130-pound division on notice. Giron is the man in my way. I am the next Puerto Rican star, and I will prove it in Tulsa.”
 
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Tony Holden Productions, tickets starting at $49.50 are on sale now and can be purchased at tickets.hardrockcasinotulsa.com and at the Box Office at 918-384-ROCK (7625).

TUCSON —He stepped into the ring with lots to prove. He stepped out of it with lots to prove.

But Oscar Valdez Jr.’s burden must have felt a lot lighter late Friday, buoyed by a gritty victory over Robson Canceicao at Casino del Sol’s AVA Amphitheatre, an outdoor arena on the road between his first and second homes, Nogales to the south and downtown Tucson to the north.

Valdez scored a unanimous decision, a bittersweet end to a long stretch of controversy, criticism and outrage over news of a positive test for a banned stimulant nearly two weeks ago. The controversy, the burden, is still with Valdez. It’s up to him to provide the proof that the traces of Phentermine in the positive were not intentional.

“I’ve been through a hard week,’’ he said. “I’m sorry for all this ruckus. I’m not a disrespectful man. I’ve been through enough. We won the fight. We did what we had to do and it’s on to the next chapter.”

Valdez continues to call himself a clean fighter.

That remains unproven. Perhaps the proof will come in that next chapter. We’ll see.

For 12 rounds at the end of a hot summer day in the Arizona desert, however, there was plenty of proof that Valdez (30-0, 23 KOs) is courageous fighter.

From round-to-round, he reaffirmed his stubborn, no-quit nature in a relentless attack against a Brazilian challenger who beat him as an amateur at the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara.

In the early moments, it looked as if Conceicao (16-1, 8 KOs) would do what the World Boxing Council (WBC) would not. It looked as if the Brazilian would take the acronym’s junior-lightweight title from him.

After Conceicao stepped through the ropes and took off his robe, Valdez must have felt like David looking at Goliath. He was taller. His shoulders were big enough to cast a shadow. He feet moved with a mix of agility and speed. Valdez appeared to be in trouble.

But Valdez endured the first two-to-three rounds. That’s when it looked as if Conceicao’s long jab would dictate the bout. But Valdez adjusted. Then, attacked. There’s more to winning a fight than a powerful jab, he said.

Suddenly in the sixth, Valdez came back with an edge. In the ring at least, his punches pack some proof. At the end of the sixth, Valdez landed a head-rocking right. The punch looked like it had been by a delivered by a trigger. An angry one. 

For the next six rounds, anger was a motivation. Valdez would not back down from a bigger man who began to mock him in the fourth and fifth rounds. Conceicao dropped his hands and danced around Valdez.

“He’s over here yelling in my face,’’ Valdez said. “We’re grown men. Don’t be yelling in my face. He might be upset. Of course, you want to be a world champion, but don’t point at me, don’t be yelling in my face. I’ve been through enough this week, man.”

Conceicao complained often and loudly about the scorecards – 115-112, 117-110 and 115-112, all for Valdez. He and his corner said they had been robbed. But Valdez’ aggression and short punches were scoring, especially from the eighth through the 12^th. 

Conceicao also appeared to tire in the later rounds of a night when the temperatures were still in the low 90s. His feet stopped moving and his hands dropped, Roy Jones-style. He was still big. But he had become a big target for Valdez, the incoming missile.

After the final bell, Conceicao waved one gloved hand above his hand as if he had won. But the capacity crowd, a sellout, booed.

The crowd knew different. It had seen the proof from from on of their own, a son of Sonora.

Lopez upsets Gabriel Flores in beat-down

It was an upset. And more.

Mexican junior-lightweight Luis Alberto Lopez (23-2, 13 KOs), a massive underdog, delivered a massive beating, pouring it on throughout ten rounds for a decision over Gabriel Flores Jr. in the final fight before the ESPN+ telecast of Oscar Valdez-Robson Conceicao.

On the scorecards, it was unanimous, 98-90 on two and a 100-90 shutout on the third. Flores (20-1, 7 KOS, of Stockton, Calif., was never in it. In the late rounds, he looked out of it, especially after taking a succession of head-rocking punches in the night round. But his father and trainer, Gabriel Flores Sr., would not end it.

“I didn’t think he was really hurt,” he said during a post-fight interview in the middle of the ring.

Really, the crowd seemed to say in a deafening chorus of boos.

Moments later, Flores Sr. said he thought his son was exhausted. He was that, too. He barely made it to his stool on shaky legs after the ninth. In the 10th and final round, a Flores cornerman climbed up onto the ring apron as if he wanted to end it. But the referee never saw his futile gesture in what was a futile fight for Flores..  

Nakatani Stops Acosta to retain Flyweight Title

It was an introduction to the United States. Turns out, it was a good one. Maybe even memorable. For sure, it was powerful.

Japanese flyweight Junto Nakatani employed his great reach and sweeping left hand, retaining his World Boxing Organization title with a stoppage of tough Puerto Rican Angel Acosta on the Oscar Valdez-Robson Conceicao undercard.

Nakatani (22-0, 17 KOs) , declared the victor just as a hot Arizona sun was setting beneath the horizon, broke Acota’s nose in the first. He targeted the injury throughout the second. The ringside physician called timeout in the second to evaluate the injury. Acosta (22-3, 21 KOs) rebounded, rocking Nakatani with a straight right counter. But blood kept pouring from the busted nose. The ringside physician took another look at Acosta in the third.

MIdway through the fourth, it was over, a TKO. declared by the referee on advice from the physician.

“I hope everybody liked it,” Nakatani said through an interpreter.

Everybody did.

Xander Zayas wins unanimous decision

It was a tough way to celebrate a birthday. But.leading middleweight prospect Xander Zayas (10-0, 7 KOs) did, absorbing some heavy right hand from Jose Luis Sanchez before winning a solid (60-53, 60-54, 60-53) decision on the Oscar Valdez-Robson Conceicao undercard.

Sanchez (11-2-1, 4 KOs), of Albuquerque, tested Zayas’ with his power, once in the third round and again in the fourth. But the Puerto Rican, now 19, battled back each time, returning fire with beautifully-placed uppercuts

Junior welterweight prospect scores second-round TKO

Lindolfo Delagado (13-0, 12 KOs), a Mexican junior-welterweight trained by  Robert Garcia,  continued to pour on the heat, overwhelming an overmatched Miguel Zamudio (45-17-1, 28 KOs), also of Mexico. Delgado rocked Zamudio early in the second, then left him defenseless and beaten moments later for a TKO at 50 seconds of the round. 

KO body punch punctuates second bout on Valdez-Conceicao card

Mexican junior-lightweight Rene Tellez Giron (16-1, 10 KOs) got a stoppage string rolling, throwing a body punch in the seventh round that could be heard on the other side of the border with Mexico in the second bout on the Va;dez-Conceicao card. Eduardo Garza (15-5-1, 8 K)s), of Mission, Texas, collapsed, finished at 44 seconds of the round.

First Bell: Valdez-Conceicao card begins with hot KO

It was 102 degrees at first bell. It was hot enough to stay inside. Maybe that’s why Mexican junior-welterweight Omar Aquilar didn’t waste much time.

Aquilar (22-0, 21 KOs),  a Mexican fighting as if he planned to get back into air-conditioning as fast as possible, knocked down Carlos Manuel Portillo late in the first round and then twice during the first minute of the second in the first bout an an ESPN+ card featuring Oscar Valdez-Robson Conceicao Friday at an outdoor amphitheater next to Casino del Sol.

Portillo (22-4, 17 KOS), of Paraquay, couldn’t take the heat — from either Aguliar or from the mid-afternoon sun in the Arizona  desert. He was finished, knocked out at 55 seconds of the second. 

ONTARIO, Calif. (December 17, 2019) – Sensational 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas takes on Mexico’s Rene Tellez Giron in an eight-round lightweight match as the opener of FOX PBC Fight Night live in primetime and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, December 21 at Toyota Arena in Ontario, California at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. ET.

Former champion Guillermo Rigondeaux was scheduled to take on Liborio Solis in the co-feature of the FOX PBC Fight Night card, but that match has been postponed until a later date.

Balderas vs. Giron will serve as the opening attraction to the show that is headlined by the highly anticipated rematch between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony Harrison and former champion Jermell Charlo that also features Efe Ajagba taking on Iago Kiladze in a 10-round heavyweight showdown in the co-feature.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Toyota Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

One of the most highly regarded prospects from the 2016 U.S. Olympic team, Balderas (9-0, 8 KOs) returns for an eight-round lightweight affair to close out 2019. The 23-year-old from Santa Maria, California has won his last five fights by stoppage, including three already in 2019. His most recent outing saw him stop Robert Frankel in July. He will be opposed by the 20-year-old Giron (13-1, 7 KOs), who fights out of Queretaro, Mexico and is looking to rebound from a decision loss to unbeaten Michel Rivera in June.

Preceding FOX PBC Fight Night, undefeated Filipino featherweight contender Jhack Tepora will battle rugged former title challenger Oscar Escandon in a 10-round bout in the co-feature of FS1 PBC Fight Night at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. ET. Hugo Centeno, Jr. will take on Juan Macias Montiel in a 10-round middleweight main event of the telecast that also features super welterweight prospect Raymond Guajardo facing Donnis Reed in a four-rounder in the televised opener.

Fighting out of Cebu City, Philippines, Tepora (23-0, 17 KOs) will enter the ring for the second time in the U.S. on December 21, after making a successful U.S. debut against Jose Luis Gallegos in June. The 24-year-old will take on Colombia’s Escandon (25-5, 17 KOs), who fights for the first time since a loss to Brandon Figueroa last year at the same arena in Ontario. Escandon is a former interim titlist at featherweight and challenged Gary Russell Jr. for the featherweight championship in 2017.

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, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

SLOAN, Iowa – June 20, 2019 – Undefeated super welterweights Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and Manuel “Baby” Zepeda both made weight a day before their ShoBox: The New Generation debuts Friday night live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa.

The 21-year-old Fundora (12-0, 8 KOs), who was officially measured today at six-foot-five-and-a-half inches, has knocked out his last four opponents and started 2019 in electrifying fashion with a third-round knockout of then 10-0 Donnie Marshall. Said to be the tallest 154-pound boxer in the division’s history, Fundora faces Mexico’s Zepeda (17-0, 4 KOs), a busy, five-year veteran who will celebrate his 22^nd birthday on fight night.

In the co-feature, Michel Rivera (15-0, 10 KOs) from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic takes on Mexico’s Rene Tellez Giron (13-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout. In the opening bout of the tripleheader which boasts six fighters with a combined record of 90-1, undefeated prospect Yeis Solano (14-0, 10 KOs) will face former Argentine Lightweight Champion Elias Damian Araujo (19-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout.

Here is what the fighters had to say on Thursday from WinnaVegas Casino.

FINAL WEIGHTS, REFEREES AND JUDGES

Super Welterweight 10-Round Bout 

Sebastian Fundora – 152 ¾ lbs. 

Manuel Zepeda – 152 ¼ lbs.

Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: Robert Hoyle (Las Vegas), Bob LaFratte (Iowa), Russell Mora (Las Vegas)

Lightweight 8-Round Bout 

Michel Rivera – 134 ½ lbs.

Rene Giron – 135 lbs.

Referee: Adam Pollack; Judges: Robert Hoyle (Las Vegas), Bob LaFratte (Iowa), Russell Mora (Las Vegas)

Lightweight 8-Round Bout 

Yeis Solano – 134 ½ lbs.

Elias Araujo – 133 ¾ lbs.

Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: Robert Hoyle (Las Vegas), Bob LaFratte (Iowa), Russell Mora (Las Vegas)

FINAL QUOTES:

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA:

“I’m used to people focusing on my height. I’ve always been the tallest fighter in my division and in my age bracket. It’s not going to go away and I understand why people talk about it. If anything, it helps me get more publicity so it’s a good thing.

“I usually bring the fight to my opponents. I think the best defense is a good offense. It’s natural for me to fight on the inside because that’s what my father taught me when I was younger.

“This fight is just another stepping stone for me. It’s just another step to get higher in the rankings and get closer to a title shot.

“My opponent is taller than most fighters I’ve faced. I don’t know much about Zepeda but I know he comes from a boxing family and that usually makes for good fights. I’m expecting fireworks. We’ll take it round by round but I know what the fans like, and that’s knockouts.”

MANUEL ZEPEDA:

“Everybody is talking about Fundora’s height but it’s not that important to me. They are putting so much attention on it but this is a 50-50 fight. I think that I can win and I just hope that at the end of the fight we will go home to our families healthy.

“This will be my first time fighting somebody taller than me but I don’t feel at a disadvantage. I am very well prepared. This is a great opportunity for me. It’s a dream for me to be fighting here in the U.S. on television.

“Fundora has a Mexican style of fighting. He likes to come forward so I think the fans will be in for a great fight. This will be exciting and all-action.  I’m prepared for 10 rounds but that’s not what I’m planning for.

“I’m going to use my intelligence and my ability to box. Fundora has never fought somebody with the skills that I have. I will read him and adjust my gameplan. I’ll capitalize on his mistakes.”

MICHEL RIVERA:

“I’m happy to be making my U.S. debut. I love the Dominican Republic but the opportunities are not the same over there. That’s why I’m slowly moving my training camp to Miami. For the last couple of weeks, I’ve been training with Luis Ortiz’s trainer, German Caicedo. I can already feel the difference.

“Giron is a strong boxer but nothing that I haven’t seen before. He is a Mexican and he is always looking to fight. He’s small but he’s a warrior. I am prepared for every scenario. I don’t think he has enough skills to counter me. I believe I’m the better fighter and that I can win this fight.”

RENE TELLEZ GIRON:

“I’m usually the smaller fighter, so this is nothing different for me.

“This is my first time ever in the U.S. but I’m not worried about that. I’ve traveled to different places and challenged champions. I went to Ukraine and beat an undefeated fighter, so I am looking forward to a great fight.

“Rivera is a great fighter. To be undefeated is no easy feat, so of course he should be respected. But to me, this is just another fight and that’s how I will treat it. I came here to get the win.”

YEIS SOLANO:

“I’m so happy I finally get to fight on television in the United States. I’ve been here for 11 months, training very hard. I know a lot of fighters come to this country looking for their dreams to come true, trying to succeed, but not everybody makes it. I’m determined to make it and I will.

“Things are very different in Colombia. The level of sparring you can get there is not as good as the sparring partners I can get here. Training camps are different. You work harder here.

“I’m actually happy I’m fighting Elias Araujo instead of my previous opponent. Romero was a runner, he moved around a lot and that made him hard to pin down. Araujo, on the other hand, stands in front of you and comes forward. I like that. He’s a good match for my style.

“I can pack a punch. I have power and a mean left. I’m not concerned about Araujo. I’m winning on Friday night.”

ELIAS ARAUJO:

“Soccer was my passion for most of my life; I wanted to be like Lionel Messi. But that changed the very first time I went to a boxing match.  A friend of mine invited me to his amateur fight in Rufino, Santa Fe and that was it.  I fell in love with boxing.

“I started boxing at 25, that’s late for a boxer but I have been an athlete my entire life. I don’t feel I’m at a disadvantage. I was offered this fight a few weeks ago, and I took it, of course. I’ve been in training camp with Sebastian Fundora, the main event of this card. This is my time to shine.

“Argentina is a good place to start your boxing career but it has its limitations. Coming to the United States was the next step for me. There are more resources here: better sparring partners, more money and more opportunities.

“There are a lot of champions from my home state [Santa Fe]: Carlos Monzon, Marcos Maidana, Carlos Baldomir, even Lucas Matthysse can be considered from Santa Fe since he kind of grew up there. I want my name to be added to that list one day. I want to be the next boxing powerhouse that comes from Santa Fe, Argentina.”

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at Facebook.com/Shosports

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 80 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more

NEW YORK – May 24, 2019 – Six talented prospects will each put their undefeated records on the line in the next edition of ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, June 21 live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/PT from WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa.

Billed as “Someone’s O Must Go,” the exciting night of fights will feature six boxers with a combined record of 91 wins and no defeats. Since the developmental prospect series debuted in 2001, a total of 186 boxers have lost their undefeated record on ShoBox.

In the main event, southpaw Sebastian Fundora (12-0, 8 KOs) of Coachella, Calif., faces Hector Zepeda (17-0, 4 KOs) from Tijuana, Mexico, in a 10-round super welterweight bout. In the co-feature, Michel Rivera (15-0, 10 KOs) from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic takes on Mexico’s Rene Tellez Giron (13-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout. In the telecast opener, Argentina’s Jose Romero (21-0, 7 KOs) battles Yeis Solano (14-0, 10 KOs) of Colombia, also in an eight-round lightweight fight.

“In the 18-year history of ShoBox: The New Generation, we have yet to feature a tripleheader with all young, undefeated prospects who are also making their ShoBox debuts,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of the series since its inception in 2001. “These promising prospects have a combined record of 91-0 and hope to join the current list of 80 fighters who fought on the series and went on to become world champions. This is a show not to be missed.”

The event is promoted by Sampson Boxing in association with Paco Presents. Tickets, starting at $10, are on sale now and available at www.WinnaVegas.com.

“I’m very proud to present these future champions on ShoBox: The New Generation, a show that has built so many careers and champions,” said promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “It’s very exciting to present so many undefeated fighters against each other in one event. Every one of these fighters are putting their young careers on the line and three of them will move forward and three will step back that night.”

Nicknamed “The Towering Inferno” and trained by his father, the 21-year-old Fundora fought three times in 2018 and has been called the tallest 154-pound boxer in the division’s history. Often holding a five- to eight-inch height advantage over his opponents, Fundora has knocked out his last four opponents and started 2019 in electrifying fashion with a third-round knockout of then 10-0 Donnie Marshall. Nine of his 12 wins have come against opponents with winning records.

“It’s an honor to be the headliner on a ShoBox event,” said Fundora, originally from West Palm Beach, Fla., whose all-action style has been compared to former world champion Antonio Margarito. “My opponent, Hector Zepeda, is from a respected Tijuana boxing family and he will be very tough. A victory over an undefeated fighter like Zepeda will be a big step forward for me. Training is going well, and I’ll be more than ready to give the fans another exciting performance on June 21.”

Also 21-years-old, Zepeda is a busy, five-year veteran who goes by the nickname “Baby” and who fought five times in 2018. His father Ernesto Zepeda is a former professional boxer and he’s trained by noted Mexican trainer Romulo Quirarte. During his career, Ernesto sparred all-time great Julio Cesar Chavez, Sr. and Hector is a currently sparring with Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. Zepeda is coming off a unanimous decision win over Giovanny Gonzalez on May 18 in Tijuana. In February, Zepeda scored an eight-round unanimous decision over Jesus Javier Gutierrez Montenegro.

“This is the first opportunity that has been presented to me at this caliber,” Zepeda said. “Fundora is a strong fighter, much taller than most. He loves to exchange blows and I am sure this is going to be a great fight. Training is going great. I am working very hard physically and mentally to leave everything inside the ring June 21. A victory over Fundora on SHOWTIME will open doors, so that a lot of people will know who I am and open the way for better things in my career.”

The 21-year-old Rivera from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, is a hard-hitting three-year professional fighting for the first time in the United States. Rivera has stopped five of his last six opponents and was last seen scoring a two-round stoppage over Argentina’s Carlos Daniel Cordoba in January. He has faced eight fighters with winning records, including two who were previously undefeated.

“I am super excited to have this opportunity to fight on ShoBox,” Rivera said. “That is where all boxers dream to fight on, especially those with less opportunities like me. My opponent is shorter than me and fights at half-distance and likes to counterattack. He uses his jab a lot and is used to fighting bigger rivals. He’s also more active the first three rounds, then starts to lower the intensity. I need to be aware of his overhand right.”

The 20-year-old Tellez Giron is a native of Queretaro, Mexico. The undefeated slugger known as “El Bravo” is an almost four-year professional with a reputation for fighting in his opponents’ backyard and still coming away victorious. An accomplished amateur, Tellez Giron had 180 amateur fights starting at the age of 12 and was a state, regional and national champion, as well as Golden Gloves champ. He turned pro at the age of 15 and in 2018 traveled to Ukraine where he captured the vacant WBC Youth Silver title. In his last fight, he stopped fellow Mexican Mario Enrique Martinez in two rounds in December of last year. He has faced nine fighters with winning records, including five who were undefeated.

“In reality, to me, this is just another fight,” Tellez Giron said. “I have been in tough fights before and this is nothing new for me. I am aiming for bigger and better things, so I feel very motivated because this is the time to demonstrate what I have and to show everyone what I am made of. Rivera is a strong fighter, who likes to use distance. I also know that he is very disciplined.”

The 23-year-old Romero is a native of Cordoba, Argentina. He won the World Boxing Council Latino Super Featherweight Title in November 2017 and defended it twice. He is also the current Argentina (FAB) Super Featherweight Title and International Boxing Federation Latino Super Featherweight Champion.

“I am a proud champion of Argentina, but now I’m ready to do what so many of my great countrymen have done and bring my skills to the world,” said Romero, fighting for the first time in the U.S. “It is a great honor to fight on SHOWTIME, where so many champions have fought before me. From my pro debut, my promoter Sampson Lewkowicz has promised me this chance and now it’s here. I will not blow it. I am training like all my dreams depend on winning. They do.”

Solano is a 26-year-old native of Monteria, Colombia. The hard-punching Solano is a former World Boxing Association Fedebol Lightweight Champion and in 2012 placed third in the Colombia National Games. In his last fight, he scored a five-round stoppage over Jesus Manuel Sandoval in October 2018. He is currently training at Compton Boxing Gym in Compton, Calif., and is trained by Jose Ponce, Sr. and his son Jose Ponce, Jr.

“I feel very fortunate to have this platform to showcase my talent,” Solano said. “My opponent has an extensive record and I know he’s a good fighter and, like me, I know that he is probably preparing for a war. I look forward to demonstrating all the hard work I am putting in for this fight and at the end of the fight, I will continue to be undefeated.”

Barry Tompkins will call the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 80 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.