LOS ANGELES (June 9, 2026) – Lamont “The Reaper” Roach Jr. (25-1-3, 10 KOs) of Washington D.C. and Mexican sensation William “El Camarón” Zepeda (33-1, 27 KOs) hosted a press conference today at Golden Boy Headquarters in Los Angeles ahead of their battle for the vacant WBC Lightweight World Championship on Saturday, Aug. 1 at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. The 12-round championship showdown will be broadcast co-exclusively in the United States on TNT and truTV and worldwide on DAZN and presented by Golden Boy Promotions in co-promotion with TGB Promotions and ProBox Promotions. Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (24-0, 17 KOs), who will defend his IBF Lightweight World Championship for the second time against Brazilian former world champion Robson “O Brabo” Conceição (21-3-1, 10 KOs) also participated in the press conference. Muratalla vs. Conceição is presented by Top Rank.

Tickets for Roach Jr vs. Zepeda are on sale now, and are priced at $300, $200, $150, $75, $50 and $30 plus applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or GoldenBoy.com.

This is what today’s participants had to say:

LAMONT “THE REAPER” ROACH JR., FORMER WORLD CHAMPION:

“I’m supposed to be here, and I’m fulfilling my destiny.”

“William Zepeda is a top contender, and we wouldn’t want this fight for the vacant title to be against anyone other than someone of his level.”

“I’m working my ass off in camp to do everything I can to take this belt home.”

“On August 1, I’ll claim my second world title in my second division, and the sky’s the limit.”

WILLIAM “EL CAMARÓN” ZEPEDA, FORMER INTERIM WORLD CHAMPION:

“First of all, I want to thank Oscar De La Hoya, Golden Boy Promotions and Mauricio Sulaimán for this opportunity. We have a great challenge in front of us, and we’ve been preparing for it for a long time.”

“I know Lamont is a fighter with tremendous experience who is coming to win, but we have the same mentality.”

“On August 1, we plan on taking that belt home.”

“We know Roach has proven his quality at the highest level, but we have also gained valuable experience in major fights. We have worked hard for this opportunity, and we are ready to give the fans a great fight.”

RAYMOND “DANGER” MURATALLA, IBF LIGHTWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:

“I’m super thankful that this fight is happening. I’m super thankful that these networks and promotions are able to work together. I’m excited for August 1 and ready to put on a show. I think the fans are going to love it.”

“I’m not afraid of whoever they put in front of me. I’m there to do one thing, and that’s to win.”

“He was the only one that said yes. Simple as that.”

This is by far the best quote from Muratalla and will get picked up by boxing media.

“I want to be active. I want to keep fighting. Whoever says yes is what I’m taking.”

“I’m definitely looking forward to taking over. It’s looking great for me. I’m feeling great, and hopefully the big fights are next.”

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

“What really excites me about this fight, taking off my promoter hat and putting on my fighter hat, is the styles, the hunger and the discipline that both fighters have.”

“You have two guys that are so motivated to get back into that winner’s circle.”

“It’s not going to be easy whatsoever for either guy. It’s going to be a great fight. It’s going to be a very entertaining fight, and I’m going to call it right now — Fight of the Year.”

“Working with PBC, Tom Brown and any promoter out there to make the best fights happen is what the sport needs, and that’s what we do here at Golden Boy.”

“The fact that boxing is back on linear television is only a positive for everybody. The fact that we can simultaneously air fights on DAZN and TNT is monumental.”

TOM BROWN, PRESIDENT OF TGB PROMOTIONS:

?”I believe this fight is going to be very violent.”

“Lamont Roach is battle-tested, very dangerous and very confident going into this fight.”

“The fans watching live in Las Vegas and those watching on TNT Sports and DAZN are going to be in for a very special night of boxing.”

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Roach Jr. vs. Zepeda is a 12-round lightweight fight for the WBC Lightweight World Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in co-promotion with TGB Promotions and ProBox Promotions. Muratalla vs. Conceição is a 12-round fight for the IBF Lightweight World Championship presented by Top Rank. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

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 #RoachJrZepeda

About The Fight

The Fight is a new monthly boxing series from TNT Sports and DAZN, built to deliver the sport’s biggest matchups and rising stars on a consistent national stage. Featuring top fighters from leading global promoters, each event airs live on TNT Sports and DAZN platforms in the U.S. and streams worldwide on DAZN, creating a seamless, multi-platform experience that brings fans closer to the action than ever before. Across TNT Sports’ networks and platforms, including Bleacher Report and House of Highlights, additional original programming and digital content will spotlight the personalities, storylines and stakes driving each event.

LAS VEGAS (June 8, 2026) — Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (24-0, 17 KOs) will make the second defense of his IBF Lightweight World Championship against Brazilian former world champion Robson “O Brabo” Conceição (21-3-1, 10 KOs).

Muratalla-Conceição will serve as the co-feature to the Roach Jr. vs. Zepeda card on Saturday, Aug. 1, at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. This fight is presented by Top Rank.

“After my last fight, the boxing world really got to know who I am,” said Raymond Muratalla. “People saw me as the underdog, even though I was the champion, and I showed that I can’t be underestimated. Now I’m defending my title against another Olympic gold medalist, and I plan to look even better. I’m focused, I’m ready, and I’m handling business on August 1.”

“They said it was impossible when I dreamed of winning an Olympic gold medal,” said Robson Conceição. “They said that when I pursued my first world title. I accomplished both, and it’s no different now. I have a lot of respect for Raymond Muratalla, but I’m ready for this challenge. I want to prove that determination, experience and the heart of a champion can overcome any obstacle. On August 1, I will fight for myself, for my family and for all of Brazil.”

“Raymond Muratalla has solidified himself as one of the top lightweights in the world. His recent decisive victory against Andy Cruz reinforced his elite status in boxing,” said Top Rank President, Todd duBoef. “This upcoming defense against Olympic Gold medalist and former world champion Robson Conceição will have the fans entertained from the first bell. This bout is an excellent addition to the August installment of TNT Sports and DAZN’s ‘The Fight’ series, which is delivering quality compelling matches for fight fans throughout the world.”

Headlining the TNT Sports and DAZN’s “The Fight,” a new monthly live boxing series, Lamont “The Reaper” Roach Jr. (25-1-3, 10 KOs) of Washington D.C. and Mexican sensation William “El Camarón” Zepeda (33-1, 27 KOs) will battle for the vacant WBC Lightweight World Championship. The broadcast will air co-exclusively in the United States on TNT and truTV and worldwide on DAZN and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in co-promotion with TGB Promotions and ProBox Promotions.

Roach Jr. vs. Zepeda is on sale and is priced at $300, $200, $150, $75, $50 and $30 plus applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com or GoldenBoy.com.

Additional information on the undercard and media credentials will be announced in the coming weeks.

Muratalla, from Fontana, California, debuted as a pro in 2016 and steadily rose the lightweight ranks. His standout performances include second-round stoppages of big-punching Jeremia Nakathila in May 2023 and Jesus Perez in November 2024. In May 2025, Muratalla defeated Zaur Abdullaev to become the interim IBF lightweight world champion. He was elevated to full champion the following month after Vasiliy Lomachenko announced his retirement. In February, he outpointed Olympic gold medalist Andy Cruz to retain his crown in his best performance to date.

Conceição, Brazil’s first Olympic boxing gold medalist, repeatedly challenged the sport’s elite before winning a world title on his fourth attempt. After setbacks to Oscar Valdez and Shakur Stevenson, he battled Emanuel Navarrete to a majority draw in November 2023 before edging O’Shaquie Foster to capture the WBC junior lightweight world title in July 2024. Conceição lost the belt to Foster in their rematch that November but has since scored two victories at home.

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Roach Jr. vs. Zepeda is a 12-round lightweight fight for the WBC Lightweight World Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in co-promotion with TGB Promotions and ProBox Promotions. Muratalla vs. Conceição is a 12-round fight for the IBF Lightweight World Championship presented by Top Rank. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

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 #RoachJrZepeda

About The Fight

The Fight is a new monthly boxing series from TNT Sports and DAZN, built to deliver the sport’s biggest matchups and rising stars on a consistent national stage. Featuring top fighters from leading global promoters, each event airs live on TNT Sports and DAZN platforms in the U.S. and streams worldwide on DAZN, creating a seamless, multi-platform experience that brings fans closer to the action than ever before. Across TNT Sports’ networks and platforms, including Bleacher Report and House of Highlights, additional original programming and digital content will spotlight the personalities, storylines and stakes driving each event.

O’Shaquie Foster recaptured the WBC Super Featherweight title with a 12-round split decision over Robson Conceicao at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

The fight was a rematch of a fight from July that saw Conceicao win the title from Foster in a close and may controversial decision in Newark, New Jersey.

Much like the first battle, this was a closely contested fight, but the difference was the work done by Foster down the stretch that saw him win by scores of 115-113, while Conceicao took a card 115-113.

Foster landed 172 of 534 punches. Conceicao was 153 of 565.

Foster, 129.9 lbs of Orange, TX is 23-3. Conceicao, 129.7 lbs of Brazil is 19-3-1.

Foster said, “Man, he’s a hell of a fighter. His heart is unbelievable. Shoutout to him. He’s got a big heart.”

“I told y’all I was gonna step it up and bring it to him. That was my goal. I still ain’t satisfied with my performance, but I felt like I showed a lot of people my versatility.”

“I want the winner of Emanuel Navarrete vs. Oscar Valdez.”

Conceição said, “I’m happy because I know what I did in the ring. I did a good job, so there’s no reason to be sad. I know the victory wasn’t mine tonight, but I know that I did a good job.”

“If he wants the rematch, I’ll be ready. I gave him a rematch, so I think he should show the same respect to me by giving me the third fight.

Muratalla Stops Perez in 2

Raymond Muratalla remained undefeated by stopping Jesus Perez in round two of a scheduled 10-round lightweight bout

In round two, Muratalla dropped Perez with a right hand. Seconds later, Muratalla landed a perfect right to the jaw that put Perez down again. Muratalla then landed a two more rights and the fight was stopped at 1:24.

Muratalla, 136.6 lbs of Fontana, CA is 22-0 with 17 knockouts. Perez, 136.2 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 25-6.

Muratalla said, “I’m coming for those champions. I’ve still got it. I don’t know what people are talking about. I’m here.”

“I’m asking for these title shots, and they haven’t given them to me. So, tonight I proved that I deserve it. I want any of the champions.”

“I’m ready for any of the guys with the belts. I’m just waiting for that call. You saw what I’m capable of doing. I’m waiting for that call to fight any of the champions.”

Bryce Mills stopped Mike Ohan Jr. after round five if a scheduled eight-round junior lightweight bout.

Mills beat Ohan down and the corner stopped the bout after round five.

Mills, 139 lbs of Syracuse, NY is 17-1 with five knockouts. Ohan, 140.7 lbs of Hollbrook, MA is 19-4.

Abraham Nova and Humberto Galindo battled to a 10-round split draw in a junior lightweight fight.

Scores were 97-93 for Galindo; 96-94 for Nova and 95-94.

Nova, 133.4 lbs of Albany, NY is 23-3-1. Galindo, 1313 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 14-3-3.

Jahi Tucker scored an eighth and final round stoppage of Quilisto Madera in a middleweight fight.

In round eight, Tucker was deducted for holding and hitting. Later in the round, Tucker landed a couple of hard rights that buckled Madera that forced a referee stoppage at 1:52.

Tucker, 161.8 lbs of Deer Park, NY is 13-1-1 with six knockouts. Madera, 161.3 lbs of Stockton, CA is 14-4.

Ali Feliz stopped Rashad Coulter in round two of their six-round heavyweight bout.

Feliz landed a counter right hand to the head the drove Coulter to the ropes. Feliz followed up with 10 unanswered blows and the fight was waved off at 1:34.

Feliz, 224.1 lbs of Danbury, CT is 4-0 with three knockouts. Coulter, 252.1 lbs of Dallas is 5-5.

Yan Santana remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Eduardo Baez in a 10-round featherweight bout.

In round four, Santana dropped Baez with a hard left hook. Sanatana continued to pound on a hurt Baez and the fight was stopped at 1:57.

Santana, 126.3 lbs of La Romana, DR is 13-0 with 12 knockouts. Baez, 125.7 lbs of Mexicali, MX is 23-7-2.

Damian Knyba stopped Richard Lartey in round three of a scheduled eight-round heavyweight bout.

In round three, Knyba landed a right hand that was followed by a left hook that dumped Lartey on the canvas, and the fight was stopped at 2:10.

Knyba, 259.1 lbs of Poland is 14-0 with eight knockouts. Lartey, 288 lbs of Accra, GHA is 16-7.

• Robson Conceição 129.7 lbs vs. O’Shaquie Foster 129.9 lbs
(Conceição’s WBC Junior Lightweight World Title — 12 Rounds)
Referee: Mark Nelson
Judges: Max DeLuca, Eric Marlinski and Tom Schreck
 
•  Raymond Muratalla 136.6 lbs vs. Jesus Perez 136.2 lbs
(Lightweight — 10 Rounds)
 
•  Bryce Mills 139.8 lbs vs. Mike Ohan Jr. 140.7 lbs
(Junior Welterweight — 8 Rounds)

•    Abraham Nova 131.4 lbs vs. Humberto Galindo 131.3 lbs
(Junior Lightweight — 10 Rounds)

•    Jahi Tucker 161.8 lbs vs.  Quilisto Madera 161.8 lbs
 (Middleweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Ali Feliz 224.1 lbs vs. Rashad Coulter 252.1 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

•   Yan Santana 126.8 lbs vs. Eduardo Baez 125.7 lbs
 (Featherweight — 10 Rounds)

•   Damian Knyba 259.1 lbs vs. Richard Lartey 288 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 8 Rounds)

VERONA, N.Y. (Oct. 31, 2024) — Less than four months after their first clash, Robson Conceição and O’Shaquie Foster are ready to settle unfinished business.

Conceição (19-2-1, 9 KOs) will defend his WBC junior lightweight title against Foster (22-3, 12 KOs) this Saturday, Nov. 2, at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Conceição took the crown with a split decision in July. He believes he was the rightful victor, while Foster has been fueled by a desire to become a two-time world champion.

In the 10-round co-feature, rising lightweight contender Raymond Muratalla (21-0, 16 KOs) returns against Mexican warrior Jesus Perez (25-5, 18 KOs).

Conceição-Foster II and Muratalla-Perez will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ at approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The undercard will start at 5:50 p.m. ET/2:50 p.m. PT.

Local favorite Bryce Mills (16-1, 5 KOs), from nearby Syracuse, New York, will see action in an eight-round junior welterweight tilt versus Mike Ohan Jr. (19-3, 9 KOs), while former world title challenger Abraham “El Super” Nova (23-3, 16 KOs) will take on Humberto Galindo (14-3-2, 11 KOs) in a 10-rounder at junior lightweight. 

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Box Office, charge by phone by calling 800.771.7711, or online at Ticketmaster.com.

This is what the fighters had to say at Thursday’s press conference.
 Robson Conceição

“This fight is personal for me because I feel that a champion is a fighter who goes out there and doesn’t run around, who looks for the fight, who tries to win, and doesn’t just throw one or two punches and then moves away.”

“This has happened to me before, in fact, with Oscar Valdez and Emanuel Navarrete. I didn’t have the luck those nights, but I always go in there with the desire to fight. So, he’s going to have to fight for a second time against me as a result of that.”

“I had a really good camp. For the first fight, I didn’t have a great camp because I had a lot of pain. I even had an illness in that last camp, and so even with that, I was still able to win. But this time, I had a really great camp. It was a good, clean preparation, so I’m going to win in even better fashion this time.”

O’Shaquie Foster

“I’ve been good. I’ve just been grinding. But I hope he knows the name of the game is to hit and not get hit. That’s the name of the game. I’ve been in good spirits. I’m ready.”

“I ain’t really trying to dwell on the judges {in the first fight}. I wish them the best, but this fight, I plan on coming in and dominating to the best of my ability.”

“We plan on doing stuff different, and we plan on stepping to him. I hope he knows that. He’s talking and doing all that. I hope he had the best camp because we had a great camp, too. Everybody goes into fights with injuries and sicknesses, so I don’t want to hear that excuse. Saturday, it’s going to be showtime.” 

Raymond Muratalla

“I think these fights are the types of fights I need to show my skills and to prove I deserve those title fights.”

“Every fight, I’m looking to make a statement, so I can get these title fights that I want.”

Jesus Perez

“I had a good preparation for this fight, and the fighter who will win is the one who is best prepared for this fight.”

“We’re ready. We’re made for challenges. I like challenges, and God willing, with a win and a good fight, I will show that it’s no lucky shot. I’ll show that I was ready for any fighter.” 

Bryce Mills

“The best fights are the ones that are close to home, where I can get loved ones, my family, and all my supporters out to support me. And make no mistake about it, on November 2, I’m coming to put on a show.”

“The sport of boxing is my life, so in a lot of ways, it’s difficult to view my life without boxing because this is all I know. I live, eat, and breathe this sport. And I will until the day I retire.”

Abraham Nova

“It’s a blessing to be miles away from my hometown {Albany} and have the fans come and support me.”

On coming back following two close decision defeats

“Boxing is a very subjective sport, but the fans know who the champ is and how you present yourself in the ring. The last two fights didn’t go my way, but this is called perseverance. You have to keep taking these challenges and keep showing the world who you are because those three judges don’t see you as the champion… but the fans know who you really are. I fight to win, but I also fight for the fans. So, if I give the fans a fight and they feel like I won, I’m happy with that.”

“I’m 30 years young, not 30 years old. It’s just a number. I have a great family and great genetics behind me. I’m doing this for a long time. I feel I haven’t shown any injuries, ring rust, or things like that. On Saturday night, I’m going to display my skills and my youth.”

Saturday, November 2

FIRST BELL: LIVE on ESPN+ (5:50 p.m. ET/2:50 p.m. PT)
 

Robson Conceição vs. O’Shaquie Foster, 12 Rounds, Conceição‘s WBC Junior Lightweight World Title

Damian Knyba vs. Richard Lartey, 8 Rounds, Heavyweight

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN: Conceição vs. Foster 2 will be presented live this Saturday, November 2, at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Starting at 5:50 p.m. ET/2:50 p.m. PT, the entire card will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+. The co-feature will begin at approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

In the main event, Robson Conceição will defend his WBC junior lightweight world title against O’Shaquie Foster.  Conceição dethroned Foster via split decision in a fiercely contested matchup less than four months ago.
 
Conceição (19-2-1, 9 KOs), Brazil’s first Olympic boxing gold medalist, turned pro in 2016, with his only losses coming in world title showdowns against then-unbeaten world champions Oscar Valdez (2021) and Shakur Stevenson (2022). After a no contest against Nicolas Polanco and a draw against WBO junior lightweight world champion Emanuel Navarrete in 2023, Conceição stopped Jose Guardado in April before capturing a world title in his fourth attempt.

Foster (23-3, 12 KOs) turned pro in 2012 after a decorated amateur career with more than 100 fights and a U.S. Olympic team alternate spot. Despite early setbacks, he rebounded with a 12-fight winning streak, snatching the WBC crown in 2023 by outpointing Rey Vargas. He defended his title with a thrilling 12th-round stoppage of Rocky Hernandez last October and a hard-fought decision over Abraham Nova in February.

In the 10-round co-feature, lightweight contender Raymond Muratalla returns against the upset-hungry Jesus Perez.

The 27-year-old Muratalla (21-0, 16 KOs) had a flawless 2023, going 3-0 with three knockouts. In March, he recovered from a first-round knockdown to stop Galindo in the ninth, and in May, he dismantled Jeremia Nakathila in two rounds. He closed out the year by defeating Mexican puncher Diego Torres. Muratalla has continued his momentum this year with decision victories over Xolisani Ndongeni in March and former world champion Tevin Farmer in July.

Perez (25-5, 18 KOs), from Tijuana, Mexico, started his career 21-0 with 16 knockouts before his first loss in 2018. In his latest outing, he upset former world champion Joseph Diaz Jr. by split decision.

Timothy Bradley, Jr., Mark Kriegel, and Bernardo Osuna will call the action.

New! The ESPN Original Series “The Fight Life”  premiered October 7 and chronicles a year in the world of Top Rank Boxing through the journeys of five of the sport’s elite boxers: Tyson Fury, Naoya Inoue, Seniesa Estrada, Teofimo Lopez, and Josh Taylor. 

ESPN+: On Demand Shows, Archives & Premium Articles

• Top Rank: Real Time– All-access with top fighters throughout fight week as they work their way to fight night. 
• Who Do U Fight 4?– Learn what drivesthe next generation of Top Rank stars. 
• State of Boxing– Post-show coverage of the biggest fights on ESPN and ESPN+. 
• Best of Boxing Spotlight – An archive of the all-time best Top Rank fights. 

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Conceição vs. Foster 2 (All Times ET)

About ESPN

About ESPN+

HOUSTON, Texas (Oct. 21, 2024) — Former world champion O’Shaquie Foster has unfinished business. 

The 31-year-old will face Robson Conceição for the WBC junior lightweight world title on Saturday, Nov. 2, at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Foster lost his title to Conceição via split decision in July, a controversial verdict that left him angered and motivated to become a two-time world champion.

Conceição-Foster II headlines a stacked card that will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Box Office, charge by phone by calling 800.771.7711, or online at Ticketmaster.com.

After a decorated amateur career, Foster (22-3, 12 KOs) turned pro in 2012. After early setbacks, he rebounded with a 12-fight winning streak under trainer Bobby Benton, capturing the WBC strap by outpointing Rey Vargas in February 2023. Foster defended his crown with a thrilling 12th-round stoppage of Rocky Hernandez on enemy turf before outboxing Abraham Nova to a points verdict in his second defense.

Following a recent training session in Houston, this is what Foster had to say:

“The fight was easy. I didn’t see where the judges got that decision. But the fight was easy for me. I only saw that I could have been more active and let my hands go in certain situations more.”

“There are a lot of things I can do in that ring. I feel like I could have just put more combinations. I could have done a little bit more. But now I get the opportunity to do it again. Not everybody gets that opportunity. A lot of times, people get robbed, and they don’t they don’t get the rematch. So, I’m fortunate to get that rematch, and I’m looking to let my hands go more.”

“I feel like he might try to come out and do something different, but if you watch his fights, he fights the same way every time. He doesn’t switch it up too much. But, in my eyes, I’m just focused on what I can do. I’m good with rematches. I used to get them a lot in the amateurs and always avenged them. This is my first one in the pros, so I’m excited about it. It’s going to be fun.”

“I want the biggest fights. We’ve got the Emanuel Navarrete vs. Oscar Valdez fight on December 7. So, I feel like it will line up perfectly.”

VERONA, N.Y. (Sept. 9, 2024) — As the debate over their first encounter remains intense, Robson Conceição and O’Shaquie Foster are wasting no time running it back.
 
Conceição will defend his WBC junior lightweight world title against Foster on Saturday, Nov. 2, at Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York. Conceição dethroned Foster via split decision in a fiercely contested matchup in July.
 
In the 10-round co-feature, lightweight contender Raymond Muratalla returns against the upset-hungry Jesus Perez.

Conceição-Foster II and Muratalla-Perez headline a stacked card that will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.
 
Former world title challenger Abraham “El Super” Nova (23-3, 16 KOs) will see action on the undercard in a 10-round junior lightweight tilt against Mexico’s Humberto Galindo (14-3-2, 11 KOs). Nova looks to end 2024 on a high note after close split decision losses to Foster in February and Andres Cortes in June. 

Local favorite Bryce Mills (16-1, 5 KOs), from nearby Liverpool, New York, faces former world title challenger Hank Lundy (32-14-1, 14 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight contest.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets go on sale Friday, Sept. 13 at 10 a.m. ET and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Box Office, charge by phone by calling 800.771.7711, or online at Ticketmaster.com.

“Conceição and Foster are eager to prove themselves following their initial fight,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “This rematch is about setting things straight. Both want to show who the better man is, which will make for an exciting, competitive matchup, with the winner positioning himself for a chance at a unification bout.” 

Conceição (19-2-1, 9 KOs), Brazil’s first Olympic boxing gold medalist, turned professional in November 2016. His losses have been to unbeaten world champions, suffering a narrow points defeat to then-WBC champ Oscar Valdez in September 2021 and a loss to Shakur Stevenson in a bid for two world titles one year later. After a no contest against Nicolas Polanco in June 2023, Conceição fought then-WBO champion Emanuel Navarrete to a majority draw that November. In April, he stopped Jose Guardado in seven rounds. Motivated by his perseverance to win Olympic gold on his third attempt, Conceição captured world title glory on his fourth try.

Conceição said, “I’m fully focused and ready for my first title defense. Every fight is a new opportunity to prove myself, and on November 2, I’ll step into the ring with the same determination and hunger that brought me here. I respect O’Shaquie Foster, but I will show why I’m the true champion. My team and I have worked tirelessly, and I’m confident our efforts will be rewarded again. Foster, don’t run in the ring! See you in Verona!”

Foster (23-3, 12 KOs) turned pro in 2012 following a decorated amateur career with over 100 fights and an alternate spot on the U.S. Olympic team. After early-career setbacks, including a split decision to Rolando Chinea in July 2016, he mounted a successful resurgence under the guidance of trainer Bobby Benton. Foster then went on a 12-fight winning streak, capturing the WBC crown with a points triumph over Rey Vargas in February 2023 and defending it on enemy turf with a thrilling 12th-round stoppage of Rocky Hernandez last October. Foster made the second defense of his strap by decisioning Nova in February.

Foster said, “I can’t wait for November 2. I’m ready to go out there and make a statement. That bad decision woke something up in me, and now all I can think about is the ‘get back.’ I want to thank everybody who pushed for the right thing to be done. Now the focus is to become a two-time champion.”

Muratalla (21-0, 16 KOs), a 27-year-old contender on the cusp of a world title opportunity, had a flawless 2023, going 3-0 with three knockouts. In March, he rose off the deck following a first-round knockdown to stop Galindo with a body shot in the ninth. That May, he opened the Devin Haney-Vasiliy Lomachenko pay-per-view by dismantling Jeremiah Nakathila in two rounds. He capped off the year in November by dispatching Mexican power puncher Diego Torres in eight. In 2024, Muratalla tallied points verdicts in 10-rounders versus Xolisani Ndongeni in March and former world champion Tevin Farmer in July.

Muratalla said, “I’m excited to get back in the ring. I like staying active, so fighting for the third time this year will keep me sharp as I get closer to a world title. Jesus Perez is tough and experienced. He’ll bring the fight, which means it will be an exciting clash where I can show my skills.”

Perez (25-5, 18 KOs) went 21-0 with 16 knockouts before suffering his first defeat against then-unbeaten Ruslan Madiyev in May 2018. Since then, the Tijuana, Mexico, native has tested the likes of welterweight contender Alexis Rocha and eventual WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman Jr. In his last outing, he upset former world champion Joseph Diaz Jr. by split decision.
 

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About Turning Stone Resort Casino
Host of the November 2 event, Turning Stone Resort Casino is a Forbes Four-Star Award-winning destination resort, which continues to distinguish itself as a premier destination for major boxing events that are broadcast around the world. Boxing hall-of-famers and legends of the sport have attended fights, promoted cards, or fought at Turning Stone over the last two decades, including Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Miquel Cotto, Mike Tyson among many others.   
 
Turning Stone is the Official Resort Casino of the International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend, an international event celebrating boxing legends and current superstars in the sport. Throughout the year, Turning Stone and the Boxing Hall of Fame attract thousands of boxing fans, Hall of Famers and sports media to the region for a series of boxing events at Turning Stone that culminate in June with the International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend.
 
Turning Stone features world-class amenities including NY Rec & Social Club, featuring TS Sports, a state-of-the-art sports book an elevated sports lounge, five hotels, more than 20 signature dining options, two spas, a 125,000 square foot Las Vegas style gaming floor, multiple entertainment venues, five golf courses, and several bars and lounges offering live entertainment every weekend.

NEWARK, NJ–Shakur Stevenson retained the WBC Lightweight Title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Artem Harutyunanyan in front of 8,412 fans at The Prudential Center in Newark.

Stevenson and Harutyunyan each took turns pushing the pace with Stevenson countering very nicely. Late in the fight, Stevenson started to break down Harutyunyan with a body assault. Stevenson was never testes and coasted to the victory by scores of 119-109, 118-110 and 116-112.

Stevenson landed 170 of 446 punches. Harutyunyan was 74 of 423.

Stevenson, 134.1 lbs of Newark, NJ is 22-0. Harutyunyan, 134.8 lbs of Hamburg, GER is 12-2.

Stevenson

“It’s kind of hard to prove it if you don’t have a fighter who wants to fight back. He’s just trying to make sure he survives. He’s a good fighter. He’s tough. He’s strong. I would’ve wanted him to try a little harder, so that way it could be a more fun fight.”

“I have to cut off the ring a bit more. He’d go one way and then go the other way, so I gotta go back in the gym and work on cutting off the gym.”

“I think the boos were because of him. He didn’t try to make the fight.”

“We’ll see {what’s next}. Like I said, I want to fight the best fighters in boxing. That’s how you’ll see the best version of me. Put me in the ring with somebody else who wants to fight back and compete. That’s when you’ll get the best out of me.”

Harutyunyan

“Of course it was fun. Boxing is not a game. You have to fight. You get hit and have to hit back. It’s normal.”

“He belongs with the top fighters in this weight category, like me also.”

Conceicao Decisions Foster to Win Junior Lightweight Title

In his fourth try, at a world title, Robson Conceicao won the WBC Junior Lightweight title with a debatable 12-rpund split decision over defending champion O’Shaquie Foster.

The fight was void of sustainable action as neither fighter seized control. Fioster out landed Conceicao 109 (of 435)-78 (of 701), but the two of the three judges saw the fight for the Brazilian challenger 116-112 and 115-113. A third judge saw it 115-113 for Foster.

Conceicao, 129.5 lbs of Bahia, BRA is 19-2-1. Foster, 128.8 lbs of Ornage, TEX is 22-3.

CONCEICAO

“This is for my daughter. I promised this to my daughter, and I was able to fulfill that promise. I’m the champion of the world.”

“I do think I won the fight. I landed way more. He didn’t come to fight. He was running and running. I was the winner.”

FOSTER

“I thought it was shutout. I don’t know.”

“I don’t know, man. I thought it was easy. I thought it was an easy fight. I didn’t get touched except with a headbutt. I don’t know, man.”

“I’ll be back. But I want the rematch. They stole this from me. They stole this fight from me. I just wanted to show the world I could bang it out, and if I want to, I don’t have to get touched. I guess it wasn’t good enough for the judges.”

Keyshawn Davis Decisions Madueno

Keyshawn Davis remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Miguel Madueno in a lightweight bout.

It was a foul filled fight, but no points were taken away.

Davis landed 194 of 398 punches. Madueno was 63 of 461.

Davis, 134.8 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is now 11-0. Maduwno, 134.7 lbs of Mexico is now 31-3.

Keyshawn Davis

“He’s a rough type of a guy, a real physical type of guy. We were doing a lot of rough tactics in there, just trying to get under each other’s skin.”

“ We were both tough in there, and neither of our wills got broke.”

“I know {WBO lightweight champion} Denys Berinchyk mentioned my name. I’m definitely targeting Berinchyk.”

Abdullah Mason Destroys Luis LeBron in 3

Abdullah Mason took out Luis LeBron in round three of their eight-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Mason dropped Lebron with a hard left. With the face of Lebron bloodied, Mason dropped Lebron again with a right hook to the top of the head. In round three, Mason continued to pour it on as he landed a ripping combination that forced a stoppage at 1:18.

Mason, 134.8 lbs of Cleveland is 14-0 with 12 knockouts. LeBron, 135.8 lbs of San Juan, PR is 20-4-1.

“I guess we fed him a little bit of smoke, and he didn’t have the appetite for it.”

What’s next

“A lot of people say they’re ready to fight, but are they? Do they want the smoke?”

Eridson Garcia won a 10-round unanimous decision over William Foster III in a junior lightweight bout.

Garcia, 130.7 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 19-1. Foster, 130.4 lbs of New Haven, CT is 17-2.

Keith Colon stopped Hunter Turbyfill in round two of their four-round featherweight bout.

In round two, Colon dropped Trbyfill with a hard combination to the body. Turbyfill was reeling and a blistering flurry of punches ended the fight at 2:03.

Colon, 125.3 lbs of Newark is 1-0 with one knockout. Turblyfill, 124.1 lbs of Memphis, TN is 4-2.

Kelvin Davis won an eight-round majority decision over Kevin Johnson in a junior middleweight bout.

Davis, 142.9 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 78-73 twice and 76-76 and is now 13-0. Johnson, 142.9 lbs of Detroit is 12-4.

Ali Feliz remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Robinson Perez in a heavyweight bout.

In round three, Perez was cut around the right eye.

Feliz, 219.5 lbs of Danbury, CT won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 3-0. Perez, 245.1 lbs of Southbridge, MA is 2-1.

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN, presented by AutoZone: Shakur vs. Artem, will be broadcast live this Saturday, July 6, at 8:30 p.m. ET/ 5:30 p.m. PT on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+. The televised quadruple-header will take place at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Newark’s three-division king, Shakur Stevenson, is ready to defend his crown on native turf making the inaugural defense of his WBC lightweight world championship against Armenian-born German Olympian Artem Harutyunyan.

Stevenson (21-0, 10 KOs) was a silver medalist at the 2016 Rio Olympics and is now a three-weight world champion.  The 27-year-old won his first world title in 2019 by defeating Joet Gonzalez for the WBO featherweight strap. He won the WBO junior lightweight crown in 2021 by knocking out Jamel Herring and unified titles when he notched a one-sided decision over Oscar Valdez the following year. Last November, he bested Edwin De Los Santos by unanimous decision to win the WBC lightweight crown, he is now making his first defense of that title.

Harutyunyan (12-1, 7 KOs) earned an Olympic bronze medal for Germany in 2016 and started his pro career the following year. He jumped out to a 12-0 record while fighting exclusively in Germany, including a win over then-unbeaten Samuel Molina for a regional title. Last July, he made his U.S. debut against Frank Martin, losing a narrow decision.

In the co-feature, O’Shaquie Foster will defend his WBC junior lightweight world title against Brazilian Olympic gold medalist and three-time world title challenger Robson Conceição.

Foster (22-2, 12 KOs) had a distinguished amateur career, including an alternate spot in the 2012 U.S. Olympic team before joining the paid ranks later that year. After early setbacks, he returned under trainer Bobby Benton and went 12-0, winning the WBC world title in February 2023 with a points victory over Rey Vargas. Later that year, he defended the title with a dramatic, come-from-behind 12^th-round knockout of Rocky Hernandez. He returns after securing a well-earned split decision over Abraham Nova earlier this year.

Conceição (18-2-1, 9 KOs), Brazil’s first Olympic boxing gold medalist, turned pro in 2016. His only losses have come in world championship tries, including a draw against three-weight world champion Emanuel Navarrete last November. In April, Conceição scored a seventh-round TKO over Jose Guardado.

In the 10-round lightweight special feature, Keyshawn Davis will take on Mexican puncher Miguel Madueño. Davis (10-0, 7 KOs), from Norfolk, Virginia, quickly rose from prospect to contender. After going 3-0 as a pro, he earned a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. Since the end of that year, he has amassed seven wins. In 2023, he stopped Anthony Yigit in nine rounds and defeated Francesco Patera. Despite his victory last year over Nahir Albright being overturned due to a positive marijuana test, Davis returned in February to decisively defeat former two-weight world champion Jose Pedraza via sixth-round TKO

Madueño (31-2, 28 KOs) bounced back from a points setback to Canadian contender Steve Claggett last November by decisioning Justin Pauldo in February.

And, in the eight-round lightweight televised opener, Abdullah Mason (13-0, 11 KOs) will fight Puerto Rican veteran Luis Lebron (20-5-1, 13 KOs).

Undercard action begins at 6:10 p.m. ET/ 3:10 p.m. PT exclusively on ESPN+.

Calling the action will be ESPN’s Joe Tessitore, Hall of Famer Timothy Bradley, Jr., Mark Kriegel, and Bernardo Osuna, who was recently inducted into the National Boxing Hall of Fame.

ESPN.com

ESPN’s Mike Coppinger will have updates following Saturday’s main event between Shakur Stevenson and Artem Harutyunyan.

ESPN+: On Demand Shows, Archives & Premium Articles

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Shakur vs. Artem (All Times ET)

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NEWARK, N.J. (May 7, 2024) — Newark’s three-division king is ready to defend his crown on native turf.

Shakur Stevenson will make the inaugural defense of his WBC lightweight world championship against Armenian-born German Olympian Artem Harutyunyan on Saturday, July 6, at Prudential Center in his hometown of Newark, New Jersey.

In the co-feature, O’Shaquie Foster will defend his WBC junior lightweight world title against Brazilian Olympic gold medalist and three-time world title challenger Robson Conceição.

In the 10-round lightweight televised opener, Keyshawn Davis will take on Mexican veteran Miguel Madueño.

Stevenson-Harutyunyan, Foster-Conceição, and Davis-Madueño will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN, Deportes and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Universum Boxing, tickets go on sale Wednesday, May 22 at 2 p.m. ET via Ticketmaster.com.

“There is a unique connection between Shakur and the City of Newark, and we are thrilled he’s returning for another hometown appearance against a tough opponent in Artem Harutyunyan,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “O’Shaquie Foster does not shy away from the best opposition, and I know Robson Conceição is motivated to pull off the upset. And with Keyshawn Davis on the card against a rugged contender in Madueño, this is quite the tripleheader we have in store in Brick City.”

“To once again welcome back Top Rank, ESPN, and Shakur Stevenson for the third time in two years is a great honor for Prudential Center and the entire city of Newark,” said Dylan Wanagiel, VP of Sports Properties & Special Events for Prudential Center. “We look forward to hosting an unforgettable evening filled with history-making moments in the heart of New Jersey as Shakur takes on a formidable opponent in Artem Harutyunyan for the WBC Lightweight Title.  Following consecutive record-breaking events with Shakur headlining, we are excited to showcase the sweet science in our world class venue, further solidifying Newark’s reputation for marquee events around the world.”

Stevenson (21-0, 10 KOs) has won world titles in three weight classes during his seven-year run. After securing a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics, he made his pro debut in 2017 and swiftly moved up the ranks. He captured his first world title by defeating Joet Gonzalez for the WBO featherweight strap in October 2019. Two years later, he stopped Jamel Herring in 10 rounds to earn the WBO title at 130 pounds. The 26-year-old southpaw unified world titles by handing then-WBC champion Oscar Valdez his first loss in April 2022. Stevenson then claimed two consecutive victories at Prudential Center by defeating Conceição that September and stopping Japanese contender Shuichiro Yoshino in six last April. Hee outpointed Dominican puncher Edwin De Los Santos last November to become the WBC lightweight world champion.

Stevenson said, “It feels good to be going back home to Newark, where they appreciate a young legend, and to make my first title defense at 135. On July 6, Down Goes Artem!”

Harutyunyan (12-1, 7 KOs) captured an Olympic bronze medal for Germany in 2016. He started his pro career the following year and went 12-0 in his adopted country with triumphs over Samuel Molina in September 2021 and Humberto Galindo in June 2022. Last July, he made his U.S. debut in a competitive showdown against Frank Martin. The 33-year-old had success with his aggression and right hand, though Martin rallied late to win a narrow unanimous decision. Harutyunyan will have his first world title shot against his second consecutive southpaw rival.

Harutyunyan said, “I respect Shakur Stevenson as a champion, but I’m coming to shock his hometown fans and win the WBC lightweight championship. This is the opportunity of a lifetime, and I will take full advantage of it. This will be my second fight in the U.S. I’ve learned and progressed since my loss to Frank Martin.”

Foster (22-2, 12 KOs) had a distinguished amateur career with more than 100 fights and an alternate spot in the 2012 U.S. Olympic team before entering the paid ranks later that year. He encountered two early-career setbacks, including a split decision defeat to Rolando Chinea in July 2016. He returned more than a year later with renowned trainer Bobby Benton and has since gone 12-0. Last February, he won the WBC world title with a points verdict over two-division world champion Rey Vargas before a dramatic 12th-round knockout win against Eduardo “Rocky” Hernandez in October. The following month, Foster signed a long-term promotional deal with Top Rank. He returns after securing a well-earned split decision over Abraham Nova in February.

Foster said, “I’m excited to be back for my third title defense. Conceição is a great opponent who has been in the ring with a lot of top fighters, but come July 6, we will be ready. I will keep proving that I’m one of the best fighters in the world.”

Conceição (18-2-1, 9 KOs), Brazil’s inaugural Olympic boxing gold medalist, turned pro in November 2016. His only losses have come against unbeaten world champions, including a close decision against then-WBC champ Valdez in September 2021. Following the setback to Stevenson, Conceição’s June 2022 showdown against Nicolas Polanco ended in a no contest. He followed up by challenging three-weight world champion Emanuel Navarrete last November, rising twice from the canvas and battling to a majority draw. In April, he registered a seventh-round TKO against Jose Guardado in April.

Conceição said, “I’m really looking forward to this fight against O’Shaquie Foster. This title is something I’ve been aiming for a long time, and I’m not going to let this opportunity slip away. I can guarantee that I’ll give my best; I’ll leave everything in the ring. Blood, sweat, and dedication—everything will be invested in this title bout. I’m ready to face any challenge that comes my way. Let’s go all in towards victory! Brazil!”

Davis (10-0, 7 KOs), from Norfolk, Virginia, made a quick transition from prospect to contender. After going 3-0 as a pro, he earned a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. In November 2021, he inked a long-term promotional pact with Top Rank and has amassed seven wins since. In 2023, he stopped Anthony Yigit in nine rounds in April and vanquished Francesco Patera via 10-round decision in July. After his October win over Nahir Albright was overturned to a no contest due to a positive marijuana test, Davis returned with renewed vigor in February to dispatch former two-weight world champion Jose Pedraza in six. Madueño (31-2, 28 KOs) tallied a three-fight winning spree after a decision defeat to Jezreel Corrales in March 2022. The streak was halted by a points setback against Canadian contender Steve Claggett last November, but he bounced back quickly by decisioning Justin Pauldo in February.

Davis said, “Madueño is a tough fighter with more than 30 pro fights, and I have a lot of respect for what he brings to the table. I love fighting in Newark. The fans there are special, and I am going to feed off their energy and put on a show.”

Undercard action — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ — includes the return of 20-year-old lightweight prodigy Abdullah Mason and unbeaten heavyweight prospect Damian “Polish Hussar” Knyba.

Mason (13-0, 11 KOs) will make his third 2024 appearance in an eight-rounder against Puerto Rican veteran Luis Lebron. The Cleveland native went 5-0 with four knockouts last year before stopping Benjamin Gurment in two in February. He is coming off a fourth-round TKO win over Ronal Ron in April. Lebron (20-5-1, 13 KOs) has given stiff tests to Duke Ragan and Henry Lebron and stopped Giovanni Gutierrez in February.  

Knyba (13-0, 7 KOs), a 6-foot-7 behemoth with an 86-inch reach, returns in an eight-rounder versus Richard Lartey (16-6, 13 KOs). He joined the Top Rank stable in January 2023 and scored a TKO win over Curtis Harper that April followed by decisions over Helaman Olguin in June and Michael Coffie in December.

# # #

ABOUT PRUDENTIAL CENTER

Prudential Center is the world-class sports and entertainment venue located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. Opened in October 2007, the state-of-the-art arena is the home of the National Hockey League’s (NHL) three-time Stanley Cup Champion New Jersey Devils, Seton Hall University’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball program, and more than 210 concerts, family shows and special events each year. Ranked in the Top 5 worldwide by Pollstar, Billboard and Venues Today, Prudential Center is recognized as one of the premier venues in the United States, and hosts over 2 million guests annually. For more information about Prudential Center, visit https://www.prucenter.com/ and follow the arena on Facebook, X and Instagram @PruCenter. Prudential Center is a HBSE property.

Jared Anderson won a 10-round unanimous decision over former cruiserweight world champion Ryad Merhy in a listless heavyweight bout at the American Bank center in Corpus Christi, Texas.

The bout lacked action as it seemed that Merhy was happy staying out of close range and eating jabs and right hands all fight from Anderson.

Anderson landed 128 of 662 punches. Merhy was a putrid 34 of 144. Merhy threw the third lowest amount of punches in the history of Compubox for a 10-round bout.

Anderson, 250.9 lbs of Toledo, OH won by scores of 100-90 twice and 99-91 and is now 17-0. Merhy, 235.6 lbs of Brussels, BEL is 32-3.

Anderson said, “Another day, another night in the office. I wanted to give the fans a better show, but what can you do when they show up to fight like him. It’s just another day in the office. We’re going to continue working.

“I stayed sharp for 10 rounds. That’s the biggest takeaway. I got to make some changes. I made some mistakes. I got hit with a few punches. I shouldn’t have gotten hit at all because he didn’t even come here to fight.

“I want all of the names. If I’m ranked with you and your name is near mine, then we can get it crackin’. We’re coming to knock everybody off.”

Ajagba Wins Split Decision over Vianello

Efe Ajagba won a 10-round split-decision over Guido Vianello in a heavyweight bput.

In round two, Vianello hurt Ajagba badly when he landed a hard right to the head. Ajagba got it together and took the middle rounds by boxing and showing off his skills. Vianello made a late push but it feel just short as Ajagba won by scores of 96-94 on two cards and a third card was 96-94 in favor of Vianello.

Ajagba landed 186 of 583. Vianello was 177 of 622.

Ajagba, 241.2 lbs of Ughello, NIG is 20-1. Vianello, 244.5 lbs of Rome, ITA is 12-2-1.

Conceicao Stops Guardado in 7

Former two-time world title challenger Robson Conceicao stopped Jose Guardado in a scheduled eight-round junior lightweight bout.

In round nine, Conceicao dropped Guardado with a hard left to the body. Guardado was hurt badly and eat a barrage of punches until the fight was stopped when he was sent to the canvas for a second time at 2:27.

Conceicao, 131.6 lbs of Bahia, BRA is now 18-2-1 with nine knockouts. Guadardo, 131.5 lbs of Ensanada, MEX is 15-2-1.

Julian Delgado made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Juan Tamez in a middleweight fight.

Delgado, 159.3 lbs of Corpus Christi, TX won by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37 and is 1-0. Raez, 159 lbs of Laredo, TX is 1-1.

Ruben Villa IV won a 10-round unanimous decision over Cristian Cruz in a featherweight bout.

Villa, 125.6 lbs of Salinas, CA won by scores of 98-92 twice and 97-93 and is now 22-1. Cruz, 125.1 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 22-7-1.

John Rincon remained undefeated with a six-round majority decision over Yainel Alvarez in a welterweight bout.

Rincon, 143 lbs of Corpus Christi, TX won by scores of 59-55, 58-56 and 57-57 and is now 9-0. Alvarez, 143.5 lbs of Ciego de Avila, CUB is now 3-4-2.

Abdullah Mason remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Ronal Ron in a scheduled eight-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Mason landed a perfect left that put Ron on the canvas. In round three, Mason dropped Ron with a hard body shot and then a left to the head. In round four, Mason landed a vicious barrage of head and body shots that forced referee Laurence Cole to stop the bout at 1:02.

Mason, 134.6 lbs of Cleveland, OH is 13-0 with 11 knockouts. Ron, 134.7 lbs of Guarico, VEN is 14-6.

Charly Suarez remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Louie Coria in a junior lightweight fight.

In round eight, Coria landed a left that put Suarez backed into the ropes that was ruled a knockdown. That was not enough as Suarez dominated with boxing ability through just about the whole fight.

Suarez, 131.8 lbs of San Isidro, PHL won by scores of 7-74 twice and 76-75 and is now 17-0. Coria, 131.7 lbs of Moreno Valley, CA is 15-7.

Alejandro Guerrero scored an upset by stopping previously undefeated Jalen Walker in round seven of an eight-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Guerrero dropped Walker with a straight left hand. In round four, Guerrero scored another knockdown when Guerrero landed a right to Walker’s body.

In round six, Walker was credited with a knockdown after he landed a combination that bent Guerrero over that was ruled a count. In round seven, Guerrero landed a hard uppercut that hurt Walker on the ropes and the towel was thrown in by Walker’s corner after a follow up flurry had Walker defenseless at 1:36.

Ali Feliz made a successful pro debut with a second round stoppage of Anthony Woodson III in a scheduled four-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Feliz dropped Woodson with a hard left and right to the chin and the fight was stopped at

Feliz, 219.1 lbs of Danbury, CT is 1-0 with one knockout. Woodson, 280.2 lbs of Gary, IN 1-2.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (April 11, 2024) — Unbeaten heavyweight phenom Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson (16-0, 15 KOs) looks to overcome his biggest challenge to date against Belgian contender Ryad Merhy (32-2, 26 KOs) this Saturday, April 13, in the 10-round main event at American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas.

In the 10-round heavyweight co-feature, Nigerian puncher Efe Ajagba (19-1, 14 KOs) and Italian standout Guido “The Gladiator” Vianello (12-1-1, 10 KOs) will clash in a battle of 2016 Olympians.

The eight-round televised opener features Brazilian three-time world title challenger Robson Conceição (17-2-1, 8 KOs) against Mexico’s Jose Guardado (15-1-1, 5 KOs).

Anderson-Merhy, Ajagba-Vianello and Conceição-Guardado will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (5:50 p.m. ET/2:50 p.m. PT) will feature hometown heroes Julian Delgado and John Rincon. Delgado will make his pro debut in a four-round middleweight tilt against Juan C. Tamez (1-0), while Rincon (8-0, 2 KOs) faces Yainiel Alvarez (3-3-2, 1 KO) in a six-rounder at welterweight. 

The undercard also features a gamut of Top Rank’s up and coming talent, including lightweight prodigy Abdullah Mason (12-0, 10 KOs), who puts his unbeaten record on the line against Ronal Ron (14-4, 11 KOs).

Newly-signed prospects Jalen Walker (12-0-1 10 KOs) and Ali Feliz will make their debuts under the Top Rank banner. Walker takes on Alejandro Guerrero (12-4, 9 KOs) in a eight-round junior lightweight fight, while Team USA heavyweight Feliz enters the paid ranks in a four-rounder versus Anthony Woodson III (1-1, 1 KO).

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster.com.

At Thursday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Jared Anderson

“Expect the best version of me. Expect to see me shine. Expect to see me dominate and show why I belong here.”

“Merhy has a different level of experience. But, everything from my amateur pedigree and what I’ve always done to everyone, whether they have experience or not, will play a different role.”

“The challenge {with smaller fighters} is that you have to sometimes deal with their speed, which we trained for. But I don’t really see to many challenges with this. I don’t really see too many challenges. I’m used to fighting all types of different people. I’m used to training with all types of people. So, if you don’t prepare properly, then you won’t perform properly. So, just know that we came prepared for sure.”

Ryad Merhy

“I’m very happy to be here. What a great opportunity. Who would have ever thought that from a small country like Belgium I would be able to show my talent in America? I hope to represent my country.”

“I’m not looking for anything. They’re looking for me. I’m a cruiserweight who has moved up to the heavyweight division because I was called out. They keep calling me, and now I’m here.”

“Jared is a very talented fighter. He is a great prospect. But this Saturday I’m going to show that he still has a long way to go. I have gone 177 rounds as a pro, while Anderson has only gone 46.  So, we’ll see if that plays a big difference on Saturday.”

Efe Ajagba

“We know each other well. We’ve sparred each other. So, we know each other a lot. We have Olympic backgrounds, so that’s how it happened.”

I want to see what he brings to the table. We sparred. But that’s sparring. That’s different from an actual fight. He thinks that I’m going to fight like I how sparred. But it’s not going to be like that. This fight means a lot because it is a stepping stone.”

Guido Vianello

“We know each other. We are two aggressive fighters in the ring, I can’t wait to fight. I can’t wait to see what happens in there.”

“I expect a good fight. This is a great opportunity. I’m really happy. The happiness is the strongest power I have. So, let’s see who is the best and fight.”

“I have zero pressure because I always just think about me. I’m happy because Top Rank has a lot of heavyweights. This is good for us because we can make a lot of good fights.”

Robson Conceição

“For sure it was a tough fight with Emanuel Navarrete. It was a war. And I learned a lot from it. I also prepared a lot for this fight. And I think I will get another title shot soon.”

John Rincon

“I’m excited to be back in my hometown. I just gotta keep doing what I’m doing. The sky is the limit for me. I’m ready, and I’ll see you all on Saturday.” 

Ali Feliz

“This is huge. I’ve been waiting for this moment for years. And there’s no better place to start it than Top Rank. I’m excited to start the journey.”

Saturday, April 13
 

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)
 

Jared Anderson vs. Ryad Merhy, 10 rounds, Anderson’s WBO International and WBC USA Heavyweight Titles

Efe Ajagba vs. Guido Vianello, Ajagba’s WBC Silver Heavyweight Title

Robson Conceição vs. Jose Guardado, 8 rounds, junior lightweight
 

ESPN+ (5:50 p.m. ET/2:50 p.m. PT)
 

Julian Delgado vs. Juan C. Tamez, 4 rounds, middleweight

Ali Feliz vs. Anthony Woodson III, 4 rounds, heavyweight

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (Feb. 28, 2024) — Undefeated heavyweight phenom Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson is angling for another big knockout. The fighting pride of Toledo, Ohio, steps up in class to face Belgian contender Ryad Merhy on Saturday, April 13, in the 10-round main event at American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas.

In the 10-round heavyweight co-feature, Nigerian puncher Efe Ajagba and Italian standout Guido “The Gladiator” Vianello will meet in a battle of 2016 Olympians.

The eight-round televised opener features three-time world title challenger Robson Conceicao, as he looks to keep his junior lightweight world title hopes alive against the upset-minded Jose Guardado.

Anderson-Merhy, Ajagba-Vianello and Conceição Guardado will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets go on sale Tuesday, March 5 at 10 a.m. CST via Ticketmaster.com.

“Jared Anderson is the most exciting young heavyweight in the world, and he’s stepping up against his toughest opponent to date. Corpus Christi is a great fight town, and I can’t wait for the fans there to have a front row seat for the future heavyweight champion,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “Efe Ajagba is one of the division’s biggest punchers, but Guido Vianello is a skilled fighter who demanded a step up in competition. If you like heavyweights, this is a can’t-miss card.”

Anderson (16-0, 15 KOs) had a banner 2023 that saw him go 3-0 with a pair of knockouts. In April, he ended the unbeaten run of George Arias, stopping the Dominican slickster in only three rounds. Less than three months later, Anderson made his triumphant Toledo homecoming and faced former world champion Charles Martin in front of more than 7,000 adoring fans. Anderson earned a clear 10-round decision over Martin and carried that momentum to Tulsa, Oklahoma, in August, where he stopped Andriy Rudenko in five rounds.

“This is going to be the start of a big year, and I can’t wait to show out in front of the fans in Corpus Christi and everyone watching on ESPN,” Anderson said. “Merhy is a solid fighter, but he has never faced a heavyweight like me. He’ll see that in person on April 13.”

Merhy (32-2, 26 KOs) is an Ivory Coast native who was raised in Belgium, where most of his pro fights have taken place. He won a secondary cruiserweight world title in 2021 and then moved up in weight to pursue heavyweight glory. Merhy saw his seven-bout winning streak end when he dropped a 12-round decision to Kevin Lerena in Lerena’s home country of South Africa. Last December, he traveled to Paris for a bout with hometown hero and Olympic gold medalist Tony Yoka. He upset Yoka by split decision to breathe new life into his heavyweight campaign.

“After ending 2023 with a great performance, I am looking for another great performance, this time on American soil against the ‘future heavyweight hope,’” Merhy said. “What I like about my current position is that I have nothing to prove. I accepted this fight because I don’t see Anderson as a big danger. It’s up to him to prove himself against a small heavyweight like me. I feel no pressure. See you on April 13, Jared.”

Ajagba (19-1, 14 KOs) reignited his career following his first defeat, an October 2021 decision against Frank Sanchez. He began his 2023 campaign in January with a 10-round decision over then-unbeaten Stephan Shaw and continued that momentum with a fourth-round disqualification victory over Zhan Kossobutskiy in August. Ajagba finished the year in grand fashion with November’s fourth-round stoppage over one-time amateur nemesis Joe Goodall.

“I remember Guido from the Rio Olympics, and he is a very skilled and powerful fighter,” Ajagba said. “My goal is to become heavyweight champion, and in order for me to accomplish my dream, I have to be at my best against Guido.” 

Vianello (12-1-1, 10 KOs) suffered a stroke of bad luck on the Ajagba-Shaw undercard, losing via sixth-round TKO to Jonnie Rice due to a cut eye caused by a punch. He was leading on the cards when the fight was stopped. Vianello bounced back nine months later, shutting out veteran Curtis Harper over eight rounds. He then returned to his knockout ways in February, blasting out Moses Johnson in one round on the O’Shaquie Foster-Abraham Nova undercard in New York City.

Vianello said, “This is a big opportunity for me to fight one of the top heavyweights in the world, and I did not hesitate when it was offered. I am ready to step up to the plate, and I look forward a great fight on April 13.”

Conceição (17-2-1, 8 KOs), Brazil’s first-ever Olympic boxing gold medalist, turned pro in November 2016. He dropped decisions in world title contests to Oscar Valdez and Shakur Stevenson, and in November 2023, he recovered from a pair of knockdowns to salvage a draw against three-weight world champion Emanuel Navarrete. Guardado (15-1-1, 5 KOs), from Ensenada, Mexico, has never fought outside of his home country and is coming off a second-round stoppage over Aramis Solis last November.

In scheduled undercard action, streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+:

• Puerto Rican junior lightweight southpaw Henry Lebron (19-0, 10 KOs), who is ranked in the top 10 by the WBO and IBF, will face Filipino contender Charly Suarez (16-0, 9 KOs) in a 10-rounder. Lebron turned away unbeaten prospect William Foster III by majority decision last November to continue his climb up the rankings.
   
• Corpus Christi-born welterweight prospect John Rincon (8-0, 2 KOs) looks to thrill the hometown fans in a six-rounder. Rincon fought at American Bank Center last September and tallied a six-round decision over Bryan Ismael Rodriguez Rivera.
   
• One of the sport’s fastest-rising stars, lightweight prospect Abdullah Mason (12-0, 10 KOs), returns in an eight-rounder against Ronal Ron (14-5, 11 KOs). Mason, a 19-year-old southpaw prodigy from Cleveland, Ohio, obliterated Benjamin Gurment with an overhand left in the second round on the Teofimo Lopez-Jamaine Ortiz undercard in Las Vegas.
   
• Featherweight contender Ruben Villa (21-1, 7 KOs) will fight Mexican veteran Cristian Cruz Chacon (22-6-1, 11 KOs) in a 10-rounder

Follow all the action as Shakur Stevenson and Edwin De Los Santos fight for the vacant WBC Lightweight Championship. The action begins at 10:30 PM ET with The WBO Junior Lightweight Title bout between Emanuel Navarrete and Robson Conceicao.

THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY. NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED

Round 1: Short left from Stevenson..Left to body..

ROUND 2 Jab from Stevenson..De Los santos lands a body shot…

ROUND 3 2 Jabs from Stevenson…

ROUND 4 Triple Jab from Stevenson..Jab to body from De Los Santos..Left to body from Stevenson

ROUND 5 Body shot from De Los Santos..

ROUND 6 De Los Santos lands a double jab to the body…

ROUND 7 Jab from Stevenson

ROUND 8 Good jab from De Los Santos..Good Jab from Stevenson..

ROUND 9 Nice right from Stevenson..Good exchange…Right Hook from Stevenson

ROUND 10 Right hook from Stevenson..Right hook..Another right hook…

ROUND 11 Double right hook from Stevenson..

ROUND 12  1-2 from Stevenson..Right from De Los Santos…

116-112 TWICE AND 115-113 FOR STEVENSON

Round 1 Conceicao lands a combination…Body shot

ROUND 2 Right to body from Navarrete..Right from Conceicao..4 punch combination from Navarrete

ROUND 3 Navarrete has small cut on bridge of nose..3 Punch combination from Navarrete..Counter from Conceicao..

ROUND 4 Right to body from Navarrete..Short right and LEFT UPPERCUT AND DOWN GOES CONCEICAO..Right drives Conceicao off balance

ROUND 5 Short right and sweeping left from Navarrete…Combination…Left to body from Conceicao..

ROUND 6 Counter right from Conceicao..RightCombination from Navarrete..1-2..Good hook..Conceicao cut on the bridge of his nose.

ROUND 7 BIG RIGHT TO THE BODY AND DOWN GOES CONCEICAO

ROUND 8 Right from Conceicao.  Blood from mouth of Conceicao…Left hook hurts Conceicao…

ROUND 9  Doctor checks Conceicao before round…1-2 from Conceicao…Right to body from Navarrete…Body shot..Another..

ROUND 11 Right from Conceicao..Combination from Navarrete

ROUND 12 1-2 from Conceicao..Short right…

114-112 NAVARRETE…113-113 ON 2 CARDS…DRAW

In a fight that was void of action, Shakur Stevenson became a three-division world champion as he captured the WBC Lightweight Title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Edwin De Los Santos at The T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Not much happened in the fight as neither guy pushed forward. Stevenson was able to jab more effectively, while the handful of times that De Los Santos tried to press, he was ineffective as the elusive Stevenson was never in range.

Stevenson landed 65 of 209 punches. De Los Santos was 40 of 316.

Stevenson picked it up over the final six-rounds and won by scores of 115-113 and 116-112 twice.

Stevenson, 133.8 lbs of Newark, NJ is now 21-0. De Los Santos, 134.3 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 16-2.

Stevenson said, “I had a bad performance tonight. That’s all I’m really focused on. I wasn’t feeling too good, so I’ll live with it. It’s okay. I came here and got the victory, and that’s all I wanted to do.

“I just didn’t feel good. I didn’t feel good before the fight. Honestly, I had already told myself that if I feel like this in the ring and if it’s not going well, I’m going to make sure that I box and get the victory.”

De Los Santos said, “We all know what happened. He came for a track meet. He didn’t come to fight. I showed that I am on a higher level because he never stood and fought like he does with other fighters.

“I did my job. He came to survive. That’s what he did. They gifted him the title, but I’m the people’s champion.”

Navarrete and Conceicao Fight to Draw

Emanuel Navarrete and Robson Conceicao fought to a 12-round majority draw in a bout for Navarrete’s WBO Junior Lightweight title.

In round two, Navarrete had a small cut on the bridge of the nose. In round four, Navarrete dropped Conceicao with a left uppercut. In round six, Cinceicao was cut on the bridge of his nose.

In round nose, Navarrete landed a perfect right to the body that put Conceicao down.

Navarrete landed 116 of 47 punches. Conceicao was 213 of 852.

Navarrete, 130 lbs of San Juan, MEX won by a 114-112 score, while two cards were even at 113-113.

Navarrete is 38-1-1. Conceicao, 129.3 lbs of Bahia, BRA is 17-2-1.

Navarrete said, “The decision is well-deserved. Robson is a great fighter. He left his heart in the ring. There were some details with regard to technique, but we accomplished what we said we would do. We gave a great show for the fans. And, at least, I am very happy to come away with the title.
 
“He deserves the rematch, but that decision doesn’t depend 100 percent on me. But, if it does happen, I would train even better. He knows how I fight, and I know how he fights, so it would make for an excellent fight.”
 
Conceição said, “It was a hard fight. He is very strong. It was a difficult. But I know what I did tonight.
 
“It was a good fight. It deserves a rematch. If we do get the rematch, we will both train harder and will give an even better fight.”

Brian Norman Jr. remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Quinton Randall in a battle of undefeated welterweights.

In round four, Norman was cut over his right eye.

Norman landed 74 of 281 punches. Randall was 71 of 299.

Norman, 146.4 lbs of Atlanta, GA won by scores of 99-91 twice and 97-93 and is now 25-0. Randall, 145.3 lbs of Houston is 13-1-1.

Floyd Diaz remained undefeated with an eight-round split decision over Max Ornelas in a bantamweight bout.

In round two, Diaz dropped Ornelas with a leaping and wide left hook. In round three, it was a jab that put Ornelas on the canvas.

In round five, Diaz began to swell over his right eye.

Diaz, 117.7 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 78-72, 77-73 and Ornelas took a card by a 76-74. score.

Diaz is now 10-0. Ornelas, 117.9 lbs of Las Vegas is 15-2-1.

Troy Isley won an eight-round unanimous decision over upset-specialist Vladimir Hernandez in a middleweight bout.

Isley, 159.7 lbs of Alexandria, VA won by scores of 77-75 on all cards and is now 11-0. Hernandez, 156.8 lbs of Ciudad, MEX is 14-6.

Emiliano Fernando Vargas stopped Brandon Mendoza in round two of their six-round lightweight bout.

Vargas, 135.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 8-0 with seven knockouts. Mendoza, 134.9 lbs of Los Angeles is 6-3.

In round one, Vargas dropped Mendoza with a left hook that was followed by a right Hand. A second knockdown was ruled after the round when a right hand made the right glove of Mendoza touch the canvas. In round two, Vargas landed a double right over the top that put Mendoza down and the fight was stopped at 57 seconds.

In a battle of undefeated heavyweights, Jackson Murray won a six-round unanimous decision over Steven Torres.

In round three, Murray dropped Torres with a right hook to the side of the head.

Murray, 230.7 lbs of Sydney, AUS won by scores of 60-53 on all cards and is now 6-0. Torres, 240.7 lbs of Reading, PA is 6-1-1.

Abdullah Mason stopped Jose Cardenas in round two of their six-round lightweight fight.

In round one, Mason dropped Cardenas with a double left. In round two, Mason dumped Cardenas with a perfect one-two and the fight was stopped at 1:55.

Mason, 134.4 lbs of Cleveland is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Cardenas, 134.6 lbs of Laredo, TX is 7-2.

Hugo Micallef stopped Sergio Odabai after round four of their six-round junior welterweight bout.

Micallef, 142.7 lbs of Monte Carlo, MON is 9-0 with two knockouts. Odabai, 141.7 lbs of Vienna, AUS 6-2-1.

Giovanni Sarchioto remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage over Lucas de Abreu in a six-round super middleweight fight.

Sarchioto dropped de Abreu twice in round three. The first coming from a series of right hands. Sarchioto finisehed off de Abreu with a hard right that put his backside and the fight was stopped at 2:06.

Sarchioto, 167 lbs of Atazio, ITA is now 9-0 with eight knockouts. de Abreu, 166.3 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA 14-5.

LAS VEGAS (Nov. 13, 2023) – Pound-for-pound star Shakur Stevenson (20-0, 10 KOs) and Dominican slugger Edwin De Los Santos (16-1, 14 KOs) hosted their public workouts today ahead of their vacant WBC lightweight world title showdown this Thursday, Nov. 16 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. 
 
In the world championship co-feature, Mexico’s Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete (38-1, 31 KOs) defends his WBO junior lightweight strap against Brazilian two-time world title challenger Robson Conceição (17-2, 8 KOs).
 
Stevenson-De Los Santos and Navarrete-Conceição will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.
 
At Monday’s media workout, this is what the fighters had to say.
 

Shakur Stevenson

“I can’t wait. It’s going to be very exciting. You’ve got the tough Edwin De Los Santos, but I’m here to whoop his a**!”

“We can’t think about what comes after. I’m not worried about after. We’ve got a job to do Thursday night. I’m coming here to get my belt.”

“I think that Edwin is a good fighter. I think he’s more of a boxer than what he’s trying to act like. So, he’s going to try to move around. And I’m going to figure him out by the fourth round.”

Edwin De Los Santos

“We are not here to hesitate. We are here to fight. We accepted the fight, and we are going for it. I think at one point I was being underestimated. But now he has accepted the reality that he is going to have a very tough fight.”

“I feel very good because it is one of my dreams to be in Las Vegas and fight for a world title, which will happen this November 16.”

Emanuel Navarrete

“I’m happy to be here with all of you and because you are all joining me at this public workout. And well, it’s going to be one more fight. I’m going to defend my title at 130 pounds.”

“Obviously, we know who I am fighting. We know he is a real fighter. He is very strong and it will be difficult. But like always we are going to defend the title with the heart of a Mexican warrior.”

“Being in Las Vegas is a dream for many athletes, not just boxers. I think it’s the epicenter of the most important shows in the world. I think that being here for me is an honor, and I feel very grateful to be in front of all of you.”

Robson Conceição

“The day before what was going to be my last fight, I learned about this very good opportunity. I accepted it immediately. My team and I decided not to fight in order to better prepare for this fight on November 16th.”

“It’s a very important moment for my career to be in this huge event. There are many good athletes who are participating in this event. We have Shakur Stevenson. We have Emanuel Navarrete, whom I admire a lot. He is a great champion. But this is my third opportunity. In the Olympic Games, I was able to win on my third attempt. And I will do the same in this third chance at a world title.”
 

Thursday, November 16

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT)

Shakur Stevenson vs. Edwin De Los Santos 12 rounds, Vacant WBC Lightweight World Title

Emanuel Navarrete vs. Robson Conceição, 12 rounds, Navarrete’s WBO Junior Lightweight World Title 
 

ESPN+ (5:40 p.m. ET/2:40 p.m. PT)
Brian Norman Jr. vs. Quinton Randall, 10 rounds, WBO International Welterweight Title

Giovanni Sarchioto vs. Lucas de Abreu, 6 rounds, super middleweight 

Top Rank presented by AutoZone: Stevenson vs. De Los Santos will be presented live this Thursday, November 16, at 10:30 p.m. ET/ 7:30 p.m. PT, on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ from T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada.

In the main event, Shakur Stevenson will attempt to become a three-weight world champion when he takes on Dominican puncher Edwin De Los Santos for the vacant WBC lightweight world title.

Stevenson (20-0, 10 KOs), from Newark, New Jersey, earned a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics and debuted as pro in 2017. He won titles in two divisions in his first five years in the paid ranks. In 2019 he toppled Joet Gonzalez to win the vacant WBO featherweight world championship. From there, he captured the WBO junior lightweight title in 2021 and went on to add the WBC strap to his collection in 2022 with a 12-round decision over Oscar Valdez.

De Los Santos (16-1, 14 KOs) is a hard-hitting southpaw from the Dominican Republic. He debuted in 2018 and notched his first 13 victories in his home country. In his U.S. debut, he suffered a razor-thin split decision loss to William Foster III. He hasn’t lost a fight since. This will be De Los Santos’ first shot at a world title.

In the world championship co-feature, Mexico’s Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete defends his WBO junior lightweight strap against Brazilian two-time world title challenger Robson Conceição.

Navarrete (38-1, 31 KOs) captured his first world title by defeating Isaac Dogboe for the WBO junior featherweight crown in December 2018. In February, Navarrete became a three-division champion by defeating Liam Wilson via ninth-round TKO for the WBO junior lightweight world title. Navarrete looks to make the second defense of his strap as the possibility of a title opportunity in a fourth weight division emerges on the horizon.

Conceição (17-2, 8 KOs) made history as Brazil’s first Olympic boxing gold medalist, turning pro under the Top Rank banner less than three months after the 2016 Rio Games. He’s made two valiant attempts at a world title, one in 2021 against Oscar Valdez and another in 2022 against Shakur Stevenson. Conceição will now get a third opportunity to call himself a world champion in the pro ranks.

The undercard, featuring a battle between unbeaten welterweights as well as a host of emerging prospects, streams exclusively on ESPN+ at 5:40 p.m. ET / 2:40 p.m. PT.

Calling the action will be ESPN’s Joe Tessitore, Hall of Famer, Timothy Bradley, Jr., Mark Kriegel, and Bernardo Osuna.

Special Programming:

Prior to Thursday’s event, ESPN will air three special programs:

• Top Rank Boxing on ESPN: Best of Shakur Stevenson: a one-hour look back at Shakur’s greatest fight moments.
• Blood, Sweat, & Tears: Stevenson vs. De Los Santos: a 30-minute all access preview inside both fight camps prior to Thursday’s battle.
• Trading Leather: Shakur Stevenson & Ochocinco: a 30-minute interview between Shakur and former All-Pro NFL superstar, Chad Ochocinco Johnson.

Program Schedule (All times ET)

The programs will also be available for replay on-demand in the ESPN App, on?ESPN.com?and on ESPN+. 

ESPN.com

Out Wednesday: How Shakur Stevenson became the most avoided boxer in the sport

ESPN+: On Demand Shows, Archives & Premium Articles

• Top Rank: Real Time– All-access with top fighters throughout fight week as they work their way to fight night. 
• Who Do U Fight 4?– Learn what drivesthe next generation of Top Rank stars. 
• State of Boxing– Post-show coverage of the biggest fights on ESPN and ESPN+. 
• Best of Boxing Spotlight – An archive of the all-time best Top Rank fights. 

Follow @ESPNRingside: Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) TikTok

Stevenson vs. De Los Santos (All Times ET)

LAS VEGAS (Nov. 8, 2023) — For Brazilian Olympic gold medalist Robson Conceição, he hopes the third time will be the charm.

Conceição will have his third world title opportunity when he takes on WBO junior lightweight world champion Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete on Thursday, Nov. 16 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Navarrete-Conceição will serve as the co-feature to the vacant WBC lightweight title clash between pound-for-pound star Shakur Stevenson and Dominican slugger Edwin De Los Santos.

Stevenson-De Los Santos and Navarrete-Conceição will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Sampson Boxing, tickets are on sale now via AXS.com.

Conceição (17-2, 8 KOs) made history as Brazil’s first Olympic boxing gold medalist, turning pro under the Top Rank banner less than three months after the 2016 Rio Games. In September 2021, he earned his first shot at a world title against Oscar Valdez, who was then the unbeaten WBC champ at junior lightweight. Although he lost a close points verdict, he proved to be a worthy title contender. Conceição put up a spirited showing against Stevenson last September in a bid for the WBC and WBO titles. Conceição, who earned the gold medal in his third attempt at Olympic glory, aims to repeat that accomplishment as a pro. Navarrete (38-1, 31 KOs) is a three-division world champion from Mexico and has won 33 consecutive bouts.

Following a recent training session, this is what Conceição had to say:

“I have the utmost respect for a great champion like ‘Vaquero’ Navarrete. He is a good person and a tremendous fighter, and I am sure that we will have a great battle. He has something that is the thing I want most in my professional life. I’m not coming to play. I’m coming for his title. Navarrete, I’m very sorry.”

“I won my gold medal in my third Olympic Games. Now, I will win my world title in my third opportunity. I will take his title to Brazil, and it will be a bigger national celebration than when I won Olympic gold in Rio 2016. I will join the select group of Olympic champions to win a world title as a professional.”

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 6, 2023) —Tickets for the special world title doubleheader headlined by the vacant WBC lightweight world title showdown between Shakur Stevenson and Edwin De Los Santos — Thursday, Nov. 16 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas — ARE ON SALE NOW. 
 
In the world championship co-feature, Mexico’s Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete defends his WBO junior lightweight strap against Brazilian two-time world title challenger Robson Conceição.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Sampson Boxing, tickets can be purchased at AXS.com.
 
This world title twofer — broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT — kicks off the highly anticipated race week in Las Vegas. 
 
Undercard action includes Brian Norman Jr. (24-0, 19 KOs) against Quinton Randall (13-0-1, 3 KOs) in a 10-round battle of unbeaten welterweights, U.S. Olympian Troy Isley (10-0, 4 KOs) versus noted spoiler Vladimir Hernandez (14-5, 6 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight clash, Floyd Diaz (9-0, 3 KOs) fighting Max Ornelas (15-1-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-rounder at bantamweight, and lightweight sensation Emiliano Fernando Vargas (7-0, 6 KOs) returning in a six-rounder at lightweight against Chilean veteran Cristian Olivares (10-0, 5 KOs).

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 4, 2023) — Undefeated prospect Emiliano Fernando Vargas is set to return in a six-round special attraction on Thursday, Nov. 16, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The 19-year-old Vargas, the son of former junior middleweight world champion Fernando Vargas, will make his sixth appearance of the year in a lightweight fight against fellow unbeaten Cristian Olivares. Vargas-Olivares and the rest of the undercard will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+.

The ESPN-televised doubleheader (10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT) is headlined by the vacant WBC lightweight world title showdown between Shakur Stevenson and Edwin De Los Santos and the WBO junior lightweight world title battle between Emanuel Navarrete and Robson Conceição.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Sampson Boxing, tickets go on sale Friday, Oct. 6 at 12 p.m. PT via AXS.com.

Vargas (7-0, 6 KOs) made his pro debut last May and has racked up six victories after signing with Top Rank later that year. After decisioning Francisco Duque in February, “El General” secured three consecutive second-round stoppage wins, including a body shot knockout against Rafael Jasso in May at MGM Grand Garden Arena. In his last fight, he obliterated Alejandro Guardado via third-round TKO. Olivares (10-0, 5 KOs) heads into his stiffest challenge following a unanimous decision victory against Franco Facundo Huanque in January.

Vargas said, “Las Vegas is my hometown, and I can’t wait to fight on such a loaded card. This is going to be a huge sports week in Las Vegas, and I am honored to be part of it. I want to be Prospect of the Year, and I’m going to make a statement on November 16.”

LAS VEGAS (Sept. 27, 2023) — After being ghosted by multiple prospective opponents, boxing’s pound-for-pound prince finally found a willing foe.

Shakur Stevenson will attempt to become a three-weight world champion when he takes on Dominican puncher Edwin De Los Santos for the vacant WBC lightweight world title Thursday, Nov. 16 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

In the world championship co-feature, Mexico’s Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete defends his WBO junior lightweight strap against Brazilian two-time world title challenger Robson Conceição.

This world title twofer — broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT — kicks off the highly anticipated race week in Las Vegas. 

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Sampson Boxing, tickets go on sale Friday, Oct. 6 at 12 p.m. PT via AXS.com.

“This is a huge week for Las Vegas and a tremendous platform for Shakur Stevenson to show, once again, why he is well on his way to reigning as the sport’s pound-for-pound king,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Many fighters turned down the opportunity, but Edwin De Los Santos eagerly accepted. Emanuel Navarrete and Robson Conceição fighting for supremacy at 130 pounds adds to a spectacular card that is loaded from top to bottom.”

Stevenson (20-0, 10 KOs), from Newark, New Jersey, won titles in two divisions in his first five years in the paid ranks. After earning a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics, he debuted as pro in 2017 and compiled a 12-0 record before toppling Joet Gonzalez to win the vacant WBO featherweight world championship in October 2019. Two years later, he captured the WBO junior lightweight title with a 10th-round TKO over Jamel Herring before adding the WBC strap to his collection with a 12-round decision over Oscar Valdez in April 2022. The 26-year-old southpaw defeated Conceição last September before moving up to lightweight and scoring a sixth-round stoppage win over Japanese contender Shuichiro Yoshino in April. 

Stevenson said, “Edwin De Los Santos is a good fighter and he’s going to come to fight. I give him credit for actually taking this fight when so many other so-called ‘fighters’ ran from it. I’m the biggest boogeyman in boxing, and on November 16, the world will see why when I put on another great performance for the fans. Come out to T-Mobile Arena or tune in to ESPN and watch me become a three-division world champion.”

De Los Santos (16-1, 14 KOs) is a hard-hitting southpaw from the Dominican Republic. He debuted in 2018 and notched his first 13 victories in his home country. In his U.S. debut, he suffered a razor-thin split decision loss to William Foster III. He hasn’t lost a fight since. In 2022, he took two unbeaten records, knocking out Luis Acosta with a left hand in the second round and dropping Jose Valenzuela twice before stopping him in round three. In his last fight, De Los Santos dominated Joseph Adorno over 10 rounds in July. This will be De Los Santos’ first shot at a world title.

De Los Santos said, “I want to thank Top Rank, the WBC, ESPN and my promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz, for this opportunity to put on a great fight and win my first world championship. I am a proud Dominican warrior who fights for my people! Shakira, I’m going to kick your ass.”

Navarrete (38-1, 31 KOs) captured his first world title by defeating Isaac Dogboe for the WBO junior featherweight crown in December 2018. He made five defenses before moving up to featherweight, where he beat Ruben Villa for the vacant WBO title in October 2020. The 28-year-old defended his belt three times before moving up to 130 pounds. In February, Navarrete became a three-division champion by defeating Liam Wilson via ninth-round TKO for the WBO junior lightweight world title. He solidified his dominance at 130 pounds with an emphatic 12-round decision win against Valdez in August. Navarrete looks to make the second defense of his strap as the possibility of a title opportunity in a fourth weight division emerges on the horizon.

Navarrete said, “I am very happy to be able to defend my title again in 2023. My motivation is to continue achieving great victories for Mexican boxing and to bring glory to this beautiful nation. Conceição is a complicated opponent, but I want to be the best 130-pounder in the world, and for that I must face the best. I have never shied away from any rival. Whoever they put in front of me, ‘Vaquero’ Navarrete will always be ready to battle.”

Conceição (17-2, 8 KOs) made history as Brazil’s first Olympic boxing gold medalist, turning pro under the Top Rank banner less than three months after the 2016 Rio Games. In September 2021, he earned his first shot at a world title against Valdez, who was then the unbeaten WBC champ at junior lightweight. Though losing a close points verdict, he proved himself as a worthy title contender. Less than five months later, he traveled to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and upset the previously unbeaten Xavier Martinez over 10 rounds. Conceição then had his second opportunity at a world title, an unsuccessful but valiant effort against Stevenson last September. Conceição will now get a third opportunity to call himself a world champion in the pro ranks.

“This is great opportunity in front of a great champion. I needed three Olympics Games to finally capture gold and become Olympic champ, and it looks like history is repeating itself. On November 16, I will fight to the end, and I will not miss this opportunity to become a world champion and once again bring gold to Brazil.”

The ESPN+-streamed undercard will be highlighted by a battle between unbeaten welterweights as well as a host of emerging prospects. 

Undefeated standouts Brian Norman Jr. (24-0, 19 KOs) and Quinton Randall (13-0-1, 3 KOs) will collide in a 10-round welterweight battle. Norman has boxing in his blood. His father, Brian Norman Sr., was a light heavyweight contender in a career spanning 30 bouts. The younger Norman is on the path to contender status as well, having bested Rodrigo Coria in January and Jesus Campos in May. Randall tallied a sixth-round TKO victory against Terry Chatwood in June and an eight-round decision versus Willie Jones in July.

In an eight-round junior featherweight duel between two of Las Vegas’ top prospects, Floyd “Cashflow” Diaz (9-0, 3 KOs) and Max Ornelas (15-1-1, 5 KOs) will battle for intra-city bragging rights. Diaz returns after beating Luis Fernando Saavedra on the Devin Haney-Vasiliy Lomachenko undercard in May, while Ornelas is coming off a highly controversial split decision loss against Hector Valdez last October. 

U.S. Olympian Troy Isley (10-0, 4 KOs) steps up in class in an eight-round middleweight fight against Mexico’s Vladimir Hernandez (14-5, 6 KOs). The 25-year-old had an impressive 2022 in which he scored five victories. He heads into the biggest fight of his career after one-sided wins over Roy Barringer in April and Antonio Todd in July. Hernandez holds wins over Mexican action star Alfredo Angulo and former unified world champion Julian Williams. In August, he handed touted prospect Lorenzo Simpson his first pro defeat.

19-year-old lightweight phenom Abdullah Mason (10-0, 8 KOs) will make his fifth appearance of 2023 in a six-round fight against Texas’ Jose Cardenas (7-1, 5 KOs). Mason, from Cleveland, Ohio, is 4-0 with three knockouts this year.

Junior lightweight contender and Las Vegas native Andres Cortes (20-0, 11 KOs) takes on Nicaragua’s Freddy Fonseca (30-6-1, 20 KOs) in a 10-round tilt. Cortes was last seen notching his best victory to date, a seventh-round stoppage win over Xavier Martinez in July.

Kazakh Olympian Ablaikhan Zhussupov (4-0, 3 KOs) returns in a welterweight clash scheduled for eight rounds versus Mark Dawson (11-1-1, 4 KOs).

Shakur Stevenson lost his WBO/WBC Junior Lightweight titles on Thursday when he failed to make weight for his title defense against Robson Conceicao, but was able to pound out a 12-round unanimous decision at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ.

In round four, Stevenson dropped Conceicao with a straight left hand.

Stevenson of Newark won by scores of 117-109, 118-108 and 117-109 and is now 19-0. Conceicao of Brazil is 17-2.

Davis Stops Tienda in 5

Keyshawn Davis remained undefeated with a fifth round stoppage of Omar Tienda in an eight-round lightweight bout.

In round five, Davis dropped Tienda with a step-back right hand. With Tienda hurt, Davis landed a vicious flurry that was highlighted by a hard left hand and the fight was stopped at 1:38.

Davis, of Roanoke, VA is 6-0 with five knockouts. Tienda of Guadalupe, MEX is 25-6.

Bruce Carrington remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Jose Argel in a featherweight bout.

Carrington, 126.6 lbs of Brooklyn, NY won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 5-0. Argel, 126.8 lbs id Iquiquem CHL is 9-5.

Pablo Valdez remained undefeated with a fourth round stoppage over Noe Alejandro Lopez in a six-round junior middleweight bout.

In round three, Valdez dropped Lopez with a body shot.

In round four, it was a right to the head that put Lopez down. Later in the round , Valdez dropped Lopez with a left to the river, and the bout was stopped at 2:45.

Valdez, 153.6 ls of New York, NY is 7-0 with six knockouts. Lopez, 152.2 lbs of Jaliso, MEX is 11-6-1

Jahi Tucker remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Jose Luis Sanchez in a welterweight bout.

Tucker, 147.8 lbs of Deer Park, NY won by scores of 80-72 twice and 79-73 and is now 9-0. Sanchez, 148.2 lbs of Albuquerque, NM is 11-3-1.

Misael Lopez won an eight-round unanimous decision over Orlando Gonzalez in a featherweight fight.

Lopez, 126.2 lbs of Agua Prieta, MEX won by scores of 79-73, 78-74 and 77-75 and is now 14-1. Gonzalez, 127 lbs of Aguadilla, PR is 18-2.

Floyd Diaz remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Juan Hernandez in a junior featherweight bout.

In round three, Diaz landed a perfect counter right to the side of the head the sent Hernandez to the canvas.

Diaz, 122.8 lbs of Bronx, NY won by scores of 59-54 and 58-55 twice to go to 7-0. Hernandez, 123 lbs of Ledo, MEX is 2-2-1.

Antonie Cobb and Jaylan Phillips fought to a four-round split draw in a welterweight bout.

Cobb won a card 40-36, Phillips 39-37 and 38-38.

Cobb, 144 lbs of Chicago is 1-0-2. Phillips of, 141.8 lbs of Elmo, FL is 1-2-2.

NEWARK, N.J. (Sept. 21, 2022) — Shakur Stevenson is two days away from the ultimate homecoming. The WBC/WBO/Ring Magazine junior lightweight king will defend his belts Friday evening against Robson Conceição (17-1, 8 KOs) at Prudential Center. Stevenson, a 2016 Olympic silver medalist, is a Newark native who is fighting at home as a world champion for the first time.

Before Stevenson and Conceição took the mic, the Mayor’s Office of the City of Newark presented Stevenson (18-0, 9 KOs) with a proclamation declaring September 21, 2022, as Shakur Stevenson Day in the city. That was followed up by special plaque from Quitman Street School students, Stevenson attended Quitman Street for elementary school, and the building sits less than a mile from Prudential Center.

In the eight-round lightweight co-feature, U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis (5-0, 4 KOs) steps up in class against Omar Tienda (25-5, 18 KOs).At Wednesday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say. 

Shakur Stevenson

“Honestly, I’m just ready to fight. I’m not really focused on the pressure. I don’t care about all that. I’m really focused on putting in the work on Friday night. I’m just ready to fight at the end of the day. All I can think about is fighting and performing. That’s everything that’s on my mind.”

“He’s a good fighter. But I think he lost against Valdez. If you left it in the judges’ hands, then you lost. I fought Valdez, and I beat the s*** out of him. I don’t have any excuses. He’s talking about having COVID or something before his last fight. All I hear are excuses. I’m ready to fight. Tell him to not have any excuses on Friday night. I’m ready to beat him up.”

“I never leave it in the hands of the judges. I go in there and take everything that I want.”

Robson Conceição

“It was very touching for me to be welcomed by my community here. Yes, I understand that Shakur is a native, but I also feel right at home here.”

“I’m very motivated. I’ve trained all my life for this moment. The world was able to see that I was better than Oscar Valdez. I should have won. So, he’s not really defending two titles because one should have been mine. I’m a champion without a crown, and I’m ready for Friday night.”

“Shakur is someone that I really respect. He’s a great athlete. I can tell that he’s young, probably overly excited and speaks a little too much. This coming Friday, there will only be one champ, and that champ is me.”

Bob Arum

“This is what it’s all about. Shakur and Robson had their first professional fights with Top Rank. Now, they’re fighting for a world title on the big stage with millions of people watching on television and throughout the world. You saw previously all these young men who are fighting on the undercard. They will soon take their place on these kinds of stages, fighting on main events. This is how boxing should be. This is why I’m still around doing it at the age of 90.”

Keyshawn Davis

“Keyshawn is going to be Keyshawn and he’s going to have fun in there. The talent that Shakur and I have is extraordinary. We both get to show our talent back to back. Just like I said last time in Las Vegas when I fought alongside him, the fans are going to be the winners at the end of the night. And that’s definitely what happened. We’re definitely looking forward to just giving the fans what they came out and paid for.”

“Is he my toughest opponent yet? I don’t know. I’m going to wait and see. I’m hoping that it’s a great fight for me so that I can keep learning and developing. I’m more than prepared for this fight both mentally and physically.”

Omar Tienda

“I’m happy to be in the co-feature of an event of his caliber. I’m excited and happy to be able to come here and do my job. What do we bring that may be different? Well, obviously experience, hard work and strength. We will also bring big surprises for the entire night.”

“You all know why I have ‘The Heroe’ as my nickname. I worked 13 years in emergency rescue, doing different kinds of rescues internationally. Not only in 2008, but in 2010, 2014 and the last one in 2016. They have been very important rescues in which lives are at risk, where we know that we have to go in there and work and where we don’t know if we’ll be returning to see our families.”

“So, for me, this is about working, enjoyment and happiness. We’ve come to score the upset and the name of ‘The Heroe’ will ring once more.”

Bruce Carrington

“Being on Top Rank boxing is the best move that I’ve ever made. I’m happy to be a part of this team. The sky is the limit, and I’m ready to continue proving myself. I just want to step into the ring and showcase my talent so that everybody can see what I’m capable of doing. Top Rank is the place to be for you to be able to showcase that.”

Jahi Tucker

“I just want to thank God for the opportunity to be here. This is a testament to all the hard work we’ve done, and this Friday we’re going to show all the hard work. This means the world to me.”

Friday, September 23

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

Shakur Stevenson vs. Robson Conceição, 12 rounds, Stevenson’s WBC/WBO/Ring Magazine Junior Lightweight World Titles

Keyshawn Davis vs. Omar Tienda, 8 rounds, lightweight

ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT)

Andy Vences vs. Henry Lebron, 8 rounds, junior lightweight

Pablo Valdez vs. Noe Alejandro Lopez, 6 rounds, welterweight
 
Jahi Tucker vs. Jose Luis Sanchez, 8 rounds, welterweight
 
Orlando Gonzalez vs. Misael Lopez, 8 rounds, featherweight
 
Floyd Diaz vs. Juan Hernandez Martinez, 6 rounds, junior featherweight
 
Antoine Cobb vs. Jaylan Phillips, 4 rounds, welterweight

NEWARK, N.J. (Sept. 20, 2022) — WBC/WBO/Ring Magazine junior lightweight world champion Shakur Stevenson has never fought at home as a world champion. The six letters on the front of his trunks — Newark — represents his past and immediate future.

Stevenson (18-0, 9 KOs), a 2016 Olympic silver medalist, will defend his belts against Brazilian Olympic gold medalist Robson Conceição (17-1, 8 KOs) on Friday evening at Prudential Center. He has fought at Prudential Center once before. In July 2019, he stopped Alberto Guevara in his last fight before winning the WBO featherweight world title that October.

A world championship homecoming, though, feels a little different. Stevenson kicked off fight week Tuesday afternoon at Boylan Street Recreation Center, where he met several dozen local children and was greeted by Councilwoman LaMonica McIver and other politicians from Newark and the surrounding areas. Stevenson trained at Boylan as a youngster and always makes a point to return to his roots.

Earlier that day, Conceição received a hero’s welcome at Mantena Global Care, a Newark-based nonprofit that serves the Latino community in the city. Newark’s Ironbound neighborhood is home to one of the nation’s largest Brazilian populations. Many local dignitaries, including East Ward Council Member Michael J. Silva, were on hand to support Conceição.

“I knew that Newark had a large Brazilian population, but I am humbled by the reception I have received today,” Conceição said. “I fight for my country, and I will go out there Friday night to win these titles for my people.”

Friday, September 23

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

Shakur Stevenson vs. Robson Conceição, 12 rounds, Stevenson’s WBC/WBO/Ring Magazine Junior Lightweight World Titles

Keyshawn Davis vs. Omar Tienda, 8 rounds, lightweight
 

ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT)

Andy Vences vs. Henry Lebron, 8 rounds, junior lightweight

Pablo Valdez vs. Noe Alejandro Lopez, 6 rounds, welterweight
 
Jahi Tucker vs. Jose Luis Sanchez, 8 rounds, welterweight
 
Orlando Gonzalez vs. Misael Lopez, 8 rounds, featherweight
 
Floyd Diaz vs. TBA, 6 rounds, junior featherweight
 
Antoine Cobb vs. Jaylan Phillips, 4 rounds, welterweight