PRE-SALE BEGINS TOMORROW AT 10 AM PT, TICKETS ON SALE THURSDAY, FOR STAR-STUDDED EVENT TOPPED BY KEITH THURMAN VS. TIM TSZYU & ROLANDO ROMERO VS. ISAAC CRUZ
LAS VEGAS – January 30, 2024 – Pre-sale tickets will be available beginning tomorrow at 10 a.m. PT for the stacked inaugural four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video topped by two-time world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman dueling rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu in the main event plus 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meeting in the co-main event on Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
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Pre-sale tickets are available tomorrow, Wednesday, January 31 from 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com by using the code: PBC
Public on-sale begins Thursday, February 1 at 10 a.m. PT with tickets available through AXS.com.
The pay-per-view will also see Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defend his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus all-action super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will meet fast-charging contender Serhii Bohachuk in the pay-per-view opener.
The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.
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For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #ThurmanTszyu and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions
STACKED NIGHT OF STAR-STUDDED SHOWDOWNS HIGHLIGHT PBC PAY-PER-VIEW AVAILABLE ON PRIME VIDEO SATURDAY, MARCH 30 FROM T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS
LAS VEGAS – January 25, 2024 – A pair of all-action, high-stakes showdowns will top a stacked four-fight pay-per-view event as two-time world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman duels rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu in the main event while 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meet in the co-main event on Saturday, March 30 in the inaugural PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The card marks the debut event for PBC Pay-Per-View available through Prime Video since the parties announced a landmark, multiyear rights agreement in December. In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.
The pay-per-view will also see Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defend his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus all-action super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will meet streaking contender Serhii Bohachuk in the pay-per-view opener.
*Ticketing information to be announced shortly. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.
“This first show with PBC on Prime Video is jam-packed with fan-friendly matchups featuring stars who are established as the best of their generation and new stars who are looking to make a claim to lead the next generation of champions,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Keith Thurman vs. Tim Tszyu gives each fighter a chance to debut 2024 with a statement, while ‘Rolly’ Romero and ‘Pitbull’ Cruz can send their ascending stock skyrocketing by emerging victorious. With two more clashes rounding out the pay-per-view, this lines up as another night from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas that you’ll want to stay glued to your seat for.”
“This is an historic event and puts the Tszyu name right back at the pinnacle of boxing where it belongs,” said George Rose, CEO of No Limit Boxing. “Tim only wanted the big names, legacy fights, and Keith Thurman is exactly that. It doesn’t end well for Thurman though as the world is going to realize Tim Tszyu is about to take over the sport. Thank you Premier Boxing Champions, TGB Promotions and Prime Video for what is going to be an incredible night of boxing.”
*KEITH THURMAN VS. TIM TSZYU*
The main event will see the former unified world champion Thurman, a long-time stalwart at welterweight, take his first crack at the super welterweight division as he faces the undefeated reigning WBO 154-pound World Champion Tszyu in a 12-round non-title showdown.
Clearwater, Florida’s Thurman (30-1, 22 KOs) earned his “One Time” moniker by talking the talk and delivering with highlight-reel KOs. He has assembled one of the most impressive resumes among the top welterweights of this generation, having defeated former champions Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia and Robert Guerrero. That showdown with Garcia saw him become a unified world champion in a rare unification bout between undefeated welterweight world champions. Thurman’s only blemish came in a 2019 Fight of the Year against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, with Thurman ending up on the wrong side of a narrow split-decision. Most recently, Thurman bested former world champion and current highly ranked welterweight Mario Barrios by unanimous decision in February 2022.
“I’m back in action and I’m happy to be a part of this first event with PBC on Prime Video,” said Thurman. “Tszyu stands out as an exceptional fighter, and I’ve always held admiration for his performances. His distinctive style provides the perfect stage for me to exhibit the relentless dedication I’ve poured into training, refining my skills, and fortifying my mental game. This fight promises a spectacular showdown between two of the most electrifying fighters in the sport, an event that demands attention. Good things come to those that wait. Them days are over, bright lights and action are up ahead. Let’s shake up the world of boxing one more time on Prime Video.”
The son of International Boxing Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu, the 29-year-old Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs) comes off a red-hot 2023 campaign that saw him elevated to world champion at 154-pounds while defeating former world champion Tony Harrison, top contender Brian Mendoza and former title challenger Carlos Ocampo. A native of Sydney, Australia, Tszyu made his U.S debut against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in March 2022, earning a unanimous decision. Tszyu grew up playing soccer, but soon gravitated toward boxing. The decision led to him following in the legendary footsteps of his father, Kostya, who was an undisputed 140-pound champion.
“I’ve been ready and waiting to headline a historic event like this in the U.S. for a very long time and it’s an honor that I don’t take lightly,” said Tszyu. “My father did it, and was at the top of the world for a decade, now it’s my turn. Thurman is a great fight, he’s tricky, tough and he’s mixed it with the very best the sport has seen. This is a new era now. It’s the Tszyu era. On March 30, everyone who tunes into this pay-per-view is going to see for themselves.”
*ROLANDO ROMERO VS. ISAAC CRUZ*
The WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Romero will make the first defense of his world title in a 12-round matchup against the top lightweight contender Cruz, who will look to debut at 140-pounds with a championship-winning performance in the night’s co-main event.
Part of the Mayweather Promotions stable, Romero (15-1, 13 KOs) is known for his brash talk that he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him a must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. The 28-year-old rose to the ranks of world champion in his last outing, stopping Ismael Barroso in round nine to win the title in May. It was Romero’s first return to the ring since a May 2022 defeat against three-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, the Las Vegas resident Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez.
“This is gonna be Rolly versus the Chihuahua in the ring on March 30,” said Romero. “I’m gonna stay world champ and be the first superstar on Prime Video. Just make sure you buy your tickets or tune in on pay-per-view, don’t miss this one.”
One of the most exciting fighters in boxing, the 25-year-old Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) has racked up three consecutive victories since dropping a competitive and entertaining decision against undefeated superstar Gervonta Davis in December 2021. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October before adding dominant decisions over Francisco Vargas and Jose Matias Romero. After stopping former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in April 2022 and veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez in September 2022, Cruz returned this past July to turn away the previously unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera by decision.
“I’m very happy and extremely motivated to have this opportunity to fight for the world title,” said Cruz. “I’ve worked extremely hard to earn this shot. I’ve tried to fight other big names, but ‘Rolly’ was the only one to step up and accept the challenge. He’s got power and courage, and he comes to knock you out. That’s going to make this a great fight on March 30. I’m thankful to my promoter Manny Pacquiao and my whole team for helping secure this fight for me. I will leave the ring as world champion on March 30.”
*ERISLANDY LARA VS. MICHAEL ZERAFA*
Unbeaten in two fights at middleweight, Lara will defend his WBA Middleweight World Championship against the WBA’s top-rated mandatory challenger Zerafa in a 12-round attraction on the pay-per-view lineup.
Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs) was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a 2018 title unification match that earned “Fight of the Year” from the BWAA. Lara returned from that fight and battled former 154-pound world titleholder Brian Castaño to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. Lara most recently moved up to middleweight, capturing his WBA title with a first round knockout of Thomas LaManna in May 2021, before KO’ing Gary O’Sullivan in May 2022. Lara faced a slew of the top 154-pounders in the sport, including Canelo Alvarez, ahead of his middleweight debut.
“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring and defending my title, especially on this first event with PBC on Prime Video,” said Lara. “I feel like I’m the modern day Bernard Hopkins and that I can keep doing this for years. I know that Zerafa has been waiting patiently for this opportunity, so he’s going to be hungry on fight night. But he’s going to realize that he’s now on the world class level facing the best fighter in the division. It’s an honor to be on this great card that’s going to be action packed from start to finish.”
Melbourne, Australia’s Zerafa (31-4, 19 KOs) is long established as one of his country’s top contenders and has won four-straight to earn the title fight on March 30. Zerafa has split a pair of matchups against former champion and Australian rival Jeff Horn in addition to a first round knockout of longtime contender Anthony Mundine. The 31-year-old previously fought stateside in 2015, as he dropped a contest to former middleweight champion Peter Quillin. The veteran has also challenged former champion Kell Brook and defeated previously unbeaten fighters Danilo Creati and Isaac Hardman in his last two fights.
“This is long overdue ever since I became the mandatory,” said Zerafa. “I’m very thankful to everyone who made this fight happen. Come fight night, the world will see why I deserve this opportunity and Australia will have a new world champion.”
*SEBASTIAN FUNDORA VS. SERHII BOHACHUK*
Already established as a must-see attraction, Fundora will return to face fellow highly ranked super welterweight Bohachuk in a 12-round fight for the vacant Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title to kick off the pay-per-view telecast.
Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs) rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division with a fan-friendly style and bruising toughness in the ring. His unbeaten streak came to an end in his last outing, as he got caught and was defeated by Brian Mendoza in April of last year. At nearly 6-foot-6, the 26-year-old southpaw from Coachella, Calif., towers over his opponents, but has displayed an appetite for toe-to-toe combat from short range. Fundora showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in an instant 2022 Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. Fundora represents a boxing family, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela.
“Training camp is going great and I’ve been working hard to get ready for this fight,” said Fundora. “I train 100% for every fight, so it’s been getting back to work as usual for me. I know I’ll win because my objective is still the same as before, to become world champion in the super welterweight division.”
A 28-year-old from Ukraine, Bohachuk (23-1, 23 KOs) now resides in Los Angeles, where he’s fought out of since turning pro. The 28-year-old has won five-straight outings, including 2023 stoppages of Nathaniel Gallimore and Patrick Allotey. This run has come after a defeat to Brandon Adams in March 2021 and has seen him rise back up the 154-pound rankings. He won his first 18 fights after turning pro in 2017 following an extensive amateur career.
“I can’t wait for this opportunity to fight for the title,” said Bohachuk. “I’ve worked my entire career for the chance to reach my dream in this sport. I will give everything to win this fight, because I’m not just fighting for myself, but also for my war-torn country of Ukraine.”
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For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #ThurmanTszyu and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions
WBA calls for a Romero-Davies bidding
The World Boxing Association (WBA) Championships Committee has called for a Purse bid to grant the promotional rights of super lightweight world title fight between champion Rolando Romero and challenger Ohara Davies on July 24, in Panama City, Panama.
Rolly Romero Gets Controversial Stoppage over Barroso
Rolando Romero won the WBA Super Lightweight Title with a controversial ninth round stoppage over late-replacement Ismael Barroso at The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.
In round three, Barroso landed a straight left that sent Romero into the ropes and his gloved touched the canvas for a knockdown.
In round nine, Romero landed a right that staggered Barroso and then put him down with a cuffing right. Later in the round, the two were exchanging in the corner, and referee Tony Weeks for reasons beyond comprehension, stopped the fight at 2:41.
Romero, 139.5 lbs of Las Vegas is now 15-1 with 13 knockouts. Barroso, 139.5 lbs of Miami was a later replacement for reigning champion Alberto Puello, is now 24-4-2.
Puello failed a PED test several weeks ago.
“I’ll be honest, he’s a warrior and he should have been allowed to continue,” said Romero, who improved to 15-1 with 13 KOs and became the 89th fighter to perform on SHOBOX: The New Generation to go onto capture a world title. “He wanted to keep going and I wanted him to keep going as well.”
“The first punch was when I had him hurt to begin with,” Romero said. “It was right on the nose, it was a little clip.”
“I think it was an injustice to stop the fight,” said Barroso, a late replacement after Alberto Puello,who previously held the WBA 140-pound title, had been stripped of his title because of a failed VADA test. “I was landing the better shots. It was a push on the first knockdown. It wasn’t a big blow or anything. The referee just stopped the fight, and he didn’t say anything. You can see it clearly. I’m the one who’s hitting him. There was nothing clear that he hit me with. I don’t understand why they stopped the fight.”
“I boxed the entire time,” said Romero, who became the second Las Vegas native to win a world title along with Ishe Smith. “I came in a little cold. I got cracked and I got up like a champion and kept going.”
Romero was clear about his future intentions after the fight. “There’s only two fights I want,” he said. “There’s the rematch with Tank Davis. But I think there’s a much bigger option. I want to go after Ryan Garcia. We can do it on Showtime PPV.”
Rances Barthelemy Decisions Omar Juarez
Rances Barthelemy won a 10-round majority decision over Omar Juarez in a junior welterweight bout.
Barthelemy landed 96 of 448 punches. Juarez was 101 of 428.
Barthelemy, 142.5 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 95-95 and is now 30-2-1. Juarez, 142.25 lbs of rownsville, TX is 14-2.
The crowd at The Chelsea rained down boos after the decision was read as many thought that Juarez had done enough to win the fight. “I understand that most of the fans are Mexican here and they were going for Juarez,” Barthelemy said. “But I also had my Cuban fans and they were cheering.”
Barthelemy said he would love nothing more than a rematch with Russell. “I want a rematch even more than a title shot,” he said. “I want that rematch with Gary Antuanne Russell. I want it badly.”
The 23-year-old Juarez had his three-fight winning streak halted. “It is what it is,” he said. “I honestly thought I did enough to win, but all That’s left is keep working hard for next time. My one mistake was not staying on top of him. I should have been more aggressive.”
Sims Jr. Decisions Akhmedov in Thrilling Fight
Kenneth Sims Jr. outlasted former world title challenger Batyr Akhmedov by taking a 12-round majority decision in a junior welterweight Elimination bout.
The two traded hard shots throughout the high-punch count affair. Sims fought that few rounds with a closed right eye.
Sims landed 309 of 832 punches. Akhmedov landed 331 of 933.
Sims, 139.25 lbs of Chicago won by scores of 116-112, 115-113 and 114-114 and is now 20-2-1. Akhmedov, 138.75 lbs of Las Angeles is 9-3.
“This is what I’ve been waiting on for years,” said Sims, who won for the seventh straight fight. “I’m not supposed to be here right now. That’s what they say. Ain’t nobody thought I would be here right now. And I know that I’m the best so at 140 it’s whatever. I’m ready for anyone.”
“I want the winner of the main event. I want that title. That’s it. Whoever wins the main event that’s who I want.”
Akhmedov thought he won the fight after suffering another close loss on the judges’ cards. His previous two losses were also narrow defeats on points. “It’s like every time I don’t stop my opponent it’s like they win,” he said. “It seems like it’s a goal against me. If they reach the 12th round it’s like they already won and they’re already celebrating because the judges give it to them. Look at the punch stats. It’s the third time in a row. I won again. I’m winning rounds, I’m throwing more, I’m hurting him more. He’s surviving seven rounds out of 12.”
Starling Castillo took a hard fought 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Esteuri Suero in a super lightweight fight.
In round nine, Suero was deducted a point for holding. In round 10, Suero was cited for the same infraction.
That was the difference as Castillo won by scores of 95-92 twice and 94-93 and is now 18-1-1. Suero, 139.2 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR os 12-1.
Michael Angeletti stopped Michell Bonquez in round eight of their eight-round bantamweight bout.
In round eight, Angeletti dropped Boxquez when he landed a two rights that was followed by a left. With Bonquez hurt, Angeletti followed up with a hard combination and the fight end the fight was stopped.
Angeletti, 118.2 lbs of Spring, TX 8-0 with seven Bonquez, 118.8 lbs of Fort Lauderdale, FL is 20-4.
18 year-old Justin Viloria stopped Pedro Pinillo in round four of their six-round super featherweight bout.
Viloria pounded Pinillo until the bout was stopped in round four.
Viloria, 127.6 lbs of Whittier, CA is the nephew of former world champion Brian Viloria. Viloria is 2-0 with two knockouts. Pinillo, 129.2 lbs of Cali, COL is 5-2.
LIVE BOXING: Rolando Romero vs. Ismael Barroso: Prelims | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Countdown
VIDEO: Rolando Romero vs. Ismael Barroso: Weigh-In | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
ROMERO VS. BARROSO OFFICIAL WEIGHTS AND COMMISSION OFFICIALS
WBA Super Lightweight World Championship – 12 Rounds
Rolando Romero – 139.4 lbs.
Ismael Barroso – 139.4 lbs.
Referee: Tony Weeks; Judges: Tim Cheatham (Nev.), David Sutherland (Okla.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)
Super Lightweight Bout – 10 Rounds
Rances Barthelemy – 142.6 lbs.
Omar Juarez – 142.2 lbs.
Note: Contracted weight is 143 pounds
Referee: Thomas Taylor; Judges: Max DeLuca (N.Y.), Patricia Morse Jarman (Nev.), Dave Moretti (Nev.)
WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator – 12 Rounds
Batyr Akhmedov – 138.8 lbs.
Kenneth Sims Jr. – 139.2 lbs.
Referee: Harvey Dock; Judges: Tim Cheatham (Nev.), Chris Migliore (Nev.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)
SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN
Stream Live at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT
On the SHOWTIME SPORTS® YouTube Channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page
Super Lightweight Bout – 10 Rounds
Esteuri Suero – 139.2 lbs.
Starling Castillo – 139.6 lbs.
Referee: Celestino Ruiz; Judges: Eric Cheek (Nev.), Max DeLuca (N.Y.), David Sutherland (Okla.)
Bantamweight Bout – Eight Rounds
Michael Angeletti – 118.2 lbs.
Michell Banquez – 118.8 lbs.
Note: Contracted weight is 119 pounds
Referee: Chris Flores; Judges: Tim Cheatham (Nev.), Patricia Morse Jarman (Nev.), Dave Moretti (Nev.)
Super Featherweight Bout – Six Rounds
Justin Viloria – 127.6 lbs.
Pedro Pinillo – 129.2 lbs.
Referee: Tom Taylor; Judges: Eric Cheek (Nev.), Max DeLuca (N.Y.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)
Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers round out the telecast team – Emmy® award winning reporter Jim Gray, world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr., and boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins, Jr. with Ray Smaltz III producing and Chuck McKean directing. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) with former world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation® commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as the expert analyst.
The SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN show is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, who also serves as an analyst alongside Marquez on SHOBOX.
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ABOUT ROMERO VS. BARROSO
Romero vs. Barroso will see hard-hitting Rolando “Rolly’’ Romero battle No. 1 Contender Ismael Barroso for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight World Title on Saturday, May 13 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two additional super lightweight bouts with former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy dueling the all-action Omar “El Relámpago” Juarez in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event, plus top super lightweight contenders Batyr Akhmedov and Kenneth Sims Jr. meet in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator opening up the telecast.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromoand @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotionsand @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
VIDEO: Rolando Romero vs. Ismael Barroso: Press Conference | SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING
ROLANDO ROMERO VS. ISMAEL BARROSO FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
LAS VEGAS – May 11, 2023 – Hard-hitting contender Rolando “Rolly” Romero and No. 1 contender Ismael Barroso previewed their showdown for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight World Title at the final press conference Thursday before they meet in the SHOWTIME main event this Saturday, May 13 from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The press conference also featured fighters competing on the undercard of the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast. Action beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT will see former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy duel the all-action Omar “El Relámpago” Juarez in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event, and super lightweight contenders Batyr Akhmedov and Kenneth Sims Jr., facing off in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator in the telecast opener.
Barroso stepped in on less than a month’s notice after Alberto Puello, who previously held the WBA 140-pound title that will be fought for on Saturday night, had been dropped from the main event because of a failed VADA test.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas:
ROLANDO ROMERO
“I think Barroso is actually a better fighter than Alberto Puello, because he can actually crack. Any time you’re in a fight with a puncher, you know it’s gonna be difficult.
“I’m not underestimating him. I know he can hit and he’s a little tricky. He throws a good straight left that comes out of nowhere that he’s been getting guys with. So I’m definitely not underestimating him.
“I’m going to make 140-pounds the most popping division in boxing. I see many pay-per-view events and I’m involved in all of them.
“The only thing that I learned from the Gervonta Davis fight is that I need to be patient. Patience is everything in life.
“Everyone can expect to see ‘Rolly’ with the world title around his waist Saturday night. Every fighter that boxes dreams of becoming world champion, so it would be a dream come true.
“All belts mean the same to me. My interim belt meant a lot to me too. I’m just blessed to be in the position to get my hands on another one.
“I do like trash talking, but this isn’t a trash talking fight. I have to respect this man next to me. Someone didn’t want to follow all the rules, so I have to be grateful Barroso is here.
“This is the beginning of the ‘Rolly’ show again. It’s gonna be fireworks.
ISMAEL BARROSO
“I’m churning with the same intensity that I had 10 years ago. You’re going to see that hunger and power in the ring. I’m bringing my best.
“I’m the number one contender and I got the opportunity that I deserve. I know some people thought they were left behind, but that’s not for me to worry about. ‘Rolly’ is here to take advantage of his opportunity, so good for him.
“People who know me, know that I’m a warrior. ‘Rolly’ is a warrior too. So if you’re tuning into this fight on Saturday night, you’re going to see a battle between two fighters who are very eager to become world champion. That means fireworks.
“Winning the title would be another blessing and a great source of happiness. It’s something that I’ve strived for my whole career and it would be the culmination of everything that I’ve trained for my entire life.
“The lesson I’m here to show is that it doesn’t matter how many times you fall down, you have to keep getting up and battling every single moment. Because dreams can come true. Keep striving for whatever you want, no matter how old you are.”
RANCES BARTHELEMY
“I’m well aware that I’m fighting a hungry young lion, but I had a great training camp with my team. We studied him really well and you’re going to see me come out on top on Saturday night.
“The goal is to be able to make history as the first Cuban fighter to win titles in three divisions. That’s what propels me to wake up in the morning and continue chasing this dream I’ve had for years.
“I don’t feel on the decline at all. I feel renewed. I have an outstanding team around me that’s allowed me to reach my peak once again. I feel like I’m more dangerous than ever. I have to prove it on Saturday.
“If you gave me a choice between fighting for a title or a rematch with Gary Antuanne Russell, I think I would take the rematch with Russell.
“Styles make fights and our styles mesh up perfectly. Tune in to this fight because it’s going to be fireworks in the ring.”
OMAR JUAREZ
“I’m ready. I had the best training camp of my career so far. I’m excited to display all my dedication on Saturday night.
“I have experience too, but at the end of the day, we’re both putting it all on the line. We’ll see who’s tougher when the bell rings.
“Everyone is going to see that I’m the hardest worker in the room. It’s been like that ever since I started fighting, and I’m ready to display it on Saturday night.
“At the end of the day, I want to be great. I have a lot of respect for Rances, but he’s just in my way. I have to fight the best in order to be the best. This is a big win that I’m looking forward to getting.
“We’re fighters and we adapt. I’m ready for whatever my opponent brings to the table. No matter what Rances does, I’m going to be ready.
“This is gonna be an action packed fight with two amazing fighters and hard workers. Make sure you tune in, because all of these fights are going to be awesome.”
BATYR AKHMEDOV
“I’m very happy to be back with this fight. It definitely bothers me what happened since my fight against Alberto Puello. Of course, I want to be fighting for the title, but it is what it is. I took this fight one month after that Puello fight, and now we’re here fighting a tough contender.
“This is a tough fight and I’m happy to be here. I have big opportunities in front of me, and it’s up to me to go get them.
“It’s hard to know what will happen, but I do believe the winner of this fight should face the winner of the main event. We’re two top ranked contenders and the winner should be next. All I can control is doing my best to become the mandatory.
“I feel like I’m a two-time world champion already, but I haven’t got the belt. I know the people appreciate my style and what I do in the ring. I know that I’ve earned being in the main event. But now I do believe that I have a tougher fight in front of me and all I can do is prove what I deserve on Saturday.
“I have to do my best to leave no doubt. I’m going to do my best every single round to win as brightly as possible and make sure there are zero doubts.”
KENNETH SIMS JR.
“This fight is super important to me. Everyone here knows that a couple of years ago, I wasn’t in this conversation. I don’t ever want to leave this conversation again. In order for that to happen, I have to take care of business on Saturday.
“I’ve been extremely focused for the last two years. I’m not a young pup anymore. I’ve got more that I’m fighting for. I’m not just fighting for myself. I’m prepared to do whatever I have to do in the ring to get the win and keep my train rolling.
“There have been a lot of things that have changed with me over the last couple of years. Honestly, I didn’t know what I was doing in the first phase of my career. I was just in there and fighting off straight athletic ability. I never applied what I actually know.
“Now I’ve got a great team around me and I’ve learned a lot about myself. Whether it’s nutrition or strength and conditioning, I didn’t really have that in the first phase of my pro career. Now I have a real team around me and it’s paying off.
“When I say I’m ready for whatever, I mean it. No matter what I have to do. If boxing isn’t working, I can fight. I’m not scared of a fight.
“I think Batyr should be world champion right now and I believe that the winner of this fight should get to fight for the title.”
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ABOUT ROMERO VS. BARROSO
Romero vs. Barroso will see hard-hitting Rolando “Rolly’’ Romero battle No. 1 Contender Ismael Barroso for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight World Title on Saturday, May 13 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two additional super lightweight bouts with former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy dueling the all-action Omar “El Relámpago” Juarez in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event, plus top super lightweight contenders Batyr Akhmedov and Kenneth Sims Jr. meet in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator opening up the telecast.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromoand @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotionsand @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
UNDEFEATED PROSPECTS STEP INTO THE RING ON THREE-FIGHT SHOWTIME BOXING® COUNTDOWN SHOW THIS SATURDAY, MAY 13 AT 6:30 PM ET/3:30 PM PT
LAS VEGAS – May 11, 2023 – Three matchups featuring undefeated fighters looking to keep perfect records intact will highlight the SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN live streaming presentation this Saturday, May 13 from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
Action live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page will begin at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT and is topped by unbeaten super lightweight Esteuri “El Puma” Suero dueling Starling Castillo in a 10-round attraction. Also featured is sensational bantamweight Michael Angeletti in an eight-round bout against Michell Banquez, while super featherweight Justin Viloria will take on Pedro Pinillo in a six-round fight. The live stream is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell.
These fights precede a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader headlined by top contenders Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Ismael Barroso facing off for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight World Championship. That telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT will also see former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy dueling the all-action Omar “El Relámpago” Juarez in the co-main event, plus super lightweight contenders Batyr Akhmedov and Kenneth Sims Jr. meet in a WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator opening up the telecast.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.
Representing Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Suero (12-0, 9 KOs) will make his U.S. debut on Saturday night, having turned pro in 2019 with a first-round knockout over Elieser Torres. The 23-year-old jump started his professional record with knockouts in nine of his first 10 fights and by winning 10-round unanimous decisions in each of his last two fights – most recently besting Jose Fajardo Galvez in December. He will be opposed by the 27-year-old Castillo (17-1-1, 13 KOs), who most recently fought fellow unbeaten Kenny de Leon to a draw last October. Also, a native of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Castillo’s only career defeat came via decision against the unbeaten Otar Eranosyan.
A highly skilled technician with blazing speed and surprising power, Angeletti (7-0, 6 KOs) scored the most impressive victory of his young career last time out, as he dominated the previously unbeaten Jeremy Adorno on his way to a fifth-round stoppage last October. Originally from New Orleans and now training in Spring, Texas, Angeletti carries a five-fight knockout streak into Saturday night. He will face the 32-year-old Banquez (20-3, 14 KOs), a native of Venezuela who fights out of Florida. Banquez owns impressive victories over then-unbeaten opponents Prince Patel and Joahnys Argilagos, and most recently dropped decisions to Ramon Cardenas last July and Antonio Vargas in February.
With a large contingent of supporters in attendance, Viloria (1-0, 1 KO) turned pro in April and delighted his fans with a sensational first round knockout over Sirdarious Smith. The 18-year-old from Whittier, California will step up in competition when he faces Colombia’s Pinillo (5-1, 5 KOs) on Saturday. Pinillo turned pro in December 2019 and scored five-straight stoppages before losing a majority decision to Alejandro Nicasio Garcia in April 2022.
The non-televised undercard lineup will feature highly touted twin super bantamweight prospects in six-round fights as Chavez Barrientes (6-0, 5 KOs) meets Juan Centeno (8-7-3, 1 KO), while his twin brother Angel Barrientes (9-1, 6 KOs) battles Sharone Carter (13-6, 3 KOs). Rounding out the card is Washington, D.C. prospect David Whitmire (1-0, 1 KO) in a four-round super welterweight matchup against Texas’ Javier Vargas (3-1, 3 KOs), and the pro debut of super middleweight Yojanler Martinez in a four-round bout taking on California’s Dario Guerrero-Meneses (3-5-1, 1 KO).
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ABOUT ROMERO VS. BARROSO
Romero vs. Barroso will see hard-hitting Rolando “Rolly’’ Romero battle No. 1 Contender Ismael Barroso for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight World Title on Saturday, May 13 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two additional super lightweight bouts with former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy dueling the all-action Omar “El Relámpago” Juarez in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event, plus top super lightweight contenders Batyr Akhmedov and Kenneth Sims Jr. meet in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator opening up the telecast.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromoand @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotionsand @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
HARD-HITTING ROLANDO ROMERO BATTLES NO. 1 CONTENDER ISMAEL BARROSO FOR VACANT WBA 140-POUND WORLD TITLE THIS SATURDAY, MAY 13 HEADLINING SHOWTIME® TRIPLEHEADER FROM THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS IN A PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS EVENT
LAS VEGAS – May 10, 2023 – Hard-hitting Rolando “Rolly’’ Romero will battle No. 1 contender Ismael Barroso for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight World Title this Saturday, May 13 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event. The matchup between come-forward fighters with power in both hands shapes up to be another entertaining title tilt at 140-pounds, a division brimming with talent.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two additional super lightweight bouts with former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy dueling the all-action Omar “El Relámpago” Juarez in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event, and top super lightweight contenders Batyr Akhmedov and Kenneth Sims Jr., facing off in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator in the telecast opener.
Alberto Puello, who previously held the WBA 140-pound title that will be fought for on Saturday night, has been dropped from the main event because of a failed VADA test.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.
Part of the Mayweather Promotions stable, Romero (14-1, 12 KOs) is known for his brash talk that he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. Romero returns to the ring for the first time since a May 2022 defeat against three-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez. The 27-year-old followed that victory up with a pair of impressive knockout triumphs, dominating slick contender Avery Sparrow with a seventh-round stoppage in January 2021 before dropping former title challenger Anthony Yigit three times on his way to another seventh-round stoppage in July 2021.
“It doesn’t matter who I fight on May 13,” said Romero. “I’m a star and I’m gonna shine no matter what. I can’t wait to put on a show in my hometown of Las Vegas and for everyone watching on SHOWTIME. I’m leaving the ring with that belt.”
Barroso (24-3-2, 22 KOs) is a battle-tested veteran seeking to capture a WBA title for the second time in his career. He came up short in his world title quest when he lost to Anthony Crolla for a lightweight championship in 2016. Barroso, who was born in Tigre, Venezuela and now lives in Miami, Fla., has won four consecutive fights – three by knockout – since suffering back-to-back losses in 2018. In his most recent match, he scored a fourth-round knockout victory over Fernando David Saucedo last August to climb into the No. 1 contender spot for the WBA 140-pound title.
“I’m very happy about this opportunity and I’m not going to waste it,” said Barroso. “On May 13 you will see an extremely hungry fighter going all out for the victory. I’m very thankful to my team for getting me this opportunity and for standing by my side throughout everything. On May 13 I’m winning that title!”
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromoand @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotionsand @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
Romero-Barroso fight for WBA Super Lightweight Title
The World Boxing Association declared the Dominican Alberto Puello as 140 lbs. champion in recess, after he tested positive for a banned substance, according to the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA), therefore, the fight between Rolando Romero and Ismael Barroso, will be for the WBA Super Lightweight vacant Championship.
This was approved by a vote of its members by the WBA Championships Committee, which, in turn, indicates that Puello’s recess status is exceptional and a final decision will be made after May 17, 2023, when the boxer attends a hearing with the Nevada Athletic Commission and the Commission makes a decision or a VADA report indicates a negative result of the B test, which is done at the request of the boxer.
The Puello vs. Romero fight was not a mandatory defense, however, and adhering to the WBA C22 rule, the WBA Championships Committee approved Barroso as the Dominican’s replacement for this world championship bout. This rule states that when a champion cannot defend his title for medical, legal or other justifiable reasons, he will be declared inactive and the organization will choose the official title contenders.
Since the bout is scheduled for May 13 and the Nevada hearing will take place 4 days after, the WBA felt the need to adhere to the C22 rule to affect as little as possible the athletes classified at 140 pounds.
For his part, Barroso, mandatory challenger at Super Lightweight, was chosen to face Romero. The winner will face Ohara Davies no later than 120 days after May 13.
In the event that the fight ends in a draw or a “no decision,” the Committee will reconsider the 140-pound case and issue a new ruling pending the outcome of Puello’s hearing with the Nevada Commission and the possibility of opening the B Test.
WBA 140-POUND WORLD CHAMPION ALBERTO PUELLO BATTLES HARD-HITTING ROLANDO ROMERO SATURDAY, MAY 13 HEADLINING SHOWTIME® TRIPLEHEADER FROM THE COSMOPOLITAN OF LAS VEGAS
LAS VEGAS – April 12, 2023 – Undefeated WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto “La Avispa” Puello will make the first defense of his world title when he takes on hard-hitting contender Rolando “Rolly” Romero on Saturday, May 13 live on SHOWTIME from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two additional super lightweight bouts with former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy dueling the all-action Omar “El Relámpago” Juarez in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event, plus top super lightweight contenders Batyr Akhmedov and SHOBOX® alum Kenneth Sims, Jr., meet in a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator opening up the telecast.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.
“Saturday, May 13 in Las Vegas lines up to be a fantastic three-fight card with intriguing matchups in the stacked super lightweight division, topped by WBA 140-pound world champion Alberto Puello defending his belt against the always-exciting ‘Rolly’ Romero,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The former two-division champ Rances Barthelemy and young action fighter Omar Juarez will meet in an intriguing crossroads co-main event clash, while two of the 140-pound division’s toughest contenders, Batyr Akhmedov and Kenneth Sims, Jr., look to put themselves in position to fight for a world title opening the telecast.”
“This is a big opportunity for ‘Rolly’ and there’s no doubt that he’s going to make the most of it,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “He’s focused on preparing to get back in the ring and I know that he’s looking forward to putting on a great show for the fans on May 13.”
A native of San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic, Puello (21-0, 10 KOs) now fights out of Las Vegas under the tutelage of renowned trainer Bob Santos, who also trains Puello’s childhood friend, former WBA 130-Pound World Champion Hector Luis Garcia. The 28-year-old captured his world championship in his most recent fight, earning a hard-fought decision victory over Akhmedov last August on SHOWTIME. Puello leapt up the rankings in July 2019, handing Jonathan Alonso his first career defeat with a unanimous decision victory that earned him an interim title. He was also successful in his U.S. debut in December 2021, as he scored a unanimous decision victory over Veshawn Owens in Owens’ hometown.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity I have to defend my world title on SHOWTIME,” said Puello. “’Rolly’ has fought at the elite level, so I’m looking forward to testing myself and showing why I am the champion. I’m confident in my skills and I’m coming with everything I’ve got. This is going to be one of the best fights of the year, so make sure you tune in.”
Part of the Mayweather Promotions stable, Romero (14-1, 12 KOs) is known for his brash talk that he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. Romero returns to the ring for the first time since a May 2022 defeat against three-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez. The 27-year-old followed that victory up with a pair of impressive knockout triumphs, dominating slick contender Avery Sparrow with a seventh-round stoppage in January 2021 before dropping former title challenger Anthony Yigit three times on his way to another seventh-round stoppage in July 2021.
“I’m excited to become a world champion on May 13,” said Romero. “Everyone knows what I bring to the ring. It’s gonna be an entertaining show. I hope Puello comes in 100%, because I ready to show that I’m an elite fighter in this division.”
A native of Havana, Cuba now fighting out of Las Vegas, Barthelemy (29-2-1, 15 KOs) returns after a defeat to Gary Antuanne Russell last July in which many believed the referee waived off the fight prematurely. A world champion at 130 and 135 pounds, Barthelemy owns notable victories over Argenis Mendez, Antonio DeMarco, Mickey Bey and Denis Shafikov. His only other professional loss came in a 2018 140-pound championship rematch against Kiryl Relikh. Barthelemy comes from a fighting family, as he is the middle brother between the younger Leduan and the older Yan, who won a gold medal at the 2004 Olympics.
“I’m looking forward to putting on a good show against a young, hungry fighter like Omar Juarez,” said Barthelemy. “I want to thank everyone who put me in this position and made this fight happen. At this stage in my career, it’s about building my legacy, and that means getting a knockout on May 13. My hands will be flying when that bell rings.”
The 23-year-old Juarez (14-1, 5 KOs) enters the ring propelled by momentum gained from his efforts inside and outside the ring. He enters the fight on a three-bout winning streak following a June 2021 defeat to All Rivera, including 2022 victories over Ryan Karl in February and Austin Dulay in December. A native of Brownsville, Texas, Juarez has achieved recognition in his community by uplifting the state’s youth through motivational speaking, receiving commendations from the Texas State Senate and the Texas House of Representatives for his altruism.
“This is the biggest fight of my life and I’m grateful to my team for making it happen,” said Juarez. “Rances brings a tremendous amount of experience to the ring, so I know that I have to make the proper adjustments as this fight goes on. I know if I win this fight, big doors will continue to open for me. So believe me when I say that I’m coming to win and win impressively.”
Born in Uzbekistan and now fighting out of Los Angeles, Calif., Akhmedov (9-2, 8 KOs) represented Turkey at the 2016 Olympic Games. The 32-year-old turned pro in 2017 and won his first seven pro fights, with six coming by knockout. Most recently, Akhmedov lost a narrow split-decision to Puello in a vacant 140-pound title fight last August on SHOWTIME, with his only other blemish coming in a 2019 action-fight against Mario Barrios.
“I’m looking forward to my return to the ring this May,” said Akhmedov. “My goal has always been to win a world championship and I have faith in myself. The fans know that I’m always in exciting fights, and this matchup is going to be more of the same.”
The 29-year-old Sims (19-2-1, 7 KOs) is one of the hottest fighters in the 140-pound division and can move one step closer to a world title with a victory on May 13. Representing his native Chicago, Ill., Sims has won six-straight outings dating back to May 2018 including triumphs over then-unbeaten fighters Elvis Rodriguez and Keeshawn Williams in 2021. Most recently, Sims dispatched Rock Myrthil in the fifth-round of their December 2022 showdown.
“I’m really excited about this fight,” said Sims. “This is what I’ve been asking for and will bring the best out in me. I believe that Akhmedov won his last fight and should be champion right now. This is not gonna be an easy task, but I will prove that I belong with the big names in the 140-pound division.”
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #PuelloRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @MayweatherPromo, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @MayweatherPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.
Boxing Star “Rolly” Rolando Romero Confirmed for Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo, During Mexican Independence Day Weekend, Saturday September 17, in Las Vegas

Las Vegas (August 2, 2022) – Boxing Star “Rolly” Rolando Romero has confirmed that he will appear at the Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega trilogy fight between Canelo Alvarez vs Gennady Golovkin, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.
Romero will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Mexican Independence Day weekend.
The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, and Canelo vs. Jacobs. Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo
Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2022
Romero will make his second appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and also have merchandise for sale for fans to enjoy. Boxing enthusiasts will have an opportunity to also take pictures with this unique Boxing Star also known as “Rolly”.
Romero joins Jose Ramírez, David Benavidez, Shawn Porter, Jessie Vargas and Erik Morales as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.
Rolando Romero
Romero is an American professional boxer from Cuban descent who captured the vacant WBA interim title by defeating top contender Dominican Jackson Marinez on August 15, 2020. Romero known for his aggressive knockout style inside the ring and his outspoken charismatic personality outside the ring, has made Romero one of the Top stars in the boxing world. On May 28, 2022, Romero would face his biggest challenge to date against another Top Star Gervonta “Tank” Davis for the WBA “Regular” Title. This mega fight event was headlined on Showtime PPV, at the Barclays Center in New York city. The event was a huge success and although Romero did not win the title, his exciting and solid performance in this fight has made Rolando Romero a household name.
About Box Fan Expo
Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.
Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, David Benavidez, Errol Spence Jr, Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Claressa Shields, Teofimo Lopez, Brandon Rios, Jorge Linares, and many more.
Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.
Throughout the next several weeks leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo
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Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –
To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:
GERVONTA DAVIS’ SPECTACULAR STOPPAGE OF ROLANDO ROMERO TO PREMIERE THIS SATURDAY, JUNE 4 ON SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®

NEW YORK – June 2, 2022 – Gervonta Davis’ sensational stoppage of Rolando Romero last Saturday night in front of a star-studded, sold-out crowd that included celebrities across the entertainment and sporting gamutwill premiere this Saturday, June 4 as part of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING featuring unified WBC and WBO 122-pound World Champion Stephen Fulton Jr. taking on former unified champion Danny Roman live on SHOWTIME® from the Armory in Minneapolis, Minn., in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with the Davis vs. Romero and will also feature WBA Super Middleweight Champion and Minneapolis fan-favorite David Morrell Jr. facing Kalvin Henderson in the co-main event.
Davis’ stunning sixth-round stoppage of Romero in Brooklyn to retain his WBA Lightweight Title was a box office success – the highest-grossing and most-attended combat sports event in the arena’s history, including all mixed martial arts and wrestling events, with 18,970 in attendance for the spectacle on Memorial Day Weekend. The event was also one of the most attended events in arena history for any occasion, ranking in the top-five biggest, representing the return of big-time boxing to the arena.
ALL ACCESS: DAVIS VS. ROMERO Epilogue will also premiere Saturday, June 4 following the conclusion of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. Episode One of the Emmy® Award-winning series premiered on Saturday, May 21 and is currently available to watch on the SHOWTIME SPORTS® YouTube Channel.
Among the glitterati that attended Davis vs. Romero on May 28 were Madonna, comedians Tracy Morgan and Katt Williams, Giants Hall of Famer and Super Bowl XLII Champion Michael Strahan, Carolina Panthers receiver Robbie Anderson, NBA Hall of Famer Tracy McGrady, Yankees relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman; Brooklyn Nets players Nic Claxton, David Duke Jr., and Kessler Edwards, rapper and actor Bow Wow, unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr., lightweight contender Ryan Garcia, and more.
Many other luminaries commented on social media throughout the event, their comments reaching a crescendo following Davis’ one-punch knockout: Kevin Durant, Odell Beckham Jr., Ja Morant, Chad Johnson, Rosie Perez, Lamar Jackson, Robbie Anderson, Charles Woodson, A.J. Green, Karl-Anthony Towns, Kendrick Perkins, Ryan Garcia, Shakur Stevenson, Zab Judah, and more all weighed in.
SHOWTIME SPORTS is in the midst of a torrid six-week stretch of six consecutive telecasts in May and June that started on May 14 with a Fight of the Year candidate between Jermell Charlo and Brian Castaño for the Undisputed 154-pound World Championship . The grudge-match between Davis and Romero followed another scintillating performance by David Benavidez against David Lemieux the week prior. Now, the undefeated and unified world champion Fulton will take on former unified champion Roman this Saturday in another can’t-miss matchup for the fourth-straight week of non-stop action.
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero and #FultonRoman, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing
Rolando “Rolly” Romero Talks Future Fights and Opponents

LAS VEGAS, NV (June 2, 2022) – A few days have passed, and Rolando Romero (14-1, 12 KOs) has reflected on his fight in which he lost to Gervonta “Tank” Davis (27-0, 25 KOs), in front of a record-setting crowd at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
“I lost to the better man that night, I felt was doing a good job backing him up with my jab,” said Romero when reflecting on the fight. “I was winning the fight and I made a mistake and got caught. I will work hard to get back to the top with the goal to become a champion. Much respect to Tank and I wish him well. The Rolly show must go on.”
Romero, who many discounted going into this bout, proved that he is one of the top lightweights in the world, and despite being listed as an underdog by the oddsmakers, never appeared to be outclassed by one of the best fighters in the world until the knockout punch landed.
Romero has made it clear that he is already back in the gym and wants the very best competition that is available. Whether it is Ryan Garcia, Devin Haney, or George Kambosos Jr., Romero is interested in pursuing fights with all the top fighters in the division.
After being a part of such a massive event, it is clear Romero is one of the biggest stars in the division, as well as one of the best fighters in the division, as he eagerly awaits a fight date for later this year for the Rolly show to continue.
“I’ll be ready to get back in the ring as soon as my name is called,” said Romero in closing. “I know I got what it takes to be a world champion, and sooner then later, I will accomplish that goal. I made a name for myself and now I can get those big fights with all the top fighters in the division. Haney, Garcia, Kambosos, I want to fight them all. At some point, I will want my rematch with Tank, but I know I’ll have to work my back to that position.”
LIVE FIGHTS: Gervonta Davis vs. Rolando Romero: Prelims | SHOWTIME PPV Countdown
Gervonta Davis Knocks out Out Romero in 6

BROOKLYN–It took one punch by Gervonta Davis to shut the mouth of Rolando Romero as Davis retained his WBA Lightweight title with a sixth round stoppage of Romero in front of a sold-out Barclays Center of 18,790.
The fight was a tactical first five-plus round with neither man averaging more than 20 punches per round.
Finally in round six, Romero ran right into a perfect left to the face that had him sprawling into the ropes and down the canvas, Romero got to his feet but was unsteady, and referee David Fields stopped the fight at 2:39.
Davis, 133.75 lbs of Baltimore, MD is 27-0 with 25 knockouts. Romero, 134.25 lbs of Las Vegas is 14-1.
Gervonta Davis
“I want to thank God, first for this victory, second I want to thank Al Haymon, Mayweather Promotions, Showtime, we did it again in New York City baby. Thank you New York City. I won my first belt here and it was great to come back to New York City and do it again.
“I was thinking as this interview was coming up and as much as I wanted to be cocky, but I want to thank Rolly. I want to thank his team. We settled it like men inside the ring. I wish him the best in the future.
“I knew it was all about selling the fight. I’m glad we didn’t fight the first time because I was so emotional. But I’m just grateful to be in this position and to be able to come out with the win. He was strong for sure but it was a couple shots that I was getting warmed up and he caught me and I was like, ‘I can’t sit with him just yet.’ I know when to take it to my opponents and when to chill out. There was someone in the crowd and they were telling me to press forward and I was like, not yet. I got to loose him up a little more.
“The crazy thing is that I didn’t even throw it that hard. He just ran into it. He just ran into it. Something like when Pacquiao got caught. I didn’t even throw it that hard and he’s the one who ran into it, when he was talking that it was going to be me.
“I knew that I could get into his head, just from when we weighed in. I knew his goal was to move in front of me (on stage during the weigh in) so when he went in front of me he didn’t realize that the stand was coming to an end so I just tapped him and he fell.
“I’m here baby, whatever they want to do, I’m here. I want to send my condolences to Mr. Russell, he was someone who I came up with in the amateurs. I want to shout out the Russell brothers and send my condolences to them.”
Lara Stops O’Sullivan in eight; Retains Middleweight title
Erislandy Lara retained the WBA Middleweight title with an eighth round stoppage over Gary O’Sullivan.
In round four, Lara dropped O’Sullivan with a straight left.
In round eight, it was another straight left that rocked O’Sullivan and the fight was stopped.
Lara, 159.75 lbs of Guantanamo, CUB is 29-3-3 with 17 knockouts. O’Sullivan, 159 lbs of Cork, IRE is 31-5.
Erislandy Lara
“This new style that I’m demonstrating is for all the boxers to show them how I can fight now, just being able to change up. He was a tough boxer, too.
“I’m a smart boxer, a slick boxer, that’s what I did tonight. I wait until he attacks and then I do what I have to do to win the fight.
“I saw the opening, he was leaving himself open and that’s when the left came in and knocked him down. I saw in the eighth round he didn’t have any more power and that’s when I stepped up and showed my power.
“I want to thank the fans that came to Brooklyn, Al Haymon and Luis De Cubas Jr. for setting up the big fights that I want to have for me. I’m still a force
Ramos Gets Family Revenge; Decisions Santanaria
Jesus Ramos avenged a loss that his uncle Abel had to Luke Santamaria, by winning a 10-round unanimous decision in a super welterweight bout.
Ramos landed 158 of 625 punches; Santamaria was 142 of 560.
Ramos, 153.5 lbs of Casa Grande, AZ won by scores of 98-92 and 97-93 and is now 19-0. Santamaria, 154 lbs of Garden Grove, CA is now 13-3-1.
Jesús Ramos
“Yes of course (it was important to avenge the loss of my uncle). It wasn’t the way we wanted to win, but I think it takes two to tango and tonight I was the one who wanted to fight. I’m not really satisfied. I could have done a lot better but like I said, it takes two to tango and tonight Santamaria didn’t want to fight
“I could have pressed a little more, gone to the body a little more, he was kind of slippery in there, and I didn’t want to risk anything because he would counter so I was trying to stay composed and stay at my distance.
“I’m going to go back and watch the fight and grow. I went 10 rounds again and it’s going to help me mature a lot more.
“I want whoever they want to put in front of me. We’re going to keep going forward and take whatever fight my team thinks is best for me.
“I could improve on cutting off the ring a little and going to the body a little bit more. He was headbutting me and fighting a little dirty in there, so I didn’t want to get too careless.”
Luke Santamaría
“I thought it was closer than that. I thought we got the win. Unfortunately, it didn’t go our way. I moved up in weight. I thought he was going to be stronger than that. I thought we did enough to win the fight.
“The plan was to counter and slip his shots. I thought it was good enough to get the win but what happened happened and we can’t complain.
“We’re going to stay at 147. When you lose you dig a deep hole but we’ve dug ourselves out of the hole before and we’ll do it again. He never hurt me, never felt his power. I was good. I thought he was going to be tough. I’m just as tough as they come.
“The plan was to box him and to get him tired and it was working. I thought it worked.”
Ramirez Decisions Melendez
Eduardo Ramirez won a 10-round majority decision over Luis Melendez in a junior lightweight fight.
Ramirez landed 171 of 555 punches; Melendez was 193 of 659.
Ramirez, 130 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 95-95 and is now 27-2-4.
Eduardo Ramírez
“The first few rounds were even, but after that he only had his jab. I was able to hurt him. He tried to win going backwards and that’s no way to win.
“I want to fight for the world title next. I’m ready for any of the top fighters. I don’t shy away from tough challenges.”
Luis Meléndez
“I felt I won the fight. It’s part of the game. You just have to go back and keep training and just come back better.
“The last scorecard when they said it, I felt I won, without a doubt. My people know I won, the crowd knows I won, it definitely hurts when you travel here and you expect to win and it’s my first pay-per-view. Everybody at home was watching me. It is what it is. I just have to go back to the drawing board and get better. I’m still young. I felt I landed the crisper punches and out-boxed him. He never hurt me. Never.
“It felt great to hear the crowd cheering for me. It’s more of a Gervonta crowd, but they showed me love. It just comes with the territory. The judges didn’t think it was for me this time. It is what it is.”
Luis Arias won a 10-round unanimous decision over Jimmy Williams in a super welterweight fight.
Arias, 155.25 lbs of Boca Raton, FL won by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is now 20-3-1. Williams, 154 lbs of Plainfield, NJ is 18-8-2.
Jalil Hackett remained undefeated by stopping Jose Belloso in round three of their four round welterweight bout.
The time was 2:13 for Hackett, 145 lbs of Washington, DC who is now 4-0 with three knockouts. Belloso, 145.75 lbs of Carson, CA is 4-1.
Adrian Benton remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Jose Antonio Meza in a super lightweight bout.
Benton, 129.4 lbs of Cincinnati, OH won by scores of 59-55 twice and 58-56 and is now 7-0. Meza, 130 lbs of Gomez Pueblo, MEX is 8-7.
Arnold Gonzalez won a six-round split decision over Tracey McGruder in a welterweight contest.
Gonzalez, 146.4 lbs of New York won on two cards 58-56, while McGruder took a card 59-57.
Gonzalez is 10-0. McGruder, 148.4 lbs of Rochester, NY is 6-3.
Cattino Oliver won a four-round unanimous decision over Jahdon Lewis in a super bantamweight fight.
Oliver, 118.2 lbs of Baltimore, MD won by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 twice and is now 2-0. Lewis, 118.2 lbs of North Augusta, SC is 2-2.
Julica Pavilus won a six-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Mia Ellis in a lightweight bout.
In round six, Pavilus dropped Ellis with a left hook.
Pavilius, 133.2 lbs of Port-a-Prince, HAI won by scores of 59-54, 58-55 and 57-56 and is now 3-5-1. Ellis, 134 lbs of Baltimore, MD is 4-1.
AUDIO: Rolando Romero Explosive Media Interview
VIDEO: Rolando Romero Explosive Media Interview
VIDEO: Gervonta Davis vs. Rolando Romero: Weigh-In | SHOWTIME PPV
GERVONTA DAVIS VS. ROLANDO ROMERO FINAL WEIGHTS AND COMMISSION OFFICIALS FOR WBA LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE SATURDAY ON SHOWTIME PPV®

WBA Lightweight Championship – 12 Rounds
Gervonta Davis – 133 ¾ lbs.
Rolando Romero – 134 ¼ lbs.
Referee: David Fields; Judges: Ron McNair (N.Y.), Kevin Morgan (N.Y.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.)
WBA Middleweight Championship – 12 Rounds
Erislandy Lara – 159 ¾ lbs.
Gary O’Sullivan – 159 lbs.
Referee: Benjy Esteves; Judges: Allen Nace (N.Y.), Tony Paolillo (N.Y.), Waleska Roldan (N.Y.)
Super Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds
Jesús Ramos – 153 ½ lbs.
Luke Santamaría – 154 lbs.
Referee: Arthur Mercante; Judges: Mark Consentino (N.J.), Ken Ezzo (Conn.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)
Super Featherweight Bout – 10 Rounds
Eduardo Ramírez – 130 lbs.
Luis Meléndez – 130 lbs.
Referee: Johnny Callas; Judges: Bernard Bruni (Penn.), John McKaie (N.Y.), John Poturaj (N.J.)
Live Prelims on SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel – Saturday, 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT
Click HERE to Watch
Super Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds
Luis Arias – 155 ¼ lbs.
Jimmy Williams – 154 lbs.
Referee: TBD; Judges: TBD
Welterweight Bout – 6 Rounds
Jalil Hackett – 145 lbs.
Jose Belloso – 145 ¾ lbs.
Referee: TBD; Judges: TBD
The most trusted and experienced team in combat sports will be on the pay-per-view call. Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME PPV telecast while renowned International Boxing Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins will handle blow-by-blow action alongside fellow Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three additional Hall of Famers round out the SHOWTIME telecast team – Emmy® award-winning reporter Jim Gray, unofficial scorer Steve Farhood and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action with former junior middleweight world champion and SHOBOX analyst Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP). Brian Campbell and Marquez, voices of the popular SHOBOX: The New Generation series, will be on the call for the live preliminary bouts streaming on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel alongside NBA champion Stephen Jackson of ALL THE SMOKE and former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams.
The executive producer of SHOWTIME PPV is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins Jr., the director is Bob Dunphy, son of legendary Hall of Famer Don Dunphy.
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ABOUT DAVIS VS. ROMERO
Davis vs. Romero will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Title against unbeaten No. 1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero on Saturday, May 28 live on SHOWTIME PPV from Barclays Center in Brooklyn headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event. Plus, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos faces Luke Santamaría in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in the 10-round super featherweight telecast opener.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.
GERVONTA DAVIS VS. ROLANDO ROMERO FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

BROOKLYN – May 26, 2022 – Five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, boxing’s hottest young attraction, and unbeaten No.1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero squared off at a tense final press conference Thursday before they meet in the SHOWTIME PPV main event this Saturday, May 28 headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
The unbeaten rivals headline the PPV telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and restated their intention to close the show Saturday night in emphatic style. Davis will return to the sight of his star-making 2017 knockout over Jose Pedraza that saw him capture his first world title and offer the first glimpse at the box office sensation he would become.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Brooklyn Marriott:
GERVONTA DAVIS
“I want to thank everybody for coming out. I appreciate everyone who came out today and everyone who made this fight happen. I’m ready and I’m happy to be at this point. The talking is over and the time for fighting is now.
“We’ve been working hard in camp and we know that ‘Rolly’ is going to come out in round one and try to knock me out like he said. I’ll be ready for that. I’ll see everyone Saturday. The time is here and I’m ready.
“I’m excited to be back in Brooklyn and back at Barclays Center. This is a great city that always shows me love. It’s always been like a second home to me. I’m grateful to be back.
“I won my first title here in Brooklyn and then won a second title at Barclays Center as well. I feel like this fight at this arena is great for boxing.
“I’m maturing and I’m still learning as I walk this path. I have the people that I started with around me and I’m grateful. Nothing else to say except Saturday night is ‘Rolly’s’ due date.
“This is going to be fireworks. It’s going to be crazy in there. I just hope he doesn’t use his elbows like he does a lot.
“I don’t think he’s awkward. I just think he’s a guy who just started fighting. He’s like someone who just came into the gym. He’s like someone who thinks he’s nice now even though he hasn’t gotten it down pat yet. Real fighters know awkward fighters, he’s just a dumb fighter.
“I just want to show people that there are different levels when it comes to boxing. There are people that play boxing and there are people who have been doing this since they were kids. It’s time to show that I’m one of the guys who’s not to be played with. It starts with him and it’s going to continue.”
ROLANDO ROMERO
“This guy Davis talks about everything but the fight. He’s taking this fight personally. My job is just to beat him up. He’s very emotional. That’s why I’ve been calling him out.
“He has a big head for me to hit. I’m not going to say what punch I’m getting him with, but you’re all going to see on Saturday night. This is ending in one round.
“I’m ready to get violent in the ring. I’m smiling right now, but Saturday is going to be different. I feel extremely calm in the ring. I get into ‘Rolly’ mode.
“He never knows what to say or how to react to anything. He’s taking this fight too serious. When have you seen him this skinny before a fight? He’s scared of me.
“You guys are going to see ‘Tank’ get knocked out in one round Saturday night at Barclays Center. Nothing else needs to be said.
“I got to this point faster than anyone else and I’m here for a reason. I’m the new face of boxing and everyone is going to see on Saturday when I knock ‘Tank’ out.
“All ‘Tank’ does is the same basic pad work like everyone else. They all get knocked out when they run into a big puncher. Just like his guy Adrien Broner, this is going to be an Adrien Broner vs. Marcos Maidana sequel.
“I’m going to go in there and hit him with one punch and we’re going to be done.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“Saturday night can’t get here fast enough. I’ve been in and around this sport for well over 45 years and I can honestly say that this is one of the most anticipated fights that I’ve been involved with.
“Come Saturday night, somebody is going to lose and somebody is getting knocked out. I know both guys are in tremendous shape. They’ve had excellent camps. No matter what anyone says, both guys have gotten up for this fight.
“In my eyes, this is a very dangerous fight for both guys. Sometimes there is a person who is supposed to win, but it doesn’t come out like that. Sometimes that person gets it done.
“Over the last year we’ve all seen Canelo Alvarez, Manny Pacquiao, Mikey Garcia, Teofimo Lopez, Anthony Joshua and Chris Colbert all came into their fights knowing they were going to win the fight, and somehow they came up short.
“When you look at ‘Tank’, he’s doing exactly what he’s supposed to be doing. He’s one of the best fighters in the entire world. When you look at ‘Rolly’, a lot of people talk about what he can’t do, but from experience, that looks different when you’re up in it in the ring.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President of SHOWTIME Sports
“This is the third fight on a very intense six-week stretch of high-level boxing on SHOWTIME. It is part of an incredible run of top tier fights on the network. Now, we have this grudge match between one of the sports brightest young stars in Gervonta Davis, and his most heated rival, the power punching K.O. artist Rolando Romero.
“No other network is televising more meaningful, high stakes and entertaining fights. These guys all watch each other’s fights and they’re competitive and no one wants to put up a boring fight. I’m very confident that this streak of stoppages will continue. Neither fighter wants this to go 12 rounds.
“SHOWTIME televised the first boxing event at Barclays Center, and since then we’ve done 20 more, making Saturday our 22nd fight at Barclays Center. ‘Tank’s’ first fight at Barclays Center was memorable in itself, and since then he’s sold out venues in L.A., Atlanta and Baltimore, and now back to Brooklyn, where he’s on track for another sellout
“This will be ‘Tank’s’ 12th time fighting on SHOWTIME and we’re thrilled to have watched him grow up and mature into one of the biggest stars in boxing. When ‘Tank’ fights, it’s an event, and this one may be the most exciting one yet.
“When you talk about the young stars of boxing, ‘Tank’ is in a class by himself. There isn’t another young fighter in the sport who generates the buzz and excitement that ‘Tank’ does. But none of that matters on Saturday night.
“Romero has proven himself on SHOWTIME before. You can call him awkward or unorthodox, you can say anything you want. One thing you can’t argue with is ‘Rolly’s’ power. That’s what has everybody so intrigued.”
#
ABOUT DAVIS VS. ROMERO
Davis vs. Romero will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Title against unbeaten No. 1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero on Saturday, May 28 live on SHOWTIME PPV from Barclays Center in Brooklyn headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event. Plus, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos faces Luke Santamaría in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in the 10-round super featherweight telecast opener.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.
VIDEO: Gervonta Davis vs Rolando Romero Final Press Conference
GERVONTA DAVIS VS. ROLANDO ROMERO MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

BROOKLYN – May 25, 2022 – Five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, boxing’s hottest young attraction, and unbeaten No.1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero kicked off fight week Wednesday at a media workout before they square off in the SHOWTIME PPV main event this Saturday, May 28 headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
The media workout also featured WBA Middleweight Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara and hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan, who square off in the co-main event, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos and Luke Santamaría, who compete in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, plus hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez and Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez, who kick off the telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from world famous Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn:
GERVONTA DAVIS
“It means a lot to be back at Barclays Center. The atmosphere here is incredible. This is a great city. I wouldn’t want to fight anywhere else. I’m grateful to have a great fanbase here and we’re excited.
“I’m not emotional about what ‘Rolly’ is saying. At first I was, but he showed me that he’s just a hype job. He’s trying to hype himself up to get into the fight. It feels like he’s acting fake right now. He’s never been in this position and you can tell.
“We have to wait and see what happens. He’s predicting a first round knockout, but I’m predicting something else. Make sure you buy the PPV or come out if you’re in Brooklyn, because it’s going to be a hell of a fight for sure.
“A lot of fighters are calling each other out but aren’t fighting. He worked his way up to this point and called me out. Now the fight is happening, so it’ll be great to have him on my resume after he talked all that trash.
“The fight is here. I’m sure it’ll be a little tense at the press conference, but not for me. I’m only worrying about getting in there Saturday and handling business.
“I think I’m growing as I continue on this path. I feel as though I’m getting better and better each day. I’m trying to walk like a champion just as much as I fight like a champion. I have two great daughters that I’m trying to raise and I’m trying to be the best person I can be.
“It’s going to be a hell of a fight. I know that it’s going to be fireworks for sure. He’s coming with a lot of power and emotion and I’m coming with my power for sure. I just can’t wait. It’s a big night for boxing.”
ROLANDO ROMERO
“Look at the resume of his fights. He’s faced weight drained guys, U.K. fighters, 122 and 126 pounders, and guys past their prime. Mario Barrios was weight drained in a damn bathtub for eight hours straight. I also thought Isaac Cruz beat him up.
“Davis didn’t show up to sparring twice when we agreed to it, because he’s scared of me. He says I’m scared, but that guy is scared of me.
“This feels really good. It’s about time he gets in the ring with me. I’m built for this moment and this fight. Not everyone is built for this. Davis obviously isn’t built for this. He can’t even say a word. I’m the superstar here.
“I already think I’m pound-for-pound number one, so I definitely should be in that spot after I win on Saturday.
“He’s going to get knocked out in one round. He’s been knocked down in the gym a bunch of times. He gets wobbled, knocked out and all sorts of hurt. I feel bad for him.
“I’m going to go in there and beat him up. That’s my only game plan.
“Make your money betting on me in this fight. We’re all going to get rich together.”
ERISLANDY LARA
“I feel great. I’m very excited to be back fighting in Brooklyn again. This is a great opportunity to perform on a big stage on SHOWTIME PPV.
“My expectation is to go in there and put on a good show. I feel very strong and very prepared and we’ll see what happens in the ring on Saturday.
“Training camp went great. We put in incredible work in the gym day after day. Now I’m excited to be here for fight week.
“I need about two rounds to get familiar with my opponent, then I’ll be able to tell exactly where this fight is going. Once I figure out what I need to do, it’s just about executing.
“My only focus is on this fight Saturday night. If the other champions want to avoid me that’s their problem. I’m taking it one fight at a time.”
GARY O’SULLIVAN
“My layoff doesn’t mean a great deal to me. I’ve sparred three days a week during training camp. So any ring rust has been shaken off in camp.
“I’m looking forward to fighting at Barclays Center. It looks like an amazing atmosphere from everything I’ve seen and it’s going to be an honor to step into the ring.
“The first thing on my mind is beating Lara on Saturday. I’m ready for this opportunity. When I win this fight, I’ll be ready to beat him again in the rematch.
“I wouldn’t say that Lara has fallen off. He’s still a great fighter. He might even be more powerful than he’s been in the past. He sits down on his punches much better now and I think that suits me even better.
“I look forward to sharing the ring with Lara. I’ve got a good chin and I’m a tough man. I’m facing a great boxer who would give anyone trouble. I have to find a way to overcome that.
“I always come to fight. I’m coming in there to take him out. My mission is to stop him. I want to become the first man to stop him.”
JESUS RAMOS
“I’m very excited for my first time fighting here in Brooklyn. It’s a big moment for me also because he beat my uncle (Abel Ramos) so I have to get revenge.
“Fighting someone who beat my uncle is some extra motivation for sure. I don’t have anything against him personally. I don’t have any anger toward him. This is a business at the end of the day. He got the nod in that fight, but I’m going to make sure I get the nod Saturday.
“I’m pretty calm as a fighter. I stay composed in there. I won’t let any emotions get the best of me. I’m just going to focus on the game plan.
“I want to show what I can do in there. Santamaria is a good boxer who moves well, so I have to remedy that. I’m going to show everyone I can handle that style.
“Santamaria is smaller than me, so I’m expecting a knockout. I’m a full 154 pounder now and I’m going to show him the difference.
“There are a lot of big fights to be made in this division. I want to get in there with all of the top guys. Eventually, I’m going to be ready for that world title shot.
“I’ve got a lot of family and friends coming here from Arizona and I expect to be able to hear them on Saturday night.”
LUKE SANTAMARIA
“This is very exciting. I’ve always wanted to fight in New York and what better place than at Barclays Center?
“This is a very important fight for me. Even though it’s at a new weight class, it’s still very crucial I get this win. I feel really good at the weight, I had less to cut and I get to eat a little more. I feel very strong.
“I’m planning to go in there and show him the sweet science of boxing. I’m going to take him to school. I’m prepared for anything that’s coming on Saturday.
“I’m very thankful to those people who have followed me throughout my career. Nobody is going to want to miss this one.
“I’m very motivated to be in this position on a huge card like this. I’m ready to put on a show and shock the world once again.
“I’m sticking to my boxing roots. I can box and fight, but I’m going to be ready for whatever the fight dictates. This is going to be a great atmosphere and I can’t wait.
“I know that Ramos is coming for my head because I beat his uncle (Abel Ramos). I have to be smart and have my head on straight. It’s a little bit of a strange situation but it’s motivating.”
EDUARDO RAMIREZ
“This is a very important fight for me. I know that it’s going to be a great challenge, but it’s the next step I need to take for my career.
“My camp has been heavy on a lot of sparring. I’ve been doing everything that I can to make this training camp as intense as possible.
“The fans are going to see a very aggressive Eduardo Ramirez. The fans here have seen me fight before and they’re going to be in for a show once again on Saturday night.
“This is my chance to get one step closer to a world title. I’m putting myself in line to be the mandatory for Shakur Stevenson so I hope he steps up and agrees when the time to fight comes.
“This means everything to me. I’m extremely motivated to win this fight. This is an extremely important fight for my career.
“I’m not focused on predicting a knockout, but I know that no matter what I’m going to come get a victory.”
LUIS MELENDEZ
“This is an opportunity of a lifetime for me. I’ve been waiting for it and I’m going to take advantage on Saturday.
“A win on Saturday means everything to me. The goal is to not leave this fight in the judges’ hands. Whether it’s a decision or knockout, I’m going to come out of there with my hand raised.
“I don’t know too much about my opponent, but I know that he hasn’t been in there with anybody like me. I can’t judge him based off other fights, but that’s what makes this a great matchup. We’re going to bring the best out of each other.
“Brooklyn has a lot of Puerto Rican fans and being on this stage is a life-changing opportunity. I’m going to come out of this fight as a superstar.
“I’m going to win and it won’t matter who comes next. I’m going to be ready for them. I’ve prepared myself and I believe in my skills and my team. I know my abilities and I was born to be here. This is my time for sure.”
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ABOUT DAVIS VS. ROMERO
Davis vs. Romero will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Title against unbeaten No. 1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero on Saturday, May 28 live on SHOWTIME PPV from Barclays Center in Brooklyn headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event. Plus, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos faces Luke Santamaría in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in the 10-round super featherweight telecast opener.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.
LIVE VIDEO: Gervonta Davis vs. Rolando Romero: Media Workout | SHOWTIME PPV
Super Welterweight Contender Luis Arias Duels Jimmy Williams Plus Rising Prospect Jalil Hackett Battles Unbeaten Jose Belloso in Undercard Showdowns Streaming Live on the SHOWTIME Sports® YouTube Page This Saturday, May 28

BROOKLYN – May 25, 2022 – Super welterweight contender Luis “Cuba” Arias will face Jimmy Williams in a 10-round showdown, while exciting welterweight prospect Jalil “Major” Hackett takes on unbeaten Jose Belloso for a six-round attraction in undercard bouts that will stream live on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube page this Saturday, May 28 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
The streaming action will begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and lead into the highly-anticipated SHOWTIME PPV lineup headlined by WBA Lightweight Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, boxing’s hottest young attraction, taking on unbeaten No.1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero. SHOWTIME has tapped a notable announce team to host the streamed fights on Saturday’s pre-show as veteran combat sports reporter Brian Campbell of MORNING KOMBAT, NBA champion Stephen Jackson of ALL THE SMOKE, and former unified world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams will call the preliminary action live from the 40/40 Club inside Barclays Center and look ahead to the PPV bouts.
Campbell will also serve as the host of Friday’s live-streamed weigh-in with Jackson and former world champion Raul Marquez covering the weigh-in and breaking down the fights. Former NBA superstar Tracy McGrady will also join Friday’s weigh-in stream as a special guest from the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page, and the Premier Boxing Champions YouTube page.
The SHOWTIME PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event. Plus, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos faces Luke Santamaría in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in the 10-round super featherweight telecast opener.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
A native of Milwaukee who now trains out of Las Vegas, Mayweather Promotions’ Arias (19-3-1, 9 KOs) will look to bounce back on Saturday night from a split-decision loss to Vaughn Alexander in December. Prior to that fight, Arias had scored a career-best victory in June 2021, as he earned a decision victory over former unified champion Jarrett Hurd on the Mayweather vs. Paul SHOWTIME PPV undercard. Arias has also battled former champion Daniel Jacobs and owns a draw against veteran contender Gabriel Rosado. He will take on New Haven, Connecticut’s Williams (18-7-2, 6 KOs), who also will be looking to return to the win column after dropping a March contest to unbeaten Tyron James. The 35-year-old Williams owns a 2021 victory over former champion Yuri Foreman and has fought everywhere from 140 to 160 pounds throughout his career, having faced top contenders such as Brandun Lee and Abel Ramos.
Hackett (3-0, 2 KOs), a fast-rising prospect in the Mayweather Promotions’ stable, will look to continue his road toward becoming the next great fighter representing Washington, D.C. as he continues his burgeoning pro career on Saturday night. The 19-year-old turned pro in June 2021, scoring a first-round knockout of Angelo Diaz. He followed that up with another first-round knockout in October, before earning a shutout four-round unanimous decision over Darynn Levya in December. He will face off against the fellow unbeaten Belloso (4-0, 4 KOs), who is yet to go the distance since turning pro in June 2021. The 29-year-old is originally from Carson, California and now resides in Arkansas, having most recently stopped Anthony Woods in three rounds in December.
In non-televised undercard bouts, New York-native Arnold Gonzalez (9-0, 5 KOs) will take on Tracey McGruder (6-2, 4 KOs) in a six-round welterweight fight, plus Cincinnati’s Adrian Benton (6-0, 4 KOs) competes in a six-round super lightweight duel versus Mexico’s Jose Antonio Meza (8-6, 2 KOs), while Baltimore’s Cuttino Oliver (1-0, 1 KO) faces South Carolina’s Jahden Lewis (2-1, 1 KO) in a four-round super bantamweight attraction and Baltimore’s Mia Ellis (4-0, 3 KOs) steps in against Haiti’s Jaica Pavilus (2-1, 1 KO) for a six-round lightweight showdown.
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ABOUT DAVIS VS. ROMERO
Davis vs. Romero will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Title against unbeaten No. 1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero on Saturday, May 28 live on SHOWTIME PPV from Barclays Center in Brooklyn headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event. Plus, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos faces Luke Santamaría in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in the 10-round super featherweight telecast opener.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.
VIDEO: ALL ACCESS: Davis vs. Romero | Teaser | TOMORROW at 9:30PM ET/PT on SHOWTIME
ROLANDO ROMERO LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES
LAS VEGAS – May 17, 2022 – Unbeaten No.1 ranked contender Rolando Romero headlined a media workout in Las Vegas Tuesday and promised a first-round knockout victory in his showdown against WBA Lightweight Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, boxing’s hottest young attraction, taking place Saturday, May 28 live on SHOWTIME PPV from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
The media workout also featured two-division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara, who defends his WBA Middleweight Title against Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event, and unbeaten rising star Jesus “Mono” Ramos, who battles Luke Santamaria in a 10-round duel on the pay-per-view.
In addition, super welterweight contender Luis “Cuba” Arias worked out for media ahead of his bout on the undercard lineup on May 28.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Here is what the workout participants had to say Tuesday from Mayweather Boxing Club:
ROLANDO ROMERO
“One round, I’m knocking him out. If I say I’m going to do it, then I’m going to do it.
“He’s going to get knocked out by the first punch that he eats. He’s going to run right into something.
“I always feel good every time I’m going into a fight. I don’t like ‘Tank’ as a person and I believe he’s going to get whupped in this fight.
“He ducked me twice for sparring and the bad blood has been there ever since. I’ve been calling him out since 2017. The only reason this fight was made was because I wanted it. He doesn’t want this. He wishes he was fighting some 126 or 122-pounder.
“I just saw a bunch of nervous energy from Gervonta when we faced off. He didn’t say anything to me. He doesn’t even believe he’s going to knock me out.
“Tell me one fight where he hasn’t gotten punched on by smaller dudes with no power? I’m way more accurate than anyone he’s ever fought. I’m way stronger and more explosive. It’s just common sense, he’s getting knocked out.
“I thought Isaac Cruz beat Gervonta. That fight showed just how vulnerable he is. He’s scared of people that can actually crack.
“Having Joel Casamayor in my camp is great. Just watching him, because he’s a slick southpaw, has taught me a lot. He’s helped me with my movement and my accuracy and he’s watched me knock a lot of people out ever since the amateurs.
“I don’t have any message for Davis, I just have these fists.”
ERISLANDY LARA
“I’m excited to be fighting back in Brooklyn again. I’ve had a lot of success in New York and it’s going to be fun being on a big PPV event like this with Gervonta Davis.
“I have a great relationship with my training partners, including Luis Arias. We’ve had a great camp and we’ve really been pushing each other day after day.
“I feel strong at 160 pounds. I showed that in my last fight and I’ll show it again in this fight. I’m ready to display all of my skills once again.
“Come May 28, when I come out victorious, I’m ready to fight the best in the division. I’m not even going to mention their names, because I’m tired of doing that. I’m just focused on getting in the ring with all the best fighters.
“People are avoiding me at 160 pounds just like they did at 154. I’m a tough matchup for anyone out there. That’s why they don’t want to fight me.
“I’m going to come out focused and do what I know how to do on fight night. Most importantly, I’ll leave the ring with my hand raised.
“I couldn’t really tell you how O’Sullivan fights, that’s something I leave to my coaches. I’m just working to be at my best and show everyone what I can do on May 28.”
JESUS RAMOS
“Everything is great with training camp. I feel ready. We added Larry Wade as our strength and conditioning coach, so our team is growing. Little by little, we’re getting better and better.
“It’s fair to say that I’ve never been in better shape. I feel strong and I’m ready for whatever Luke Santamaria brings on fight night.
“It was a close fight but I don’t think Santamaria beat my uncle Abel Ramos in their fight in February. Santamaria was hurt a few times, but it is what it is. I feel like he’s got a false confidence coming into this fight because of that. I don’t think that’s going to help him at all.
“My mom and dad argue all the time about who I get my power from. I guess it’s just something that comes naturally to me.
“This is a big card that everyone is looking forward to. It’s a great privilege to me and I’m not taking it lightly. I’m coming at my best and I’m coming to perform.
“I have to make a big statement and show the whole division that I’m here to stay. That win over Vladimir Hernandez is going to lead to bigger things and that’s what I need to show next Saturday.”
LUIS ARIAS
“I’m just happy to be part of this great event. I want to thank Mayweather Promotions for continuing to believe in me. I moved to Las Vegas after the Jarrett Hurd fight and connected with Ismael Salas. I’ve been training with Lara at Salas’ gym, and we actually just got done sparring.
“Camp has been amazing. The work has been great and the rounds I’ve gotten in have been great. I’m sparring with Jessie Vargas and Erislandy Lara and that work is going to show.
“I feel young in the ring. I’ve had layoffs throughout my career. I feel better and better fight after fight. The more rounds I go, the easier it is for me. I would say I’m young, but well-seasoned. I’m going to be ready when my title fight comes.
“I’ve been calling out Tony Harrison since I beat Hurd. I feel like if I beat another former champion, I’m right there for a world title shot. That just makes the most sense for both of us. Let’s give the fight fans what they want.
“None of the top 154 pounders have a better resume than me. I’ve had my setbacks but I’m right there.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“Romero has been asking me for this fight for years. Every time he sees me he asks about ‘Tank’. Now is his opportunity. We’re right here, close to the fight and I’m expecting a terrific contest.
“This is a very dangerous fight for both guys. ‘Tank’ is one of the best fighters in the world right now. He’s very slick and has tremendous skills that he hasn’t even been able to fully display. Everyone knows he’s a great puncher. When you look at Romero, he’s an awkward fighter and that can work to his advantage. I’ve seen a lot of awkward fighters have great success.
“It’s hard to prepare for guys who don’t have traditional styles. This is going to be a very entertaining fight and I expect this one to end in a knockout.
“’Tank’ is a big-time attraction and everyone wants to come out and see him fight. Any fight that he’s involved with is a big fight.”
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ABOUT DAVIS VS. ROMERO
Davis vs. Romero will see five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defend his WBA Lightweight Title against unbeaten No. 1 ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero on Saturday, May 28 live on SHOWTIME PPV from Barclays Center in Brooklyn headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features two division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in the co-main event. Plus, sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos faces Luke Santamaría in a 10-round super welterweight showdown, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in the 10-round super featherweight telecast opener.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.
LIVE VIDEO: Rolando Romero Media Workout | #DavisRomero
SHOWTIME SPORTS® TO CHRONICLE GERVONTA DAVIS VS. ROLANDO ROMERO WITH EMMY® AWARD-WINNING SERIES ALL ACCESS

NEW YORK – May 13, 2022 – SHOWTIME SPORTS will chronicle the buildup to the SHOWTIME PPV® battle between five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and unbeaten No. 1-ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando “Rolly” Romero with a new installment of the Emmy Award-winning series ALL ACCESS. The two-part series premieres Saturday, May 21 at 9:30 p.m. ET/6:30 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME immediately preceding the David Benavidez vs. David Lemieux SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast with the epilogue premiering Saturday, June 4.
ALL ACCESS: DAVIS VS. ROMERO peels back the curtain to reveal how the two fighters prepare to settle their longtime score on Saturday, May 28 live on SHOWTIME PPV in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Davis and Romero have been on a months-long, grudge-fueled collision course filled with verbal sparring and social media taunting and now, as the time nears for them to step into the ring and bring big-time boxing back to Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., ALL ACCESS sees them at their most candid. Boxing’s hottest attraction, Davis, details his new-found focus and motivation following his decisive victory over Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz last December, while the normally brash and flashy Romero shows an introspective side as he details his upbringing in a dangerous Las Vegas, reflecting on what brought him to this moment.
Filming is underway as Baltimore native Davis prepares with longtime trainer Calvin Ford in Miami, Fla., and proud Cuban American Romero trains in Las Vegas under the tutelage of Bullet Cromwell.
ALL ACCESS: DAVIS VS. ROMERO EPILOGUE will premiere Saturday, June 4 immediately following the conclusion of Stephen Fulton Jr. vs. Danny Roman SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast.
Davis vs. Romero is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.
GERVONTA DAVIS VS. ROLANDO ROMEROSHOWTIME PPV® ADDS THREE UNDERCARD SHOWDOWNS FEATURING TITLE CLASH, SENSATIONAL YOUNG STARS, AND ALL-ACTION BRAWLERS ON SATURDAY, MAY 28
BROOKLYN – April 29, 2022 – The SHOWTIME PPV undercard for Gervonta Davis vs. Rolando Romero will feature three exciting, explosive matchups entering the ring in high-stakes action on Saturday, May 28 live from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in a Premier Boxing Champions event.
Two-division world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara will defend his WBA Middleweight Title against hard-hitting, Irish crowd-pleaser Gary “Spike” O’Sullivan in an all-action co-main event of the telecast, which begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Sensational young star Jesús “Mono” Ramos will put his unbeaten record on the line against rugged super welterweight battler Luke Santamaría in a 10-round showdown on the pay-per-view, while hard-hitting contender Eduardo Ramírez battles Puerto Rico’s Luis Meléndez in a 10-round super featherweight thriller that shapes up to deliver toe-to-toe action opening up the telecast.
“When you look at the matchups, this is an edge-of-your-seat pay-per-view undercard,’’ said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Erislandy Lara, a highly skilled champion who has engaged in numerous exciting action bouts, will have everything he can handle against Gary O’Sullivan, who has never backed up in a boxing ring. Fans will also get to see exciting young star Jesús Ramos bringing that heat-seeking knockout mentality to the ring against rugged brawler Luke Santamaría, and Eduardo Ramírez versus Luis Meléndez, as they look to add their duel as the latest chapter in the classic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico boxing rivalry. Whether you’re watching at Barclays Center in Brooklyn or watching live on SHOWTIME PPV, you’re going to be entertained all night long.’’
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Lara (28-3-3, 16 KOs) was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a title unification match in 2018 that earned “Fight of the Year” from the BWAA. Lara returned from that fight and battled current 154-pound world titleholder Brian Castaño to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. Lara most recently moved up to middleweight, capturing his WBA title with a first round knockout of Thomas LaManna in May 2021. Lara faced a slew of the top 154-pounders in the sport, including Canelo Alvarez, ahead of his middleweight debut.
“I’m ready to get back in the ring and show the fans that I’m still a world class fighter,” said Lara. “Gary O’Sullivan has proven to be a tough opponent for everyone he’s faced, and his only losses are to champions. I’ve been in many great fights and it will be no different when I step into the ring at Barclays Center. Being on this stage always brings out the best in me and fans can expect to see my power in this fight.’’
A native of Cork, Ireland, O’Sullivan (31-4, 21 KOs) has won three of his last four fights leading into his title shot against Lara on May 28. O’Sullivan’s aggressive style has made him a fan-favorite each time he steps into the ring. He has faced a deep roster of top names, including David Lemieux, Jaime Munguia, Chris Eubank Jr., and Billy Joe Saunders. O’Sullivan scored a career-best victory in December 2017, as he stopped rising prospect Antoine Douglas during a five-fight knockout streak.
“From the very first time I watched boxing, I’ve always dreamed of being a world champion and from the first day I turned professional I’ve worked towards that goal,” said O’Sullivan. “I’ve had some setbacks, but I’ve gone back to the drawing board, regrouped, righted some wrongs and kept pushing forward. I’ve always known that one day the chips would fall in my favor. I’m coming to rip that belt back to Ireland and hear the words, ‘And the new!’”
A strong southpaw who at 21 has yet to come close to hitting his ceiling as a fighter, Ramos (18-0, 15 KOs) is the nephew of welterweight contender Abel Ramos, who was defeated in February by Santamaría via unanimous decision. Jesus knocked out tough contender Vladimir Hernandez in February on that same card. Prior to that impressive outing, Ramos had shown the ability to outpoint his opponents with back-to-back 10-round unanimous decisions over Brian Mendoza in September 2021 and Javier Molina in May 2021. Overall, the youthful Ramos has gained recognition with highlight-reel KOs, stopping six of his last eight opponents, showcasing a desire to end his fights early.
“Training out in Las Vegas has been going great so far,” said Ramos. “We’ve had some great sparring out here. We expect Santamaria to move around the entire fight, so we’re going to be ready to cut the ring off and land heavy shots. I’m going to win on May 28 because of the preparation I’ve been doing, but I’m not underestimating anyone and will prepare to the best of my ability.”
The 24-year-old Santamaría (13-2-1, 7 KOs) will look to continue his success against the Ramos family as he steps into the ring after back-to-back impressive victories, first defeating two-division champion Devon Alexander in August 2021 before defeating Abel Ramos in February on less than two weeks’ notice. Santamaría had previously dropped a decision to top prospect and SHOBOX: The New Generation® alum Paul Kroll in October 2020, following an August 2020 triumph over veteran contender Mykal Fox that saw him put Fox down in the first round. The Garden Grove, Calif. native also owns a decision over Willie Jones and a majority draw against SHOBOX® prospect Marquis Taylor in his 2019 contests.
“I’m daring to be great in this fight,” said Santamaría. “That’s the main reason I agreed to fight Ramos. I’ve shown that I’m willing to compete against anyone, because I believe in my training and my abilities. This is going to be a great fight for the fans and I can’t wait to step in there on May 28.”
Fighting out of Sinaloa, Mexico, Ramírez (26-2-3, 12 KOs) has risen up the rankings with four-straight victories, including most recently defeating Miguel Marriaga in December 2021. He previously had stopped then-unbeaten Leduan Barthelemy in November 2019 before blasting out Miguel Flores in December 2020. The 29-year-old is currently riding wins in six of his last seven fights since losing to then featherweight champion Lee Selby in 2017. He’s won 17 of his last 20 fights overall, including a March 2019 knockout victory at Barclays Center.
“I’m happy to be returning to Brooklyn for this fight,” said Ramírez. “I scored a big knockout last time I was there, even though I was the underdog going into the fight. My plan is to deliver a moment like that once again. I’m already in great shape and I will be prepared for a war on May 28.”
Originally from Puerto Rico and now fighting out of Miami, Fla., Meléndez (17-1, 13 KOs) has moved into contender status with an undefeated streak after dropping his third pro fight back in 2018 via split decision. The 24-year-old was busy in 2021, winning eight times, including six victories by knockout. Most recently, Melendez scored a career-best victory over Thomas Mattice in November, winning a unanimous decision after eight rounds. Melendez’s clash with Ramírez shapes up to be a classic Puerto Rico-Mexico ring war.
“I’m very excited to be on a big card like this,” said Meléndez. “I’m grateful for the opportunity and I’m coming to put my name on the map come May 28. The winner of this fight is going to be the fans. I’m going to make Puerto Rico proud once again and display my talents in the ring. I want to thank my team and say that I’m not going to disappoint, because this is just the beginning for me.”
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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #DavisRomero, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @BrooklynBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @MayweatherPromotions and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions/.
GERVONTA DAVIS VS. ROLANDO ROMERO PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

BROOKLYN – April 7, 2022 – Five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, boxing’s hottest attraction, and unbeaten No. 1-ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero went face to face and chest-to-chest at a hot-tempered press conference on Thursday to preview their volatile matchup for Davis’s WBA Lightweight Title taking place Saturday, May 28 on SHOWTIME PPV from Barclays Center in Brooklyn headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The unbeaten rivals squared off ahead of their championship clash and declared their dislike for the other and intention to deliver fireworks on Memorial Day weekend in Brooklyn. During the ceremonial stare-down, the fighters did more than look at each other, waving their hands in the other’s face and showcasing the fiery rivalry that should make their fight so entertaining. A three-division world champion, Davis returns to Barclays Center where he delivered a star-making performance in 2017 as he thrilled the Brooklyn crowd by stopping Jose Pedraza to capture his first world title.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.
Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from Barclays Center in Brooklyn:
GERVONTA DAVIS
“We’re ready and we’ve been in camp. This isn’t our first time getting ready for ‘Rolly’. We saw how he choked up when the lights are in his face. We’ll see how he reacts when everyone is cheering against him on fight night.
“Some people are made to do it, and some people just talk their way through it. We know what we’re coming here to do on May 28.
“We’ll see what this guy brings on fight night, under the bright lights. I had to walk through the door when it was time and become the man. Come fight night, it’s time to step up to that plate.
“This isn’t going to be an easy walk. Like my coach said, it’s about respect. I’m a man and he’s a man. We have our differences. We’ll see who’s the last man standing come fight night.
“I won my first title here and I’m grateful to be back at Barclays Center. I just want to be the best that I can be. It’s time for me to show that I’m the man in this sport. I believe that I’m the face of the lightweight division and I just want to live up to that. My goal is to go out there and be better than I was yesterday.
“He’s just worrying about power, he’s not working on anything else. They’re only plan is to knock me out. I hit him with one of these and I’m going to knock his whole nose off. They just keep talking about knockouts and trying to get me out of there early, because they know he can’t last down the line.”
ROLANDO ROMERO
“I think ‘Tank’ is an amazing fighter, but this is going to be the easiest fight of my career. It’s going to say a lot about my legacy when I knock him out. ’Tank’ gets punched a lot. I think he’s going to run right into something big.
“I’ve always been underrated. May 28, you’re going to see my ring IQ on display. He’s the best fighter at 135 pounds and he’d be the best if he were at 130 pounds. It doesn’t matter to me though. I know what I’m capable of.
“I’m already a star otherwise I wouldn’t be in this position right now. I’m one of the few fighters to get to headline a pay-per-view 14 fights into my career.
“Everybody is underestimating me. I started boxing at 17 and I got my first belt seven years in. I’ve gone in there and beat up everybody. ‘Tank’ is getting knocked out and that’s that.
“Gervonta keeps talking about these skills he has, but I just see his face getting swollen up after every fight he has. He just bullies smaller opponents. He’s not that special. We’re ending his little reign and he can go retire.
“I was supposed to spend my birthday out here in New York anyway, so I’m excited to be fighting here in Brooklyn. This is a legacy fight for me and I’m excited to be able to have it at Barclays Center.
“Gervonta Davis is ending up on the canvas knocked out. That’s what I can guarantee.”
CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer
“This is a big moment because this is where it all started for us. This fight is about unfinished business. This is our second time at this mark.
“I don’t have to worry about ‘Tank’. I want everyone to tune in or come down to the Barclays Center. Baltimore, New York, show up. Because you’re about to see something.
“These two guys have been going at it for years. It’s not about the ‘0’ this time, it’s about respect. I see ‘Rolly’ changed his look this time. It’s cold out there though. You better be ready. Because ‘Tank’ is back.”
BULLET CROMWELL, Romero’s Trainer
“As far as camp is concerned, ‘Rolly’ is dialed in and ready to go. We’ve had a great camp. Skill-wise and strength and conditioning-wise, his mindset is the best it’s ever been. I think we’re in for one of those record-breaking performances.
“Like they say here in Brooklyn, we’re the new kids on the block, but we’re not new to fighting. Somebody’s ‘0’ has got to go. This is a fight that’s ending in a knockout, there’s no other way to put it.
“Much respect to the Davis camp. They’ve put their work in and done their time, but we’re just here to derail that train. That’s exactly what we’re going to do.”
LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions
“When you look at these two fighters, both of them are tremendous punchers. But what I think it’s going to come down to is who can take whose shot. Because in boxing, as we know, anything can happen.
“Being in boxing for over 25 years at the highest level, I’ve seen it all. When I look at how this fight will play out, ‘Rolly’ is a big underdog and ‘Tank’ is the favorite for a reason. ‘Tank’ has shown that right now he’s one of the best fighters in the entire world. In my mind, I know this is a very dangerous fight for him. I use Floyd Mayweather as an example. Coming through the ranks, I’ve seen him get hit with big shots. Whether it be Victoriano Sosa, DeMarcus Corley, Shane Mosley, or Marcos Maidana, Floyd was able to show you that he had a Hall of Fame chin. Come May 28, when those two get in there and go to war, we’re going to find out who has the better chin.
“We know that when it comes to skills, there’s no doubt that ‘Tank’ Davis has the best skills in the entire sport. We’re going to find out come May 28 if ‘Rolly’ hits him on the button, does ‘Tank’ have a strong chin or not? Also on May 28, Rolly has never been hit by a tank before. How is he going to respond? Will he be able to take it? Tune in May 28. I guarantee you this fight is going to end in a knockout.”
JOHN ABBAMONDI, CEO of BSE Global
“It’s a cold and rainy day in Brooklyn, but May 28 is going to be a hot night at Barclays Center. The eyes of the boxing world will once again be focused on this arena, and BROOKLYN BOXING is ready for another big night of fights.
In 2012 Barclays Center brought boxing back to Brooklyn for the first time since 1931. We’re looking forward to building on this program’s legacy for hosting major fights with the WBA World Lightweight title on the line.
This will be Gervonta’s third fight at Barclays Center, after he won his first and second titles at Barclays Center in 2017 and 2019. Welcome back to Brooklyn Gervonta. I know that I can speak for the fans in the toughest of New York’s boroughs when I say that we’re looking forward to having you headline here for the first time.
“To ‘Rolly’ I think you’re going to find that there’s a special energy fighting here and we’re excited to see it in the ring.
“The partnership that we have built with Premier Boxing Champions has been instrumental in providing a great platform for this sport. Barclays Center has had over 20 fight nights on SHOWTIME and we’re tremendously proud to have your platform showcase our venue to the world. I hope to see everyone on May 28 for another big night of boxing.”
STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President of SHOWTIME Sports
“What we’re doing here at SHOWTIME is delivering competitive fights from top to bottom on each card. For the 22nd time on SHOWTIME, we’ll be doing that from Barclays Center and we’re thrilled to be back here. We have a long history here. SHOWTIME televised the first Barclays Center boxing event ever in October of 2012 between Danny Garcia and Erik Morales. Over the last eight years, Barclays Center has made a strong commitment to big-time boxing. May 28 will be the 40th boxing event the Barclays Center has hosted in the last 10 years. That’s quite a commitment and something that has been invaluable to the sport of boxing.
“This will be Gervonta’s 12th appearance on SHOWTIME. You’ve seen ‘Tank’ grow up literally in front of your eyes from pay-per-view pre-shows to fights overseas to championship fights and now his fourth pay-per-view headlining event. I remember the first time I saw ‘Tank’ fight in person. It was six years ago almost to the day. April 1, 2016, off TV undercard in D.C. underneath Adrien Broner. Floyd, Leonard Ellerbe and Mayweather Promotions told me this was a kid to watch. Well, they were certainly right about that. Less than a year later, he won his first title here at Barclays Center and now six years later, he’s headlining his fourth PPV.
“’Tank’s’ youth, his skillset, his box office appeal makes him one of the most popular fighters and one of the biggest draws in the sport. He’s sold out venues in L.A., Atlanta, Baltimore, and now his first headlining opportunity here in Brooklyn. Every time Tank steps in the ring, it’s must-see T.V.
“In this fight, ‘Tank’ has got another big personality in front of him. ‘Rolly’ Romero, 14-0 with 12 KOs, the number one contender in the WBA. It’s not an exaggeration to say that ‘Tank’ has never faced an opponent like Rolando Romero. He backs up his trash talk with brutal KOs. We’ve seen it on SHOWTIME. His debut on SHOBOX back in 2019 was a huge highlight reel knockout and ever since then, he’s established himself as one of the biggest punchers in the sport. He’ll be making his fifth appearance on SHOWTIME.
“If you ask Rolando, he says he gets his punching power from his dad, Rolando Sr., who was born and raised in Cuba and was a decorated boxer in that country’s amateur system. ‘Rolly’s’ father never got a chance to fight for a world title, so I don’t have to explain to you how meaningful an event this is for the Romero family.”
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FIVE-TIME WORLD CHAMPION GERVONTA DAVIS TO DEFEND WBA LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE AGAINST UNBEATEN CONTENDER ROLANDO ROMERO AT BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN ONSATURDAY, MAY 28

BROOKLYN – April 7, 2022 – Big-time boxing returns to Barclays Center in Brooklyn as five-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, boxing’s hottest young attraction, defends his lightweight title against unbeaten No. 1-ranked contender and mandatory challenger Rolando Romero on Saturday, May 28 headlining a SHOWTIME PPV in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.
A three-division world champion, Davis returns to Barclays Center where he delivered a star-making performance in 2017 as he thrilled the Brooklyn crowd by stopping Jose Pedraza to capture his first world title. The 27-year-old also owns a 2018 TKO win over Jesus Cuellar at Barclays Center that earned Davis his second world title. Now, in his third appearance at the venue, Davis will headline in Brooklyn for the first time.
Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center beginning today at 12 p.m. ET.
“We’re bringing a monster event to Barclays Center on May 28,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “This is definitely one that you don’t want to miss. ‘Tank’ and ‘Rolly’ have some unfinished business and it’s finally going to be settled. Neither one of them believe that the fight is going the distance, and to be frank, I don’t either. Don’t wait to get your tickets. See you in Brooklyn on May 28.”
“SHOWTIME® is thrilled to return to the Barclays Center with the next chapter of Gervonta Davis’ storied career after he first announced himself with a title-winning effort at the Brooklyn arena in 2017,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “The Barclays Center doesn’t just conjure up fond memories for Gervonta, it’s also a special place for SHOWTIME, which broadcast the first ever boxing event there in 2012 and will return for the 22nd time with a bang on May 28. There’s no love-lost between Davis and Romero in this matchup, and I’d be surprised if this fight didn’t end in a knockout. It should be electric for as long as it lasts.”
“BROOKLYN BOXING is ready for another big night of fights and we are looking forward to hosting Davis and Romero as they compete for the WBA World Lightweight Title,” said John Abbamondi, CEO of BSE Global, parent company of Barclays Center and the Brooklyn Nets. “We are thrilled to be a part of bringing this matchup to life and to once again work alongside our partners at PBC, Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions, and SHOWTIME, who all share the same vision and dedication to continuing the legacy of world-class boxing in our borough.”
Davis (26-0, 24 KOs), star of the Mayweather Promotions stable, added another highlight filled year to his resume in 2021, topping two SHOWTIME PPV events. In June he stopped previously unbeaten Mario Barrios to capture a 140-pound title and become a three-division world champion before turning away top lightweight contender Isaac Cruz in a successful December 5 title defense. In October 2020, Davis scored an emphatic knockout over Leo Santa Cruz, making him the first person to ever drop the four-division champion. Davis has asserted himself as a must-see headline attraction, selling out venues in Los Angeles, Atlanta and Baltimore, ever since bursting onto the scene with that explosive knockout victory over Pedraza. The Baltimore-native captured his lightweight championship with a 12th-round knockout of former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in December 2019.
“I’m excited and looking forward to fighting again in Brooklyn,” said Davis, who will be making his 12th appearance on SHOWTIME and fourth headlining on SHOWTIME PPV. “I have unfinished business with ‘Rolly’ and still plan on punishing him for as long as the fight lasts. Make sure you grab your tickets as soon as they go on sale or buy the SHOWTIME PPV if you’re not going to be able to make it. I’m going to be ready to put on a show on May 28 in front of all the great boxing fans at Barclays Center and around the world!”
Also a member of the Mayweather Promotions stable, Romero (14-0, 12 KOs) backs up his brash talk with power in both hands and an exciting and unique style that makes him must-see whenever he steps into the ring. Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez. The 26-year-old followed that victory up with a pair of impressive knockout triumphs in his last two fights. He dominated slick contender Avery Sparrow on his way to a seventh-round stoppage in January 2021, before most recently dropping former title challenger Anthony Yigit three times on his way to another seventh-round stoppage in July 2021. Fighting out of Las Vegas, the undefeated Romero began his pro career with knockouts in 10 of his first 11 fights.
“I’m actually more excited about this fight than the first time around,” said Romero. “I was unsatisfied with the events that led to the fight not happening, so I’m happy we’re here. I appreciate everything Leonard and Floyd Mayweather have done for my career development. I let them do what they do and here we are. I’m the mandatory, so I knew the fight was going to happen. Now, let’s settle this May 28. I’ve been in the gym this entire time because I don’t get fat like other fighters. Let’s face it, I’m the best-looking boxer inside and outside the ring, the fans want this fight. The boxer formerly known as ‘Rolly’ is here to stay!”
The first boxing event ever held at Barclays Center was a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® headlined by Danny Garcia’s fourth-round knockout of future Hall of Famer Erik Morales in their rematch on October 20, 2012. Garcia was also involved in the last SHOWTIME telecast at the Brooklyn arena when he decisioned Ivan Redkach on January 25, 2020. Davis vs. Romero represents the network’s 22nd airing from Barclays Center and the 40th pro boxing show there since the arena opened.
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