LAS VEGAS – April 17, 2023 – Closed circuit tickets for the highly anticipated showdown between undefeated rivals Gervonta “Tank” Davis and “King” Ryan Garcia will go on sale today at 10 a.m. PT ahead of their matchup on Saturday, April 22 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Tickets for the closed circuit telecast at the MGM Grand Garden Arena will be available beginning TODAY at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased through AXS.com at: https://www.axs.com/events/480286/davis-vs-garcia-closed-circuit-telecast-tickets?skin=grandgarden

Doors at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, the exclusive CCTV location for fans to watch Davis vs. Garcia on the Las Vegas Strip, will open at 4:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, April 22, with the pay-per-view telecast beginning at 5:00 p.m. PT.

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. GARCIA

Davis vs. Garcia will see undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a long awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Olympic Bronze Medalist Yamaguchi Falcao in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions and the telecast is produced by SHOWTIME PPV.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing, www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/

LAS VEGAS – April 17, 2023 – A limited number of tickets have been opened up for boxing’s biggest event of the year taking place this Saturday, April 22 as undefeated superstar rivals Gervonta “Tank” Davis and “King” Ryan Garcia battle at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a SHOWTIME PPV^® production in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The newly available tickets can be purchased at AXS.com for the highly-anticipated event headlined by two fighters looking to stamp their place as the future face of boxing.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. GARCIA

Davis vs. Garcia will see undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a long-awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Olympic Bronze Medalist Yamaguchi Falcao in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions and the telecast is produced by SHOWTIME PPV.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing, www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/

LAS VEGAS – April 17, 2023 – Undefeated WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. has no concerns about a late change in opponent as he prepares to face Olympic Bronze Medalist Yamaguchi Falcao this Saturday, April 22 in the co-main event of the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia SHOWTIME PPV^® production taking place from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT is headlined by undefeated rivals Gervonta “Tank” Davis and “King” Ryan Garcia in a 12-round showdown.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.

A Cuban-native who came to Minneapolis to begin his pro career in 2019, Morrell (8-0, 7 KOs) has quickly shown off the talents that made him a standout in Cuba’s storied amateur scene. The 25-year-old captured an interim title by dominating then-unbeaten Lennox Allen in August 2020 in just his third pro fight before being elevated to champion.

Morell, who trains in Texas with renowned coach Ronnie Shields, was originally scheduled to face Sena Agbeko, who was forced to withdraw after not being licensed by the Nevada State Athletic Commission. Despite the late change in opponent, Morrell has no concerns about facing an accomplished veteran Falcao. Here is what he had to say about that matchup and more:

On his matchup with Yamaguchi Falcao:

“For most fighters it might be difficult to adjust to a new opponent, especially being that Falcao is a southpaw, but I’ve seen so many styles that I feel confident with anyone that’s across the ring from me. Falcao is on a nice winning streak and I’m sure his confidence is at an all-time high. He knows that winning this fight could change his life dramatically, so I know he’s coming to fight. I have plans to take him out and send another message to the entire super middleweight division. Falcao is a good fighter, but I’m better in all aspects.”

On his recent training camp:

“I’ve been training with a purpose since I got the word that I’ll be fighting on one of the biggest cards of the last ten years. Ronnie Shields and I have been working endlessly to get everything fine-tuned. With all the intense training I’ve been doing, I’m going to be in the best shape of my career. I’m right on weight and I’m feeling great. I had a great training camp.”

On fighting in Las Vegas in his first PPV event:

“As a kid, I would always dream about what it would be like to fight in Las Vegas, and here we are. It’s a tremendous blessing. I’ve worked hard to get to this point in my career and I’m ready to become a star. I want to thank my team for getting me this fight. Davis vs. Garcia is going to be one of the most watched PPV events in modern day history. My goal is to shine on the big stage and steal the show.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“With all the big fights in the super middleweight, winning this fight means everything. If I’m going to fight David Benavidez, Canelo Alvarez, Jermall Charlo or any of the other big names in boxing, I must win this fight. So, everything is on the line on April 22. A win will get me to the biggest fights in the sport.”

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. GARCIA

Davis vs. Garcia will see undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a long-awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Olympic Bronze Medalist Yamaguchi Falcao in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing, www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/

LAS VEGAS – April 14, 2023 – Rising contender Fiodor Czerkaszyn and sensational prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. will compete in separate bouts that highlight the SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN SHOW on Saturday, April 22 leading up to the much-anticipated Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia pay-per-view event taking place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The unbeaten middleweight Czerkaszyn will take on Mexico’s Elias Espadas in a 10-round showdown, while the impressive super welterweight prospect Mielnicki, Jr., faces Mexico’s Jose Charles in a 10-round bout streamed live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing^® Facebook page beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

The show will be hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show co-host Brian Campbell, who will be accompanied by a pair of special guests. Sports broadcaster Kate Abdo, who covers UEFA Champions League for CBS Sports and is a former PBC studio host, and Ariel Helwani, renowned combat sports journalist and SHOWTIME Basketball podcast host, will both join Campbell in what should be a memorable night of streaming.  

These fights lead into a four-fight pay-per-view telecast beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT headlined by undefeated rivals Gervonta “Tank” Davis and “King” Ryan Garcia in a 12-round showdown.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions and the telecast is produced by SHOWTIME PPV.

The 27-year-old Czerkaszyn (21-0, 13 KOs) made a successful stateside debut in August 2022, stopping Gilbert Venegas, Jr., in the fourth-round. He followed that up in his most recent outing, as he won a dominant 10-round unanimous decision over veteran power-puncher Nathaniel Gallimore last November on SHOWTIME. Originally from Ukraine and a citizen of Warsaw, Poland, Czerkaszyn turned pro in 2015 and now owns four 10-round unanimous decisions on his record, hardly losing a round throughout the contests. The 32-year-old Espadas (22-5, 15 KOs) had a five-fight winning streak snapped in his last fight, as he dropped an August 2022 contest to unbeaten prospect Xander Zayas. A native of Merida, Yucatan, Mexico, Espadas has fought professionally since 2012 and has also challenged Olympic^® Bronze Medalist Yamaguchi Falcao.

Representing Roseland, N.J., Mielnicki (14-1, 9 KOs) returns to the ring for the second time this year after stopping Omar Rosales in four rounds in January. The 20-year-old picked up three wins in 2022, earning unanimous decisions over Dan Karpency and Limberth Ponce, plus a stoppage of Jimmy Williams. Mielnicki first turned heads during his exceptional amateur career where he compiled a 147-22 record and was named the Most Outstanding Boxer of the 2011 Junior National Golden Gloves, amongst many accolades before turning pro. Fighting out of Reynosa, Tamaulipas, Mexico, Charles (20-3-1, 12 KOs) will look to start a new winning streak after his four-bout run was halted by former world champion Austin Trout in December 2022. The 29-year-old will be fighting in the U.S. for the third consecutive outing when he steps into the ring on April 22.

The non-televised undercard lineup will feature unbeaten lightweight prospect Floyd Schofield (13-0, 10 KOs) dueling Mexico’s Valentin Leon Jr. (23-1-2, 19 KOs) in a fight scheduled for 10-rounds, plus heavyweight prospect Tristan Kalkreuth (9-1, 7 KOs) in a six-round matchup.

Rounding out the card is middleweight prospect Lorenzo Simpson (12-0, 7 KOs) in a six-round bout against Iowa’s Pachino Hill (8-1-1, 6 KOs), super welterweight prospect Jalil “Major” Hackett (5-0, 4 KOs) battling Jason Phillips (3-3-2) in a four-round fight and bantamweight prospect Cuttino Oliver (2-0, 1 KO) in a four-round attraction facing Mexico’s Roberto Cantu Pena (3-2, 3 KOs).

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. GARCIA

Davis vs. Garcia will see undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a long-awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Ghana’s Sena Agbeko in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing, www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/

LAS VEGAS – April 14, 2023 – Undefeated WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. will now face Olympic Bronze Medalist and slick-boxing Yamaguchi “The Problem” Falcao in the co-main event of the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia SHOWTIME PPV production taking place Saturday, April 22 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Falcao, the most accomplished fighter that Morrell has faced, replaces Ghanaian power-puncher Sena Agbeko, who was originally scheduled to face Morrell but was forced to withdraw after not being licensed by the Nevada State Athletic Commission.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by undefeated rivals Gervonta “Tank” Davis and “King” Ryan Garcia in a 12-round showdown. The pay-per-view will also see Morrell Jr. vs. Falcao in the co-main event over 12 rounds, a rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev, and hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing Mexico’s Kevin Salgado in the pay-per-view opener.

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.

A Cuban-native who came to Minneapolis to begin his pro career in 2019, Morrell (8-0, 7 KOs) has quickly shown off the talents that made him a standout in Cuba’s storied amateur scene. The 25-year-old captured an interim title by dominating then-unbeaten Lennox Allen in August 2020 in just his third pro fight. Morell, who trains in Texas with renowned coach Ronnie Shields, added two dominant knockout victories in 2022 as he stopped Kalvin Henderson in June before a 12th-round TKO of the previously unbeaten Aidos Yerbossynuly in November. 

“Although I have a new opponent, the mission is still the same: seek and destroy,” said Morrell Jr. “I’ve been fighting my whole life. I’ve seen every style and I’m prepared to face anyone that’s in front of me. It’s go time as usual. Don’t miss this fight!”

A 2012 Olympian, Falcao (24-1-1) represents his native Sao Mateus, Espirito Santo, Brazil. The 35-year-old has won eight-straight bouts heading into April 22, including a busy 2022 campaign that saw him earn five victories, including most recently knocking out Ernest Amuzu in December. Falcao’s only loss came via a close decision against Christopher Pearson in May 2019, which immediately preceded a December 2019 draw against super middleweight contender D’Mitrius Ballard.

“They call me ‘The Problem’ and I am coming to show the world that I have the talent and determination to become the WBA Super Middleweight Champion,” said Falcao. “I promise that everyone tuning in will be extremely happy with the show that we put on. I’m coming to win on April 22.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing, www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/.

LAS VEGAS – April 14, 2023 – Undefeated 19-year-old rising middleweight sensation Elijah Garcia will look to move one step closer to achieving his “big dreams” of boxing stardom and becoming one of the future faces of Mexican boxing when he takes on Kevin Salgado in the pay-per-view telecast opener of the highly anticipated Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia SHOWTIME PPV^® production on Saturday, April 22 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

“It’s simple, a victory gets me bigger fights against top level competition,” said Garcia (14-0, 12 KOs). “I know if I keep winning, all the big fights will happen. I have big dreams to become the next big Mexican star in boxing, but I’m going to take it one fight at a time.”

Fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz., Garcia earned a career-best victory in March, blasting out the previously unbeaten Amilcar Vidal in the fourth-round on SHOWTIME^® to announce his presence in the 160-pound division. Now he’ll step up to compete on boxing’s biggest stage, kicking off the pay-per-view telecast leading up to a long-awaited main event.

“Words can’t describe how excited I am,” said Garcia. “I’m only 19 years old, so for me to be fighting on the big stage like this is a testament to my team, and all the hard work we’ve put in. I want to personally thank everyone who made this fight happen. I’m so grateful to everyone involved in my career and my plan is to make everyone proud with a monumental performance on April 22.”

Prior to bursting on the scene in March, Garcia had a busy 2022, racking up four victories, including three knockouts, punctuated by a second-round TKO over Cruse Stewart that streamed live on SHOWTIME SPORTS^® digital platforms. As he prepares for April 22, led by his trainers, father George and grandpa George, Sr., Garcia believes that he’ll step into the ring an improved fighter from his last appearance.

“Everyone will see a better version of me when I step in the ring next week,” said Garcia. “Every day in training camp is another day closer to making my dream of becoming a world champion a reality. I have a long way to go, but I take my training very seriously, because I know how hard it is to get to the top. It’s a family affair with my dad and my grandpa guiding my corner and we’ve been going hard at our gym in Arizona where all the magic is happening.”

Across from him on April 22 will be the veteran Mexico City-native Salgado (15-1-1, 10 KOs), who is the younger brother of former super featherweight world champion Juan Carlos Salgado. Now training in San Antonio, Texas, Salgado most recently earned a knockout in December and according to Garcia will provide his most difficult challenge.

“This will be the toughest fight of my career,” said Garcia. “Salgado has gone ten rounds before and has never been knocked out, so I know he’s got a great chin. My plan is to have my hand raised by any means possible. If the knockout comes, I’ll be happy, but I’m prepared to go the distance if need be.”

The event is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. GARCIA

Davis vs. Garcia will see undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a long-awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Ghana’s Sena Agbeko in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing, www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/

BEVERLY HILLS – April 12, 2023 – Hard-hitting undefeated sensation “King” Ryan Garcia showed off his vaunted power and hand speed during a media workout from a ring overlooking the picturesque San Fernando Valley in Beverly Hills on Tuesday, vowing to “destroy” Gervonta “Tank” Davis ahead of their clash on Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Davis vs. Garcia is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions and the telecast is produced by SHOWTIME PPV.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

Garcia has headlined fights across Los Angeles, Dallas and San Antonio, with fans packing the rafters to watch his meteoric rise. He now steps into the biggest fight of his career and a rare matchup of unbeaten superstars in the prime of their careers. The 24-year-old looked at home on Tuesday as he hit the pads in the ring assembled in the backyard of a mansion owned by reality TV personality and businesswoman Adrienne Maloof.

Here is what Garcia, along with his trainer, the renowned Joe Goossen, and legendary promoter Oscar De La Hoya had to say Tuesday:

Ryan Garcia

“This fight means a lot to me. It means everything. It’s a moment that I’ve been envisioning for so long now. It’s the only thing I’ve wanted for so long, to defeat Gervonta Davis and to destroy him. To end everything that he’s ever worked for, because I know he’s trying to do that for me. I’m going to take him out. He’s done. It’s nap time for Gervonta.

“I’m just going to be focused in the ring, no matter if it’s the first round, second round, third round. Any of the rounds, he can go to sleep. He’s going to have to be careful. That’s what I have to tell him. Be careful. I don’t think he is, and he’s going to walk into one. Or I’m just going to go get him. Either way, I’m going to beat him.

“I’m excited for fight week and I’m going to be even more excited when I’m there. But right now, my thoughts are just, ‘stay focused and do my best during the media workout.’ When I get there, I’m going to love it. Everybody is going to be there. Everybody wanted this fight so I’m expecting good energy and for everybody to be pumped up. Some people are going to think he’s going to win, some people are going to think I’m going to win. I’m just going to win.

“Nobody really trains at these media workouts, so I just thought to make it as cool and as fun as it can be. I know that I’m going to be training at 7 o’clock tonight, so I might as well make a show out of this. Everybody is getting some good food, I’m going to treat the media well and give them the best answers as I can, and that’s it. Make everybody happy.

“This is a huge fight for boxing. It can really change the trajectory of the sport and inspire young fighters to get it on right now. People are going to love you. They’re going to see that you went out there and you fought the best and you gave it your all. Even if you win or even if you lose, you showed them what a champion is in life. You just get right back up and you don’t let negative people that won’t even dare to do anything keep you down because you know where you’re going in life. To me, this is important to everybody that it takes courage to go after something that nobody believed you could do. That’s why I’m standing here today. To make everybody realize that if you’re in there and chase your dream like you’ve never chased anything before, and you’ll see something special happen.

“This is a fight to show everybody that I’m great. I’m not daring to be great. I know I’m great. I know when I step in the ring, he’s going to feel something he’s never felt before. I’m going to conquer him. Everything he tries to do I’ll have an answer for him. Gervonta Davis is not going to beat me. I promise you.

“He’s going to nap time. Nap time can be with either the right or the left. It doesn’t matter. I think he’s just terrified of the left hook. Once he hears that in his dreams, he just starts shaking in his boots. That’s a trigger word for him. Left hook. He just gets terrified of that.

“I feel like people have lost touch with what boxing truly is about. People used to realize that you see how a champion reacts after he gets hit. That’s how you determine what a champion is. People have lost touch with that. It used to be a proud moment where you showed that you can still stay focused in the fight. You can still get back to controlling it and you can still knock somebody out after you get dropped. That should have been the testimony of how much of a champion I truly am in my heart.

“But we live in a world where people expect you to be perfect and they don’t understand that this is real life. We’re really fighting here. But you respond by getting up and going and doing your thing. You show everybody that you’re great. You don’t let those things tear you down and you keep moving forward. I have to show people that I’m destined for this.

“This is going to be my third fight with Joe Goossen and having a guy with so much experience and understanding of the game, I just love being around him. He’s a very intelligent man. I love being around a person that you can just talk to about life in different ways and come to better understandings of both life and boxing. It’s great to have a person like that around me.

“Gervonta says he’s going to take me into deep waters. Guess what, I know how to swim. It’s nothing special. He needs to come up with something better than that. Think a little harder.

“I hope Gervonta has been getting good sleep. If not, he’ll get some good sleep April 22.”

Oscar De La Hoya

“This is the fight to save boxing. Literally. Every decade has its fight to save boxing. This is the fight to save boxing. The reason why it is, is because you have two young guys, two undefeated guys, who are the best of the best, willing to fight each other. You can see and feel the anticipation. The ticket sales is a great indication that the pay-per-view is going to be huge. This is the fight of the year.

“With a win, Ryan doesn’t become this generation’s Oscar De La Hoya. He becomes this generation’s Ryan Garcia. Even before he was a superstar, I’ve always said that Ryan Garcia can become even bigger than Canelo. Even bigger than Oscar De La Hoya. Bigger than whoever. Because we’re living in a time where media is everything. Media has brought the world together. The world is going to be watching on April 22. It’s going to shatter pay-per-view records and numbers. It’s going to do a huge amount of buys. We’re living in a time where social media is bringing the world together. The word is spreading so fast on this fight. It’s catching fire. Come April 22, it’s going to be fireworks and the biggest event in sports.

“I’ve given little tips to Ryan here and there on how to deal with an event of this magnitude. Being involved in events like these inside the ring myself, I can share with Ryan what he’s going to feel come fight week. What he’s going to feel after he weighs in. What he’s going to feel as he’s walking down the tunnel into the ring. It’s no secret that I’ve been there. He’s always open to listening and taking the advice. It can only help. Having a promoter like myself and Bernard Hopkins, another legendary fighter, is obviously a plus for any fighter.

“If Ryan only has a left hook, then he does. We’re going to see with Ryan on April 22. We don’t know. It’s going to be something special. If they are relying on Ryan’s left hook, then so be it. I don’t know exactly what he’s going to do, but it’s going to be special.

“I told Ryan the other day, ‘I can see it in your eyes. There’s something in your eyes that tells me you’re going to do something special.’ There’s fighters in each generation that are chosen, and Ryan is the chosen one for this generation.

“I love ‘Tank.’ I love the way he carries himself. I love the way he works hard. I love the way he comes out and fights and knocks his opponents out. I love his demeanor and his work ethic. There’s nothing bad that I can say about Gervonta. I have to respect him. But he’s going up against my guy, so obviously I have Ryan.”

Joe Goossen

“Ryan may have carved out one of the top spots of fighters I’ve trained in my career. He’s a very unique individual to start with. Like I always say there’s a certain amount of boxes you check for each fighter. They are all checked for him – from the bottom to the top. He’s got the speed, he’s got the power, he’s got the reach, he’s got the height. What a work ethic. He’s so self-driven and self-motivated. You wonder, ‘Could this really be true?’

“He looks like a star. He carries himself like a star. I just think Ryan is one of the top three of my all-time favorite fighters ever. But I think after this fight on the 22^nd he’ll occupy the No. 1 spot.

“What can fans expect? They can expect the unexpected. Ryan is one of the best out there. Tank is one of the best out there. This is what makes great fights – the unknown. And people are on one side or the other. They both have great qualities. We’ve really trained to do one thing and that’s to win this fight. We’re not going to go to Las Vegas with any other thought in our head than to win the fight and I’m sure the other side has the same ideas.”

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. GARCIA

Davis vs. Garcia will see undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a long awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Ghana’s Sena Agbeko in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing, www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/

LAS VEGAS – April 7, 2023 – Undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis held a media workout in Las Vegas Thursday ahead of his long awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Davis vs. Garcia is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions and the telecast is produced by SHOWTIME PPV.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

Davis will headline a pay-per-view telecast beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT as he faces Garcia in a rare matchup of unbeaten superstars in the primes of their careers. Davis has established himself as one of boxing’s hottest, must-see attractions, selling out arenas in Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta and most recently, Washington D.C., and with a victory on April 22, can solidify himself as the future face of boxing.

Here is what Davis and his longtime trainer Calvin Ford had to say Thursday from Barry’s Boxing Gym in Las Vegas:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“Make sure you come early and get your popcorn or whatever you want to get, because this is gonna be an early night for sure.

“I’m feeling great. Everything is about staying completely focused on the task, because I know I have a challenge in front of me on April 22.

“Me and coach Calvin have been doing this for so long, he’s a major key to my success over the years. I’d be nowhere without him, so I always keep him close to me.

“Ryan is gonna have to show me that he has more than just a left hook. I’m gonna be on point that night because I’m getting ready for the best Ryan Garcia. I just don’t feel that he’s a complete fighter and come April 22 I’m gonna show him.

“This win would mean a lot. Beating someone young, explosive and in their prime says a lot. I feel like this fight is big for the sport. We’re drawing in a lot of people and a win on that night is really like winning a world title again.

“This is gonna be spectacular. It’s gonna be two young guys who are hungry. You gotta tune in or be here in Las Vegas.

“I think he’s trying to hype himself to get into the fight when he talks about knocking me out in two rounds. I don’t think he really believes that.

“Representing Baltimore means a lot to me. I’m doing it for the people who are just like me. I’m trying to give them hope. No matter what you’ve been going through, the future is bright.”

CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer

“’Tank’ just needs to listen and do what he’s been doing all along. I’ve seen the journey to here a long time ago. That night is his night. We’ll walk through that fire or that desert or whatever we have to walk through.

“I’m still looking for that fighter to bring the best out of ‘Tank’. No one has seen the best out of him yet. Coaches that have been around us for years know that people haven’t seen all that he can do.

“I don’t train ‘Tank’ for knockouts, I train him for punishment. Hector Luis Garcia got a glimpse of it in the last fight. I want him to punish Ryan.

“I wouldn’t say the Mario Barrios fight is the example of how ‘Tank’ fights a taller fighter like Ryan Garcia, because each fighter fights differently. He was able to handle what Barrios wanted to do, but we’ll see if that’s how Ryan wants to fight. Whatever you want to bring, you better come bring it.

“He’s taking pages out from some of the greatest in the sport. We’ve got a lot of different people coaching different parts of his game and everyone is doing their part.”

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ABOUT DAVIS VS. GARCIA

Davis vs. Garcia will see undefeated five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a long awaited clash against hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia taking place Saturday, April 22 headlining live on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Ghana’s Sena Agbeko in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing, www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/

LAS VEGAS – April 3, 2023 – Three intriguing pay-per-view matchups featuring knockout artists and rising stars will precede three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis’ 12-round super fight with hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia in a SHOWTIME PPV production on Saturday, April 22 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view telecast will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features Cuban star and WBA Super Middleweight Champion David Morrell Jr. battling Ghana’s Sena Agbeko in the co-main event. The action will also see an eagerly anticipated rematch between super middleweight sluggers Gabriel Rosado and Bektemir Melikuziev in a 10-round showdown. Kicking off the telecast will be hard-hitting 19-year-old middleweight Elijah Garcia facing rugged Kevin Salgado of Mexico in a 10-round showdown.

Davis vs. Garcia is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions. The telecast is being produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV and will be available across pay-per-view providers including DAZN PPV.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through www.axs.com. 

A Cuban-native who came to Minneapolis to begin his pro career in 2019, Morrell (8-0, 7 KOs) has quickly shown off the talents that made him a standout in Cuba’s storied amateur scene . The 25-year-old captured an interim title by dominating then-unbeaten Lennox Allen in August 2020 in just his third pro fight. Morell, who trains in Texas with renowned coach Ronnie Shields, added two dominant knockout victories in 2022 as he stopped Kalvin Henderson in June before a 12th-round TKO of the previously unbeaten Aidos Yerbossynuly in November. 

“I’m very excited to be the co-main event of this incredible night for boxing,” said Morrell. “’Tank’ Davis is one of the sport’s biggest superstars and my aspiration is to one day be on the Mount Rushmore of boxing next to him. On April 22 I’m going to dispatch my opponent in sensational fashion. And after this fight I want the ‘Mexican Monster’ David Benavidez, but first I have to get past a tough and very capable opponent in Agbeko. I intend to take care of my business on April 22 and then look forward to taking on David Benavidez in a fight that the fans want to see.” 

Originally from Ghana and now fighting out of Nashville, Tennessee, Agbeko (27-2, 21 KOs) enters this fight having won his last four contests and 12 of his last 13. The 31-year-old won three times in 2022, including most recently earning a unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Isaiah Steen last October on SHOBOX: The New Generation^®. The only blemish on Agbeko’s record since 2014 is a decision loss in 2021 against top 168-pound contender Vladimir Shishkin.

“I’m very thankful to my entire team for this incredible opportunity to fight for the title,” said Agbeko. “This is a stern test against one of the best super middleweights in the world in the co-main event of the biggest fight of the year. This is an opportunity that I relish greatly and is exactly how I envisioned winning the belt. I’ve had a long journey to get to this point, but I’ve always trained like a guy with a target on my back. I want to win the belt and be the fighter that everyone is going after. I have a great team behind me and I can’t wait to properly introduce myself to the boxing world on April 22.”

Having faced a deep and extensive list of champions and top fighters throughout his career, the always exciting Rosado (26-16, 15 KOs) will look to repeat his 2021 highlight-reel KO against Melikuziev in one of the year’s biggest surprises when they meet on April 22. The Philadelphia native has gone toe-to-toe with current and former champions Jermell Charlo, Gennadiy Golovkin, Peter Quillin, David Lemieux, Joshua Clottey, Daniel Jacobs and Jaime Munguia in a pro career that dates back to 2006.

“It was tough having the fight against ‘Zurdo’ canceled, but now it’s me versus Bek on the biggest fight card of the year,” said Rosado. “I’m focused and ready to put Bek back in check. I look forward to being part of a historical fight card, and I plan on dominating ‘The Bully’ once again!”

The 26-year-old Melikuziev (11-1, 9 KOs) heads into April 22 seeking revenge from his 2021 defeat to Rosado and to extend his winning streak to five. Originally hailing from Uzbekistan and now residing in Indio, California, Melikuziev turned pro in 2019 after an impressive amateur career that included gold medals in the 2015 and 2017 Asian Championships. Melikuziev had knocked out six of his first seven pro opponents before running into Rosado’s right hand.

“This is the fight I wanted and the most important fight for me today,” said Melikuziev. “This is the fight to right the wrong. I am so lucky to make it on the biggest card of the year. I want to thank my team, my promoter, and of course, Rosado, for giving me this opportunity.”

Fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, Garcia (14-0, 12 KOs) earned a career-best victory in March, blasting out the previously unbeaten Amilcar Vidal in the fourth-round on SHOWTIME^® to announce his presence at 160-pounds. The 19-year-old had previously put together a four-win 2022 campaign capped by a second round KO of Cruse Stewart that streamed live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS^® YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing^® Facebook page. The precocious Garcia has moved fast since turning pro in 2020 and has knocked out six of his last seven opponents.

“I’m thrilled to be part of this major pay-per-view event and I’m excited for the opportunity,” said Garcia. “After my last fight, I’ve been in the gym waiting for the time to showcase my skills yet again. I’m planning on putting on a great performance against Salgado on April 22. The main event is a great fight and ‘Tank’ is a beast, and Ryan is undefeated and talented and will be a tough test. But make sure you don’t miss my fight, because it’s going to be a Mexican war for all of the fans.”

A native of Mexico City, Salgado (15-1-1, 10 KOs) is the younger brother of former super featherweight champion Juan Carlos Salgado and now fights out of San Antonio, Texas. The 25-year-old turned pro in late 2016 and delivered knockouts in six of his first nine outings. After scoring three-straight knockouts between September 2019 and February 2021, Salgado returned to the ring in October 2021 to defeat Ricardo Banuelos Cernas by unanimous decision before fighting Bryant Perrella to a split-draw in his U.S. debut in April. Salgado bounced back from a September 2022 defeat to Joey Spencer by knocking out Gilberto Flores in the first round of their December 2022 clash.

“I know that I’m facing a good opponent, but I’m ready to surprise the boxing world,” said Salgado. “This is a great opportunity for me. I’m grateful to be in this position and I’m coming to take full advantage of it. I’m feeling strong in training camp and I’ll be ready to test Garcia and see where he stacks up.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing, www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/

By Norm Frauenheim –

They went coast-to-coast. They trash-talked, face-to-face, at midday in New York on Wednesday and after lunch on Thursday in Los Angeles. They postured, preached and promised.

But, mostly, Tank Davis and Ryan Garcia kept us waiting. The NY version of the coast-to-coast newser was about two hours late. Something about Davis getting caught in traffic.

The sequel, an LA matinee, started about an hour after it was scheduled to begin. On BST – Boxing Standard Time, late starts are like low blows. Count on them.

In any time zone, however, boxing news conferences are all about theater. The bigger the fight, the bigger the stage. And Davis-Garcia is a biggie, at least it is in a market that has left its eroding fan base starving for something relevant – something real – in the wake of collapsed negotiations for Terence Crawford-Errol Spence.

Enter Davis-Garcia, which has moved into the vacuum with a fight loaded with dynamic potential. But, like the news conferences, we’ll just have to wait and see how it all plays out on April 22, the scheduled opening bell for their 136-pound bout at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena on Showtime pay-per-view.

For now, it’s a show like full of familiar hyperbole, stunts and proclamations. Believe at your own risk. The common theme has been that Davis-Garcia represents another new beginning for a sport that always seems to be starting over. Davis is 28; Garcia 24.

“You all keep saying boxing is dead,’’ Davis trainer Bob Ford said Thursday “Naaah, the young-ins is coming.’’

The Youngblood plot line is compelling. I hope it’s right. I wrote a New Year’s column for 15 Rounds in January, saying it was time for a new generation. Depending on who’s doing the talking, it’s already here.

“Whoever wins this is on top, the face of boxing,’’ Garcia said Thursday. “I truly believe that.’’

Davis, never shy or short on confidence, believes he’s already that face. Move over, Canelo Alvarez. Hand over that pound-for pound crown, Terence Crawford

 “I’m already in that position,’’ Davis said matter-of-factly Thursday. “Canelo, he’s already out the door. I’m the face of the sport.’’

As I heard Davis declare his supremacy, I kept hearing that automated message you get after pushing the button for the crosswalk signal at a busy intersection. Wait, wait, wait.

If Davis-Garcia lives up to the hype, it will herald that the new is moving in and the old is moving out. The 26-year-old David Benavidez has a chance to kick in the door a few weeks earlier in a super-middleweight bout against Caleb Plant on March 25 at Vegas’ MGM Grand.

At best, Davis and Garcia could motivate Crawford and Spence to do what they wouldn’t late last year. Rights to pound-for-pound supremacy are won and retained only in the ring, a piece of real estate they have been unwilling to share thus far.

Davis and Garcia have agreed to do what they won’t. Maybe that changes their minds.

Maybe.

The waiting game continues, however, until we see Davis (28-0, 26 KOs) and Garcia (23-0, 19 KOs) walk down the aisle, up the steps and through the ropes. Only the sound of an opening bell ends the waiting.

There’s nothing new about late arrivals for news conferences. They are a well-rehearsed part of the show. In New York, however, Davis sent off some alarm bells that have been there before and after the date with Garcia was a done deal.

Davis is often compared to Mike Tyson because of his dramatic punching power. But another Tyson parallel is trouble outside of the ring. Like Tyson, you get the sense you’re watching an accident about to happen.

The Davis-Garcia fight is happening on April 22, because Davis won’t be sentenced on a Baltimore hit-and-run until May 5. He also was arrested on Dec. 27 on a domestic-abuse charge in Broward County, Fla. His accuser later retracted the allegation.

When he’s nearly two hours late for a newser, you wonder. Fans wonder.

But they wait, too.

There’s evident enthusiasm for Davis-Garcia  

In terms of experience, power and proven skillset, Davis figures to beat Garcia. Yet, Garcia’s abundant poise and smarts suggest he’ll be more of a threat to Davis than the odds might suggest. Davis is a narrow favorite.

After the staged part of the New York newser, Garcia talked to a group of reporters and questioned Davis’ ability to fight through adversity.

“When Tank gets into trouble, he takes the easy way out,’’ Garcia said in a comment captured on video.

Whether Garcia has enough in his skillset to prevail, however, is there. He’s known for his speed and a huge left hook.

But, Davis wonders, is that all there is?

“He’s going to hit me with that hook, because that’s all he’s got,’’ Davis said as he looked over at Garcia Thursday. “A left hook. What else? That’s all you got. You’re not a complete fighter.

“What happens when that one punch don’t work?’’

We’ll have to wait for an answer to that question. And a few more.

LOS ANGELES – March 9, 2023 – Undefeated boxing superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and “King” Ryan Garcia squared off for the second straight day on Thursday, this time in Los Angeles as they completed back-to-back, coast-to-coast press conferences to preview their highly anticipated 12-round showdown that headlines a SHOWTIME PPV production on Saturday, April 22 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Davis vs. Garcia is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions. 

Tickets for the live event go on sale Friday, March 10 at 10 a.m. PT and will be available through www.axs.com. 

Pre-sale tickets are available NOW until 10 p.m. PT today with the code: BOXING

After an animated face off at Wednesday’s event in New York, Davis and Garcia got up close and personal again on Thursday in Los Angeles, exchanging heated words and more, with Davis playfully throwing a left hook that whizzed inches from Garcia’s chin and Garcia shadowboxing in close proximity to Davis during the ceremonial stare down. Here is what the press conference participants had to say from The Beverly Hilton:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“Come April 22, I’m gonna walk you to the deep waters and I’m gonna drown you. They gonna have to pick you up. I promise you that.

“This guy keeps talking about how he’s gonna hit me with a hook, but he doesn’t have anything else but a hook. What else have you got? He’s not a complete fighter.

“When you’re a complete fighter, you can do everything. You can’t just depend on one punch. What happens when that punch doesn’t work? You have to rely on something else.

“I feel as though I’m already that top guy in the sport. This fight is just about me getting over the hump.

“This is gonna be an explosive fight. If you don’t watch boxing, this is the fight to watch for sure. If you can get there, make sure you’re there. If you can’t be there, buy the pay-per-view. Because this is gonna be a good one for me.

“He’s putting on a front for the people. That’s what I see. I see a guy who’s an act. That’s what it is.

“Didn’t Ryan get caught by Luke Campbell? Do I hit way harder than Luke Campbell? Yes or no?

“I’ve put a lot of guys to sleep and Ryan is next.”

RYAN GARCIA

“I’m here to win and I promise you that I have heart and determination like you’ve never seen before. ‘Tank’ likes to fight guys that don’t hit hard, but I hit hard. When I hit you with that left hook, you’re gonna be on the floor. Asleep. Good night.

“This is such a big event, but I know that I’m coming out on top. It’s one thing to get to the moment, but it’s another to conquer the moment. So I’m not just happy that we’re here, now I’m focused on winning.

“I’m just going to let him think what he thinks. If he thinks all I have is the left hook, then he’s going to run into other shots and be confused. If he had watched any of my fights he’d know what else I have.

“He’s going to try to walk me down, but when he feels shots like this, he’s not going to want to do that. I’m going to hit him to the body and take the aggression out of him. I have a lot of ways to stop him.

“I’m not here to lie, he’s ready to fight. He wants to bring it. He doesn’t look scared, but I’m ready to fight too. We both have fire in our eyes.

“Don’t be mad that my left hook is blessed. Maybe that’s all I need. Maybe that’s all it’s gonna take.

“Nobody else could put together this type of event. Whoever wins this is on top. Whoever wins is the face of boxing and I truly believe that.

“I’m gonna beat him and I’m gonna knock him out. See you on April 22.”

CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer

“We have two of the best young undefeated guys going at it April 22. You have to be in front of the TV or there in person. They’re going to put on a show.

“Everyone knows what ‘Tank’ is gonna do, because he does it for the fans. You haven’t seen the best of Gervonta Davis yet. Is Ryan ready to bring it out of him?

“These two guys are showing you how boxing is supposed to be. The young ones are coming and this is the start right here.”

JOE GOOSSEN, Garcia’s Trainer

“These are two great guys and they’re going to have it out on April 22. These guys both have an unusual level of talent. I’ve trained a lot of guys over the decades, and Ryan Garcia is one of the most unique individuals I’ve trained, in many ways. He’s one of the most dynamic guys I’ve ever worked with in terms of speed, power, ring IQ, determination and courage.

“This is going to be a great fight. I think both camps realize that each of these guys are at the top of their game and they’re going to put on a great show for the fans. I can’t wait until it’s time to get into the ring and see who’s the best in the world.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“I want to thank everyone who came together to make this fight happen, and we all know who really made this fight happen, and that’s ‘Tank’ and Ryan. We have a hell of a show and we can’t wait to see ‘Tank’ and Ryan do their thing in the ring on April 22.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, Boxing Promoter

“This is a monster event on April 22. This is must-see. If you can’t be in attendance, be sure to tune in on pay-per-view, because I guarantee you from round one on, it’s going to be nothing but fireworks. This one is ending in a knockout.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions

“This is where legacies start for both fighters. Both fighters are facing someone who’s undefeated and someone who’s at the peak of their career. This is a whole new level and a whole new experience coming out to that ring fighting somebody undefeated with your skill level and your will and your determination. This is what boxing is all about.

“I want to thank Ryan Garcia for wanting this fight for years. Boxing is alive, and the winner will be the face of the sport. So may the best man win.”

BERNARD HOPKINS, Golden Boy Promotions Partner

“This fight reminds me of the big fights we had in the 80’s and early 90’s. I come from a city called Philadelphia and this is what we do and who we like.” 

“Around the world, the fans have been craving this fight. So tell all your friends, even the ones you don’t like, to watch this fight.” 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, SHOWTIME SPORTS

“These are the types of days and events that remind us all why we got into this sport and why we are fans of this sport.

“I guarantee you with all the experience and all the events these guys on this stage have been through, including myself, each one of us has goosebumps right now because of the energy and adrenaline of nights like this. This is something that only boxing can provide.

“This is a throwback fight. It’s a fight and a rivalry as big as any in this sport. This is exactly the kind of fight that reflects the best that this sport has to offer: two young fighters in their prime, who are the two most exciting young fighters in the sport.

“Outside of the ring, the stories are even better. As different as these two fighters are physically, their personalities and their styles, they are very alike in one way. What these two young men have overcome, the obstacles they have conquered is the stuff of Hollywood movies.

“Mike Tyson once said, ‘You never lose until you give up.’ Giving up is the one thing that neither of these two fighters have done. That’s why I know April 22 will be a classic fight, because these two superstar fighters are willing to take that challenge.” 

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing, www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/

NEW YORK – March 8, 2023 – Undefeated boxing superstars Gervonta “Tank” Davis and “King” Ryan Garcia went face to face for the first time at a press conference in New York on Wednesday as they previewed their highly anticipated 12-round showdown that headlines a pay-per-view event on Saturday, April 22 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The telecast is being produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV and will be available across pay-per-view providers including DAZN PPV.

Davis vs. Garcia is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.  

Tickets for the live event go on sale Friday, March 10 at 10 a.m. PT and will be available through www.axs.com.  

Pre-sale tickets will be available TOMORROW, Thursday, March 9 from 10 a.m. PT to 10 p.m. PT with the code: BOXING

In a rare matchup of unbeaten superstars in the primes of their careers, Davis vs. Garcia is set up to be a crossover event that captures the sporting world’s imagination. With contrasting, colorful personalities and aggressive, dynamic styles in the ring that translate to highlight-reel knockouts, April 22 projects to be the must-see boxing event of the year.     

Davis and Garcia squared off for a long and animated face-off at the conclusion of the press conference, offering a glimpse of the intensity on deck for fight night. Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday from Palladium Times Square:

GERVONTA DAVIS

“We’re back at it. This time we got another dance partner. I know that it’s going to be tough. This fight is definitely going to be tough. But this is what we came to do. We want the big fights.

“I’ve been boxing since I was seven. I fought a lot coming up. I’m just happy to be a part of this moment and share the ring with a young fighter like Ryan Garcia who’s daring himself to be great. He talked his way into this fight. April 22 he’s going to have to show it.

“I’m coming from Baltimore and a lot of people don’t make it from there. I’m just happy to be a part of this event. I couldn’t have done this by myself. I had a great team that got me here.

“We’ve stayed focused and kept our head down and continued to grind. That’s what really matters.

“I think this is important because we’re both young. Both of us are at our peak. A lot of young fighters don’t fight each other. We both made our name coming up and the time is now. We’re both great fighters and we put it all on the line.

“All I have to do is keep working and beat whoever they put in front of me. That starts with Ryan Garcia.

“My strategy is going to depend on what he brings that night. Whether he’s coming fast or slow, I always want to take my time. It all depends on what he brings.

“This is going to be an explosive fight. It’s two young guys who are hungry. It’s all about who wants it more. Whoever is really built like that, that’s who’s going to win. Nobody can fight for him. It’s about who’s got that dog in them.”

RYAN GARCIA

“This is a fight that I’ve been wanting for a very long time. To be a champion, you have to beat the best. It’s not about the titles, it’s about who you beat. It’s a testimony to the respect I have for Gervonta as a fighter.

“I want to be the best. During this whole journey, I put boxing first and the fans first. I had to accept a lot of stipulations, but my power comes from within and from above. My strength comes from my heart.

“We really came together and conquered the poison that’s been stopping boxing from making the biggest fights. We found a way.

“April 22 is the time where the words won’t matter anymore. The truth will come out. We’re both great fighters and we’ll settle it in the ring.

“If you look at boxing, it’s been hard to get prime fighters together. It usually happens too late. This is a moment that boxing has been longing for. You really can’t make a bigger fight than this.

“This is a defining moment in our careers. This is about legacy. This is about who really wants the crown.

“’Tank’ has the image of a devastating puncher. He’s a great fighter. I’ll know within myself what type of fighter I am after this fight. This is what I’ve always wanted.

“I just didn’t want to take the risk of an interim fight before this one. There are a lot of little things that can happen. I didn’t wait this long to mess it up at the finish line.

“I’m going to be ready for 12 rounds. You have to respect your opponent. You can’t just jump in to get a knockout. It might be more of a mental fight than people might believe. Different opponents make you approach fights in different ways.”

CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer

“These two are bringing boxing back. You’re going to feel this energy. These are two great fighters. Y’all made it happen.

“This fight is about the next generation of boxing to come. I can’t wait for the night to be on this new level. After this fight, who’s going to be sitting on this throne? It’s a passing of the torch.

“We’ve been waiting for something like this for years. This is the fight that’s going to make the other fighters actually fight. This is how it’s done.

“Y’all ain’t seen nothing yet. The best is yet to come. I really can’t wait. We’re ready. Let’s do it.”

JOE GOOSSEN, Garcia’s Trainer

“What a great event this is going to be. When you get the two fighters together, it becomes real. We’ve both been training, but I think after this press conference, you get a renewed invigoration.

“We know it’s going to be a tough fight. Ryan is a great fighter and I know that you’re both going to put on a great show.

“These two men are going to go down in history. This is an incredible pairing that you don’t see too often. This is a pay-per-view that I would not miss. Because it’s going to be that exciting. We have two of the best fighters of this era sitting down at this table and I just can’t wait.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“It’s happening. This highly anticipated super fight, which the fans have been begging for, is happening April 22 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Make no mistake, this is a super fight. It’s one of the biggest that boxing has to offer.

“It’s not often in today’s game that we see two fighters in their prime, both undefeated and both powerful knockout punchers, colliding in their primes.

“This is boxing at its best. It wasn’t ordered. It’s the case of the two best fighters in the division making this happen.

“Any fight with ‘Tank’ equates to big business and financial success. He’s broken records everywhere he’s fought and it’s made him one of boxing’s biggest stars. He’s one of the most explosive and dangerous fighters in the world.”  

LEONARD ELLERBE, Boxing Promoter

“This is two undefeated guys coming together and it’s going to be nothing but fireworks. You have to give all the credit to the two fighters. It’s not about the promoters, it’s about Ryan forcing this fight.

“This is by far the biggest fight in the entire sport. I recall that a couple of years ago when I was in Miami, Ryan approached me and said I want to ‘eff your boy up’. That’s the only fight that he wanted.

“’Tank’ Davis is going to go out there and show you why he’s one of the best fighters in the world.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions

“This is a mega-fight. That phrase gets thrown around a lot. How often do you get two guys who are undefeated, with huge fan bases and who are early in the peak of their career?

“This is bringing the best two fighters in their weight division in the same ring. We’re all working together to make this big mega-fight. It almost never happens, but this is one that the world is not going to miss.

“We’re going to bring back the glory days because of Ryan Garcia. April 22 these two fighters are going to battle it out. I’m not going to fight for them. They have to do the job themselves.

“These two wanted this fight. Ryan Garcia wanted this fight years ago and now it’s here. May the best man win. I have a lot of respect for ‘Tank’. He’s a special fighter, but Ryan Garcia is special as well.”

BERNARD HOPKINS, Golden Boy Promotions Partner

“This is one of those fights that we didn’t see except for once or twice a year in the 1980s or 1990s. This fight has the ingredients. These two fighters will be future Hall of Famers. This is the biggest fight of this year. We should all treat it that way.

“Tell everyone who aren’t fight fans to tune in to this one. This is going to be a fight that hooks them and makes them stay in the sweet science.

“Don’t ask me who is going to win, because you know which side I am on.” 

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, SHOWTIME SPORTS

“’Tank’ Davis and Ryan Garcia are two fighters in the core social media demographic who are legitimate fighters with huge fan bases. This is a social media promotion. These guys don’t get the credit they deserve for being skilled boxers. They are obviously bringing in fans beyond the core base. They are brands.

“We have two very different fan bases geographically who both travel. Ryan’s fan base is really strong in Southern California, the Southwest, and among the Mexican-American community. ‘Tank’s’ core is the East Coast, although he has obviously done well across the country. We have two very engaged fan bases, and two very different fighters.

“This fight is the rising tide that lifts all boats. There is an enthusiasm that permeates everything else. It elevates the level of action.

“This fight is one of the cornerstones of our very ambitious 2023 schedule. It’s a battle of the two most popular young fighters in the sport, two fighters in their athletic prime and two of the most exciting fighters in any weight division. Put that together and you have the biggest fight that is on the boxing schedule.

“When a fight this big gets made, there is no shortage of people rushing to take credit. ‘Tank’ Davis and Ryan Garcia deserve the credit for this fantastic event. Throughout the long negotiating process, they never wavered. They remained focused, refused to take the easy way out and take other opportunities, and delivered what the sport and the fans wanted.” 

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com and goldenboypromotions.com, follow #DavisGarcia, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions and @GoldenBoyBoxing, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotionss and @GoldenBoy or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing, www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/ and www.Facebook.com/goldenboy/

LAS VEGAS – March 8, 2023 – The battle to become the future face of boxing is set, as five-time, three-division world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis takes on hard-hitting sensation “King” Ryan Garcia in a highly anticipated 12-round showdown headlining a pay-per-view event on Saturday, April 22 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The telecast is being produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV and will be available across pay-per-view providers including DAZN PPV.

Davis has established himself as one of boxing’s hottest, must-see attractions, selling out arenas in Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta and most recently, Washington D.C., while Garcia headlined fights across Los Angeles, Dallas and San Antonio, with fans packing the rafters to watch his meteoric rise in person. Backed by two passionate, divergent fanbases, the April 22 winner will be primed to make their claim as the sport’s biggest star attraction.

In a rare matchup of unbeaten superstars in the primes of their careers, Davis vs. Garcia is set up to be a crossover event that captures the sporting world’s imagination. With contrasting, colorful personalities and aggressive, dynamic styles in the ring that translate to highlight-reel knockouts, April 22 projects to be the must-see boxing event of the year.   

Davis vs. Garcia is promoted by GTD Promotions, TGB Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.  

Tickets for the live event go on sale Friday, March 10 at 10 a.m. PT and will be available through www.axs.com.  

Pre-sale tickets will be available TOMORROW, Thursday, March 9 from 10 a.m. PT to 10 p.m. PT with the code: BOXING

“Gervonta Davis and Ryan Garcia have taken the boxing world by storm, attracting legions of fans with their thrilling performances and rapidly becoming ‘can’t miss’ attractions,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “On April 22, the two biggest young stars of boxing – both in the prime of their careers – will face each other in the most highly anticipated fight of the year. When the bell rings to start the first round, it will be a ‘where were you’ type moment that boxing fans will be talking about for years to come.”

“Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia is a true fight that will transcend the sport,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Gervonta Davis has proven his star power from coast-to-coast and will now step into a mega-fight with the chance to stake his claim as the future of the sport. This is one of boxing’s biggest events of the last several years and will only grow in intrigue as we near April 22 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and live on pay-per-view.”

“This fight is boxing the way it should be – two superstars at the peak of their powers squaring off in the ring to see who is truly the best of the best,” said Oscar De La Hoya. “Both Ryan and ‘Tank’ are at the top of the world when it comes to speed, power and skill. This will come down to who wants it more, and it is for that reason that I strongly believe Ryan will come out on top.”

Davis (28-0, 26 KOs) holds the WBA Lightweight Title, and has also won world titles at 130 and 140 pounds during his spectacular career. The Baltimore-native set a new gate record for Capital One Arena in January to see him stop the previously unbeaten 130-pound world champion Hector Luis Garcia in the ninth round.

Prior to that fight, Davis added another highlight-reel KO to his resume, as he dispatched longtime rival Rolando Romero with a thudding left hand in February 2022, in another record-setting event at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. The 28-year-old also owns the distinction as the only fighter to stop former three-division champion Leo Santa Cruz and former 140-pound champion Mario Barrios. Davis burst onto the scene with an explosive knockout of Jose Pedraza in 2017 to capture his first world title and won the lightweight strap he currently holds with a 12^th-round KO of former unified champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in 2019. This bout marks Davis’ sixth-straight headlining appearance on SHOWTIME PPV.

“I’m excited for this fight and I appreciate Ryan stepping up to the plate and helping make this happen,” said Davis. “This is one of those fights that everyone has been talking about for a few years now. I know I’m going to be ready to put on a show. Make sure you buy the pay-per-view or come out to Las Vegas and witness a historic fight between two of the biggest names in boxing. Thank you to all my fans and everyone that continues to support me. I’m fighting for all of you on April 22!”

The 24-year-old Garcia (23-0, 19 KOs) has used his skills and Hollywood-persona to establish a huge fan base, backing it up in the ring with a perfect record, including knockouts in six of his last seven contests. Most recently, Garcia delivered a sixth-round knockout over former champion Javier Fortuna in July 2022 in front of a packed, star-studded audience at Los Angeles’ famed Crypto.com Arena.

Born in Victorville, California and now residing in Los Angeles, Garcia has entered the ring for his last two fights under the guidance of legendary trainer Joe Goossen. ESPN’s Prospect of the Year in 2017, Garcia established himself as a lightweight contender by rising off the canvas to stop Olympic gold medalist Luke Campbell in the seventh round of their 2021 clash that saw Garcia walk away with the Interim WBC Lightweight Title.

“This is the super fight of the year,” said Garcia. “Boxing needs to return to the best fighting the best, and I’m bringing back that hype, that glamor, and a new generation of fans to this beautiful sport. Tank is shorter than me, slower than me, older than me, and he knows it. He’s been ducking me for months, but now he’s all out of excuses. It’s time for him to get knocked out.”

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By Norm Frauenheim –

Reports of a Ryan Garcia-Gervonta Davis agreement Thursday is a sign that boxing still has a pulse.

It’s faint. But it’s there, a sign of life after boxing’s obituary was written all over again in the wake of any chance that Terence Crawford-versus-Errol Spence Jr. happens before they’re eligible for senior-citizen discounts.

But don’t set aside some grocery money for the pay-per-view just yet. The misleading speculation and reports about the Crawford-Spence negotiations are a reminder not to count on any bout until the fighters are gloved up, in the ring and you hear the opening bell.

There are still some loose ends. Davis has to win and emerge without injury from a reported tune-up on Jan. 7.  He also faces 14 traffic charges in Baltimore for an alleged hit-and-run two years ago in a trial now scheduled for Feb. 16.

There’s still no date, although mid-April is said to be the target for a bout expected to be at a catch-weight, 136 pounds.

It’s not Crawford-Spence, but it’s a good one against a couple of compelling fighters, both unbeaten and each in their prime. Davis (27-0, 25 KOs) is 28; Garcia (23-0, 19 KOs) is 24. What could go wrong? Stupid question. This is boxing.

If it happens, it sets up what could be a good couple of months, a welcome stretch with real fights instead of more social-media trash from Crawford and Spence.

David Benavidez and Caleb Plant have an agreement for a 168-pound fight. The WBC (World Boxing Council) has designated it as a title eliminator, meaning that the winner is supposed to get a so-called mandatory shot at the belt held by Canelo Alvarez.

But It’s not clear what Canelo will do. He just underwent wrist surgery. It’ll be awhile before he hits a tee-shot or a heavy bag. Promoter Eddie Hearn said he might be healthy enough to fight in May. But that date figures to be a tune-up.

If the wrist holds up, would Canelo move on to a rematch with Dmitry Bivol, the light-heavyweight champion?  Bivol beat him easily last May. There’s a prevailing opinion that Canelo simply can’t beat Bivol at 175 pounds, 168 or any other weight.

Would he then turn to Benavidez instead? Canelo is dismissive of Benavidez, the Phoenix-born fighter whose father-and-trainer Jose Benavidez Sr. is planning to return to his son’s hometown. They’ve been living and training in Seattle.

Canelo and Hearn have repeatedly mocked Benavidez’ resume, deeming it less than worthy of a shot at boxing’s biggest star. Still, Canelo will be watching.

“It’s a very competitive fight and I see Benavidez winning, but my focus is on the Dmitry Bivol rematch.” Canelo told Bet365.mx this week.

The Canelo angle is a good bet to add some intrigue to a long-awaited fight between Benavidez and Plant, who suffered an 11^th-round TKO loss to the Mexican champion a year ago.

Like Davis-Garcia, however, no date or site has been announced. The Benavidez-Plant agreement was reported two weeks ago. A day in March was mentioned last at the WBC convention in Acapulco. Vegas, Los Angeles and a Texas city are possible destinations.

Until then, Caveat Emptor, the Buyer Beware tag and boxing’s only real mandatory. 

Below are quotes and statements from the integral players that put together the massive Gervonta Davos – Ryan Garcia fight set for the Spring on SHOWTIME PPV.

Stephen Espinoza, President, SHOWTIME Sports

“Tank Davis vs. Ryan Garcia is one of the biggest and most exciting fights that can be made in boxing. We have two supremely talented boxers, both in their prime, who have amassed huge fanbases, meeting in a career defining fight. This is the epitome of a crossover boxing event. All credit to Tank and Ryan for staying the course and giving the fans the fight they want.

“SHOWTIME has delivered the three biggest pay-per-view events in television history and we are thrilled to add this marquee event to our list of culture-moving matchups.”

This quote from Oscar De La Hoya was issued earlier today on Twitter.  For your convenience see below: 

The fans have been crystal clear that the fight they want is Ryan versus Tank. Golden Boy Promotions and I are proud to be leading the drive to get this fight signed and are excited to get a deal finalized ASAP. It’s high time that those outside the ring stop getting in the way of those who want nothing more than to get into the ring and fight. Our motto has always been that the fans come first, and this is just another example of how we’re leading by example.

POMONA, CA (October 24, 2022) – Rising star, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (8-0, 8 KOs) captured the vacant super lightweight NABA Silver title this past Saturday when he stopped former world title challenger, Jayson Velez (30-10-1, 21 KOs). Velez, who went the distance with Ryan Garcia and JoJo Diaz, didn’t come out after the sixth round. The event, promoted by Red Promotions, took please at the LumColor Center in Ontario, California.

Mercado looked sensational from the opening bell, throwing multiple power shots from all angles, sending Velez into survival mode from the start. Tito landed a powerful left hook to the body, setting the tone for a dominating performance. It was evident that Velez was hurt on multiple occasions throughout the fight, as Tito tried to knock him out. After getting punished for six rounds, Velez had enough and didn’t come out for round seven, crowning Mercado the new NABA Silver champion at super lightweight.

“Fighting a veteran like Velez in only my eighth pro fight is a big deal to me,” said Tito Mercado, who has won all his fights by knockout, all of which took place in the United States. “I learned a lot in this fight being that I went past the third round for the first time in my career. I know there is more to work on and I’ll be looking at the tape to see where I can improve. One thing I know for sure is I’m not a boring fighter. Fans who turn in to watch me fight will get their money’s worth.”

With the victory, Tito Mercado at age 20, becomes one of the youngest regional belt holders in the sport. With over 300 amateur fights before turning professional, Mercado is certainly on the fast track to a world title. He’s hoping to break into the top 15 WBA rankings.

“Winning the NABA Silver title, I’m hoping gets me ranked with the WBA,” said Tito. “I’m ready to fight any of the top contenders in the WBA. I know my time is coming and I’m going to take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way.”

Las Vegas (August 31, 2022) – Boxing Star Ryan Garcia 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 Gennadiy Golovkin, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Ryan will meet 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

Ryan will make his first appearance at this years’ Expo and fans will have an opportunity to take pictures at his booth where he will have merchandise on sale with his own line of clothing design apparel FIERCE KING.

Ryan joins Teofimo Lopez, WBA, Juan Manuel Marquez, Michael Spinks, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Marco Antonio Barrera, Rolando Romero, 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.

About Ryan Garcia / Fierce King

Ryan Garcia is one of the most dynamic and exciting boxers fighting today. With a 23-0 record and 19 KO, the young Mexican American fighter has earned accolades include holding the WBC interim lightweight title, beating top contenders such as Olympic gold medalist Luke Campbell. Garcia has now moved up to the junior welterweight division, winning his first fight at 140 via knockout against the formidable Javier Fortuna. At just 24 years old, he has already built one of the most impressive resumés of his generation.

In addition to his feats in the ring, Ryan runs his own fashion line, Fierce King, and serves as the face of the Fierce Reflex bag, the ultimate reflex training tool for combat athletes.

His passions for sport at the highest of levels, mental health advocacy, fashion, as well as his unrivaled social media presence with more than 15 million followers across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, have brought thousands upon thousands of new fans to boxing. 

About Fierce Reflex

Fierce Reflex is the ultimate reflex training tool for combat sport athletes, from beginners to professional to champions. Professional boxers, UFC fighters, USA Boxing amateurs and all other combat sports use the Fierce Reflex bag to improve their reflex, speed, and defense. Every boxing gym needs one. The Fierce Reflex bag is great for all ages. For more info go to @fiercereflex

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

.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

Ryan Garcia stopped former world champion Javier Fortuna in round six of a scheduled 12-round junior welterweight bout at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

In round four, Garcia dropped Fortuna with a left to the body. In round five, it was another hook to the body that put Fortuna down again. In round six, Garcia ended it with….you guessed it, another left hook but this was to the side of the head and the fight was stopped at 1:27.

Garcia, 140 lbs of Victorville, CA is now 24-0 with 19 knockouts. Fortuna, 139.8 lbs of Lo Romana, CA is 37-4-1.

“I want to thank God first and foremost,” said Ryan Garcia. “I know that I performed well for myself. I was crisp, sharp and I stayed in my truth. I didn’t do anything crazy. I know how good of a fighter I am, I just had to put it all together, just like tonight. Fortuna hit hard, he has a hard fist. Like I said when I fight stronger opponents, I box better. Yes, I caught him with a body shot. He thought I was going for the head but I switched it on him. I felt he was going to throw the Luke Campbell shot [the shot that dropped Ryan against Campbell]. I feel like everyone is going to try to hit me with that shot. I hit hard so it doesn’t take much to hurt someone.”

“It felt like [I made] a statement to come back to the timeline I was at. Mental health is a time to reflect on yourself and get better for the future. That’s not weakness, that’s strength! That’s courage! You saw me today when I stepped in the ring. That’s nothing but courage and skill.”

“I felt way better at this weight. I’m not going down to 135 for nothing. But I will fight Tank next if he wants it at 140. I’ll make sure to record all the negotiations so you can’t say I was ducking. I want that fight because it’s going to give me the respect I deserve. I’m never afraid. I have a spirit of competition in me and you’re going to see that come out when I fight Tank and whoop his ass.”

Rocha Decisions Veron

Alexis Rocha won a 10-round unanimous decision over Luis Veron in a welterweight bout.

Rocha landed 171 of 620 punches; Veron was 72 of 313.

Rocha, 146.8 lbs of Santa Ana, CA won by scores of 100-90 twice and 99-91 and is now 20-1. Veron, 146 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 19-5-2.

“My strategy for this fight was to go in there and break him down,” said Alexis Rocha. “I knew he was going to be a durable fighter; he gets hit and stays there. Once that happened in the fight I knew he was just going to survive. Training is always great with my team, they’re always pushing me. I went there with a game plan and I followed it the best I could. It feels good fighting in front of a big crowd here at the Crypto Arena. Having my Santa Ana crowd behind me, it made me feel good. Onto the next level now.”

Roach Jr. Decisions Rodriguez

Former world title challenger Lamont Roach Jr. scored a 12-round unanimous decision over Angel Rodriguez in a super featherweight bout.

Roach landed 241 of 580 punches; Rodriguez was 120 of 502.

Roach, 129.8 lbs of Washington, DC won by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 twice and is now 23-1-1. Rodriguez, 129.2 lbs o Barranquilla, COL is 20-2.

“My strategy was to stay tight and keep the pressure on him,” said Lamont Roach Jr.  “We knew it would break him down. He was a tall and lanky fighter so we were watching out for the looping shots. He had a nice 1-2, the ones that landed I let him. He was really good defensively, but if we would’ve kept the punch output higher I would have stopped him. He was very evasive.”

“He’s an amazing fighter, extremely intelligent,” said Angel Rodriguez. “He knows how to work his rival and always keep his composure even when getting hit. In these events it’s them who decide who wins and as an athlete I’d fight him again. We tried to win but he simply came with better preparation and strategy, that’s why he took the victory.”

Jimenez Decisions Sandoval

David Jimenez scored an upset by winning a 12-round majority decision over Ricardo Sandoval in a flyweight bout.

In round seven, Jimenez was deducted a point for holding. In round two, Jimenez dropped Sandoval with a short right hook.

Sandoval landed 249 of 712 punches; Jimenez was 163 off 599, but the knockdown seemed to be the difference in the outcome.

Jimenez, 111.2 lbs of Cartago, CRI won by scores of 114-112 twice and 113-113 is now 12-0. Sandoval, 111.8 lbs of Rosito, CA is 20-2.

“I’m happy and grateful for this new victory,” said David Jimenez.  “We executed our game plan perfectly. In the first 6 rounds it was a lot of movement and aiming. After the 6th round I started to take advantage. My rival was very tough and stubborn. He has a lot ahead of him. I’m going to go home after this victory and spend time with my family then get back into the gym.”

“I felt like I was boxing him correctly so I feel very good,” said Ricardo Sandoval.  “I was also countering him downstairs and upstairs. But you know these things happen. I felt like I won the fight. The people won tonight and got one hell of a fight.”

Omar Collazo won a 12-round unanimous decision over Victorio Saludar in a WBA Minimumweight Elimination bout.

In round seven, each scored knockdowns. Collazo dropped Saludar with a body shot. Saludar answered back by dropping Collazo with an uppercut.

Collazo, 105 lbs of Villalba, PR won by scores of 118-110 and 116-112 twice and is now 5-0. Saludar, 104,2 lbs of Misamia, PHL is 21-6.

“It was a tough fight. I had to use my whole toolbox,” said Oscar Collazo. “My opponent was powerful and experienced; he’s a veteran in the sport. But, thanks to my corner, I got in the ring and fought round by round. A world championship is next. I want to be a champion.”

Diego De La Hoya stopped Enrique Bernache in round four of their 10-round featherweight fight.

De La Hoya dominated the action and in round four, landed a barrage of punches in the corner that forced a referee stoppage at 2:51.

De La Hoya, 126 lbs of Mexicali, MEX is now 23-1 with 11 knockouts. Bernahce, 125.2 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 24-14.

“I felt thrilled to be back, said Diego De La Hoya. “I haven’t fought in two years, so I felt great. My opponent was tough. I’ll probably fight again in September. Hopefully, I will fight for a championship soon.”

Miguel Gaona remained undefeated with a first round stoppage over Abdiel Padilla in a super lightweight fight.

In round one, Gaona dropped Padilla with a body shot. Seconds later it was another body shot that put Padilla down again for the 10-count at 1:25.

Gaona, 138.6 lbs of Los Angeles is 3-0 with two knockouts. Padilla, 136 lbs of Caguas, PR is 1-3.

LOS ANGELES (July 13, 2022) – Undefeated boxing phenom Ryan Garcia (22-0, 18KOs) of Victorville, CA, and former two-time world champion Javier “El Abejon” Fortuna (37-3-1, 26 KOs) of La Romana, DR hosted their fight week media workout today at EC Young Boxing Gym in Los Angeles,CA. They anticipated 12-round lightweight showdown will take place at the Crypto.com Arena in Downtown Los Angeles and will stream live worldwide, exclusively on DAZN. Also in attendance of today’s media activities, was co-main event fighter Alexis “Lex” Rocha (19-1, 13 KOs) of Santa Ana, CA, who will be facing Luis Veron (19-4-2, 9 KOs) of Buenos Aires, Arg. in a 10-round fight for the vacant NABO Welterweight Title. Also, in attendance was Lamont Roach Jr. (22-1-1, 9 KOs) of Washington, DC, who is scheduled for 12-rounds for the WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator against Angel “Humildad” Rodriguez (20-1, 10 KOs) of Barranquilla, COL. Finally, Rialto’s Ricardo “El Nino” Sandoval (20-1, 15 KOs) was onsite to perform for the media as he prepares to take on David “Medallita” Jimenez (11-0, 9 KOs) of Cartago, CRI, in a 12-round fight for the WBA Flyweight Title Eliminator. All fights will take place on Saturday, July 16, and will stream live worldwide, exclusively on DAZN, starting at 5:00 p.m. PT / 8:00 p.m. ET.

Below are what the fighters had to say today at their media workouts:

RYAN GARCIA, Undefeated Lightweight Contender:

“I am having a great time. I am supreme confidence. I’ve worked my ass off.”

“This game is about adjustments, you can’t bank on the same thing every day. What matters most that you do the best that you can with the hand you are dealt with in that moment.”

“It doesn’t matter if you are not 100%. We are at the point where that doesn’t event matter. I am at the point that it wouldn’t matter if I am at 65%, I am destroying Fortuna. He cannot beat me. I am levels above him.”

JAVIER FORTUNA, Former Two-Time World Champion:

“I feel very good to be here, very honored, and am happy that I can move my career forward.”

“I feel in good physical condition and I promise I will give the fans a very good fight.”

“Ryan is a good fighter, but we hope that this time around he doesn’t have any excuses not to fight me. I see that he is very focused on another fight instead of focusing on the fight he has this Saturday. And we hope that after I beat him on Saturday he doesn’t have any excuses.”

“When you enter the ring you risk your life. I am risking my life, sacrificing for my children and I promise that I will give him everything I have. I am focused on what I can do to win.”

ALEXIS ROCHA, Welterweight Contender:

“Its been another great camp. They are always grueling, physically and mentally challenging, but it has been great. Shout out to my whole team, Hector Lopez, Cesar Campos, and Robert Villasenor.”

“My opponent is tough, he has never been stopped, and we know he has been in there with many tough opponents. I expect a game opponent on Saturday night.”

“I want to fight who ever has the belts. Errol Spence and Terrence Crawford will retire or move up in weight and those belts will be up for grabs.”

LAMONT ROACH JR., Super Featherweight Contender:

“In this game, the circle of opportunity for a world title shot closes, so for me to get another opportunity like this, it’s just in me to tackle it.”

“I have always been challenged in my career. They were always putting in some guys that come to fight, they weren’t just laying down. But it has built me into the man and fighter that I am now. And the new guys in front of me they aren’t lasting.”

“I feel I am the best and I just need an opportunity to show it. Every time I am in the ring I want to improve and put the division on notice. I’m here.”

RICARDO SANDOVAL, Flyweight Contender:

“Its very cool to fight in Los Angeles in a big stage like the Crypto.com Arena. That is where a lot of historic boxing events have happened, basketball games, so it’s a real privilege to be able to fight there.”

“I just want to thank all the people that supported me, that has been my motivation. I want this fight, I have been waiting for a year, we are fight for a title eliminator. This just gets me closer to a world title shot.”
Tickets for Garcia vs. Fortuna are on sale now and are priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, $75, and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase online at AXS.com, CryptoArena.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

Garcia vs. Fortuna is a 12-round lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts, Uncle Bud’s Hemp & CBD – Relax, Recover, Reset, Masculen “It’s a Mentality. Don’t be a man, be the man,” and Gym Shark. The fight will take place on Saturday, July 16 at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 30, 2022): Undefeated boxing superstar Ryan Garcia (22-0, 18KOs) of Victorville, CA, hosted a virtual media roundtable call ahead of his scheduled 12-round lightweight fight against former two-time world champion Javier “El Abejon” Fortuna (37-3-1, 26 KOs) of La Romana, DR. The fight will take place in Downtown Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena on Saturday, July 16 and will be streamed live worldwide, exclusively on DAZN. 

Tickets for Garcia vs. Fortuna are on sale now and are priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, $75, and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase online at AXS.com, CryptoArena.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

Below are brief quotes of what the fighter had to say during his media call. Click HERE for the full audio:

“Joe’s consistency and his work ethic never misses a beat. He is always looking to improve or find a way to better your game. He is there all the time. His worth ethic is unmatched.”

“Overall, my skill level improved. This is due to my consistent training after my brief break. My mind is up to speed in terms of timing, reflexes, distance, and control. Overall my game is much better.”

“I think it’s pretty obvious where we are headed once we pass Fortuna. I am going to campaign for the fight against Gervonta Davis. We want to be transparent about the process to prove to the people that we want this fight. I try to find ways to exploit the truth and clear the fog. I have to be transparent, just like I was with the Cruz negotiations.”

“I’ve always been close to my family. We have a lot of traditions, and we keep each other close. We love each other, pray together, and this journey of my boxing career and fame; my family has been there with me every step of the way. It’s very important to be me because I love my family. I love everyone being happy, and I love sharing all my success with everyone I love.”

“I have been taking steps with surrounding myself with people who want the best for me. People that will not contribute stress and pressure on my life. I am focusing on what keeps me happy and what songs keep me happy.”

“[After going the distance with Tagoe] I am able to base my overall game plan a little bit better for a 12-round fight. Conditioning wise I have updated our techniques. I understand at which rounds I feel more tired and when I feel a second wind. There have been little things that I have been able to construct in my mind that evaluate and have solutions for when training. So now I feel even more comfortable in a 12-round fight; and I will be able to show you what I have learned and what I have been working on on July 16.”

“I am a great fighter. I am going to show you the difference between me and Jojo Diaz and Robert Easter Jr. Nothing is guaranteed, but I am 99.999% confident I will take Fortuna out early. 

Garcia vs. Fortuna is a 12-round lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, July 16 at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 23, 2022): The undercard for Garcia vs. Fortuna promises a night full of action at the historic Crypto.com Arena on Saturday, July 16, as Orange County’s fan favorite, Alexis “Lex” Rocha (19-1, 13 KOs) of Santa Ana, CA takes on Baltimore’s Samuel “Unbelievable” Kotey (23-3, 16 KOs). The 10-round welterweight fight will serve as the co-main event for Garcia vs. Fortuna. Also, on the DAZN live stream, Lamont Roach Jr. (22-1-1, 9 KOs) of Washington, D.C., is scheduled for 12-rounds for the WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator against Angel “Humildad” Rodriguez (20-1, 10 KOs) of Barranquilla, COL. Opening up the live stream, Rialto’s Ricardo “El Nino” Sandoval (20-1, 15 KOs) will take on undefeated fighter David “Medallita” Jimenez (11-0, 9 KOs) of Cartago, CRI, in a 12-round fight for the WBA Flyweight Title Eliminator. All fights will take place on Saturday, July 16, and will stream live worldwide, exclusively on DAZN, starting at 5:00 p.m. PT / 8:00 p.m. ET. 

Ahead of that, The Golden Boy Fight Night: Garcia vs. Fortuna Prelims will stream on DAZN and the Golden Boy Boxing YouTube page. The card will be headlined by Diego De La Hoya (22-1, 10 KOs) of Mexicali, MX, in a 10-round featherweight fight against Enrique Bernache (24-13, 12 KOs) of Guadalajara, MX. Next, Los Angeles’ Miguel Gaona (2-0, 1 KOs) will look to add another victory to his record when he faces Jonathan Guzman (0-5) of Aguada, PR, in a 4-round lightweight fight. Finally, Lawrence King (11-1, 9 KOs) of San Bernardino, CA will fight in a scheduled 6-round super middleweight fight against an opponent yet to be confirmed. Additional fights and opponents will be announced shortly. 

“At this point in my career, it doesn’t matter who my opponent is, all that matters is continuing to knock opponents out and my personal growth as a fighter,” said Alexis Rocha. “No opponent can dictate how my career moves. I carry the power to control my own destiny and career. July 16th is another opportunity for me to take control of my destiny and to continue climbing to the top of the sport. I can’t wait to share a card with Ryan in a place so close to home — Los Angeles. I’m ready to put on a show. Thank you to Golden Boy and all of my fans for the continued support.”

“To be showcased as the co-main event in one of the biggest fight cards of the year in the biggest arena in Los Angeles, is a huge opportunity for me,” said Samuel Kotey. “I promise my fans I will not disappoint them and on July 16, everyone will know who Samuel Kotey is.” 

“Just in case the division forgot about me I’m putting them on notice on July 16,” said Lamont Roach Jr. “This is my opportunity to get closer to a world title shot and I am going to win and put on an impressive performance.”

“This is my chance to prove that I am an elite level fighter worthy of a world title shot,” said Angel Rodriguez. “Winning the WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator will prove I have what it takes to go the distance in this sport and one day call myself a world champion.” 

“I am excited for this fight because I will be fighting in the biggest arena in my hometown,” said Ricardo Sandoval. “This is a big opportunity for me to show my fans, friends, and family all the hard work I have put in to get here. This fight is for a title eliminator, I am ready to fight for a world title next and on July 16 I will prove it to the world.” 

“I am ready for a challenge on July 16,” said David Jimenez. “I will be fighting to keep my undefeated record, earn a place in the rankings, and be a step closer to a world title shot after I win the WBA Flyweight Title Eliminator. This is my chance and I will do everything in my power to be declared the winner on July 16.” 

Tickets for Garcia vs. Fortuna are on sale now and are priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, $75, and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase online at AXS.com, CryptoArena.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

Garcia vs. Fortuna is a 12-round lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, July 16 at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 7, 2022): To kick-off the promotion for Garcia vs. Fortuna, undefeated, lightweight superstar Ryan Garcia (22-0, 18KOs) of Victorville, CA, hosted a press conference today at the world famous Crypto.com Arena. The fight is set to take place on Saturday, July 16 at Downtown Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena and will stream live, worldwide on DAZN. Garcia will face former two-time world champion Javier “El Abejon” Fortuna (37-3-1, 26 KOs) of La Romana, DR. Fortuna was able to join today’s activities virtually as he spoke to reporters during the live zoom roundtable session. Below are what the fighters had to say during the roundtables. 

To watch the full press conference click here, if you are interested in a full transcript of the roundtable session, please message me directly:

RYAN GARCIA, UNDEFEATED LIGHTWEIGHT CONTENDER 

“I grew up [in Southern California], I have seen games here, this is Kobe’s house. I identify with him and the Mamba Mentality, and I am grateful to be able to fight at the Crypto.com Arena. I have seen every style here and now I am fight here its a dream come true 

“There have been a few things that have been out of our control that have prevented me from staying active. I feel like with things better now, there are more fights in my future. I haven’t taken any damage. I feel good, I am healthy and ready to go.” 

“I want Tank Davis next, that is what I have said. I know that Tank is a big fighter and so am I. Whoever wins that fight is the next face of boxing.” 

“I think of every possibility to make fights in boxing. Both parties can come to an agreement, they need to be fair to each other and to the fights. Don’t be greedy, be firm, be fair and let’s look at the data.” 

JAVIER FORTUNA, FORMER TWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION 

“I am preparing well. I am looking forward to a good fight. I am not joining you at the press conference today because I am training. I am 100% committed to winning this fight. I am going to be 100% ready.” 

“Ryan is a small fighter. He doesn’t have the capacity and doesn’t have the talent to beat me. I hope he is ready.”

“Ryan’s speed doesn’t faze me. I know how to take that away from him. I have the experience to do it. You’ll see during fight night. You’ll see my power. I am looking forward to beating him at his house.”

Tickets for Garcia vs. Fortuna are on sale now and are priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, $75, and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase online at AXS.com, CryptoArena.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

ABOUT CRYPTO.COM ARENA 

Crypto.com Arena has undoubtedly developed an unrivaled reputation for excellence having established itself as one of the world’s busiest and most successful venues in the world. As the home of four professional sports franchises – the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers, the NHL’s LA Kings and the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks – Crypto.com Arena has proven to be a home court advantage for the local teams. The AEG owned and operated arena continues to distinguish itself as the host of major, high-profile events of national and international distinction including the 2004, 2011 & 2018 NBA All-Star Games, 2002 & 2017 NHL All-Star Game, 2000 Democratic National Convention, 2009 World Figure Skating Championships and 19 of the last 22 GRAMMY Awards shows. The past twenty-two years have also been marked with performances and special events that brought international stature to the downtown Los Angeles venue including concerts Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Prince, U2, Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks, Usher, Jay-Z, Kanye West, Keith Urban, Roger Waters, Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Ed Sheeran, Kendrick Lamar, Michael Bublé, Carrie Underwood and Justin Timberlake, as well as world championship boxing, family shows and special events. Hosting over 250 events a year, the arena’s reputation for world-class amenities, features and commitment to quality of service and the guest experience is second to none.

Garcia vs. Fortuna is a 12-round lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, July 16 at the Crypto.com Arena and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 3, 2022): The 12-round lightweight clash between undefeated, lightweight superstar Ryan Garcia (22-0, 18KOs) of Victorville, CA, and former two-time world champion Javier “El Abejon” Fortuna (37-3-1, 26 KOs) of La Romana, DR will take place in Downtown Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena on Saturday, July 16. Fighting in Southern California for most of his career, this will be the first time Garcia has fought in Downtown Los Angeles since 2017. The fight, originally scheduled to take place in 2021, has become a grudge match between Garcia and Fortuna and will be streamed live worldwide, exclusively on DAZN.

Tickets for Garcia vs. Fortuna go on sale Tuesday, June 7th at 10:00 a. m. PT and are priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, $75, and $50 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase online at AXS.com, CryptoArena.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

“I am so excited to be fighting at the world famous Crypto.com Arena on July 16th,” said Ryan Garcia. “Let’s turn LA upside down.”

“We are excited to welcome Golden Boy and this marquee fight between Ryan Garcia and Javier Fortuna to downtown Los Angeles and Crypto.com Arena on Saturday, July 16th,” Lee Zeidman, President, Crypto.com Arena.

Crypto.com Arena has undoubtedly developed an unrivaled reputation for excellence having established itself as one of the world’s busiest and most successful venues in the world. As the home of four professional sports franchises – the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers, the NHL’s LA Kings and the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks – Crypto.com Arena has proven to be a home court advantage for the local teams. The AEG owned and operated arena continues to distinguish itself as the host of major, high-profile events of national and international distinction including the 2004, 2011 & 2018 NBA All-Star Games, 2002 & 2017 NHL All-Star Game, 2000 Democratic National Convention, 2009 World Figure Skating Championships and 19 of the last 22 GRAMMY Awards shows. The past twenty-two years have also been marked with performances and special events that brought international stature to the downtown Los Angeles venue including concerts Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Prince, U2, Paul McCartney, Garth Brooks, Usher, Jay-Z, Kanye West, Keith Urban, Roger Waters, Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Ed Sheeran, Kendrick Lamar, Michael Bublé, Carrie Underwood and Justin Timberlake, as well as world championship boxing, family shows and special events. Hosting over 250 events a year, the arena’s reputation for world-class amenities, features and commitment to quality of service and the guest experience is second to none.

Garcia vs. Fortuna is a 12-round lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, July 16 at the Crypto.com Arena and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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

LOS ANGELES, CA (May 31, 2022): Undefeated, lightweight superstar Ryan Garcia (22-0, 18KOs) of Victorville, CA, will make his second appearance of the year, facing former two-time world champion Javier “El Abejon” Fortuna (37-3-1, 26 KOs) of La Romana, DR. The 12-round lightweight fight will take place on Saturday, July 16 and will stream live worldwide, exclusively on DAZN.

“If there is any doubt I was hesitant to fight Fortuna a year ago, that will all be made clear after our fight,” said Ryan Garcia. “This was the fight I wanted and now it’s time. I am so grateful to my friends, family, and especially my fans for their support. I have never felt better, stronger, and more motivated. It’s time to silence all the doubters and it starts on July 16.”

“This is going to be a very exciting fight. I know it didn’t take place last year like originally announced but I hope that this time it will be real so that I can offer a good show to the public,” said Javier Fortuna. “I feel very happy with the work that I have been doing with my promoter, Sampson who has been trusting me since the beginning of my career. I will prepare 100% to win my fight. I trust my team now more than ever and have full confidence in my coach Belvin García, who I consider my family. Together, and with God on our side, I know we will hold up our hands high in victory on fight night.”

“It’s time to show the world Ryan Garcia as an elite level fighter,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO, Golden Boy. “This fight against Javier Fortuna will not only be a tough fight, it will show the world how talented he is.”

“What a month we have had on DAZN and what a fight this will be!” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “This is an absolute cracker featuring one of the brightest talents in the sport in Ryan Garcia against a two-time world champion in Javier Fortuna. You do not want to miss this on July 16th! Watch live and exclusively worldwide on DAZN.”

After a spectacular performance against top-ten lightweight contender Emmanuel Tagoe in April 2022, Ryan Garcia proved he still is a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division. Originally scheduled to face Fortuna in July 2021, Garcia was forced to bow out of the event due to mental health struggles. However, he has defeated almost every top contender via knockout, including a seventh-round stoppage of 2012 Olympic gold medalist Luke Campbell in 2021. His amazing undefeated career with 18 knock-outs inside the ring, including his spectacular shutout performance against Emmanuel Tagoe has earned him a spot as one of the lightweight divisions top stars of our time. Now, the 23-year-old, undefeated lightweight sensation is on a mission to prove he has what it takes to defeat the division’s elite.

Ranked in the top 10 of the lightweight division by ESPN.com, the WBC, and The Ring Magazine, Javier Fortuna is a dangerous lightweight contender with a lot to prove on July 16. The 33-year-old southpaw is a former two-time world champion who previously held the WBA Interim Featherweight World Championship and the WBA Super Featherweight World Championship. Fortuna was last seen in a spectacular first round stoppage of Rafael Hernandez in Santo Domingo, DR this past February and will be looking to have another spectacular performance when he faces Ryan Garcia on July 16.

Garcia vs. Fortuna is a 12-round lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy in association with Sampson Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Saturday, July 16 and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

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

Ryan Garcia came back from a 160month layoff to drop and take a 12-round unanimous decision over Emmanuel Tagoe at The Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

In round two, Garcia dropped Tagoe in with an uppercut. Garcia was able to control the ring as he used his size to hurt Tagoe several more times that had the Ghanaian holding on several more times.

Garcia landed 165 of 599 punches; Tagoe was 90 of 391.

Garcia, 138.8 lbs of Victorville, CA won by scores of 119-108 twice and 118-109 and is now 22-0. Tagoe, 138.2 lbs of Accra, GHA is 32-2.

“He was making it difficult for me to end it,” said Ryan Garcia. “He was crafty with the holding, and I was trying to get him off me, and he was moving a lot; it was a new experience. I think I have to cut the ring off better with a guy who will keep moving all 12 rounds. I made sure to get him in the body a lot and used my left hook to hurt him. I have a lot of love for San Antonio. It was great that after a year and a half layoff, I was received by such a great crowd. It’s a blessing. I wanted to knock him out, but he was very crafty. At the moment, I could feel like I hurt him, but he really can take a punch.”

“First of all I want to thank my team,” said Emmanuel Tagoe. “I know the reason why I lost. I didn’t throw my right arm. He came forward but I couldn’t get any points from pushing. I think I’m going to go home and sit down with my team. Ryan Garcia is a good boxer.”

Shane Mosley Jr. Decisions Gabriel Rosado

Shane Mosley Jr. scored the biggest win of his career by winning a 10-round majority decision over former world title challenger Gabriel Rosado in a super middleweight fight.

Mosey landed 172 of 600 punches; Rosado was 124 of 517.

Mosley dominated the action, and rocked Rosado several times as he took the cards by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 95-95.

Mosley, 167 lbs of Pomona, CA is 18-4. Rosado, 167.8 lbs of Philadelphia 26-15-1.

“They know who I am now,” said Shane Mosley, Jr. “Gabriel is a great champ. We have to see what’s available. Right now 168 is tied up. Canelo has all the belts. Unless he vacates or fights someone else. I mean who’s going to turn down Canelo. I moved to 168 for the opportunity.”

Marlen Esparza Unifies Flyweight Titles

Marlen Esparza retained her WBC and captured the WBA Flyweight title with a tough 10-round unanimous decision over Nakoka Fujioka.

Esparza landed 120 of 436 punches; Fujioka was 107 of 418.

Esparza, 111.4 lbs of Houston, TX won by scores of 100-90 twice and 97-93 to go to 12-1. The 100-90 scores were much wider then the fight was as Fujioka won several rounds clearly. Fujioka, 111.6 lbs of Tokyo, JAP is 19-3-1.

“I thought it was a really good performance considering how hard she brings it,” said Marlen Esparza. “She’s a very seasoned fighter, she’s a world champion. I’m proud we did everything we practiced, me and my couch James Cooper. We really executed well and we expected it to go that way. You don’t know what a world champion can bring. We had to be patient and see what she had to bring to the table. It wasn’t tough because of the punches but more because she was smothering. I’m really just grateful I could have this experience not only for womens’ boxing but for my fans and really solidify the division. I really want the next two belts. ‘La Bonita’ from Argentina is the one I want, but I have to let my team decide what’s next. I’m happy for the future.”

Hovhannisyan stops Aguero in 2

Azat Havhannisyan stopped Dagoberto Aguero in round two of a scheduled 10-round featherweight fight,

In round two, Aguero came shot out of a cannon, but Hovhannisyan was able to drop Aguero with a hard right. Aguero was hurt and was sent to the canvas again with a huge flurry. With Aguero on rubbery legs, Hovhannisyan rocked Aguero several more times until the fight was stopped at 1:11.

Hovhannisyan, 124.2 lbs of Los Angeles is 21-3 with 17 knockouts. Aguero, 122.8 lbs of San Cristobal, DR is 15-2.

“I was planning on escalating the fight as it went on,” said Azat Hovhannisyan. “That was just the second round pace. I was warming up. When I landed the first body shot I knew I was going to hurt him.”

The scheduled 10-round super middleweight bout between Patrick Teixeira and Paul Valenzuela ended bizarrely as the fight was waved off in round two after Teixeira hit Valenzuela in the back of the head twice and Teixeira was disqualified.

The two punches looked to barely hit the head, yet Valenzuela reacted like the punches landed very hard and he could not continue.

Valenzuela, 168.4 lbs of Santa Rosalia, MEX is 27-11. Teixeira, 162.4 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA is 31-3.

In a battle of undefeated featherweights, Katsuma Akitsugi won a a eight-round unanimous decision over Gregory Morales.

Akitsugi, 125.4 lbs of Hollywood, CA won by scores of 80-2 twice and 78-74 and is 9-0. Morales, 125.8 lbs of San Antonio, TX is 13-1.

“I want to thank my trainer and my sponsor,” said Katsuma Akitsugi. “ I’ve been through a lot and they helped me be more focused. I’m always training hard, no days off. So when they call me I don’t lose my opportunity.” 

Tristan Kalkreuth scored a spectacular second-round stoppage over former world title challenger Santander Silgado in a six-round heavyweight bout.

In round two, Kalkreuth landed a booming right that sent Silgado down on his back for the 10-count at

Kalkreuth, 219.4 lbs of Duncanville, TX is 9-1 with seven knockouts. Silgado, 242 lbs of Panama City, PAN is 30-12.

“I’m very blessed to be here and be back where I am,” said Tristan Kalkreuth. “It’s a lot of emotions right now. I felt good. I was anxious and a little nervous. I’ve been out of the ring for 8 months. I was curious to see how my arm would feel. I went in and threw a right hand, it felt 100.

George Rincon remained undefeated with a10-round unanimous decision over Alejandro Frias in a welterweight bout.

In round two, Rincon scored a knockdown.

In round eight Rincon was cut on his forehead from a head butt. Frias was deducted a point for that.

Rincon, 138.4 lbs of Dallas, TX won by scores of 96-91 twice and 98-89, and is now 13-0. Frias, 141 lbs of Tepic, MX is 13-6-2.

“That was obviously my toughest fight to date,” said George Rincon. He was a very rugged fighter, I knew that coming into the fight. But this experience is only going to make me better. I was able to identify things that I still have to work on.” 

Hector Valdez Jr. remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Daniel Moncada in a super bantamweight fight.

In round three, Valdez was cut on his hairline.

In round five, Valdez was credited with a knockdown after landing a left hook that put Moncada on the canvas. In round six, Moncada was bleeding over his left eye.

Valdez, 121 lbs of Dallas, TX won by scores of 80-71, 79-72 and 78-73 and is now 15-0. Moncada, 121.8 lbs of Mexico City is 15-6-2.

“I feel really rusty,” said Hector Valdez Jr. “ I think I could’ve taken him out if I trained more. It’s the first fight in over a year. I hurt him but he was really crafty to get in and hit him. There were punches there but as soon as I threw them he would move a little and they would go off course.”

Santos Ortega remained undefeated with a second-round stoppage over Jesus Martinez in a scheduled six-round featherweight bout

In Round two, Martinez was cut over his right eye. Seconds later, Ortega landed a hard combination in the corner the sent Martinez down. Martinez tried to get up but was counted out.

Ortega, 125.8 lbs of Sacramento, CA is 7-0 with three knockouts. Martinez, 124.4 lbs of Hollywood, FL is 30-16-1.

“This is probably the best and strongest I’ve ever felt,” said Santos Ortega. “I was praying everything went good. He was waiting for that overhand and I was too. I knew I had him hurt with a right hand and I just went in. I knew he was done, I felt it.