October 4, 2024 – On Wednesday, October 2, a video went viral of Terence Crawford stating, “if Fundora’s licking his chops over my performance vs Israil Madrimov, then I should be licking my chops because Madrimov knocked Fundora out in sparring.”

Since then, the Fundora team have been receiving notifications of Crawford’s accusations. Hence, on Thursday, October 3, Coach Fundora spoke to Madrimov’s trainer, Joel Diaz, regarding the viral statement made by Terrance Crawford. During the conversation between Coach Diaz and Coach Fundora, Diaz mentioned that Madrimov’s Manager, Vadim Kornilov, was very perturbed at these false statements made by Crawford on a sparring session that happened over five years ago in which neither of them ever touched the canvas.

Per Madrimov and his whole team, they stated they have nothing but respect for Sebastian Fundora, and his whole team, and don’t take lies and disrespect lightly. Coach Fundora responded that “Team Diaz,” Madrimov’s coaching team, is family to him. They have all known each other from the Coachella Valley since they were kids.

“The Boxing Community in the Coachella Valley is extremely tight knit. We all respect each other for the work we put into our boxers, and Coaches’ Etiquette is an unbroken rule that we all abide by. There are plenty of ways of making fights professionally, without fabrication out of frustration. To reiterate Madrimov and his team are God fearing men, and it is very unlikely that they would ever speak ill of Sebastian Fundora, his sparring sessions and his team. No amount of facts or truth will convince a simpleton that they are wrong.”

“Terence Crawford should apologize for being so naive,” added Fundora’s promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz. “A great champion like him should be above this kind of childishness.”

Referencing the fact that the WBO have ordered Fundora and Crawford’s representatives to reach an agreement to fight by 4 pm on October 10, or the committee will order purse bids, Lewkowicz says there’s no need for a champion like Crawford to be engaging in schoolyard gossip.

“The fight is already going to happen. It’s bad business for Crawford to be trying to make a unified world champion look bad by spreading stupid rumors. You’re 37 years old. Spend your time training instead. You’re going to need it.”

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About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (August 14, 2024) — History making siblings, Unified WBC and WBO Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian Fundora and his sister, IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela Fundora, will be in attendance at the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame’s 8^th Annual Awards & Induction Weekend to be held at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City on September 27^th – September 29^th.

The hard-punching duo will attend the “Opening Bell VIP Cocktail Reception” at The Balcony inside the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, to meet-and-greet with fans in attendance and participate in the weekend festivities during the yearly celebration of Atlantic City’s rich boxing history.

The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Class of 2024 inductees include: James “Buster” Douglas, Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez, Paul Williams, Gerry Cooney, Mark Breland, Sharmba Mitchell, Tyrone Mitchell Frazier, Mario Maldonado and Eva Jones-Young in the fighter category, James “Buddy” McGirt, Bruce Blair, the Fundoras’ promoter Sampson Lewkowicz, Eric Bottjer, Randy Gordon, Guy Gargan in the Contributor category with posthumous awards presented to Howard Davis Jr., Jay Larkin, and Eddie Cotton.

Eric Seelig, George Godfrey and Joey Giardello will also be honored as pioneers of the sport.

For more information, please visit acbhof.com

Tickets can be purchased for Awards & Induction Ceremony by visiting: Ticketmaster | ticket prices are: $125.00 & $60.00 please visit our website for all event tickets, room reservations and full event schedule and itinerary at: www.acbhof.com  

A special thanks to our sponsors and supporters: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Boardwalk Resorts – Flagship Hotel, Mayor Marty Small Sr., City of Atlantic City, Bare Knuckle Fighting Champions, Hard Hitting Promotions, Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, The Irish Pub-Atlantic City, D’Arcy Johnson Day-Lawyers, O.C.E.A.N Inc; Community Action Partnership & Atlantic City PAL, Sampson Boxing, Quail Hill Realty-Smithville, Holman Wealth Management, Tennessee Ave Tobacco Company, Sparbar LTD, Patrick Killian Arts, SiSi Hollywood, Guzman Gloves, Adams Boxing, WBC, IBF, Icons of Boxing Memorabilia and Fight Night Apparel

For more information, visit the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame’s website at: www.acbhof.com

LAS VEGAS – April 1, 2024 – Sampson Lewkowicz, the sole promoter of brand-new unified WBC and WBO 154-Pound World Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora, wishes to clarify his position on a potential Fundora rematch with now former champ and previously unbeaten Tim Tszyu.

“We were all so eager to make this fight that many of our agreements were made verbally. There wasn’t enough time,” explained Lewkowicz. “But I wish to make it clear that Team Fundora will honor the agreement. My word is always equal to a signed contract. Tim Tszyu, your rematch is ready when you are.”

Lewkowicz says the Fundora vs. Tszyu rematch will happen, with the only deciding factor being if Tszyu would like to do it immediately or if he prefers the fighters take an interim fight each beforehand.

“It all depends on Tim Tszyu,” said Lewkowicz. “If he doesn’t take the rematch, we will take the WBO mandatory or Spence, whatever the WBO says, but the first priority is the rematch with Tim Tszyu.”

In one of the bloodiest and most exciting fights of the past decade, Fundora won the titles by taking home a split-decision over Tszyu in the main event of the inaugural PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video Saturday night from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. One judge scored the fight 116-112 for Tszyu but was overruled by scores of 116-112 and 115-113 for Fundora.

Tszyu (24-1, 17 KOs) fought well in the first two rounds, almost landing straight right hands at will before running into an incidental elbow from Fundora (21-1-1, 13 KOs) in round two, which opened a massive cut on the top of his head. Bravely, Tszyu fought on but, with his vision compromised, he was not the same fighter against Fundora’s newly rediscovered jab and superb work rate for the rest of the fight.

Fundora, who became the second world champion in his family, following his sister Gabriela, the current IBF Flyweight World Champion (both are trained by their father and certain Trainer of the Year candidate, Freddy) was also forced to deal with blood flowing, as a badly broken nose hampered his breathing for most of the fight. Undaunted, the new champ focused on using his significant reach advantage to consistently pepper Tszyu with jabs and clubbing left hands from the southpaw stance.

“Both fighters proved their tremendous hearts in this fight,” said Lewkowicz. “The elbow was a complete accident, but it showed Tim Tszyu’s greatness in continuing to fight when he could have quit. And Sebastian Fundora was swallowing his own blood for 10 rounds and still was able to beat one of the best in his division. It was a sensational fight, and we are ready to do it again when Tim is ready. Congratulations to both fighters. There were no losers Saturday night. The boxing fans won by witnessing it. Amazon Prime Video won with an amazing first show and both fighters won by proving their greatness in front of the whole world.”

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About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

LAS VEGAS – March 28, 2024 – Fighters competing on the stacked inaugural PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video featuring four world title fights went face-to-face on Thursday at the final press conference before they enter the ring this Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The press conference featured rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu and all-action contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora, who meet for Tszyu’s WBO title and the vacant WBC 154-pound world title in the main event, plus 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, who square off in the co-main event.

Also participating in Thursday’s event was WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara and No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, who duel in a 12-round attraction, plus WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez and unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova, who duel in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

In addition, fighters stepping into the ring for PBC on Prime Video action beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT faced off ahead of their respective matchups that stream live via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime Membership or purchase of the PPV. The live streaming presentation will be topped by rising middleweight Elijah García taking on contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 10-round attraction, while super welterweight contenders Serhii Bohachuk and Brian Mendoza open the action in a battle for the Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are available now through AXS.com. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

TIM TSZYU

“We’re finally here. It’s been a long road, but I’ve dreamt of this moment my whole life. Everything I’ve done has led to this point.

“The show goes on and destiny awaits. Saturday night we get to fight for the belts. It’s all about collecting belts and collecting legacy. We’re going to show that the Tszyu name is the greatest boxing family of all time.

“It’s quite hard to prepare for a fighter like Fundora. But a true champion rises to the occasion. I came here as a throwback fighter and that’s what I want to be. I’m living the way I speak. I’m here to do exactly what I say.

“Of course he’s got height, but we all bleed the same blood. There’s no difference between us. I’m taking inspiration from Mike Tyson and everything he did into this fight.

“Every moment has led to this. In 2009 I came here to watch Manny Pacquiao fight Miguel Cotto and it was in my brain that this was where I wanted to be. Now I see Miguel Cotto sitting right here and it’s unbelievable.

“He’s coming in for the brawl. He’s good at what he does and it’s all about eliminating what he does and showing what he’s not good at.

“This is step one to where I want to be. There’s plenty of big super fights to be made in the near future.”

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“What a change of events. From opening the card to headlining in the fight capital of the world of Las Vegas. This is a big opportunity that we’re going to take advantage of on Saturday night.

“This is the moment and the time for me to become world champion. My sister did it six months ago, and now it’s my turn.

“Losses happen in boxing. I made a mistake and I paid for it. Everything has still lined up the way it should be and now we have a chance to find out who the best fighter at 154 pounds is.

“I expect the best from Tim Tszyu. This is the best fight you can make in the division. He’s number one right now and we’ll crown a new champion on Saturday night.

“I always look at myself as the underdog. Now It’s just time to prove again what we’re made of. I’m so thankful to fight for my dream on Saturday night.”

ROLANDO ROMERO

“Everybody thinks this is gonna be a difficult fight, but I think this is gonna be an easy fight. He’s gonna run right into something, because he’s stupid.

“He’s gonna throw and throw and throw again. He does the same stuff over and over again. I’m ready for it.

“This is a great opportunity that I’ve been given. I’m already champion though, I didn’t need this fight. He’s the one who has to take advantage.

“I wanted this fight because it’ll be fun for the fans. This is a fight the fans have been asking for and I’m doing everyone a favor by giving it to them. Make sure you tune in.

“I feel like I’m back at home training with Ismael Salas. He’s had a big influence on me throughout my whole career really.

“I’m not giving you the belt, but I can give you the chihuahua chain after the fight.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“I have learned a lot from my recent fights. I know that I don’t want to leave it up to the judges. I’m in great shape and ready to throw hard punches from round one through round 12.

“If he thinks I’m stupid, then he’s even stupider. If he thinks I’m just gonna lay down, he’s very mistaken. He’s gonna realize it on Saturday night.

“I’ve trained so hard to represent the Mexican people on Saturday night. I always fight to make them proud and this will be no different.

“Rolly was talking trash during the face off, but his bark is far stronger than his bite. I just want to hit him repeatedly in the face when the time comes.

“I’m here to wipe Rolly’s smile off his face and take his belt. That’s it. Isaac Cruz is going to be the new world champion.”

ERISLANDY LARA

“I’m thankful to everyone who made this fight possible. I’m ready to go, I’m pumped up and I’m ready to give everyone a great fight. The time for talking is over.

“I prove my worth inside of the ring and Zerafa will see that on Saturday night. I’m excited to be back, because I feel ready and strong.

“I’m gonna work hard in the ring and I feel like I’m gonna knock him out. I think it’s gonna happen before the sixth round.”

MICHAEL ZERAFA

“Saturday night ends with me as the new WBA world champion. Mark my words.

“Hopefully we’re coming back to Australia with three world titles, one for myself and two for Tim. Now it’s time to do it.

“Having Nonito Donaire in my corner for this fight has been huge. He’s a legendary fighter and there’s a lot to learn from him. I’m here to take what’s rightfully mine. I’ve been ready for this fight for so long.

“This is a huge night for Australia. We’re putting a small country on the big map and we’re taking over starting Saturday night.”

JULIO CESAR MARTINEZ

“I’m really thrilled to be back after a couple setbacks. In the end, it’s all about what happens inside of the ring on Saturday.

“I’m ready to face anybody at any time. I say it all the time and I mean it. Everyone will see what I mean on Saturday night.

“I want to give the fans a great fight. I’m coming out one thousand percent ready and it’s going to be fireworks.

“I’m so excited and motivated for this fight. Like I always say, we are here to come after everything, with no fear.”

ANGELINO CORDOVA

“I’m really happy and excited to be part of this event. I hope that everything turns out well and everyone enjoys this great card.

“I’ve been picturing the moment of becoming world champion for a long time. I can’t wait until that moment comes and I can make my country proud.

“I don’t need to make a prediction, but you will see sparks fly when that bell rings on Saturday night.

“Whatever Martinez brings, I’ll be ready. I’m very confident in myself and all of the training we’ve done for this fight.”

ELIJAH GARCIA

“We’re gonna have a great night of fights on Saturday. I have a lot on my plate right now with Davis. He’s experienced and dangerous. If I’m not prepared, he will win. So I’m going to be ready to perform at my highest level and take it from there.

“I don’t really feel pressure to be honest. Last year was a great year, but now it’s a new year. We got great experience that will help me going forward. It’s all about performing right and listening to my corner.

“This is a really big fight for me. Davis is a dog. He doesn’t quit. He’s for real. He has nothing to lose right now, so I knew that I had to give 100% in training.

“This is going to be another big fight for me.”

KYRONE DAVIS

“We flew out here to make a point and win on Saturday. I trained hard. This isn’t a fight where I had two weeks-notice or saved the show. This is a fight where I can show everyone who I am.

“Being the underdog doesn’t matter to me. No one can fight the fight but me and him. What other people think doesn’t matter.

“I think you’re going to see a lot of things come together for me on Saturday night. I’ll get in there and fight with anybody, but I really had time in this training camp to prepare. He’s gonna feel it.

“Garcia is a great fighter and I appreciate him taking this fight. Show up on Saturday and watch us show out.

“A win on Saturday puts me in position for a world title shot and that’s what we’re looking for.”

SERHII BOHACHUK

“I’m very happy to be here for a big show. I’m going to show my fans and everyone in the world a great fight. I can’t wait for Saturday night.

“Brian is a good fighter with good experience. This is a big fight for my career. I’m only focused on the fight in front of me.

“I’ve gained a great deal of experience in recent years. I’m 100% ready. My loss was not a loss, it was just experience. I’m a smarter fighter now and I’m ready for all of the big fights.  

“I’m going to show on Saturday everything I can do. My time is coming. This is going to be a great fight.”

BRIAN MENDOZA

“Hard work is what got me here and I’m so thankful to be in this position. I was getting ready for a fight when the call came. We’re always grinding. Once I got the call, there was no hesitation.

“I think Tszyu and Bohachuk are similar in some ways, but Tszyu is more polished. I gained a lot of experience fighting Tszyu and I’m going to keep going after the best.

“I have no doubt that my conditioning is going to be there, so I’m ready to turn it up in the ring on Saturday. I’m an underdog again and everyone knows how I fight when I have a chip on my shoulder.

“I’m still number two in the division behind Tim Tszyu and I want to show why on Saturday night. Make sure you tune in.”

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ABOUT TSZYU VS. FUNDORA & ROLLY VS. PITBULL

The stacked inaugural four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video will see rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu taking on all-action contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora for Tszyu’s WBO title and the vacant WBC 154-pound world title in the main event, plus 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meeting in the co-main event on Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view will also see Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defend his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez defends his world title against unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The card marks the debut event for PBC Pay-Per-View available through Prime Video since the parties announced a landmark, multiyear rights agreement in December. In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are available now through AXS.com. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #TszyuFundora and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LAS VEGAS – March 27, 2024 – Fight week events officially kicked off Wednesday with media workouts and grand arrivals for fighters competing on the stacked inaugural PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video taking place this Saturday, March 30 as four world title fights enter the ring from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The media workout featured rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu and all-action contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora, who meet for Tszyu’s WBO title and the vacant WBC 154-pound world title in the main event, plus 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, who square off in the co-main event.

Also participating in Wednesday’s event was WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara and No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, who duel in a 12-round attraction, plus WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez and unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova, who duel in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are available now through AXS.com. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand:

TIM TSZYU

“It’s time to become a global star now and take another continent. I feel at home. This is where I belong. Looking at all these posters, this is where I’ve always dreamed of being. I feel at peace.

“I live by that word. Never retreat. I fear no one. I will go into any fight, it doesn’t matter. Two week notice, twelve days, tall guy, whoever they put in front of me, I just have to adapt, change and take over.

“With another world title on the line, it’s another opportunity for greatness. In the record books, we’d be the second unified family in the world to ever be in this position, so for me there’s so much on the line. There’s so much at stake. It’s just a wonderful time to be alive.

It’s great that both Zerafa and I are coming in and going for world titles. It’s a good time for Aussie boxing. Right now, it’s hot… red hot.

“The only way to win is in convincing fashion. It’s what I’ve always done. It’s going down one way, KO.

“This will be a classic. When we’re talking about classics, I’m hoping it’s going to be one of those fights that’s replayed forever.”

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“This is where I stamp the start of my legacy.It took us a millisecond to accept this fight. We were ready for the opportunity. We were already fighting for the WBC, now they threw in the WBO. It was an opportunity we couldn’t pass over.

“The height difference is just an everyday thing for me. I’m always taller than everybody, so this is just another day at work.

“Bohachuk and Tszyu are both similar, Bohachuk being a little bit taller, of course. Other than that, we have a pressuring, hard-hitting, orthodox fighter in Tszyu, the same in Bohachuk.

“My last fight was more than a learning experience; it was a reminder. In this sport you cannot make mistakes, and if you do, you pay for it.

“My father got his first world champions with my sister six months ago. We’re going to do it again this Saturday. He’s going to be Trainer Of The Year in my eyes.

“March 30, tune in. It’s going to be a great fight. We’re going to have another Fundora crowned as champion.”

ROLANDO ROMERO

“I am blessed to be fighting in my hometown and I can’t wait for Saturday night for the bell to finally ring.

“I was killing myself really bad to make 135 pounds. It had been like that for a good minute. This weight is great for me, but I also want to move up to 147 pounds. That is where all of the fun is.

I’ll do whatever. I’m not ducking anybody. I’ll go after anyone.

“Isaac Cruz is a small guy. He was big the other day. He looks a little smaller now. Anyone can think about setting a fast pace until they get punched in the face by me.”

“Cruz is the first fighter that I don’t have to go and chase. It is going to be a lot of fun. I don’t have to set any traps. He sets himself up for them.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“This is a very big and important second chance at a world title for me. I’m not going to come out with my hands tied, I’m ready to throw. I am prepared for whatever he wants to do.

“This is perhaps the best training camp I have had in my career. That is all due to the work I have put in with my Dad and the whole staff that have been here supporting me all the way.

“I don’t feel any pressure. Pressure means nothing to me. I am here to be world champion. Period.”

ERISLANDY LARA

“I’m really happy to be back here, and I want to thank you all for your support. I’m looking forward to this weekend. Zerafa is a high-quality fighter. He’s here for a reason. He’s a contender. On March 30, we’ll see who’s better inside the ring.

“The motivation comes from the day-to-day and the training, from wanting to get better each and every day. I can guarantee you that at my age, I feel in tip-top shape, both physically and mentally. I’m ready to go.

“I’m taking things year by year. But I’m focused on the moment. I’m focused on this Saturday and winning this fight, taking things step by step.

“I’m going to give you the best of me, and I hope to come out with the win on Saturday. That’s all I can do, so that’s what I’m going to do.”

MICHAEL ZERAFA

“This means everything to me. I want to bring back that world title. This is my life and this is more than a fight for me.

“This fight is dedicated to my sister, who is fighting her own fight at the moment. She’s suffering with breast cancer, and this fight is for her. She’s in her own fight for her life, so 12 rounds with Lara is nothing compared to that.

“I’ve been lucky enough to have Rachel and Nonito Donaire in my corner – they’re huge artillery going into this fight. That’s kept me sane and kept me exactly where I need to be pushing the pace. No stone’s been left unturned. We’re here now. We’ve traveled to the other side of the world, not to be an opponent. We’re here to take what’s rightfully mine.

“I’m a huge fan of Lara, even prior to us becoming opponents. He’s a great mover, but he’s getting old. I truly believe he’s held the belt for way too long. He’s just looking for a pay day with Danny Garcia or one of those guys. I’m there to upset the plan and take what’s rightfully mine.

“I’m fully focused. I’ve been here before when I fought Kell Brook and Peter Quillin. This is just another night for me. I’m grateful to be fighting at such a huge stadium in front of all these fans. I thank you for all the love and support, but I’m fully focused on the task ahead.”

JULIO CESAR MARTINEZ

“Cordova knows how to move, so we are ready for anything. We can go toe-to-toe and fight an all-out war. We can also fight tactically with the reach. We are going to come at him with everything.

“We are going to come after Cordova, pressure him, and make sure he feels it.

“I am here to make history. This is the beginning of a path to go after all four world championship belts. I want to be the undisputed champion.”

ANGELINO CORDOVA

“I am so excited to show everyone what I can do on Saturday night. You are going to see sparks fly.

“I just came here to fight and win a world title. That is what I am going to do. It’s going to be an exciting night. God willing, I will bring the world title back to my country.”

“My message to the fans is to keep fighting, because dreams do come true.”

#         #         #

ABOUT TSZYU VS. FUNDORA & ROLLY VS. PITBULL

The stacked inaugural four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video will see rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu taking on all-action contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora for Tszyu’s WBO title and the vacant WBC 154-pound world title in the main event, plus 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meeting in the co-main event on Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view will also see Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defend his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez defends his world title against unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The card marks the debut event for PBC Pay-Per-View available through Prime Video since the parties announced a landmark, multiyear rights agreement in December. In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are available now through AXS.com. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #TszyuFundora and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LAS VEGAS – March 27, 2024 – Undefeated prospects will square off as Mayweather Promotions’ phenom Curmel Moton takes on fellow unbeaten Anthony Cuba in a six-round super featherweight tilt that highlights the non-televised undercard this Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The event is headlined by a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video featuring four world title fights as rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu takes on all-action contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora for Tszyu’s WBO title and the vacant WBC 154-pound world title in the main event, while 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero meets Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in the co-main event

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez defends his world title against unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova in the pay-per-view opener.

Preceding the pay-per-view will be a two-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT, topped by rising middleweight Elijah García taking on contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 10-round attraction. Kicking off the stream will be exciting 154-pound contenders Serhii Bohachuk and Brian Mendoza battling for the Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title. The two matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

The non-televised undercard will also see unbeaten Argentine Mirco Cuello (13-0, 11 KOs) taking on Sulaiman Segawa (16-3-1, 6 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight attraction, plus unbeaten super featherweight prospect Justin Viloria (4-0, 3 KOs) battles Erick Benitez (5-5-1, 1 KO) in a six-round duel.

Rounding out the lineup is unbeaten Las Vegas-native Kalpo Gallegos (3-0-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round featherweight bout against St. Louis’ Eric Howard (6-1, 1 KO), and the pro debut of super lightweight Adrian Neaves taking on Steven Walker (0-1) in a four-round showdown.

The highly-touted 17-year-old Moton (2-0, 2 KOs) had made waves coming out of the Mayweather Promotions stable and turned pro last year with a pair of knockout victories over previously unbeaten foes. Born in Salt Lake City, Utah and now residing in Las Vegas, Moton ended each of his pro fights in one round, stopping Ezequel Flores in September and Hunter Turbyfill in November.

A native of Los Angeles, Cuba (7-0-2, 3 KOs) added three victories to his ledger in 2023, including most recently dominating Angel Barrera across six rounds on his way to a unanimous decision in December. The 21-year-old has fought professionally since 2020, and put together his three-fight winning streak following a split draw in September 2022. 

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ABOUT TSZYU VS. FUNDORA & ROLLY VS. PITBULL

The stacked inaugural four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video will see rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu taking on all-action contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora for Tszyu’s WBO title and the vacant WBC 154-pound world title in the main event, plus 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meeting in the co-main event on Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view will also see Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defend his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez defends his world title against unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

The card marks the debut event for PBC Pay-Per-View available through Prime Video since the parties announced a landmark, multiyear rights agreement in December. In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets as well as PPV.com.

For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #TszyuFundora and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LAS VEGAS – March 25, 2024 – A star-studded lineup of knowledgeable and experienced on-air talent is set to call the inaugural PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video on Saturday, March 30, headlined by the Tim Tszyu vs. Sebastian Fundora and Rolando Romero vs. Isaac Cruz world championship showdowns live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Providing blow-by-blow for this highly anticipated event will be renowned boxing commentator Mauro Ranallo, with former three-division world champion Abner Mares and legendary Hall of Fame trainer Joe Goossen on fight analysis. In the host position will be veteran announcer Brian Custer, while Claudia Trejos and Jordan Plant will each provide ringside reporting.

For the Spanish language pay-per-view, acclaimed play-by-play voice Alejandro Luna will deliver the blow-by-blow.

Ranallo was the longtime voice of boxing on SHOWTIME, in addition to play-by-play duties for entities including WWE SmackDown and NXT, Bellator MMA and more. A Mexican Olympian and a four-time world champion throughout a career that saw him become one of Southern California’s most popular fighters, Mares worked as an analyst for SHOWTIME from 2020 through 2023. One of boxing’s most celebrated trainers, Goossen has operated the Ten Goose Boxing Gym for many years, training top fighters including Shane Mosley, Amir Khan, Riddick Bowe, Diego Corrales and many more. Behind the mic, Goossen was acclaimed for his commentating with FOX Sports from 2018 through 2022.

Custer won two Emmy awards while working at SNY-TV, and currently is a featured ESPN talent appearing on SportsCenter and more. He’s experienced in the fight game as well, as a longtime host of SHOWTIME Championship Boxing. Trejos is a veteran of ESPN and ESPN Deportes broadcasts and is a member of the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame, while Plant was a fixture ringside reporting for FOX Sports boxing events.

Luna is a two-time Emmy nominee and has handled Spanish blow-by-blow for SHOWTIME, FOX Sports and Univision.

The announcer teams will also be on the call for the two preliminary PBC on Prime Video fights that stream live and for free, regardless of Prime Video membership, beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is topped by rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu taking on all-action contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora for Tszyu’s WBO title and the vacant WBC 154-pound world title in the main event, plus 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meeting in the co-main event.

The pay-per-view will also see Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defend his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez defends his world title against unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova in the pay-per-view opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are available now through AXS.com. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #TszyuFundora and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

NEW YORK (March 20, 2024) — PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, returns to the ring when it live streams to boxing fans, in the U.S. and Canada, an action-packed  four-bout card, featuring the 12-round junior middleweight world title tilt between undefeated WBO junior middleweight world champion Tim Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs), a native of Sydney, Australia, and No. 3 world-rated contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs), from Coachella, California, Saturday, March 30, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT.  The co-main event will have WBA super lightweight world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero (15-1, 13 KOs), from Las Vegas, making his first title defense, against Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs), from Mexico City. The Tszyu – Fundora / Rolly – Pitbull championship event will emanate live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Priced at $69.99, it can be ordered by clicking here PPV.COM | Tszyu vs. Fundora.   

The PPV.COM Tszyu – Fundora world championship event live stream will once again feature Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley, who will be paired with award-winning journalist Lance Pugmire, co-hosting an exclusive viewer chat in real time.  Jim and Lance will be joined in the chat by “Inside Boxing Live” podcast hosts Dan Canobbio and Chris Algieri.  Jim, Lance, Dan, and Chris will also be providing exclusive fight week commentary and reports from Las Vegas for PPV.COM‘s website and social platforms.

Canobbioand Algieri will be bringing their popular Inside Boxing Livepodcast to PPV.COM, where they will produce two fresh episodes weekly, provide onsite coverage during major pay-per-view fight weeks, host their own weekly live chat every Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET, and join fight night live viewer chats.  For the latest episodes of Inside Boxing Live presented by PPV.COM, click hereInside Boxing Live – YouTube.

“Obviously the near-last minute switch from Keith Thurman to Sebastian Fundora renders some of the style specifics of Tim Tszyu’s preparation null or inappropriate,” said Lampley.  “Fundora is physically different, stylistically different, generationally different and competitively different than Keith Thurman.  So now it’s a new fight for Tszyu with a week and a half to adjust.  He’s still a heavy favorite, and he’ll have to accept that he gets less credit for the win in what may well be a tougher fight.  But that’s boxing.  Some memorable upsets have emerged from circumstances like this, but they are memorable because they are so rare.  There’s no logical reason yet to see this as less than perfunctory for Tim Tszyu.”       

PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, will offer Tszyu vs. Fundora in the U.S. and Canada.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including: Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and Telus, among others.

JIM LAMPLEY

Jim is a recipient of the Boxing Writers Association of America’s (BWAA) Sam Taub Award for Excellence in Broadcasting Journalism and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in its 2015 class.  He served as anchor and commentator for “HBO World Championship Boxing” for 30 years and has covered numerous Olympic Games during his long and distinguished career in sports broadcasting.      

LANCE PUGMIRE

Lance is a recipient of the Nat Fleischer Award for Excellence in Boxing Journalism, the BWAA’s highest honor.  He brings over 30 years of experience covering the sweet science for the Los Angeles Times, The Athletic, and USA Today.  He currently serves as senior U.S. writer for BoxingScene.com.

About iNDEMAND and PPV.COM

iNDEMAND is an innovative partnership among three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.– Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDEMAND is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDEMAND delivers great content to more than 60 million cable homes and has distribution deals with more than 90 companies.  In December 2021, iNDEMAND launched PPV.COM, an innovative streaming PPV service and the first of its kind to offer interactive fan engagement during live-action sports.  With the addition of PPV.COM, which does not require a subscription, to its existing cable PPV infrastructure, iNDEMAND has consolidated all forms of PPV distribution under one roof, making the company the only provider of turn-key PPV solutions for both industry partners and consumers.  For more information, go to indemand.com.

LAS VEGAS – March 18, 2024 – Undefeated rising star Tim Tszyu will take on all-action contender Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora for Tszyu’s WBO title (pending approval), and the vacant WBC 154-pound world title, headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Tszyu had originally been scheduled to face two-time world champion Keith Thurman, who was forced to withdraw after suffering a bicep injury in training. Fundora had already been preparing to compete in the pay-per-view opener before being moved up to the main event.

The pay-per-view will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and also features WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero taking on Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in the co-main event, plus WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara duels Australia’s Michael Zerafa in a 12-round attraction. The pay-per-view opener will now see WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez defending his world title against unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova. Martinez vs. Cordova had originally been scheduled to appear in prelims action.

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through PPV.com, as well as traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Preceding the pay-per-view will be a two-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT, topped by rising middleweight Elijah García taking on contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 10-round attraction. Kicking off the stream will be exciting 154-pound contenders Serhii Bohachuk and Brian Mendoza battling for the Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title. Bohachuk had been originally scheduled to face Fundora before the changes to the lineup. The two matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are available now through AXS.com. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

*TIM TSZYU VS. SEBASTIAN FUNDORA*

The son of International Boxing Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu, the 29-year-old Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs) comes off a red-hot 2023 campaign that saw him elevated to world champion at 154-pounds while defeating former world champion Tony Harrison, top contender Brian Mendoza and former title challenger Carlos Ocampo. A native of Sydney, Australia, Tszyu made his U.S debut against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in March 2022, earning a unanimous decision. Tszyu grew up playing soccer, but soon gravitated toward boxing. The decision led to him following in the legendary footsteps of his father, Kostya, who was an undisputed 140-pound champion.

Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs) rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division with a fan-friendly style and bruising toughness in the ring. His unbeaten streak came to an end in his last outing, as he got caught and was defeated by Brian Mendoza in April of last year. At nearly 6-foot-6, the 26-year-old southpaw from Coachella, Calif., towers over his opponents, but has displayed an appetite for toe-to-toe combat from short range. Fundora showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in an instant 2022 Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. Fundora represents a boxing family, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela.

*ROLANDO ROMERO VS. ISAAC CRUZ*

Part of the Mayweather Promotions stable, Romero (15-1, 13 KOs) is known for his brash talk that he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him a must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. The 28-year-old rose to the ranks of world champion in his last outing, stopping Ismael Barroso in round nine to win the title in May. It was Romero’s first return to the ring since a May 2022 defeat against three-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, the Las Vegas resident Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez. 

One of the most exciting fighters in boxing, the 25-year-old Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) has racked up three consecutive victories since dropping a competitive and entertaining decision against undefeated superstar Gervonta Davis in December 2021. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October before adding dominant decisions over Francisco Vargas and Jose Matias Romero. After stopping former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in April 2022 and veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez in September 2022, Cruz returned this past July to turn away the previously unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera by decision.

*ERISLANDY LARA VS. MICHAEL ZERAFA*

Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs) was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a 2018 title unification match that earned “Fight of the Year” from the BWAA. Lara returned from that fight and battled former 154-pound world titleholder Brian Castaño to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. Lara most recently moved up to middleweight, capturing his WBA title with a first round knockout of Thomas LaManna in May 2021, before KO’ing Gary O’Sullivan in May 2022. Lara faced a slew of the top 154-pounders in the sport, including Canelo Alvarez, ahead of his middleweight debut.

Melbourne, Australia’s Zerafa (31-4, 19 KOs) is long established as one of his country’s top contenders and has won four-straight to earn the title fight on March 30. Zerafa has split a pair of matchups against former champion and Australian rival Jeff Horn in addition to a first round knockout of longtime contender Anthony Mundine. The 31-year-old previously fought stateside in 2015, as he dropped a contest to former middleweight champion Peter Quillin. The veteran has also challenged former champion Kell Brook and defeated previously unbeaten fighters Danilo Creati and Isaac Hardman in his last two fights.

*JULIO CESAR MARTINEZ VS. ANGELINO CORDOVA*

Trained by the renowned Eddy Reynoso, Martínez (20-2, 15 KOs) first captured his flyweight world title with a ninth-round stoppage of Cristofer Rosales in his stateside debut in December 2019. The 29-year-old has gone on to defend the title five times, besting previously unbeaten opponents Jay Harris and Samuel Carmona, while most recently stopping Ronal Batista in May. A native of Mexico City, Martínez’s only blemish since a split-decision loss in his pro debut was a decision loss to future Hall of Famer Roman Gonzalez in March 2022.

The 28-year-old Cordova (18-0-1, 12 KOs) earned a career-best victory in his last outing, as he bested former world champion Angel Acosta on his way to a 10-round unanimous decision victory last April. A native of Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela, Cordova has yet to taste defeat since debuting in 2017, with a draw in just his fourth fight as the only blemish. He made his U.S. debut in June 2022, defeating Axel Aragon Vega by decision before the triumph over Acosta.

*ELIJAH GARCIA VS. KYRONE DAVIS*

Fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, García (16-0, 13 KOs) earned three impressive victories in 2023, kicking off his year last March with a knockout of the previously unbeaten Amilcar Vidal. He followed that up with a pair of performances on the undercards of two of the biggest events of the year, first defeating Kevin Salgado on the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia pay-per-view in April before knocking out Armando Resendiz on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo pay-per-view in September. The precocious García has moved fast since turning pro in 2020 and has knocked out seven of his last nine opponents.

The 29-year-old Davis (18-3-1, 6 KOs) picked up two victories in 2023, dominating Cristian Fabian Rios in January before scoring a unanimous decision over Cruse Stewart in December. Those victories came after a run that saw Davis battle two-time champion Anthony Dirrell to a draw in February 2021, before stepping in as a late replacement two fights later to drop a hard-fought contest against super middleweight superstar David Benavidez. An amateur standout representing Wilmington, Delaware, Davis trains in Philadelphia under the tutelage of top trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.

*SERHII BOHACHUK VS. BRIAN MENDOZA*

A 28-year-old from Ukraine, Bohachuk (23-1, 23 KOs) now resides in Los Angeles, where he’s fought out of since turning pro. The 28-year-old has won five-straight outings, including 2023 stoppages of Nathaniel Gallimore and Patrick Allotey. This run has come after a defeat to Brandon Adams in March 2021 and has seen him rise back up the 154-pound rankings. He won his first 18 fights after turning pro in 2017 following an extensive amateur career.

Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico and now fighting out of Las Vegas, Mendoza (22-3, 16 KOs) will return to the ring after traveling to Australia last October to challenge Tim Tszyu for his world title in a matchup that saw him lose by decision. Prior to that fight, The 30-year-old scored one of the year’s biggest upsets in April as he stopped the previously unbeaten Fundora with a sensational knockout in round seven, solidifying his own status at 154 pounds. Reinvigorated since teaming with renowned trainer Ismael Salas, Mendoza had previously knocked out former unified 154-pound champion Jeison Rosario in November 2022. Mendoza had put together a three-fight winning streak since dropping a decision to highly touted knockout artist Jesus Ramos in September 2021.

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For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #TszyuFundora and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LOS ANGELES – February 28, 2024 – Top super welterweight contender Sebastian Fundora and hard-hitting Serhii Bohachuk will meet for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, March 30, but it will be far from the first time they’ve shared a ring, as Fundora explained ahead of his opening bout on the PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

“We used to spar Bohachuk all the time,” said Fundora. “I sparred him a lot before I faced Ve’Shawn Owens and the fight after that. We stopped sparring around 2019, maybe early 2020. Bohachuk and I have sparred thousands of rounds together. But that’s in the past, we’re both in different places now as fighters.

“It’s an honor to have shared so many rounds with him. I wouldn’t rather have my first world title fight against anybody else. He’s a come forward fighter who throws a lot. I know he might be stronger now, but that same aggressive style is what I see. My job is to show the difference between us on March 30.”

A native of Coachella, California, Fundora and his father and trainer Freddy have moved training camp up to the Tehachapi mountains in Southern California. Despite the change in scenery, little has changed for the close-knit team.

“We’re up in the mountains this time with the snow, rain and bears, but other than that it’s the same camp and same team that’s gotten us to this point,” said Fundora. “We’ve been getting great work here so far and we’re on track for March 30. For me, training camp is about doing what I’m told. It’s a small circle, and my dad is the leader of it all. If I get out of line, he’s right there to show us the better path.”

Fundora will return to the ring for the first time since suffering the first and only defeat of his pro career, via KO last April against Brian Mendoza. Ahead on all three cards at the time of the stoppage, Fundora explained how he was able to move on quickly from the defeat and while there are some changes that have been made, his signature all-action style remains.

“The next day after the loss we went hunting,” said Fundora. “My dad told me not to worry about it too much. As fast as you go up in this sport, you can go down. I took maybe a month off to enjoy myself, but then I was right back into camp. We took more of a ‘washing the hands’ type of approach to the loss. All you’re really going to see from going back is the knockout. During the fight, I know I was ahead, but it went the way it went. So you have to throw it all out and move on.

“I’m a more mature Towering Inferno, but fans can expect a show like always. I don’t plan on taking that out of my game. But overall it’s going to be the best Sebastian Fundora.”

As he heads into March 30, Fundora will look to become the second world champion in his family, after his younger sister Gabriela captured the IBF Flyweight World Championship last October. For the elder son, he believes it’s an opportunity to stamp the legacy of his father’s training talent.

“It’s a blessing to be in this position. My sister just won a title, so it’s time for me to catch up,” said Fundora. “It’s my turn and I’m happy that if everything goes right, my father will have two world champions. It shows how good of a coach he is, even if he likes to stay behind the scenes. It shows us that we’re the real deal.”

With a win against Bohachuk, Fundora will be in line for a potential unification opportunity against reigning WBO 154-pound World Champion Tim Tszyu, who competes in the March 30 main event. A possible clash between the two would pit two action fighters, and perhaps the top two fighters overall currently campaigning in the division, against each other.

“Of course I’d want to face Tim Tszyu next if we both win,” said Fundora. “He’s the number one guy in the division and I’d be right under him after my fight. I want that fight and I’ll be waiting for it.”

Tickets for the live event on March 30, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are available now through AXS.com. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

#         #         #

ABOUT THURMAN VS. TSZYU & ROLLY VS. PITBULL

The stacked inaugural four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video is topped by two-time world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman dueling rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu in the main event plus 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meeting in the co-main event on Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view will also see Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defend his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus all-action super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will meet fast-charging contender Serhii Bohachuk for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight World Championship in the pay-per-view opener.

The card marks the debut event for PBC Pay-Per-View available through Prime Video since the parties announced a landmark, multiyear rights agreement in December. In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #ThurmanTszyu and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LOS ANGELES – January 31, 2024 – Fighters competing on the stacked inaugural four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video went face to face Wednesday in Los Angeles at a press conference to preview their respective matchups before they step into the ring on Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The press conference featured two-time world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman and rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu, who meet in the main event, plus 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, who battle in the co-main event.

Also appearing at Wednesday’s event was Cuban star and WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara, who defends his title against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa in a 12-round fight, and all-action super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and top contender Serhii Bohachuk, who square off for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight World Championship in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Pre-sale tickets are available TODAY, Wednesday, January 31 until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com by using the code: PBC

Public on-sale begins TOMORROW, Thursday, February 1 at 10 a.m. PT with tickets available through AXS.com.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday from The Conga Room at L.A. Live:

KEITH THURMAN

“It’s been a long time coming. I’m looking forward to continuing my legacy with this fight March 30. Once again I get to kick off a major event. This is what boxing is all about. Action. World Class.

“He’s a slow-footed fighter with a Mexican style. I’ll meet him in the middle of the ring. He’s gonna go home crying.

“They say Tszyu comes from ‘down under’, well I am trying to put you under, mate. He might have watched the video on me, but he doesn’t know. He might have signed the contract, but he doesn’t know what he just did. Bitter for you, but sweet for me!

“Moving up in weight is just something that happens in boxing. I love the legacy at 147 pounds and I got what I could get out of that division.

“Every time I step into the ring, I’m living out my American dream. We all know the sacrifices we make, and those sacrifices make us who we are. They’re truly worth it. I’ve done a lot at 147 and I want to do great things at 154 pounds. You put me in the ring, and I’m gonna rise to the top.

“I’m just looking for great fights and great action. Tim Tszyu is filling that void right now and providing me with the fight I want. He’s trying to open up the gates to his new era, but it’s my job to close the door shut, right in his face.

“Nobody wants to shut the haters up like Keith Thurman. Get your tickets today and be in the building. It’s very simple, you’re gonna hear one sound only, and that’s boom, boom, boom.”

TIM TSZYU

“It’s an honor to be in this position. You only launch something like this once, and I want to launch it in spectacular fashion.

“I want him to bring this same energy to the fight, and not run around like a gazelle. Because I’m definitely knocking him out in under 12 rounds.

“I don’t care about the critics. I’m going to fight whoever I can. I’m John Wick and there’s a list of names that I’m trying to tick off. This is the takeover for me.

“My goal is for the Tszyu name to be the greatest boxing family that ever lived. We’ve made it this far and we’ll see how far we can go.

“I know what Keith is and I know what he’s done, but I think the time is done for him. Now it’s a different era and it’s the ‘Tim Tszyu Era’. I’m not just planning to beat Keith Thurman, I’m planning to make this a spectacle.

“It’s a blessing to be here. It’s been a long time in the process for me. As soon as my fight finished against Brian Mendoza, I needed the next one. It was months in the making and now we’ve got a great opponent in Keith Thurman. I was like a kid getting a present from Santa Claus when they told me this fight was made.

“I know what I possess and what I’m gonna bring. There aren’t any old-school fighters like me anymore. I’m willing to fight anyone and I do damage when I’m in the ring.”

ROLANDO ROMERO

“To be the first superstar on Prime Video, I have to knock Cruz out. That’s it. Has to be a knockout.

“Odds are just statistics and they’re making him the favorite because he’s had more wins since fighting Gervonta Davis than I have. I’ve been an underdog before and I’m gonna keep betting on ‘Rolly’.

“The other fighters at 140 pounds are irrelevant. I’m only focused on being a part of this huge show with a huge platform.

“I’m used to being in this position. I carried the promotion for my fight against Gervonta Davis. So this is nothing new to me.

“Chihuahua, poodle, I don’t know he kinda looks like a little fat pug right now. That’s self-explanatory. Tune into the fight March 30.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“I’ll let him talk right now, because he’s gonna be the one crying like a chihuahua when the fight is over.

“My goal is to shut ‘Rolly’ up and show the world that I am a true Mexican world champion. I’m bringing that belt back home.

“I’m thankful to everyone for making this fight possible. I can’t wait to put on a show in the ring on March 30.

“We’ve kept working time after time and fight after fight. That’s how we earned another world title opportunity.

“I feel like I’m ready for this challenge. I’m a proud Mexican fighter and I’m going to show what I can do on March 30.

“I’m dedicating this fight to my kids. This fight is all about my family. I’ve only gotten to where I am thanks to them and their support.

“I want the fans to be the true winners on this night. That’s why I want to go take the belt from ‘Rolly’ and give the fans what they want.”

ERISLANDY LARA

“I promise that I’m going to be ready for Zerafa and that everyone tuning in is going to see a great fight.

“I’m going to put pressure on my opponent. I’m coming full-throttle. The fans can expect me to make this a very difficult night for Zerafa. I’m trying to knock him out.

“I feel good and I feel strong. I don’t think I need to prove anything. I just have to showcase who I am. I don’t think I’m going to have much trouble showing that.

“I’ve gained so much experience in this sport and that’s allowed me to pick the right times to go for knockouts. Lately that’s what I’ve been able to get done.

“I know that I’ve got a young opponent in front of me who’s going to give it everything he has to win the world title. But I’ve got a lot to offer to stop him and you’re going to see it on March 30.

“I’m very comfortable training and living in Las Vegas and I know that’s going to help me be at my best when the bell rings.”

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“Last time I came out I took my first loss, but we’ve been training hard waiting for this moment. I’m ready to do whatever I have to do to win this world title. Serhii and I know each other and I know we’re both here to give the fans a great fight.

“I don’t think I necessarily learned anything from the loss, but it was a reminder that you can’t mess around. I fell asleep for a second and I paid for it. I’ve had a year to regroup and now I have this opportunity to fight for this title. We’re gonna show up.

“Everyone that I fight is a big hitter. I only fight the best of the division. I’ll fight Tim Tszyu next. I want to be the best 154 in the world.

“Everybody keeps telling me there’s never been a brother and sister duo to be world champion at the same time. So if my and [IBF Flyweight World Champion] Gabriela can do it, it’d really be historic.”

SERHII BOHACHUK

“I have experience sparring Fundora and I know that this is a serious fight. This is the biggest fight of my career.

“This is my first title fight and it’s the fight of my life. I’m giving 100 percent. I know that I have to be my best. I’m going to be ready.

“I’ve learned a lot from mistakes that I might have made in past fights. It all makes me a better fighter today. That’s what I’ll bring into this fight.

“I’m going to show my fans and the whole boxing world a very strong performance when we get into the ring on March 30.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“We’ll be detailing the 2024 schedule in the coming weeks and we look forward to bringing the biggest and best fights to an extended audience with Prime Video.

“Keith is the former unified welterweight world champion and his only loss was a split decision to the legendary Manny Pacquiao. Although Keith is moving up in weight, Keith’s a big man and his whole amateur career was at 152 pounds.

“Tim Tszyu is a reigning, undefeated champion whose dream is about to come true when he headlines this massive pay-per-view event. I was there in 1995 when his father made his Las Vegas debut and won his first world title, and now Tim is a rising star who’s getting better and better with each fight. The winner of this main event will be considered the best 154 pounder in the world.

“They call this a co-main event, but you can take the word ‘co’ out of this fight. This is a main event in its own right with ‘Rolly’ defending his world title against the all-action Isaac Cruz.”

“We also have Erislandy Lara, the oldest reigning world champion, defending his title against his mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, and then in the opening fight Sebastian Fundora against Serhii Bohachuk has ‘Fight Of The Year’ written all over it. You won’t want to miss any of this card and I look forward to seeing everyone here.”

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For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #ThurmanTszyu and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

LAS VEGAS – January 25, 2024 – A pair of all-action, high-stakes showdowns will top a stacked four-fight pay-per-view event as two-time world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman duels rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu in the main event while 140-pound world champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meet in the co-main event on Saturday, March 30 in the inaugural PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The card marks the debut event for PBC Pay-Per-View available through Prime Video since the parties announced a landmark, multiyear rights agreement in December. In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

The pay-per-view will also see Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defend his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus all-action super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will meet streaking contender Serhii Bohachuk in the pay-per-view opener.

*Ticketing information to be announced shortly. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

“This first show with PBC on Prime Video is jam-packed with fan-friendly matchups featuring stars who are established as the best of their generation and new stars who are looking to make a claim to lead the next generation of champions,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Keith Thurman vs. Tim Tszyu gives each fighter a chance to debut 2024 with a statement, while ‘Rolly’ Romero and ‘Pitbull’ Cruz can send their ascending stock skyrocketing by emerging victorious. With two more clashes rounding out the pay-per-view, this lines up as another night from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas that you’ll want to stay glued to your seat for.”

“This is an historic event and puts the Tszyu name right back at the pinnacle of boxing where it belongs,” said George Rose, CEO of No Limit Boxing. “Tim only wanted the big names, legacy fights, and Keith Thurman is exactly that. It doesn’t end well for Thurman though as the world is going to realize Tim Tszyu is about to take over the sport. Thank you Premier Boxing Champions, TGB Promotions and Prime Video for what is going to be an incredible night of boxing.”

*KEITH THURMAN VS. TIM TSZYU*

The main event will see the former unified world champion Thurman, a long-time stalwart at welterweight, take his first crack at the super welterweight division as he faces the undefeated reigning WBO 154-pound World Champion Tszyu in a 12-round non-title showdown.

Clearwater, Florida’s Thurman (30-1, 22 KOs) earned his “One Time” moniker by talking the talk and delivering with highlight-reel KOs. He has assembled one of the most impressive resumes among the top welterweights of this generation, having defeated former champions Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia and Robert Guerrero. That showdown with Garcia saw him become a unified world champion in a rare unification bout between undefeated welterweight world champions. Thurman’s only blemish came in a 2019 Fight of the Year against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, with Thurman ending up on the wrong side of a narrow split-decision. Most recently, Thurman bested former world champion and current highly ranked welterweight Mario Barrios by unanimous decision in February 2022.

“I’m back in action and I’m happy to be a part of this first event with PBC on Prime Video,” said Thurman. “Tszyu stands out as an exceptional fighter, and I’ve always held admiration for his performances. His distinctive style provides the perfect stage for me to exhibit the relentless dedication I’ve poured into training, refining my skills, and fortifying my mental game. This fight promises a spectacular showdown between two of the most electrifying fighters in the sport, an event that demands attention. Good things come to those that wait. Them days are over, bright lights and action are up ahead. Let’s shake up the world of boxing one more time on Prime Video.”

The son of International Boxing Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu, the 29-year-old Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs) comes off a red-hot 2023 campaign that saw him elevated to world champion at 154-pounds while defeating former world champion Tony Harrison, top contender Brian Mendoza and former title challenger Carlos Ocampo. A native of Sydney, Australia, Tszyu made his U.S debut against U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha in March 2022, earning a unanimous decision. Tszyu grew up playing soccer, but soon gravitated toward boxing. The decision led to him following in the legendary footsteps of his father, Kostya, who was an undisputed 140-pound champion.

“I’ve been ready and waiting to headline a historic event like this in the U.S. for a very long time and it’s an honor that I don’t take lightly,” said Tszyu. “My father did it, and was at the top of the world for a decade, now it’s my turn. Thurman is a great fight, he’s tricky, tough and he’s mixed it with the very best the sport has seen. This is a new era now. It’s the Tszyu era. On March 30, everyone who tunes into this pay-per-view is going to see for themselves.”

*ROLANDO ROMERO VS. ISAAC CRUZ*

The WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Romero will make the first defense of his world title in a 12-round matchup against the top lightweight contender Cruz, who will look to debut at 140-pounds with a championship-winning performance in the night’s co-main event.

Part of the Mayweather Promotions stable, Romero (15-1, 13 KOs) is known for his brash talk that he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him a must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. The 28-year-old rose to the ranks of world champion in his last outing, stopping Ismael Barroso in round nine to win the title in May. It was Romero’s first return to the ring since a May 2022 defeat against three-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, the Las Vegas resident Romero won an interim title in August 2020 by earning a close but unanimous decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez. 

“This is gonna be Rolly versus the Chihuahua in the ring on March 30,” said Romero. “I’m gonna stay world champ and be the first superstar on Prime Video. Just make sure you buy your tickets or tune in on pay-per-view, don’t miss this one.”

One of the most exciting fighters in boxing, the 25-year-old Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) has racked up three consecutive victories since dropping a competitive and entertaining decision against undefeated superstar Gervonta Davis in December 2021. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October before adding dominant decisions over Francisco Vargas and Jose Matias Romero. After stopping former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in April 2022 and veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez in September 2022, Cruz returned this past July to turn away the previously unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera by decision.

“I’m very happy and extremely motivated to have this opportunity to fight for the world title,” said Cruz. “I’ve worked extremely hard to earn this shot. I’ve tried to fight other big names, but ‘Rolly’ was the only one to step up and accept the challenge. He’s got power and courage, and he comes to knock you out. That’s going to make this a great fight on March 30. I’m thankful to my promoter Manny Pacquiao and my whole team for helping secure this fight for me. I will leave the ring as world champion on March 30.”

*ERISLANDY LARA VS. MICHAEL ZERAFA*

Unbeaten in two fights at middleweight, Lara will defend his WBA Middleweight World Championship against the WBA’s top-rated mandatory challenger Zerafa in a 12-round attraction on the pay-per-view lineup.

Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs) was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a 2018 title unification match that earned “Fight of the Year” from the BWAA. Lara returned from that fight and battled former 154-pound world titleholder Brian Castaño to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. Lara most recently moved up to middleweight, capturing his WBA title with a first round knockout of Thomas LaManna in May 2021, before KO’ing Gary O’Sullivan in May 2022. Lara faced a slew of the top 154-pounders in the sport, including Canelo Alvarez, ahead of his middleweight debut.

“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring and defending my title, especially on this first event with PBC on Prime Video,” said Lara. “I feel like I’m the modern day Bernard Hopkins and that I can keep doing this for years. I know that Zerafa has been waiting patiently for this opportunity, so he’s going to be hungry on fight night. But he’s going to realize that he’s now on the world class level facing the best fighter in the division. It’s an honor to be on this great card that’s going to be action packed from start to finish.”

Melbourne, Australia’s Zerafa (31-4, 19 KOs) is long established as one of his country’s top contenders and has won four-straight to earn the title fight on March 30. Zerafa has split a pair of matchups against former champion and Australian rival Jeff Horn in addition to a first round knockout of longtime contender Anthony Mundine. The 31-year-old previously fought stateside in 2015, as he dropped a contest to former middleweight champion Peter Quillin. The veteran has also challenged former champion Kell Brook and defeated previously unbeaten fighters Danilo Creati and Isaac Hardman in his last two fights.

“This is long overdue ever since I became the mandatory,” said Zerafa. “I’m very thankful to everyone who made this fight happen. Come fight night, the world will see why I deserve this opportunity and Australia will have a new world champion.”

*SEBASTIAN FUNDORA VS. SERHII BOHACHUK*

Already established as a must-see attraction, Fundora will return to face fellow highly ranked super welterweight Bohachuk in a 12-round fight for the vacant Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title to kick off the pay-per-view telecast.

Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs) rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division with a fan-friendly style and bruising toughness in the ring. His unbeaten streak came to an end in his last outing, as he got caught and was defeated by Brian Mendoza in April of last year. At nearly 6-foot-6, the 26-year-old southpaw from Coachella, Calif., towers over his opponents, but has displayed an appetite for toe-to-toe combat from short range. Fundora showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in an instant 2022 Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. Fundora represents a boxing family, as he is trained by his father Freddy alongside his younger sister, IBF Flyweight World Champion Gabriela.

“Training camp is going great and I’ve been working hard to get ready for this fight,” said Fundora. “I train 100% for every fight, so it’s been getting back to work as usual for me. I know I’ll win because my objective is still the same as before, to become world champion in the super welterweight division.”

A 28-year-old from Ukraine, Bohachuk (23-1, 23 KOs) now resides in Los Angeles, where he’s fought out of since turning pro. The 28-year-old has won five-straight outings, including 2023 stoppages of Nathaniel Gallimore and Patrick Allotey. This run has come after a defeat to Brandon Adams in March 2021 and has seen him rise back up the 154-pound rankings. He won his first 18 fights after turning pro in 2017 following an extensive amateur career.

“I can’t wait for this opportunity to fight for the title,” said Bohachuk. “I’ve worked my entire career for the chance to reach my dream in this sport. I will give everything to win this fight, because I’m not just fighting for myself, but also for my war-torn country of Ukraine.”

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For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #ThurmanTszyu and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions

Sebastian Fundora – 153.3 lbs.

Brian Mendoza – 153.5 lbs.

Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Dr. Lou Moret (Calif.), Nathan Palmer (Ind.), Zachary Young (Calif.)

Super Lightweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Brandun Lee – 141.3 lbs.

Pedro Campa – 141.2 lbs.

Referee: Jack Reiss; Judges: Jerry Cantu (Calif.), Tiffany Clinton (Calif.), Fernando Villarreal (Calif.)

Note: Contracted weight 142

Featherweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Luis Núñez – 125.9 lbs.

Christian Olivo – 125.4 lbs.

Referee: Thomas Taylor; Judges: Rudy Barragan (Calif.), George Cruz (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.)

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN

Stream Live at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT

on the SHOWTIME SPORTS^® YouTube Channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page

Super Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Gabriel Maestre – 150.1 lbs.

Devon Alexander – 152.5 lbs.

Referee: Gerard White; Judges: David Soliven (Calif.), Alejandro Rochin (Calif.), Fernando Villarreal (Calif.). 

Super Featherweights – 8 Rounds

Adrian Corona – 134.3 lbs.

Jerry Perez – 134.9 lbs.

Referee: Thomas Taylor; Judges: Nathan Palmer (Ind.), Dr. Lou Moret (Calif.), Zachary Young (Calif.)

Heavyweight Bout – 8 Rounds

Frank Sanchez – 247.4 lbs.

Daniel Martz – 275 lbs.

Referee: Gerard White; Judges: Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Jerry Cantu (Calif.), Tiffany Clinton (Calif).

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Two more Hall of Famers are included on the telecast team – Emmy^® award winning reporter Jim Gray, and boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer. Michael C. Williams is the ring announcer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins, Jr. with Ray Smaltz III producing and Bob Dunphy, son of Hall of Fame boxing announcer Don Dunphy, directing. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) with former world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation^® commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as the expert analyst. The SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN show is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show host Luke Thomas.

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ABOUT FUNDORA VS. MENDOZA

Fundora vs. Mendoza will see undefeated super welterweight sensation Sebastián “The Towering Inferno” Fundora defend his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against rising contender Brian Mendoza on Saturday, April 8 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature undefeated super lightweight contender Brandun Lee taking on Mexico’s Pedro Campa in the 10-round co-main event, plus undefeated featherweights Luis Núñez and Christian Olivo square off in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

CARSON, CALIF – April 6, 2023 – Undefeated super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and rising contender Brian Mendoza squared off Thursday during the final press conference and promised explosive action when they meet for Fundora’s Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title this Saturday, April 8 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif.  headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The press conference also featured fighters competing on the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Also going face-to-face Thursday were undefeated super lightweight contender Brandun Lee and Mexico’s Pedro Campa, who meet in the 10-round co-main event, plus undefeated featherweights Luis Núñez and Christian Olivo, who duel in the 10-round telecast opener. It’s the second of back-to-back nights of boxing on SHOWTIME as SHOBOX: The New Generation^® kicks off on Friday, April 7 live at 10 p.m. ET/PT in Brooks, Calif.

Tickets for Saturday’s event headlined by Fundora vs. Mendoza and promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com.

Fundora has established himself as one of the  154-pound division’s most dangerous and exciting fighters, reinforcing his status by stopping Erickson Lubin last Aprill in one of 2022’s best fights. He returns to fight at Dignity Health Sports Park for his second-straight bout after dominating Carlos Ocampo at the venue last October and faces the fast-rising Mendoza, who scored a career-best win his last time out by knocking out the former unified champion Jeison Rosario in November.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the Westin LAX:

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“We’re just ready to put on a good show. It feels great to be fighting tough guys like Mendoza and that’s what I want to do again and again. I love fighting in front of these fans in Southern California.

“I think this is a great fight for these fans. The fans here are very demanding and a fight like this will give them their money’s worth.

“I’m becoming more comfortable in this role as a headliner. It’s given me a good kind of overwhelming feeling for some past fights, but I’ve been very relaxed this whole camp and I’m just ready to go.

“We’re just here to work. We’ve been working hard and we’re ready for another great performance on SHOWTIME and in Carson.

“[Undisputed Super Welterweight Champion] Jermell Charlo of course is the guy we want. Whoever falls in line though, we’ll take who we can get. The job is to beat the guy in front of you.

“My father Freddy is a mentor and leader for me and my sister Gabriela. We’re going to follow his lead and that’s what you need in this sport. It’s not only inside the ring, but because he’s our father, it’s outside the ring as well.

“This is all because of hard work and it’s all paying off. I see that the fans respect the way I fight and it just makes me want to fight harder.

“We’ve been in this position before. We’re here to win and we worked hard. We’re here to keep moving forward.

“Me and my dad have been watching fights from a couple years ago when I was a bit more aggressive and was taking guys out. Last time we went the distance and wanted to show more boxing, but this time we’re gonna show that new work.

“I’m getting older and I’m getting stronger. The punches are coming in nicely and I’m excited to showcase it on Saturday. I’m smarter and I know how to place my punches a lot better now.”

BRIAN MENDOZA

“I’m just super excited. In my last performance I was a big underdog and everyone saw the result. You can expect the same type of performance and result on Saturday night.

“This Saturday is everything. The win is everything. I’ve dedicated it all to this. I’ve had setbacks, but I’m proof that you just have to work hard. Now I’m in the main event and I’m looking to keep the journey going. This isn’t the end of the story.

“We moved out of New Mexico to Las Vegas to work with [trainer] Ismael Salas. I felt like there was another level I needed to hit. The chemistry I have with Salas has brought that out of me. Everything is finally lining up together beautifully.

“If he wants to fight inside and bang or use his distance, I’m ready. We trained for everything. We left no stone unturned. We’re ready to make the adjustments needed so we can get the job done.

“This is gonna be another explosive upset. I put everything into this camp. I sacrificed day in and day out. No matter how it comes, it’s gonna be explosive.

“I’ve seen all of Fundora’s fights and I’ve always had something in the back of my head that told me I was going to fight him. I was always ready and as soon as they called for this fight, there was no hesitation from me.

“My whole life has prepared me to face a fighter who’s unique physically like Fundora. Even when I was an amateur I used to help a tall UFC fighter Tim Means prepare for his fights and in this camp we brought in Mykal Fox who’s another tall and lanky guy. Everything has led up to this moment and I’m ready to take full advantage.

“When I moved to Las Vegas we basically broke everything down in my boxing game and started over from scratch. We perfected all the little things, fixed my bad habits and improved on some stuff I did well. I’m around legends, world champions, contenders and prospects constantly, so there’s too much knowledge not to soak it up out there.”

BRANDUN LEE

“I’m feeling great. I had an excellent training camp and I’m healthy. I can’t really ask for anything more heading into this fight.

“Styles make fights, so I’m not going to look at what Teofimo Lopez did against Campa. I’m bringing my own style and Campa is going to see something that he hasn’t seen before. I’m only focused on getting the win.

“I’ve been boxing since I was a young kid. Every time I step into the ring, it’s just another day in the office. Doesn’t matter if it’s King Kong or Godzilla in there.

“I can’t knock everybody out, but if it comes it comes. I’ve shown that I can go the distance, but if the opportunity is there, I’m going to end the night early.

“My father [Bobby Lee] and I have a great relationship because we have a lot of respect. When we’re in the gym, we’re student and teacher.

“Anybody can get it. I’m ready for the best fighters at 140 pounds. I’m in this sport to become a world champion. When the moment comes, I’ll go after that world title.

“In a perfect world I’m gonna win and leave it all in the ring. That’s the only thing on my mind.”

PEDRO CAMPA

“I’m very thankful for this opportunity. I know that I have to win this fight for greater things to come. If I want the best fights, I have to try my best to win this fight. I’ve prepared well and I’m coming to win.

“Fighting Teofimo Lopez was an invaluable experience. I showed what I’m worth and what I can do inside of the ring. On Saturday night, I come to win. Nothing else.

“Brandun is a good fighter, but it’s my job to go out there and give everything I’ve got in order to win. Nothing else matters right now.

“I came here to win. I’m ready to go all 10 rounds, but if the knockout comes, I’m ready. But all that matters is getting my hand raised.

“This is a difficult fight against an undefeated opponent, but I want the Mexican people to know that I’m going to win and we’re going to celebrate in Sonora when I come back.

“Brandun has fast hands and I really have to watch out for his straight right hand. If I can get Brandun to fight the way I want him to fight, I know I can knock him out.”

LUIS NUNEZ

“I feel both mentally and physically ready. I feel great. It’s gonna be a battle, but I’m ready for everything. This was an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up, so I’m going to do my best to give everyone a great show when I get into the ring.

“Christian is a fighter who presents a variety of challenges, but I have no problem fighting at any range or in any way. I trained hard and I’m ready to do whatever it takes to come out with the victory.

“On Saturday people are going to see what I’m all about. I know that I have to really stand out to impress people and get to the big fights that I want. It’s up to me to show the fans what I’m truly about.

“The last time I had a Mexican fighter saying that he’s from a storied Mexican boxing background, I made him eat his words. I have a feeling the same thing is happening this time around, or it might be even worse for him. You’ll have to tune in and see.”

CHRISTIAN OLIVO

“I’m really happy and excited to be on this stage with all of these quality fighters that are gonna give it their all. I’m ready and motivated to put on a great show Saturday night.

“This is nothing new to me, it’s a very important fight that’s a steppingstone. If I do what I want to do, I’ll be able to fight against the elite fighters in the featherweight division.

“I’m very motivated to be fighting at a venue where so many other Latin American and Mexican fighters have put on memorable fights. I want to put on a show for all the fans.

“I’m coming here for a knockout. That’s the goal and we’re going to take advantage if the opportunity comes.”

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ABOUT FUNDORA VS. MENDOZA

Fundora vs. Mendoza will see undefeated super welterweight sensation Sebastián “The Towering Inferno” Fundora defend his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against rising contender Brian Mendoza on Saturday, April 8 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature undefeated super lightweight contender Brandun Lee taking on Mexico’s Pedro Campa in the 10-round co-main event, plus undefeated featherweights Luis Núñez and Christian Olivo square off in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

CARSON, CALIF – April 6, 2023 – Three showdowns featuring a former two-division world champion, a two-time Olympian, an unbeaten heavyweight contender and more will highlight the SHOWTIME BOXING COUNTDOWN live streaming presentation  this Saturday, April 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Undefeated welterweight Gabriel Maestre will meet former welterweight and super lightweight champion Devon Alexander “The Great” in a 10-round matchup that tops action live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page. The lineup kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT and is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell.

Also featured on the live stream will be super featherweights Adrian Corona and Jerry Perez in an eight-round super featherweight duel and the return of unbeaten heavyweight contender Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sanchez in an eight-round bout against Daniel Martz.

The live stream will precede a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® tripleheader topped by undefeated super welterweight sensation Sebastián “The Towering Inferno” Fundora battling rugged contender Brian Mendoza in defense of Fundora’s Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com.

A two-time Olympian for his home country of Venezuela, Maestre (4-0-1, 3 KOs) had an extensive amateur run that included victories over Brian Castano, Carlos Adames, Alexander Besputin, Oscar Molina and Brian Ceballo. The 36-year-old made his U.S. debut with a controversial decision victory over Mykal Fox in August 2021 before most recently fighting fellow unbeaten Taras Shelestyuk to a draw last March. He takes on St. Louis, Missouri’s Alexander (27-7-1, 14 KOs), who returns to the ring for the first time since dropping an August 2021 clash to Luke Santamaria that saw Alexander fight through an early bicep injury to go the distance. A former two-division champion, Alexander owns impressive victories over Marcos Maidana, Lucas Matthysse and Randall Bailey, among others.

Fighting out of Rialto, California, Corona (9-1-1, 2 KOs) will look to bounce back after suffering his first career pro defeat to the unbeaten Pedro Valencia last August. The 23-year-old had been unbeaten across his first 10  fights after turning pro in 2018. He will face the 30-year-old Perez (14-2, 11 KOs), who trains alongside four-division champion Leo Santa Cruz and his family. A native of Harbor City, California, Perez’s only two pro blemishes have come against top lightweight contenders Frank Martin and Michel Rivera.

An amateur standout from his native Cuba, Sánchez (21-0, 14 KOs) now trains in California with renowned trainer Joe Goossen. The 30-year-old caught the heavyweight division’s attention when he scored a career-best win in October 2021, dropping the previously unbeaten Efe Ajagba on his way to a unanimous decision victory. Sanchez’s 2022 saw him earn a unanimous decision over Christian Hammer and a TKO of Puerto Rican Olympian Carlos Negron. He will be opposed by Clarksburg, West Virginia’s Martz (20-10-1, 17 KOs), who most recently lost to unbeaten Fabio Wardley in February 2022 and who has challenged former champions Charles Martin and Joseph Parker in a career that dates back to 2012.

The non-televised undercard will be highlighted by flyweight prospect Gabriela Fundora (10-0, 4 KOs), the younger sister of headliner Sebastian, in an eight-round showdown taking on Maria Santizo (11-2, 6 KOs), the return of heavyweight fan-favorite Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola (38-7-1, 33 KOs) in an eight-round bout against Matthew McKinney (13-6-3, 9 KOs), lightweight Viktor Slavinskyi (13-2-1, 6 KOs) taking on Dallas’ Juan Lopez (17-13-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round fight and unbeaten super featherweight Gabriel Garcia (8-0, 6 KOs) battling Florida’s Marco Diaz (6-1, 5 KOs) in a six-round attraction.

Rounding out the lineup is heavyweight prospect Federico Pacheco Jr. (2-0, 1 KO) matching up against Los Angeles’ Felipe Torres (0-1) in a four-round duel, super featherweight prospect Dorian Khan Jr. (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round tussle against California’s Ezra Rabin (1-1, 1 KO) and the pro debut of super featherweight Justin Villoria in a four-round bout with Arkansas’ Sirdarious Smith (0-1). 

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ABOUT FUNDORA VS. MENDOZA

Fundora vs. Mendoza will see undefeated super welterweight sensation Sebastián “The Towering Inferno” Fundora defend his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against rising contender Brian Mendoza on Saturday, April 8 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature undefeated super lightweight contender Brandun Lee taking on Mexico’s Pedro Campa in the 10-round co-main event, plus undefeated featherweights Luis  Núñez and Christian Olivo square off in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

CARSON, CALIF. – March 20, 2023 – Undefeated super welterweight sensation Sebastián “The Towering Inferno” Fundora and rising contender Brian Mendoza previewed their battle for Fundora’s Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title during a virtual press conference on Monday before they meet on Saturday, April 8 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Two more fights round out the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, as undefeated super lightweight contender Brandun Lee takes on Mexico’s Pedro Campa in the 10-round co-main event, while undefeated featherweights Luis “The Twist” Núñez and Christian Olivo square off in the 10-round telecast opener.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com.

Fundora has established himself as a must-see contender on the rise, engaging in exciting clash after exciting clash, including one of 2022’s best fights, an instant classic that saw him stop top contender Erickson Lubin. He will face the upset-minded Mendoza, who scored a career-best victory last time out by knocking out former unified champion Jeison Rosario.

Here is what the fighters had to say Monday:

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“I feel like I’ve been proving myself over and over again. We’re waiting for our shot to fight for the title. They keep putting guys in front of me who they say will knock me out or expose me, but I keep proving them wrong.

“Camp has been really good for me. We’ve been training hard and getting ready for another exciting fight in Carson. Just expect fireworks. I’m bringing my best, so I hope he brings his best.

“I’m always ready to go toe-to-toe. Everyone I fought has been strong guys and Mendoza is another. We’re just going to go for the win like always.

“This fight is as important as every other fight before. Mendoza is a contender as well and we’re not looking at him lightly. We have to get past Mendoza if we want to even think of fighting for the championship.

“Mendoza had a great performance in his last fight and he looked strong. I didn’t see anything different from him really. We knew he was strong.

“I’m just building up. My dad and I had plans that we talked about and we talked about contending and fighting for a title around this age. Things are working out. We’re where we want to be and just looking to get that title fight soon.

“We’re going to have to see what he brings on April 8. I have to prove myself again. We both have chips on our shoulders. We want to become champions and we have to win on April 8 to do so.

“I feel like some people are trying to skip me in order for the title, but I’m remaining patient and staying focused on this fight. I just have to keep moving forward while everything else gets dealt with.

“I’m using my jab and using my distance more. I’ve always been able to do it, but I’m more comfortable with it now. Lubin was really in my chest, so the fight didn’t really call for it. Against Ocampo I was able to use those skills more.

“We never pick anybody, I just get the assignment and go for it. Mendoza is coming off a big win and we said ‘heck yeah’ to the fight. It’s a good fight for the fans and a good fight for us.  

“Mendoza is gonna find out that I’m the next world champion at super welterweight.”

BRIAN MENDOZA

“When I said I was going to add a former unified champion to my resume, people scoffed and laughed at me. I just thought, ‘Okay, keep laughing.’ You don’t have to believe me. I’m going to show you with my actions. That’s what I’m going to do in this fight. I’m gonna show that I’m one of the best in this division. That’s the goal. I’m going to pull off another big upset.

“Fans can expect another explosive performance. I’ve had a tremendous camp and I’ve been killing myself day in and day out, suffering every single day making sure that I leave no stone unturned. We’re just ready to go. I wish the fight was tomorrow.

“I’ve sacrificed so much in camp to make sure that I’m ready for whatever happens on fight night. If he tries to use his range or he tries to bang like usual, we’ll be ready for anything. I’ve had great preparation, even sparring with cruiserweights in this camp. It’s a cliché, but I will truly be ready for anything.

“His height isn’t going to be an issue. I’ve been fighting and sparring guys taller than me my whole life. I’m usually the shorter guy at 154 pounds anyways. It doesn’t make a difference. I haven’t had any trouble in sparring with guys who try to keep me away or with guys who try to overpower me because they’re bigger. I have too much experience and that’s what’s going to be the difference.

“I’m not going to go in there and play to his strengths. It’s about me proving who I am to the world. The experience that I have right now is unreal. These last five years in Vegas have been tremendous. People think I’m just a hard-hitter, but I’m going to show the world otherwise.

“We’re going to hear, ‘And the new interim WBC Super Welterweight World Champion.’ Fundora is going to learn that I’m a lot more than just a power-puncher.

“A win in this fight would mean everything. I’m trying to get to that next level and I finally feel like I have the right team around me. I feel like I have the right experience and I’m in my prime. I’m entering my prime and the time is now.

“Fighting at Dignity Health Sports Park is an honor. It’s a legendary place. Tons of wars have happened there. I want to cement my name as part of one of those wars and one of those big fights that went down there. This could be a Fight of the Year type of fight. Neither of us are going to take a step back.

“I just gained a lot of great experience in the Jeison Rosario fight. He was a former unified world champion. I picked up some tricks and tips from the fight but the biggest thing I took was just the experience of being in the ring with somebody like that. 

“I’m honestly kind of enjoying the whole ‘B-side’ experience. It just makes the victory that much sweeter.”

#         #         #

ABOUT FUNDORA VS. MENDOZA

Fundora vs. Mendoza will see undefeated super welterweight sensation Sebastián “The Towering Inferno” Fundora defend his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against rising contender Brian Mendoza on Saturday, April 8 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature undefeated super lightweight contender Brandun Lee taking on Mexico’s Pedro Campa in the 10-round co-main event, plus undefeated featherweights Luis “The Twist” Núñez and Christian Olivo square off in the 10-round telecast opener.

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

CARSON, CALIF. – March 6, 2023 – Undefeated super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will defend his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against rising contender Brian Mendoza on Saturday, April 8 live on SHOWTIME from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature undefeated super lightweight contender Brandun Lee taking on Mexico’s Pedro Campa in the 10-round co-main event, plus undefeated featherweights Luis “The Twist” Núñez and Christian Olivo square off in the 10-round telecast opener.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, go on sale tomorrow, Tuesday, March 7 at 12 p.m. PT and can be purchased at axs.com.

“Sebastian Fundora has established himself as one of boxing’s must-see attractions, as he brings an all-action demeanor every time he steps into the ring, combined with an ability to end a fight at any time,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Coming off a career-best win, Brian Mendoza will be highly motivated to slow down Fundora’s momentum, which should make for great action at the always electric Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson. Adding in another action-fighter in Brandun Lee taking on Pedro Campa, and a pair of unbeaten featherweights in the TV opener, and April 8 lines up to be another memorable night on SHOWTIME.”

Fundora (20-0-1, 13 KOs) has rocketed to the top of the super welterweight division with a fan-friendly style and bruising toughness in the ring. At 6-foot-6, the unbeaten 25-year-old southpaw from Coachella, Calif., towers over his opponents, but has displayed an appetite for toe-to-toe combat from short range. Fundora showed his mettle in April 2022, battling the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin in an instant 2022 Fight of the Year contender. Despite both men hitting the canvas, Fundora stood tall in the end, prompting Lubin’s corner to stop the fight at the end of the ninth round. Fundora returned last October at Dignity Health Sports Park, dominating the streaking Carlos Ocampo to win a wide unanimous decision.

“I’m well-prepared for this matchup,” said Fundora. “I’m training hard, as usual, and I’m ready to put on a great show for the fans in Carson all over again. We expect a great fight from Mendoza. I hope he brings his best so that we can give the fans their money’s worth. Every single fight is important, so we’re going in there to win and get to where I want to be, and that’s world champion of the 154-pound division.”

Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Mendoza (21-2, 15 KOs) now fights out of Las Vegas and will return to 154 pounds after knocking out former unified champion Jeison Rosario in the fifth-round of their middleweight clash in November. The 29-year-old, who trains under the tutelage of renowned trainer Ismael Salas, has won back-to-back fights after taking highly touted knockout artist Jesus Ramos the 10-round distance in a losing decision in September 2021. Mendoza also owns a 10-round unanimous decision triumph over Thomas LaManna in August 2020 and began his career with eighteen consecutive victories.

“I have another big opportunity in front of me on April 8,” said Mendoza. “Just like in my last fight, I’m embracing the role of underdog so I can shock the world. I’m not satisfied with just fighting for a world title, I’m going to keep working day after day until I walk out of the ring with that belt wrapped around my waist. Sleep on me at your own risk, because I’m coming for everything.”

La Quinta, California’s Lee (27-0, 23 KOs) has stopped 16 of his last 18 opponents, including a four-round destruction of Diego Luque in January. The 23-year-old has also shown his boxing acumen in winning a pair of 10-round decisions in 2022, besting Zachary Ochoa in April and Will Madera in August. Trained by his father Bobby, Lee was also an accomplished amateur, going an estimated 195 amateur fights with only five losses and capturing gold at the prestigious 2015 U.S. Junior National Championships at 145 pounds.

“This is my first co-main event, so it’s important for me to go and show the boxing world who Brandun Lee is and where I belong in the division,” said Lee. “Pedro Campa is a true Mexican veteran who can take a punch but also give one, so I have to be alert at all times. The fans can expect an explosive performance from me. I’m looking forward to performing in front of my family and friends but most importantly, I’m looking forward to being under those bright lights on April 8.”

The 31-year-old Campa (34-2-1, 23 KOs) had an eight-fight unbeaten streak snapped in his last outing, as he dropped an August 2022 showdown against former world champion Teofimo Lopez. A native of Guaymas, Sonora, Mexico, Campa stopped eight of his first nine opponents after turning pro in 2011 and owns an impressive stateside win over Aaron Herrera in 2015. Campa stopped previously unbeaten fighters Abimel Bautista and Carlos Valadez in back-to-back contests to earn the fight against Lopez.

“I’m very motivated to be on a great card like this,” said Campa. “I’ve seen a little bit of Brandun Lee and I have a good idea of what I need to do to win this fight. I’m ready to face the best version of Lee and show that I have the experience and strength to come out victorious. My plan is to have my hand raised on April 8 and give the people in my hometown of Guaymas something to celebrate.”

After piling up an 85-5 amateur record, Núñez (18-0, 13 KOs) turned pro in 2018 and has shown impressive skill in amassing his unbeaten pro resume. Fighting out of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, Núñez made his U.S. debut in September 2021 by winning a unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Jayvon Garnett on SHOBOX: The New Generation^® and followed up that performance by taking down another undefeated fighter, as he stopped Carlos Arrieta in the 10^th round of their January showdown, also on SHOBOX^®. Núñez made it three unbeatens in a row in May 2022, as he won a unanimous decision over Jonathan Fierro, before most recently stopping Renson Robles last December.

“I’m very thankful to be back for another opportunity on SHOWTIME,” said Núñez. “I’m coming to represent my people of the Dominican Republic as a proud warrior. Olivo is an excellent fighter and this will be a tough fight, but my experience, my strength and my skills will twist things my way.”

A native of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, Olivo (20-0-1, 7 KOs) will be making his U.S. debut when he steps into the ring on April 8. The 24-year-old turned pro as a teenager in December 2017 and has steadily racked up wins since a split-draw in his sixth pro fight. Olivo added two wins to his ledger in 2022, sweeping a pair of fights on all three judges’ scorecards each time out. His most recent triumph saw him earn a unanimous decision over the previously unbeaten Carlos Jaquez last September.

“I’m thrilled to be making my U.S. debut on such a big stage,” said Olivo. “I’m thankful to my team for giving me this chance. I believe that our styles will make a great fight and that in the end, the fans will be the winners. I’m going to give everything I have in the ring to make the public remember my name. I’m going up against a great fighter, but I’m ready for this challenge.”

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

Sebastian Fundora remained undefeated with a 12-round unanimous decision over Carlos Ocampo to retain the WBC Interim Super Welterweight title at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

Fundora, 153,5 lbs of Coachella, CA won by scores of 119-109, 118-110 and 117-111 and is now 20-0-1. Ocampo, 153.5 lbs of Ensanda, MEX 34-2.

Adames Stops Montiel in 3; Wins Interim Middleweight Title

Carlos Adames won the WBC Interim Middleweight title with a third round stoppage over Juan Macias Montiel.

In round three, Adames landed a hard uppercut that hurt Montiel. Adames drove Montiel to the ropes and landed a chopping right hook and a vicious uppercut that forced a referee stoppage at 2:37.

Adames, 159.25 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 22-1 with 17 knockouts. Montiel, 160 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is 23-6-2.

Martinez Decisions Ancajas Again to Retain 115 lb. Title

Fernando Martinez second his second straight unanimous decision over former champion Jerwin Ancajas to retain the IBF junior bantamweight title.

In round seven, Ancjas was cut on his forehead from an accidental headbutt.

Martinez, 114.75 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG won by scores of 119-109 and 118-110 and is now 15-0. Ancajas, 114.75 lbs of Panabo City, PHL is 33-3-2.

WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title – 12 Rounds

Sebastian Fundora – 153 ½ lbs.

Carlos Ocampo – 153 ½ lbs.

Referee: Jack Reiss; Judges: Daniel Fitzgerald (Massachusetts), Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Lou Moret (Calif.)

WBC Middleweight Interim Title – 12 Rounds

Carlos Adames – 159 ¼ lbs. 

Juan Macias Montiel – 160 lbs.

Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Pat Russell (Calif.), Jerry Cantu (Calif.), Josef Mason (Colo.)

IBF Junior Bantamweight World Title – 12 Rounds

Fernando Martinez – 114 ¾ lbs.

Jerwin Ancajas – 114 ¾ lbs.

Referee: Eddie Hernandez Sr.; Judges: Zachary Young (Calif.), Tiffany Clinton (Calif.), Ellis Johnson (Texas)

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING PRELIMS

Stream Live at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT

on the SHOWTIME SPORTS^® YouTube Channel

Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Egidijus Kavaliauskas – 147 lbs.

Mykal Fox – 145 ¾ lbs.

Referee: Gerard White; Judges: Ivan Guillermo (Calif.), Jerry Cantu (Calif.), Ralph McKnight (Calif.)

Featherweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Victor Slavinksyi – 126 ½ lbs.

Edward Vazquez – 129 ½ lbs.

Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Pat Russell (Calif.), Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Ralph McKnight (Calif.)

** Contracted weight 127 lbs.; Fight is on.

Women’s Flyweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Gabriela Fundora – 111 ¼ lbs.

Naomi Reyes – 111 ½ lbs.

Referee: Eddie Hernandez Sr.; Judges: Pat Russell (Calif.), Ivan Guillermo (Calif.), Ralph McKnight (Calif.)

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers round out the telecast team – Emmy^® award winning reporter Jim Gray, world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr. and boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins, Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing. Former junior middleweight world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation^® commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna serve as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP). SHOBOX announcer and combat sports expert

Brian Campbell and his MORNING KOMBAT co-host Luke Thomas will call the action during the live-stream bouts.  

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ABOUT FUNDORA VS. OCAMPO

Fundora vs. Ocampo will see unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora seek to continue his dominance and demonstrate why he’s one of the most feared fighters in boxing when he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly-anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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

CARSON, CALIF. – October 6, 2022 – Unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora promised to deliver another memorable night of action at Thursday’s final press conference before he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.

Thursday’s press conference also featured top middleweight Juan Macias Montiel, who squares off against Carlos Adames for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, plus IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez and former world champion Jerwin Ancajas, who meet in a rematch that kicks off the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The event also saw rising unbeaten flyweight prospect Gabriela Fundora, the younger sister of headliner Sebastian, as she prepares to kick off a three-fight live streaming presentation on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT in a 10-round fight against Mexico’s Naomi Reyes.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Westin LAX as they near their respective showdowns this Saturday night:

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“I feel like I proved to the people that I’m an elite fighter. I can hang with anyone and I can stop them as well. I showed that I have what it takes to become a world champion.

“I’m just going to put on a great performance for the fans. We trained really hard in camp. I’m only worried about what I do in the ring.

“I’m going to keep sending the same message as always, and that’s saying clearly that I’m going to become a world champion at 154 pounds.

“I can guarantee the fans get their money’s worth. We put on a great show every single time, but now that I’m headlining my own show, I’m really going to make sure I put it all on the line. Plus, with my sister on the card, it’s just more motivation to perform.

“I’m excited to be in this position. I’ve fought on a lot of big undercards as well and now it’s my time to take center stage.

“I don’t pay attention to any hype. Everyone has their own opinion, but I’m fighting for the people that support me and I’m going to reward them with something memorable.

“I’ve shown that I have a strong uppercut, but we worked on a lot of different things in this training camp. We work on everything and we work on being consistent so that we can break our opponent down.

“Ocampo might come into this fight to display his boxing skills, or he might come on the inside looking to exchange. I’m confident in my corner and how we prepared and it’s going to show in the ring.”

CARLOS OCAMPO

“I’m feeling better than ever right now. I’m ready for what’s going to be a great challenge. This is going to be a war on Saturday night.

“You have to take the opportunities that you’re given. I know that Fundora is a strong fighter, but I’m going to be ready for him.

“I’m going to lean on my preparation and training. I’m strong just like Sebastian is. I’m going to have to stick to my training and the results will come with that.

“I’m really proud to represent Mexico on the big stage. That’s my duty and that’s my job on Saturday night. The Mexican fans are all the way behind me and I feel their support

“I want the fans to know that I’m fighting for them. I’ve put in the work day in and day out in training camp, so I know I have to make the most of it. You’re not going to want to miss this one.

“My goal is to wake up on Sunday morning and have it be the happiest day of my life. I want to party with that belt on Saturday night.

“This is going to be a spectacular fight. There are going to be fireworks on Saturday night.”

JUAN MACIAS MONTIEL

“My fight against Jermall Charlo gave me a lot of experience and a lot of confidence. I learned a lot. I came out on my feet and showed that I could go toe-to-toe with the best fighter in the division.

“Every fighter has to be confident. I’m glad Adames is confident. But I have the utmost confidence in myself and I’m ready to be the very best version of myself on Saturday night.

“My record speaks for itself. I’ll be ready to knock him out. But if we go 12 rounds, I’m prepared for it. We worked hard so that I’ll be able to take on any challenge that comes my way.

“We’re going to go in there and leave it all in the ring. I already showed that I can take a shot from the best. I don’t know if we can say the same about my opponent, but we’re going to find out Saturday.

“I’m only focused on this fight. A rematch with Jermall Charlo is of course what I want, but I can’t get there unless I win spectacularly in this fight. Saturday night is my time to prove myself.”

FERNANDO MARTINEZ

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to be showcased once again on this stage. You can expect another all-out war. We’re going to put on a show and give the fans a great fight on Saturday night.

“It’s going to be a hard fight, but being the champion is a responsibility that I take with humility. I have to keep my feet on the ground and make the fans in Argentina happy. The only way to do that is to give it my all on Saturday night and defend my title.

“I have a plan A and a plan B. We’ll be ready for absolutely anything. It’s going to be another great show for fans all over the world. Everyone is going to be happy that they tuned into this fight.

“I’m very motivated for this fight, as much or more than the first time we fought. We’re familiar with each other now, but I’m not taking anything for granted.”

JERWIN ANCAJAS

“I’m very happy to be back here in this position. We worked really hard in training and got ourselves in great condition so that we can get our belt back.

“I was not in as good of shape in our last fight. I fought toe-to-toe because my legs were cramping in the fight. Now we’ve prepared for what he does in the ring and we’ll be ready to reclaim our belt.

“This will be a big win for me and for my country. I want to bring this belt back home and be a proud champion for the Philippines.

“I can’t wait to get in the ring. Winning my title back is all I’ve been thinking about since we first fought. I know I have what it takes and I’m going to prove it on Saturday night.”

GABRIELA FUNDORA

“It’s very exciting to be here in our hometown fighting together. It doesn’t happen very often. We’re going to bring fireworks and I hope the fans enjoy it.

“The fans should expect a lot of action. We worked really hard in training camp and it’s going to show up in the ring on fight night.

“From what I’ve seen I’m facing a good defensive fighter, but we prepared for that kind of style. I’m very confident with the work we put in at the gym.

“It’s really cool to be fighting on the live stream before my brother’s show. I know that I enjoy watching myself fight and I feel like the fans are going to enjoy it as well.”

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ABOUT FUNDORA VS. OCAMPO

Fundora vs. Ocampo will see unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora seek to continue his dominance and demonstrate why he’s one of the most feared fighters in boxing when he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly-anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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

CARSON, CALIF. – October 6, 2022 – Three exciting showdowns featuring contenders and rising prospects will stream live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME^® Boxing Facebook page this Saturday, October 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif.

With action kicking off at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT, the COUNTDOWN show, hosted by Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, features veteran welterweight contenders Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas and Mykal Fox squaring off in a 10-round bout. Featherweight contenders Viktor Slavinskyi and Edward Vazquez also meet in an eight-round duel, while unbeaten flyweight prospect Gabriela Fundora, the younger sister of unbeaten headliner Sebastian Fundora, kicks off the show battling Mexico’s Naomi Reyes in a 10-round fight.

The preliminary bouts will lead up to a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT featuring Interim WBC Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora defending his belt against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo in the main event.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com.

The stacked non-televised undercard lineup also includes unbeaten lightweight prospects Justin Cardona (8-0, 6 KOs) and Angel Alejandro (10-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round matchup, Filipino Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial (2-0, 1 KO) taking on Steven Pichardo (8-2-1, 2 KOs) in a four-round middleweight attraction and super welterweight Brandon Lynch (11-1-1, 8 KOs) facing Argentina’s Roque Junco (11-12-1, 6 KOs) for eight-rounds of action.

Rounding out the card will be unbeaten Phoenix-native Elijah Garcia (11-0, 9 KOs) battling Mexico’s Edgar Valenzuela (7-1, 6 KOs) in a six-round middleweight duel, unbeaten featherweight Shon Mondragon (7-0-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round bout and featherweight Jose Perez (10-1-2, 4 KOs) stepping into the ring for a six-round showdown.

A two-time Olympian for his native Lithuania, Kavaliauskas (22-2-1, 18 KOs) now fights out of California as he seeks a second shot at a 147-pound world title. The 34-year-old came up short in his first attempt, dropping a 2019 title bout against Terence Crawford before most recently losing to unbeaten Vergil Ortiz Jr. in August 2021. He will be opposed by Maryland’s Fox (22-3, 5 KOs), who returns to the ring after dropping a controversial decision to Gabriel Maestre in August 2021. Standing at nearly six-feet-four-inches tall, the 26-year-old has used his size and boxing acumen to establish himself as a crafty contender in a pro career that dates back to 2014.

Originally from Ukraine and residing in Los Angeles, Slavinskyi (13-1-1, 6 KOs) will look to bounce back from his first defeat on October 8, which came via majority decision against hard-hitting contender Claudio Marrero in February. The 32-year-old had previously ridden a six-bout winning streak into that fight, which included a decision triumph over Leduan Barthelemy in June 2021. He will face the 27-year-old Vazquez (12-1, 3 KOs), a Fort Worth, Texas-native who most recently defeated Jose Argel in July. Vazquez’s only blemish came via split-decision against the unbeaten Raymond Ford in February.

Trained by her father Freddy alongside her brother Sebastian, Fundora (8-0, 4 KOs) has impressed since turning pro in May 2021, dominating her competition on her way to eight early wins. The 20-year-old from Coachella, Calif., will return to Dignity Health Sports Park for the third time after earning her first two pro victories at the venue. She will battle Nayarit, Mexico’s Reyes (9-1, 5 KOs), who turned pro in 2016 and suffered her only loss via decision in 2018. Since then, Reyes has put together five-straight victories, with four coming by stoppage.

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ABOUT FUNDORA VS. OCAMPO

Fundora vs. Ocampo will see unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora seek to continue his dominance and demonstrate why he’s one of the most feared fighters in boxing when he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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

 COACHELLA, CALIF. – September 30, 2022 – Unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora offered a clear warning to the rest of the 154-pound division as he prepares to defend his interim WBC title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

“Everyone in the division has to watch out,” said Fundora. “Because I’m coming. I’m definitely not overlooking this opponent, but whenever I get that title chance, I’m ready for it.”

Already considered perhaps the most exciting fighter in the sport at just 24-years-old, Fundora explained the mentality that has allowed him to thrill fight fans time and time again.

“A lot of people who come out to these fights are working class and they spend their hard-earned money to go watch a good fight, and that’s what I want to deliver,” said Fundora. “I fight for the fans. Without the fans, boxing is not the same.”

For this fight, Coachella, California’s Fundora will share the stage with his younger sister, 20-year-old rising flyweight Gabriela Fundora, who competes in an undercard bout at Dignity Health Sports Park. Although it will be the first time they share a card, Sebastian is confident that the training from their father Freddy will allow each to focus on their individual tasks.

“We always train together, so preparing to fight on the same date didn’t require any adjustments or changes really,” said Fundora. “My sister is going to fight before me and I’ll be focused on my fight, even while watching her. We’ve trained all camp so that I know what I’m supposed to be doing at that moment. I’ll definitely be ready by the time it’s my moment to get in the ring.

“This opportunity shows that the hard work me and my sister have been putting in, is really paying off. I’m already in a comfortable spot in my career, but it really shows how her hard work has gotten her to this platform.”

Fundora’s stock skyrocketed after his most recent outing, which saw him claim the vacant Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title by stopping Erickson Lubin after nine rounds, in a memorable bout on SHOWTIME in April that is a certain contender for 2022 Fight of the Year. Despite the career-best victory, Fundora saw the outcome as him simply proving what he already believed about himself.

“I feel like I didn’t learn anything in my last fight, I just went out there and proved what I already knew to everyone,” said Fundora. “In that camp we were focused on showing everyone that I’m an elite fighter at 154 pounds.”

The 6-foot-6 Fundora also showed an ability to overcome adversity in the duel against Lubin, and wisdom beyond his years. After dropping his opponent in round two and racing out to an early lead, Fundora was on the receiving end of a vicious onslaught from Lubin in round seven and elected to take a knee to recuperate. Between rounds nine and 10, Lubin’s corner was forced to throw in the towel after Fundora rose to his feet and regained control of the action.

“I never had a doubt in my mind during the Lubin fight,” said Fundora. “If I doubted myself, I would not be here right now. I had the composure to use my brain and take a knee during that fight. I got hit with a good punch and I was like, ‘let me take a little breather’, instead of getting hit like that again. I used my intelligence.”

On October 8, Fundora makes the first defense of his interim title against the rising Mexican contender Ocampo, who enters the fight on a 12-bout winning streak. Since a 2018 loss to unified welterweight world champion Errol Spence Jr., Ocampo has moved up in weight and reeled off win after win to earn another shot at a top fighter. Fundora expects that motivation, combined with the Baja Californian’s aggressive style, to equal memorable action for everyone watching.

“Ocampo is a big, Mexican 154-pounder,” said Fundora. “He’s been at this weight for a while now and I know he’s coming in hungry. It’s his second chance on the big stage and I’m eager to see what he brings to the ring. I’m ready for him to bring his best. He’s going to be an aggressive fighter with a classic Mexican style. This is a perfect fight for Southern California. What more could you want?”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com.

#         #         #

ABOUT FUNDORA VS. OCAMPO

Fundora vs. Ocampo will see unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora seek to continue his dominance and demonstrate why he’s one of the most feared fighters in boxing when he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly-anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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

CARSON, CALIF. – September 14, 2022 – Unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora and former title challenger Carlos Ocampo previewed their showdown for Fundora’s Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title during a virtual press conference Wednesday before they meet live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly-anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com.

One of the sport’s most exciting fighters, Fundora returns to the ring after emerging victorious in an instant Fight of the Year contender in April on SHOWTIME, as he rose from the canvas to stop the hard-hitting Erickson Lubin. He will look to solidify his status at 154 pounds against the streaking Mexican contender Carlos Ocampo, who has won 12-straight bouts since a 2018 defeat to unified welterweight world champion Errol Spence Jr.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“I’m very excited. I was in the main event last time, but I’m really the headliner this time and I’m even more excited to show off in front of my fans in Southern California. I’m just ready to fight.

“I showed the fans what I was made of in my last fight. It wasn’t really what I learned. My goal was to display myself and what I’m capable of for the fans. I really wanted to show who I am in this division. I’m serious about becoming world champion.

“I think that Ocampo is a strong Mexican fighter like me, so of course he’s going to come to bang. This is the perfect fight not just for the fans in Southern California, but for everyone watching.

“I’m used to the venue fighting there before. If you’re not bringing action, the fans will tell you right away. They’ll fight in the stands themselves. It’s a good crowd and I’m excited to put on a show.

“Before I got knocked down against Lubin, that round was all me I felt. I got hit with a good punch, I took a knee and just needed to get my energy back. The round right after that I was back to being me.

“I can fight anywhere. I can fight in my backyard, it’s the same thing for me. I’m there to focus on the fight itself and on putting on a great show for everyone.

“I want to fight for the title and I feel like I deserve that. I’m the WBC mandatory and of course I have to get past Ocampo first. But our goal is to fight for the title.

“I’ve been ready for the title, but we have to stay busy. I have to take hard fights like this to continue to grow. Ocampo is a ranked fighter and he’ll help me get to where I want to be.

“When it comes to the ring I feel like my Mexican blood comes out. I’m learning more about the Mexican culture and I’m excited to face another Mexican fighter. Two Mexicans headlining on SHOWTIME is great for Southern California.

“I’m just focused on my career, not what the champion is doing. I know that it’s going to take care of itself. We want to keep fighting and stay busy so that when the challenge presents itself, we can take it with no problem.

“We’ve been watching Ocampo and we’ve noticed that he’s been on a long win streak. Of course we’re not going to let it continue. We know he’s going to bring it and hopefully we can give the fans another great fight.”

CARLOS OCAMPO

“I feel great and I feel ready. I’m extremely confident in the training camp that I’ve been having in this fight. I’m in great shape and prepared to get in the ring.

“I thought Sebastian fought really well against Lubin. It was a dynamic and entertaining fight. I enjoyed watching it for sure. But I think he fits my style really well. With two Mexican fighters inside the ring, you’re going to see fireworks.

“We’re both fighters who like to get inside and we’re not afraid to exchange and brawl. We give the fans what they want and I know they’re going to be happy with what they see on October 8.

“I want to show people that I’m hungrier than ever. I’m here to win the title and I’m going after it with all my might. I want to grab that title and bring it back home to Mexico where it belongs.

“I made a rookie mistake in the Spence fight. I got careless at the end of the first round and I promise that it won’t happen again. I’m moving forward, but I’ve become a better fighter because of it.

“The biggest lesson that I’ve learned is that I need to be more cerebral and that I have to think through things more. I learned that being careless for one second can cost me. It was a tough lesson to learn, but I won’t make the same mistake again.

“I just work hard and keep my mind set on only one thing. That’s the world title. It’s my obsession and it’s what I want more than anything in the world.

“I’m definitely feeling underestimated. It’s funny how one mistake four years ago can shape the perception that people have of me. I’m a completely different person and you’re going to see how much I’ve matured both physically and mentally. We’re going to give you a great fight that you won’t want to miss.

“Being an underdog definitely motivates me and everyone is going to see how well I’ve trained for this fight. My entire focus is on October 8 and I haven’t thought about anything that could happen after that.

“This is going to be a spectacular card from top to bottom. You’re going to see great clashes and a real war in the main event. Make sure you tune in.

“I feel stronger and faster at super welterweight. This weight just fits me like a glove and I’m going to show everyone why on October 8.”

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