Keyshawn Davis did not care that Gustavo Lemos came in over six pounds overweight. He had no hesitation in taking the fight. He knew what was coming. Davis took out Lemos in round two of their lightweight bout in front of a sold-out crowd of 10,568 at The Scope Arena in Davis’ hometown of Norfolk, Virginia.

In round two, Davis dropped Lemos with a hard counter right. Seconds later, it was another even more powerful left hook that dumped Lemos on the deck. Davis finished off Lemos with another left that put him down and the fight was waved off as Lemos fell to the canvas at 1:08.

Davis 134.2 lbs of Norfolk, VA is 12-0 with eight knockouts. Lemos, 141.4 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 29-2.

“I had no hesitation. Me and my team, we stuck to our guns. We said if he comes in too much over we ain’t gonna fight. But he followed his game plan, and he didn’t come too much over (at the weight check on Friday morning), so we had a fight and we gave a spectacular night,” Davis said. “I didn’t feel no power in him. I actually sat back on the ropes one little second, and I let him throw his overhand that he loves and I felt it on my shoulder. And I looked at my brothers and gave them that face like, no, not enough (power). It ended in the second round so maybe he didn’t really get a chance to hit me.”

Troy Isley Decisions Tyler Howard

Troy Isley remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Tyler Howard in a middleweight bout.

Isley, 158.9 lbs oof Alexandria, VA won by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 and is now 14-0. Howard, 159.8 lbs of Crossville, TN is 20-2.

Isley landed 143 of 460 punches. Howard was 69 of 256.

Abdullah Mason had to get off the deck twice and came back to stop Yohan Vasquez in round two of their 10-round lightweight fight.

In the first minute of the fight, Vasquez dropped Mason for the first time in his career with a short left hand on the inside. Mason evened things up quickly as seconds later Mason dropped Vasquez with an uppercut. As Mason seemingly went for the finish, he walked into another short left hook and Mason sent down again. In round two, Mason dropped Vasquez with an uppercut to the body and the fight was over at 1:59.

Mason, 135.7 lbs of Cleveland is now 16-0 with eight knockouts. Vasquez, 134.2 lbs of Santiago, DR is 26-6.

Kelvin Davis remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Yeis Solano in a junior welterweight bout.

In round eight Davis put Solano on the deck with a straight right hand just before the final bell sounded.

Davis, 142.5 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 80-71 and 79-72 twice and is now 14-0. Solano, 142.7 lbs of Monteria, COL is 15-4.

Austin DeAnda pounded out an eight-round unanimous decision over DeAundre Pettus in a middleweight bout.

DeAnda, 159.9 lbs of Amhurst, VA won by scores of 78-74 and 77-75 twice and is now 16-0. Pettus, 158.3 lbs of South Carolina is 12-3.

Keon Davis made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Jalen Moore in a welterweight bout.

Davis, 148;7 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 40-36 on al cards and is now 1-0. Moore, 150.4 lbs of Dallas is 1-2.

Robert Merriweather III remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Eric Howard in a Junior Lightweight bout.

Merriweather, 131.7 lbs of Louisville, KY won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice and is now 8-0. Howard, 131.4 lbs of St. Louis is 6-3.

Raesse Aleem won a 10-round unanimous decision over Derlyn Hernandez in a featherweight bout.

In round three, Hernandez was cut over the left eye from an accidental headbutt. In round five, Aleem dropped Hernandez with a combination around the head.

Aleem, 126.9 lbs of Muskegon, MI won by scores of 100-89 on all cards and is now 21-1. Hernandez, 126.9 lbs of Dominican Republic is 12-3-1-1.

NORFOLK, Va. (Nov. 6, 2024) — The long-awaited homecoming for Keyshawn Davis (11-0, 7 KOs), the fighting pride of Norfolk and the Seven Cities, is in full swing. 

The lightweight contender and U.S. Olympic silver medalist will make his main event debut this Friday, Nov. 8, at Norfolk’s Scope Arena, where he’ll take on Argentina-born powerhouse Gustavo Lemos (29-1, 19 KOs) in a 10-round showdown.

Davis will top the most significant boxing card at the storied venue since Norfolk legend Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker defended his welterweight crown against Buddy McGirt in October 1994. At Wednesday’s press conference, Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander, Ph.D, joined the hometown hero on the dais. A sold-out crowd is expected for the 757’s latest superstar.

In the 10-round middleweight co-feature, Troy Isley (13-0, 5 KOs) will lock horns with Tyler Howard (20-1, 11 KOs). Since joining forces with Brian “BoMac” McIntyre before his win over Vladimir Hernandez last November, Isley has secured victories this year against Marcos Hernandez in March and longtime amateur rival Javier Martinez in June.

Davis-Lemos and Isley Howard will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ at approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The undercard — also streaming live on ESPN+ — will start at 6:20 p.m. ET/3:20 p.m. PT.

Keyshawn’s two brothers will also be featured. His older brother, junior welterweight contender Kelvin Davis (13-0, 7 KOs), will fight Yeis Solano (15-3, 10 KOs) in an eight-rounder, while his younger brother, Keon Davis, makes his professional debut in a four-round junior middleweight tilt versus Jalen Moore (1-1, 1 KO).

Promoted by Top Rank, the remaining tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.

This is what the fighters had to say at the press conference.

Keyshawn Davis 

“This means a lot to all three of us and, of course, to the city. There’s been a 30-year dry spell {of boxing}. And God had it written that we would come back to the city.”

“We’re doing this in a major way. We’ve already sold 10,000 tickets, and we’re going to sell some more. It’s going to be a treat on Friday.”

It’s super important for me to put on a show. Every single time I get in that ring, I love putting on shows. I like having fun, but I also like the people around me to have fun. I’m a dramatic fighter. I like doing the unexpected, so expect that Friday night.”

“It’s not going to be beautiful. There’s going to be blood everywhere. His nose might be a little lopsided after. But, I respect you, Gustavo. You are an amazing fighter. I appreciate you for taking the fight in my hometown, but I’m going to f**k you up.”

Gustavo Lemos

“I don’t see any difference between this and my last fights. I have a strong opponent, and I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity.”

“I’ve always said that he is a good opponent and that we’re going to have a beautiful fight.”

“I respect all my opponents, whether they are good or bad. I wish him good luck on Friday, and tell him to be careful.”

Troy Isley

“I expect a hometown fight like if I were fighting at home. Keyshawn’s family and my family. Everybody is going to be there. It’s going to be lit Friday night, and I can’t wait.”

“Our bond {with the Davis brothers} means everything. We started this thing together. We talked about everything we were going to do. And, we’re doing it now. And we’re going to continue to do it.”

“I’m going to f**k you up. That’s all that matters. He knows what’s up. He’s going to see Friday night. That’s why they call me the ‘Transformer.’”

Tyler Howard

“A win in a co-main event on ESPN+ against someone the caliber of Troy Isley, 2020 U.S. Olympian, is just another catapult into my career. It would be massive.”

“He keeps interrupting. But we’re gonna square up on Friday, bro. I’ll be there. I promise you, I’ll be there.”

“Listen, they call me ‘Hercules’ for a reason. If you come forward, you’re going to stop coming forward when you get rocked. It’s going to happen.”

Kelvin Davis

“It’s very special for all three of us. Keyshawn is having his first main event in Norfolk. And Keon is having his pro debut under his brother’s first main event. So, I’m proud of my little brothers. And it’s a dream come true.”

“I just have to be myself. It’s different now because we’re in Norfolk, my hometown. But I just have to be myself, and I’ll dominate in spectacular fashion.”

Keon Davis

“This means a lot to me. I’ve been thinking about this for my whole career. I’m happy to be here.”

“My experiences have made me a better fighter. It’s helped build my IQ. I appreciate guys like Terence Crawford, Shakur Stevenson, and Keyshawn Davis. They definitely helped me get better in the gym.”

Friday, November 8

FIRST BELL: LIVE on ESPN+ (6:20 p.m. ET/3:20 p.m. PT)
 

Keyshawn Davis vs. Gustavo Lemos, 10 Rounds,Davis’ WBO Intercontinental and WBC USA Lightweight Titles and IBF World Title Eliminator 

Raeese Aleem vs. Derlyn Hernandez, 10 Rounds, Featherweight

NORFOLK, Va. (Oct. 7, 2024) — The 10-round middleweight showdown between unbeaten contender Troy “The Transformer” Isley and Tyler “Hercules” Howard has been elevated to the co-feature of the Keyshawn Davis-Gustavo Lemos lightweight main event on Friday, Nov. 8, at Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia.

The original co-feature — WBO welterweight world champion Brian Norman Jr. defending his title against Derrieck Cuevas — was postponed after Norman suffered a hand injury in training.

Promoted by Top Rank, the entire Davis-Lemos card will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S.

Isley (13-0, 5 KOs), who hails from Alexandria, Virginia, won the vacant NABO belt in his last fight with a convincing decision over former amateur rival Javier Martinez. Isley turned pro in February 2021 and represented Team USA at the Tokyo Olympics that summer. Howard (20-1, 11 KOs), from Crossville, Tennessee, last fought in August 2023, edging Raul Salomon by majority decision.

Undercard action includes Keyshawn’s older brother, junior welterweight contender Kelvin Davis (13-0, 7 KOs), returning in an eight-rounder against Yeis Solano (15-3, 10 KOs), while his younger brother, Keon Davis, makes his professional debut in a four-round welterweight bout. Lightweight prodigy Abdullah Mason (15-0, 13 KOs) looks to shine in an eight-rounder against Yohan Vasquez (26-5, 21 KOs), 19-year-old prospect Robert Meriwether III (7-0, 3 KOs) will face Eric Howard (6-2, 1 KO) in a six-rounder at junior lightweight, and Virginia native Austin Deanda (15-0, 10 KOs) hopes to extend his unbeaten run against South Carolina’s DeAundre Pettus (12-2, 7 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight tilt.

# # #

About SevenVenues
The City of Norfolk’s SevenVenues serves to link Norfolk’s residents, visitors and tourists to Norfolk’s rich cultural arts and entertainment community. Besides providing entertainment services, SevenVenues is also responsible for the maintenance, repair, management and operation of the City’s seven public assembly facilities which include: Scope Arena, Chrysler Hall, the Attucks Theatre, the Wells Theatre, Harrison Opera House, Harbor Park, and Open Air Events. To learn more, visit SevenVenues.com.

NEW YORK (August 15, 2023) – Four Split-T Management fighters posted big wins over the weekend in Atlanta and Glendale, Arizona.

in Atlanta, Tyler Howard won an eight-round majority decision over Raul Solomon in a middleweight bout.

In round one, Howard dropped Solomon with a left hook to the jaw.

?That was the difference in the fight as Howard, 160 lbs of Crosville, Tennessee won by scores of 78-75 twice and 76-76 and is now 19-1. Solomon, 160 1/4 lbs of Long Beach, CA is 12-2.

David Navarro won a six-round unanimous decision over D’Angelo Fuentes in a featherweight bout.

Navarro, 127 lbs of Los Angeles won by scores of 60-54 twice and 58-56 and is now 6-1. Fuentes, 126.6 lbs of Coconut Creek, FL is 8-2.

Giovanni Marquez was impressive in stopping Nicky Vitone in round two of their six-round junior welterweight bout.

At the end of round one, Marquez landed a blistering combination that was punctuated by a perfect left hook to the head that sent Vitone to the canvas. In round two, Marquez hurt Vitone with a hard right and uppercut that set off a flurry that forced a referee stoppage at 59 seconds.

Marquez, 141.2 lbs of Houston is 6-0 with four knockouts. Vitone, 140.6 lbs of Pine Brook, NJ is 9-3-1.

Howard, Marquez and Navarro’s fights were part of the second edition of OTX Boxing on DAZN.

In Glendale, Arizona, 6’9″ heavyweight Antonio Mireles stopped DaJuan Calloway in the sixth and final round of their heavyweight bout.

Mireles was vicious in the final round as he landed a bevy of hard punches that snapped the head back of the nearly 400 lb. Calloway, and the fight was stopped at 1:48.

The 270 lb. Mireles of Des Moines, Iowa is now 8-0-1 with seven knockouts. Calloway, who tipped in at 391 lbs, is now 7-3.

Mireles is promoted by Top Rank, and the fight was seen live on ESPN+.

NEW YORK (August 11, 2023) – Split-T Management fighters will be front and center in action over the coming weekend.

Friday night in Atlanta. three Split-T fighters will be in action on the second installment of the OTX Boxing series on DAZN at 8:30 PM ET.

Tyler Howard will be back in action after a 21-month layoff when he takes on Raul Solomon in an eight-round middleweight bout.

Howard of Crossville, Tennessee has a record of 19-1 with 11 knockouts. The 29 year-old Howard has quality wins over Isiah Seldon (12-1-1 & Cristian Olivas (16-3). Howard is coming off his first blemish when he lost to Ian Green on November 5, 2021 in Las Vegas,

Solomon of Long Beach, California is 12-1 with 10 knockouts. The 24 year-old is coming off a second round stoppage of Angel Hernandez on April 15th of Pomona, California.

In a six-round featherweight bout, David Navarro takes on D’Angelo Fuentes. Navarro of Hemet, California is 5-1 with three knockouts. The 23 year-old Navarro has won three straight, and is coming off a second round stoppage over Luis Cambero on October 21, 2022 in Atlantic City.

Fuentes of Coconut Creek, Florida is 8-1 with five knockouts. The 24 year old has already defeated Justice Bland (5-1) and his last fight, which was a second round stoppage over previously undefeated Kevin Ford (4-0) on October 7, 2022 in Bensalem, PA.

Also seeing action in Atlanta will be former National Golden Gloves champion Giovanni Marquez. Marquez will take on Nicky Vittone in a six-round junior welterweight bout.

Marquez, 22 of Houston, Texas is 5-0 with three knockouts. Marquez began his pro career with a win over undefeated Nelson Morales. In his last bout, Marquez won a six-round unanimous decision over Bryan Springs on April 1st in Houston.

Vittone of Pine Brook, New Jersey is 9-2-1 with seven knockouts. The 27 year-old is looking to get back in the win column after being stopped by Jordan Rosario on April 1st in Paramus, New Jersey.

Saturday in Glendale, Arizona, undefeated heavyweight Antonio Mireles takes on Dajuan Calloway in a six-round bout.

The 6’9″ Mireles is 7-0 with six knockouts. Mireles has already defeated undefeated fighters Brandon Hughes (2-0) and Eric Perry (5-0-1). In his last outing, The native of Des Moines, Iowa went the distance for the first time and took home a decision win over Patrick Mailta (6-1) on March 25th in Fresno, California.

Calloway of Warrensville Heights, Ohio is 7-2 with seven knockouts. The capable 31 year-old has a first round stoppage over Kahlil Smoot (8-1) on his ledger. Calloway is coming off two consecutive stoppage wins, with the latest being a first-round win over Alex Davis on June 24th in Cleveland.

Mireles is promoted by Top Rank.

Mireles vs. Calloway will be streamed live on ESPN+ at 8 PM ET,

LAS VEGAS--Mikaela Mayer retained her WBO and won the IBF Junior Lightweight titles In a classic junior lightweight unification bout at the Virgin Hotels.

The two stood inches from each other for most of the 20 minute brawl. Hamadouche was relentless as she basically attached herself to Mayer by landing good flurries on inside. On the rare occurrences that a few feet, Mayer was able to use her length and land some eye catching shots at distance. Those situations were few, as the two engaged in an action fight that was worthy of two champions.

Mayer seemed to have hurt Hamadouche in round six by landing a hard right hand. For about 45 seconds, and the only time in the fight, the French visitor took her feet off the gas. Mayer fought well on the inside, but Hamadouche seemed busier.

Mayer landed 239 of 594; punches; Hamadouche was 233 of 872.

Mayer, 129.6 lbs of Los Angeles won by wider then it seemed scores of 100-90, 99-91 and 98-92 to go to 16-0. Hamadouche, 128.2 lbs of France is 22-2.

“{I showed} I could bang it out on the inside. That wasn’t really the entire game plan,” Mayer said. “The game plan was to use my jab, but in the back of my head, I knew she was going to keep it close, keep me on the inside. Even though we trained for that, just being able to do that for 10 straight rounds taught me a lot.

“This is everything I trained for. It really hasn’t even sunk in, but I’m proud of what I did. I’m proud of my team. We’re going to celebrate this one, for sure.”

Added Top Rank chairman Bob Arum, “This was a sensational fight, one of the best fights of the year, male or female. These two ladies are a credit to the sport, and they left it all in the ring. It was a close fight, but I felt Mikaela did more than enough to have her hand raised.”

Mayer said, “I really wanted to show everyone in the division and the naysayers that I didn’t have the power and the grit to stay in there for 10 rounds with Hamadouche that I am the best in the division. I am coming to be undisputed, and I want the big fights. I’m definitely a threat.”

Luis Melendez pounded out an eight-round unanimous decision over Thomas Mattice in a junior lightweight fight.

Melendez landed 92 of 306 punches; Mattice was 131 of 408.

Melendez, 131.4 lbs of Miami won by scores of 77-75 cards and is now 17-1. Mattice, 131.4 lbs of Cleveland is 17-3-1.

Andres Cortes remained undefeated with a 3rd round stoppage over Mark Bernaldez in a scheduled eight-round junior lightweight bout.

In round three, Cortes landed a hard combination that drove Bernaldez into the ropes. Cortes followed up with seven unanswered blows and the fight was stopped at 2:32.

Cortes, 131.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 16-0 with nine knockouts. Bernaldez, 131.2 lbs of the Philippines is 23-5.

17 year-old prospect Abdullah Mason made a successful pro debut with a 2nd round stoppage over Jaylon Phillips in a lightweight bout.

In round two, Mason put together a big flurry of punches for which Phillips had no answer for and the fight was stopped at

Mason, 135.4 lbs of Cleveland is 1-0 with one knockout. Phillips, 134.6 lbs of Florida is 1-1.

Ian Green won a eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Tyler Howard in a middleweight bout.

Howard was deducted a point in round four for hitting on the break.

Green, 160 lbs of Paterson, NJ won by scores of 80-71 and 79-72 twice and is now 17-2. Howard, 160 lbs of Crossville, TN is 19-1.

Rowdy Legend Montgomery stopped Martez McGregor in round three of their scheduled six-round super middleweight fight.

In round three, Montgomery landed a perfect right that sent McGregor down and out at 1:10.

Montgomery, 164 lbs of Victorville, CA is now 7-3-1 with five knockouts. McGregor, 166.8 lbs of Maywood, IL is 8-6.

New York (November 5, 2021)–Tonight at the Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas, undefeated middleweight Tyler Howard takes on Ian Green in a middleweight bout scheduled for eight-rounds.

Howard is managed by Split-T Management.

The fight will be streamed on ESPN+ beginning at 8:30 PM ET / 5:30 PM PT

Howard of Crossville, Tennessee has a record of 19-0 with 11 knockouts.

The 27 year-old Howard will be making his 2021 debut. Howard has quality wins over Isiah Seldon (12-1-1) and Cristian Olivias (16-3). In his last outing, Howard won an eight-round unanimous decision over KeAndre Leatherwood on November 14, 2020 at The MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Green of Haledon, New Jersey, has a record of 14-2 with 11 knockouts. The 28 year-old Green has a knack for taking out undefeated fighters as he has wins over Khiary Gray (13-0), Andy Mejias (15-0) and his last bout when he stopped Theophilus Ofeil Dodoo (8-1) in one round on June 5th in Dubai.

At Thursday’s weigh-in Howard and Green both weighed in at the middleweight limit of 160 lbs.

Howard is promoted by Top Rank.

By Kyle Kinder-

Jesse Hart isn’t the only Top Rank fighter angling for a showdown against Brooklyn-born KO-artist Edgar Berlanga (17-0, 16KO).  Unbeaten Tennessean Tyler Howard (19-0, 11KO) is hoping he’ll be the next boxer with a chance to stamp the first “L” on Berlanga’s record. 

Earlier in the year Howard thought he might get a crack at the Puerto Rican wrecking ball, but the stars never aligned.

“To be totally honest this was brought to my attention in January,” the 27 year-old Howard recalled.  “They [Howard’s management team] called me…and said that it was a possibility for me to fight him on the card that just passed in Kissimmee on April 24th.  I tested positive for COVID at that time, and then for whatever reason the fight didn’t develop and Demond Nicholson ended up taking the fight.”

Against Nicholson, Berlanga was made to fight beyond the opening round for the first time in his career.  Not only that, despite sending Nicholson to the mat four times, Berlanga was stretched all eight rounds, where he picked up his first win via decision.

“If that fight had been a nine round fight, Demond Nicholson wouldn’t have made it because Edgar cracked him at the end of the eighth round and hurt him very bad,” Howard said.  “So that was extremely impressive.”

While Howard was complementary of Berlanga’s ability to retain punching power over a twenty-four minute window, he wasn’t impressed by his stamina.

“Edgar performed very well, but he did get tired in the later rounds and I feel like that’s something we can capitalize on,” said Howard.  “And Edgar has been knocked down in the past, he got knocked down in the amateurs and that hasn’t been long ago.  If you got a weak chin, you got a weak chin, and that’s just the way it is.  And I don’t think he fights very well on his back foot.  Whenever Nicholson was planting his feet and trying to walk through him and putting his punches together, he had some success.”

Although Howard’s last three contests have been fought at middleweight, his most impressive win arguably came at super middleweight against once-beaten Isaiah Seldon in 2018.  In that bout, Howard sent Seldon crashing to the mat twice and ended the fight in just :90 seconds. 

Even still, with Berlanga fighting at super middleweight, Howard prefers any potential match be fought at a catchweight.  But he’s realistic about who holds the cards.

“Obviously I’d want to make some kind of catchweight,” said Howard.  “If you look in the past he’s weighed 162, 164.  Recently he’s been making 168.  At the end of the day, he would be the A-side in this, he’s the one that carries the star-power, he’s the one that’s been dominating, he’s earned everything that he’s got.  So if I had to go up to 168 to fight him, I’d go up and do it.”

And while a possible bang up with Berlanga is an idea that has Howard fired up, he doesn’t view his fistic future as Berlanga-or-bust.

“One thing I want to make clear is that I’m not going to put my career on halt for Edgar Berlanga,” Howard said.  “If that fight isn’t there, it’s not there.  The middleweight division is loaded with big fights to be made, they’re everywhere.  I’m definitely not banking my career on a fight with Edgar Berlanga, but if they call me and the money and timing’s right then yeah, I’m down to bump with him.”

If they did mix it up, that fight would likely take place in late July or early August, as Berlanga is expected to become a father early next month.  But if their paths do cross inside the ropes, Howard fancies his chances. 

“I definitely think I can beat him,” Howard said. “If I didn’t think I could beat him, I wouldn’t take the fight.  But the most important thing is you have to figure out a way to neutralize his power because it doesn’t matter who you are if Edgar Berlanga catches you clean, he’s going to shut your ass down…that’s just the fact of the matter.”

To help prepare for his next fight, whether it be against Berlanga or not, Howard plans to head down to Houston, TX to work with Bobby Benton, who he thinks will help him get the most out of his power.  

“One thing he [Berlanga] will realize real fucking fast is that I can punch too,” Howard said.  “My knockout ratio doesn’t reflect how hard I punch…and my hands are a lot faster than his.  If I can get him on the inside trading with me, I’m going to win those exchanges.”

According to Howard, a potential Berlanga clash “is all about risk versus reward.” 

The risk is obvious, and Howard wants to take it.

The reward? To become a Van Helsing of sorts…to become the man that stops the Monster.

Terence Crawford may have solidified himself as the best fighter in the world as he stopped Kell Brook in round four to retain his WBO Welterweight title at the MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas.

Brook started off very well as he was very adept with his jab and started landing solid rights. Brook at the very least took two if not all three of the opening rounds.

That was short lived, as in round four, Crawford hurt Brook badly with a short right hook that staggered him to the ropes that was ruled a knockdown by referee Tony Weeks. Crawford, who may be the best finisher in the sport, saw blood and pounced on Brook and landed a vicious combination that forced the stoppage at 1:14.

Crawford, 146.4 lbs of Omaha, Nebraska, is 37-0 with 28 knockouts. Brook, 147 lbs of Sheffield, England is 39-3.

“I already said who I want {next}. I want Pacquiao. I want to revisit that fight,” Crawford said. “That was a fight that should’ve happened right now. But being that the pandemic happened, and they weren’t going to allow fans in the Middle East, they had to put a hold to that. Everything was 95 percent done. We had the venue. The money was almost there. It wasn’t quite there. That was the only thing we were waiting on.

“Kell is a tremendous talent. He came and he tried to take my title. He was in shape. He made the weight. There were no excuses to be put on the table. He came off of three wins.”

Added Brook, “Never in my career, nobody has ever done that to me in sparring or anything.

“It was one of them… I got caught with a shot I didn’t see. I’m gutted because nobody could’ve gotten me in better condition. I was bang on the limit. Maybe I could’ve been a bit more relaxed and loose and let the shots go.”

Top Rank chairman Bob Arum said, “Terence Crawford showed, once again, why he is the best welterweight in the world. It was a dominating performance over a very good fighter in Kell Brook. Terence ranks up there with all the great welterweights I’ve promoted.”

Moloney and Franco Fight to No-Decision after Franco injures eye

In a rematch for the WBA Super Flyweight title, Andrew Moloney and reigning champion battled to a no-contest as an injury to the eye of Franco forced the fight to be stopped before the 3rd round.

In round one, Franco had swelling over his right eye from an accidental headbutt. The doctor looked at the rapidly swelling eye before round’s two and three, and Franco was deemed unfit to continue. Replays showed that the swelling was caused by a jab in the 1st round by Moloney..

The commission looked at the replay for over 25 minutes and settled on a no-contest.

Moloney said, “They took this away from me. The injury was caused by a punch. I can’t believe this.
 
“I was in control of the fight and on my way to a clear victory. I deserved this win. I landed 50 punches on that eye. It was not even close.”
 
Added Arum, “This is an absolute disgrace. There was no headbutt.  Andrew Moloney should be the new champion.”

Joshua Greer Jr. and Edwin Rodriguez battled to a majority draw in a eight-round bantamweight fight.

In round two, Greer began to bleed from his nose.

Rodriguez took a card 77-75 and two cards read even at 76-76.

Rodriguez landed 124 of 470 punches; Greer was 131 of 526.

Greer, 118.9 lbs of Chicago, IL is 22-2-2. Rodriguez, 118.9 lbs of Ponce, PR is 11-5-2.

Tyler Howard remained undefeated by winning an eight-round unanimous decision over KeAndrae Leatherwood.

In round two, Howard was cut over the left eye.

In round six, Leatherwood was deducted a point for holding. In round eight, Howard dropped Leatherwood with a body shot.

Howard landed 81 of 329 punches; Leatherwood was 74 of 244.

Howard, 161.2 lbs of Crossville, TN won by scores of 77-74, 76-74 and 77-73 and is now 19-0. Leatherwood, 161.9 lbs of Tuscaloosa, AL is 22-8-1.

Duke Ragan stayed undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Sebastian Gutierrez in a featherweight fight.

In round two, Ragan sent Gutierrez to the canvas with a nicely-timed right hand.

Ragan, 126 lbs of Cincinnati, OH won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 3-0. Gutierrez, 126.3 lbs of Oxnard, CA is 1-1.

Vegas Larfield stopped Jose Alberto Flores in a scheduled four round bantamweight bout featuring undefeated fighters.

It was a back and forth brawl for the opening two rounds. In round three, Larfield dropped Flores with a hard left hook. It was another right that sent Flores down for a 2nd time. Larfield finished off Flores with a big eight-punch combination and the fight was stopped at 1:07.

Larfield, 119 lbs of Brisbane, AUS is now 2-0 with two knockouts. Flores, 117.3 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 2-1-1.

Raymond Muratalla stopped Luis Porozo in round three of their scheduled six-round lightweight bout.

In round three, Muratalla sent Porozo down from a body shot. Muratalla ended it moments later when he landed a crushing right that sent Porozo down in the corner and he fight was stopped at 2:40.

Muratalla, 137.3 lbs of Fontana, CA is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Porozo, 135.2 lbs of Santo Domingo, ECU is 15-5.

NEW YORK (November 13, 2020)–Two fighters of under the Split-T Management banner will be in action on Saturday night.

Undefeated middleweight Tyler Howard will take on veteran KeAndre Leatherwood in a eight-round middleweight bout at the MGM Grand Conference Center in Las Vegas.

In Los Angeles, cruiserweight “Mighty” Joe Jones takes on undefeated prospect Efetobor Apochi in a bout scheduled for 10-rounds.

Howard of Crossville, Tennessee has a record of 18-0 with 11 knockouts. The 26 year-old Howard is an eight-year professional, who has a 1st round stoppage over Isiah Seldon (12-1-1) as well as a win over Cristian Olivas (16-3). Howard is coming off a unanimous decision over Jamaal Davis on July 19, 2019.

Howard-Leatherwood weigh-in

Photo Credit_ Mikey Williams_Top Rank via Getty Images

Leatherwood of Birmingham, Alabama has a record of 22-7-1 with 13 knockouts. The 32 year-old Leatherwood is a 12 year-professional who has wins over Eddie Gates (2-0), Martez Barnes (1-0) and Ryan Adams (6-1-1), Leatherwood has also competed against world champions Caleb Truax and Andy Lee.

At Friday’s weigh-in, Howard weighed 161.2 lbs. Leatherwood was 161.9 lbs.

The Howard – Leatherwood fight will be streamed live on ESPN+ beginning at 7 PM ET.

Howard is promoted by Top Rank.

Jones of Jersey City, New Jersey, has a record of 11-2 with eight knockouts. The 25 year-old Jones is seven year professional who was has a win over undefeated Montez Brown (8-0).

Apochi of Houston, Texas is 9-0 with nine knockouts. Apochi has a 7th round stoppage over Earl Newman (10-1-1) and is coming off a 4th round stoppage over Larry Pryor on October 4th, 2019.

PHOTOS FROM SEAN MICHAEL HAM_TGB PROMOTIONS

Jones weighed at 193 lbs. Apochi was 199 lbs at Friday’s weigh-in

The fight can be seen on FS1 at 8 PM ET

NEW YORK (July 17, 2019)–Two members of the Split-T Management stable will be on display in supporting bouts on Friday night at The MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland.

Undefeated middleweight Tyler Howard will take on hard-nosed Philly Fighter Jamaal Davis, while undefeated lightweight Rolando Vargas squares off with fellow undefeated fighter Nathaniel Lee Davis.

Those bouts will be part of the undercard of fellow Split-T fighter, Teofimo Lopez taking on Masayoshi Nakatani in an IBF Lightweight Elimination bout.

Howard of Crossville, Tennessee has a record of 17-0 with 11 knockouts. The 25 year-old Howard is eager to get back in the ring after his scheduled fight for June 28th fell out at the last moment when his opponent was 14 pounds over the contracted weight.

Howard is coming off the two best wins of his career as he stopped Isiah Seldon (12-1-1) in the 1st round; a win over Cristian Olivas (16-3) on February 15th.

In Davis, Howard will be taking on a veteran who has 33 fights on his ledger Davis has wins over Joey Damalavez (2-0), Terrence Williams (4-1) and Blake Mansfield (6-1-1).

Vargas (2-0, 2 KOs) of Milwaukee, was a 2017 National Junior Olympic Champion, will take on undefeated Nathaniel Lee Davis (1-0) in a lightweight bout, scheduled for four-rounds.

Davis will be the 2nd undefeated opponent for Vargas in three fights.

The Top Rank promoted card can be seen live on ESPN+ beginning at 6:30 PM ET.

OXON HILL, Md. (July 11, 2019) — The fighting pride of Brazil, middleweight contender Esquiva “La Pantera” Falcao, has a world title shot on his mind. The next step for the 2012 Olympic silver medalist is Jesus Antonio Gutierrez in a 10-round showdown Friday, July 19 at MGM National Harbor.

Falcao-Gutierrez will be the featured bout on the undercard stream live on ESPN+ — the industry-leading sports streaming service — beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT. In eight-round undercard action, middleweight prospect Tyler “Hercules” Howard (17-0, 11 KOs) will take on Philadelphia native Jamaal Davis (18-14-1, 7 KOs), and super featherweight Tyler McCreary (15-0-1, 7 KOs) will look to rebound from a March 23 draw against Jessie Cris Rosales (22-2-1, 10 KOs).

The evening will be topped by a pair of IBF world title eliminators — lightweight Teofimo Lopez versus Masayoshi Nakatani and junior welterweight Maxim Dadashev versus Subriel Matias — that will stream live on ESPN+ starting at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

“This is a great opportunity for me to showcase my skills,” Falcao said. “Nobody has seen the best of me yet, and I am working hard with Robert Garcia to improve my craft. I look at all of the middleweights out there, and I know I can compete with any of them. I fought on the biggest stage as an amateur. I will thrive when I am given that opportunity as a professional.”

Falcao (23-0, 15 KOs) turned pro in February 2014 following a storied amateur career that included an excruciatingly close 14-13 decision loss to Ryota Murata in the 2012 Olympic gold medal match (75 kilograms). A natural righty who fights as a southpaw, Falcao is a classic boxer-puncher who has never come close to tasting defeat in the paid ranks. After winning three bouts in 2018, including a pair of first-round stoppages, Falcao returned home to Brazil for the first time as a pro on March 31, shutting out veteran Jorge Daniel Miranda over 10 rounds. Gutierrez (25-3-2, 12 KOs), from Tijuana, Mexico, is an eight-year pro who is looking to rebound from a knockout loss to Steven Butler last November in Canada. Prior to the Butler defeat, Gutierrez had been on a six-bout unbeaten streak dating back to June 2016.

In other undercard action:
Dusty Hernandez-Harrison (32-0-1, 18 KOs), one of Washington, D.C.’s most popular young fighters, will look to thrill the home region fans in an eight-round super welterweight bout versus Juan De Angel (21-11-1, 19 KOs).

Top heavyweight prospect Cassius Chaney (15-0, 9 KOs) will look to extend his knockout streak to five versus Joel Caudle (8-2-2, 5 KOs) in a bout scheduled for eight or six rounds.

Washington, D.C. native Patrick Harris (16-0, 8 KOs) will make his third appearance at MGM National Harbor in a super lightweight bout scheduled for eight or six rounds against Donald Ward (11-10-1 5 KOs).

Nathaniel Davis (1-0, 1 KO), from Lusby, Maryland, will take on Rolando Vargas (2-0, 2 KOs) in a battle of unbeaten lightweights.
Promoted by Top Rank, tickets priced at $100, $75, $50 and $25 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased online at ticketmaster.com or in person at the MGM National Harbor.

For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtag #LopezNakatani to join the conversation on social media.

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Programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB and NHL games, exclusive UFC, Top Rank boxing and PFL fights and events, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, UEFA Nations League, EFL Championship, EFL Carabao Cup, Eredivisie, and more), thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and other sports), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, new and exclusive series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and can cancel at any time.

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NEW YORK (June 28, 2019) -Undefeated middleweight Tyler Howard (17-0, 11 Kos) was supposed to be in action tonight at the Pechanga Resort in Temecula, California, but due to complications with his opponent, Howard will not be in the ring.

Howard was originally supposed to fight Manny Woods, but Woods pulled out on Monday. Quick efforts were successful in securing a new opponent as Luis Hernandez stepped into taking the fight.

“Woods knew about the fight for seven weeks, but he pulled out. We found Hernandez and set for the fight to be at 162 pounds. Hernandez never fought above 162, and has fought most of his career at lower weights,” said Howard.

“On Wednesday night, Hernandez claimed he was 172 pound. Two-hours before the weigh in, he said he could only get to 167. We agreed to that and adjusted the contract. I just wanted to fight. At that time, I was still preparing for 162, so I had some water, had a banana and a blueberry muffin and left my hotel room at 166.4. When I went to the weigh-in and got a call from my Manager and they told me that Hernandez not only was not going to fight, but he was 174 pounds. I am disappointed, but I just want to point out that my manager of Tim VanNewhouse of Split-T Management and my promoter Top Rank did every thing they could to make the fight happen, and I just want to thank them for that. I was told, I will be back in action on July 19th in National Harbor, Maryland, and I look forward to having my fans show up to see me that night.”

Photo by Mikey Williams / Top Rank

Rob Brant retained the WBA Middleweight title with a 11th round stoppage over Khasahn Baysangurov in font of a sold-out crowd of 2,225 at the Grand Casino in Hinckley, Minnesota

In round two, Brant dropped Baysangurov with a right hand. In round three, Brant began to swell around his right eye.

In round seven, Baysangurov was bleeding heavily from his nose. In round 11, Brant dropped Baysangurov with a hard right hand. Baysangurov got to his feet, but ate a big combination and the fight was stopped at 2:33.

Brant of St. Paul. MN is 25-1 with 17 knockouts. Baysangurov of Ukraine is 17-1.

“Today, I feel like a true champion. I was happy with my performance. I had some cramps later in the fight, but this shows I can carry my power later in fights.”

“Middleweight is one of the deepest divisions in boxing. There are fights to be made. We just have to keep pushing forward. Canelo Alvarez is recognized by many as the champion at middleweight, and I’d love a fight with him down the road.”

“{Baysangurov} had a good jab. I started a little sloppy, and my trainer (Eddie Mustafa Muhammad) told me in the corner to relax. I waited for the opportunity to come, and it came in the 11th round.”

Mikaela Mayer remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision Yareli Larios in a super featherweight bout.

Mayer won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 78-74 and is now 10-0. Larios of Mexico is 13-2-1.

“It’s more about strategy in the pros. I was relaxed and took my time in there” Mayer said. “We knew she was going to be tough. She has that Hispanic blood in her.

“I think I’m ready for more belts. I want those belts this year.”

Joshua Greer Jr won his 17th straight fight and notched his 7th consecutive stoppage as he took out Giovanni Escaner in the 8th frame of their scheduled 10 round bantamweight bout.

It was Eascaner who struck first as he dropped Greer with a right on the ropes just as the bell sounded to end the 3rd round.

In round eight, Greer landed a perfect right the body that sent Escaner to the canvas for the 10-count at 2:33

Greer of Chicago is 20-1-1 with 12 knockouts. Escaner of The Philippines is 19-4.\

“I had to wait for him to soften up, but I did what I had to do,” Greer said. “It’s all a learning experience for me. But I’m from Chicago. I had to go take it.”

Tyler Howard won an eight-round split decision over Cristian Olivas in a middleweight bout.

Howard won two cards 79-73 and 77-75 while Olivas took a card 77-75.

Howard of Crpssvill, TN 17-0. Olivas of Mexicali, MEX is 16-4.

“This was my first time going eight rounds,” Howard said. “I felt like I prepared well for this fight. Olivas came to fight. All I can do is go back to camp and continue to work harder and be ready for my next fight. This experience is going to help me moving forward.”

Lennox Allen remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Derrick Webster in a super middleweight fight.

Allen dropped Webster with a right hook in round in round three.

Allen of New York won by scores of 98-91 twice and 97-92 and is now 22-0-1. Webster of Glassboro, NJ is 28-2.

Ismail Muwendo won a six-round unanimous decision over Hevinsom Herrera in a lightweight bout.

Muwendo won by scores of 60-54 on cards and is now 21-1. Herreraa of Colombia is 24-16-1

Steven Nelson remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Felipe Romero in a light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Romero scored a dubious knockdown with a right hand. In round three, Nelson returned the favor by dropping Romero with a combo to the body.

Nelson of Omaha, NEB won by scores of 59-54 twice and 58-54, and is now 13-0. Romero of Mexico is 20-17-1.

“He’s a tough guy who can take a good punch. That’s why we picked him,” Nelson said. “I had him hurt a few times, but we got the job done.”

In a battle of junior welterweights, Joe James won a four-round unanimous decision over Demetrius Wilson.

In round three, James dropped Wilson with a double jab.

James won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 4-0. Wilson is 2-11.

HINCKLEY, Minn. (Jan. 14, 2019) — Rob “Bravo” Brant upset the odds to win a world title. For title defense number one, he’s returning to his favorite stomping grounds. Brant, a native of St. Paul, Minn., will defend his WBA middleweight title against the unbeaten Khasan Baysangurov on Friday, Feb. 15 at Grand Casino Hinckley.

Brant, who stunned Japanese superstar Ryota Murata Oct. 20 via unanimous decision to win the title, will be making his 12th professional appearance at Grand Casino Hinckley. Rounding out the ESPN-televised tripleheader will be rising bantamweight star Joshua Greer Jr. defending his WBC Continental Americas belt in a 10-rounder versus Giovanni “Little Giant” Escaner and female fighting sensation Mikaela Mayer making the second defense of her NABF super featherweight crown in an eight-rounder versus Yareli Larios.

Brant-Baysangurov, Greer-Escaner, and Mayer-Larios will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 9 p.m. ET. The entire undercard will stream live beginning at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN+ — the new multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Greg Cohen Promotions and Rapacz Boxing, tickets priced at $50 (reserved) and $35 (general admission) go on sale Saturday, Jan 19 at 10 a.m. CT and can be purchased at any Grand Casino MN box office, online at Ticketmaster.com, or by calling Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000.

“Becoming a world champion was a dream come true. It’s extra special that my first title defense will be in my home state of Minnesota in front of my fans,” Brant said. “I fully understand the task in front of me, as it is harder to keep a title than it is to win one. My opponent is very talented and certainly deserving of his world ranking. I know that Khasan has weaknesses, and I feel we can exploit them. I am already working hard in a full training camp in Las Vegas in order to be prepared for top-level competition. I am confident and ready.”

“This is going to be a special night for Rob. He’s returning home as a world champion, and there is no place he’d rather make the first defense of his WBA middleweight title than Minnesota,” said Greg Cohen, Brant’s co-promoter. “I am looking forward to Rob putting on another virtuoso performance on ESPN.”

“I am very proud and happy to receive this great opportunity to showcase my skills against the reigning WBA middleweight world champion,” Baysangurov said. “I won’t disappoint my team and will give everything it takes to become the new champion. Of course, Rob Brant is a good boxer and a great champion, but now is my time to shine.”

Brant (24-1, 16 KOs) turned pro in 2012 following a standout amateur career that included a bronze medal at the 2012 U.S. National Championships (178 pounds). He moved down to middleweight to begin his pro career and soon became a gate attraction in Minnesota. He was riding a four-bout knockout streak in 2017 when he moved up in weight to enter the World Boxing Super Series super middleweight tournament. Brant was bested via unanimous decision by former light heavyweight world champion Jürgen Brähmer in the tournament quarterfinals. Following the Brähmer defeat, Brant returned to the middleweight division, knocking out Colby Courter in the opening round on March 9 of last year at Grand Casino Hinckley.

Against Murata, at the Park Theater in Las Vegas, Brant threw an astounding 1,262 punches, snatching the title from the established champion in one of the year’s great performances. He returns to Hinckley intent on continuing his streaking momentum against Baysangurov (17-0, 7 KOs), a 21-year-old who turned pro at 16 years of age. A former Russian amateur standout, Baysangurov captured the vacant WBA Intercontinental middleweight belt last May with a 12-round decision win against Guido Pitto. He defended the belt in October in Kiev, Ukraine, with a unanimous decision victory versus Paul Valenzuela Jr.

Greer (19-1-1, 11 KOs), the 24-year-old Chicago native with the big smile and the bigger punch, is aiming to extend his knockout streak to seven. He went 4-0 in 2018, including a third-round stoppage of Giovanni Delgado on Sept. 28. In his last outing, Dec. 14 in Corpus Christi, Texas, Greer captured the vacant WBC Continental Americas belt when Daniel Lozano remained on his stool following the seventh round. Greer, as always, will have a custom pillow on hand, which is unveiled after he knocks out his opponent. Greer debuted the pillow after he knocked out James Smith in what was a 2017 Knockout of the Year contender. Escaner (19-3, 13 KOs), a 28-year-old Filipino contender, has won eight consecutive fights and will be making his American debut.

“I just want to show the fans complete excellence. I’m a true gem in the sport, and I want everyone to keep following my career because you guys haven’t seen anything yet,” Greer said. “Don’t blink because I’m coming to Minnesota to put on another great show. After I get another knockout, everyone is going to be calling me Mr. ESPN!”

Mayer (9-0, 4 KOs) represented the United States at the 2016 Rio Olympics and is one of the leading names in female boxing less than two years since making her professional debut. She won the NABF belt with a unanimous decision over Vanessa Bradford Oct. 13 on the Terence Crawford-Jose Benavidez Jr. undercard in Omaha, Neb. In her last but, Dec. 14 in Corpus Christi, Texas, she shut out Calixta Salgado over eight rounds. Larios (13-1-1, 3 KOs), a native of Guadalajara, Mexico, is a seasoned pro who has gone eight or more rounds six times.

“2018 was an amazing year for me and for women’s boxing,” Mayer said. “I won my first belt and fought six times. There’s a lot more to my boxing style that the world has yet to see, and this is the year I display my full range of skills. I’m ready to turn people into fans starting with my first fight of 2019, live on ESPN where women’s boxing belongs!”

The ESPN+ undercard will feature a slew of top contenders and prospects.

Unbeaten light heavyweight prospect Steve “So Cold” Nelson (12-0, 10 KOs), a stablemate of pound-for-pound elite Terence “Bud” Crawford, will battle Felipe Romero (20-16-1, 14 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

Ismail “Sharp Shooter” Muwendo (20-1, 12 KOs) will face Colombian puncher Hevinson Herrera (24-15-1, 18 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight contest.

One the sport’s top young middleweights, Tyler Howard (16-0, 11 KOs), will seek to extend his knockout streak to three versus Cristian Olivas (16-3, 13 KOs).

Lightweight prospect Albert Bell (13-0, 5 KOs) will take on the durable Edward Kakembo (10-6, 3 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

Kevin Cruz (8-1, 5 KOs) will look to bounce back from his first pro loss against Minneapolis native Rondale Hubbert (12-8-1 7 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight fight.

Unbeaten super middleweight Cem Kilic (12-0, 7 KOs) will see action in an eight-rounder against an opponent to be named.

Lorenzo Simpson (1-0, 1 KO), an 18-year-old Baltimore native, will showcase his talents in a six-round middleweight bout.

For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtag #BrantKhasan to follow the action on social media.

NEW YORK (November 16, 2018) –Undefeated middleweight Tyler Howard is back in action as he takes on Isiah Seldon in an eight-round middleweight bout at The Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Howard of Crossville, Tennessee has a record of 15-0 with 10 knockouts is coming off a 2nd round knockout over Javier Frazier on July 14th in New Orleans.

The 24 year-old Howard was 2010 National Junior Olympic Silver Medalist

“In preparation for my inaugural event as a Top Rank fighter, my team and I had a great training camp. We are all eager to showcase our abilities in front of a great crowd tonight,” said Howard.

“This is a great opportunity for Tyler to showcase his abilities on this card tonight. He comes from a family of fighters which includes his father and brother, and Tyler is a great young talent who can go a long way in the sport,” said David McWater of Split-T Management.

Atlantic City, NJ (November 1, 2018) – Middleweight Isiah Seldon is getting ready for his biggest fight of his career when he takes on undefeated Tyler Howard in a bout scheduled for eight-round on November 16th at The Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City.

The bout, which is promoted by Top Rank, will be streamed live on ESPN+.

The main event will see WBO Junior Welterweight champion Maurice Hooker defending against Alex Saucedo.

Seldon (12-1-1, 4 KOs) has been training in Atlantic City under the watchful eye of Bill Johnson.

“I am looking forward to this great opportunity,” said Seldon. “I have been longing for an opportunity to take on a fighter such as Howard as a win will take my career to the next level.”

Team Seldon, has been working diligently with longtime manager Jim Kurtz very excited about the opportunity that Seldon has in front of him.

“It doesn’t get any bigger than fighting on a Top Rank show with an explosive main event between Hooker and Saucedo. The staff at Top Rank has been top notch. I am really excited for Isiah to get this opportunity to display his talents on a big stage. Myself and co-manager Joe Thompson are convinced Isiah is ready to shine on November 16th and it can’t get here fast enough,” said Kurtz, who has manged Seldon from day one.

Kurtz also managed Seldon’s father, WBA Heavyweight champion, Bruce Seldon.

“Isiah has reunited with his original trainer Bill Johnson and they haven’t skipped a beat. This is the first time Isiah has had a full fledged training camp. We haven’t left any stone unturned in preparation for this fight. Isiah’s conditioning is at a point that I have never seen with him before. He is getting great sparring and his improvement working with Bill in preparation for this fight has been incredible. He is ready to show the world a new and improved Isiah Seldon. He has a large legacy to follow being the son of former WBA Heavyweight Champion Bruce Seldon but Isiah is determined to make his own mark on the sport of boxing.”

“He has always had power in both hands, scoring knockdown in almost every fight, but now he is learning to remain calm and finish guys instead of getting overly excited and letting them off the hook. He is punching harder than ever before, putting his punches together and his boxing ability has reached a level where he can control the pace of the fight. We have taken it slow with Isiah considering he didn’t have any amateur fights but we are now at the point where he is ready to make his mark on the Middleweight division.”

“We know Tyler Howard is a good undefeated fighter. He had a good amateur career, comes from a family with a boxing background, and has a solid management team who have done a great job with him. On November 16th we expect a tough fight with some fireworks but we are confident Isiah will emerge victorious and this will lead us to bigger and better opportunities.”