Vergil Ortiz Jr. (18-0, 18 KOs) retains his WBO International Welterweight Title and gets closer to a world title shot after his knock out defeat of the Lithuanian Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas (22-2-1, 18 KOs). The scheduled 12-round fight was hosted at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, and was streamed live on DAZN. The event featured a night full of action as the Lithuanian went after Ortiz, Jr. early in the fight and caught him in the second round, where Ortiz, Jr. met the canvas but was ruled a slip by the judges. Ortiz, Jr. returned and both fighters openly exchanged blows during an exciting second round that brought the chanting crowd onto its feet.

The action continued in the third round, as Ortiz, Jr. knocked down Kavaliaskas and pursued him aggressively throughout the round. In the next rounds, the fighters gave each other some space, as Vergil began to use an effective jab on Kavaliaskas, catching him several times straight in the face. By the eighth round, Ortiz, Jr. effectively dominated Kavaliauskas, dropping the former Olympian four times to win the fight at the 2:59 mark of the eighth round.

Ortiz said, “I feel good. The fight started off slow in my opinion and I just had to adjust. After the second round, I had to adjust and try to find a way to wear him down. I started using my jab more and fought more intelligently. After the third round, I felt more confident because I knew that I could control the fight moving forward. But he is a tough guy, a very strong fighter, and I respect that he came to fight.”

“I came here to fight, I was sure I would stop him. I prepared myself so hard to be ready for this fight. I was 100% in shape, I was fast, I was strong. But you know, it is what it is, today he was stronger, he is a tremendous fighter. He has good power and good speed, good jab, good technique, he is a good fighter. I was thinking that I was going to end the fight in the second round, but he survived. He is a warrior,” said Kavaliauskas.

Photo by Stacey Msnyder / BoxingScene.com

Rick Mirigian and MTK Global are delighted to announce the signing of unbeaten junior welterweight sensation Arnold Barboza Jr.

Barboza Jr (25-0, 10 KOs) will be advised by MTK Global and managed by Boxing Manager of the Year nominee Mirigian, and is widely regarded as one of the best 140lb fighters in the world.

The 29-year-old Californian native is currently ranked #5 with The Ring, #3 with the WBO, and #4 with the WBC, and was last in action in October where he defeated Alex Saucedo by unanimous decision to win the WBO International super-lightweight title.

Barboza Jr looks destined to become a world champion in the near future, and he is extremely delighted to be teaming up with MTK Global and Mirigian.

Speaking on the signing, Barboza Jr said: “It means a lot to me to sign with Rick Mirigian as my manager as he has proven what he can do for guys, along with MTK Global as my advisor.

“I now feel like the power team is complete and I’m in the best position I could be in to challenge for a world title soon. I am looking forward to a big 2021.”

MTK Global CEO Bob Yalen said: “We’re thrilled to be kicking off 2021 in a huge way by announcing the signing of Arnold Barboza Jr.

“He’s already shown in his career so far that he has all the tools to make it to the very top, and we’re confident that by working alongside Rick Mirigian and Top Rank on another big time fighter that we can help him achieve his dream of becoming world champion.”

Rick Mirigian added: “Our immediate goal is to position Arnold for a world title fight this year. We have a plan and map laid out for it.

“He’s hungry, humble and one of the best guys in the world in his weight class. At 25-0, some very big fights await for him and I’m grateful for the opportunity to manage him.”

Barboza Jr is the latest huge US name to team up with MTK Global and Mirigian, following the signings of Vergil Ortiz, Joshua Franco, Hector Tanajara, Misael Rodriguez and Jonathan Navarro.

Stay up to date at mtkglobal.com and on social media @mtkglobal

BRUTAL JOSHUA KNOCKS OUT PULEV IN NINE ROUNDS TO RETAIN HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLES
12 x 3 mins IBF, WBA, WBO & IBO Heavyweight World Titles

ANTHONY JOSHUA WKO9 (2:58) v KUBRAT PULEV
Anthony Joshua dominated and then floored mandatory challenger Kubrat Pulev to score a ninth-round knockout and retain his IBF, WBA, WBO & IBO Heavyweight World Titles at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Saturday, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and Ireland and on DAZN in the U.S. and more than 200 countries and territories on its just-launched Global platform.

With 1,000 ticket-buying fans allowed into the building for the first time at a British fight since the COVID-19 pandemic began, Joshua’s entrance was met by a huge roar from the crowd.

Joshua floored Pulev heavily on three occasions, twice in the final round, and ended the fight with a vicious right hand. The explosive performance from Joshua would have demanded the attention of WBC ruler Tyson Fury – they remain on a collision course to decide an Undisputed Champion in 2021.

Joshua told Sky Sports afterwards: “I started this game in 2013. I’ve been chasing all the belts. I’ve been dealing with mandatories.
“Of course I want the challenge. It’s not about the opponent, it’s about the legacy and the belt. Whoever has got the belt, I would love to compete with them. If that is Tyson Fury, let it be Tyson Fury. It’s no big deal.

“It’s one fight at a time, picking them off one by one. That’s all it’s about for me. I’ve got to stay focused.”

“There’s been a lot of talk,” Eddie Hearn told Sky Sports. “As he said, it’s less talk, more action. Since he came into the office, he wanted to be the Undisputed Champion of the World.

“We’re going to be friendly, we’re going to be nice. We know what we have to do. Starting from tomorrow, we make the Tyson Fury fight straight away.

“It’s the only fight to be made in boxing. It’s the biggest fight in boxing. It’s the biggest fight in British boxing history.”

12 x 3 mins vacant WBO International Cruiserweight Title
LAWRENCE OKOLIE WTKO2 (1:45) v NIKODEM JEZEWSKI
Lawrence Okolie swiftly demolished Nikodem Jezewski to stay on course for a WBO Cruiserweight World Title fight next year.

The unbeaten 27-year-old was denied a fight for the vacant WBO belt after Krzysztof Glowacki tested positive for COVID-19 last week, but Okolie made short work of his Polish replacement opponent.

The explosive power in Okolie’s fists was evident in the opening minute as he rattled in a right hand before a body shot sent Jezewski to his knees.

A straight right hand then sent shockwaves through Jezewski’s legs as he tumbled back to the canvas. Okolie would not be denied a quick finish and a right hand sent Jezewski tumbling backwards for a third and final time in the second round.

Speaking to Matchroom afterwards Okolie said: “I’m really happy. I was in the back room thinking I’m really calm and chilled. I just went out there to try and execute what I do every day in the gym. I really came out of the cage. I’m happy to get the win. I’ll have to watch it back, but from the reaction ringside, it seems like it was good. It’s what we’ve been working on. I do it every day in training. It’s about taking it from training to the fight. If I’m able to do what I’m doing in training in my next fight, I’ll be a World Champion. I’m excited.

“He was undefeated and he was in shape preparing to fight. It was a risk, he had the world at this feet. It felt like a normal show, even with everyone spread out. It felt good. I’m really excited to watch it all back. That’s five stoppages on the trot. I’m feeling good and I want to keep the KO run going. It was good to shake out and make the weight. I had a good training camp and we’ll just build off that for the next one.”

Photos by Mark Robinson / MatchRoom Boxing

SAUNDERS VS. MURRAY WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER
17:45 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS FACEBOOK

6 x 3 mins Featherweight Contest
DONTE DIXON 9st 1lb 10oz v ANGELO DRAGONE 9st 1lb 14oz
(Sheffield, England)                  (Carmarthen, Wales)

followed by

6 x 3 mins Super-Middleweight contest
LEWIS EDMONDSON 12st 3lbs 3oz v JOHN TELFORD 12st 2lbs 8oz
(Southampton, England)                          (Manchester, England)

followed by

19:00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS

8 x 3 mins International Super-Middleweight contest
LERRONE RICHARDS 12st 4lbs 0oz v TIMO LAINE 12st 3lbs 10oz
(New Malden, England)                            (Helsinki, Finland)

followed by

10 x 3 mins WBO International Super-Middleweight Title

ZACH PARKER 11st 13lbs 0oz v CESAR NUNEZ 11st 13lbs 11oz
(Derby, England)                          (Pamplona, Spain)

followed by

8 x 2 mins International Bantamweight contest
SHANNON COURTENAY 8st 5lbs 14oz v DOROTA NOREK 8st 3lbs 14oz
(Watford, England)                                          (Poznan, Poland)

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBA Lightweight World Title Eliminator
JAMES TENNYSON 9st 8lbs 13oz v JOSH O’REILLY 9st 8lbs 5oz
(Belfast, Northern Ireland)                  (Hamilton, Canada)

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBO Super-Middleweight World Title
BILLY JOE SAUNDERS 11st 13lbs 5oz v MARTIN MURRAY 11st 13lbs 6lbs
(Hatfield, England)                                      (St Helens, England)

Dubois Vs. Joyce Discussion

Daniel Dubois, Joe Joyce – AT LAST, Dubois vs. Joyce is finally happening. It is a fight that has captured the public imagination, and it goes down this Saturday night for the WBO International title, live on BT Sport 1 HD from 7.30 pm.

AT LAST, Dubois vs. Joyce is finally happening. It is a fight that has captured the public imagination, and it goes down this Saturday night live on BT Sport 1 HD from 7.30 pm.

Below is a selection of prediction quotes from some of the sport’s biggest names and a few famous fans for good measure.

TYSON FURY

I want to be there for that. I want to be the commentary man for that fight. That’s a fight I do not want to miss—both good fighters. Joe’s a big strong unit, Juggernaut, get in the way he’ll run you over. Daniel’s big and strong and youthful, fresh. They’re both good fighters, and it’ll come down to who wants it more on the night. They’re both capable of winning, they’re both capable of pulling victories out, and they’re both capable of knocking the other person out. It’s a fight you don’t want to miss. Watch it live and exclusive on BT Sport.

DAVID HAYE

I can see it going both ways. I can see Dubois being able to stop Joyce if it’s an early shootout. But, if it’s not an early shootout and becomes a boxing match, I believe that works in Joe Joyce’s favor. So I’m going to go with the man I know, the man I’ve seen take some beatings and soak it up; I’m going to go with Joe Joyce by points decision or late stoppage.

JOHN FURY

I’m a little bit worried about whether it’s too early for Daniel Dubois. Joe Joyce is a big, strong, seasoned man. We know he’s got a good engine, and he can hold a shot well. It’s a hard one, but for my money, it’s a bit too soon for Daniel Dubois.

ANDY LEE

I see it being a shoot out. I think Dubois’ extra speed will give him the edge, and I think he’ll win by knockout.

Daniel Dubois, Joe Joyce – AT LAST, Dubois vs. Joyce is finally happening. It is a fight that has captured the public imagination, and it goes down this Saturday night live on BT Sport 1 HD from 7.30 pm.

RICKY HATTON

I think most people will lean to Dubois slightly because he’s a man in form. He’s a little bit fresher. Joe’s had a very distinguished amateur career; maybe he has a few more miles on the clock than Daniel. He’s quite versatile, Joe. He can do pretty much everything. His style is a little bit in-your-face, though, which might suit Daniel Dubois. I think it’s a 50-50 fight, but Daniel might be a little bit fresher… I think that might make the difference.

PAULIE MALIGNAGGI

My prediction is an explosive fight. It could go either way. They’re both big punching guys looking for the big one. I edge towards Dubois at this moment.

RICHIE WOODALL

I think if Daniel Dubois can land a big shot early on, it’ll be his contest. If Joe can get through the first 3 or 4 rounds and take Daniel into the later stages… then the tide could turn after 5 or 6 rounds. If I had to put money on it, I’d probably just fancy Daniel, to be honest.

LIAM WILLIAMS

I think it’ll be an excellent fight. I quite highly favor Dubois, but if Joyce can weather a bit of a storm, then I think he’s in with a chance. If you put a gun to my head, I’d have to put my money on Dubois.

NATHAN GORMAN

It’s a real 50-50 fight, in my opinion. I think many people are writing Joe off, but it’s a lot closer than that. Joyce has got a good amateur pedigree. Daniel, on the other hand, is a big power puncher, a massive backhand. I’ll favor Daniel; over six, it’ll be interesting to see what happens.

Daniel Dubois, Joe Joyce – AT LAST, Dubois vs. Joyce is finally happening. It is a fight that has captured the public imagination, and it goes down this Saturday night live on BT Sport 1 HD from 7.30 pm.

TOMMY FURY

50-50 in my mind. Obviously, Joyce can shift a shot; he’s more experienced coming from the amateurs. He’s had some good fights as a professional. Then you’ve got a young boy Daniel Dubois, British champion, on his way up. I know it’s a cliché to say that if it goes long, Joyce will win it and if it goes short, Daniel will win it, but really, I wish good luck to both men, hope they put up a good fight, and may the best man win.

CARL FRAMPTON

This one is fascinating. Both guys are punchers. Dubois is technically better than Joe, but Joe, even though he looks really unorthodox, he’s got an engine as I’ve never seen before in my life. I was lucky enough to train with him, and I’ve never seen a fitter boxer. He’ll want to apply his pressure to Dubois and make him work hard from the start. I think it’s going to be a great fight, Joe’s going to force the pace from the start, and he’s going to walk onto a lot of shots, so it’s all about how well his chin holds up. The later the fight goes on, the more chance that Joe has, but I’m going to stay with Dubois on this one. I think Dubois will get to him at some point, probably a stoppage in the middle rounds.

DAVID PRICE

(Picking Joe Joyce) “It’s the intensity he fights at. It’s his unconventional, unorthodox style that can throw people a lot. Bryant Jennings is a top operator… and Joyce is getting in with him when he hasn’t even had ten professional fights. I believe (Joe) is an Olympic Gold medaller, really. So, Joe’s going into the fight in my eyes as the favorite.

ADAM CATTERALL

Two top blokes throwing down for our entertainment. Like everybody else, I see either Daniel early or Joe late. I can’t see it going the distance. Joe is tough, but he does get hit. If Daniel can open him up with that jab and left to the body, the headshots will come. I can’t see Joe getting knocked out, but I can see him stopped on his feet.

Daniel Dubois, Joe Joyce – AT LAST, Dubois vs. Joyce is finally happening. It is a fight that has captured the public imagination, and it goes down this Saturday night live on BT Sport 1 HD from 7.30 pm.

PADDY CONSIDINE

I have to pick Daniel. The momentum is with him. Joe seems too easy to hit with the right hand. Joyce may have a great chin, but he can’t keep taking those all night. This is going to be a great fight. It reminds me of Lennox Lewis v Gary Mason.

LOU DIBELLA

I love this fight — a clash of styles, with the outcome in doubt. Big Joe is physically strong, durable, more experienced, and has reached, but he’s slow. Dubois is more mobile, can be explosive, and has potential out the ying-yang. This is a great domestic brawl. The kid’s more athletic, and I’m predicting a mid/late stoppage for Daniel.

DEAN EDWARDS

I’m so pleased that we are getting the sort of domestic dust-up that so many fighters try to avoid, it’s a 50/50 fight, but if I had to pick, my prediction is that Daniel wins via TKO round 4. This is going to be a great fight.

Daniel Dubois, Joe Joyce – AT LAST, Dubois vs. Joyce is finally happening. It is a fight that has captured the public imagination, and it goes down this Saturday night live on BT Sport 1 HD from 7.30 pm.

RON LEWIS

This is a real gut check for Dubois. As much as people will predict big things about his future, he has never beaten anyone nearly as good or experienced as Joyce, and I could easily see Joyce wearing down Dubois and stopping Dubois. However, I think the difference between the pair is defense. Joyce doesn’t mind taking a shot, and at some point, that will be his downfall. Joyce will take some shifting, but if Dubois catches him cleanly often enough, he will stop him. Dubois 7-9.

CHRIS McKENNA

I believe Dubois will have to come through some storms early in the fight; Joyce will be relentless and will pile plenty of pressure on while may even come close to forcing a stoppage of his own, but I think the younger man will dig deeper and find something late on. But it will need the referee to take Joyce out as he will be brave and want to fight on.

ANTHONY OGOGO

Going to be a great fight, two of the biggest prospects in Heavyweight boxing tearing it up, like the good old days. It’s as close to a 50/50 as you can get. Still, I’m slightly leaning towards Joyce as he’s more experienced in big matches, his physical maturity, and experience in big fights and competition like the Olympics, etc.

Daniel Dubois, Joe Joyce – AT LAST, Dubois vs. Joyce is finally happening. It is a fight that has captured the public imagination, and it goes down this Saturday night live on BT Sport 1 HD from 7.30 pm.

JON PEGG

I keep changing my mind on this one. I’m going for the Peacock Gym team to tip the balance with their experience and Dubois to get a hard-fought stoppage around 7.

KALLE SAUERLAND

I think it’s an excellent 50/50 fight and has the makings to be a classic. Dubois is a phenomenal talent but is this a match-up too early for him? I could not pick a winner as there are too many unknowns, but if I had too I would have to pick Joyce because I have seen him in the deep end before. Good luck to both.

SARAH SHEPHERD

We know a few things going into this fight: Joe Joyce has a granite chin and serious engine, and Daniel Dubois can absolutely bang. Combined, those factors suggest we will see Joyce look to survive an inevitable onslaught in the first few rounds and take Dubois into deep waters late on. I’m not sure he makes it and can see the referee stepping in to save him before it gets that far.

LIAM SMITH

I think it’s a top fight between two very good Heavyweights who are both on the up. It’s a good clash of styles. If Dubois has it in the tank, I think he wins; he’s better all round. If he doesn’t and doesn’t do Joyce in the first few rounds, Joyce could come on for a late stoppage. But, my pick is Dubois win, 4-6 rounds.

Daniel Dubois, Joe Joyce – AT LAST, Dubois vs. Joyce is finally happening. It is a fight that has captured the public imagination, and it goes down this Saturday night live on BT Sport 1 HD from 7.30 pm.

MARK TIBBS

I believe ‘Dynamite’ Dubois is gonna explode on point and extinguish Joe Joyce within six rounds.

TROY WILLIAMSON

Many people are writing Joe off, but he’s GB’s most decorated amateur for a reason. I’m going for JJ’s win.

WALLY DOWNES

I can’t back against Daniel, his rise and his camp have been so seamless and continuous, whereas Joe, for all his talent, has never really settled anywhere or been the main man. I have only seen Joe Hurt once, and that was to the body. I think Daniel will target that and get the job done.

GARETH A DAVIES

This is an enticing, thrilling match-up and a crossroads fight for both Dubois and Joyce. Dubois has the edge in speed and devastating power, but Joyce looks like he means business and victory would elevate him to the top of the division. If Joyce is still there and intact after six rounds, it will be fascinating, especially if Joyce’s punches have tested Dubois. I think Dubois wins this if he can take those punches around the sixth round.

Daniel Dubois, Joe Joyce – AT LAST, Dubois vs. Joyce is finally happening. It is a fight that has captured the public imagination, and it goes down this Saturday night live on BT Sport 1 HD from 7.30 pm.

MIKE COSTELLO

It could be one to remember, coming at such a pivotal time for both. I believe Dubois’s accuracy with the left hand – the jab and the body shot – will be the key factor in the outcome, offsetting the greater work rate of Joyce.

HALL OF FAME promoter Frank Warren today held the final head-to-head press conference ahead of the sensational Heavyweight showdown between unbeaten KO Kings & WBO International Champion Daniel Dubois and Joe Joyce.The unbeaten Londoners collide in an explosive 12 rounder at Church House, Westminster on Saturday (November 28) live on BT Sport, on a Queensberry Promotions bill.

‘Dynamite’ Dubois (15-0, 14 KOs) will be defending his British, Commonwealth and WBC Silver titles against Olympic silver medallist ‘Juggernaut’ Joyce (11-0, 10 KOs). The vacant European championship is also on the line.

The clash is one of the biggest fights in Heavyweight boxing and the winner will be in line for a world title challenge next year.

Here are a selection of quotes from today’s event.

FRANK WARREN

It’s 40 years of promoting for me on December 1 and this is the most mouth watering fight, three days before that anniversary. What makes it special? They are tremendous Heavyweights who have done everything asked so far. It rarely happens that they do fight at this stage of their careers, but when the fight was put out they both wanted it and didn’t take a backward step. That tells you their self-belief. They believe they have the beating of each other. There is no give in either of them. Joe’s got tremendous amateur experience, was robbed of the Gold medal in the Olympics. He brings that to the table. Daniel has dedicated his life to boxing and look at what he has done after having had just seven senior amateur fights. On the day you have all the experience and punching power of Joe and we have the young hungry lion who wants to get out and show what he has got. Daniel is a tremendous puncher and capturing everyone’s imagination. It’s got the ingredients of an amazing, amazing fight. Whatever happens the winner will become new mandatory for the WBO or fight Usyk for the vacant title if Anthony Joshua fights Tyson Fury. People talk about Daniel like he is a one trick pony and just has a big punch, but he has a great jab. It is superb. Every fight he brings something else. Joe will bring the best out of him. That’s why it is a phenomenal fight. How do I see it? Whoever controls this fight from the beginning will be the winner. This is it — a big moment in time for both of them. The winner is in the big time. If you’re going to watch any fight this year or in the next 12 months this is the one.

DANIEL DUBOIS

I feel confident and left no-stone unturned in training. I am not intimidated by his experience. He has never been in with a fighter like me before and I’m ready to go. I’ve accomplished what I’ve needed to and it’s my destiny. You can argue some guys he beat were past their prime. I am young and hungry. I am ready to go 12 rounds no problem if I have to. I am ready for a long, hard fight but also a quick one. I have the power in both hands to take him out. I will break him down and chop him up. People haven’t seen the best of me. This fight will show I can do something else. I am looking forward to showing my whole repertoire and skill. I want to win in devastating fashion and knock him out. I want to send a clear message to the rest of the fighters in the Heavyweight division and to the world that I am coming. I’m ready for war.

JOE JOYCE

I am not under pressure. I am confident and ready to do the business. The bookies have Daniel in a good position so he has the pressure to deliver. I’m the underdog and coming to take him out. I don’t care if people have written me off. My amateur experience makes a difference. I have been there and been tested. There are no questions about my ability and my achievements. Dubois hasn’t done anything in the Senior amateurs or quite yet in the pros. I feel I have achieved more in my fewer professional fights than he has. I have had the test and answered questions. I’m in a place where I’m ready to go for that world title. I have seen him knockout guys, but do you think I wouldn’t have knocked out those guys? I have power in both hands, I have a good chin, my engine is good and I’m ready to go 12 rounds if need be. If I see the opportunity I will punch him until he’s down. If his power doesn’t put me down he is in a heap of trouble. I’ve taken big punches and kept going forward. I prefer not to take them big shots. I want to move out of the way and not get hit. I’m not blessed with speed but I hit the target and keep coming. I don’t want to leave it to chance. I want to go to work, find my range and knock him out. I have nothing to say to him except respect your elders and he will do on Saturday night.

The most anticipated fight of the fall — the Oct. 17 lightweight unification showdown between Unified WBO World Champion Vasiliy “Loma” Lomachenko and IBF kingpin Teofimo Lopez from the MGM Grand Las Vegas “Bubble”— now has a two-course televised appetizer befitting the occasion.

In the 10-round junior welterweight co-feature, for the vacant WBO International Jr. Welterweight title Alex Saucedo Vs. Arnold Barboza, Jr.

Lomachenko-Lopez, Saucedo-Barboza and Berlanga-Bellows will be televised live on ESPN & ESPN Deportes beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

“Lomachenko-Lopez promises to be a classic, and the rest of the ESPN-televised card will set the table,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Barboza and Saucedo are players in the deep junior welterweight division, and both men are ferocious competitors. The winner is ready to challenge for a world title. As for Edgar Berlanga, every time he steps in the ring, he impresses me more and more. I haven’t seen a young puncher like him in quite some time.”

Saucedo (30-1, 19 KOs), the thunderous slugger from Oklahoma City, has won a pair of fights since falling short to Maurice Hooker in a November 2018 bid for the WBO junior welterweight world title. He is entering his third bout with head trainer Pedro Neme, a union that has paid dividends thus far. Saucedo knocked out Rod Salka in the first round last November and made his “Bubble” debut June 30 with a one-sided decision over Sonny Fredrickson.

Barboza (24-0, 10 KOs), from South El Monte, Calif., is a seven-year pro who is ranked in the top 10 by the WBO and WBC at 140 pounds. He graduated from prospect to contender with victories over the likes of Mike Reed, Mike Alvarado and William Silva. He last fought Aug. 29 as the co-feature to the Jose Ramirez-Viktor Postol junior welterweight world title bout and cruised to a one-sided decision over Canadian veteran Tony Luis.

“Arnold is a very versatile fighter, so we are preparing for everything,” Saucedo said. “I know it will be hard to steal the show from Lomachenko-Lopez, but I’m coming in to put on a memorable fight for the fans. I feel like people still doubt me from the Maurice Hooker fight, and I can’t wait to show everyone all of my tools.”

“This fight, and fighting on such a significant card, means the world to me,” Barboza said. “It’s time to put the 140-pound division on notice. I respect Saucedo, but he’s in my way as I strive to earn a world title opportunity.”

Congrats to WBO International Heavyweight Champion Daniel Dubois (15-0, 14 KO’s), who defeated Ricardo Snijders (18-2, 8 KOs) by 2nd-round TKO @ BT Sport Studio, Stratford, London. TV: ESPN+ & BT Sports

DANIEL DUBOIS will defend his WBO International Heavyweight title against Ricardo Snijders at BT Sport studios on Saturday August 29.

The British and Commonwealth champion was due to face Eric Pfeifer in a behind closed doors showdown, but issues with the Germans medical have derailed those plans.

Whilst it’s a blow for Londoner Dubois (14-0, 13KOs), Dutch title holder Snijders (18-1, 8KOs) has jumped at the chance to gatecrash the world rankings.

Dubois, 22, hasn’t boxed since last December and needs to sharpen his skills ahead of his highly anticipated showdown against Joe Joyce, scheduled for London’s O2 on Saturday October 24.

Promoter Frank Warren said: “Of course it’s a disappointment that we have had to make a late change, but the most important thing was getting Daniel a solid test.

“We’ve had Snijders training for weeks getting ready for this fight on the off chance there was an issue, and thank God we did.

“Pfeifer‘s team didn’t submit his MRI on time and given the current circumstances we couldn’t stand for the uncertainty or take the risk that the fight would be pulled at the last minute.

“Daniel hasn’t boxed since last December, some eight months ago. That’s a long time, especially for Daniel who has always been active.

“Daniel trained at home with his sister and younger brother during lockdown and he has been back in the gym with his trainer Martin Bowers for several weeks.

“Joe got an impressive win last month, so this is Daniel’s chance to show what he’s made of.

“Of course my nerves will be on edge a bit next week.

“They were until Joe came through against Michael Wallisch, and until Daniel’s arm is raised after the Snijders fight it will be the same.

“Snijders fancies the fight and was happy to say ‘yes’ and jump at the opportunity of his career. He’s coming up from Cruiserweight and wants to follow in the footsteps of fighters like Usyk, Haye and Bellew.”

Snijders, 26, turned professional in January 2016 and little more than two years later claimed the Dutch title.

Seven of his last eight wins have come inside the distance, and knows he will need his power to hold off Dubois.

In his last outing, Ricardo knocked out Istvan Kun inside two rounds.

Warren rates Dubois as the finest prospect in the Heavyweight division and the world governing bodies appear to agree.

Dubois is currently ranked number three for Anthony Joshua’s WBO belt and is at seven for the WBC title that is held by his Frank Warren stablemate Tyson Fury.

Warren added: “Providing Daniel can solve this Dutch puzzle, we can push on with the Joyce fight and then we can hope for a world title fight next year as a mandatory contender.”

Manchester Arena, Manchester – Zach Parker (18-0, 12 KOs stopped Rohan Murdock (24-1, 17 KOs) in the penultimate round to win the WBO International Super-Middleweight Title. The undefeated Derbyshire fighter took control of the fight after the halfway stage and floored the Australian No.1 with a left hook in the 11th round to force a stoppage and secure top ranking with the WBO. (photo by Mark Robinson)

Undefeated featherweight prospect Ruben Villa will make his fourth ShoBox: The New Generation appearance in just over a year as the former two-time Junior Olympic National Champion takes on hard-hitting Alexei Collado in a 10-round main event for Villa’s WBO International belt on Friday, January 31 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from Hirsch Memorial Coliseum in Shreveport, La.

The event is promoted by Banner Promotions, Thompson Boxing and Bishop Promotions LLC. Tickets can be purchased at www.Bishoppromotions.com and prices are $20-$100.

The 22-year-old Salinas, Calif., native Villa (17-0, 5 KOs) was also the 2014 and 2016 National Golden Gloves Champion and is currently ranked No. 5 at 126 pounds by the WBO and No. 13 by the WBC. Villa was a 2016 U.S. Olympic Team alternate, and had an impressive amateur record of 166-17 with wins against Devin Haney, Shakur Stevenson, and Gary Antonio Russell.

The southpaw Villa has looked impressive in each of his three previous ShoBox appearances, including his debut last January when he outclassed then-unbeaten Ruben Cervera. In May, Villa stepped up to 10-round status for the first time and won a unanimous decision against Luis Alberto Lopez and in September, Villa scored a second-round knockdown against Enrique Vivas en route to a comfortable shutout unanimous decision.

“I know my opponent has a good record at 26-2 and he has heavy hands, but he is wild,” Villa said. “I feel that I am close to a title eliminator by the middle or at the very latest at the end of 2020. ShoBox has helped me with my recognition and showcasing my talent. I am just thankful to be headlining once again on ShoBox. I know I’m close to making that next step up to contender so I have to look impressive on January 31.”

In Collado (26-2, 23 KOs), Villa will face a tough, 31-year-old Cuban currently living and training in Miami. Collado is on a seven-bout winning streak with six KOs and was active in 2019 winning four times, including his last victory via first-round KO against Facundo Eduardo Ased four days before Christmas. Collado won the 2006 Junior World Title in the flyweight division.

“I participated on a ShoBox event in the past and I couldn’t close the show,” said Collado, who made his ShoBox debut in April of 2014 in a 10-round lightweight unanimous decision loss to Rod Salka. “This time the story will be different and I am more than ready for Ruben Villa. Ruben is a young talented boxer but he will not be able to do with me what he was able to do to other guys. I’m far more experienced, much stronger and way smarter than all the guys put together that he has faced so far. This is an opportunity that I will not take for granted, Villa better be ready to get shocked.”

Top heavyweight prospect Daniel Dubois closed out a successful 2019 with an easy second round knockout of Japan’s Kyotaro Fujimoto today in London for the WBO International Heavyweight title.

Dubois (14-0, 13 KO) seemed to sting Fujimoto immediately with a jab, after which Fujimoto (21-2, 13 KO) didn’t seem particularly eager to engage with the much taller man. The Japanese heavyweight was dropped early in the second round on a stiff jab, and then knocked clean out with a right hand bomb. Official time of the stoppage was 2:10 of the second round.

Dubois, 22, has the makings and the hype of a real top heavyweight, and he passed his five tests this year, the biggest of which was a fifth round knockout of Nathan Gorman on July 13.

“I knew I had the power, and I was really confident in what I was going to do tonight,” Dubois said. “What can I say? The light switched on, and that was goodnight.”

Asked about what’s next, promoter Frank Warren says he plans to have Dubois back in April at London’s O2 Arena, and the idea of Dubois fighting Joe Joyce came up. Joyce’s manager said he’s interested, Warren and Dubois said they’re up for it. Joyce, for what it’s worth, is set to go out next on Jan. 11 in Germany, where he faces Marco Huck for the vacant European heavyweight title.

Photo by www.bbc.com

Via Scott Christ / Badlefthook.com

FRANK WARREN today revealed details of Queensberry Promotions’ bumper ‘The Fight Before Christmas’ show at London’s Copper Box Arena on Saturday December 21.

The world’s number one heavyweight prospect Daniel Dubois (13-0, 12KOs) tops the bill when he defends his WBO International heavyweight title against Kyotaro Fujimoto (21-1, 13KOs).

FRANK WARREN:
“Fujimoto is ranked 12 by the WBA, has a good record and this is a fight that will get Daniel a lot of exposure as we strive to make him a global brand.

“We are working on making Daniel a number one contender with a governing body. I will get him there.

“I loved what I saw of Daniel as a senior amateur, but what he has done as a professional has been punch perfect. At this stage of his career he is the best young heavyweight I have seen in British boxing.

“He is in love with boxing. His mission is to become unified world champion and he will do it. I could make a world title fight tomorrow and he would win, but he needs that little bit more experience. When he wins a world title it is about making sure he keeps it.

“This time next year he is going to do the business (in a world title). And next year there could also be a collision with Joe Joyce.

“Tommy will go much further than KSI as a boxer. He has a great future. There is a lot of pressure through Love Island, but he is confident and mature enough to deal with that. He has a career and it’s my job to deliver and guide him so he can achieve his dreams. If he keeps his side of the bargain and trains we can go on.

I am delighted he is back. He came into the sport as the brother of Tyson and now he is his own man. It will be a cracking card and a Christmas present for the fans.”

DANIEL DUBOIS
“I am very happy. My career has been perfect so far and I have progressed in and out of the ring. I am with Frank Warren who is one of the best promoters ever and there is my Dad, Martin and Tony Bowers. We are going all the way. My trainer Martin has organised so much and puts in so much hard work. I am going to make sure I become a success.

“It is coming together and in each camp I have improved. If I can get to a world title challenge soon I am more than ready. Timing is everything. I will continue winning in style and I will get there soon. It is a hell of a challenge against Fujimoto, but I will be ready and take him out in devastating fashion.

“The boxing audience is taking notice and that is down to the hard work we put in. I’m ready for the next step. I love the recognition. It is what I have been after since I was five-years-old. My feet are on the ground. I just stick to what I am good at and remain humble.

“And I have been a student of this sport since I was young. I am obsessed by it all. The sport is filled with great fighters and I want to be a legend when I have finished.

“Fear is an asset for me. It’s a weapon and I use it in every fight.”

Tickets from £40 are now on sale via Seetickets and will be available via Ticketmaster on Wednesday.

Four months ago, Salinas native and Everett Alvarez alum Ruben Villa added another title to his name: World Boxing Organization (WBO) International Featherweight champion.

This Friday, he’ll have to do something new: defend his title.

“It’s more personal because winning a title isn’t as hard as keeping a title,” Villa said Wednesday. “I plan on defending my title, it means a lot to me. It gives me more motivation to win this fight and I plan to take this home with me.”

Villa’s challenger on Friday — Texcoco, Mexico native Jose Enrique Durantes Vivas — is the second undefeated opponent he’s faced this year.

Vivas (17-0, 9 KOs) is known for his aggressive style from a background in martial arts and kickboxing. He went 93-7 as an amateur and won national, regional and state championships in Mexico.

Nicknamed the “El Ejecutor” (The Executioner), he’ll be fighting for just the second time on U.S. soil when he steps into ring Friday night.

“I am very happy I got this opportunity,” Vivas said in a release from Thompson Boxing Promotions. “Villa is a very strong southpaw with a lot of experience. He is one of the best featherweights out there. I’m up for the challenge.”

Vivas and Villa are familiar, having sparred earlier this year during training for different fights.

“I know he’s aggressive,” Villa said. “I know what he’s like, I just have to be smart and be safe out there.”

Friday’s fight marks another time that Villa will be featured on ShoBox: The New Generation program on Showtime, something that’s increased his visibility.

“I’m getting recognized outside of Salinas now,” Villa said. “It’s a good thing (being on ShoBox). I know Showtime doesn’t put just anyone on there so I take it seriously.”

The event starts at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the La Hacienda Event Center in Midland, Texas. ShoBox: The New Generation airs starting at 7:30 p.m. again on Showtime and check out shobox.com for viewing options.

Via Ayrton Ostly, Salinas Californian
https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/mma/salinas-boxer-ruben-villa-set-to-defend-wbo-featherweight-title-friday/ar-AAHy46z

Grozny, Russia – Umar Salamov celebrated his Grozny homecoming with fireworks. The lanky fighter made easy work of Ghanaian Emmanuel Danso, stopping him at 2:44 of the third to retain his WBO International light heavyweight title.

Short and stocky Danso, though powerful (now 31-5, 28 KOs), was no match to the power and skill asset of the WBO #4 /IBF #6 / WBA #10 rated contender. Salamov softened up Danso in the first before rocking him badly with a right hand in the closing seconds.

The Chechen continued to dominate in the second. In the third he first dropped the smaller African with two consecutive right hands. Then closed the show on another right hand. Salamov is now 25-1, 19 KOs.

WBO #8 super middleweight Aslambek Idigov was forced to work very hard to overcome tough resistance of Czech and Slovakian national champion Robert Racz (21-2, 19 KOs). He got the job done through sweat and pain, scoring a unanimous decision – 98-94, 97-93, and 98-92 – and thus retaining his WBO European and IBF European 168lb titles.

Idigov, 23, was the one who pressed forward early on, trying to overwhelm Racz. The Slovakian was up for the task, countering Idigov hard every time he found an opening.

Idigov was rocked a couple of times in the opening rounds but prevailed just narrowly through his pressure and ultimately desire to prevail. As rounds went by, Idigov got more successful and used finesse he lacked early on to frustrate capable and durable but slow opponent. Racz still was dangerous but his offensive outbursts got less frequent by the end of the fight.

Via Alexey Sukachev / BoxingScene.com

The coming Thursday will mark the next return of professional boxing to Grozny, the capital of the Chechen Republic and one of the hotbeds of martial arts in Russia. Staged by Akhmat Promotion Company at the Uvais Akhtaev Sports Palace is a huge fight card, which will see the best of local boxing against top intrinsic and international opposition, which includes a former world champion among others.

Headlining the show is WBO #8 super middleweight Aslambek Idigov (16-0, 7 KOs), 23. Having started his pro career at a tender age of 17 and having competed mostly in Ukraine, he has been campaigning in Russian for the last three years. Idigov will face Slovakian opponent Robert Racz (21-1, 19 KOs) for the WBO European title belonging to the Chechen fighter Idigov. Racz’s record looks solid but it will be his debut outside of Hungary/Slovakia/Czech Republic, where he has been fighting since the onset of his career.

In a co-featured bout of the evening, WBO #4 light heavyweight Umar Salamov (24-1, 18 KOs), still 25, will continue his redeem against 30-year old Ghanaian Emanuel Danso (31-4, 26 KOs for Salamov WBO International Light Heavyweight Title. Salamov has been 5-0, 4 KOs, since his upset loss to Australian Olympian Damien Hooper in 2017.

The show will be aired live by Boets TV channel.

via Alexey Sukachev / BoxingScene.com

Below are quotes from the final Dillian Whyte vs. Joseph Parker press conference ahead of Saturday night’s action at The O2 in London, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Dillian Whyte: “Joseph is a fighting man, that’s his heritage, but he’s short of options. He could have gone to USA to fight Bryant Jennings for a small purse and no attention or come to the UK in front of a sell-out crowd and get better pay and a more prestigious fight. He’s motivated – he knows beating me gets him close to another shot at AJ, so that’s what makes him dangerous: “if I do Dillian, I’m back in the big time again” – but he’s got to get past me first.

Joseph Parker: “It was important to get back in the ring in another big fight straight away. Dillian is on the cusp of fighting for a world title and beating him would put me right back at that top table. There won’t be any excuses from me. I’m here to do damage and I’m here to punch with bad intentions. I’m going to break him down and he’s going to take a lot of punches. He’s been talking a lot of smack in the build up and I believe that is a sign of self doubt. I hope he’s ready to take a lot of punches because I’m going to give it to him real bad. He thinks I can’t go to war, let’s wait and see.”

Promoter Eddie Hearn: “Dillian could easily have sat back and waited for his shot at WBC king Deontay Wilder, but the Brixton man is not one to wait patiently in line – this is a real 50-50 contest and I’ve no doubt that the winner will be in world title action very soon.”

Carlos Takam: “I’m very glad to be back here in the UK. When I was offered the fight against Dereck I immediately accepted it. Dereck is as tough as they come and I’m prepared for a tough night.”

Dereck Chisora: “Carlos took AJ rounds, he’s a tough guy so this is no walk in the park – it’s a marathon. He goes rounds with good fighters so I know that I’ve got 12 rounds ahead of me. They asked for this at the beginning of the year but there was no right slot for it at that time. I know it’s going to be a long night, there’s no two ways about it. I didn’t learn anything from his AJ fight as he was fighting a different game than he’ll bring tonight, I just want him to be in front of me so we can have a good time.

https://fightnews.com/whyte-parker-final-press-conference/26256

The blockbuster Heavyweight clash between Dillian Whyte and Joseph Parker has now officially sold out after final production holds were released this week.

Whyte and Parker collide for the WBC Silver and WBO International Heavyweight crowns this Saturday at The O2 in London, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

‘The Body Snatcher’ is on the cusp of World title action after destroying Lucas Browne with a devastating sixth round KO in London in March to defend the WBC Silver title and number one ranking he’d landed by beating Robert Helenius in Cardiff in October.

Parker is back in the UK after fighting in the Welsh capital in an historic unification battle with Anthony Joshua in March, with Whyte’s old foe handing a first career defeat for the New Zealand star on points.

“This is a hugely important clash for the Heavyweight division that has captured the imagination of the public,” said Promoter Eddie Hearn.

“Dillian Whyte’s career is on a ferocious upward curve right now and his popularity is continuing to grow.

“Dillian’s brutal KO of Australian Lucas Browne at The O2 in March underlined that prowess at the top level and now another visitor from down under is here to try to halt Dillian’s rise to the top.

“Joseph Parker is a softly spoken and likeable man – but make no mistake that in the ring, he’s all business and has bad intentions for Dillian – this is a real 50-50 contest and I’ve no doubt that the winner will be in World title action very soon.”

https://www.boxingnews24.com/2018/07/whyte-vs-parker-sells-out-the-o2/

Danish cruiserweight Micki Nielsen (25-1, 15 KOs) has been forced to withdraw from his WBO International title contest with Artur Mann (13-0, 8 KOs) on June 2 at the Swiss Life Hall in Hannover, Germany after injuring his hand in sparring.

“I’m really disappointed,” said Nielsen. “It was an accident in sparring. I hit my opponent on the top of the hip and piece of bone came loose in my left hand. I’ve been to the hospital for X-rays, and I hope the injury won’t keep me out of the ring for long.”

Mann, who headlines his hometown arena, will instead meet undefeated countryman Alexander Peil (10-0, 6 KOs) in an all-German duel for the WBO International belt.

“It’s a pity Micki got injured. I was looking forward to that fight,” said Mann. “I had prepared perfectly, but now it’s Alexander Peil who stands in my way, and the audience can now look forward to an exciting contest between two undefeated German fighters.”

Despite taking the fight at late notice, both Peil and his manager Rainer Gottwald have expressed their delight at landing this title challenge at the Swiss Life Hall in Hannover.

“We’ve been wanting to fight Artur Mann for a long time and now we finally get him,” said Gottwald. “Even though the preparation time is very short for Alexander – we’ll give everything in Hanover to take the title!”

“Finally I get to fight Mann. I am very happy about that,” adds Peil, the 28 year-old from Hennef, Nordrhein-Westfalen, who returns to the ring following a first-round stoppage victory over Tibor Varga at the Ufgauhalle, Karlsruhe on March 3.

Tickets for the WBO International Cruiserweight Championship contest between Artur Mann and Alexander Peil are available online via www.eventim.de. All the action from the Swiss Life Hall in Hannover will be shown live and exclusive on Sport1 in Germany.

Via Sauerland Promotions

By Alexey Sukachev

Moscow, RussiaFormer WBA heavyweight champion Alexander Povetkin (32-1, 23 KOs) of Russia returned for the first time since December, to win a twelve round unanimous decision over Andriy Rudenko (31-3, 19 KOs) of Ukraine to win the WBO International and WBA Continental heavyweight titles.

In what nearly became a very disappointing fight – in the very first round, Rudenko claimed that he was cuffed to the back of the neck when they were fighting on the inside, and he almost quit the fight.  He began complaining of a neck injury and was refusing to fight for nearly five minutes, but eventually agreed to box on.

Once the fight restarted, Povetkin’s advantage became visible. Rudenko was on the defensive in every round but he still managed to land some serious punches in middle rounds. Nevertheless, the Russian boxer was better in almost every department.

Rudenko was game enough to walk through pain and fatigue in later rounds as Povetkin applied some smart pressure and also started to use his body shots. The Ukrainian clinched it to the final bell despite being hurt and dazzled at the end.

The judges scored the contest 120-109, 120-108, 120-108.

www.boxingscene.com/povetkin-decisions-rudenko-gain-wba-wbo-regional-results–118087?print_friendly=1

 

Light heavyweight Umar Salamov came in at number 8 in the WBO’s latest ratings after his stellar performance stopping Emil Markic (24-1) on the undercard of Joseph Parker’s heavyweight world title defense in New Zealand earlier this month.

At just 22 years old Salamov stands an imposing figure at 6’3 tall and has already achieved plenty in his 19 fights to date.

He has held 2 versions of world youth titles with the IBO and WBO, the WBO European and IBO World titles.

In his last outing, he secured the WBO International & IBF East/West European titles.

He is set to go again on July 2nd on the Jeff Hon vs Manny Pacquiao undercard where he is scheduled to face former Aussie Olympian Damian ‘Super’ Hooper.

Trainer Kevin Barry said: ‘I am hearing rumors Hooper is treating this fight as his own personal version of a world title fight as he knows doors will fly open for him if he can get a win over Umar.

“So we are training for a hard-long fight against a willing opponent who has excellent skills.

“We didn’t have to call Hooper out – he actually contacted our matchmaker Stuart Duncan wanting the fight.”

Umar’s manager Kazbek Aslambekov said it would be foolish and disrespectful to look beyond Hooper at this stage other than confirming it is the team’s intention to have him fight at least two or three more times in 2017.

www.worldboxingnews.net/2017/05/31/news/umar-salamov-to-fight-damien-hooper-on-pacquiao-undercard

Date:  Saturday, May 6, 2017

WBO International Lt. Heavyweight Title Bout

Location: Vodafone Events Centre,  Manukau City, New Zealand

Promoter:    Duco Events / David Higgins and Top Rank / Bob Arum

Supervisor:   Danny Leigh

Referee:  Danrex Tapdasan

Judges:  Ian Scott, Darcy Williams, Arnaru Harriman

Results:    The Vacant WBO International Lt. Heavyweight Title was won by Umar Salamov against Emil Markic by KO’ed on 4th. round.

TV:  United Kingdom SKY, New Zealand Sky Arena, Australia FOX

tso-mukai-yamada  Photos: Sumio Yamada

Rex Tso 115 vs. Hirofumi Mukai 115
(WBO International, WBO Asia Pacific, WBC Asian Boxing Council super flyweight titles)

Kenny Demecillo 117 vs. Mark Anthony Geraldo 117.5
(WBO Oriental bantamweight title)

Takuya Watanabe 129 vs. Phum Kunmat 129
Tom Taw 159 vs. Tsun Yin Jeremy Lee
Raymond Poon KaiChing vs. Tat Fai Yiu 160
Raymond Poon Kai Ching 108 vs. Tat Fai Yiu 108
Rey Megrino 121 vs. Yuki Strong Kobayashi 122
Surez Gurung 122 vs. Wai Hung Tong 121
Pak Tsung Cheung 121 vs. Shun On Chan 122
Edwin Ng 121 vs. Ka Sun Leung 121

Promoter: DEF Promotions

Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center, Hong Kong

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www.fightnews.com/Boxing/weights-hong-kong-2-397030#more-397030

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Trainer Ulli Wegner has hit back at claims questioning former world champion Arthur Abraham’s (44-5, 29 KOs) motivation prior to his WBO International super middleweight title fight with little-known Tim-Robin Lihaug (15-1, 8 KOs) on July 16 at the Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin.

Lihaug’s trainer Thomas Hansvoll had called into question Abraham’s desire, stating that he believed the former two-weight World Champion ‘had lost his hunger’ and after years at the top of the sport was ‘not so interested anymore.’ Wegner has disputed these remarks, and says Abraham is hungrier than ever as he looks to regain the world title he lost to Gilberto Ramirez, starting with a victory over Lihaug.

“The loss to Gilberto Ramirez has only made Arthur more determined,” said the 74 year-old coach. “Now he is without a world title, the hunted has become the hunter. He feels a new kind of motivation, and we will see that in the ring on July 16.

“Obviously it was a big blow to lose the title in Las Vegas, but now we must work together to reach the top again. I believe he has what it takes to become World Champion again, if I did not, I would be the first person to tell him to retire. Anyone who knows me knows I am always honest in my assessments, and I can tell you this is not the end of the road for Arthur.”

While optimistic for the future, Wegner realises another defeat could signal the end of Abraham’s career. “Anything but a win would be disastrous for Arthur,” he says. ”But we’ve trained well and I’m confident his hand will be raised.”

www.fightnews.com/Boxing/abraham-trainer-says-king-arthur-still-hungry-344993

 

 

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By Karl Freitag
Photos: Mikey Williams / Top Rank –

WBO junior lightweight world champion Rocky Martinez (29-2-2, 17 KOs) faced off with WBO featherweight world champion Vasyl Lomachenko (5-1, 3 KOs) in advance of their HBO-televised world title showdown on Saturday night in The Theatre at Madison Square Garden, New York City. In the HBO co-feature, WBO #2 rated lightweight champ Felix “El Diamante” Verdejo (21-0, 14 KOs) faces WBC #11 Juan Jose “Piquet” Martinez (25-2, 17 KOs) for the WBO Latino championship. Also, two-time Olympic gold medalist Zou Shiming (7-1, 2 KOs) meets Jozsef Ajtai (15-2, 10 KOs) for the WBO international flyweight chmpionship.

Rocky Martinez: “If you want to beat me, than you have to kill me, but to kill me you have to prepared to be killed in the ring too.”

Vasyl Lomachenko: “I’m ready to put up $300,000 of my purse as long as Rocky Martinez will put up $300,000 if I win.”

Felix Verdejo: “In Muhammad Ali’s honor, I will give a great fight.”

JJ Martinez: “We will take that title to Mexico.”

Bob Arum: “We will probably have a bigger audience in China than all of the HBO fights for the last three years combined. We expect an audience of perhaps as many as 50 million homes will be watching the Chinese star Zou Shiming.”

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www.fightnews.com/Boxing/martinez-lomachenko-clash-heats-up-341340