Elwin “Pulga” Soto (15-1, 10 KOs) of Mexicali, Mexico captured the WBO Jr. Flyweight World Title against Angel ‘Tito’ Acosta (20-2, 20 KOs) of San Juan, Puerto Rico via twelfth-round TKO in an action-packed fight at the Fantasy Springs Resort & Casino in Indio, California. Soto won with time 0:23 of the just-mentioned round.

“The truth is I feel nice,” said Elwin Soto. “It feels great to accomplish this. I worked very hard and put a lot of effort into this. To be honest I thought I was going to lose and thank god I landed that punch and won the fight. When I first dropped him, I felt I could have stopped him, but I knew it was going 12 rounds. This is victory means a lot and dedicate this belt to my family.”

“I’m a little disappointed,” said Angel Acosta. “Sure, he hurt me but not enough for the stoppage. If I had the chance to do it again, I would have used my jab more and used my distance more just like I did in the gym. I told the referee he shouldn’t have stopped the fight. I was coming back to get him, but he shouldn’t have stopped the fight. Look it was the last round, there was not much more in the round. I would like to fight the same opponent or the other champions in the division.”

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Barrow’s Liam Conroy came narrowly short in his bid to become the WBO European light heavyweight champion on Friday night, as he was defeated on points by former sparring partner Steven Ward.

In what was a pulsating and brutal contest at Belfast’s Ulster Hall, Conroy came close to winning the bout against the undefeated hometown hero on more than one occasion, although both fighters rained in punches throughout.

A clash of heads in the second round led to a cut just above Ward’s left eye and by the eighth that had become a deep gash with blood pouring out, eventually leaving the referee with no option but to stop the fight.

But because the cut was down to a head clash, it went to the judges, with all three scoring the bout 76-75 in Ward’s favor, showing there was very little between the two combatants.

There was nothing cagey about this title fight, which headlined the night, bar the first couple of minutes of the opening round.

Ward was the early aggressor, but Conroy took control in the second, hammering in some big shots while he had his opponent on the ropes.

The 26-year-old then knocked Ward down in the fourth with a left hook, but Ward showed his toughness by not only quickly shaking that setback off, but by also going on to control the next two rounds.

That eventually proved a crucial stage of the bout and Conroy looked to be tiring during it, but the Barrow ABC graduate found a second wind in the seventh, with a big right hand rocking his opponent once more.

At was at this point, however, where Ward’s cut had become a real problem, with the blood spilt from it actually causing Conroy to slip on the canvas in the eighth, and that eventually brought a premature end to a fight that deserved a grander finish.

via https://www.nwemail.co.uk/sport/17723326.barrows-liam-conroy-defeated-on-points-by-belfasts-steven-ward-in-wbo-european-light-heavyweight-fight/

Photo via https://www.facebook.com/belfastboxers/

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Dina Thorslund (13-0, 6 KOs) and April Adams (11-1-1, 4 KOs) both made weight ahead of Saturday’s WBO Female World Jr. Featherweight title showdown at the Forum Horsens in Denmark.

Thorslund defended the WBO World title against Germany’s Alesia Graf in January 2019 in Struer, Denmark and is now facing April ‘Armageddon’ Adams from Brisbane, Australia.

The undefeated 25-year-old Dane has predicted a KO victory, while Adams believes she has what it takes to bring the WBO belt back to Australia.

WEIGH-IN WBO Female World Championship – 10 Rounds
Dina Thorslund: 55,2 kg
April Adams: 54,9 kg

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Luis Batista Salas, Esq. Chairman WBO Championship Committee

June 21st 2019

VIA EMAIL: BOB ARUM TOP RANK PROMOTIONS & ERIC GOMEZ GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS

Re: WBO Jr. Lightweight Mandatory Championship Contest Jamel Herring vs. Lamont Roach

Gentlemen:

Please be advised the parties have thirty days (30) upon receipt of this letter to negotiate and reach an agreement regarding the WBO Jr. Lightweight Mandatory Championship Contest between WBO Jr. Lightweight Champion Jamel Herring and Mandatory Challenger Lamont Roach. If an accord is not reached within the time frame stated herein, a Purse Bid will be ordered pursuant to our WBO Regulations of World Championship Contests.

The minimum acceptable bid for the WBO Jr. Lightweight Division is $150,000.00 (OneHundred Fifty Thousand Dollars). Any of the parties involved may request a purse bid procedure at any time during the negotiation process.

Yours truly,
Luis Batista Salas, Esq.

Cc: Francisco Valcárcel, Esq.
WBO President

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From: Luis Batista Salas, Esq. Chairman WBO Championship Committee

June 21st 2019

To:
Mr. Kenneth Ralph Rontal Championship Boxing Promotions
Mr. Ivan Rivera PR Best Boxing Promotions

Re: WBO MINI-FLYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP CONTEST – PURSE BID VIC SALUDAR VS. WILFREDO MENDEZ

Gentlemen: As per Section 11 through 14 of the enclosed copy of the WBO Regulations of World Championship Contests (www.wboboxing.com), please be advised that a Purse Bid will be held at 11:00 a.m. AST on Thursday, June 27th, 2019, at the World Boxing Organization headquarter offices at San Juan, Puerto Rico.

World Boxing Organization Headquarter Offices
1056 Muñoz Rivera Avenue
Suite 711-714
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00927

Pursuant to our WBO Regulations of World Championship Contests on Purse Bid procedures, kindly note:

The Minimum acceptable bid for the WBO Mini-Flyweight Division is $80,000.00 (Eighty Thousand Dollars). WBO President Francisco Valcárcel, Esq. will preside purse bid proceedings.

Kindly note the following provisions:

1. If the Champion is injured and depending on the type of injury and the needed recovery time, the WBO Championship Committee, in accordance to the WBO Regulations, will decide if the title is vacated or an interim championship is ordered.

2. If the Challenger is injured or refuses to fight, he loses his position in the rankings and the WBO World Championship Committee can determine the next available contender, or it can order an Elimination bout with the two best available contenders, and the Champion can be permitted a Voluntary bout.

3. Signed contracts shall be filed to the WBO Offices within five (5) days upon the adjudication of the Purse Bid.

Section 13 (a) subsections (1) (A) and (B) of the WBO Regulations of World Championship Contests provides:

1. The Purse for Championship Contests held and completed pursuant to Purse Bids shall be distributed as follows:

(1) CHAMPIONSHIPS WITH AN EXISTING CHAMPION

(a) In fights for the Title between the Champion and the Mandatory Challenger held in the country of origin, residence or nationality of the Champion, the Champion shall receive 75% of the purse and the Challenger shall receive the remaining 25%. (b) In a fight for the Title held in any other country, the Champion shall receive 80% of the purse and the Challenger shall receive the remaining 20%. Please be advised that the parties must comply fully with the WBO Regulations of World Championship Contests regarding Purse Bid procedures. Yours Truly,

Luis Batista Salas, Esq.

Cc: Francisco “Paco” Valcárcel, Esq.
WBO President

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STEVEN Ward headlines a stacked bill at the Ulster Hall tonight when he takes on Liam Conroy for the vacant WBO European light-heavyweight title.

Conroy (17-4-1) was knocked out by hard-hitting Joshua Buatsi after three rounds of their British title rumble in March but he intends to recover lost ground against ‘The Quiet Man’ tonight. The Englishman is busy, game and confident and but Jamie Moore-trained Ward looked in great form in his last outing at the Ulster Hall – against Josip Perkovic – and he will hope to utilise that slick movement and devastating body-punching again at the popular Bedford Street venue.

“I want to keep moving forward and moving up,” he said.

“Liam Conroy has been where I want to be at British level and beyond, so all being well I’ll get past this fight and I’m sure I can push on for that level after this.”

Former English champion Conroy countered: “This is not personal for me.

“I’m not going to say anything bad about him as this is just a sport and I’m here to box to my best and bring that title back to Barrow.

“We’re both family people and down to earth. I don’t know him well enough to say how similar we are, but as fighters I think our styles blend well.

“We had a lot of good spars that were always fairly close, so it looks like it’ll be a good fight on Friday.”

More at https://www.irishnews.com/sport/boxing/2019/06/21/news/steven-ward-takes-on-liam-conroy-for-the-vacant-wbo-european-light-heavyweight-title–1646536/

weigh-in

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Kazuto Ioka becomes first Japanese four-division champ with TKO of Aston Palicte

CHIBA – Veteran Kazuto Ioka became the first Japanese boxer to capture world titles in four different weight divisions with a dramatic 10th-round technical knockout of top contender Aston Palicte of the Philippines for the vacant WBO super flyweight championship at Makuhari Messe Event Hall on Wednesday night.

Ioka fought carefully and patiently against the bigger Palicte, who seemed much more powerful, putting his guard up for much of the bout.

But the 30-year-old’s outstanding defensive technique and footwork finally paid off in the decisive round when he landed a heavy counter blow to Palicte and rained down punch after punch on his opponent.

Paclite was soon unable to do anything to fend off Ioka’s attacks and referee Kenny Chevalier got in between the two fighters and waved his hand to stop it with 1 minute, 14 seconds left in the round.

“I’ve dedicated everything I’ve got to getting this belt,” said Ioka (24-2, 14 KOs), who competed in his native Japan for the first time in two years and two months. “It’s been a while for me to fight in Japan, but I’m thrilled that I’ve been able to accomplish the four-division titles on Japanese soil.”

The 28-year-old Palicte, who was the No. 1 contender, fell to 25-2-1 (21 KOs) in his pro career.

There have been six Japanese boxers, including Ioka, who have captured world titles in three different weight divisions.

Ioka fought against the Philippines’ Donnie Nietes in Macau last December looking to become a four-division king but fell short in a decision.

Ioka, a Sakai, Osaka Prefecture, native, returned from a brief retirement last year.

via BY KAZ NAGATSUKA / www.japantimes.co.jp
Photo by KYODO

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Slick-punching Miyo Yoshida (13-1, no KO), 114.25, acquired the vacant WBO Female Jr. Bantamweight belt by scoring a nearly shutout decision (100-90 twice, 99-91) over Casey Morton (8-2-3, 1 KO), 115, over ten hard-fought rounds on Wednesday in Chiba, Japan as part of Ioka-Palicte undercard.

Yoshida, despite her lack of convincing power, displayed good precision in connecting with sharp left-right combinations and right uppercuts to the onrushing opponent, 35, handled by Nonito Donaire’s father.

The 31-year-old Yoshida’s sharpshooting accounted for her long-anticipated coronation.

Photo by efight.jp

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Tomorrow we’ll see the highly anticipated match up between Kazuto Ioka (23-2, 13) [井岡一翔] and Aston Palicte (25-2-1, 21), who battle for the vacant WBO Jr. Bantamweight title in Chiba.

Today, ahead of their bout, the two fighters took part in their weigh in, and both men made the limit with a bit of room to spare, though it was clear that there was significant size difference between the two, and that was expected to be amplified tomorrow when the fighters get in the ring.

​On the scales Palicte was around 114.9lbs, and looked in tremendous shape, full of confidence and told the press he felt really good, he was wanting to go for the KO and declared that he would take the win, and the world title. It was revealed he was expecting to put on over 10lbs over-night and expects to be 127lbs in the ring tomorrow. If he does that he is expected to have a rather significant weight advantage, to go with his height and reach.

Ioka, who is expected to be the much lighter man tomorrow, was also lighter today, weighing in at ​around 114.6lbs. He spoke about being happy to fight back in a Japanese ring, for the first time in well over 2 years, he seemed confident and like he was glad to have experience of fighting at Super Flyweight, and knowing how to safely make weight and improve his post-weigh in recovery.

For fans wanting to watch this it will be aired on TBS, and affiliates, in Japan and UFC Fight Pass, though we’re not certain which areas fight pass will be airing this other than the US. The Japanese broadcast for the bout will begin at 9PM local time.

via asianboxing.info

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Tomorrow in Chiba we’ll see Miyo Yoshida (12-1) [吉田 実代] and Casey Morton (8-1-3, 1) battle to become the new WBO female Jr. Bantamweight champion. Today, ahead of tomorrow’s bout, the two fighters took part in their weigh in, and both successfully made weight for the contest.

On the scales Yoshida had no problems at all, in fact despite regularly fighting at Bantamweight she was only 114.2lbs on the scales here and seemed to have taken her preparations incredibly seriously.

Morton quite so lucky, originally coming in over the Jr. Bantamweight limit, before rushing to the bathroom and cutting her hair, getting her under the limit with a little bit of wriggle room to spare, at around 114.9lbs.

For those wanting to watch the bout it will, sadly, only be available to users of the Paravi service in Japan, a pay TV service, who will air the bout live. Unfortunately, the service is geo-locked for those outside of Japan.

via asianboxing.info

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This Wednesday from Japan, Kazuto Ioka takes on Aston Palicte for a vacant title, the first world title boxing fight to ever air on UFC Fight Pass, where it will stream for subscribers at 8 am ET on June 19.

What’s at stake?
The vacant WBO Jr. Bantamweight title is on the line in Chiba. Both fighters have recently competed for that belt, and it was vacant in each of those fights, too. Palicte had a controversial draw with Donnie Nietes last September, and then Ioka controversially lost to Nietes on New Year’s Eve in Macau. Nietes has since vacated the title.

How did Kazuto Ioka get here?
Ioka is the nephew of Hiroki Ioka, who fought professionally from 1986-1998 and won world titles at 105 and 108, and challenged for titles at 112 and 115. Kazuto became a very good domestic amateur, but failed to qualify for the 2008 Olympics and turned pro in 2009.

Now 30, Ioka has had a decorated 10-year pro career. He won the Japanese 108-pound title in his sixth pro fight in Oct. 2010, then moved down to 105 to win the WBC title in Feb. 2011, beating Oleydong Sithsamerchai in Kobe via fifth round stoppage, dominating the fight. He made a pair of successful defenses in 2011 and then gained the WBA title in a unification win over Akira Yaegashi in June 2012, which would be Ioka’s final fight at 105 pounds.

Moving back up to 108, Ioka immediately won a WBA title on New Year’s Eve 2012, and made three successful defenses and moved up again, losing a split decision loss to IBF flyweight titleholder Amnat Ruenroeng, an old amateur rival of Ioka’s, in May 2014.

Ioka picked up a flyweight belt in 2015, though, beating Juan Carlos Reveco via majority decision in Osaka. After five defenses of the title, Ioka announced a stunning retirement at age 28 — he had gotten married and had a falling out with his father and promoter, Kazunori Ioka.

After about 16 months out of the ring, Ioka returned in Sept. 2018 as a Jr. Bantamweight, scoring a solid decision win over McWilliams Arroyo on HBO airwaves, which was Ioka’s first fight in the United States. Three months later, he lost a split decision to Donnie Nietes in Macau.

Ioka again chases a world title in a fourth weight class on Wednesday. He’ll be fighting in Japan for the first time in over two years, and will look to make a triumphant return.

How did Aston Palicte get here?
Palicte, like Ioka, was a good amateur but didn’t have significant international success. The Filipino turned pro in Aug. 2010, winning his first 10 fights before being tripped up against Romnick Magos in Dec. 2012, stopped after four rounds.

Palicte would rally, winning another 10 straight before suffering a second setback in March 2016, losing a split decision over 10 rounds to Junior Granados in Mexico. Again, he came back in winning form; two fights later, he handed Oscar Cantu his first pro loss in Palicte’s US debut in Dec. 2016.

After wins over John Mark Apolinario and Jose Alfredo Rodriguez in 2017, Palicte was matched with Donnie Nietes on HBO, with the vacant WBO Jr. Bantamweight title at stake in Sept. 2018. Nietes appeared to have comfortably won, but the judges had a split draw in California.

In January, just days after his 28th birthday, Palicte stopped Jose Martinez in the second round, and on Wednesday, he goes for the WBO belt again.

Ioka-Palicte isn’t the only vacant WBO Jr. Bantamweight title fight on this card, as the women will fight for the same belt on their side. Miyo Yoshida (12-1, 0 KO) will face Casey Morton (8-1-3, 1 KO) for the female world title.

via https://www.badlefthook.com/2019/6/16/18681235/ioka-vs-palicte-preview-ufc-fight-pass-boxing-rjj-fight-time-kiyoguchi-satanmuanglek-yoshida-morton

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Ekaterinburg, the biggest city of the Ural region of Russia, is a point where boxing powers unite – at least for about a week – as part of the Global Boxing Forum, a specific event to unite efforts in search for order and stability in the sport (both amateur and professional). The entire event is organized by the Russian Boxing Federation, which has undergone some drastic changes over the last couple of years.

As a headliner, Umar Kremlev, a renowned Russian Boxing Federation Secretary General and the EUBC first vice-president, as well as a member of the AIBA Executive Committee, would lead the Global Boxing Fund, which was created on his own initiative. This was announced at a press briefing in Ekaterinburg, Russia, by the World Boxing Organization president Francisco Valcarcel.

“The idea of creating a Global Boxing Fund is beautiful. This is what we can work on. We want to participate and invest in this fund. It is important that transparency is at the forefront so that people can trust us. All decisions must be discussed together with all parties. The main goal of the foundation is to support the future of our kind of sport and its promotion worldwide”, commented Valcarcel.

“I think that Umar Kremlev should become the head of the fund. This is a sign of trust, someone must be a leader. And I think that he will be Umar – this is his idea, he has time for that. He listens to our ideas, unites us”.

“Thank you for your trust”, started Umar Kremlev. “We will make this fund the most transparent. It will support both Olympic and professional boxing. We will all make decisions together, as now we have discussed everything. In the nearest future, we will get together and discuss how to help Olympic boxing. The main thing is our unity”.

“The board of the fund will include all heads of international organizations so that decisions are made jointly. It will also include Olympic champions, boxers from around the world, as well as sponsors who will help in the development of boxing worldwide. The main task of the foundation is transparency to the whole boxing world”.

“The first, of course, will be discussed with the IOC and all the participants in the process so that the foundation takes part in the restoration of the Olympic boxing. We will also take in all the nearest events. We will discuss everything and work out a schedule”, ended Kremlev.

The event itself will be crowned by a huge boxing tournament in the cruiserweight division, which will feature no less than five world-class collisions, involving 200 lbers. The main fight of the night, promoted by German Titov and the RCC is a battle for a vacant WBC Silver belt between WBC #4 Ilunga Makabu and WBC #5 Dmitry Kudryashov.

More on https://www.boxingscene.com/umar-kremlev-set-head-global-boxing-fund–140040

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Tyson Fury came to Las Vegas. He fought. He conquered.

Fury (28-0-1, 20 KOs), the lineal heavyweight world champion, defended his title for the fourth time via second-round TKO over previously undefeated German challenger Tom Schwarz (24-1, 16 KOs) at MGM Grand Garden Arena.

“I came here to put on a show for Las Vegas and I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as i did,” Fury said. “I want to thank everyone for putting on a great show. ESPN was promoting the show every day for four weeks. There was a 2.5-hour documentary on ESPN last night. {Top Rank is} the greatest promotional company in the world.”

Fury, who entered the ring to James Brown’s “Living in America” in homage to Rocky IV, was never threatened by his challenger. A knockdown early in the second was the beginning of the end. Shortly thereafter, Schwarz’s corner threw in the white towel and referee Kenny Bayless stepped in to end the carnage.

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WBO World Champion Krzysztof Glowacki & Mairis Briedis made weight in front of a large crowd ahead of their hotly anticipated WBSS Jr. Heavyweight Semi-Finals and World Championship bouts tomorrow at the Arena Riga in Riga, Latvia.

WBO World Champion, Krzysztof Glowacki (31-1, 19 KOs), Poland, 89,6 kg/ 197.5 lbs:

“I feel perfect,“ said Glowacki. “I hope the fight will be exciting, that’s what the fans expect. It is no issue to fight here and I know there will be a lot of Polish fans.”

WBC Diamond Champion, Mairis Briedis (25-1, 18 KOs), Latvia, 89,9 kg/198.1 lbs:

“I am one hundred percent ready,” said Briedis. “Everyone in this tournament is in great shape and tomorrow we will see great boxing. I am thankful for everyone who showed up today.”

All the action will be live on DAZN in the U.S. and Sky Sports in the U.K.

Photos via World Boxing Super Series

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Boxing Federation of Russia (RBF) secretary general Umar Kremlev has claimed the second edition of the World Boxing Forum in Yekaterinburg will provide impetus for resolving the crisis in the sport at Olympic level.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) decided to suspend the International Boxing Association (AIBA) last month after a report from its Inquiry Committee said the situation at the embattled governing body “is such that its practices and activities continue to fall short of full conformity and compliance with the Olympic Charter and the IOC Code of Ethics”.

The IOC warned that this “presents serious legal, financial and reputational risks to the IOC and the Olympic Movement”.

An IOC taskforce has been set up, chaired by Japan’s International Gymnastics Federation President Morinari Watanabe, to ensure the delivery of a boxing competition at Tokyo 2020.

The group will also be tasked with organising the qualification system.

Speaking prior to the World Boxing Forum, which is scheduled to take place from today through to Sunday (June 16) and will be attended by representatives of the IOC, AIBA Executive Committee member Kremlev said that Olympic boxing is “suffering a lot” but that the unity the RBF is striving to achieve at the event will “help us to move forward”.

“Our task is to make sure that the entire boxing community is united,” he said.

“As for the situation in Olympic boxing, it is now more important than ever to unite and make serious decisions.

“I believe that it is the boxing community that should decide the future of Olympic boxing.

“The Forum will have a lasting purpose, we will take decisions and make proposals.

“Regarding the recommendation of the IOC Executive Board to deny AIBA’s recognition, which was presented at the meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland, I think this is an issue which we can solve together.

“But first, it is necessary to make reforms, to change the structure of the organisation completely before closing the debts.”

Kremlev also insisted the 2019 AIBA Men’s and Women’s World Championships, both of which are due to be hosted by Russia, can remain qualification events for Tokyo 2020.

The men’s event is due to take place in Yekaterinburg from September 7 to 21 while the women’s is scheduled for Ulan-Ude from October 3 to 13.

Kremlev’s claim comes despite the fact qualifying events are set to run between January and May next year.

“We will conduct such work so that the World Championships are qualifying for the Olympic Games,” he was reported as saying by Russia’s official state news agencyTASS.

“This is very important.”

Last month, Kremlev called for the entire leadership at AIBA to be replaced and backtracked on his intention to run for President in a series of proposals he claims will help preserve the future of the organisation.

Kremlev, whose influence appeared to be growing within AIBA until it was suspended by the IOC, revealed he would create a “special fund” to help wipe AIBA’s debt.

He had originally proposed to personally clear AIBA’s arrears, which stand at around CHF17 million (£13 million/$17 million/€15 million).

The lack of due diligence carried out by AIBA on the offer, welcomed by its executive director Tom Virgets but which has not yet been officially ruled on by the Executive Committee, was among several severe concerns outlined by the IOC Inquiry Committee in its report.

Kremlev revealed the offer “still remained in force”, despite the issues raised by the IOC, which questioned its source and also said the proposal, coupled with his intention to run for President, constituted a “major conflict of interest”.

He stated that “people, individuals and legal entities who are not indifferent to boxing will attract funds, including me” and will put money into the fund to eliminate the debt.

The Russian also promised he would seek the involvement of an auditing firm to “report on where the money came from and how each debt was repaid”.

The Forum is to bring together heads and representatives of all major world organizations & leading promotional companies to reach a strategic agreement on the development of boxing. pic.twitter.com/fb4UMzYnMl

Kremlev revealed members of the AIBA Executive Committee would meet in Belarus’ capital Minsk this month to discuss reform of the organisation.

They will gather during the European Games in the city which will run from June 21 to 30.

“At the end of the month, we are planning to hold a meeting with the AIBA Executive Committee members, where we will set up a commission to deal with the concerns and cooperation with the IOC,” Kremlev said.

“Since the current management was unable to solve the issue, we, as members of the AIBA Executive Committee, will take responsibility, unite and solve the problem.

“There are no concerns about debts, everything is possible to achieve, but at the same time, it is necessary to do everything correctly and transparently.

“So that there is no doubt where the money came from.

“It will come from the boxing community, there are a lot of people who want to pay off the debts.

“But it will happen only after we achieve all the goals inside AIBA.”

Kremlev thinks that after the changes and closing of debts, it will be possible to reinstate the status of AIBA because there will be “no reason not to do so”.

“The IOC and the members of the AIBA Executive Committee have the same task – to solve the existing problems,” he added.

“The mistakes were not made by us, and there is only one question – why those who did it, who brought AIBA to such debts, are not held responsible?

“We have to ask them where the money went.

“We don’t have to think about the past, we have to look to the future.”

Organised by the RBF, the World Boxing Forum brings together the heads and representatives of all the sport’s major organisations – the World Boxing Association, the World Boxing Council, the World Boxing Organization (WBO) and the International Boxing Federation.

Representing the WBO is President Francisco Valcárcel, who stated he would like to use the Forum to discuss the unification of rules for all international boxing organisations, bringing the Olympic and professional sides of the sport together under a single body.

“This will help to ensure safety for all participants,” he said.

“We have to find a compromise, it is important for us – this issue is the most critical.

“We have different weight classes and different titles, that is why professionals, for example, cannot compete at the World Championships and Olympic Games.

“Our task is to unite boxing so that it becomes a single body, not only Olympic or professional.

“We want the Olympics to be enriched by boxing as well.”

The World Boxing Forum, which will be attended by the likes of legendary American boxer Roy Jones Jr, will see participants plan to reach strategic agreements on the development of boxing.

In particular, they will discuss the protection of boxers’ health, differences in the rules of international sanctioning bodies, gender equality, the creation of a business platform for promoters and many other strategic issues regarding the development of world boxing.

Russian boxer Egor Mekhontsev, head of the Boxing Federation of the Sverdlovsk region, believes the event brings Russian boxing to a new level of popularity.

“I see how many people are here, how much attention [is being paid] to the Forum – I am very glad that [there is] so much attention to my sport, to which I gave 20 years of my life,” he was reported as saying by TASS.

“Boxing is reaching a new level of popularity, a new level of attention from the world community.”

The inaugural World Boxing Forum was held in Sochi in 2018.

via https://www.insidethegames.biz/index.php/articles/1080566/kremlev-confident-world-boxing-forum-can-act-as-impetus-for-resolving-crisis-in-sport

photo via notifight.com

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Next Wednesday in Japan Kazuto Ioka (23-2, 13) [井岡一翔] and Aston Palicte (25-2-1, 21) will fight for the WBO Jr. Bantamweight title in Chiba. Today, ahead of their bout, the two men went face to face as they both took part in a signing ceremony for the bout.

The event saw both men talk to the press and fans in attendance and, unsurprisingly, both men talked up their chances.

Ioka stated that he had not major impression form Palicte, and had prepared to face him, realizing the Filipino is no push over.

Palicte, on the other hand, praised Ioka as a former champion but added that he had practiced hard, wanted to win and wanted to entertain, whilst coming across as incredibly confident and self assured.
​
​(Image courtesy of boxmob.jp)
via http://www.asianboxing.info/asian-news/ioka-and-palicte-go-face-to-face-at-signing-ceremoney

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Tickets for the blockbuster unification clash between WBO World Jr. Welterweight champion Maurice Hooker and WBC ruler Jose Carlos Ramirez on Saturday July 27 at the College Park Center in Arlington, Texas, go on pre-sale TODAY at 10am (CDT).

Hooker (26-0-3 17 KOs) fights in his Dallas backyard for the first time as a World champion following three fights in enemy territory. Hooker puts his title on the line for the third time after ripping the crown from Terry Flanagan in Manchester, England last June and traveled to Oklahoma City to get off the canvas and stop Alex Saucedo inside seven thrilling rounds in November. ‘Mighty Mo’ met Brooklyn’s Mikkel LesPierre in Verona, New York in March, flooring the unbeaten challenger in the ninth round of a dominant points win.

Jose Ramirez to have his title up for grabs
Ramirez (24-0 16 KOs) also puts his crown on the line for the third time having landed the vacant title at Madison Square Garden in New York in March 2018 against Amir Imam. The 26 year old’s first two defenses were on home soil in Fresno, putting Antonio Orozco on the deck twice in a points win in September and then a tight contest with Jose Zepeda in February where he held onto his title via majority decision.

Tickets start at just $25 and the pre-sale starts at 10am (CDT) from www.utatickets.com

There are five pre-sale ticket codes for the event: MMH, JCR, AMMO, MBUSA and UTA

Tickets then go on general sale at 10am (CDT) on Friday June 14 from www.utatickets.com

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April Adams (11-1-1, 4 KOs) hopes to have her compatriot Crown Princess Mary of Denmark ringside when she challenges Dina Thorslund (13-0, 6 KOs) for the WBO World Jr. Featherweight title on June 22 at the Forum Horsens.

Adams travels to Denmark in an attempt to dethrone the reigning 122 lbs ruler Thorslund, and the Brisbane-boxer, nicknamed ‘Armageddon’, dreams of doing so in front of the Australian-born Crown Princess.

“It would be absolutely amazing if Princess Mary could attend the event. I understand she has many obligations but my team and I would feel very privileged to have her ringside,” said Adams.

“It would be an honour to be able to perform in front of Princess Mary, not only because she is royalty but because she is a fellow Australian.

“Aussies love their sport and I’ve been overwhelmed by the number of people reaching out. It’s comforting to have people and local businesses wanting to help you and want to see you succeed. I’m so thankful for the support I’m receiving so far.

“Bringing the belt home isn’t just about winning a world title. It’s about giving back to all the people that have helped me on this journey: my sponsors, supporters and especially my team. I want to put Australia back on the world boxing stage.”

Thorslund-Adams tops a stacked card at the Forum Horsens, which also features Kem Ljungquist, Kai Robin Havnaa, Frederik Hede Jensen, Landry Kore, Haris Dzindo, Amer Rasinlic, Michael Nielsen and Joanna Ekedahl.

Tickets for Thunder From Down Under: Dina Thorslund vs. April Adams for the WBO Female World Super Bantamweight Championship are available online via www.ticketmaster.dk or by calling (+45) 70 15 65 65.

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In an attempt to become the fastest fighter – male or female – to win three world titles in three different divisions, Flint native Claressa Shields will fight professionally in her hometown for the first time.

The undisputed middleweight world champion faces former world champion Ivana Habazin for the vacant WBO junior middleweight on Saturday, Aug. 17 at Dort Federal Event Center.

“It’s hard to even put into words how excited I am to be returning home as undisputed champion and fighting in front of all my fans in Flint,” said Shields, 24, in a news release. “And having the opportunity to become world champion in a third weight division faster than any man or woman in boxing history will make August 17 a night I will cherish forever. It’s another big step forward in lifting women’s boxing on the road to equality.”

The 24-year-old Shields (9-0, two knockouts) is the first American boxer to win consecutive gold medals in 2012 and 2016.

“The world’s attention will be on women’s’ sports this summer with two of its’ biggest events in the FIFA women’s World Cup, which is just getting started, and another Shields’ blockbuster event happening in August,” said Dmitriy Salita, Shields’ promoter. “We’re continuing our goal of advancing the state of women’s sports to new heights and Claressa’s greatness helps make this happen.”

Habazin, 29, is the No. 1 fighter at 154 pounds. The Zagreb, Croatia, native is 20-3 in her professional career, and will be making her United States debut.

“It’s a dream come true and this is a huge chance for me to prove that I am one of boxing’s elite fighters,” Habazin said in the release. “I will not let this opportunity pass. I’m not just coming to the U.S. to fight, I’m coming for victory.”

The fight will be shown on Showtime, with coverage beginning at 9 p.m.

Article by Greg Levinsky /www.freep.com : glevinsky@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @GregLevinsky.

FULL Article:
https://www.freep.com/story/sports/2019/06/11/claressa-shields-fights-flint/1424484001/

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On June 19th we’ll see Kazuto Ioka (23-2, 13) [井岡一翔] and Aston Palicte (25-2-1, 21) battle for the currently vacant WBO Jr. Bantamweight title in Chiba.

Today, ahead of that bout, Palicte arrived in Japan to acclimatize and put the finishing touches to his preparations. Giving himself just over a week to get used to Japanese conditions.

After arriving at Narita airport today Palicte spent time talking to the Japanese press, who in what was a small press conference at the airport.

The Filipino stated that he was in good condition for the fight, that he was 100% confident he would win and appeared incredibly confident and relaxed. The confidence oozed from the Filipino who predicted a KO win over Ioka and seemed to have no ill effects of jet lag.

via asianboxing.info

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Amanda Serrano surely would have loved a fight this weekend in New York City, but didn’t need one to feel like a winner on Sunday.

The seven-division titlist from Brooklyn by way of Puerto Rico was bestowed several honors during the annual National Puerto Rican Day Parade, which was held Sunday in New York City. In addition to being named Athlete of the Year by parade organizers, she was given a commemorative award by the Guinness Book of World Records for having claimed major titles in more weight divisions than any other female boxer in history.

“I have no words to describe the support I received at the (Guinness Book of World Records booth),” Serrano (36-1-1, 27KOs) said in receiving her official framed certificate. “They surprised me with the Guinness record for being champion in seven divisions and it was something incredible.”

Serrano broke her own record earlier this year, dropping all the way down to super flyweight where she captured a vacant title with a 35-second knockout of Eva Voraberger this past January in New York City. The 30-year old multi-sport southpaw weighed a career low 114.25 pounds for the fight, more than 24 pounds lighter than her previous fight when she became a six-division champ in a super lightweight title win last September.

The fight with Voraberger was the first of a three-bout deal she inked with sports streaming platform DAZN late last year. The final bout under the agreement is supposed to be a superfight with Ireland’s recently crowned undisputed World lightweight champion Katie Taylor later this year, although Serrano is still waiting on her second fight to materialize.

It hasn’t at all dampened her spirits, particularly on a weekend dedicated to celebrating her proud heritage.

“Hard work is rewarded when you least imagine it,” noted Serrano. “I am always motivated to represent my island in all my fights and this is more motivation to keep reaching my goals in all the sports I compete.”

Serrano—also currently active in mixed martial arts franchise Combate Americas as well as Jiu-Jitsu—made history for female boxers and for Puerto Rico, becoming the first from either faction to capture major titles in five weight divisions following an 8th round knockout of Dahiana Santana in their April 2017 bantamweight title fight.

The win pushed her past Miguel Cotto, who is Puerto Rico’s only male boxer to have won titles in four weight divisions. She added to her own mark with a 140-pound title win over Yamila Reynoso last September and her aforementioned knockout of Voraberger earlier this year.

The latter feat taking place in her fifth weight division in as many fights. Over that stretch, Serrano has gone from bantamweight to super bantamweight to featherweight to super lightweight all the way down to super flyweight all in less than two years. Next up could be a featherweight title fight while she waits on official plans to shake out for a blockbuster showdown with Taylor either later this year or in early 2020.

“For Puerto Rico and for women… I want to continue to be an example for women and show that discipline and sacrifice make you great in what you propose in life,” Serrano notes. “Many can do this, but none like me. I am one of one!”

Jake Donovan is a senior writer for BoxingScene.com. Twitter: @JakeNDaBox

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For the third time in his WBO featherweight world title reign, Oscar Valdez turned away the challenge of a previously undefeated fighter. Valdez, a two-time Olympian for his native Mexico, defeated Albuquerque product Jason Sanchez via unanimous decision to defend his world title for the sixth time.

The scores — 118-109 2x and 117-110 — were reflective of the action, but Sanchez, appearing in his first world title contest, made the longtime champion work for the victory.

Valdez (26-0, 20 KOs) knocked down Sanchez with a lead left hook to open the fifth round and played the role of boxer-puncher throughout the evening.

Sanchez (14-1, 7 KOs) was game, but he did not have an answer for Valdez, who has become a less of a brawler and more of a defensive-minded, catch-and-shoot tactician under the guidance of trainer Eddy Reynoso.

“I hope {to fight at featherweight again}. I also have to listen to my body. We’re going to see what’s best,” Valdez said. “Sometimes I get tired in there, and I’m not sure if it’s because of the weight loss. We’ll talk about {my next move} as a team and will do what is best. I want to fight everybody at 126, 130. Let’s do it.”

“Sanchez lacked experience, but he showed tremendous guts. Oscar Valdez fought him back and showed his championship heart,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “We’re going to look for a fight later on in the year between Valdez and Carl Frampton if Frampton is successful in his next fight.”

Photo by Mikey Williams / Top Rank

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Christina Linardatou’s first WBO world title defense was a resounding success.

In the main event of a boxing card in Greece, Linardatou dominated Deanha Hobbs to retain the WBO junior welterweight title with a 10-round decision.

The fight started off with Linardatou picking her spots and throwing big hooks to the body while Hobbs threw lazy jabs and 1-2 combinations in the first few rounds. Linardatou briefly staggered Dobbs late in the second round, but failed to capitalize on the opportunity and drop Dobbs. For almost the entire fight, Dobbs fought off the backfoot, throwing simple combinations but unable to seriously hurt Linardatou.

As the fight progressed, Linardatou continued to throw harder punches as she kept walking Dobbs down. Dobbs did perform better in the second half compared to the first half of the fight, being more aggressive and willing to trade body blows with Linardatou in the center of the ring. Linardatou connected on a solid left hand in the seventh round, but Dobbs responded by pressuring the champion to the ropes and even landed a couple of hooks upstairs. Dobbs had perhaps her best round in the eighth when she landed a straight left that split Linardatou’s guard as well as a right uppercut that connected square on Linardatou’s face.

Linardatou started the ninth round with a flurry of body shots, immediately pushing Dobbs to retreat to the corner, and then connecting with a big left hook upstairs. Linardatou kept the frantic pace up, barely allowing Dobbs to throw anything big to get back in the fight. Linardatou nearly stopped Dobbs late in the round when she connected on another left hook that hurt Dobbs, but the challenger was able to survive the round. Dobbs had one more chance to turn the fight around when she landed a furious combination of punches in the final minute of the fight, but Linardatou was able to shrug off her opponent’s punches.

This was Linardatou’s first fight since winning the world title back in March with a TKO win over Kandi Wyatt. Linardatou dropped Wyatt three times en route to the sixth-round stoppage win in Greece.

WATCH Linardatou Vs. Hobbs in the next video:

VIA CARLOS TORO: https://www.fightful.com/boxing/christina-linardatou-retains-wbo-junior-welterweight-title-decision-win-over-deanha-hobbs

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HOOKER AND RAMIREZ GO HEAD-TO-HEAD IN ARLINGTON

Jr. Welterweight kings set for unification battle on July 27

Maurice Hooker and Jose Ramirez came face-to-face for the first time today at the first press conference for their World Jr. Welterweight unification blockbuster on Saturday July 27 at the College Park Center in Arlington, Texas, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

WBO champ Hooker (26-0-3 17 KOs) and WBC ruler Ramirez (24-0 16 KOs) will headline a huge night of action in Texas, with more World title action to be added along with top Heavyweight fights, and tickets go on pre-sale next Wednesday and general sale next Friday.

PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Maurice Hooker, WBO World Super-Lightweight champion: I want to thank Eddie Hearn, RocNation, Matchroom Boxing USA, DAZN, Jose Ramirez, his team and Top Rank for getting this show done. July 27 is going to be a hell of a fight, you are going to see the best of me, the best of Jose Ramirez, may the best man win.

“I’m training hard and pushing myself, I’m doing this for my family, so let’s do this man – I want to show everyone what I am all about, it’s going to be a hell of a fight and I am not leaving without that WBC belt. Did you bring it? OK, you’ll bring my belt on July 27! It’s a great fight so let’s do it man.”

Jose Ramirez, WBC World Super-Lightweight champion: “I want to thank Bob Arum, Rick Mirigian, Robert Garcia and all the Top Rank family for the opportunity to come to his territory and a different network with Eddie Hearn and DAZN to showcase my skills in my first unification match. Ever since I came out of the London 2012 Olympics my goal was to become a World champion, and after I became a World champion my goal was to become the undisputed champion and I think Maurice Hooker is a big step to make that possible.

“He’s a great champion, I’m very honored to be here and fighting in a different venue in Arlington Texas, I know that there are a lot of fans here that love and support boxing and this is the type of fight that every champion should step up and give to the fans that deserve to see it. I feel Boxing is more alive now than ever and I’m happy I’m here as a World champion and I am going to do everything I can to stay a World champion.

“I am fighting for my family and the right causes, to do something bigger than just box. When I box my goal is to motivate people to fight for themselves, to push themselves and be better, and this is the type of fight that is going to make me better and take my career to a whole different level. It’s a blessing for me to have this fight, I’m thankful to Mo’s team for accepting the fight and stepping up to the plate, I think it’s something that was just us fighters want to prove ourselves, that’s how our promoters were able to work together to provide us with a life-changing opportunity. You will see the best of me on July 27.”

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Boxing USA: This is a huge fight for the 140lbs division, it’s an absolute A-star match up, one both teams wanted for a long time, and after a crazy night on DAZN last Saturday at Madison Square Garden, I believe we have a fight of the year contender here in Arlington on July 27.

“I want to thank Top Rank and their fighter Jose Ramirez. The problem these days in boxing is that there is too much politics with different promoters and different networks, but when two fighters want to fight, generally you have a great chance to make it happen. So, I want to thank Bob Arum and all the Top Rank team for making this incredible fight a reality on DAZN.

“We wouldn’t be working with Mo without the help and support of RocNation Sports and Dino Duva. When we came to America, we were looking to partner up with several people that we trusted and believed in, and the relationship with Matchroom Boxing USA, Mo and RocNation Sports has been fantastic so far. We got off to a slow start really when we lost a purse bid to fight Alex Saucedo. We went to Oklahoma to fight him and it was one of the great, great nights as Mo stopped him to defend his title. He defended it again in Turning Stone but now this really is the defining night of Mo’s career.

“When we went to Oklahoma, I walked into the dressing room and it was just the guys you see on stage. I thought, ‘Oh, it’s not a very big team!’ It was our first fight with Mo and that night showed me that sometimes you don’t need a massive team, you need the right team. The right backing from genuine people that have your best interests at heart. The team lives and breathes Maurice Hooker.

“Behind every great fighter is a great trainer and it’s not just a great match-up in the ring but also out of it, with two great trainers in Vince and Robert Garcia. Robert has long been one of the top trainers in the sport and he knows how difficult this fight is, and he will be putting together a gameplan for his charge. Vince Parra has been so influential in the career development of Mo and it’s a massive night for him too.

“Seeing these guys today and looking in their eyes, this is a fight they wanted and one they are excited by. Mo has a spring in his step, he’s got this monster fight in his hometown. His opponent Jose Ramirez is a hugely popular fighter, I’ve been to some of his shows in Fresno, I want to thank his manager Rick Mirigian who has done a great job in building him locally there. He’s popular, entertaining, technically a great fighter, a puncher and he has plenty of heart. I wanted to bring a fight to Dallas for Mo. I didn’t expect to bring one of this size but what an opportunity for him to become a unified World champion in his backyard.

“This is a real fighter’s fight, one of the fights of 2019 so far. There will be other World title fights on the card and some big Heavyweight fights to be announced. It will be a stacked night of boxing, that’s what we do and that’s what DAZN do.”

Vince Parra, Maurice Hooker’s trainer: “I want to thank Eddie Hearn, DAZN, Matchroom Boxing USA, Top Rank and Jose’s team, but more than anything I want to thank Mo. When I got him, he was a young prospect, I told a reporter he was like a bolt of lightning and I just knew that if we harnessed it and put it in the right way that he could do something special.

“Last year in England he did that, we’ve always taken the hard road, we’ve been the underdog, hitting the road and going all over the US together, living out of hotels and sparring the best fighters we could. He’s always trusted me, and I thank him for that because he’s exceeded even my expectations. I want to compliment JR and his great team, but more than anything these two fighters stepped up. They didn’t hide behind anything, they want to decide who is the best 140lb fighter in the division and they are doing their part, so I applaud them both for that.

“This is a great opportunity for me to match wits with a great trainer like Robert Garcia, and for Mo to match skills with Jose Ramirez. On July 27 there will be a new unified WBO and WBC champion, and it will be Maurice Hooker in his hometown of Dallas.”

Robert Garcia, trainer of Jose Ramirez: “We’re really happy to be here and glad that this fight was able to happen. These are the fights that need to happen and people are missing out on so many fights because of the problems that promoters and TV networks have, but we were able to make this happen and I’m glad because it’s one of the best fights of the year, I can guarantee that. Jose is very motivated and ready to do this, and I am sure Maurice is preparing well too. It’s a hell of a fight and one the fans will remember for many years.”

Dino Duva, RocNation Sports: “I am so happy to see Mo getting this huge fight at home. After he beat Alex Saucedo, he boxed Mikkel LesPierre, two fights in a row on the opponent’s home turf. Eddie and I talked and said we wanted to bring Mo back home, so I want to thank Eddie and DAZN for that.

“Maurice deserves it, he hasn’t fought here for a long time and he certainly deserves it as champion. You couldn’t ask for a better match-up for Mo’s homecoming. Jose Ramirez is a great champion, it’s a unification with a Mexican-American star – you can’t ask for a better fight for this area. Dallas has become a real hotbed for great fights, there’s been huge events here over the last couple of years and this is going to be right up there with the best of them. I really believe this fight could be one of the best that we’ve seen in a long time, the match-up, the style, the background, everything about it leads to a special and historic event.

“To echo what Eddie said, I want to thank Jose, Top Rank, my old friend Robert Garcia, for doing what had to be done to make this fight, for Mo to have his homecoming in as good a match as you could as for. Matchroom Boxing USA and DAZN have done a terrific job with us for Maurice and with boxing in general. If you look at the line-up DAZN has had, you can’t beat it, and now, with this beautiful venue in Arlington, it’s going to be a special night that you don’t want to miss on July 27, I hope that the local fans support the night.”

via matchroomboxing

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Casey “Lady Hawaiian Punch” Morton (8-1-3, 1 KO) of San Francisco, California, will face Miyo Yoshida (12-1) for the vacant WBO Female Jr. Bantamweight title at Makuhari Messe, Chiba City, Japan on June 19, 2019 as part of WBO World title bout between Kazuto Ioka Vs Aston Palicte undercard.

Morton, a decorated amateur, is now looking to make her dream a reality as she seeks her first world title. In her last fight she was victorious against Chie Higano, a fight that took place in the Philippines.

“It is a dream come true to fight for a world title,” said Morton, who is managed by Greg Hannely of Prince Ranch Boxing. “I am very grateful to everyone who has supported me, but I couldn’t have done it without the help of Victor Conte and SNAC System, which has helped my career greatly. I am also thankful for my coach Nonito Donaire Sr., and my manager Greg Hannley. I am excited to show the world my skills on June 19th.”

“Casey Morton is a great body puncher and applies pressure, unlike any female fighter I have ever seen,” said Greg Hannely. “I am glad to work with her and believe that she is a person, who will always find a way to be successful. I know she has it in her to bring home a world title.”

“Fighting in Japan is great,” Morton continued. “I have been fighting in China and the Philippines for the last two years and it has been a wonderful experience. I am so eternally grateful and thankful to have this opportunity in my career.”

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