Jaime Munguia vs. Dennis Hogan Deal is Reached

The World Boxing Organization has announced that a deal was reached for the mandatory fight between WBO junior middleweight champion Jaime Munguia and challenger Dennis Hogan.

Initially, the WBO called for a purse bid – which was scheduled for Monday, March 4th 2019, at 10:00 a.m. ET at the World Boxing Organization’s headquarter offices in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The minimum Purse Bid amount was $200,000.

But the WBO were informed on Wednesday by both parties, that a deal had been reached – and as a result the purse bid was officially canceled.

Earlier this month, the WBO gave both sides 30 days to reach an agreement.

The sides were in talks to potentially place the bout on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Daniel Jacobs card on May 4th at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Munguia (32-0, 26 KOs) fought four times in 2018. He captured the title in May with a demolition of Sadam Ali in four rounds.

He then retained the title with big wins over Liam Smith and Brandon Cook.

Munguia already fought in 2019, when he retained last month and won a tough twelve round unanimous decision over Takeshi Inoue.

He is scheduled to fight again on April 13th at the Arena Monterrey in Mexico. That return was slated to be a voluntary defense before facing Hogan in the fall.

But now it appears that Munguia’s next fight will likely be Hogan.

Hogan (28-1-1, 7 KOs) has won five in a row since losing a twelve round decision to Jack Culcay in December 2015. He saw action twice last year, with two decision wins.

http://scene.com/jaime-munguia-vs-dennis-hogan-deal-reached–136628?print_friendly=1

Roc Nation boxer and WBO junior welterweight champion, Maurice “Mighty Mo” Hooker (25-0, 17 KOs), is preparing to prove he stands among the top fighters in the world ahead of his second title defense on March 9, 2019.

The fight, which is being co-promoted by Matchroom U.S.A. and Roc Nation Sports, will take place at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, NY.

Hooker will take on WBO 14th in the world rated contender Mikkel LesPierre (21-0-1, 10 KOs) of Bronx, N.Y. on the spectacular Matchroom promoted championship competition which will also feature WBA Light Heavyweight Champion, Dmitry Bivol vs. Joseph Smith in the main event.

The bout will air on DAZN Network in the United States and internationally, along with other major networks around the world. The fight is Hooker’s first of 2019 – a year in which he intends to demonstrate his place atop the list of boxing greats.

“I’m itching for this next fight and show everyone that I’m the best junior welterweight fighter in the world with my ultimate goal of being recognized as the best pound for pound fighter. I think it, breath it, eat it, sleep it and I’m ready to prove it. There are a lot of talented boxers out there including Mikkel, but as far as I’m concerned, I’m the best.” said Hooker.

The last time that Hooker was in the ring, he successfully defended his WBO junior welterweight world title by toppling Alex Saucedo (28-1, 18KOs) via a seventh-round TKO.

Although Saucedo did manage to knock the champion down in an early round, Hooker bounced back with a mixture of jab and hook combinations, resulting in a spectacular display and TKO in the seventh round.

The fight, which took place in Oklahoma City at the Chesapeake Energy Arena, was Hooker’s second consecutive win in front of an opponent’s hometown audience.

“First, I want to thank our partner Eddie Hearn and Matchroom for giving Maurice this stage to perform on March 9th. We are so proud of all that Maurice accomplished in 2018, and cannot wait for his continued success moving forward,” said Roc Nation Sports boxing promoter, Dino Duva.

“Maurice’s mission this year is to prove to the world what we already know – that he is the best junior welterweight fighter in the world. His performances in Manchester and Oklahoma City, both in his opponents’ hometowns, were spectacular and we know he will put on an even more exciting show in March and in all his futures matches.”

Hooker’s recent world class performances has gained him notoriety from fans around the globe and impressed many including Matchroom boxing promoter Eddie Hearn.

“For me, right now Maurice is unquestionable the king of the 140 lb. division,” said Hearn.

If Hooker emerges victorious on March 9th, the 29-year-old will be primed for a homecoming fight in his hometown of Dallas, Texas. It would mark Hooker’s first fight in Dallas since he captured the championship belt on June 9, 2018 when he defeated Terry Flanagan via split decision in the opponent’s native city of Manchester, England at the Manchester Arena.

“Fighting Flanagan and Saucedo was just the beginning,” said Hooker. “I’m ready to shock the world and show everyone what I’m really made of. I’m going to bring the fans a fight to remember. By the end of it, everyone will know I’m the best fighter in the world.”

https://www.worldboxingnews.net/2019/02/07/maurice-hooker-fires-warning-rest-140-division/

Photo by Mikey Williams / Top Rank

MANILA, Philippines – The Peñalosa ghting legend continues as its next generation climbs the ring on ESPN5 Saturday February 16 at Midas Hotel & Casino in Metro Manila.

In the televised main event, “The Hunter” Dave Peñalosa (14-0,10 KO’s), son of former 2-division world champion Dodie Boy Peñalosa, risks it all by taking on more-experienced, hard-hitting brawler “Geraldito” Marcos Cárdenas (19-6-1, 15 KO’s) of Sonora, México, for the vacant WBO Oriental Featherweight Belt, and a place in the WBO 126-pound world-rankings.

A tactical southpaw as his old man, Dave faces his toughest opponent yet in the taller Cárdenas, a step up in class that tests the determination, boxing skills and punching power of the promising Filipino fighter whose father and uncle have been two-division champions of the world.

http://fightnewsasia.com/penalosa-faces-cardenas-for-wbo-oriental-casimero-martin-battle-foreign-foes-feb-16-on-espn5-philippines/

Super Saturday is almost here. Three world title fights, including one of the most anticipated rematches in recent memory, will take place Saturday at Ford Center at the Star, the practice home of the Dallas Cowboys. 

At midnight ET on ESPN+, Eleider “Storm” Alvarez will attempt to repeat the deed when he defends his WBO light heavyweight world title against former two-time light heavyweight champion Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev. Back in August, Alvarez came from behind to starch Kovalev with three knockdowns in the seventh round. And, in the ESPN+ co-feature, 2018 Prospect of the Year Teofimo Lopez (11-0, 9 KOs) takes on former world title challenger Diego Magdaleno (31-2, 13 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight fight.

Inthe ESPN main event (10 p.m. ET), Oscar Valdez (24-0, 19 KOs) defends his WBO featherweight title for the fifth time against Carmine “Mr. Wolf” Tommasone (19-0, 5 KOs). In the ESPN co-feature, Richard Commey and Isa Chaniev will duke it out for the vacant IBF lightweight title with the winner set to fight unified champion Vasiliy Lomachenko later this year.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Ford Center at the Star.

Eleider Alvarez

“Things have changed a lot for me. This is my first time being a main event {defending my world title}. What has changed is my popularity, but I’m still the same guy.”

“Thanks to God, I’m a mentally strong person. I have come from the bottom, basically, and little by little, I’ve been getting my stuff. Now I have more, so that’s why I think I’ve been able to handle everything well. That’s why I am a mentally strong person.”

On Kovalev saying he was overtrained for the first fight

“I believe that’s a lot of excuses he’s making. When you lose, you have a lot of excuses. I had a great game plan with my team. If he says that was an accident, then he needs to get ready for another accident.”

Sergey Kovalev

“I want to say a big thanks to Top Rank and my team at Main Events to make this rematch and get my belt back. This is the most important {fight} for me because I couldn’t stop my boxing career as a loser. It’s not in my character. First of all, this is my goal, to get back my belt that I dropped on the way to my big goals. I made a mistake last time {against Alvarez}, but this time I will fix it. This Saturday, I will fix this situation and be on top again. If not, I am not the Sergey ‘Krusher’ Kovalev. Believe me, this Saturday will be the best version of me because I turned everything on to get in the best shape of my boxing career.”

“My goal is to collect all four belts, but I dropped this belt on my way to my huge goal. After {the Alvarez loss}, a lot of people thought I should stop my boxing career. No, that’s not in my character to stop my career by losing. When I win, I will think, stop or not to stop? But when I lose, it was 100 percent no.”

Oscar Valdez

On recovering from the broken jaw suffered in the Scott Quigg fight

“It was one of the most difficult times of my life. Having my jaw wired shut for two months was the hardest thing I’ve ever dealt with. That’s in the past now. I’m ready to focus on this fight. I’m 100 percent healed from that injury. That’s not going to bother me no more. I’m just excited to get back in the ring. It’s been almost a year since my last fight. I’ve been training hard with my new trainer, Eddy Reynoso. It’s been a great training camp, and I just can’t wait to get in there and start again where I left off.”

“We had a great training camp, me and Eddy Reynoso. I never take no fighter lightly. There was a point where no one knew who Manny Pacquiao was when he came to the United States and had his first fight. And he became a star. So, we don’t know what Tommasone can bring. I will be 100 percent ready for him, or for any fighter, because I don’t take no fighter lightly. I have the same respect for all fighters inside the ring, and I’m going to do whatever I have to do come out victorious. One thing in my mind is to not take him lightly and just try to get the job done and keep on improving my career. I’m definitely focused on this fight and start where I left off.”

Eddy Reynoso

“Working with a world champion and an athlete that works as hard as Oscar does is a proud moment for me to be part of that team.”

Carmine Tommasone

“I fought in America as an amateur. This is my first time as a professional. When I got the call {to fight Valdez}, it was like an early Christmas present because it was early December. I prepared well for this opportunity.”

“Winning a title in the United States is every boxer’s dream. It would be a great opportunity.”

On people calling this a “tune-up fight” for Valdez

“It doesn’t bother me. I’m confident in my skills, and this is an opportunity to show my skills.”

WBO light heavyweight world titleholder Eleider Alvarez of Colombia will face Russia’s Sergey Kovalev in a rematch of their August bout on Saturday. The fight will air live on ESPN+ in the United States at midnight ET from the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas.

Alvarez (24-0, 12 KOs) won the title with a knockout victory in Round 7 over Kovalev six months ago. Kovalev (32-3-1, 28 KOs) seemed to be invincible in the division until losing in consecutive fights to Andre Ward in 2016 and 2017. He recovered by winning two fights in a row by TKO before losing to Alvarez in their first bout.

Where can I watch the Alvarez-Kovalev II fight card?

The Alvarez-Kovalev title fight broadcast on ESPN+ will begin at midnight ET on Saturday. The main card also includes ESPN’s prospect of the year, Teofimo Lopez, facing former title contender Diego Magdaleno in a 10-round lightweight bout.

The undercard begins at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN and then moves to ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET for the two exciting world title bouts.W

The undercard on ESPN at 10 p.m. ET includes:

• Oscar Valdez vs. Carmine Tommasone, 12 rounds, for Valdez’s WBO featherweight title
• Richard Commey vs. Isa Chaniev, 12 rounds, for the vacant IBF lightweight title

The undercard on ESPN+ at 7 p.m. ET includes:

• Patrick Day vs. Ismail Iliev, 10 rounds, junior middleweights
• Bakhram Murtazaliev vs. Elvin Ayala, 10 rounds, junior middleweights
• Enriko Gogokhia vs. Vitor Jones Freitas, eight rounds, junior welterweights
• Jason Sanchez vs. Daniel Olea, eight rounds, featherweights
• Janibek Alimkhanuly vs. Steven Martinez, eight rounds, middleweights

Via http://www.espn.com.au/boxing/story/_/id/25841596/eleider-alvarez-versus-sergey-kovalev-espn+-how-watch

The location is SET. #CrawfordKhan WBO Welterweight World Title Bout is going down April 20 at The World’s Most Famous Arena: Madison Square Garden. You don’t want to miss this exclusive Top Rank Boxing on ESPN Pay-Per-View event.

Ticket information coming SOON – stay tuned for more details!

FRISCO, Texas — Three days before Super Saturday kicks off at Ford Center at the Star, four of boxing’s biggest stars — WBO featherweight world champion Oscar Valdez, WBO light heavyweight world champion Eleider Alvarez, 2018 Prospect of the Year Teofimo Lopez, and top lightweight contender Richard Commey — took time out of their fight week schedule to meet with local children at the Frisco Family YMCA.

They discussed the hard work required to become an elite athlete, demonstrated assorted boxing drills, and then signed autographs to close out the afternoon.

Valdez vs. Carmine Tommasone will headline the ESPN/ESPN Deportes world championship doubleheader (10 p.m. ET) that also features the vacant IBF lightweight title fight between Commey and Isa Chaniev.

The action will then turn to the OTT streaming service ESPN+ at 12 a.m., as Lopez versus Diego Magdaleno will serve as the co-feature to boxing’s most anticipated rematch — the WBO light heavyweight world title bout between Alvarez and former division kingpin Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev.

Promoted by Top Rank, Main Events and Krusher Promotions, in association with Groupe Yvon Michel, tickets priced at $225, $165, $85, $55, and $25 (including facility fees) are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com.

7 p.m. – 10 p.m. — ESPN+ — Undercard Fights
10 p.m. – 12 a.m. — ESPN / ESPN Deportes — Oscar Valdez vs. Carmine Tommasone & Richard Commey vs. Isa Chaniev
12 a.m. — ESPN+ — Eleider Alvarez vs. Sergey Kovalev 2 & Teofimo Lopez vs. Diego Magdaleno

Photos by M. Williams / Top Rank

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) announced the officials for two WBO World title bouts to be held this Saturday, February 2 at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. 

WBO World Light Heavyweight Champion Eleider Alvarez rematch versus former world champion Sergey Kovalev will stream live on ESPN+ at 12 a.m. ET, and WBO World Featherweight Champion Oscar Valdez fight against Carmine Tommasone will air live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes beginning at 10 p.m. ET. 

For Alvarez-Kovalev, which will headline the card the referee will be Luis Pabon, from Puerto Rico. 

Levi Martinez (New Mexico), Lisa Giampa (Nevada), and Jesse Reyes (Texas), were appointed judges for the bout. The WBO Supervisor will be WBO President Francisco “Paco” Valcárcel, Esq. 

For Valdez-Tommasone bout, the referee will be Mark Nelson, from the United States.

Javier Alvarez (Richland Hills), Ursulo Perez (San Antonio) and Ellis Johnson (San Antonio), all from Texas, were appointed judges for the bout.

The WBO Supervisor will be WBO Chairman of Officials Michael Pernick. Attached the documents regarding the officials working for both world title fights. 

Photo by Mikey Williams / Top Rank

By Luke Furman –

WBO light heavyweight champion Eleider Alvarez is planning to map out a pure beating in the upcoming rematch with Sergey Kovalev.

Last August in Atlantic City, Alvarez (24-0, 12 KOs) pulled off a shocker when he knocked out Kovalev in to capture the WBO crown.

The two will collide in a rematch on February 2nd, in Frisco, Texas.

Alvarez has been fired up for the rematch, because Kovalev and his handlers have been claiming that Alvarez got saved in the first outing – by way of a “lucky” punch.

“My first motivation is to keep my belt,” said Alvarez to The Montreal Journal.

“The second is to prove to Kovalev that the result of the first fight was not an accident as he’s claimed on social networks since August 4. I’m going to make sure there’s a second accident in our second fight.”

Alvarez is also not paying any attention to the recent headlines, where Kovalev is under legal fire for allegedly striking a woman several months ago.

“There are people who have made me aware of this case, but everything about Kovalev does not interest me. It belongs to him. I act as if I didn’t hear anything about it and I’m only focused on my fight,” Alvarez said.

Alvarez has trained even harder to make a bigger statement this time.

“It was harder than it was for the first fight against Kovalev,” Alvarez admitted.

“I trained even harder. Before I left for Colombia, I was able to make corrections that will be useful to me on Saturday. I feel better in my body. In terms of my physical preparation, I did not have to start from scratch. I still felt the positive effects of my first camp in Bogota.”

https://www.boxingscene.com/eleider-alvarez-plans-batter-sergey-kovalev-rematch–135794?print_friendly=1

La boxeadora mexicana Arely Muciño expondrá el título mosca de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB) el 8 de marzo en Londres, Inglaterra, confiada de volver a casa como campeona cuando enfrente a la local Nicola Adams.

La “Ametralladora”, quien se coronó en febrero pasado ante Monserrat Alarcón y que defendió el título siete meses después con María Salinas, se mostró satisfecha de volver a la actividad y en un compromiso importante y difícil, pero confiada de que seguirá en el trono.

“Regresamos el 8 de marzo, estamos por firmar el contrato con mi promotor Fernando Beltrán, será una prueba difícil, vamos en calidad de campeona e ir a otro país tiene cosas detrás, pero creo que podemos con eso, trato de sacarle provecho a lo que pasa en mi vida y eso será importante”, dijo.

De visita en la Ciudad de México, pues acompaña a Arely Valente, quien peleará el sábado, la regiomontana sabe que será complicado el duelo ante la invicta británica (5-0, 3 KOs), dos veces medallista de oro olímpica.

“Es una peleadora fuerte, la he visto, muy burlona, será una buena pelea, vamos a dejar todo arriba para traernos el cinturón, esperaba con muchas ansias esta pelea, salir del país”, añadió la pugilista, quien solo checará algunas cosas del contrato, pero es un hecho, “es la defensa obligatoria, no hay tanto qué negociar”.

Y aunque le interesaría pelear con pugilistas mexicanas en las 112 libras, donde hay muchas de gran nivel, por ahora solo piensa en volver a casa con el cetro de la OMB en su poder, sin subestimar a Nicola pese a que su experiencia profesional es menor que la de Arely.

“Primero esta pelea, será una experiencia buena para mí, tengo más peleas, ella más experiencia amateur, no vengo a subestimar a nadie, lo estoy tomando con mucha disciplina y conciencia, allá pueden pasar muchas cosas, tienes que ir con la disciplina, fuerza y determinación para traer ese título de regreso”, concluyó.

🏆 HISTORY! 🏆@SerranoSisters gets the first-round KO to win a title in her SEVENTH weight division! 💯 pic.twitter.com/pZSiu43xch

— DAZN USA (@DAZN_USA) January 19, 2019

Serrano made it a quick night of work, stopping Voraberger to grab the WBO title in just 35 seconds.
By Wil Esco

Amanda Serrano said the hardest part of tonight’s fight would be making the weight, and proved as much as she plowed through Eva Voraberger in only 35 seconds of the first round to win the WBO super flyweight title. In winning the title, Serrano won a major world title in her seventh weight class.

Serrano (36-1-1, 27 KOs) started really quickly tonight, opening up on Voraberger with combinations that were landing from the opening bell. Then a sharp left hook to the body from Serrano hit Voraberger on the live, and Voraberger went down. At that point Voraberger just couldn’t get off the canvas to beat the count, ending the fight promptly.

In the post-fight interview Serrano was asked if she wanted to go for a title in an eighth division, but Serrano pumped the brakes on that for a moment, saying she instead wants to defend her newly-won WBO title for the time being. Serrano was also asked about a prospective fight against Katie Taylor, and Serrano simply said when that fight presents herself she just hopes Taylor is ready for her.

https://www.badlefthook.com/2019/1/18/18188965/amanda-serrano-destroys-eva-voraberger-wins-title-in-7th-divisionhttps://www.badlefthook.com/2019/1/18/18188965/amanda-serrano-destroys-eva-voraberger-wins-title-in-7th-division

For 11 rounds, the action happened in fits and starts. Then, in round 12, heavyweight contender Oscar Rivas lowered the boom, knocking out former world title challenger Bryant “B.Y.” Jennings. Rivas knocked down Jennings in the 12th round, then a follow-up flurry pinned Jennings against the ropes and forced referee Gary Rosato to stop the fight.

At the time of the stoppage, the judges’ scorecards were as followed: 106-103 Jennings, 106-103 Rivas, and 105-104 Rivas.

Rivas (26-0, 18 KOs) defended his NABF belt and picked up Jennings’ NABO and IBF International titles in the process. Jennings (24-3, 14 KOs) saw his five-fight winning streak come to an end.

“I worked hard for this fight, and this is the result we were looking for,” Rivas said. “Before the beginning of the last round, my coach reminded me how hard we had worked, and that motivated me to leave everything in the last round. I saw that the combination of a hook and straight right hand was landing, and I kept throwing it until I knocked him down.

“I demonstrated that I’m unbeaten for a reason. Now after this triumph, the boxing world will know my name. This victory puts me closer to being among the elites of the division. I want to write my name in the history of Colombian boxing.

Said Jennings: “It is what it is.”

(Credit: Photos by Ed Mulholland)

A day ahead of three title fights on the Matchroom USA main card, including WBO World Middleweight titlist Demetrius Andrade defending his belt against Artur Akavov, fans gathered at Chase Square at Madison Square Garden for the official weigh-in. All fighters participating in the event on Friday, Jan. 18, were in attendance and tipped the scales at the weights listed below. (photos by Ed Mulholland).

Saturday’s event will be the first live U.S. boxing event on DAZN, with coverage beginning at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. ET and main card starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. ET.

10-round Female Super Flyweight Title Bout @ 115 lbs.

Amanda Serrano – 114.2 lbs.

Eva Voraberger – 114.8 lbs.

http://www.boxingscene.com/photos-serrano-vs-voraberger-doheny-vs-takahashi-weights–135474?print_friendly=1

Amanda Serrano wants her legacy to inspire the next generation of girls to take up boxing as she prepares to challenge for World title honors in a seventh weight class when she faces Eva Voraberger for the Vacant WBO Female Jr. Bantamweight title at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden on Friday night, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

Serrano (35-1-1 26KOs) has already had an immeasurable impact in women’s boxing through winning titles in six divisions on the back of an impressive amateur career, and the Puerto Rican born Brooklyn ace now believes there’s been no better time to be a female boxer.

Serrano’s clash with Voraberger (24-5 11KOs) means that every American-based event on DAZN has featured a women’s World title fight, starting in Chicago where Jessica McCaskill landed the WBC Super-Lightweight title in October, Claressa Shields putting her Super-Middleweight straps on the line in Kansas in November and Lightweight title defenses for Irish sensation Katie Taylor in Boston in October and New York in December.

With the sport in such a great place, Serrano knows that her first pro fight at Madison Square Garden has come at the perfect time and place to both make history and encourage kids to follow her fine example.

“It’ll be amazing to fight at Madison Square Garden,” said Serrano. “I won the 2008 Golden Gloves there so to go back and win a World title in my seventh division in the second home of Miguel Cotto is great, I want it to be my second home like it was for him. I think the fans will come out to support me, I can guarantee that I will do them proud and make history.

“I do want to be an inspiration to young girls in Puerto Rico and America that want to box be inspired by me pushes me to do bigger and better things in my career. I can show them that you can be a powerful Latino female in the sport and achieve any goals and dreams that you have. So I am going to continue to live my life and fight in the right way to show them that dreams can come true.

“Being a female boxer now is much better than it was ten years ago when I started and further back to when my sister started in 2013, the difference in the money is black and white, day and night. The promoters are coming in and giving us exposure and money, paid what we deserved, that’s getting us sponsors coming in and taking chances on us, so this is the time to be a female boxer

“Every now and then I think I’m done with boxing but I’m really happy and committed to boxing. I have a great promoter in Lou DiBella and we’re signed with Matchroom and Eddie Hearn behind me too, it’s a great team behind me, it’s where the money is and the exposure. There’s a new fire been lit under me and we deserve the money that we’re getting.”

Lou DiBella’s DiBella Entertainment and Matchroom Boxing’s Eddie Hearn proudly present Serrano’s clash with Voraberger on a three World title fight bill, topped by Demetrius Andrade’s first defense of his WBO World Middleweight title against Russian Artur Akavov and Irishman TJ Doheny’s maiden defense of his IBF World Super-Bantamweight title against Japan’s Ryohei Takahashi.

www.boxingscene.com/amanda-serrano-things-much-better-now-female-boxers–135423?print_friendly=1

By Jake Donovan –

Demetrius Andrade and Artur Akavov are locked and loaded for DAZN USA’s first offering of the new year.

Both boxers easily made weight ahead of their scheduled 12-round middleweight title clash, which takes place Friday evening at Hulu Theatre in New York City.

Andrade tipped the scales at a fighting fit 159.8 pounds for his first title defense; Akavov came in right at the 160-pound middleweight limit his second title fight opportunity.

The bout will headline a nine-fight card—including three title fights—which will air live on sports streaming service DAZN USA.

For Andrade (26-0, 16KOs), it’s a welcomed interruption to an old schedule where the unbeaten Providence native would experience massive gaps of inactivity in his career. The 2008 U.S. Olympian and two-division titlist now fights for the second time in three months, claiming his 160-pind title in a shutout win over Walter Kautondokwa last October in Boston.

Akavov (19-2, 8KOs) enters the fight having won five straight since a narrow points loss to then-middleweight titlist Billy Joe Saunders in Dec. ’16.

The evening’s chief support was among the show’s latest additions, with TJ Doheny set to make the first defense of his super bantamweight title versus Japan’s Ryohei Takahashi.

Ireland’s Doheny—who traveled to Japan for a 12-round title winning effort over Ryosuke Iwasa—clocked in at 121.75 pounds. Takahashi (22-3-1, 16KOs) weighed 121.8 pounds for his first title fight, which also comes in his U.S. debut.

In the third title fight of the night, history-making Amanda Serrano (35-1-1, 26KOs) moves down an unheard-of SIX weight divisions for her 115-pound vacant title tilt versus Austria’s Eva Voraberger.

Serrano checked in at a chiseled 114.2 pounds, just four months after winning a title at the 140-pound super lightweight division. The win netted her a title in a record-breaking sixth weight division, with a victory on Friday putting her in exclusive company with Manny Pacquiao as the only boxers ever to claim major titles in seven or more weight divisions (Pacquiao has done so in eight).

Voraberger (24-5, 11KOs) hopes to disrupt those plans. The 28-year old also had to move down in weight, dropping one division from bantamweight—where she holds an interim title—to weigh 114.8 pounds for Friday’s tall order.

Two more bouts on the show could very well provide the respective winners with title fights of their own in the very near future.

Former three-division titlist Jorge Linares weighed 139.4 pounds for his second fight at super lightweight, following his title-losing effort to pound-for-pound entrant Vasiliy Lomachenko last May. His opponent, veteran contender Pablo Cesar Cano clocked in at 139.6 pounds for their 12-round bout.

The winner is being teased as a potential future option for unbeaten 140-pound titlist Maurice Hooker. Interestingly the same promise has been made to whomever prevails in a 10-round battle between New Yorkers Chris Algieri and Daniel Gonzalez

Algeiri, a former 140-pound titlist who returned last November filing more than two years away from the ring—weighed 140 pounds. His opponent and longtime sparring partner, Queens’ Gonzalez weighed 139.4 pounds.

FULL WEIGHTS

Demetrius Andrade , lbs. vs. Artur Akavov , lbs.—12 rds, middleweight

Jorge Linares, 139.4 lbs. vs. Pablo Cesar Cano, 139.6 lbs.—12 rds, super lightweight

TJ Doheny, 121.75 lbs. vs. Ryohei Takahashi, 121.8 lbs.—12 rds, super bantamweight

Amanda Serrano, 114.2 lbs. vs. Eva Voraberger, 114.8 lbs.–10 rds, super flyweight

Chris Algieri, 140 lbs. vs. Daniel Gonzalez, 139.4 lbs.—10 rds, super lightweight

Julian Sosa, 147.8 lbs. vs. Dieumerci Nzau, 146 lbs.—6 rds, welterweight

Nkosi Solomon, 227.2 , lbs. vs. Rodriguez Cade, 293.2 lbs.—4 rds, heavyweight

Reshat Mati, 145.4 lbs. vs. Benjamin Borteye, 143.6 lbs.—4 rds, welterweight

http://www.boxingscene.com/weights-from-new-york-city-andrade-1598-akavov-160–135467?print_friendly=1

Middleweight king believes activity will be the key ahead of first defense

Demetrius Andrade believes being active will bring the best out of him as he prepares to defend his WBO World Middleweight title against Artur Akavov at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, New York on Friday night, live on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports in the UK.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM WWW.MSG.COM – TICKETS START AT $46!

Andrade (26-0 16KOs) puts the crown on the line for the first time since claiming the vacant belt in Boston in October, flooring number two ranked Walter Kautondokwa four times en-route to a comprehensive points win.

The Rhode Island ace is back in action against the dangerous Russian Akavov (19-2 8KOs) 90 days after that win – the quickest turn around in fights for the 30 year old since the spring of 2012 and his 16th and 17th fights.

‘Boo Boo’ is thrilled with promoter Eddie Hearn for getting him back into action so soon and feels activity will make him an even better champion in the talent-rich 160lbs division.

“It feels great to be out so soon – it’s the first time that has happened to me for so long,” said Andrade. “It used to be eight months or once a year, so it just goes to show the difference between the levels of promoters that you go with.

“Eddie is keeping me active and he knows that the more active I am the better the fighter I am. Eddie wants to make a statement, show people that the way it’s done in the UK is how it should be done in the US, he’s young and I am too – we have the same hunger, he wants to be the top promoter and I want to be the top fighter. Knowing I can be one of the leading fighters on DAZN and they are doing a great job all around.

“I had the shitty end of the stick for a long time but I can always see the bigger picture. If I look to quit through that, I can’t inspire or motivate others. I’m undefeated, 2008 Olympian, and everyone has their time and obstacles to get over.

“I’m still clearing my path now, everything good in my way stays and everything bad has got to be moved. I’m happy to be back in so fast, I could have had a tune-up fight or even two and not signed up to fight Billy Joe Saunders for the title, but I have been in the game too long and it’s my time to shine now so I am not going to stop.

“I’m not satisfied. I’ve always been at the top but now I’m growing in the top of the mainstream. The boxing world knows I’m the baddest man out there but not having the right promotion behind me putting me out there has hurt me and that’s why I’ve made the changes and Matchroom and DAZN know what I can bring and they can move me to the next level – my job is to win.”

Andrade’s clash with Akavov is part of a huge triple-header of World title action at Madison Square Garden, as TJ Doheny defends his IBF World Super-Bantamweight title against Japan’s Ryohei Takahashi.

A third World title bout on the card sees Amanda Serrano (35-1-1 26KOs) gunning for history as she looks to land World honors in an extraordinary seventh weight class as she meets WBC and IBF World Super-Flyweight champion Eva Voraberger (24-5 11KOs) – the Austrian tasked with stopping Serrano’s bid for glory.

Former World Lightweight ruler Jorge Linares continues his comeback trail on the card when he meets Pablo Cesar Cano. Linares’ (45-4 28KOs) reign as WBA and Ring Magazine champion was ended in an epic clash with pound-for-pound star Vasily Lomachenko at Madison Square Garden in May, with Linares felling the Ukrainian star in the sixth before being stopped four rounds later.

Linares returned to winning ways in September with a third round stoppage win over Abner Cotto in September in California and starts 2019 with his 50th pro fight against Cano (31-7-1 21KOs), the Mexican former World title challenger who landed the WBC International Silver strap in his last outing in September – and Linares is joined by fellow Golden Boy Boxing star Alexis Rocha (12-0 8KOs), the 21 year old Welterweight talent ready to begin his charge for titles in 2019.

Long Island favorite and former World ruler Chris Algieri (22-3 8KOs) steps up his pursuit of regaining his World champion status at Super-Lightweight as he faces fellow New Yorker Danny Gonzalez (17-1-1 7KOs), One of Matchroom Boxing USA’s rising stars tastes his first action in 2019 on the card as Reshat Mati (2-0 1KO) returns to the scene of his last outing in October where the ‘Albanian Bear’ went the four round distance in his second fight.

Tickets for January 18 are on sale now priced from $46 (including booking fee) – tickets are available from www.MSG.com

Jaime Munguia (31-0, 26 KOs) discussed his busy plans for 2019 as he prepares to defend his WBO Junior Middleweight World Title against Japanese contender Takeshi Inoue (13-0-1, 7 KOs) in a 12-round battle. The action will take place on Saturday, Jan. 26 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas and will be streamed live on DAZN – which is just $9.99 per month after a one-month free trial. Fans in Houston can purchase tickets starting at just $25 at ToyotaCenter.com.

The native of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico is working hard to make a successful third defense of his title in what will be his debut in Texas. Munguia is working under the expert tutelage of renowned trainer Robert Alcazar, who trained the likes of Oscar De La Hoya, Edwin Valero and Jessie Vargas. Munguia is training in the Southern California area, where he combines a morning run at the mountains with an intense boxing session at a private gym in the afternoon.

Below is what Jaime Munguia had to say during a recent training session:

“We are preparing very well. I feel better and more motivated than ever before.
I’m stronger than ever, and I will do my best to give the best fights for the people on this new platform, DAZN.”

“I have worked hard to be in the main events like this. I think for me this is just the start. I want to make history. I was happy to be the co-main event of Canelo vs. GGG 2, and now that I’m headlining this event, I am more motivated.”

“Takeshi Inoue is a strong fighter. He comes forward. He doesn’t mind taking a punch in order to land one. We have to be careful with that and come very prepared. We have to be careful with his right hand as well. We’re going to come very well prepared on Jan. 26.”

“After this fight, it looks like I will have a WBO mandatory bout against Dennis Hogan. But I would still like to unify the titles at 154 pounds with the other champions. We will resolve anything that is put in front of us.”

“The plan is to move up to 160 pounds in about a year. We’re fine making weight now. I have no problems, but I feel I can move up and fight in other divisions. My body is such that I could even go up to 168 pounds.”

Munguia on the other fighters in his division:

“I thought the fight was a draw [regarding Jermell Charlo vs. Tony Harrison]. Charlo should have attacked more and not wait as much. That’s my opinion of the fight. Tony Harrison is a good fighter. He’s tough and has good skills. If he is put in front of us-or anyone for that matter-we will have to work.”

“[Jarrett] Hurd is a very big 154-pounder. I think he’s bigger than me. If a fight with him is presented to me, why not? We can unify the tittles or meet at 160 pounds.”

“I don’t know what to say about the political situation because we are on different platforms. We will see if a fight against them can happen. Perhaps not this year, but maybe we can meet them at 160 pounds.

“I’ve heard the things they’ve said about me. Maybe they don’t respect me or think I’m too young. They’ve said a lot. I will make them respect me on the day they step in the ring with me.”

Munguia on a potential fight against Canelo:

“I don’t think there is any pressure with being mentioned with names like Canelo and Golovkin. I like this. It’s fun. I’m happy to be in fights like this and to see that we are advancing. So, the truth is we are happy.

“I am conscious of what I am doing. I think I can move up to 160 pounds and fight any of the two. It’s a risk because there will always be risks. Those are the two best fighters in the world. We would have to be very careful and come very well prepared. I don’t think it would happen soon, so we have to see what the future holds for us.”

Munguia vs. Inoue is a 12-round fight for the WBO Junior Middleweight World Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Zanfer Promotions. Rojas vs. Can is a 12-round fight for the WBA Featherweight World Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Universal Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for Munguia vs. Inoue are on sale now and are priced at $150, $100, $60, $40 and $25 plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges. Tickets can be purchased online at ToyotaCenter.com and by phone at 1-866-4-HOU-TIX. Tickets will also be available at the Toyota Center Box Office.

Media Workout: Oscar Valdez Hit Frisco to Promote Super Saturday Extravaganza

Special ESPN/ESPN+ quadruple-header Feb. 2 at Ford Center at the Star

(Photo Credit: Mikey Williams / Top Rank)

FRISCO, Texas — WBO featherweight champion world champion Oscar Valdez worked out for fans and media Wednesday to promote the Super Saturday quadruple-header, which will take place Saturday, Feb. 2 at Ford Center at the Star in Frisco, Texas.

Valdez vs. Carmine Tommasone will headline the ESPN/ESPN Deportes world championship doubleheader (10 p.m. ET) that also features the IBF lightweight world title fight between Richard Commey and Isa Chaniev.

The action will then turn to the OTT streaming service ESPN+ at 12 a.m., as Lopez versus Diego Magdaleno will serve as the co-feature to boxing’s most anticipated rematch — the WBO light heavyweight world title bout between champion Eleider “Storm” Alvarez and former division kingpin Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev.

From the Tostitos Championship Plaza at Ford Center at The Star, this is what Valdez and Lopez had to say.

Oscar Valdez

On training with Eddy Reynoso

“It’s been great training with Eddy. He’s not only worked on the things I’m good at, but he’s added a new element to my game. I know I can improve my defense while still being the same action fighter that fans are used to seeing.”

On Carmine Tommasone

“He is a tough, undefeated fighter, and I know I have to be 100 percent ready. Camp has gone great, and after a long time off, I can’t wait to fight again.”

On the recovery from the broken jaw suffered versus Scott Quigg

“Everything is great. I took enough time off to make sure my jaw was fully recovered, so when I got back to training, I was 100 percent ready. I can’t wait to show the fans a new Oscar Valdez on Feb. 2.”

Promoted by Top Rank, Main Events and Krusher Promotions, in association with Groupe Yvon Michel, tickets priced at $225, $165, $85, $55, and $25 (including facility fees) are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com.

7 p.m. – 10 p.m. — ESPN+ — Undercard Fights
10 p.m. – 12 a.m. — ESPN / ESPN Deportes — Oscar Valdez vs. Carmine Tommasone & Richard Commey vs. Isa Chaniev
12 a.m. — ESPN+ — Eleider Alvarez vs. Sergey Kovalev 2 & Teofimo Lopez vs. Diego Magdaleno

SHREVEPORT, La. – One of boxing’s most promising rising stars, unbeaten lightweight Devin Haney, and fellow undefeated Xolisani Ndongeni, kicked off fight week with a final press conference Wednesday at Paradise Theatre in Margaritaville Resort Casino ahead of their ShoBox: The New Generation main event bout this Friday, January 11 at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME from StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.

The 20-year old Bay Area native and current Las Vegas resident Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion, headlines the popular prospect-oriented series for the third time when he takes on South Africa’s Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs), an unbeaten 28-year-old who once held the IBO’s belt at 135 pounds.

The event is promoted by Devin Haney Promotions and Bishop Promotions LLC, in association with Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. Tickets, starting at $30, are on sale now and available at www.akafights.com.

In the ShoBox co-feature, featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) will take on Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young heavyweights Frank Sanchez Faure (10-0, 8 KOs) and Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2 KOs) squaring off in another eight-round bout.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say:

DEVIN HANEY
“After this fight I want the whole world to know I’m no longer a prospect. I’m a contender.

“I feel I have something to prove. I’m not just going for the win on Friday night, I want to make a statement. I want to look good. I want to show the world what I’m capable of.

“I think that with a win against a fighter like Ndongeni, the sky is the limit. This fight is going to take me to the next level.”

Xolisani Ndongeni
“Come Friday night, it’s going to be show time. Because, with all due respect, I’m no pushover and I didn’t come here to lose.

“I’ve been in the game for a long time. I have fought many styles and I’ve seen it all. I’m not scared.

“We are not looking for anything less than a win. I’m not leaving here without one.”

Demetrius Andrade has vowed to dominate the Middleweight division in 2019 – starting with the first defense of his WBO World title against Artur Akavov on Friday January 18 at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, New York, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM WWW.MSG.COM – TICKETS START AT $46!

Andrade (26-0 16KOs) puts his WBO 160lb crown on the line for the first time against the Russian in New York, and the two-weight World ruler is eager to kick off 2019 with a bang having returned to the ring in style in 2018.

The Rhode Island star picked up the WBO crown with a commanding win over Walter Kautondokwa in Boston in October, flooring the undefeated African dangerman four times in the opening four rounds in his first fight in a year and his first title bout at 160lbs.

Andrade steps straight back into action and face-to-face with the ‘Wolverine’ Akavov (19-2 8KOs), who fights for the strap for the second time having ran previous incumbent Billy Joe Saunders close for the belt December 2016 in Glasgow.

‘Boo Boo’ knows that Akavov will put it all on the line in the Big Apple, but the champion wants to lay down a marker as the first of the Middleweight World champions to fight in 2019 – and he plans to prove that he will emerge as the top dog in a talent-heavy division with Canelo Alvarez, Daniel Jacobs, Gennady Golovkin, Jermall Charlo and Saunders amongst the huge names there for big fights.

“I’m out there trying to fight the undefeated guys, the champions, that’s what I want,” said Andrade. “I get in there with anyone at 160lbs – and I beat them all. It’s the time for the elite to fight each in 2019, people want to see me fight the big names and I want them.

“It’s going to happen, I am here, I’ve got the World title and I want the best. Akavov is coming to New York to take that title from me so I know that I have to be on my game as he’s a dangerous man, but trust me, when I shine on January 18, we’re going for all the big names next.

“My first fight was meant to be Saunders – an undefeated champion – and then I beat another undefeated fighter to win the title. That’s what I am about and that’s what I want my year to be, champion vs. champion, Demetrius Andrade vs. the best out there.”

Andrade clashes with Akavov on a huge night of action in New York, with a second World title bout on the card sees Amanda Serrano (35-1-1 26KOs) gunning for history as she looks to land World honors in an extraordinary seventh weight class as she meets WBC and IBF World Super-Flyweight champion Eva Voraberger (24-5 11KOs) – the Austrian tasked with stopping Serrano’s bid for glory.

Oscar Valdez-Carmine Tommasone WBO Featherweight world title bout to air live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes beginning at 10 p.m. ET at the Ford Center at the Star, Frisco.

On February 2nd Oscar Valdez will make the fifth defense of his WBO Featherweight title against the unbeaten Carmine “Mr. Wolf” Tommasone. Valdez will be making his first ring appearance since suffering a severely broken jaw in a March 10 unanimous decision win against an overweight Scott Quigg.

Valdez (24-0, 19 KOs) made his name as one of the sport’s foremost action stars with a trio of 12-round wars against Miguel Marriaga, Genesis Servania and Quigg. The Quigg fight was shrouded in controversy as the Englishman missed the featherweight limit by nearly three pounds and refused a day-of weight check. Valdez fought with a broken jaw against Quigg for more than half the fight and still managed to prevail via clear unanimous decision. Valdez, whose jaw was wired shut for two months after the bout, is ready to move on and prove that the injury was nothing more than a speed bump.

“It will be great to see our little warrior, Oscar Valdez, back in action on Feb. 2 after his full recovery from a broken jaw and a courageous victory over Quigg,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Oscar always brings thrills and excitement to his fights.”

“The fans can expect the same Oscar Valdez as far as being an aggressive and exciting fighter,” Valdez said. “They are also going to see a different side that nobody has seen, which is the boxing skills that I also have and that I’m perfecting and learning with my new trainer, Eddy Reynoso.”

Tommasone (19-0, 5 KOs), an eight-year pro from Avellino, Campania, Italy, is a former Italian, European and WBA Intercontinental champion who will be making his first ring appearance outside of his home country. He captured the vacant European crown on Sept. 26, 2015 with a wide unanimous decision win against Jon Slowey. Tommasone made history at the 2016 Rio Olympics as the first professional to take part in an Olympic boxing match. One of three pros to participate at the 2016 Olympics, Tommasone won his opening bout before losing to the eventual bronze medalist, Cuba’s Lazaro Alvarez.

Photo by Mikey Williams / Top Rank

Officials for Nietes-Ioka WBO Title Fight

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) headquartered in the Island of Enchantment, Puerto Rico, has assigned Las Vegas Hall of Fame referee Robert Byrd, 75, as the third man in the coming clash for the vacant WBO Jr. Bantamweight title between world-class Filipino fighter Donnie ” AHAS ” Nietes, 36, and Japanese star Kazuto Ioka, 29, an intriguing battle between two 3-division world champions set for New Year’s Eve at the plush Wynn Palace Cotai in the startling “Las Vegas of Asia,” Macao.

Inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 2006, Robert Byrd was the third man in last year’s blockbuster tiff between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Conor McGregor.

Incidentally, on fight day, December 31, the experienced Robert Byrd will be celebrating his 76th birthday. Advance Happy Birthday, Sir.

It will be the fourth time that the WBO assigns Byrd as a referee in a Donnie Nietes (41-1-5, 23 KO’s) world title fight. In 2011, he was the third man in Nietes-Garcia Hirales in Bacolod; and in 2014, Byrd worked again as the referee in Nietes-Fuentes II and also in the Nietes-Velarde rumble.

However, it will be the first time that the well-known Byrd works in a fight of Kazuto Ioka (23-1, 13 KO’s), one of the most popular boxers in Japan today.

In addition to being the third man for the Donnie Nietes-Kazuto Ioka clash, Robert Byrd will also work as the referee in the fight of Hong Kong rising-star Raymond Poon Kai Ching (6-1, 3 KO’s) as the hard-hitting 22 year-old 108-pounder battle for the vacant WBC ABCO Light Flyweight title.

Finally, the fight supervisor for the Donnie Nietes vs Kazuto Ioka rumble will be WBO Vice President Leon P. Panoncillo Jr., of Hawaii; while the ringside judges will be: Levi Martinez of New Mexico, Patricia Morse Jarman of Las Vegas and Samuel Nieto of Panama.

By Carlos Costa / PhilBoxing.com

NEW YORK – Jamie Munguia has joined Golden Boy Promotions and DAZN.

Promoter Oscar De La Hoya announced early Sunday morning that Mexico’s Munguia has entered a co-promotional agreement between his company and Zanfer Promotions. Zanfer has worked with the 22-year-old Munguia throughout his five-year pro career.

Munguia will make his Golden Boy/DAZN debut January 26 at Toyota Center in Houston. He’ll headline a card that night against Japan’s Takeshi Inoue, who’ll challenge Munguia for his WBO junior middleweight title.

The 29-year-old Inoue (13-0-1, 7 KOs), while unbeaten, is untested against top opposition.

“We’re happy to announce that we signed a multi-fight deal with Munguia and Zanfer Promotions,” De La Hoya said during the Canelo Alvarez-Rocky Fielding post-fight press conference at Madison Square Garden. “So we wanna thank our partners, Zanfer Promotions.”

For Munguia (31-0, 26 KOs), this Golden Boy/DAZN deal helps keep him in position to land a shot at Alvarez (51-1-2, 35 KOs), who knocked out England’s Fielding (27-2, 15 KOs) in the third round Saturday night. The Tijuana native would have to move up from 154 pounds to 160 to secure that high-profile opportunity, but he is more than willing to do that.

“Too early now,” De La Hoya said regarding Munguia possibly boxing Alvarez. “He’s obviously fighting at 154. As you see, Canelo’s fighting at 160 or 168. But yes, you’re right, Munguia is a monster.”

Munguia emerged as a potential star when he overwhelmed Sadam Ali in their WBO 154-pound championship match May 12. A late replacement for an ill Liam Smith, the hard-hitting, rugged Munguia knocked down Brooklyn’s Ali four times on his way to a fourth-round technical knockout victory at Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, New York.

Munguia has since defended his title against England’s Smith (26-2-1, 14 KOs), a former WBO champion who then was the mandatory challenger for Munguia’s championship. Munguia dropped Smith in the sixth round and beat him by unanimous decision in their 12-rounder July 21 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

A motivated Munguia returned less than two months later to demolish Brandon Cook on the Alvarez-Gennady Golovkin undercard. Munguia stopped Canada’s Cook (20-2, 13 KOs) in the third round September 15 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Photo by HBO Boxing

By Keith Idec, senior writer/columnist for BoxingScene.com. He can be reached on Twitter @Idecboxing. 

https://www.boxingscene.com/munguia-signs-with-golden-boy-dazn-fight-inoue-126–134680

Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez is seeking a fifth successful title defense. Jesse “Hollywood” Hart is out for revenge.

Ramirez (38-0, 25 KOs) will defend his WBO super middleweight world title against Hart (25-1, 21 KOs) this Friday at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas, site of his February knockout of Habib Ahmed. Ramirez bested Hart via unanimous decision last September in one of the finest world championship fights of 2017.

The entire undercard will stream live on ESPN+ beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zapari Boxing Promotions, tickets to the Ramirez-Hart 2 world championship event are on sale now. Priced at $100, $65, $45, and $30, tickets may be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com, at the American Bank Center Box Office, Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST, or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

Hart and Ramirez worked out for the media Tuesday at Corpus Christi Boxing Club. This is what they had to say.

Gilberto Ramirez

“I’m coming to Corpus Christi to give the fans a great fight. I have very good memories of the last time I fought here. They treated me well. I felt right at home, and that’s why I asked to fight here again. I will not let them down. I will close the year the same way I started it, with a knockout win in Corpus Christi!”

“I don’t take this fight as a rematch. The first one was a good fight, but I beat him clearly. For this fight, I’m coming better prepared mentally and physically. I’m focused on taking care of business and winning convincingly.”

Jesse Hart

“Camp was great. It was real tough because I did things l never did before. I chopped wood for the first time. I climbed rope. Going into camp this time, I was in tremendous shape. I didn’t take any time off after my last fight. I knew the rematch was looming, so I stayed hungry and ready to go. After I win this title, I’m definitely going to take a vacation and spend time with my daughter and my family.”

“Right after the decision, I wanted to fight Gilberto again. When you look at all of his opponents, I was his only opponent that came close to beating him. He’s fought a lot of credible guys, but no one came as close as me.”

“I’ve never been more ready for a fight in my life. Gilberto Ramirez is going to see a different fighter this time around. All I can do is keep honing my craft and get better.”

Source Boxingnews24.com