In the long-awaited battle between undefeated rising junior featherweight stars, WBO 122-pound World Champion Angelo Leo meets Stephen “Cool Boy” Fulton Jr., in the main event of the first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast of 2021 Saturday, January 23 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The co-main event pits two more undefeated 122-pound boxers against each other as Ra’eese Aleem and Victor Pasillas face off in a 12-round bout for the interim WBA title. The telecast opener features rising prospect Rolando Romero against Justin Pauldo in a 12-round lightweight bout for Romero’s interim WBA title. The six fighters’ combined ring record on the card is a remarkable 96 wins with just one loss.

Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions promote the event.

“We’re rolling straight into 2021, ready to keep creating as many opportunities as we can for our fighters,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Angelo Leo and Rolando Romero will both be defending their titles for the first time and will be put to yet another test in their respective bouts. Everyone has been working hard and fine-tuning in preparation for January 23, and it’s going to be another great night of boxing filled with inspiring talent to kick off the new year.”

“Leo vs. Fulton is a true 50-50 matchup between two rising stars entering the primes of their careers,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Fulton’s chance at capturing the title was delayed, but his opportunity finally comes January 23 on SHOWTIME. Leo worked incredibly hard to capture the world championship in August and will come prepared and determined to defend it successfully.

“The super bantamweight division will have a clear world title contender emerge from the co-main event, a battle of unbeatens between Aleem and Pasillas. Add in the opening bout of ‘Rolly’ Romero vs. Justin Pauldo, a fight that can launch a prospect into a contender, and we have an excellent fight card to kick off the year.”

Leo (20-0, 9 KOs), who fights out of the Mayweather Promotions stable, became the first world champion from his hometown of Albuquerque, N.M., since legendary three-division champion Johnny Tapia when he defeated Tramaine Williams by unanimous decision in August. The 26-year-old was originally scheduled to face Fulton for the vacant WBO junior featherweight world title that evening in the first SHOWTIME boxing event following the sport’s pandemic shutdown. Still, Fulton was forced to withdraw following a positive COVID-19 test.

“It’s been a crazy year for everyone, but to say I walked out of 2020 a world champion is truly incredible and humbling,” said Leo. “I spent 16 years training for that moment to become a champion, and here I am, preparing for my next camp for my first defense top of 2021. That’s a blessing, and I thank Mayweather Promotions and my team for that. My experiences with Floyd’s last camp would really put me in a great position going into this fight.

“My father Miguel has been instrumental in keeping me grounded and reminding me that all of these fighters are eyeing my spot. My goal in 2021 is to remain champion and get more belts, and Fulton is that next test.”

Born and raised in West Philadelphia, Pa., Fulton (18-0, 8 KOs) has faced impressive competition in his young career while rising to the 122-pound ranks, where he is currently rated No. 1 by the WBO. In his last 12 professional fights, the 26-year-old has beaten seven unbeaten fighters, including Josh Greer, Adam Lopez, and Luis Saul Rosario. Fulton’s two most recent wins are a knockout over Isaac Avelar in August 2019 before most recently scoring a dominant 12-round unanimous decision victory over Arnold Khegai in January.

“Training is going great,” said Fulton. “I feel like everything happens for a reason because I’m 10 times more ready now than I was the first time around. I’m excited to fight for the title, and I expect nothing but Angelo Leo to be himself and fight his fight on January 23.”

Ranked in the top-10 by the WBA and IBF at 122 pounds, Aleem (17-0, 11 KOs) can take a big step closer to a world title shot when he faces fellow unbeaten Pasillas for the interim WBA strap on January 23. Raised in Michigan and training out of Las Vegas, Nev., Aleem, 30, has stopped his past six opponents inside the distance as he continues to step up his competition.

“This is a high-stakes fight, and the winner will get a guaranteed world title fight,” said Aleem. “It’s going to be a good fight, but I am at the top of the heap. I knew I belonged at the top a long time ago, and after my last fight, that was proven. Winning this fight makes me the number-one contender, and the only thing left after this is to win the world title.”

Pasillas (15-0, 8 KOs), who hails from East Los Angeles, is fresh off a dominating sixth-round knockout over then-unbeaten Ranfis Javier Encarnacion September 2020, which launched him into the WBA’s top-10 rankings. Like Aleem, the 28-year-old Pasillas also carries significant power. He has stopped his four most recent foes, including a first-round knockout of Ernesto Guerrero.

“I’ve envisioned being in this position since I first stepped into a boxing gym at age eight, and now it’s time to seize the moment,” said Pasillas. “I’m going to take full advantage of this opportunity and show the world, and everyone watching on SHOWTIME, that I belong on the big stage with the elite fighters at super bantamweight. Aleem is a good fighter, but he won’t be able to hang with me. I’m going to punish him until I knock him out. East L.A. in the house, let’s go!”

Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nev., Romero (12-0, 10 KOs) returns to SHOWTIME following his controversial unanimous decision victory over Jackson Marinez in August. The 25-year-old captured the interim WBA lightweight title with that win and went the distance for just the second time in his professional career. Fighting under the Mayweather Promotions banner, Romero has been matched tough early in his career with just two losses among his four most recent opponents, including the once-defeated Pauldo.

“I’m going to approach this fight like I do any other fight; I don’t feel the need to sell myself,” said Romero. “I’m thankful for my fans who have been with me since day one. I fight for them because a fan of Rolly is to be an underdog, to be doubted, and that’s all I have ever been. Whether you’re with me on January 23 or against me, I know you will be watching.”

Following an impressive unanimous decision victory over a tough Josec Ruiz in August 2020, Pauldo (14-1, 7 KOs) returns against his career’s stiffest test when he faces the blue-chip prospect, Romero. Hailing from Orlando, Fla., and training in Houston, Texas, Pauldo, 26, owns a four-inch reach advantage over Romero, who is the third unbeaten foe of his career.

“I’m thankful for this opportunity, and I’m excited for all of my years of hard work to pay off on January 23,” said Pauldo. “I was already training and in shape when I got the call for this fight, so I’m going to be 100% on fight night. Romero is a one-gear type of fighter who comes straight forward. I believe that I have better skills and am a better all-around fighter. This is definitely going to be an interesting fight with contrasting styles, and I can’t wait to show off my skills and bring this title home.”

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Kazuto Ioka has retained his WBO Junior Bantamweight title in an absolute war with Kosei Tanaka in the final title fight of the year.

The pair slugged it out but the 31-year-old Ioka showed just why he is the champ having won in an eighth round TKO as he knocked Tanaka out on his feet.

Tanaka had been knocked down twice before in the fifth and sixth round but a massive left hook left the challenger in la la land as Ioka defended his title for the second time.

Both men came into the fight as world title winners at multiple weights with the 25-year-old Tanaka fighting to become the fastest fighter to win four weight divisions have held the WBO mini-flyweight title from 2015 to 2016, the WBO junior-flyweight title from 2016 to 2017 and the WBO flyweight title.

Incredibly, he still has seven more fights to beat Oscar de la Hoya’s record but his 15-0 record now has its first loss.

Tanaka was a massive favorite in the fight but despite both men copping punishment, it was Ioka who withstood best, with three brutal knockdowns from left hooks giving him the belt.

Ioka for the knockout was at 6-1 odds according to Fox boxing reporter Mike Ortega which was stunning for the defending champ.

Ioka has trod the ground ahead of Tanaka, having won the mini-flyweight, light-flyweight, flyweight and super flyweight titles.

It appeared an even fight to start off with both men dishing out punishment, but late in the fifth, Ioka hit Tanaka with a right before coming over the top with what the commentator called “a picture perfect” left hook that floored the challenger.

In the sixth, another left hook left Tanaka on the canvas again as he went looking for the KO as Ioka smelled blood.

With his back against the wall, Tanaka came out swinging to finish the round.

He swung until the end with Ioka waiting for the right time before his left knock Tanaka out only to be caught by the referee.

By Andrew McMurtry, news.com.au

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The UK and Latin America have easy access, while American viewers will need to pay a few bucks extra.

2020’s last big fight also figures to be one of its best. This Thursday morning at 4:00 AM Eastern, 25-year-old Kosei Tanaka attempts to become a WBO four-division champion against countryman and current WBO Jr. Bantamweight World Champion Kazuto Ioka, who became the first male Japanese boxer to achieve the feat last year. The bout airs live on Japanese channel TBS, but luckily for us gaijin, there are a few ways to tune in.

USA: Unfortunately, no American network or streaming service has acquired broadcast rights at the time of writing. That doesn’t mean piracy is the only option, though: Asian Boxing has a guide on how to subscribe to iSakura, which allows access to TBS and other local channels. Conveniently, iSakura offers a three-day trial, which you don’t have to manually cancel afterwards, for $2.50. Just be sure to order by the end of the day; going by the website, it can take a while to process your payment.

UK: BoxNation has you covered.

Latin America: ESPN KnockOut provided a handy country-by-country breakdown.

By Patrick L. Stumberg / BadLeftHook.com

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After weeks talks and murmurs news broke today that UK specialist boxing channel Boxnation, along with Premier Sports, would be airing the WBO Junior Bantamweight world title bout between defending champion Kazuto Ioka (25-2, 14) [井岡一翔] and unbeaten challenger Kosei Tanaka (15-0, 9) [田中恒成].

The bout, which will be aired live from Tokyo, will have English language commentary provided by the fantastic Corey Erdman.

For US fans there is still no confirmed TV deal, but for British fans this gives them an English language option to go alongside the Japanese option given by TBS.

via AsianBoxing.info

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The WBO 122-pound title will be on the line in Showtime’s first “Championship Boxing” of 2021.

By Michael Woods /badlefthook.com

During Showtime’s final event of 2020 on Saturday night, the first Showtime Championship Boxing attraction for 2021 was announced, with Angelo Leo set to defend his WBO 122-pound title against Stephen Fulton Jr in the main event.

The event, which features six fighters with a combined record of 97-1, will be held Saturday, Jan. 23 at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn., days after the previously announced ShoBox event on Wednesday, Jan. 20.

Leo (20-0, 9 KO) captured the then-vacant WBO trinket in August when the two unbeaten 26-year-olds were originally set to meet, but Fulton was a COVID scratch. New Mexico’s Leo instead took on Tramaine Williams and won a clear decision over 12 rounds.

Fulton (18-0, 8 KO) was confident he was going to beat Leo in August, and now has the opportunity to claim the belt he wanted months ago.

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WLADIMIR KLITSCHKO, FLOYD MAYWEATHER, ANDRE WARD, LAILA ALI, ANN WOLFE, MARIAN TRIMIAR & DR. MARGARET GOODMAN ELECTED TO INT’L BOXING HALL OF FAME

The International Boxing Hall of Fame and Museum announced today the members of the Class of 2021. Living inductees include champions Wladimir Klitschko, Floyd Mayweather and Andre Ward in the men’s Modern category; Laila Ali and Ann Wolfe in the women’s Modern category; Marian Trimiar in the women’s Trailblazer category and Dr. Margaret Goodman in the Non-Participant category.

Posthumous inductees are: featherweight champion “The Springfield Rifle” Davey Moore in the Old Timer category; Jackie Tonawanda in the women’s Trailblazer category; cut man Freddie Brown and manager / trainer Jackie McCoy in the Non-Participant category; journalist George Kimball and television executive Jay Larkin in the Observer category. Inductees were voted in by members of the Boxing Writers Association and a panel of international boxing historians. Biographies on the Class of 2021 can be found on www.ibhof.com

“We’re extremely excited about the Class of 2021 and are very much looking forward to honoring the newest class of inductees to earn boxing’s highest honor,” said Executive Director Edward Brophy.

As previously announced, the Class of 2020 – Bernard Hopkins, Juan Manuel Marquez, Shane Mosley, Christy Martin, Lucia Rijker, Barbara Buttrick, Frank Erne, Paddy Ryan, Lou DiBella, Kathy Duva, Dan Goossen, Bernard Fernandez and Thomas Hauser – will be honored with the Class of 2021 following the postponement of the 2020 Induction Weekend.

The 2021 Hall of Fame Induction Weekend is scheduled for June 10-13 in Canastota, NY. Many events in “Boxing’s Hometown” of Canastota throughout the four-day celebration, including a 5K Race / Fun Run, golf tournament, boxing autograph card show, VIP Cocktail Reception, Parade of Champions and the Official Induction Ceremony on the Hall of Fame Museum Grounds, are scheduled. The Hall of Fame Weekend evening events include Friday night’s Fight Night at Turning Stone and Saturday’s Banquet of Champions. Both events will take place at Turning Stone Resort Casino in nearby Verona, NY.

For more information on events planned for the 2021 Induction Weekend please call (315) 697-7095, visit online at www.ibhof.com, on Facebook Twitter and Instagram.

COMMENTS UPON RECEIVING INDUCTION NEWS
“Thank you for the great news. It is an honor to be a Hall of Famer. I’m so impressed with the dedication and passion the Village of Canastota has for boxing. All of the champions feel so honored and blessed to be in the Hall of Fame. It’s amazing.”

– Wladimir Klitschko

“It is a great honor for me to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame as a first-ballot nominee and a member of the 2021 class. Throughout my career, I gave everything I could to the sport of boxing, and now, to be recognized by one of the most prestigious honors in the sport for that hard work and dedication is very humbling. I am looking forward to attending the Hall of Fame Induction Weekend in June and being honored alongside the other members of the class of 2021 too.”

– Floyd Mayweather

“I’ve been waiting for this call for most of my life. It finally came. I’m a first ballot Hall of Famer. God has been good to me. I can finally rest now. This chapter of my life is complete.”

– Andre Ward

“It truly is an honor to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, CANASTOTA, Class of 2021. Being that my father was also inducted many years ago, makes this honor extra special to me. I learned so much inside the ring that I have applied to every area of my life outside of the ring. Boxing will forever be my first love…and knowing that I will be on the Hall of Fame Wall, inspiring others who come behind me for years to come, is a blessing that I will never take for granted.”

– Laila Ali

“I got goosebumps. I don’t think a lot of people understand what I did. I came off the streets, trained with the best and boxing saved my life. This makes all the work I did worth it. This means completion. I completed what I set out to do in life and in boxing. In boxing a lot of people have to live life first. I lived boxing first and boxing helped me through life. I would not be where I am in life if it wasn’t for boxing and this just puts the icing on the cake.”

– Ann Wolfe

“Wow! This is really an honor. I appreciate the recognition very much. This is exciting news.”

– Marian Trimiar

“This means everything. I can’t tell you how much I love boxing. I’ve always loved boxing and I love the fighters and it’s all about the fighters. The fact that I’m recognized in this way means so much because it means alot for the healthcare of the fighters, the safety of the sport and promoting improvements to the sport to make it better for everyone involved. It’s the best honor I could even imagine.”

– Dr. Margaret Goodman

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Trailing big on the scorecards, Masayoshi Nakatani came from behind and earned the most significant win of his career.

Nakatani (19-1, 13 KOs) scored a pair of knockdowns in the ninth round to stop Puerto Rican star Felix Verdejo in the ninth round of a scheduled 10-round lightweight bout. Knocked down in the first and fourth rounds, Nakatani, in his first bout since a decision loss to Teofimo Lopez in July 2019, stormed back with a pair of knockdowns in the ninth to clinch the shocking stoppage.

Verdejo (27-2, 17 KOs) saw his four-bout winning streak come to an end, and at the time of the stoppage, he was leading on all three scorecards (78-72 2x and 77-74).

After the bout, a jubilant Nakatani set his sights on a rematch with Lopez, now the undisputed lightweight world champion.

“I fought Lopez, and I wanted to fight him again, and that’s why I kept going,” Nakatani said. “I want to go for the knockout like I did today, and that’s going to be my style.”

Photo by M.Williams / Top Rank

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JOSHUA VS. PULEV WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER
17:10 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS FACEBOOK

8 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight contest
QAIS ASHFAQ 8st 12lbs 4oz v ASHLEY LANE 8st 10lbs 6oz

followed by

18:00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS BOX OFFICE

8 x 3 mins International Welterweight contest
FLORIAN MARKU 10st 6lbs 15oz v JAMIE STEWART 10st 5lbs 14oz

followed by

10 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight contest
KIERON CONWAY 11st 5lbs 10oz v MACAULAY MCGOWAN 11st 4lbs 7oz

followed by

10 x 3 mins vacant WBC International Heavyweight Title
MARTIN BAKOLE 17st 13lbs 6oz v SERGEY KUZMIN 18st 6lbs 7oz

followed by

10 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest
HUGHIE FURY 17st 9lbs 5oz v MARIUSZ WACH 19st 8lbs 6oz

followed by

12 x 3 mins vacant WBO International Jr. Heavyweight Title

LAWRENCE OKOLIE 14st 3lbs 13oz v NIKODEM JEZEWSKI 14st 3lbs 11oz

followed by

12 x 3 mins UNIFIED WBO Heavyweight World Championship
ANTHONY JOSHUA 17st 2lbs 13oz v KUBRAT PULEV 17st 1lbs 11oz

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Unified WBO Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua (23-1, 21 KOs) vs. Kubrat Pulev (28-1, 14 KOs) tops a huge night of action in London promoted by Matchroom Boxing in association with Top Rank and Epic Sports and Entertainment, with all of the action shown live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on DAZN in the U.S. and more than 200 countries and territories on its just-launched Global platform, as Lawrence Okolie (14-0, 11 KOs) takes on Nikodem Jezewski (19-0-1, 9 KOs) for the vacant WBO International Jr. Heavyweight title.

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Gary Cully will go up against Viktor Kotochigov for the vacant WBO European lightweight title as part of the huge #MTKFightNight event taking place on Friday 19 February.

Cully (11-0, 5 KOs) and Kotochigov (12-1, 5 KOs) will meet on the undercard of the British lightweight title fight between Liam Walsh and Paul Hyland Jnr, which will be broadcast in the US on ESPN+ in association with Top Rank, and worldwide on IFL TV.

Irish star Cully was last in action in August, when he defeated Craig Woodruff, while former WBC International champion Kotochigov will be looking to bounce back following his battle with Maxi Hughes in October.

Cully said: “I’m really excited to be kicking off 2021 with my biggest fight yet. At the start of 2020 I had my first title now, and now at the start of 2021 I’ll be fighting for my second title, so thanks to MTK Global for getting it done.

“I watched Kotochigov against Maxi Hughes and he’s technically very good. He’s more experienced than me, and he’s coming off a loss so he will be looking to redeem himself. It’s a dangerous opponent that is coming to win and I’ll have to be on the top of my game to beat him.”

Promoter Lee Eaton added: “We’re thrilled to add this fantastic fight between Gary Cully and Viktor Kotochigov for the vacant WBO European lightweight title. Both men are determined to win and it’s an extremely interesting contest.

“It’s the latest big fight to be added to the bill following the British lightweight title showdown between Liam Walsh and Paul Hyland Jnr, so it looks set to be yet another must-see event.”

More news on exciting additions to future #MTKFightNight events will be announced over the coming weeks.

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

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

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

followed by

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

followed by

19:00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS

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

followed by

10 x 3 mins WBO International Super-Middleweight Title

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

followed by

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

followed by

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

followed by

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

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Eddie Hearn:

“We’re back in the bubble for a big night of boxing this Friday, the World Super-Middleweight Championship between Billy Joe Saunders and Martin Murray, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN around the world. It’s great to be here. We’ve been lifted by the news that fans will return for the Anthony Joshua versus Kubrat Pulev fight on December 12. 1,000 allowed into The SSE Arena, Wembley for that, so this effectively, touch wood, will be our last ever show, we hope, behind closed doors. We’re ready to make the most of it, and ready for a great night of boxing.”

Billy Joe Saunders – Hatfield, England – 29-0, 14 KOs – defending his WBO Super-Middleweight World Title against Martin Murray:

“First of all I’ve got to thank yourself and Sky for even getting us out this year. I didn’t think I was going to get out. All of the big fights were tied up, out of the fights that were left out there Martin Murray’s name was screaming out. We were supposed to fight twice before, it didn’t happen. He’s boxed for the World Title four times, he should have been a two-time World Champion, he was on the wrong end of two decisions.

“People are looking at this fight as a walk in the park for me and think I should win easily. If you look at Martin, he’s never took damage. He’s never been beaten up in a fight. Golovkin was what it was, he got him in his prime. I promised him his shot and it’s here. I believe that it’s my time to shine now. I’m doing this fight for my uncle Tom who passed away who was like a dad to me.

“I want the Jacobs fights and the Canelo fights and the Andrade fights now, but sadly everyone was tied up this year. The only one really worthy of taking the fight which was available was Martin Murray. He’s a four-time World Title challenger. In my opinion, two-time World Champion, so it’s not a bad pick out of the bunch.

“I know Martin is coming to fight. I haven’t been beaten on the UK soil since I’ve been 12-years-old. I’ve got a good track record, and I’m going to keep it that way. He’s going to bring a good game, but afterwards he can go back to St Helens, take his cash back and have a good Christmas and retire with the family, because that’s what I’m planning on doing, retiring him.”

Martin Murray – St Helens, England – 39-5-1, 17 KOs – challenging Billy Joe Saunders for the WBO Super-Middleweight World Title:

“This is my fifth one now. I know how hard a fight it’s going to be. I really rate Billy Joe. We’ve got unfinished business. Everything happens for a reason. I firmly believe, and truly believe that the pull outs years ago, all of the little set backs that I’ve had, have all brought me to this point and like I said, I’m fit, focused and ready.

“I get it, I get why he pulled out to be honest with you. We all want those bigger fights. It makes sense. There was a little bit of frustration at the time but I left that where it was and I’ve got nothing against Billy. We shook hands when I got beat in my fight against N’Dam, he was on the card with me. He’s here now and he’s honoured his word. He’s going to be in top condition himself and we’re going to lay it all on the line. It’s going to be a good fight.

“No one has ever done it in five times in the UK. I believe Groves four, Frank Bruno four, and I truly believe that there’s been a reason why I’ve picked myself up off the couch when times have been low and I’ve not wanted to go to the gym, but I’ve forced myself to get there. There’s been a reason for it and it’s for Friday. For me to achieve what no-one else has done in the UK.”

HANDOUT PICTURE COMPLIMENTS OF MATCHROOM BOXING
Zach Parker and Cesar Nunez Press Conference ahead of their WBO International Super-Middleweight Title on Friday night.
2 December 2020
Picture By Mark Robinson

Zach Parker – Derby, England – 19-0, 13 KOs – fighting Cesar Nunez for the WBO International Super-Middleweight Title:

“I’ve got to focus on Friday night. He’s going to be a tough opponent. I can’t look too far ahead with this mandatory spot. My full focus is on Friday night and Cesar Nunez. You’ve got to make noise with every fight. That’s why people want to watch you, for the knockouts and the showbiz. Hopefully I can give a good performance and make a big fight next year with Billy Joe or any of the other World Champions. I think Saunders vs. Murray is going to be a good fight. It’s last chance saloon for Martin Murray so we’ll just have to see what version of him turns up. I’m picking Billy Joe on points.”

Cesar Nunez – Pamplona, Spain – 17-2-1, 0 KOs – fighting Zach Parker for the WBO International Super-Middleweight Title:

“First and foremost I would like to thank Matchroom and Sauerland for the opportunity. I’m coming to take this chance and win on Friday night.”

Photos by Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing

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Matchroom Boxing are delighted to announce that 1,000 fans will be in attendance for Anthony Joshua OBE’s defence of his Undisputed WBO Title against Mandatory Challenger Kubrat Pulev at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Saturday December 12, following approval for a crowd from local authorities.

Fight fans will have the opportunity to watch unified king Joshua fight on home soil for the first time in over two years, with tickets priced at £100, £200, £300, £500 and £1,000 (VIP) available to purchase via AXS (www.axs.com) and StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) on Friday December 4 at 10.00am, as spectators are welcomed back to live boxing for the first time since March.

Strict safety measures and guidelines will be in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19:

The lead booker can only attend with members of their own household (ID including address will be required on entry).

Matchroom Boxing are participating in the NHS Test and Trace scheme. Lead booker details will be collected and shared for this in line with legal guidelines, and NHS Track & Trace check-in codes will be in place for fans to scan at entrances.

You must not attend an event if you have tested positive for Covid-19, are required to self-isolate or have suffered from Covid-19 symptoms within 14 days of the event.

You must wear a face covering at all times during your visit to The SSE Arena, Wembley (if you’re medically able to do so and aged 11+). They can be safely removed when you’re seated to eat or drink. Tickets must not be resold. No refund policy

Joshua (23-1, 21 KOs) vs. Pulev (28-1, 14 KOs) tops a huge night of action in London promoted by Matchroom Boxing in association with Top Rank and Epic Sports and Entertainment, with all of the action shown live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on DAZN in the U.S. and more than 200 countries and territories on its just-launched Global platform, as Lawrence Okolie (14-0, 11 KOs) takes on Krzysztof Glowacki (31-2, 19 KOs) for the vacant WBO Cruiserweight World Title, Manchester Heavyweight Hughie Fury (24-3, 14 KOs) returns against Poland’s Mariusz Wach (36-6, 19 KOs), Martin Bakole (15-1, 12 KOs) and Sergey Kuzmin (15-1, 11 KOs) fight for the vacant WBC International Heavyweight Title, Souleymane Cissoko (11-0, 7 KOs) takes on Kieron Conway (15-1-1, 3 KOs) in a ten round Super-Welterweight clash, Ramla Ali (1-0) faces Vanesa Caballero (3-9-3) in her second professional fight and Leeds Super-Bantamweight Qais Ashfaq (8-1, 3 KOs) looks to return to winning ways against Ashley Lane (14-9-2, 1 KO).

“I can’t tell you how happy I am to see fans returning to our live boxing events,” said Eddie Hearn, Managing Director of Matchroom Sport. “Whilst the team have done an incredible job over the last 10 months we live and breathe through the energy and atmosphere that a live crowd generates.

“It’s so fitting that they can return for an AJ fight, when through the last few years he has broken all kinds of attendance records in the U.K. and beyond. This is such a positive move for boxing and all sport. Welcome back!”

John Drury, VP & General Manager of The SSE Arena, Wembley, said: “The SSE Arena, Wembley is delighted to have our customers back for its reopening event, and it does not get any better than the return of fans to see Anthony Joshua in action.

“The SSE Arena, Wembley will open its doors with best-in-class procedures from ASM Global’s VenueShield programme. VenueShield is a comprehensive, industry-leading programme deployed at more than 325 ASM Global facilities around the world, providing the highest levels of enhanced cleanliness and safety.

“As a response to the coronavirus pandemic, ASM Global has partnered with medical professionals, industry leaders, and public health officials to create a welcoming, secure environment while providing the most advanced hygienic safeguards for anyone visiting the building.

“We are following all government and local authority health guidelines in order to reopen, and look forward to bringing fans and events back in a Covid-secure way.”

The fight which was originally planned for The O2 arena, has been moved to The SSE Arena, Wembley due to promoter logistics.

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Two-weight World Champ focused on all-British showdown

Billy Joe Saunders insists that he hasn’t overlooked four-time World Title challenger Martin Murray as he prepares to put his WBO Super-Middleweight crown on the line for the second time this Friday at The SSE Arena, Wembley, shown live on Sky Sports and DAZN.

Hatfield star Saunders (29-0, 14 KOs) was on the verge of securing a mega fight with Mexican pound-for-pound icon Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez earlier this year before the coronavirus pandemic turned the sporting world on its head and scuppered his shot at greatness.

Saunders, who was scheduled to face Murray twice in 2018, has expressed his desire to take on the winner of Alvarez vs. Callum Smith in a huge unification battle in 2021, but the 31-year-old two-weight World Champion has refused to underestimate St Helens man Murray.

“I just want to get one in before the end of the year,” said Saunders. “There’s a lot of fighters struggling to get out. I’ve had a major disappointment. The Canelo fight fell through in May. On Friday we’ll rock and roll.

“If you want to go on professional experience, he’s had more fights than me. He’s challenged for the World Title four times. He should have been World Champion in two of those fights. I’ve promised him a chance.

“There’s always a risk I could get in there and get knocked out in one round. There’s a risk to people’s lives. I haven’t overlooked Martin. I’ve trained myself the best I can for the date. I know he doesn’t lay down, I can’t afford that kind of performance.
“Martin has his own mind. He’s prepared how he wants to prepare, whether he wants to train on emotion, grit or experience. He has to find a way to beat me and that will be difficult for any fighters on the planet. I can sense frustration from Martin’s camp. We had two fights that fell through.

“I would be disappointed if I went in there and blew him away in one round. I need rounds for next year. I need to get in there, in the real thing, to go into the big fights next year. To get over that bridge I need to beat Martin Murray. He’s not one of those fighters you can ever completely right off.”

Saunders vs. Murray tops of big night of action in London, Derby’s Zach Parker (19-0, 13 KOs) takes on Spain’s Cesar Nunez (17-2-1, 9 KOs) for the WBO International Super-Middleweight Title, New Malden Super-Middleweight talent Lerrone Richards (13-0, 3 KOs) makes his Matchroom debut, Southamptons’ Lewis Edmondson (3-0) clashes with Manchester’s John Telford (11-2-1, 2 KOs) over six rounds at Super-Middleweight and exciting Sheffield Featherweight Donte Dixon (4-0, 3 KOs) meets Welshman Angelo Dragone (5-1) over six rounds.

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Dubois Vs. Joyce Discussion

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

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

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

TYSON FURY

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

DAVID HAYE

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

JOHN FURY

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

ANDY LEE

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

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

RICKY HATTON

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

PAULIE MALIGNAGGI

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

RICHIE WOODALL

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

LIAM WILLIAMS

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

NATHAN GORMAN

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

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

TOMMY FURY

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

CARL FRAMPTON

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

DAVID PRICE

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

ADAM CATTERALL

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

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

PADDY CONSIDINE

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

LOU DIBELLA

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

DEAN EDWARDS

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

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

RON LEWIS

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

CHRIS McKENNA

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

ANTHONY OGOGO

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

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

JON PEGG

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

KALLE SAUERLAND

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

SARAH SHEPHERD

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

LIAM SMITH

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

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

MARK TIBBS

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

TROY WILLIAMSON

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

WALLY DOWNES

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

GARETH A DAVIES

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

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

MIKE COSTELLO

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

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

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

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

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

FRANK WARREN

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

DANIEL DUBOIS

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

JOE JOYCE

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

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It ended in a flash, and once again, Terence “Bud” Crawford let his fists do the talking. Crawford successfully defended his WBO welterweight world title with a fourth-round TKO Saturday evening over former welterweight world champion Kell Brook.

Brook (39-3, 27 KOs) was leading on two of three judges’ cards entering the fourth round, but it was Crawford (37-0, 28 KOs) who unleashed the boom. A right jab forced Brook into the ropes for a knockdown. The end was near, as Crawford unleashed a combination that prompted referee Tony Weeks to stop the fight.

Crawford has now won eight straight fights by knockout dating back to July 2016.

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

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

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

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

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

(Photo Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank via Getty Images)

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TOMORROW at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT live on ESPN & ESPN Deportes

(ESPN & ESPN Deportes, 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT)

• 3-Division WBO World Champion and former Undisputed Jr. Welterweight Champion Terence Crawford 146.4 lbs vs. Kell Brook 147 lbs.
(Crawford’s WBO Welterweight World Title — 12 Rounds)
Judges/Referee: Patricia Morse Jarman, Dave Moretti and Benoit Roussel / Tony Weeks.

• Joshua Franco 114.5 lbs vs. Andrew Moloney 114.7 lbs
(Franco’s WBA Super Flyweight World Title — 12 Rounds)
Judges/Referee: Steve Weisfeld, Tim Cheatham and Lisa Giampa / Russell Mora

(ESPN+, 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT)

• Joshua Greer Jr. 118.9 lbs vs. Edwin Rodriguez 118.9 lbs
(Bantamweight— 8 Rounds)

• Tyler Howard 161.2 lbs vs. KeAndrae Leatherwood 161.9 lbs
(Middleweight — 8 Rounds)

• Duke Ragan 126 lbs vs. Sebastian Gutierrez 126.3 lbs
(Featherweight — 4 Rounds)

• Vegas Larfield 119 lbs vs. Juan Alberto Flores 117.3 lbs
(Bantamweight — 4 Rounds)

• Raymond Muratalla 137.3 lbs vs. Luis Porozo 135.2 lbs
(Lightweight — 6 Rounds)

Photos by M. Williams / Top Rank

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Sky Sports has announced it is making Saturday’s triple-header of women’s World Title fights available on YouTube, Facebook and skysports.com

Sky Sports has today announced that it will make this Saturday’s Fight Night boxing – including Undisputed WBO Lightweight Champion Katie Taylor’s defence against Miriam Gutiérrez – available to all via multiple digital platforms.

Taylor’s Lightweight bout against Spaniard Gutiérrez will be available to Sky Sports customers and non-subscribers alike, this Saturday from 7pm on the broadcaster’s YouTube and Facebook channels as well as on www.skysports.com.

As part of Sky Sports’ commitment to women’s sport – first announced back in March – the move comes with the aim of ensuring elite women’s sport is more easily accessible to the public through both increasing its existing coverage and by strengthening its digital output.

Adam Smith,  Sky Sports  Head of Boxing Development  said:  “We’re delighted to be able to make Saturday’s triple-header of women’s World Title fights, a world first, available to a wider audience to showcase some of the brightest talents in the sport. We’ve been with Katie from the beginning of her journey and are proud to be a part of the boom we’re seeing in women’s boxing. Through live streaming the action, we are able to bring more boxing fans closer to the hard-hitting action than ever before with this world first.”

Eddie Hearn, Managing Director of Matchroom Sport said: “This is more ground-breaking news that helps us push women’s boxing to where it needs to be. The momentum of the last few years led by Katie Taylor has been special to watch but we have still got a long way to go. Nights like Saturday change the narrative of the sport, and as I have said before, it’s not men’s boxing and it’s not women’s boxing, it’s just boxing. Katie Taylor is a trailblazer and it is only right that she headlines this card on Saturday on a moment that we have all been working towards for a very long time. The key is to give these great fighters the platform to become stars and achieve their dreams. Without the support from Sky Sports this would not be possible and I’m so happy that so many people will be able to watch Saturday’s event.”

As always, Sky Sports will take fans to the heart of the sporting drama, follow @SkySportsBoxing or go to skysports.com/boxing.

About Sky

With 24 million customers across seven countries, Sky is Europe’s leading media and entertainment company and is proud to be part of the Comcast group. Our 31,000 employees help connect our customers with the very best of Sports, News, the arts and to our own local, original content.

Following the success of Sky originals like Chernobyl, Patrick Melrose, Das Boot and Gommorah we launched Sky Studios and now plan to more than double our investment in original drama and comedy over the next five years.

Our technology allows customers to watch what they want, when they want, how they want, and as we connect millions of families to content they love, it is our responsibility to do it safely – that’s why we offer services like Sky Broadband Buddy and the Sky Kids app. And our online streaming service, NOW TV, brings viewers all the enjoyment of Sky with the flexibility of a contract-free service.

We also believe that a company of our scale has a responsibility that goes beyond our business, and into the community. Our Sky Ocean Rescue campaign has reached millions across Europe, we’re on track to be free of single-use plastic by 2020, we’re investing £25million over five years in ocean-saving tech and we’re a proud employer – recognised by The Times and Stonewall for our approach to inclusivity.

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The pound-for-pound king is set to reclaim his throne. WBO welterweight world champion Terence “Bud” Crawford will defend his title against former welterweight world champion Kell Brook in a special edition of Top Rank on ESPN Saturday, Nov. 14 at the Bubble.

Promoted by Top Rank and sponsored by GEICO, ESPN and ESPN Deportes will televise Crawford-Brook and Franco-Moloney 2 world title fight beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, while a full slate of undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.

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Naranjito, Puerto Rico – The World Boxing Organization (WBO), chaired by Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, Esq. held this afternoon the official belt presentation ceremony dedicated to new WBO Junior Lightweight Female World Champion, Mikaela Mayer (14-0, 5 KOs), from California.

During the event, a special recognition award was given to Super Middleweight sensation Edgar Berlanga (15-0, 15 KOs), of New York.

Former World Champions José Pedraza and Alex ‘El Nene’ Sánchez presented Mayer with the world title belt she officially won last Saturday in Las Vegas, by defeating five-time defending WBO World Champion Ewa Brodnicka, of Poland, via unanimous decision.

“She deserves it,” Valcarcel, Esq. said, “She was an Olympian, she has beaten several Puerto Ricans boxers like Kiria Tapia in the amateurs. She is an incredible person and has a great desire to be a world champion. She always told me of her interest in fighting for the title and she made it in a big way against Ewa Brodnicka, who at the time had five successfully world title defenses. It’s a great pleasure and honor to have Mikaela Mayer here”.

Mikaela Mayer:

“My opponent left the belt in the dressing room in fight night. Been here definitely made it very special and thank you all for having me here. I’m enjoying this little trip and excited to represent women’s boxing and the WBO World Champions”.

Berlanga, ranked ninth in the Super Middleweight Division by the WBO, was awarded a special WBO mini belt at the event for his spectacular ring performance. The knockout artist has been victorious in all of his fights via KO in the very first round. Three of his opponents had never been knocked before facing him. Berlanga’s power has been evident, drawing the attention of the fans and the world of entertainment.

“Berlanga has to be a super gifted athlete because having all of his knockout wins in the first round at Super Middleweight says a lot. We are recognizing him on this day to give him motivation and he has a future in our organization. If he matures as he looks, we may have a world champion in the future. The sky is the limit for you,” Valcárcel, Esq. said.

“Thank you all for being here. WBO, Paco, thanks for everything, and soon I will arrive on the island with the world title,” Berlanga said.

The event took place at the Atirantado Bar & Grill, located in the city of Naranjito, Puerto Rico.

Photos by Victor Planas

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Lawrence Okolie will take on Krzysztof Glowacki for the vacant WBO Junior Heavyweight World Title on the undercard of Anthony Joshua vs. Kubrat Pulev at The O2 in London on Saturday December 12, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on DAZN in more than 200 countries and territories including Poland.

Okolie (14-0, 11 KOs) claimed the EBU European Cruiserweight Title with a seventh-round stoppage of the previously unbeaten Yves Ngabu in October last year, capping a successful 2019 which saw four knockouts in as many fights for the Hackney man.

Glowacki (31-2, 19 KOs) knocked out Germany’s Marco Huck in eleven rounds to win the WBO World Title in 2015 before widely outpointing Steve Cunningham in his first defence. He suffered the first defeat of his career against Ukrainian pound-for-pound star Oleksandr Usyk in his next fight.

The Polish southpaw earned the interim WBO Title by decisioning Maxim Vlasov at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago in November 2018 but was stopped in three rounds by Latvia’s Mairis Briedis last year in a challenge for the full title.

“It has been a long and hard road to get here,” said Okolie. “I’m very excited and blessed to have this opportunity; I’ll be grabbing it with both hands. I will become Britain’s next World Champion on December 12.

“Glowacki is a great fighter and he is someone that I looked up to when I first started boxing. I believe he won the World Title the same year I was pushing to try and get on the Olympic team when I’d had 15 amateur fights.

“He’s a former two-time World Champion and has only lost twice to two elite opponents. He’s going to be my biggest test on paper as a professional. He is a consummate professional and will do everything in his power to win.

“I have to be on my A game, and I will be. I’m happy that throughout my career I have faced the best opposition that I could have at every stage. This is just another one of those.”

“I will retrieve my belt and I will bring it back to Poland,” said Glowacki. “I will become WBO World Champion for the third time in my career, there is no other option. I am prepared for a hard battle because Lawrence Okolie is big, strong and awkward, but the belt is mine and I will bring it back home.”

“In just 14 fights Lawrence Okolie has done it all and now it’s the moment of truth,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Britain has the chance to crown another World Champion but Lawrence has it all to do against a great fighter and former World Champ in Krysztof Glowacki and someone who has mixed consistently at the top level. This is going to be a huge night and a huge moment for Lawrence – we can’t wait.”

“The time has come for Lawrence,” said 258 Athlete Advisor Anthony Joshua. “This is a huge opportunity, one I know he will rise to. He is about to fight at the most elite level possible. He will prepare diligently and be ready.

“The whole team at 258 MGT are behind him. We are proud to have helped guide him inside and out of the ring since his professional debut to his first World Title opportunity in under 4 years.”

Joshua (23-1, 21 KOs) defends his IBF, WBA, WBO and IBO World Titles against Mandatory Challenger Pulev (28-1, 14 KOs) on a huge night of action, with more fights to be announced soon.

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Mexican star Jaime Munguia (36-0, 29 KOs) retained his WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Championship by defeating Tureano Johnson (21-3-1, 15 KOs) of Nassau, Bahamas at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino and live on DAZN. The fight ended in abrupt fashion after an uppercut from Munguia caused a severe cut on Johnson’s lip, which earned him the knockout win at the send of the sixth round.

“I’m delighted to get the victory,” said Jaime Munguia. “He surprised us early in the fight. He has a style that makes one very uncomfortable. But my corner told me to adjust and find my distance. Then I found the right uppercut. I saw that he had gotten cut from it, and then it was just a matter of time. I am ready for all the best fighters of my division.”

Elwin “La Pulga” Soto (18-1, 12 KOs) of Mexicali, Mexico retained his WBO Junior Flyweight World Title against Carlos Buitrago (32-6-1, 18 KOs) of Managua, Nicaragua via 12-round unanimous decision. Soto won with scores of 115-113, 117-111 and 119-109.

“I’m very happy to walk away with the victory,” said Elwin Soto. “I tried pressure as much as I good to score a win. These are the kind of tough fights you are in when a world title is at stake. His style was difficult for me, but I felt I did enough to win.”

For the vacant WBO Inter-Continental Super Middleweight Championship Bektemir Melkuziev (6-0, 5 KOs) defeated Alan Campa (17-5, 11 KOs) via 3rd-round KO.

Photos by Tom Hogan / Golden Boy Boxing

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Oleksandr Usyk’s huge Heavyweight clash with Derek Chisora at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Saturday October 31, include the WBO Middleweight World Championship Bout between Savannah Marshall and Hannah Rankin shown, live on DAZN in all of its nine markets including the U.S and Sky Sports Box Office in the UK.

Oleksandr Usyk 217.25 vs. Dereck Chisora 255.5

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WBO Female Junior Lightweight World Champion Ewa Brodnicka (19-0, 2 KOs) faces mandatory challenger Mikaela Mayer (13-0, 5 KOs) on Saturday at The Bubble.

Brodnicka-Mayer world title bout to stream LIVE Saturday on ESPN+ starting at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.

Mikaela Mayer:
“I feel great. I feel like I’m deserving. I’ve been the No. 1 contender for a long time. This fight will put me a step {closer to} my goal.”

“I think that she is concerned. She has never been in the ring with someone like me.”

“This is a team effort. We have been together for a long time. It started 11 years ago with the Olympic trials. It will mean a lot to me to make {head trainer} Al {Mitchell} proud on Saturday night.”

Ewa Brodnicka
“She is the No.1 contender, but I think this fight was going to happen anyway.”

“I brought my belt just to show it to you. Look at it. I didn’t bring this belt to give it to you. That’s not happening. For sure.”

“I have a lot of things against me. But I’m ready. I don’t care if she says that she doesn’t respect me. She makes a lot of mistakes, and I’m going to take advantage of all of them.”

Photos: M. Williams / Top Rank

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