Ring City USA, the new sports media startup that debuted its Thursday night boxing series in November 2020, announced today a change in the headliner of its March 18 event, their second of three cards during its residency in Puerto Rico.

With the previously announced Hector Tanajara unable to fight due to an illness, former super featherweight Alberto Machado, (22-2, 18 KO), will now face hard-hitting Mexican contender Angel ‘Tashiro’ Fierro, (17-1-1, 13 KOs), of San Diego, Calif. in a ten-round main event clash, highlighting the latest chapter of the iconic Puerto Rico vs. Mexico ring rivalry. The event emanates from the famed Alberque Olimpico (Olympic Center) in Salinas, P.R.

Fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico, Fierro returns to battle following a ninth-round knockout of Alexis Reyes on October 16, 2020. Since turning pro in 2015, the 22-year-old has flashed an aggressive fighting style which is highlighted by six career first-round knockouts.

The next two Ring City USA events (March 18 and March 25) are televised in the United States and Puerto Rico on NBC Sports Network and the NBC Sports app on Thursday nights at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with undercard action streaming live on Twitch. The full card, which will be announced shortly, will be available on Twitch outside of the United States.

Follow Ring City USA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest updates or visit www.ringcityusa.com.

About Ring City USA
Ring City, which launched in 2020, is boxing’s newest sports media platform. Working in tandem with a variety of promoters and talent, its new boxing series places an emphasis on competitive matchups that genuinely test the fighters and excite the fight fans. Ring City provides great fights in the ring and compelling shoulder programming outside of the ring. Ring City is the proving ground where up-and-coming talent can earn their stripes and launch themselves into the upper echelon of boxing stardom.

Ring City USA, the new sports media startup that debuted its Thursday night boxing series in November 2020, has unveiled undercard fights for their March 4 and March 18 events, three weeks ahead of their residency in Puerto Rico.

All events will be televised in the United States and Puerto Rico on NBC Sports Network and the NBC Sports app on Thursday nights at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with undercard action streaming live on Twitch.

On March 4, Ring City will take over the Felix Pagan Pintor Gym in Guaynabo with the previously-announced main event between undefeated blue-chip rising star Serhii Bohachuk (18-0, 18 KOs) and former middleweight title challenger Brandon Adams (22-3, 13 KOs) for the vacant WBO NABO Jr. Middleweight title in a 10-round affair. In the co-main event on NBCSN, undefeated prospect Danielito Zorilla (14-0, 11 KOs) of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, will meet Kazakhstan’s Ruslan Madiyev (13-1 5 KOs) for the WBO NABO Jr. Welterweight title in a 10-rounder.

About Ring City USA

Ring City, which launched in 2020, is boxing’s newest sports media platform. Working in tandem with a variety of promoters and talent, its new boxing series places an emphasis on competitive matchups that genuinely test the fighters and excite the fight fans. Ring City provides great fights in the ring and compelling shoulder programming outside of the ring. Ring City is the proving ground where up-and-coming talent can earn their stripes and launch themselves into the upper echelon of boxing stardom.

(18 de febrero de 2021- San Juan, Puerto Rico) – El presidente fundador de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB), licenciado Luis Batista Salas, y el actual presidente de ese ente regulador, licenciado Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel Mulero, lideraron el pasado martes un cónclave entre las principales figuras del boxeo en Puerto Rico para discutir con el nominado secretario de Recreación y Deportes (DRD) Ray Quiñones Vázquez, el futuro de esta industria a nivel isla.

El abogado de la OMB, licenciado Gustavo Olivieri Miranda, también dijo presente en el encuentro. Por el DRD, participaron Quiñones y el asesor legal de la agencia, licenciado Raúl Santiago. Los promotores Raúl Pastrana (Spartan Boxing), Bryan Pérez y Héctor Soto (Miguel Cotto Promotions), Peter e Iván Rivera (Puerto Rico Best Boxing) y Javier Bustillo (Universal Promotions), y el presidente de la Federación Puertorriqueña de Boxeo Aficionado, José Laureano completaron la matrícula en el encuentro llevado a cabo en la sede del DRD, en Santurce.

“La reunión fue convocada por la OMB y basado en lo discutido podemos predecir que el boxeo profesional de Puerto Rico inicia una nueva etapa post COVID-19 en busca de retornar a su sitial internacional como una de las jurisdicciones más importantes en el mundo. Esto se logrará mediante, en parte, la celebración mensual de carteleras de primer nivel (en Puerto Rico),” indicó el licenciado Batista Salas. “Los participantes se comprometieron a unir esfuerzos para cumplir esta meta.” Los presentes en la reunión también expresaron su apoyo unánime al nombramiento de Quiñones como Secretario de Recreación y Deportes.

“Esperamos que el Senado de Puerto Rico actúe con prontitud en relación a este nombramiento para continuar los esfuerzos en pro del beneficio del boxeo profesional de Puerto Rico,” agregó Batista Salas.

Por su parte, Quiñones Vázquez indicó que “para mí era de suma importancia poder llevar a cabo esta reunión y dejarles saber mis intenciones con el deporte en general.”

Fotos por Víctor Planas / OMB

The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame regretfully announces the postponement of its 2020 induction Weekend until summer of 2021. The severity of the Coronavirus Pandemic and the subsequent uncertainty resulting from it, caused NVBHOF President and CEO Michelle Corrales-Lewis to make the announcement. The 8th annual weekend spectacular had been scheduled for August 7-8 at Red Rock Hotel in Las Vegas.

“We waited as long as possible before making this difficult final decision,” stated Michelle Corrales-Lewis. “Our induction weekend features numerous events that require close proximity of our devoted boxing fans with honorees. Hundreds of fans mix with our inductees, champions, and celebrities where hand-shaking, hugging, picture-taking, autograph-signing, and close-in dining are all part of the experience. We do not want to reduce the quality and emotion of the weekend for our Inductees, and certainly do not want to put anyone’s health in jeopardy because of the nature of our event.”

The 2020 Class of Inductees will be augmented by additional names comprising the 2021 Class, and both will be celebrated in the most spectacular event in NVBHOF’s history next summer. The 2020 Inductees are: Andre Ward, James Toney, Miguel Cotto, Fernando Vargas, Clarence “Bones” Adams, Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson, Azumah Nelson, Julian Jackson, Jose Luis Castillo, Danny “Little Red” Lopez, Carlos Padilla, Jose Sulaiman, Lorenzo Fertitta, and Sammy Macias.

We will closely monitor Federal, State and Local guidelines in future months and then announce details. All decisions will be guided by our top priority being the health and safety of those who attend our events.

Tickets purchased are fully refundable. Check our website: www.nvbhof.com for details. We recommend if you have reserved hotel rooms for the induction weekend, that you call and cancel.

The NVBHOF, a charitable 501-c-3 non-profit, is unable to hold normal fund-raising events because of the pandemic, and also had to close its museum. We request continued support through donations which can be made on our website.
The 2020 Induction Class includes

Fernando “El Feroz” Vargas (26-5, 22 KO’s)
Clarence “Bones” Adams (44-7-4, 20 KOs)
Andre “SOG” Ward (32-0, 16 KOs)
James “Lights Out” Toney (77-10-3, 47 KOs)
Miguel Cotto (41-6, 33 KOs)
Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson (44-5-1, 28 KOs)
Julian “The Hawk” Jackson (55-6, 49 KOs)
Azumah “The Professor” Nelson (39-6-2, 28 KOs)
Danny “Little Red” Lopez (42-6, 39 KOs)
Jose Luis Castillo (66-13-1, 57 KOs)

Non-Boxer Inductees includes
Carlos Padilla
Lorenzo Fertitta
Sammy Macias
Jose Sulaiman

2020 Fighter of the Year
Devin Haney (24-0, 14 KO’s)

2020 Prospect of the Year
Rolando “Rolly” Romero (11-0, 10 KOs)

2020 Amateur of the Year
Rahim Gonzales

The WBO Family would like to congratulate the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame class of 2020 members:

Former WBO World Champions Miguel Cotto, Andre Ward & Mark “Too Sharp” Johnson, as well as former titlists James Toney, Fernando Vargas, Clarence “Bones” Adams, Azumah Nelson, Julian Jackson, Danny “Little Red” Lopez & Jose Luis Castillo.

The ceremony will take place Aug. 7 and 8 at the Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa in Las Vegas.

OMB: Guayanilla, Yauco, Peñuelas y Guánica recibieron suministros de primera necesidad y deportivos en compañía de Miguel Cotto, Félix ‘Tito’ Trinidad y Carlos ‘Purin’ Caraballo

La Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB) bajo su programa ‘WBO Kids Drug Free’, participó en la mañana y tarde de hoy en emotiva actividad donde visitaron a los afectados de los terremotos ocurridos en el sur de Puerto Rico, particularmente en los pueblos de Guayanilla, Peñuelas, Yauco y Guánica.

Durante la actividad, se repartieron camas inflables, refrigerios, artículos de primera necesidad y deportivos.

De la actividad, participaron los legendarios excampeones mundiales, Félix ‘Tito’ Trinidad y Miguel Cotto, junto con el boxeador en ascenso e invicto Carlos ‘Purin’ Caraballo, de Guayanilla.

“Donde mi gente me necesite, ahí estaré. Siempre pueden contar conmigo y lo digo de corazón”, dijo un emocionado Félix ‘Tito’ Trinidad.

“Para mi es un gran placer poder ayudar a los necesitados. Estaremos pendiente para que todo esté bien y seguir dando la mano”, dijo Miguel Cotto.

Una vecina del barrio Playa en Guayanilla, de nombre Gladys, manifestó que, “Muchos aquí perdimos nuestras casas por el huracán María. Nos tomó mucho tiempo y sacrificio volver a reconstruirlas y ahora por los terremotos, hemos perdido nuestras casas de nuevo y estamos muy afectados. La visita de la OMB y conocer a dos grandes campeones del boxeo ha sido una bendición. No se olviden de nosotros, que esto no es fácil”.

‘WBO Kids Drug Free’ es un programa internacional dirigido a niños y jóvenes con el fin de llevar un mensaje de prevención al consumo de drogas y motivarlos a continuar en los estudios, utilizando el deporte como una herramienta para mantenerse en buenos pasos, al igual que apoyar causas dirigidas a los más necesitados con el fin de aportar a que puedan obtener una mejor calidad de vida.

Fotos por Víctor Planas

Fernando Gaztambide
Oficial de Prensa OMB

WBO Jr. Featherweight World Champion Emanuel Navarrete honored at 22nd WBO Golf Tournament

GUAYAMA, Puerto Rico – Current Junior Featherweight Champion Emanuel ‘El Vaquero’ Navarrete was recognized by the World Boxing Organization (WBO) today, during the 22nd Annual WBO Golf Tournament at ‘El Legado Golf Club’ in Guayama. This edition of the annual golf competition serves as preamble to the Thirty-Second Annual WBO Convention, which will be held in the city of Tokyo, Japan, from December 2 until Thursday, December 5, 2019.

Navarrete, who has successfully defended his title three times this year, winning all by knockout said, “I’m very happy to be here in Puerto Rico with the WBO. I will continue working hard to continue defending the title and I hope to continue climbing divisions. I hope to continue fighting for the WBO as they were the first to give me the opportunity to be world champion.”

“When I mentioned on social media that Navarrete is the best 122 pounds in the world, many criticized me but now time proved me right,” said WBO president Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel Mulero. “Navarrete has the punch of Wilfredo Gómez when he was at 122 pounds and we know he will continue to give much to talk about. The sky is the limit for him.”

Winners of the Golf tournament:

Five-time World Champion Miguel Cotto won second place in the Net category and Gino Rodriguez, WBO Vice President won ‘The Straightest Shot’.

Meanwhile, in the ‘Gross’ category, Jonathan Rodriguez won first place, Angel Woods took second place and Francisco Martinez took third place.

In addition, the Sportsmanship Award went to Andrew Horn, Esq.

WBO executive officers, promoters, managers, boxers and other boxing personalities worldwide participated in the tournament.

The event was to benefit the successful global program ‘WBO Kids Drug Free’.

WBO Kids Drug Free is an international program aimed at children and young people in order to carry a message of drug prevention and motivate them to continue studying, using sports as a tool to stay on the right path, as well that support causes directed to those in need in order to ensure a better quality of life.

This Saturday, October 26, ‘WBO Champions Tournament’ continues at Rubén Zayas Coliseum in the city of Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico, where WBO Mini-Flyweight World Champion Wilfredo Méndez will make his first title defense against Mexican Axel Aragon.

In other WBO bouts, 2008 Beijing Olympic Games gold medal Felix Diaz (20-3, 10 KOs), of Dominican Republic, will face Mexican Darío Fermán (18-6, 15 KOs ) for the vacant WBO Latino Welterweight title.

Dominican Yenifel Vicente (35-4-2, 27 KOs) faces Mexican Rodolfo Hernández (30-7-1, 28 kos) for the WBO Latino Jr. Featherweight title, and Dominican Frency Fortunato (7-0, 6 kos) faces Mexican Marcos Muñiz (14-0, 11 kos) for the WBO Youth Jr. Featherweight belt.

For more information related to the WBO Convention, access: www.wboboxing.com

WBO ‘CHAMPIONS TOURNAMENT’ SERIES; Amanda Serrano will be honored; Golf tournament with boxing stars & Legends

CAGUAS, PUERTO RICO- For three boxing events during the month of October, the World Boxing Organization will serve as a link to give Puerto Rican talent a chance when conducting its “Champions Tournament” which will have several important scepters at play and help build the shoe for what will come in 2020.

It will have its headquarters on October 4 at the Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida, immediately followed on October 5 at the Pedrín Zorrilla Coliseum in San Juan,PR and culminating on the 26th at the Rubén Zayas Montañez Coliseum in Trujillo Alto,PR.

“Near the WBO Convention we always do a‘ Champions Tournament ”. We did it in Panama in 2018 and we have done it in Puerto Rico, in Orlando, in Miami. But being the convention this year in Japan (December 2-5), we wanted to do something as usual in the Caribbean, ”said WBO President Francisco ‘Paco’Valcárcel.

“We will have four championship fights as part of that tournament, starting on October 4 in Kissimmee with Yomar Álamo (17-0 with 12 KO’s) against Mexican Antonio Morán (24-4 with 17 KO’s) for WBO NABO Jr. Welterweight title. Subsequently, we have Danielito Zorrilla (12-0 with 10 KO’s) against the Aztec Jesus Perez (23-2 with 18 KO’s) for the WBO NABO interim Jr. Welterweight title with the idea that the winner there will face the winner between Álamo and Morán in a unifying fight for the NABO title by the beginning of 2020 ”.

As if that were not enough, the Miguel Cotto Promotions cartel on October 5 will have a second championship fight when the Nicaraguan Carlos Buitrago faces the Puerto Rican Israel Vázquez for the vacant WBO Latino Jr. Flyweight title. The tournament will then end on October 26 with the Spartan Boxing cartel, in which Wilfredo ‘Bimbito’ Méndez will defend his WBO World Mini-Flyweight crown for the first time.

The ambitious tournament presented by the World Boxing Organization of the event on Saturday, October 5, where Danielito Zorrilla faces Jesús Antonio Pérez will be seen exclusively in Puerto Rico for DIRECTV clients on channel 161

“We are very happy with the opportunity that Paco Valcarcel and the entire World Boxing Organization gives us to be part of this great championship tournament and more which will be live television throughout Puerto Rico on DIRECTV where we will have our most important boxer Danielito Zorrilla in his most important fight. Without a doubt, the champions tournament is a very important platform for all the promoters and boxers that will participate, it is the beginning of great opportunities for big fights, ”said promoter and vice president of Miguel Cotto Promotions, Héctor Soto.

Amanda Serrano will be honored:

As part of the festivities, the female world champion in seven divisions, Amanda Serrano, will be present in Kissimmee and San Juan, where she will be honored after being crowned recently as the new WBO Jr. Featherweight monarch.

“Amanda Serrano will be with us. She wants to dedicate her triumph to the Puerto Rican community. She will be first in Kissimmee on October 4. From there, Amanda flies to Puerto Rico to be on October 5 at Coliseum Pedrín Zorrilla, where she will be given her new champion belt at 126 pounds, ”said Valcárcel.

“She is going to stay in Puerto Rico for a couple more days because she turns 9 on October 9 and from there she will return to the United States because she has to continue training for the MMA fight that she has on the agenda soon.”

Golf tournament with boxing stars

To conclude the festivities, the WBO will host a golf tournament in “El Legado” in Guayama with the participation of several pugilisms, legends, as well as several of the best local fighters today.

“Before the October 26 card, we will have a golf tournament on October 24 with local boxers, trainers to share with professional boxing stars, such as Miguel Cotto, Oscar de la Hoya and Ronald ‘Winky’ Wright, as well as Eric Gomez, president of Golden Boy Promotions. They could be joined by others, such as Jaime Mungía (WBO World Jr. Middleweight Champion) and Emanuel Navarrete (WBO World Jr. Featherweight Champion). Some are still to be confirmed, ”added Valcárcel.

INDIO, CALIFORNIA – Los boxeadores mexicanos son reconocidos por su gran capacidad de asimilación, pero durante siete años de carrera profesional, el sanjuanero y orgullo de Barrio Obrero Ángel ‘Tito’ Acosta se ha ‘alimentado’ de ellos a diestra y siniestra, recetándole siempre su dosis de cloroformo.

Y este próximo viernes aspira a continuar esa racha de fulminados cuando efectúe la cuarta defensa de su cetro mundial de las 108 libras de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo ante el mexicano Elwin ‘La Pulga’ Soto desde el Fantasy Springs Casino en Indio, California este viernes por la aplicación DAZN.

El pleito servirá de antesala al duelo de revancha por el campeonato mundial de las 130 libras de la Asociación Mundial de Boxeo entre el boricua Alberto ‘El Explosivo’ Machado (21-1 con 17 KO’s) y el monarca azteca Andrew Cancio (20-4-1 con 15 KO’s) durante el cartel presentado por Golden Boy Promotions y Miguel Cotto Promotions.

“Elwin es un peleador que viene subiendo, que estuvo en el equipo Nacional de México y que hizo una carrera aficionada larga. Pero como profesional no ha tenido tantos rivales de mérito. Ahora va a tenerse que probar conmigo”, sostuvo Acosta, quien exhibe foja de 20-1 con 20 nocauts, incluyendo nueve frente a rivales mexicanos.

“Tengo un campeonato que lo quieren mucho y él está entrenando para quitarme el título, para lograr su sueño. Pero se va a quedar con las ganas. Me he preparado súper bien y nunca subestimo a mis rivales”.

Según Acosta, el escenario ideal sería que Soto (14-1 on 10 KO’s) se pare en el centro del cuadrilátero y se ponga a pelear con él, tal como han querido hacer sus compatriotas en el pasado, en vez de ponerse a boxear.

“Eso sería bueno para mi, que se pare a pelear. De los videos que he visto, eso es lo que hace. Ahora hay que ver si aguanta mi pegada. No se ha topado con alguien como yo, que pegue como yo”, sostuvo Acosta, quien se canto listo para una pelea larga, si es necesario.

“He estado entrenando fuerte acá en Los Ángeles con Juan de León por siete semanas, con Juan he trabajando mucho en movimientos laterales y en pelear con más inteligencia, como hice en mi última pelea. Vamos a trabajar ese nocaut para que llegue, tarde o temprano”.

A UNA GUERRA EN CAGUAS MCWILLIAMS ARROYO Y CARLOS BUITRAGO

CAGUAS, PUERTO RICO -Por los pasados cinco años, tanto el boricua McWilliams Arroyo como el nicaragüense Carlos Buitrago han estado envueltos en varios pleitos de campeonato mundial, con el primero disputando cetros en las 112 libras y el segundo haciendo lo propio en las 105 y 108 libras.

Y este sábado, ambos disputarán la oportunidad de volver a pelear por un campeonato mundial cuando se midan al máximo de 10 asaltos por el cetro Latino peso mosca de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo durante el pleito estelar del cartel de ‘Noche de Campeones DIRECTV en la coliseo Roger Mendoza de Caguas, en presentación de Miguel Cotto Promotions y H2 Entertainment el cuál se transmitirá de forma exclusiva para los clients de DIRECTV en su canal 161 – OnDIRECTV-HD.

“Tenemos planes de ser campeón y Buitrago es la piedra en el camino. Sé lo que significa esta pelea y me he preparado bien para un gran peleador”, sostuvo Arroyo (18-4 con 14 KO’s), que aspira a que una exitosa defensa de su cetro Latino ante un nombre como Buitrago lo catapulte a otro combate de campeonato mundial.

“Buitrago es un peleador con nombre. Una victoria sobre él me puede ayudar mucho. Pero es un peleador peligroso, con gran asimilación y tiene mucha experiencia. Hay que venir listo para todo con él, sea boxear o sea intercambiar golpes. Va a ser una pelea dura”.

Buitrago, por su parte, apuesta a que el subir de peso a las 112 libras le beneficiará en términos de fuerza y resistencia y que los resultados se verán el sábado en Caguas ante Arroyo.

“No voy a exprimirme tanto para marcar el peso. Voy a hacer peso cómodo, voy a estar más fuerte y eso ya se reflejó en los entrenamientos y en lo guanteos. Espero que McWilliams esté listo para mi”, sostuvo Buitrago (31-4-1 con 17 KO’s).

“Esta será una gran pelea, este sábado vamos a ver boxeo de nivel mundial en Caguas y será en exclusivo por DIRECTV. Ambos son dos guerreros y la meta es pelear por el campeonato mundial, el ganador de esta pelea se acerca a esa oportunidad,” sostuvo Miguel Cotto

On Saturday, February 16, former Olympian McWilliams Arroyo will return to the ring at Complejo Ferial de Puerto Rico in Ponce, Puerto Rico.

Arroyo (17-4, 14 KOs) will be in the headline fight of the event ‘Noche de Campeones: DirecTV when he faces the Mexico’s Carlos Maldonado (11-2, 7 KOs) in a fight for a maximum of 10 rounds for the vacant Latino Flyweight champion of the World Boxing Organization (WBO).

It will be Arroyo’s first fight since losing a tough decision to Japan’s Kazuto Ito last September where the World Boxing Council (WBC) silver super flyweight title was at stake.

Also on the card, undefeated Luis Feliciano, Carlos ‘Purín’ Caraballo and Edwin ‘Chín’ Valentín , as well as Juan Carlos Camacho.

Feliciano (9-0, 6 KOs) will be in the co-feature when he faces Alexander Charneco (5-6, 4 KOs) at 147 pounds. Feliciano, a prospect under Golden Boy Promotions, has won six straight fights by knockout. He has roots in Utuado, but resides in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Meanwhile, Carlos ‘Purín’ Caraballo (9-0, 9 KOs) will risk the undefeated record against experienced Mexican Christian Esquivel (30-16-1, 23 KO) in the bantamweight division.

Caraballo, from Guayanilla, has been successful in his first two experiences outside Puerto Rico after winning bouts in Las Vegas and LosAngeles during 2018. He will now return to fight at home for the first time since 2017 when he was in action at the Complex Ferial in Ponce.

Another one of the prospects in action will Edwin ‘Chin’ Valentín (6-0, 6 KOs), who will try to extend that string of knockouts when he faces Israel Suarez (4-6-3).

In addition, Juan Carlos ‘Indio’ Camacho (8-1, 4 KOs) returns to Ponce to look for his third consecutive victory when he takes on Luis Cosme (8-11-1, 3 KO) in the super flyweight division. Other confirmed fighters for event will be Alberto Nieves (4-0, 2 KO), Yariel Reyes (1-0) and Christian Lebrón (1-0).

By Miguel Rivera / Boxingscene.com

Photo: Victor Planas / WBO

Aston Palicte vs. Jose Martinez: WBO Jr. Bantamweight World Title Eliminator

LAS VEGAS (December 20, 2019) – Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions and Miguel Cotto Promotions will co-promote a potential early candidate for the 2019 Fight of the Year, when world title challenger “Mighty” Aston Palicte (24-2-1, 20 KOs) takes on unbeaten Jose “Chiquiro” Martinez (20-0-2, 13 KOs) in a World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior bantamweight title eliminator on Thursday, January 31, at Viejas Casino & Resort in Alpine, California.

Palicte vs.Martinez will headline a soon-to-be-announced card in the 12-round main event, held on the Thursday night of Super Bowl week, in the Oak Ballroom. Viejas Casino & Resort is located 35 miles outside of San Diego.

The winner of the Palicte vs. Martinez title eliminator will become the mandatory challenger for the winner of the New Year’s Eve match in China for the vacant WBO Junior Bantamweight World Championship, between No. 1 contender Donnie Nietes (41-1-5, 23 KOs) and No. 3-rated Kazuito Ioka (23-1, 13 KOs).

Palicte and Martinez will continue a Philippines-Puerto Rico boxing rivalry that dates back many years, perhaps, highlighted by the 2009 showdown between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto, in which the fabulous Filipino defeated the Puerto Rican warrior by way of a 12th round technical knockout. It marks the first time Jones and Cotto, two of the greatest boxers of all-time, will be in opposite corners, in terms of competing fighters they promote, respectively, Palicte and Martinez.

“Having our new partnership with Viejas Casino & Resort allows us to host these great fights,” Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions CEO/Co-founder Keith Veltre remarked. “Having a Roy Jones Jr. and Miguel Cotto fighter face-off makes this fight even more exciting. 2019 is going to be the biggest and most active year for RJJ Boxing.”

“This is the type of fight that changes your career,” Hall of Famer/promoterCotto said. “We know ‘Chiquiro’ Martinez is ready for the challenge and it will be an exciting fight. Promoting this fight, together with Roy Jones, Jr., will be great for boxing. We really look forward to start 2019 with a great fight like Martinez vs. Palicte.”

“All of us at Viejas are excited to be working with Roy Jones, Jr. and look forward to this amazing event,” added Jimmy Wild, GM Viejas Casino & Resort.

Palicte (WBO No. 2) heads the latest wave of world-class Filipino boxers, who is coming off a controversial 12-round split draw with his fellow countryman, 3-division world champion Nietes, for the vacant WBO Junior bantamweight title this past September in Inglewood, California. Many at ringside felt that Palicte should have won the Filipino showdown, based on his relentless pressure and considerably higher activity rate, throwing 300-plus more punches than Nietes.

Palicte is also ranked No. 9 in independent world ratings by The Ring magazine.

Martinez (WBO No, 4), who captured the vacant WBO North American Boxing Organization (NABO) Championship on November 16, 2017, knocking out Jesus Martinez (23-2-1, 11 KOs) in Cancun Mexico, has also held the World Boxing Council Latino and WBC USNBC Silver crowns.

“I want to thank God for this great opportunity,” Martinez commented. “Thank you, Miguel Cotto and the WBO. I feel excited because this is the most important fight of my career with a high-level boxer as Palicte. I will train really hard to be in the best condition. We are really focusing on getting the big win on January 31st.”

Priced at $65.00, $55.00 and $45.00, tickets go on sale t

Con figuras de primer nivel, inicia la trigésima primera Convención de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo en Panamá

Con un festejo especial de cumpleaños para el multicampeón Miguel Cotto y un cóctel de bienvenida para todos los miembros, arrancó la trigésima primera Convención de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo bajo un sabor muy canalero.

Y es que la OMB celebra su reunión anual en tierras panameñas, donde se espera la presencia de campeones mundiales como Terence Crawford, Jaime Munguía, quien por el momento reina en la categoría de los Pesos Welters y varios más.

Además Juan Manuel Márquez, Campeón de la Década de la OMB, Marco Antonio Barrera y Vladimir Klitschko, también podrían arribar en cualquier momento.

El encargado de dar el banderazo de inicio en el hotel sede de la capital panameña fue el puertorriqueño Francisco Valcárcel, quien espera que esta edición sea histórica y el 2019 sea igual el año más importante para el organismo que hoy encabeza.

Quienes ya hicieron acto de presencia en el evento boxístico fueron la regiomontana Arely “Ametralladora” Muciño, Fernando “Cochulito” Montiel e Iván Calderón entre otros.

En cuestiones de boxeo, se revisará el actual reglamento, habrá trabajos puntuales con los réferis, así como sesiones para actualizar los rankings y el cierre de acuerdos para celebrar algunas pelas mandatorias.

Durante esta Convención 31, se le rendirá un homenaje póstumo a Ramón Pina Acevedo, fundador y presidente de la OMB, quien murió en su casa en febrero pasado.

https://deportes.televisa.com/box/convencion-omb-sabor-latino/

Panama – Today at the Radisson Summit Golf Course in Panamá, the WBO celebrated their 21st Golf Tournament to officially kick off the WBO 31st Convention. During this week, the rest of the activities will be taking place at ‘Hotel El Panamá’.

Results:
Category Net
First Place – Miguel Cotto
Second Place – Ference Budai
Third Place – Thomas Pütz

Category Gross
First Place – Thomas Schmidt
Second Place – Jose Oliveras
Third Place Gross – Luis Melendez

Longest Drive – Ursulo Perez
Sportsmanship Award – Dino Duva
Calloway Award – Francisco Valcarcel

PANAMA CITY, Panama — The 31st WBO Convention in Panama could not be imagined without a thrilling boxing event, and that is precisely what boxing fans and convention attendees will get on October 31 at the plush Centro de Convenciones Vasco Núñez de Balboa in Hotel El Panamá in Ciudad de Panamá.

The exciting main event is the intriguing battle between unbeaten, promising, young featherweights, Jean Carlos “Chapito” Rivera (15-0, 10 KO’s) of Puerto Rico, and Jason “El Alacrancito” Sánchez (12-0, 6 KO’s) of New México for the vacant WBO World Youth Featherweight crown.

Also, in a battle of experienced world-ranked warriors, José “Páncora” Velásquez (21-6-2, 14 KO’s) of Quellón, Chile, faces tough Yenifel Vicente (33-3-2, 25 KO’s) of the Dominican Republic for the WBO Latino Super Bantamweight belt.

Moreover, unbeaten Argentina fighter “El Avión” Agustín Gauto (9-0, 5 KO’s) climbs up to the square ring to take on skilled world-ranked Nicaraguan former world-title challenger Carlos “Chocorroncito” Buitrago (30-4-1, 17 KO’s) for the vacant WBO Latino 108-pound strap.

In addition, unbeaten world-rated 2-time Olympian Jeyvier Cintrón (8- 0, 4 KO’s) of Bayamón, Puerto Rico, defends his WBO Latino 115-pound title against veteran Ricardo “El Matemático” Nuñez 29-8, 23 KO’s of La Chorrera, Panama, in a 10-rounder battle that promises fireworks.

Furthermore, world-ranked WBO Latino Super Featherweight champion Francisco Fonseca (22-1-1, 16 KO’s) of San Ramón, Costa Rica, makes the second defense of his Latino belt against heavy-handed challenger Yohan Vásquez (21-2, 18 KO’s) of the Dominican Republic.

2-time Olympian Jeyvier Cintrón of Bayamón, Puerto Rico, defends his WBO Latino 115-pound title against Marvin Solano of Managua, Nicaragua

EXCITING PRELIMINARY BOUTS

Moreover, two non-stop action-packed 6-rounder preliminary clashes between young Panamanian fighters are set crank up “Copa Cemento Interoceánico.”

Undefeated Jaime Valdespino (3-0, 2 KO’s) of Curundú takes on Eliécer Tenorio (2-2, 1 KO) of La 24 de Diciembre; plus, Edgardo Avila (1 -1, 1 KO) of Ciudad de Panamá squares off hard-hitting José Beitia (3-1-1, 3 KO’s) of David, Chiriquí. Winners will fight each other in the co-main event of next fight card “Box Zona 4” in Panama.

This exciting boxing event during the WBO 31st Convention is a production of Panama promotion company G&V Entertainment in association with PR Best Boxing Promotions of Puerto Rico.

Tickets can be purchased on the day of the event (Oct 31) or by contacting fulltickets.com.

Ticket prices:

Super VIP: $ 125 US Dollars
VIP Area: $ 65 US Dollars
Preferential: $ 25 US Dollars

Panamanian sponsors for this boxing show are:

Cemento Interoceánico 100% Panameño, Cable Onda Sports, Centro Comercial Los Andes Mall; Cerveza Panamá; El Siglo, El Periódico del Pueblo; RPC Radio, Telemetro Radio, Caliente 97.1; Super Q; Arrendadora Económica, No 1 en Alquiler y Venta de Autos; Ambulancia Vive and Radio Station Wao 97.5 FM Panama.

Fights Start at 7 PM.

By Carlos Costa / PhilBoxing

 

Puerto Rico’s Angel “Tito” Acosta retained his Jr. Flyweight crown (108 pounds) of the World Boxing Organization (WBO) by defeating Nicaraguan mandatory challenger Carlos Buitrago by technical knockout in the main event bout of the “La Batalla” card, which was staged at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Now, the Puerto Rican puncher increases his record to 18-1 and 18 KO’s. Meanwhile, Buitrago drops to 30-4-1 and 17 KO’s

.

At the end of the fight, Acosta said he was happy to have prevailed and acknowledged that Chocorroncito was a strong rival.

This was the first defense of Acosta, who won the title in December of last year when he knocked out Mexican Juan Alejo in New York.

“We were working. The corner told me to walk to the right side, and he took the right. He is a super experienced boxer. He knew how to move and fight well,” said Acosta, who dedicated his victory to the parents.

The final came at 1:43 of the last round with a combination of punches that Acosta landed on Buitrago, and that caused referee Luis Pabon to stop the fight.

Acosta managed to corner and shake the Nicaraguan challenger in most of the rounds. However, Buitrago managed to exhaust the Puerto Rican slugger, who from the sixth round forward had a much lower rate of attacks.

In fact, in rounds seven, eight, nine and 10, Buitrago seemed to revive himself and sought to box in the center of the round. In the eleventh round, Acosta began to rally hard and press with his harder punches.

https://www.boxingscene.com/angel-acosta-stops-carlos-buitrago-final-round-retains-title–129198

 

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (June 12, 2018) – The official weigh in was held today for tomorrow night’s “La Batalla” pay-per-view event, headlined by the 12-round main event between World Boxing Organization Jr. Flyweight World Champion Tito Acosta (17-1, 17 KOs) and challenger Carlos “Chocorroncito” Buitrago (30-3-1, 17 KOs), airing live on PPV from the Coliseo de Puerto Rico Center in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico,

La Batalla: Acosta vs. Buitrago is presented by Miguel Cotto Promotions, and H2 Entertainment, in association with DIRECTV Puerto Rico.

Integrated Sports Media is distributing the La Batalla: Acosta vs. Buitrago card in the United States on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV, DISH and live-streamed worldwide (excluding Puerto Rico.on the FITE.TV app and website (www.fite.tv), starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, for a suggested retail price of only $34.95.

(

PPV BOUT SHEET

MAIN EVENT – WBO JUNIOR FLYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP (12)
Tito Acosta (17-1, 17 KOs), Champion, San Juan, Puerto Rico 108 lbs.
vs.
Carlos Buitrago (30-3-1, 17 KOs), Challenger, Managua, Nicaragua 107.2 lbs.

CO-FEATURE – JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (8)
Kevin Nieves (12-1-1, 5 KOs), Comerio, Puerto Rico 140 lbs.
vs.
Jean C. Torres (10-0, 7 KOs), Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico 139 lbs.

FEATHERWEIGHTS (8)
Bryan Chevalier (9-1-1, 8 KOs), Bayamon, Puerto Rico 126 lbs.
vs.
Ricardo Rodriguez (10-2-1, 6 KOs), Mayaguez, Puerto Rico 125 lbs.

SUPER FEATHERIGHTS (6)
Edwin Valentin (4-0, 4 KOs), Salinas, Puerto Rico 130 lbs.
vs.
Pedro Vincente (5-1, 2 KOs), Mayaguez, Puerto Rico 130 lbs.

(all fights & fighters subject to change).

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) will oversee four major fights this week around the world, including a world championship bout.

Starting on Thursday, June 14 at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan, seventh ranked Hiroaki Teshigawara (16-2-2, 9 KOs), of Tokyo, will defend his WBO Asia-Pacific Bantamweight title against the two-time world title challenger Teiru Kinoshita (26-2-1, 9 KOs), of Kobe.

In the same card, 12th ranked Ryuichi Funai (29-7, 20 KOs), from Tokyo, will face former world champion Warlito Parrenas (26-7-1, 23 KOs), from Philippines, for the vacant WBO Asia-Pacific Jr. Bantamweight belt. Both fights are scheduled for 12 round as part of a event promoted by Dangan Boxing.

Also on Thursday, but in Indio, California, Filipino Mercedito Gesta (31-2-2, 17 KOs) will battle Robert Manzanarez (36-1, 29 KOs), of Arizona, for the vacant WBO NABO Lightweight title, in a 10 round clash.

The event, which will take place at Fantasy Springs Casino, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, and will feature a live broadcast on ESPN, starting at 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time (5:30 p.m. Pacific time).

Meanwhile, on Saturday, June 16 at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan, WBO Jr. Flyweight Champion, Ángel ‘Tito’ Acosta (17-1, 17 KOs), from Puerto Rico, will be making his first title defense, against 10th ranked, and former WBO Youth and Latino champion, Carlos Buitrago (30-3-1, 17 KOs), of Nicaragua, in a schedule 12 round fight. Nitro Casino https://kasynopl.com/nitrocasino/

In Puerto Rico, DIRECTV subscribers will be able to see the event through channel 161, OnDIRECTV, starting at 9 p.m, Eastern time (6:00 p.m. Pacific time). Integrated Sports Media is distributing the card in the United States on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV, DISH and live-streamed worldwide (excluding Puerto Rico) on the FITE.TV app and website (www.fite.tv), for a suggested retail price of $34.95.

The event is promoted by Cotto Promotions, in association with H2 Entertainment.

Cotto Promotions hosted open workouts today in Puerto Rico to promote this Saturday’s “La Batalla” pay-per-view card, headlined by the 12-round main event between World Boxing Organization Jr. Flyweight World Champion Tito Acosta (17-1, 17 KOs) and challenger Carlos “Chocorroncito” Buitrago (30-3-1, 17 KOs), airing live on PPV from the Coliseo de Puerto Rico Center in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico,

La Batalla: Acosta vs. Buitrago is presented by Miguel Cotto Promotions, and H2 Entertainment, in association with DIRECTV Puerto Rico.

“I’m very happy to be here in this great land of champions. I came with a dream and is to take that Championship to my family and my country. I’m in one of the best conditions of my career and I come to give everything to take the title” said ‘Chorroconcito’ Buitrago. The young fighter from the city of Managua, Nicaragua will let his experience be the key to the fight “I feel good because I have the experience. I’m not afraid to come to the home of the champion and win against his people. I trust my preparation and I’m ready to go face to face with Tito Acosta, I’ll leave everything on Saturday night, “said Carlos Buitrago.

‘Tito’ Acosta downplayed the comments of his opponent: “I’m ready. The knockout comes alone. I will go up to fight, and defend my title in front of my people” commented Tito Acosta.

Integrated Sports Media is distributing the La Batalla: Acosta vs. Buitrago card in the United States on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV, DISH and live-streamed worldwide (excluding Puerto Rico.on the FITE.TV app and website (www.fite.tv), starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, for a suggested retail price of only $34.95.

Nicaraguan challenger Carlos “Chocorroncito” Buitrago hopes his fifth world title shot, June 16 against World Boxing Organization Jr. Flyweight World Champion Tito Acosta, headlining “La Batalla” to air on pay-per-view, live from the Coliseo de Puerto Rico Center in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico.

La Batalla: Acosta vs. Buitrago is presented by Miguel Cotto Promotions, which is owned and operated by the first Puerto Rican boxer to capture world titles in four different weight classes, future Hall of Famer Miguel Cotto, and H2 Entertainment, in association with DIRECTV Puerto Rico.

Integrated Sports Media will distribute the La Batalla: Acosta vs. Buitrago card in the United States on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV, DISH and live-streamed worldwide (excluding Puerto Rico) on the FITE.TV app and website (www.fite.tv), starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, for a suggested retail price of only $34.95.

WBO #12-rated Buitrago (30-3-1, 17 KOs) has had four unsuccessful title challenges, losing three times, along with one draw. He was stopped for the first time in his last fight this past December, by undefeated International Boxing Federation (IBF) Minimumweight World Champion Hiroto Kyoguchi (8-0), in the eighth round of their title fight in Japan.

All three of Buitrago’s career losses have been to world champions, including a pair to Thammanooon Niyomtrong (11-0) in 2014 and 2016, both by way of 12-round unanimous decisions in Thailand. Buitrago also fought a 12-round split draw in 2013 to then-WBO Minimum World Champion Merlito Sabillo (12-0) in Manila, Philippines.

Acosta (17-1, 17 KOs), who will be making his first world title defense against Buitrago, at home in Puerto Rico, captured the vacant WBO title last December at famed Madison Square Garden, when he knocked out Juan Alejo (24-4-1), of Mexico, in the 10th round.

“I’m not at all concerned about fighting Tito Acosta in his country, basically his ‘hood,” Buitrago said. “I’m used to fighting for the world championship in my opponents’ country, just as I did with Merlito Sabillo, but they robbed me of that victory. I’m working consciously and think I’m in great shape to challenge Tito Acosta and seize the championship.

“Truth be told, I’m in perfect shape, I will fight a smart fight; if Acosta wants to battle, so be it, I’m used to battling hard hitters. If he comes into the ring with the intention to battle, I will fight intelligently.”

Naturally, the 26-year-old Buitrago believes his experience advantage will be the difference versus Acosta, allowing him to bring the world title back to Nicaragua, like Puerto Rico, a hotbed for boxing.

“I think that this being my fifth world title fight, I have experience on my side,” Buitrago added. “I’m relaxed and ready thanks to the training I’ve had in Nicaragua. I’m not sure what Tito Acosta will bring into the ring June 16. I don’t think Tito Acosta is going to learn the necessary moves and techniques in a month. He is a raw boxer who relies only on the strength of his blows. I don’t believe that he will bring anything new into the ring and if they change him, the only thing that will accomplish is confuse him. I’m always emphasising my preparation. I’m coming in smart because I’m bringing the ability to work round for round. My only objective is to bring the world championship to Nicaragua.

“I think’s it’s great initiative on Miguel Cotto’s part to promote new boxing talents. I’m grateful to Miguel Cotto and his team for giving me the opportunity to be the one to challenge Tito Acosta in his first world title defense.

“I’m a likeable boxer, people like to watch me fight. I’m known for being a smart fighter that, when fighting is needed, I fight, and when boxing is needed, I box. We work on half and short distance, which is why I believe people like to see me fight. All those who attend or watch on pay per view will enjoy a great fight.”

http://ringsidereport.com/?p=72442

CAGUAS, PUERTO RICO – All help is good in the face of a first world title defense of the world championship, especially if it comes from the hands of someone with the wealth of experience from former four divisions world champion, Miguel Cotto.

And that is the case of the WBO Jr. flyweight champion, Ángel ‘Tito’ Acosta, who has several sessions of individual work with Cotto to complement that with his coaches in the face of his championship fight on June 16 in the Coliseo de Puerto Rico against the dangerous Nicaraguan Carlos Buitrago as part of a card presented by Miguel Cotto Promotions and H2 Entertainment and which will be televised by DIRECTV Puerto Rico as part of his series ‘Night of Champions’.

Acosta had his most recent encounter with Cotto on Wednesday afternoon in Caguas, where he was seen working certain combinations and displacements that Cotto used to use effectively.

One of them included the use of two consecutive jabs to open the guard, a small displacement to then connect a straight shot and then enter with two powerful hooks before moving again outside the area of exchanges.

“He’s taught me the technique, how to put solid punches. Anyone who stands in front of me, hit him hard. “(Also a) be more aggressive, use the skill, push the boxer, do many things.”, said Acosta (17-1 with 17 knockouts), who is already putting into practice what was taught by Cotto during his preparation.

“Now (Cotto) is well stuck (helping me). He has time to attend me and his boxers. It has helped me a lot. Yesterday I learned a lot from him. On Monday I also did couple of techniques and (later) I was able to do them in sparring. We already have the fight strategy”.

Acosta has aspirations to convert Buitrago (30-3-1 with 17 knockouts) in his eighteenth victim by way of the knockout but he knows that the Nicaraguan will be elusive, so he intends to make the most of the occasions in which the Central American fighter decide to ‘raffle’ in the ‘give and take’.

“He has good boxing, he’s coming to box me, to keep me from hitting him. That’s why I’m smart. The knockout comes alone. But if I see that I can knock him out quickly, I knock him out, ” Acosta said, adding that Buitrago will leave Puerto Rico without achieving his dream of being a world champion.

“He says he’s not going to touch the canvas. But on June 16 he will touch his dream. He will achieve his dream by touching the canvas. ”

For his part, Cotto expressed satisfaction to work with Acosta, although he ruled out dedicating himself fully to the facet of being a boxing trainer.

“Tito is a hard-working, humble, neighborhood boy. The only thing that is done is to help in the best possible way. He has confidence in me and I know he will do the best he can in the fight. In the way that he can trust me, we will continue working in the same way, “said Cotto, adding that whenever he has time, he will do everything possible to share his vast knowledge in pugilism with the boxers he represents and who are coming up .

“This is something spontaneous, (which is given) every time there is an opportunity. It’s not in my north to train (full-time fighters). ”

Integrated Sports Media will distribute La Batalla: Acosta vs. Buitrago in the United States by cable, satellite under the Pay Per View system in digital through iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV, DISH and live broadcast worldwide (excluding Puerto Rico) in the FITE Application and website. TV (www.fite.tv), from 9 p. M. ET / 6 p.m. PT, for a price of only $ 34.95.

World Boxing Organization Light Flyweight World Champion Tito Acosta will showcase his vast skills June 16 in his first title defense against Nicaraguan challenger Carlos “Chocorroncito” Buitrago in the “La Batalla” 12-round main event, airing on pay-per-view, live from the Coliseo de Puerto Rico Center in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico.

La Batalla: Acosta vs. Buitrago is presented by Miguel Cotto Promotions, which is owned and operated by the first Puerto Rican boxer to capture world titles in four different weight classes, future Hall of Famer Miguel Cotto, and H2 Entertainment, in association with DIRECTV Puerto Rico.

Integrated Sports Media will distribute the La Batalla: Acosta vs. Buitrago card in the United States on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view via iN Demand, Vubiquity, DIRECTV, DISH and live-streamed worldwide (excluding Puerto Rico) on the FITE.TV app and website (www.fite.tv), starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, for a suggested retail price of only $34.95.

Building his own legacy in a traditionally rich, hot-bed for boxing like Puerto Rico, Acosta (17-1, 17 KOs) captured the vacant WBO title last December at famed Madison Square Garden, when he knocked out Juan Alejo (24-4-1), of Mexico, in the 10th round.

An outstanding amateur boxer with more than 180 matches, highlighted by his gold-medal performance at the Central American Games,), the San Juan-based fighter has defeated 22-5 Juan Guzman (KO1), 12-1 Japhet Uutoni (TKO12), and 28-5-3 Luis Ceja (KO2).

“My goal is to be the best,” Acosta said. “I grew-up watching Tito Trinidad and Miguel Cotto, who are my favorite fighters. I will work as hard as I can to give the best to my family, as well as make my island proud. I will win on June 16th and let the world know that I am the best 108-pound boxer in the world.”

Having a future Hall of Famer such as Cotto as his promoter is a tremendous advantage, in and out of the ring, for Acosta. “It means a lot and is an honor for me to have a living legend like Miguel Cotto as my promoter,” Acosta explained. “He has guided my career the best way. He also gets involved in my camp and wants me to get better and better every fight.”

“Tito Acosta is a really good fighter,” Cotto commented about his protégé. “He is World Champion for a reason. We will work to give him the best opportunities. Tito has an opportunity to show the world on June 16th what he is made of and who he is. As World Champion, he needs to be at the highest level to have a brilliant performance each fight, because the better performances and victories, the bigger name he will build.”

“It is important for a fighter to do his job in the ring because every performance is a unique opportunity to show the world who you are and at what level you belong. People in Puerto Rico love boxing, and its fighters.”

WBA #2-rated Buitrago (30-3-1, 17 KOs) will be fighting in his fifth world title fight, after losing three times with one draw. He was stopped for the first time in his last fight this past December, by undefeated International Boxing Federation (IBF) Minimumweight World Champion Hiroto Kyoguchi (8-0), in the eighth round of their title fight in Japan.

All three of Buitrago’s career losses have been to world champions, including a pair to Thammanooon Niyomtrong (11-0) in 2016 and 2014, both by way of 12-round unanimous decisions in Thailand for the Interim WBA title. Buitrago also fought a 12-round split draw in 2013 to then-WBO Minimum World Champion Merlito Sabillo (12-0) in Manila, Philippines.

“Chris Buitrago is a great fighter and tough challenger, who has the highest level of experience, and that motivates me,” Acosta spoke about his Nicaraguan opponent. “People want to watch a toe-to-toe brawl and he brings that style. I think he will brawl with me, but I’ll be ready for any style he brings June 16th.

“I work for the KO (he has 17 knockouts in his 17 wins) because that’s what fans like. I work for that every fight and I will win June 16th by knockout!”

Additional June 16th PPV fights will soon be announced. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Press Release by Full Court Press

Ali dethrones Cotto, seizes WBO 154lb title

By Arvin Nundloll at ringside
Photos: Sumio Yamada

Puerto Rican boxing legend Miguel Cotto (41-6, 33 KOs) came up short in his final Saturday night in front of 12,391 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Former Olympian Sadam Ali (27-1, 14 KOs) scored a twelve round unanimous decision over Cotto to take Cotta’s WBO junior middleweight world title by scores of 115-113, 116-112, 115-113.

Both fighters started cautiously, testing each other with the jab in effort to see what lay ahead the next possible 12 rounds. Ali wobbled Cotto in the 2nd with a stunning straight right but seconds later went down via a slip to kill any momentum he may have had. The 3rd brought back and forth action from both fighters leading to intelligent exchanges and a more dominant Cotto round. Ali then turned the tables on Cotto in the 4th, landing overhand right hooks that stopped Cotto in his tracks and building his confidence. Round 6 saw Cotto deliver a right hook that sent Ali flying to the ropes, reminding the younger fighter whose goodbye party it was.

The later rounds become closer affairs as both fighters began slowing down and were able to better time their punches, some landing flush yet still nothing significant between the two to separate them on points. The 10th round brought out another of Ali’s finest rounds as he shocked Cotto with a lunging left hook that backed him up and continued to apply an assault with no response from Cotto. The 12th round saw a reemergence for Cotto which may have saved the day given how close some of the rounds had been.

 

 

 

Sadam Ali: Cotto is coming to MY territory

 

Jr Middleweight title challenger Sadam “World Kid” Ali (25-1, 14 KOs) hosted a media workout at his gym in Brooklyn ahead of his fight against WBO world junior middleweight champion Miguel Cotto (41-5, 33 KOs) set for this Saturday at Madison Square Garden. “I’m really excited to be fighting at MSG against a legend. I know what’s in front of me, and I know what I’m stepping up to. I’m different. I’m a bit of a boxer. I can brawl if I need to. And I have my little tricks.

“My motivation is being on HBO, it being a world title, and my career honestly. People say I didn’t deserve this fight, but they haven’t been paying attention to my career. This is my hometown. I grew up here. Cotto is coming to my territory…he’s got power. I need to focus on not getting stuck. I worked a little bit with Danny Jacobs and Curtis Stevens for this fight…I want to thank all the fans who are coming to watch my fight! It’ll be a great one!” Juridiska svenska kasinon låter dig spela med bankid .

Date:  Saturday, August 26, 2017

WBO JR. MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE BOUT

Location:  StubHub Center, Carson, California, USA

Promoter:   Golden Boy Promotions/Oscar De La Hoya; Miguel Cotto Promotions/Miguel Cotto; Teiken Promotions/Akihiko Honda

Supervisor:   Francisco Valcarcel, Esq.

Referee: Lou Moret

Judges:  Robin Taylor (120-108); Pat Russell (119-109); Zac Young (118-110)

Results:   The vacant WBO Junior Middleweight World Title was obtained by Miguel Cotto (41-5, 33 KOs) with a unanimous decision victory against the Japanese Yoshihiro “El Maestrito” Kamegai (27-4-2, 24 KOs).

TV:  USA HBO, Latin America: Canal Space