Tag Archives: Boxing Insider Notebook: Pacquiao

Boxing Insider Notebook: Pacquiao, Khan, Ward, Kovalev, Ortiz, Garcia, Schaeffer, and more…

Posted on 11/09/2016

Boxing Insider Notebook: Pacquiao, Khan, Ward, Kovalev, Ortiz, Garcia, Schaeffer, and more…
Compiled By: William Holmes

The following is the Boxing Insider notebook for the week of November 1st to November 8th, covering the comings and goings in the sport of boxing that you might have missed.

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Manny Pacquiao Donates World Title Belt to his Countrymen

The streak continues! No sooner had boxing superhero Senator MANNY “Pacman” PACQUIAO (59-6-2, 38 KOs) won the World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight world title for a third time — dethroning the younger and taller defending champion Jessie Vargas (27-2, 10 KOs) on Saturday in front of 16,321 fans at the Thomas & Mack Center — boxing’s only eight-division world champion jetted back to Manila in time to attend the first day of the Philippine Senate’s new session. Pacquiao has not missed one day of Senate activity since being sworn in, despite a grueling schedule that incorporated an intense training camp for his challenge of Vargas.

Upon entering the Senate chamber today, as a world champion, carrying his new world title belt, Senator Pacquiao was lauded by his colleagues. The Senate passed a resolution commending Pacquiao’s discipline to effectively serve the citizens of the Philippines while training for his world championship challenge in his ring return against Vargas, both on a fulltime basis.

Pacquiao, the first senator from any country to win a world title, then presented his new world championship belt to Senate President Koko Pimentel as a gift to the citizens of the Philippines.
“To manifest my heartfelt thanksgiving, I would like to donate my WBO welterweight belt to the Senate of the Philippines. The honor does not belong to me alone but to every Filipino,” said Pacquiao. “May it serve as an inspiration for everyone to pursue excellence and to continue fighting for our nation’s sovereignty.”

SENATE OF THE PHILIPPINES RESOLUTION NO. 217

SENATE CONGRATULATES SENATOR PACMAN: Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and the other senators congratulate their colleague Senator Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao after the Senate approved Senate Resolution No. 217 commending Pacquaio for his recent victory over former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Welterweight Champion Jessie Vargas, during Tuesday’s session, November 08, 2016. Apart from Pimentel, Senators Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian, Leila de Lima, Risa Hontiveros, Grace Poe, Richard Gordon, Senate Minority Leader Ralph Recto and Senate Majority Leader Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, along with Senators Loren Legarda, Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara, Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan II and Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan were also present to celebrate Pacquaio’s win.

Road to Kovalev vs. Ward Debuts November 12th

With a 43-year history of televising the biggest fights in pro boxing, HBO Sports takes an in-depth look at 2016’s most-anticipated matchup of undefeated fighters as they prepare for their light heavyweight unification title fight in ROAD TO KOVALEV/WARD. The special debuts SATURDAY, NOV. 12 at 12:30 a.m. ET/PT, immediately following the “HBO Boxing After Dark” replay that begins at 11:00 p.m.

Other HBO playdates: Nov. 13 (11:45 a.m., 4:00 a.m.), 14 (8:45 a.m., 2:30 p.m.), 16 (5:00 p.m., 12:30 a.m.), 17 (3:15 a.m.), 18 (6:45 p.m.) and 19 (5:15 p.m.)

HBO2 playdates: Nov. 15 (3:40 p.m., 11:35 p.m.), 17 (9:00 p.m.), 18 (1:00 a.m.) and 19 (10:50 a.m.)
The special will also be available on HBO NOW, HBO GO and HBO On Demand, and at hbo.com/boxing, as well as other new media platforms.

Russian-born Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (30-0-1, 26 KOs), 33, has taken over the light heavyweight division in meteoric fashion with an aggressive style and overwhelming knockout power. He certified his status as an elite fighter two years ago by dominating ring legend Bernard Hopkins. Now, after locking up three title belts, Kovalev is looking to take his superb career to the next level.

Hailing from Oakland, Cal., 32-year-old Andre “S.O.G.” Ward (30-0, 15 KOs) was a super middleweight champion before his recent move up to light heavyweight. Ward’s domination of the 168-pound division included wins over Chad Dawson, Carl Froch, Arthur Abraham, Allan Green and Mikkel Kessler. Undefeated since age 14, he is the last American male to win an Olympic gold medal (2004) in boxing. Ward boasts a wide assortment of skills that gives him an edge with many seasoned boxing observers.

The special visits the training camps of Kovalev and Ward as they prepare for their light heavyweight unification title showdown.

ROAD TO KOVALEV/WARD is narrated by Liev Schreiber.

“Kovalev vs. Ward” takes place Saturday, Nov. 19 at T-Mobile Arena in Los Vegas, NV and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. (ET)/6:00 p.m. (PT).

Ortiz vs. Scott Fight Week Quotes

Luis Ortiz (25-0, 22 KOs) Quotes:

“I always had faith in my manager and friend, Jay Jimenez, but I never expected this fast turn around and I’m so excited about the future. God has been great to me and my family – I’m ready.

“I’m going to be very busy over the next few months and looking forward to boxing in many countries as we continue my journey to the heavyweight World championship.

“I am a very experienced fighter. I have had the best boxing education with more than 350 fights under my belt. I believe I have the ability to adjust to any fighter and any style. That was evident in my fights with Jennings and Thompson.

“I am very proud of myself. I’m also very proud how I am bringing Cuba back into the minds of all boxing fans. Cuba is one of the most accomplished countries in terms of boxing. The style and speed and all the things we have, they are taught to us at a very young age. This is what makes us great boxers.

“I want to fight the very best and I want to be the heavyweight champion of the world. I’m willing to fight anyone, any champion, any place, any time. I’m ready for anyone: Joshua, Wilder, Klitschko. I know I can beat all of them.

“I feel I have been at my peak for many years now. I have simply been late [arriving] on the US heavyweight boxing scene. I have been fighting since I was in elementary school. Boxing is a very, very deep passion of mine.

“Now, it is a way to give my family a better future, and I tell you, no one will stand in my way of accomplishing this. In my eyes, I am the heavyweight champion of the world and if anyone, any other champion, is willing to challenge me, to face me, I can and will prove it.

“I do have a lot of respect for the heavyweight champions. They have accomplished a lot and have sacrificed a lot to be where they are. They do deserve recognition. I just want the chance to beat them and be [seen by all as] the next true heavyweight champion.

“I think Fury was able to shake up the heavyweight division and because of him, the division is now one of the most exciting divisions to watch! I just want to get the opportunity to face him, or Wilder, to prove I am a champion as well.”

Malik Scott (38-2-1, 13 KOs) Quotes:

“I don’t want people to get the wrong end of the stick – I picked to fight Luis Ortiz. People have crowned him as the next king of the heavyweight division, so that’s the kind of guy I want. If it wasn’t him, I wanted to fight David Haye or Anthony Joshua.

“Is he the most feared? Anyone will fight him but for the right amount of money. He’s a 6’ 4” Cuban southpaw – he’s got a hell of a pedigree, he can fight and he’s dangerous – but that makes me want to fight him. I gravitate to risks like this, because the rewards out there are huge.

“I went to Australia and beat Leapai, I came home to beat Thompson who had just beat Odlanier Solis, another guy that had been hyped. People said that Thompson would beat me, I gave him a clinic. Ortiz is dangerous, but a punch at heavyweight can change everything. He doesn’t know what it’s like to sit on the shelf and wait for a fight, get messed around by opponents. I am just as hungry as he is.

“I can only blame myself for lost opportunities. Inconsistency has cost me. Fans, managers and promoters have to trust your performances in this sport and I haven’t been consistent enough – but that has nothing to do with my ability.

“Leapai and Thompson are top ten guys and now I have Ortiz which is must-win for me. You cannot afford today to put two wins together then lose. People’s attention spans these days are so small. You have to keep winning and show people that you are a winner, that’s what I have to do.

“I have boxed a few southpaws but none of Ortiz’s quality. Luis is the best of all the southpaws but I don’t see perfection. I don’t look at the invincibility that the casual fans see and if I can take advantage of those holes in his game he’s going to taste his first loss.

“Everyone he’s beat has been on a plate for him, but against me, he’s going to have to work to get his shots off, I’m no dummy in the ring, I’m very intelligent, and I believe I will be victorious (Saturday).”

Ringstar Sports Comes Out “Signing” As U.S. Olympian Carlos Balderas & Brother Jose Balderas Agree to Join New Promotion Company

Ringstar Sports, the newly formed promotional company headed up by longtime boxing executive Richard Schaefer, made another big move last week when the company signed highly touted 2016 U.S. Olympian Carlos Balderas, along with his brother Jose, to promotional agreements. Ringstar will represent the two amateur standouts as they turn professional and guide their dreams as both fighters hope to secure lucrative futures for themselves and their family. The Balderas brothers, who signed their contracts in Ringstar’s LA-based offices last Tuesday, are the first fighters to join the company.

“Carlos Balderas was one of the most sought-after Olympians coming out of the 2016 Summer Games and I am so pleased that he, and his brother Jose, agreed to join Ringstar Sports,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports. “Carlos, Jose and their entire family are the type of people that we want to do business with at our company. I am going to do whatever it takes to make Carlos the face of boxing and his brother will be right there with him. Both of these young men are exceptional fighters with great skills and even better work ethics. Most importantly, they have a desire to be great and so does Ringstar. I am looking forward to getting started.”

“I’m really excited to start this partnership with Ringstar Sports and I’m looking forward to working with Richard for a long time,” said Carlos Balderas. “My brother and I chose Ringstar because we immediately felt comfortable with Richard. He was very honest with me from the beginning and I really believe he’s the best promoter in the sport. I’m ready to start my career and grow my fan base. I’m looking to do big things in this sport. It’s not just about a paycheck. I want to win world titles and build a legacy.”

“My brother and I are really comfortable with Richard and we believe he has the right vision for our careers,” said Jose Balderas. “Richard has a vision not just for himself and his company, but he has the vision that will lead to us becoming world champions. That’s what every boxer dreams of. I just can’t wait until fight time. I want to show everybody what we’re made of and the things that we can do. We’re going to leave it all in the ring and leave the fans entertained every time.”

“My whole family is very happy with this decision to join Richard and Ringstar Sports,” said Zenon Balderas, Carlos and Jose’s father. “Richard is a very smart man who is going to do amazing things for my sons. I know that my sons will be world champions, the question is, how many times? I believe that Richard has the mind to get us where we need to go.”

The Balderas brothers grew up in Santa Maria, California and are the sons of Mexican parents who immigrated to the United States. Under the care of their father and uncles, Emiliano and David, the boys were brought to a gym at a very young age to harness their energy into boxing. The brothers quickly took to the sport and combined with a strict regimen implemented by their father, began their impressive amateur careers.

Carlos was impressive in the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, winning lightweight contests over fighters from Kazakhstan and Japan before a decision loss in the quarterfinals to the top seeded fighter from Cuba. He earned his spot in Rio after a stellar amateur career that saw him lose only nine times in 184 fights. His long list of accomplishments includes a Youth National Championship in 2014, four National PAL championships, a Junior National Golden Gloves championship in 2013, two Junior Olympic titles, two National Silver Gloves championships and three Adidas National tournament titles. In 2015, Balderas won four of five bouts in the World Series of Boxing, only losing due to a head butt from the top-ranked fighter from Azerbaijan in a fight in Azerbaijan that Balderas was winning. Balderas had just 10 days to recover from the injury before his next bout, but he gained medical clearance and knocked out Puerto Rico’s Javier Martinez in the second round. In October of that year, Balderas received the call from USA Boxing that he was the first American to qualify for the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

Jose is also a rising prospect in the sport as he made his name winning numerous tournaments in the Southern California amateur boxing circuit while racking up an impressive 80 victories in 88 fights. In addition, the bantamweight won a Junior Golden Gloves championship, two Adidas National tournaments, a National PAL title and two Junior Olympic tournaments. Jose also advanced to the quarterfinals of the U.S. Olympic trials. Although he is a year older, Jose waited until his brother’s Olympic journey had finished to turn pro so that the two could enter the professional ranks at the same time.

Now the Balderas brothers are focusing on developing their skills so that they can one day became world champions in the professional ranks. With Ringstar Sports in their corner, Carlos and Jose are on their way to reaching the peaks of their vast potential.

Local Talent Stacked on Danny Garcia vs. Vargas Undercard

An exciting night highlighting the best rising talent in the Philadelphia-area comes to Temple University’s Liacouras Center on Saturday, November 12 and will feature middleweight prospect Kyrone Davis (10-1, 4 KOs) facing once-beaten Carlos Gabriel Ozan (12-1, 4 KOs) and unbeaten super lightweight Milton Santiago (15-0, 3 KOs) against Argentina’s Claudio Rosendo Tapia (28-16-4, 13 KOs) in a pair of eight-round showdowns.

The event is headlined by undefeated welterweight world champion and Philadelphia-native Danny “Swift” Garcia taking on Colombia’s Samuel Vargas. Coverage of Premier Boxing Champions on Spike begins at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT and features undefeated rising star Jarrett Hurd battling former title challenger Jo Jo Dan plus former world champion Javier Fortuna taking on unbeaten Omar Douglas.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DSG Promotions and King’s Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $75, $50 and $35 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit LiacourasCenter.com/events or call 800-298-4200. Garcia is teaming up with Philabundance, the region’s largest hunger relief organization, to arrange a regional food drive and raise money throughout the promotion.

Additional action will feature a pair of unbeaten Philadelphia prospects as Thomas Velasquez squares-off against Miami’s Raul Chirino in a four-round super featherweight affair while Christian Carto faces Mexico’s Leonardo Reyes in four-rounds of bantamweight action.

Rounding out the night of fights is unbeaten super featherweight Titus Williams taking on once-beaten Philadelphia-native Antonio Dubose in a six-round showdown and unbeaten lightweight Jeffrey Torrestaking on Joseph Serrano in a four-round bout between Philadelphia prospects.

A two-time amateur National Champion fighting out of Wilmington, Delaware, Davis turned pro in 2014 after a stellar amateur career. The 21-year-old delivered wins in his first 10 starts before dropping a competitive contest to then unbeaten Junior Castillo in April. A two-time Pennsylvania Golden Gloves champion, Davis fights in Philadelphia for the first time as a pro when he takes on the 28-year-old Ozan from Mendoza, Argentina.

Unbeaten and fighting out of Philadelphia, Santiago looks for his third victory of 2016 when he enters the ring on November 12. A pro since 2014, the 20-year-old Santiago fights in his home city for the sixth time in his short career. Alvarez has won three eight-round bouts in a row and looks to be victorious again when he faces the experienced Tapia out of Mendoza, Argentina.

Amir Khan Says It Would be an Honor to Fight Manny Pacquiao

Amir Khan says it would be an ‘honour’ to fight Manny Pacquiao after the Filipino superstar said he would be open to the matchup.

Eight-weight champion Pacquiao was speaking ahead of his eagerly anticipated world title clash with Jessie Vargas this Saturday night, exclusively live on BoxNation.

And despite stating that Khan was a ‘friend’ he hinted a future clash would be something that he would be willing to make happen, prompting the Bolton boxer to state his readiness to do battle.

“Manny is great fighter and one of the best around,” Khan told BoxNation.

“It would be an honour to share the ring with him and would be a very entertaining fight for the fans. I know Manny well and he is a friend of mine but sometimes you have to put that to the side as boxers.

“It’s important for my hand to fully heal after my operation but it’s feeling good and I want to make the biggest fights possible as soon as it’s 100% – no matter who it’s against,” he said.

29-year-old Khan also believes that despite his losses to Floyd Mayweather and Juan Manuel Marquez, Pacquiao is still a very dangerous opponent to go in against.

“Manny is still one of the top welterweights in the world. He’s got great speed, power and creates good angles. I think our two styles mix well and would make for an edge-of-the-seat sort of fight,” said Khan.

“There are definitely some things I can take advantage of against him and I believe being the younger and more youthful fighter would help.

“We’re both all-action fighters and like to attack so it would be a really intriguing fight,” he said.
37-year-old Pacquiao has put his political responsibilities on hold as a senator in the Philippines as he looks to claim another world title this weekend against WBO champion Vargas.

Khan feels that Pacquiao will have too much for the American and is tipping his old stablemate to do the business at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas.

“I think Manny’s movement and style will be too much for Vargas to handle,” said Khan.

“He’s going to be too quick and elusive and I expect him to win on points. He seems very focused on this fight because he knows how important it is to win it.

“Beating Vargas and winning a world title will help set up more big fights and prove he still has a lot to give,” he said.

Taras “The Real Deal Shelestyuk, Xolisani Ndongeni,and Ruben Villa all remained undefeated this past Friday night at the Omega Events Center in Corona, California.

Shelestyuk (15-0, 9 KOs), the 2012 Olympic Games Bronze Medalist for Ukraine, was victorious by the scores of 96-93 twice and 95-94. Despite a gutsy, gritty performance, Herrera (15-4-1, 8 KOs), of Chicago, IL., had a 3-fight winning streak end. There were no knockdowns.

Southpaw Shelestyuk, who entered the ring ranked No. 9 in the WBO and No. 13 in the WBA, turned back a determined bid by Herrera to win, despite getting docked a point for excessive holding in the fifth round.

“It was a tough fight,” stated Shelestyuk. “He is a tough fighter; he is slow, but he worked well. In the first round, I did well but my legs went on me. I think it was because I did not sleep well.
“After five rounds, I started to find my rhythm. I started boxing him. I made some mistakes in there like pulling straight back. This fight will make me better. Like I said, he was tough but nothing special. When my legs went, I started to work inside. I beat him good in the last round and if there was 30 seconds more, I could have stopped him.

“I am looking forward to being more active in 2017. I will take two or three weeks off and be right back in the gym.”

“The Truth” hurts, and Herrera had more than his fair share of moments in a tight fight. Herrera, a professional since December 2009, figured to be a legitimate test for Shelestyuk, and he was. But Taras was more active, (landing 169 of 689 punches, compared to Herrera’s 130 of 460). Each fighter connected 28 percent of the time.

Herrera, who had defeated undefeated prospects in four of his previous nine fights, was not happy with the verdict. “It was a good fight. There is not much that I can say. I thought it was closer than the scores indicated. I had fun in there, and I give him credit. He was everything I expected. He is a smart fighter.”

“I would love to be a test dummy for all these young prospects. I thought it could have been a draw, but the people who saw it on TV can have their opinion.”

Shelestyuk is co-promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing

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Boxing Insider Notebook: Pacquiao, Ortiz, Garcia, Scott, Russell, Atlantic City Boxing, and more…

Posted on 10/19/2016

Boxing Insider Notebook: Pacquiao, Ortiz, Scott, Russell, Atlantic City Boxing, and more…
By: William Holmes

The following is the Boxing Insider notebook for the week of October 11th to October 18th, covering the comings and goings in the sport of boxing that you might have missed.

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Pacquiao vs. Vargas Tickets Available Online

Remaining tickets to the world championship fight between boxing’s only eight-division world champion and the reigning Fighter of the Decade, Senator MANNY “Pacman” PACQUIAO (58-6-2, 38 KOs), from General Santos City, Philippines, and defending World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight champion JESSIE VARGAS (27-1, 10 KOs), from Las Vegas, can be purchased online at http://www.unlvtickets.com/, at UNLVtickets Outlet Town Square Las Vegas and La Bonita Supermarkets and charged by phone call 702-739-FANS (3267) or 866-388-FANS (3267). The Thomas & Mack Center box office will reopen on Thursday. The Thomas & Mack Center on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, is playing host to the third and final presidential debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump on Wednesday.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with MP Promotions and Wynn Las Vegas, the Pacquiao vs. Vargas world championship event will take place on Saturday, November 5, at the Thomas & Mack Center. Remaining tickets are priced at $1,000, $700, $500, $300, $100 and $50, not including applicable service fees.

“Our ticket sales are great with Las Vegas fighters on this card in significant world championship fights. Fans in Las Vegas can still buy their tickets online or by phone,” said Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. “And to Mr. Trump’s chagrin, the only drug testing taking place at Thomas & Mack, between now and November 5, will be the ones given by the Nevada State Athletic Commission to the fighters on the Pacquiao – Vargas card.”

Pacquiao vs. Vargas, and its three co-main event world title fights, will be produced and distributed live by Top Rank® Pay-Per-View, beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT, and will be available on all conventional platforms, including all major cable and satellite systems, as well as Top Rank’s digital
distribution via www.TopRank.tv and mobile devices.

Gary Russell, Jr. Wants to Set the Record Straight

“This is why I don’t like doing interviews because my comments during interviews get manipulated and twisted around. I’ve been sitting back just to see how far this ridiculous article will go” said frustrated WBC World Featherweight Champion Gary Russell, Jr.

Recently, Gary Russell, Jr. did an interview with RingTV.com to promote his September 13th Team Russell All-Star Amateur Boxing show in Maryland. The article was supposed to highlight the work that brothers of Team Russell are doing to mentor young gifted amateur boxers across the country.

Instead, the entire article had a negative undertone that took shots at Russell’s advisor Al Haymon.

Russell felt the need to address the article, starting with the title “Gary Russell Jr. Pushes for Higher Purse” is not true. Russell said, “Yes, in another three years I could end my career so being smart financially is important. But, again, that has nothing to do with Al Haymon”.

It is no secret that before Russell fought Patrick Hyland this past April, he got cut during sparring which is why he had not been in the ring. Russell said, “There was no need, is no need to reference other professional athletes and their careers. As fighters, we all have a mutual respect for not getting involved in one another’s business affairs. I felt like my platform was used as a pawn to promote negativity with Al and among other Haymon fighters”.

The article also said, “Russell was careful to make sure his comments weren’t construed as criticism of Haymon” This was apparently an obvious hidden agenda to create tension within the household. “My father taught us; real men say what is on their mind, use real words, no reason to tip-toe around. The essence our character is loyalty and truth. I’m offended at how my words were twisted to assassinate someone’s character; this goes against all my families beliefs. Unless RingTV.com paid me, I would never do another interview with them” said Russell.

Russell closed by saying, ”Team Russell’s relationship goes beyond just boxing with Al; he is family. We’ve been more than happy with the decisions made collectively regarding the direction of my professional career. We value his opinion and input. Let me be very clear, no one within the Team Russell circle would ever speak negatively about Al in any way – family business stays in-house.”

Malik Scott to Face Luis Ortiz

World ranked heavyweight contender MALIK SCOTT, (38-2-1, 13 KO’s), is headed to the world’s foremost tourist destination, Monte Carlo, on Saturday, November 12 to face feared, undefeated and #1 ranked “King Kong” LUIS ORTIZ, (25-0, 22 KO’s) at the Salle des Etoiles for the vacant World Boxing Association Inter-Continental Heavyweight Title.

“This is the fight I wanted, I picked him, “said Scott. “I told my promoter Tom Brown one of the three, either Anthony Joshua, David Haye or Luis Ortiz.”

“After Ortiz beat Bryant Jennings the media starting talking about his invincibility and that he was the most feared heavyweight and I immediately wanted to fight him. There’s no such thing as unbeatable and I welcome the challenge to prove it.”

“If I’m on my game on November 12, I’ll shut him out. He’s going to gas out early and I’ll put on a boxing clinic,” continued Scott. “Ortiz is my pathway towards a world title opportunity, this is my time to shine and slay ‘King Kong’.”

“Because of his rep this fight will get a lot of international attention and I’ll be looking for full credit when I beat him, no excuses.”

A native of Philadelphia, now residing in Los Angeles, Scott fights under the Sherman Oaks’ based TGB Promotions’ banner.

“Malik has wanted another big fight and this opportunity to face Ortiz comes at the right time,” said TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions. “Malik is fearless and isn’t at all intimidated by Ortiz’s rep, he’s fought or sparred every notable heavyweight over the last fifteen years.”

Known as a true road warrior of the sport, last October Scott traveled to Orlando, Florida winning a dominant ten round decision over former world title challenger Tony Thompson. The previous October, Scott defeated Alex Leapai, also a former world title challenger in Australia.

The heavy-handed Ortiz has stopped his last four opponents, most recently the aforementioned Tony Thompson in the sixth round on March 5, 2016. Prior to that Ortiz brutally stopped former world title challenger Bryant Jennings in the seventh round on December 19, 2015.

Scott vs. Ortiz is presented by Matchroom Boxing in association with TGB Promotions and will be telecast LIVE in the UK on Sky Sports.

Greg Cohen Promotions Signs Rico Mueller

Greg Cohen of Greg Cohen Promotions proudly announces the signing of IBF #10-rated welterweight contender Rico Mueller of Germany.

Already the current IBO Inter-Continental Welterweight Champion, Mueller (20-1-1, 14 KOs) is scheduled to face IBF #3 Jeff Horn on October 21 at the Sleeman Sports Complex in Queensland, Australia, in an eliminator for the IBF’s #2 contender position.

With current champion Kell Brook rumored to be moving up in weight, if 28-year-old Mueller is victorious against Horn, he would likely find himself in line to fight top contender Errol Spence Jr., for the vacant world championship, since they would be rated #1 and #2 respectively.

“Big things are happening in my career and I need the right representation to help guide my career,” said Mueller. “Greg Cohen Promotions has a long history of moving their fighters to the championship level and I’m happy to be onboard.”

Cohen says he’s happy to be adding an international talent like Mueller to his promotional roster.
“Boxing has obviously undergone a shift, with a large percentage of its talent now located in Europe. I’m honored and happy that Rico recognized my company for its focus on world talent and I will work hard to put him in the big fights. He’s an excellent fighter with the right work ethic to become world champion.”

Mueller will be in tough against Horn, who stopped one of the most dangerous fighters in boxing, former multi world champion Randall Bailey, in his last ring appearance.

“Rico is tough and he knows the challenge in front of him,” said Cohen, “but he’s a tremendous talent and I see him rolling along to an impressive victory. After that, it’ll be a world title shot against Kell Brook or Errol Spence and a shot at boxing stardom. I’m happy to be a part of this huge time in his career.”

Undefeated World Champion Danny Garcia to Fight in Philadelphia on November 12th

Undefeated welterweight world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia (32-0, 18 KOs) will make his first appearance in his native Philadelphia since 2010 as he takes on Colombia’s Samuel Vargas (25-2-1, 13 KOs) in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on Spike Saturday, November 12 from Temple University’s Liacouras Center. The bout will be Garcia’s final hurdle before a planned massive showdown with unbeaten champion Keith “One Time” Thurman scheduled for the first quarter of 2017.

In keeping with his desire to give back to the community, Garcia is teaming up with Philabundance, the region’s largest hunger relief organization, to arrange a regional food drive, collecting most-needed items, such as tuna and vegetables. Fans are being encouraged to drop off canned goods at the Liacouras Center (1776 N Broad St) and the DSG Boxing Gym (3731 Jasper St). Additionally, $10 from each ticket sold will be donated and provide 20 meals per ticket for people in need. More information on these efforts and how you can get involved will be announced shortly.

Garcia, a two-division world champion, will battle Vargas in a 10-round non-title bout in his first fight since his exciting win over Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero in January. Garcia insisted on staging the fight in his hometown and using the event as a vehicle to raise awareness and money for the less fortunate in the area.

“My dad and I wanted to get one more fight in before the end of the year and there was no doubt in my mind it had to be in Philadelphia,” said Garcia. “My team got it done and it’s a great feeling to fight at home over the holidays. I’m excited to use this opportunity to give back to the community and put on a show on November 12. This city means everything to me. I hope everyone comes out, but shows up with cans of food too. I’m gearing up for a big fight with Keith Thurman next year that’s going to be a can’t miss event. First, I’m going to fight for my city on November 12.”

“Things happen when you work hard and I’m so excited about this opportunity,” said Vargas. “Garcia is a great fighter and he cleaned out the 140-pound division and now he is champion at 147. A win would change my life and everyone around me. This is my time. I can’t fail. This is going to be a Rocky story in Rocky’s town.”

Televised coverage on Spike begins at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT and features undefeated rising star Jarrett Hurd (18-0, 12 KOs) in a 12-round bout against once-beaten super welterweight contender Jorge Cota (25-1, 22 KOs) and former world champion Javier Fortuna (30-1-1, 22 KOs) battling undefeated Omar Douglas (17-0, 12 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight bout.

“This win will put me one step closer towards winning a world title,” said Hurd. “The win over Oscar Molina was a big opportunity that has opened a lot of doors and was a great experience. Cota is a tough veteran with a high knockout rate. He is a little wild and I have to look out for that. I’m going to go out there to land nice shots and stick to my game plan.”

“I’m looking forward to this opportunity to fight a good undefeated fighter,” said Cota. “I know that I have the power and skills to beat anybody out there. I’m going to leave it all in the ring and get the victory on November 12.”

“I’m only thinking about winning heading into this fight,” said Fortuna. “Douglas is a good fighter who moves very well. I’m looking forward to this challenge on November 12. I will be a world champion once again.”

“This is the type of fight that I need if I am going to be a champion,” said Douglas. “I plan on putting on a crowd pleasing performance. Fortuna is a decent fighter and I’m going to have to break him down. He is good for four or five rounds but then he slows down. I’m going to set him up to take him out in the later rounds.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DSG Promotions and King’s Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $75, $50 and $35 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit www.LiacourasCenter.com/events or call 800-298-4200.

Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Update

Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame is proud to announce that the ACBHOF Esteemed Nomination Committee has completed the nomination and voting process. The names of all luminaries, which will be inducted into the First Charter Class of the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame, will be made at a later date in November. This Historic group of Inductees is comprised of Boxers, Trainers, Promoters, Managers, Matchmakers, Historians, Special Contributors, and Posthumous individuals. All have help to make Atlantic City a top boxing destination in the U.S.A.

The ACBHOF founder & president Ray McCline will announce this exceptional group of Inductees via an official press release in mid November to the general public. Mr. McCline states; “My team and I are looking forward revealing the names of the inductees which have had a significant impact on Atlantic City’s rich boxing history, during their respective careers”.

“There are so many potential inductees to consider, yet due to the fact that this is our first class, the selection process had to be streamlined. We feel that Atlantic City was, and will continue to be a major player in the future of this great sport. In the future we will be able to accommodate many more great fighters and special contributors, for years to come.”

The future date and venue of the 2017 Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame induction weekend will be forthcoming. Those interested in being a sponsor, advertisement and/or seeking vending opportunities during the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame 2017 Induction Weekend, are encouraged to contact us at:

Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame
P.O. Box #7221
Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401 USA
(P) 609.432.8979
(E) [email protected]

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/acbhof/

Website:
www.acbhof.com

TGB Promotions’ Tom Brown to be Inducted Into the California Boxing Hall of Fame

TGB Promotions’ President TOM BROWN will be inducted into the California Boxing Hall of Fame on Saturday, October 22 at the Sportsmen’s Lodge Events Center in Studio City, California.

“Having been a matchmaker and promoter for over 25 years based in the Los Angeles area this accolade means a tremendous amount to me,” said Brown. “I’ve always considered it a priority through my work to act in the best interest of the sport and this induction by my peers is a great honor.”

Other inductees at the ceremonies include Unified Middleweight World Champion Gennady “GGG” Golovkin and his longtime trainer Abel Sanchez. Also being inducted are former world champion Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero, broadcaster and renowned trainer Teddy Atlas and former world champions Carlos “Famoso” Hernandez and Louis Espinoza and world ranked contender Shibata Flores. Highly respected father and son referees Raul Caiz Sr. and Raul Caiz Jr. will also be inducted.

Tickets for the California Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony can be purchased for $70 through Don Fraser at (818) 761-4887. The ceremony including lunch starts at 11:00 a.m. in the Empire Room.
The Sportsmen’s Lodge Events Center is located at 12833 Ventura Blvd. in Studio City.

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Boxing Insider Notebook: Pacquiao, Mayweather, Bute, Guerreo, Harrison, LaManna, and more..

Posted on 08/16/2016

Boxing Insider Notebook: Pacquiao, Mayweather, Bute, Guerreo, Harrison, LaManna, and more..
By: William Holmes

The following is the Boxing Insider notebook for the week of August 9th to August 16th, covering the comings and goings in the sport of boxing that you might have missed.

Pacquiao vs. Vargas Official for November 5th

Manny Pacquiao has made it official; he will be fighting Jessie Vargas on November 5th at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Bob Arum confirmed the fight announcement to ESPN after meeting with Pacquiao and Michael Koncz in the Philippines to go over the details.

Terence Crawford was in the running to be Pacquiao’s next opponent, but Vargas won out despite being the lesser draw.

Vargas is coming off of a ninth round knockout of Sadam Ali.

TMZ Sports Reports One of Floyd Mayweather’s Bodyguards Accused of Battery

One of Floyd Mayweather’s gigantic bodyguards has been accused of roughing up a restaurant patron during a heated altercation over the weekend — and it all culminated in a citizen’s arrest.

TMZ Sports has learned … Mayweather and his security team hit up Hot N Juicy Crawfish in Vegas on Sunday afternoon.

Sources tell them … a verbal altercation broke out between Mayweather’s team and a male/female couple at a nearby table, who were teasing Floyd that they were Pacquiao fans.

We’re told things escalated when the couple whipped out their cell phones and began shooting video of Floyd’s crew.

The couple claims a bodyguard, who goes by the name Big Pat, grabbed their phone away and wouldn’t give it back … and pushed the man in the process.

The Henderson PD confirms they were called to the scene and the alleged victim told them he wanted to make a citizen’s arrest … which essentially means he wants to press charges for battery.

Cops are investigating. Big Pat has not been charged with a crime and Mayweather’s camp is not commenting.

Read More at http://www.tmz.com/2016/08/10/floyd-mayweather-bodyguard-battery-citizens-arrest/

Bute Claims He’s the Victim of a Tainted Supplement

Former world champion Lucian Bute learned late yesterday afternoon that the test of his “B” sample was positive, as was his “A” sample, which was no surprise and these findings were welcomed by Lucian and his team.

When the initial announcement of the positive result revealed Ostarine, Lucian didn’t understand what could have happened, hence his disbelief of the situation yet hope regarding test results of his sample “B”. At that time it was announced extensive research would be conducted to find out what really happened. Today, more than ever, Lucian says he never knowingly used illegal products during his illustrious career in professional boxing.

To assist in his search for truth, Lucian retained the services of a Los Angeles-based lawyer, Howard Jacobs, who requested all nutritious supplement products used by Bute during in his training camp for the fight against Badou Jack.

KorvalLabs, an accredited laboratory in California specializing in sport, was mandated to carry out all of the analyzes, and results were obtained Monday.

However, analysis of a product named Dynamita recovery, made by Pharmagenic laboratory in San Diego, California, contained traces of contamination, Ostarine.

The supplement formula prescribed by physical trainer Angel Heredia (see photos) had to be perfectly free of all illegal substances in its composition, meaning, unfortunately, it had been contaminated during preparation of this supplement at the Pharmagenic laboratory.

Responsibility for the detection of Ostarine in Bute’s tests was totally up to Pharmagenic laboratory in San Diego. Bute and his lawyer intend to pursue legal proceedings against the laboratory that has caused irreparable harm to the integrity and reputation of the former IBF super middleweight champion.

Details of the investigation were forwarded to the athletic commission in Washington DC, which will therefore be inviting Bute to enable representations and explanations of what happened before it takes a decision.

Meanwhile, Lucian Bute is in training at the gym of the Grant brothers regularly, does not put his career in question and is determined to take all means to become world champion in his division once the details of this case are fully set.

Robert Guerrero Press Conference Quotes

Former multiple division world champion Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero (33-4-1, 18 KOs) will bring his exciting style to the ring as he looks to put on a show when he he headlines Premier Boxing Champions on Spike against Argentine slugger David Emanuel Peralta (25-2-1, 14 KOs) Saturday, August 27 from the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif.

Guerrero, along with his trainer and father Ruben Guerrero, have put together another successful camp in the Bay Area as Robert looks to earn another opportunity at the top fighters in the sport. Here is what Guerrero had to say about his matchup, training camp and more:

On fighting in a special weekend edition of MMA and Boxing on Spike…

“It’s going to be a great weekend of fights on Spike. On Friday, you got top level MMA fighters like Benson Henderson throwing down. He’s always giving the fans their money’s worth. On Saturday, you got Alfredo Angulo and myself, who always bring excitement to the ring. We’re never in boring fights. All in all, there’s going to be a lot of action packed fights that weekend. Everyone should be tuning in that’s for sure.”

On his recent training camp…

“There’s been a lot of hard work that’s been put into this recent training camp. My dad and I have been grinding daily to get ready for this fight. It’s been a productive camp though. I got a lot of rounds sparring with top guys. I’m in tip top shape and ready to go.”

On facing tough Argentine David Emanuel Peralta…

“Anytime you’re facing a fighter from Argentina you know you’re in for a tough fight. Peralta knows this is his chance to make a name for himself so I know he’s coming with his very best. He’s had a lot of time to prepare for this fight but I’ll be well prepared for anything he brings. He’s going to realize once he’s in the ring with me that I’m not some washed up fighter like some may think. I got plenty of fight left in me and Peralta will find out what I’m all about on August 27th.”

On the importance of coming out victorious..

“It’s very important that I win this fight at all cost. The welterweight division has plenty of good fighters that I want to get in the ring with. So it’s a must that I win this fight. I’m not taking Peralta lightly. I’m coming to win and win impressively.”

On fighting in Anaheim at the Honda Center…

“Anytime you’re fighting in Southern California, you know the fans are going to be passionate about the fights. They love to see a lot of action and that’s exactly what they’ll see when I step in the ring. The Honda Center is a top level venue where the fans will all have a great seat. I’m looking forward to fighting in front of the SoCal fans once again.”

Greg Cohen Promotions Signs Samuel Clarkson

Greg Cohen Promotions proudly announces the signing of red-hot light heavyweight contender Samuel “Main Event” Clarkson to a co-promotional agreement, along with Ronson Frank’s Uprising Promotions LLC.
25-year-old Clarkson (17-3, 11 KOs), from Cedar Hill, Texas, had a sensational year in 2015, scoring five wins, including two impressive ShoBox: The New Generation-televised victories over then 15-1 Lavarn Harvell (TKO 2) and then 13-1 Jerry Odom (TKO 3).

Clarkson also beat former world title challenger Cedric Agnew (then 27-1) by decision on DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing.

Trained by his father, Samuel Sr., since starting in boxing at age 17, the southpaw Clarkson went 69-9 as an amateur, winning the 2009 National PAL Amateur Championship and a pair of Texas Golden Gloves State Championships.

“It’s a blessing,” said Clarkson of the signing. “We sat down and talked to Greg Cohen about the opportunities he could offer me and my family in the boxing business and I’m looking forward to a very bright future.”

Clarkson says his streak of impressive victories started when he began to focus on more than his punching power.

“In my amateur days, I had a lot of knockouts,” he explained. “I knocked out everybody, but then in the pros I started to focus more on my boxing skills. I learned you can’t just go in there and swing hard punches and knock everybody out. I dissect my opponents now before getting them out of there. I pick them apart and then, when I see somebody hurt, I go in for the kill. That’s the biggest change in me.”

LaManna and Hernandez-Harrison Set to Battle September 15th

Welterweights Thomas LaManna and Dusty Hernandez-Harrison will square off in a scheduled 10-round bout for the vacant USBA Welterweight title on Thursday, Sept. 15, in a highly anticipated showdown at the 2300 Arena. The card is promoted by Final Forum Boxing, Peltz Boxing Promotions & GH3 Promotions and will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network.

“This is the kind of fight boxing needs at this juncture,” said Hall-of-Fame promoter and matchmaker J Russell Peltz. “We have two young prospects at the same level meeting in a logical location–New Jersey against Washington, D.C. in Philadelphia. Boxing needs more fights like this in this kind of setting. This is the best fight for each of these fighters at this point of their careers.”

The wick for this explosive fight was lit several years ago when LaManna and Hernandez-Harrison engaged in heated sparring sessions which forged the rivalry for the inevitable bout.

LaManna, 24, of Millville, NJ, has a record of 21-1, 9 K0s. He has been fighting regularly on the Boardwalk in Atlantic City, NJ, since turning pro in 2011. He won his first 16 bouts, highlighted by wins over Ashandi Gibbs, of Tampa, FL, and Jamaal Davis, of Philadelphia. Since suffering his only loss to world-ranked middleweight Antoine Douglas, of Burke, VA, last year in a ShoBox-televised contest, LaManna moved back down to welterweight and has won five matches in a row. In his last fight July 22 at the Claridge in Atlantic City, Lamanna, knocked out Engleberto Valenzuela, of Mexico, in the first round.

“I’ve been looking forward to this fight for a long time,” said LaManna. “Our careers have run parallel. Dusty will bring plenty of fans to support him that night and the same goes for me. It’s an intriguing match for both of us and it’s in a natural setting where it belongs.”

Hernandez-Harrison, 22, of Washington, DC, is 29-0-1, 21K0s. He has been touted as the city’s “best boxing prospect since Sugar Ray Leonard” by the Washington Magazine.

He began fighting at the age of 6 in a boxing exhibition at the Ritz Nightclub in Northwest D.C. and became a sanctioned amateur at the age of 8.

Hernandez-Harrison compiled an amateur record of 167-30, winning Ringside World Championships, National Silver Gloves Championships and three consecutive National Golden Gloves Championships from 2007 to 2009. He turned pro in 2011 at the age of 17 in Mississippi, the youngest licensed pro boxer at the time.

Under the promotional banner of Roc Nation, Hernandez-Harrison has wins over Tim Witherspoon, Jr., of Philadelphia, Tommy Rainone, of New York, and Michael Clark, of Columbus, OH. His fights have been televised by ESPN, Fox Sports 1 and BET and he recently entered into agreements with FILA and GEICO to be a brand ambassador, the only professional boxer to represent each prestigious company.

“This is a big opportunity for both of us,” said Hernandez-Harrison “The winner will get a Top 15 world ranking by the IBF and that’s what this is about. I have known Thomas for a long time, but that all goes out the window when we step into the ring.

Slovenia Braces For Big WBF Convention Event

Slovenia is beginning to look forward to the upcoming World Boxing Federation (WBF) World Convention in Maribor (Sept. 22 – 25) in a big way.

As delegates from all over the world will be making their way to the small, but sports-crazy country, champions past and present, headed by local icon Jan Zaveck (Dejan Zavec), former world Light Heavyweight champion Donny “Golden Boy” Lalonde of Canada and first and foremost Italian superstar and all-time great Nino Benvenuti, to name but a few, have confirmed their presence at Maribor.

Meanwhile, RTV Slovenija national television have announced to not just cover the WBF Championship Boxing Night on the Saturday (Sept. 24), but also broadcast the Official Opening Ceremony of the WBF World Convention.

As if to underline the importance of the occasion, several honoraries will attend, among them Mr. Andrej Fistravec, mayor of Maribor, Mr. Bogdan Gabrovec and Mr. Tomaz Barada, President and Vice President of the National Slovenian Olympic Committee respectively.

Don’t miss what shapes up to be the biggest event in the history of the World Boxing Federation, dating back to its founding in 1988 in the USA, by registering today. Click here http://worldboxingfederation.net/articles/WBF-Convention-2016.pdf for the Registration Form.

Karim Mayfield Plans Big Surprise for Eyubov

If the team behind Bakhtiyar Eyubov think his next fight will be another easy showcase for their unbeaten welterweight, his opponent, Karim Mayfield has a message.

“He’s a very strong guy, but I’m more experienced than he is for sure,” said Mayfield. “He comes out looking for the first-round knockout by swinging with everything he’s got and he’s going to find it doesn’t work on me.”

Mayfield (19-3-1, 11 KOs), of San Francisco, will take on Kazakhstan’s Eyubov (10-0, 10 KOs) in the 10-round opening fight on ShoBox: The New Generation® on Friday, Aug. 19, live on SHOWTIME® (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Rhinos Stadium in Rochester, N.Y.

In the 10-round main event, power-punching Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller (17-0-1, 15 KOs) will take on smooth veteran Fred Kassi (18-5-1, 10 KOs) for the NABO Heavyweight Title. In the 10-round co-featured bout, top prospect Mason Menard (31-1, 23 KOs) will face tough Bahodir Mamadjonov (19-2, 11 KOs) in a 10-round battle for the NABO Lightweight Title. Also featured is WBO NABO Bantamweight Champion Antonio Nieves (16-0-1, 8 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio, defending his title against Alejandro “Peque” Santiago (11-2-1, 3 KOs), of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico.

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