TERRIBLE!! IF Dillian Whyte DOES NOT receive a heavyweight title fight in 2019

It will be terrible if Dillian Whyte does not receive a heavyweight title fight in 2019.

Sure, everyone talks about facing ‘The Champ’ and how they can and will beat ‘The Champ’ whenever, if ever they meet. Some fighters receive a title fight and make a strong account for themselves, while others actually get the job done by walking out the arena as the ‘New Champ.’ However, there are those fighters that talk their way into the biggest fight possible and do absolutely nothing.

That is simply not the case with 30-year-old, Jamaican-born, U.K. native Dillian Whyte (25-1, 18 KOs).

When Dillian Whyte challenged Anthony Joshua in 2015, it was a huge deal in Britain, as you had two undefeated heavyweight prospects looking to make the transition from prospect to eventual world champion. It was an exciting fight filled with tremendous action, but in the end, it was Joshua, not Whyte, who had his hands raised in victory.

As a competitor, of course Whyte would have loved a second crack at Joshua, but as good as the fight was, it didn’t warrant a rematch. Joshua went on to unify the IBF/WBA/WBO and IBO heavyweight titles, as he has a lengthy list of guys that say they want to fight him, including unbeaten WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder.

In the last three years, while everyone is clamoring JOSHUA vs. WILDER fight (which that demand has quieted down significantly with the return of Tyson Fury), which heavyweight has undoubtedly and clearly emerged as the consensus No. 1 contender?

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It’s safe to say that Dillian Whyte has earned his chance to compete in his first career world heavyweight championship fight having compiled a 9-0, 5 KO record since losing to Joshua. Whyte has developed into a better overall boxer, puncher, and is entering the peak of his career. The opponents that he has defeated – Dereck Chisora (twice), former heavyweight champions Joseph Parker, Lucas Browne, and Robert Helenius – each brought some sort of credibility into the ring. Whyte has been the more active fighter than other top-ranked heavyweights, although ‘Big Baby’ Miller and Bryant Jennings (both active) are also making strong cases for earning a heavyweight title shot as well.

At this point, however, Whyte is the clearer choice, as he is the bigger fight for Joshua at this point. Most likely, WILDER vs. FURY II will happen. Therefore, since Joshua has April 13, at Wembley Stadium available on his fight-schedule for next year, Whyte should be granted the chance to win his first career heavyweight title against the man that handed him his only professional defeat. Joshua and Whyte do have a storyline dating back to their amateur days. Whyte reportedly beat Joshua back when, but it was Joshua who represented London and won Olympic Gold at the 2012 London Games in the super-heavyweight category.

JOSHUA vs. WHYTE II will be the biggest heavyweight championship fight since Lennox Lewis defended WBC title against Frank Bruno. JOSHUA vs. WHYTE II could break all records for an all-British world heavyweight title fight.

Credit to Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing for trying his best to lure Wilder into a WBC title defense against Whyte in London earlier this year, but Wilder instead held-out for an even bigger fight with Tyson Fury that was broadcast on SHOWTIME Pay-Per-View here in U.S.

Never before has two British boxers fought for the Undisputed World Heavyweight Championship and Hearn believed, he truly believed that Whyte would have beaten Wilder for that WBC title if the fight was staged in the U.K. It’s nice to dream, right?

The next-best thing for Hearn to do is to continue to do right by his fighters, as he promotes both Joshua and Whyte, to allow them to fight one another like they did before. It’s another big fight for Joshua, who will be appearing in is eighth world heavyweight championship fight in what will be 23^rd professional bout.  Whyte will finally have his first career heavyweight title fight.

But, of course, anything can happen in boxing and plans can change on any given notice.

Charlos leave Barclays Center disappointed; Jermall wins, but Jermell loses world title!!

The Charlo twins were each showcased in a co-main event that was part of a PBC on FOX tripleheader, also featuring heavyweight Dominic Breazeale live from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Saturday. While Jermall (28-0, 21 KOs) retained his interim WBC middleweight championship having defeated Matt Korobov (27-2, 13 KOs), his brother Jermell (31-1, 15 KOs) lost his WBC 154-lb. title in a stunning upset to Tony Harrison (28-2, 21 KOs) in front of more than 9,100 in attendance.

While a lot of people may disagree with the decision and actually thought Jermell won when the scores of 115-113 (twice) and 116-112 and were announced, there was no doubt in the challenger’s mind that he had upset the champion.

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“I dictated the pace,” Harrison said. “That’s what champions do. He wound up for big shots and I kept my defense tight. All we worked on was defense. I kept my composure and I did what champions do. I’m blessed. I told y’all, my family, everyone. He’s a great champion. I’ve seen him in the gym. He’s a hell of a champion. I used my ring generalship.”

Harrison did fight a defensive fight. Harrison did make Jermell miss. Harrison made Charlo chase after him for twelve rounds. But he did not box well enough to become the new WBC 154-lb. champion.

“They took that fight from me” Jermell said. “I was pressing the action. He didn’t win that fight. I’m going to get my belts back.”

Harrison appears to be willing to give Jermell a rematch soon, which would already give 2019 three highly anticipated rematches to look forward to: WILDER vs. FURY II, ALVAREZ vs. KOVALEV II, JOSHUA vs. WHYTE II, and now CHARLO vs. HARRISON II.

“Jermell – you gave me a shot – I’ll give you a rematch,” Harrison said.

The goal was for Jermell to defeat Harrison and move ahead into a 154-lb. unification but with WBA/IBF and IBO champion Jared ‘Swift’ Hurd. The fight is still possible, but Jermell Charlo must get his belt back first.

“I still want Jarrett Hurd,” Charlo said. “I know my brother knows I won that fight. I might have given away a few rounds, but I won that fight.”

Many great fighters have responded well following a shocking defeat. Many may have felt Charlo won, but that will not change the reality that Harrison was awarded the victory. Let’s see how Jermell can refocus and regroup following such a shocking loss.

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Jermall Charlo was deeply upset watching his twin brother lose a decision the way he did, but he did not let anything distract him from performing well enough to defeat former Russian Olympian and title challenger Matt Korobov in the main event slot.

Charlo was supposed to have fought Willie Monroe, but he pulled out because of a failed drug exam under the WBC Clean Boxing Program. Korobov, who was already scheduled to be on the show anyway, was bumped-up to the main event slot and performed extremely well. Better than anyone expected.

“I used everything that happened tonight as motivation in the 12th round,” Jermall Charlo said. “I haven’t been that far in a fight in a couple of years. It felt good to be in there, get hit and bang with someone. He was an experienced guy who will make me better.”

Charlo was definitely tested against another experienced boxer who was technically sound and tough, but in the end the judges had Charlo ahead 119-108 and 116-112 (twice).

“I had fun in there with an opponent like that,” Charlo said. “I got the win and that’s the main thing. I still feel I’m the best in the world. I just need to prove it to the rest of the world.”

The victory allows Jermall to remain in the conversation about potential fights with either No. 1-ranked Gennady Golovkin, the former longtime WBC/WBA and IBF/IBO middleweight champion who is tied for the most consecutive title defenses of the 160-lb. titles with Bernard Hopkins (20). GGG lost his middleweight titles in 2018 after he was 1) stripped of the IBF title and 2) lost the WBC/WBA crowns in a rematch with Canelo Alvarez in September.

There is also the possibility of Jermall facing Canelo, which would be another tremendous opportunity for Charlo, but the focus will be helping his twin regain his championship somehow.

“I felt like Jermell made his fight harder than it was,”Jermall said. “I had a really tough opponent, but he wasn’t better than me. There was a lot on my mind in the ring.”

Korobov believed that he actually performed well enough to win and should have been awarded the decision and his first career world title.

“I thought that I won the fight,” Korobov said. “It was definitely a fight that could have gone either way, but I believe the people know that I won.  I’m the most avoided fighter in boxing and I showed why tonight. I hope this performance will get me another title fight.”

Photo Credit: Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions

 

 

 

 

Breazeale KOs Negron in 9, challenges Wilder next!

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Former U.S. National Amateur Champion, U.S. Olympian, and #1.-ranked WBC contender Dominic Breazeale (20-1. 18 KOs) returned following a 13-month layoff to audition for a shot against WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, who was in attendance at ringside.

“I’m next in line for Deontay Wilder, I’m coming for him. I’ve been waiting for him and I did what I had to do. I’m ready for him now.

On December 1, at the STAPLES Center in L.A., Wilder successfully defended his WBC title for the eighth time since winning it four years ago when he nearly KO’d Tyson Fury in the final round to escape with a draw. In the event Wilder vs. Fury II isn’t made, Wilder may face Breazeale next.

Having lost to Anthony Joshua for the IBF heavyweight championship in June 2016, Breazeale, winner of his last three fights by KO, scored a spectacular one-punch knockout of Carlos Negron (20-2, 16 KOs) of Puerto Rico at 1:37 seconds  of the ninth round.

“I was setting up that right hand all night,” Brezeale said. “Since the third round I noticed he dropped his left hand when he took a step to the left, and that’s what I got him with. I landed the big shot.”

Breazeale vs. Negron was a fight between two massive heavyweights each standing at a respected 6’ 6,” and 6’ 7.” However there was a significant weight advantage for Breazeale, who outweighed Negron by 30 lbs. (256-226). Negron was successful moving around Breazeale behind jabs, but kept dropping his hands, as he was moving forward. Once Breazeale became more active by the third and fourth rounds, the momentum of the fight shifted to his favor.

“I knew the big shot was coming it was just a matter of time,” Breazeale said. “Sure enough, when that right hand landed, I knew it was over.”

Once Breazeale started shaking-off the ring rust due to his inactivity, he became more active throwing some accurate shots. Breazeale showed good form, good power, and consistent accuracy on a guy that was so easy to hit.

“It’s been way too long – 13 months,” Breazeale added. “I definitely worked off some ring rust, worked some great combinations and body shots, and finally got the KO.”

 

 

Through DAZN & Matchroom, Demetrius Andrade can be a star in boxing

Can you imagine a fight between Canelo Alvarez vs. Demetrius Andrade for the unified WBC/WBA and WBO middleweight championships? Throw in IBF 160-lb. champ, Daniel Jacobs and we can possibly have an eventual Undisputed World Middleweight Champion.

So many great fighters have fought at the Garden. When Canelo defeated Fielding it was his first time fighting at the Garden and it sold out. Jacobs, Brooklyn, NY native, became a two-time middleweight champion at the Garden in October. Jacobs and Andrade are both promoted by Hearn. Canelo may be promoted by Oscar De La Hoya is the centerpiece that can link these fighters into a series of great middleweight championship fights. This is the type of conversation that Andrade’s name should have long been involved in a series of great fights against the very best.

The fact that Andrade’s name could be linked to eventual big-money, big-market fights is just a huge indicator of how powerful is the union between DAZN and Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. Since DAZN’s official launch in New York City this past summer, Andrade’s career has received more attention in the last six months than his entire 10-year-career combined.

Andrade is a talented, talented, talented boxer who has power, speed, quickness, and tremendous ring-generalship. He won multiple U.S. National Amateur titles and represented the U.S. Beijing Olympic Games alongside future world champions Deontay Wilder, Sadam Ali, and Gary Russell, Jr. at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Prior to joining DAZN and Matchroom, it appeared as though Andrade’s potential was wasted by either his previous promoters DeGuardia Boxing and Banner Promotions, who co-promoted him since he began his professional career in 2008. There were times Andrade himself was blamed for stalling his own career, as he was stripped of the WBO 154-lb. title for his inactivity. Also, fights with either Jermall, or Jermell Charlo fell through.

Andrade was always good, but promoters simply didn’t know what to do with a technician as skillful as Andrade. HBO and SHOWTIME really didn’t have anything significant for him either, but that was then and this is now.

Today, there is no more HBO. Andrade ended his longtime relationship with DeGuardia  and Banner Promotions. In his first fight under DAZN and Matchroom, Andrade dropped Walter Kautondokwa four times, winning a unanimous decision in Boston last October to win the then vacant WBO middleweight championship that was previously held by undefeated Billy Joe Saunders, who failed a drug test when he was supposed to have defended against Andrade.

Andrade (26-0, 16 KOs), making the first defense of his 160-pound title a little more than a month after CANELO defeated Rocky Fielding for WBA super-middleweight championship at Madison Square Garden, and three months after Jacobs won the vacant IBF title at the Garden’s Theater, will make his long-awaited Garden debut on Saturday, January 18^, against Artur Akavov (19-2, 8 KOs).

“I couldn’t be more excited about this opportunity,” said Andrade. “Fighting at Madison Square Garden, where so many great fighters have fought is a true honor, and something I have dreamt about my entire life.”

Added Andrade:  “People might not know much about Akavov, but this is a guy who went overseas and gave Billy Joe Saunders absolute hell. Most people thought that he should have won the fight. This is an optional defense, so I could have fought anyone I wanted, but we chose to fight a guy that we know is going to bring it all night long and a guy who in many people’s eyes beat Saunders.”

Akavov will make a second attempt to win his first career world title. In December 2016, the Russian native came-up short against Saunders in a WBO title clash.

“After the fight with Saunders, I was hoping for a rematch because that fight left a lot of unanswered questions,” Akavov said. “I believe that Andrade is a better fighter than Saunders and this is my chance to answer those questions. I understand the weight of the responsibility that is on my shoulders and will give it 100 per cent.”

Akavov will now battle Andrade in another attempt to claim that same WBO 160-lb. crown. He understands just how difficult a boxer Andrade is and defeating him won’t be easy.

“I know that I have an extremely tough task in front of me,” Akavov said, “but that’s what this game is all about. I want all the top guys, all the belts and with Eddie Hearn and DAZN behind me and continuing to give me these opportunities to showcase my talent to the world, the other champions can’t hide for long. This is my time and January 18 is another step in that direction.”

Andrade vs. Akavov, will be streamed live on DAZN in the U.S. and sky Box Office in the U.K.  TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM WWW.MSG.COM – TICKETS START AT $46!

In addition to the main event, women’s boxer Amanda Serrano (35-1-1 26 KOs) will attempt to add another world title in another weight division when she challenges unified WBC/IBF super-flyweight champion Eva Voraberger (24-5, 11KOs).

“I’m super excited to be able to make history alongside the biggest and best network out now, DAZN,” said Serrano. “Being part of the best makes you want to raise the bar and we will do that together.”

Also, former world champion Jorge Linares (45-4, 28 KOs) returns to face Cesar Cano (31-7-1, 21 KOs).

ANTHONY JOSHUA is coming for everyone, but DILLIAN WHYTE will be next!!

Unified WBA/IBF/WBO and IBO heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has his sights set on returning to Wembley Stadium in April. No opponent has been finalized, although there has been speculation that Joshua may fight anyone from Oleksander Usyk to even Wladimir Klitschko, which would be a rematch from their 2016 heavyweight championship fight of the decade that drew more than 90,000 at Wembley.

The boxing world has been waiting for JOSHUA vs. WILDER: The World Heavyweight Championship for quite some time, but that fight was nearly derailed when Wilder needed a knockdown in the final round to escape Tyson Fury with a draw to retain his WBC heavyweight title.

It is imminent that WILDER vs. FURY 2 will take place. That is the heavyweight clash everyone wants to see. Until then, Joshua still has four other world title belts that he needs to defend. Perhaps the most logical opponent for Joshua would be a 2015 rematch with Dillian Whyte.

“The Whyte fight is a big fight for Anthony, but I will stress again the one fight we want is with [Deontay] Wilder,” said Matchroom Boxing’s Eddie Hearn, who promotes Joshua and Whyte. “We’re talking now. People shouldn’t assume the rematch with Fury is happening because the deal won’t be that easy. It never is for a fight of that size. It all depends really on Wilder; if he wants to be undisputed and if that matters to him. He can fight Fury after if he believes he can beat A.J. We don’t get chances very often to have undisputed champions, and that’s what everyone wants.”

 JOSHUA vs. WHYTE 2 will be one of the biggest heavyweight title fights ever made in British Boxing history. Although LEWIS vs. BRUNO (October 1993) was the first time in Boxing history that two British boxers clashed against one another for a world heavyweight championship, JOSHUA vs. WHYTE 2 could be bigger.

Lennox Lewis was making the second defense of his WBC title, as Frank Bruno was making his third career attempt to win the world heavyweight championship. Bruno was ahead on two of the official three judges’ scorecards before Lewis landed a left-hook that wobbled Bruno. Lewis finished Bruno with a series of unanswered punches against the ropes in the seventh- round.

Coincidentally, Joshua knocked Whyte out in the seventh-round when they fought. So why should Joshua and Whyte fight once more? What will be different the second time around?

When Joshua fought Whyte they were both unbeaten heavyweight prospects promoted by Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. It was a great risk, great reward situation that benefitted both fighters. Joshua went on to unify most of the world heavyweight titles and became the face of the division, while Whyte learned from his mistakes and emerged as the consensus No. 1-ranked heavyweight contender prior to the return of Tyson Fury in 2018.

Joshua has achieved more than Wilder and any other active heavyweight today. However,  Whyte has won eight consecutive fights (8-0, 4 KOs) including a spectacular KO of Lucas Browne in March (2018), and a decision against former WBO champion Joseph Parker (2018), a shutout decision win against  heavyweight contender Robert Helenius (2017), and a thrilling war against Dereck Chisora (2016).

All Whyte has to do is defeat Chisora in style in a rematch from their December 2016 slugfest on Saturday, December 22, live on SHOWTIME at 5:00 p.m. ET/2:00 p.m. PT from The O2 in London.

“What makes this fight intriguing to the average fan is that these guys are both characters and very entertaining fighters,” Hearn said. “At the first fight I sat next to Wladimir Klitschko and he said, ‘I don’t think this fight is going to be very good.’ And after three rounds we looked at each other just shaking our heads.”

Hearn added: “The winner of this fight Saturday night is so important to the global heavyweight scene and so much is at stake.”

WHYTE vs. CHISORA 2 – THE GLOVES ARE OFF

“There are levels to this thing and my levels just keep rising,” Whyte said. “I keep improving. Derek will see how strong I am come Saturday night. This is boxing and I’m used to people saying, ‘I’m going to do this or that’ to get into my head. I’ve been around long enough and heard fighters say ‘I’m going to come out banging in the first round,’ and then they come and do something else. So I don’t think Derek himself knows what he’s doing or where he’s going.”

While Chisora recognizes that first fight between the two was a great one, he isn’t coming to be Whyte’s stepping stone and plans to beat Whyte down.

“The first fight was a great fight,” Chisora said. “The boxing fans loved it. My brain cells didn’t love it but I enjoyed it. We are going to drown him from the get-go. We know he’s fit, but we want to see how fit he is. We’re going to go BOOM from the gates. I don’t want this to go to points. I’m going to knock the sucker out. Hundred  percent. I’m going to hit him. I’m going to pound him.”

Brooklyn Boxing presents Charlo vs. Korobov, Charlo vs. Harrison, Breazeale vs. Negron on PBC on FOX Saturday

The Charlo twins are set for another world title fight, but this time they will co-headline another night of Brooklyn Boxing live from the Barclays Center this Saturday.

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FOX & FOX Deportes will televise a triple-header featuring Jermall Charlo (27-0, 21 KOs) defending his interim WBC middleweight championship against Matt Korobov 28-1, 14 KOs) in the main event. WBC 154-lb. champion Jermell Charlo (31-0, 15 KOs) will make the fourth defense of his title against Tony Harrison (27-2, 21 KOs) in the co-feature. Plus, heavyweights Dominic Breazeale (19-1, 17 KOs), a former U.S. Olympian and world title challenger, battles Carlos Negron (20-1, 16 KOs) to open the telecast beginning at 8 PM/ET.

Tickets for the show, which is being promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, begin at $50 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000.

“Professional athletes have to be ready for anything,” Jermall Charlo said. “I’m ready for whoever is in the ring against me and whatever he brings. We’ll see who is at their best on Saturday night. This is a headlining card for the Charlo Twins and we’re ready to put on a show for our family and our fans. I’m ready, I’m sure Korobov is ready, so let’s get it on.”

Charlo was initially scheduled to defend his title against Willie Monroe, Jr., but Monroe failed a prefight drug test under the WBC Clean Boxing Program through the Volunteer Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) a few days ago. Korobov already was scheduled to fight on the undercard and was bumped-up to the main event slot within one week’s notice.

“I know that Korobov has been training because he was on the undercard,” Charlo said. “I’m thankful he accepted the fight and I just hope he’s done everything right to prepare for this fight. I’m doing it right, and now we’re going to fight.”

Jermall Charlo will be making his third consecutive appearance at the Barclays Center and has always performed extremely well in Brooklyn.

“Brooklyn is one of my favorite places to fight,” Charlo said. “This is familiar territory here. I’m going to prove once again that I’m one of the best in the world. I don’t know Korobov but I know that every fight is difficult. You never know what these fighters are doing. I’m a professional and I continue to make it look easy.”

Jermall, like his twin Jermell, is talented and very popular. The Charlos have both proven to be good fighters and can easily make adjustments regardless of who they’re fighting.

“I have a weapon that no one has been able to figure out,” Jermall said. “Once they do, I have a whole bunch of other weapons. I’m 28-years-old, I’m having the time of my life beating these guys down. Sooner or later, I’m going to get the mega-fights that everyone wants.”

Standing in Charlo’s path is Korobov, a former Russian Olympian with more than 300 amateur fights. Korobov has lost only once, a TKO defeat to Andy Lee for the WBO middleweight championship – years ago. Korobov, winner of his last four fights, as surprised when he received the call for his second chance to win his first career world title.

“It was a surprise to get the call for this fight,” Korobov said. “I was sleeping and preparing for my second workout of the day. But I was training hard already so I accepted right away. I’ve been preparing as hard as I can to make everything go exactly how I want it to on Saturday. It’s short notice but we’ve made the proper adjustments to the fight plan and we’ll be ready to make it happen in the ring.”

Korobov isn’t worried about what anyone says, or thinks his odds of winning a world title are on Saturday. He appears to be highly motivated and excited to be fighting Charlo on the biggest stage of his professional career.

“I don’t pay any attention to outside noise or anyone who doubts me,” Korobov added. “I’ve been preparing for this all of my life. This is my second opportunity to become a champion and I’m going to make the most of it. I’m going to show everything I’ve got. I have to be the best version of myself on Saturday night. I’m going to take all of my amateur and pro experience and mix it up to make a great performance.”

Charlo vs. Harrison: Defending his coveted WBC super-welterweight championship for the fourth time since May 2016, Jermell Charlo will be making his third career appearance in four fights at the Barclays Center. Knockouts of Charles Hatley and Erickson Lubin electrified the Brooklyn Boxing crowd last year.

“Brooklyn has become the new pinnacle of boxing for a lot of fighters and especially for me specifically,” Jermell Charlo said. “I’m winning with knockouts here and I’m excited to get in the ring at Barclays Center once again and do what I have to do.”

Jermell is anxious to put on another show for Brooklyn Boxing and feels great heading into Saturday.

“I feel really good right now,” Charlo added. “Everything is on point and where I need it to be. It’s fight week and it’s time to show out. I’m going to show up and put on for Lions Only. There’s nothing more than I can ask for than to be here to show everyone my abilities.”

Jermell, along with is twin Jermall each says a lot. However, they back-it-up in the ring with their skills and are impressive every time.

“I’m excited to show my skills again,” Jermell said. “This is big for me. I have an opponent who has the mindset to come in and dethrone me. He wants to stop the show, but it’s not over yet. I know that he needs to maintain his composure while trying to win a fight. Tony Harrison is a tall, rangy fighter but it’s nothing I haven’t seen before. He knows who he’s dealing with. My experience cannot be overlooked.”

In his previous world title defense in June at STAPLES Center, Charlo won a 12-round decision against former champion Austin Trout in the biggest fight of his career. Charlo expects to be even better on Saturday against Harrison.

“This training camp has been incredible,” Charlo said. “I’ve locked in with my coach and I’ve worked hard so that I’m fresh and at my best. I can’t wait to step into the ring on December 22. I hope Tony Harrison is at his best. There are certain things that he does well and we just need to make adjustments when we get in there. If he wants to box, we can box but if he wants to bang, we can be the aggressor.”

Harrison, a Detroit native, has worked hard and trained well for this world title challenge.

“Camp was amazing,” Harrison said. “I don’t think it could have gone any better. Based on all my other camps, I know that I’m absolutely ready for this fight. Now it’s just the anxiousness of waiting. I’m working on staying very composed right now. This is another day in the office for me. We’re just waiting to see how Saturday plays out.”

Harrison is no stranger to competing at the Barclays Center having posted victories against Siarhei Rabchanka (2016) and Paul Valenzuela Jr. (2017). Harrison also has key wins over Grady Brewer, Bronco McKart, Antwone Smith, Fernando Guerrero, and Ishe Smith.

Harriosn will be unfazed fighting Charlo on a big stage.

“This isn’t my first time fighting on the big stage at Barclays Center so I won’t let the emotions overcome me,” Harrison said. “No matter who I’m facing or what the platform is, I’ve been fighting my whole life. This is second nature to me.”

Harrison promises to become a world champion when it’s all over.

“I’m just going to come in and do my job. When I become champion I’m going to get that same respect from everyone,” Harrison said.

Breazeale vs. Negron: The road toward fighting for the world heavyweight championship can be lengthy and difficult path, but sometimes a boxer can get lucky. That was the case when Dominic Breazeale challenged Anthony Joshua for the IBF heavyweight championship in June 2016. Unfortunately for Breazeale, the fight did not end the way he intended, but he pressed the reset button and went back into the gym.

More than 2 ½ years following the loss to Joshua, currently the unified IBF/WBA/WBO and IBO heavyweight champion, Breazeale, winner of his last two fights 2-0 2 KOs in 2017, makes his long-awaited 2018 debut against Carlos Negron.

“Whether it’s in sparring or in primetime, I’m always going to bring it,’ Breazeale said. “This is a big platform on FOX so I have to show up. The lights are on you and I can’t wait. I’m excited right now because I’m chasing Deontay Wilder. I want that WBC title. I have this fight ahead of me, but I have to beat him to get what I really want. I want to fight for the biggest prize in the sport.”

Negron’s last 10 victories have occurred by knockout. The Puerto Rican native has put in the work and is ready for anything that Breazeale thinks he can bring to the table.

“We’re prepared for what Breazeale and anything he can bring into the ring,” Negron said. “He’s a tough opponent but I’ve trained too hard not to leave it all in the ring.

“This has been a great training camp. I had tremendous sparring that pushed me to another level. I’m excited to get out there and show it all on fight night. This should be a great fight for fans. I’m planning on being aggressive and bringing the fight to him. I hope he’s ready for it, because I don’t want any excuses after the fight.”

Negron and Breazeale are both big heavyweights with heavy fists. May are expecting this fight to end by KO.

“I’m a crowd-pleasing fighter,” Breazeale said. “I keep the fans on the edge of their seats. I can move for my size and I have knockout power. I’m looking for the knockout shot every single time.”

Photos Credit: Stephanie Trapp/TGB Promotions

PBC Release: Super Welterweight Contender Tony Harrison Hosts Holiday Toy & Grocery Giveaway for Hometown of Detroit

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PBC Press Release:  Detroit-native and super welterweight contender Tony Harrison spent this past Saturday spreading holiday cheer and giving back to his hometown as he hosted a Holiday Toy and Grocery Giveaway for the third year in a row to serve the Detroit community.

Harrison is nearing his world title challenge against Jermell Charlo that is part of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Saturday, December 22 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

“This year’s event was a huge success,” said Harrison. “It just keeps getting bigger each and every year. It brings me joy to be able to contribute something to people that need our help so badly.”

Born and raised in the city, Harrison used to train in Emanuel Steward’s famed Kronk Gym and was even managed by the boxing legend early in his career. Harrison has worked hard to instill the positive messages that he gleaned from Steward and to make himself part of the fabric of the boxing hotbed.

“I’m a product of Detroit, both the good and the bad,” said Harrison. “I know how hard it is out here and what these people are going through. I know what kind of help they need and I think it’s important that they know someone from their backyard is here to fight for them.”

Harrison held the event at his Superbad Fitness Gym and helped distribute toys and groceries for nearly 400 people throughout the morning and afternoon.

“There was one particular woman on Saturday who got very emotional and just poured out so much praise for the giveaway,” said Harrison. “She was so grateful and that really touched me and highlighted the importance of this whole event for me. You could tell she was a prime example of the extreme need that exists in our community, and I was very glad we could help her.”

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features WBC Interim Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo battling Willie Monroe Jr., in addition to the Charlo vs. Harrison showdown. Televised action also features a heavyweight attraction between Dominic Breazeale and Carlos Negron.

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Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

Jermall Charlo to face Matt Korobov

Following an unexpected change to the main event of the Charlo Twins championship doubleheader, Jermall Charlo (27-0, 21 KOs) will face Matt Korobov (28-1, 14 KOs) for the interim WBC middleweight live from the Barclays Center on Saturday, December 22, as Willie Monroe was forced to withdraw having failed a prefight drug test.

The event, which will also feature WBC super-welterweight champion Jamell Charlo against Tony Ferguson in the co-feature and Dominic Breazeale(19-1, 17 KOs) taking on Carlos Negron (20-1, 16 KOs), will kick off a new season of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes beginning at 8 PM/ET.

Monroe was disqualified from competition after he tested positive for a ‘banned substance’ through the VADA, which handles the testing for the WBC Clean Boxing Program. Korobov was already training for another fight on the undercard on Saturday, but could not pass on the chance to win a world championship.

“I was well prepared for Willie Monroe, who is a southpaw, so there won’t be that much difference facing Korobov,” Charlo said. “There is a size difference. He’s taller than Monroe, but I’ll just have to adjust my game plan. The best fighters in the world are the ones who are able to make the best adjustments. Beating Korobov is going to make the victory that much sweeter due to adversity. That means the celebration is going to be sweeter as well. He was fighting on the undercard, so he’s prepared. But now fighting for the title in the top spot is going to make him fight harder. I love it! He’s a much better opponent on paper than Willie Monroe.”

It has been four years since Korobov fought for a world title. He was stopped by Andy Lee in a failed bid to win the then vacant WBO 160-pound title. Korobov was ahead on the three official judges’ scorecards before Lee stopped him in the sixth. Winner for four fights in four years (4-0), Korobov was unexpectedly given another chance at winning a first career world title on Saturday in Brooklyn.

“I was training to fight on this card so I am physically and mentally ready to fight. Korobov said. “It doesn’t matter that I am taking this fight on a week’s notice because I have been preparing for this moment my entire life. I will make a few adjustments for Charlo and make the most of this opportunity.”

Korobov, 32 Russia, is not an easy, pick ‘em opponent. He has fought professionally for more than a decade and his sole defeat was in a world title fight against a very strong puncher in Andy Lee. Korobov won 300 amateur fights and represented Russia in the 2008 Olympic Games.

Opposing Korobov is Jermall Charlo, the interim WBC middleweight champion. Charlo will be competing in his third consecutive bout at the Barclays Center where he has turned heads with thrilling knockouts of Jorge Sebastian Heiland and Hugo Centeno, Jr. Charlo expects to continue his string of impressive performances in Brooklyn by beating-up Korobov.

Tickets for the show, which is being promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions in association

with DiBella Entertainment, begin at $50 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, Barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center starting Saturday, October 27 at noon ET. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Canelo winning WBA super-middleweight title, a HUGE WIN for MSG, DAZN, & Boxing Fans!!

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Former WBC super-welterweight and currently unified WBC/WBA middleweight Canelo Alvarez (51-1-2, 35 KOs) is now a three-division world champion. The 28-year-old from Guadalajara, Mexico easily relieved Rocky Fielding (27-2, 15 KOs) of his WBA super-middleweight championship in front of a sold out crowd of 20,112 people at Madison Square Garden, New York City on Saturday.

CANELO vs. ROCKY was indeed a significant boxing event, as Canelo competed in the first of a 5-year, 11-fight pact worth $365 million to fight exclusively on DAZN, an online streaming service in which fans have access to 100+ fights and live sporting-events annually from across the world. For $9.99 per month on all electronic devices, everyone can have access to Canelo’s fights and a plethora of other matches without having to fork over $80 to $100 bucks for Pay-Per-View.

Also, the cheapest ticket to see Canelo destroy Rocky was only $50, which proved that Golden Boy Promotions and DAZN did everything possible to ensure that Canelo was easily accessible for all to watch fight. Everyone walked away from the Garden and their smart-tech devices happy with Canelo’s dominance ad execution.

Canelo quickly realized that Rocky, the biggest man Alvarez has ever fought, wasn’t fast at all. At 6’ 1,” with a distinct size and reach advantage, one would think Fielding, 31, United Kingdom, would use distance and jabs to at least offset Canelo’s attack. That clearly wasn’t the case, as Fielding just stood directly in front of Canelo offering hardly any serious offense.

Canelo, fighting professionally since he was 15 years of age, reminded us all of just how excellent a body-puncher and in-ring technician he truly is when he floored Fielding with a vicious left-hook body shot one minute in the toward the end of round one.

In Round two, Canelo continued his dominance, as he pressed Rocky hard against the ropes and landed another left-hook to the body that dropped Fielding at the end of the stanza.

In round three, a clean short-right to the face dropped Rocky before having the champion kneel once more following a third brutal left-hook to the body. That’s four knockdowns in three rounds, as the bout was stopped at the 2:38 second mark.

“That was the plan in the gym, to hit the body and then move up, and that’s the result. You see the result here,” Canelo said. “I feel very good and very strong at 168 pounds. I didn’t have to dehydrate myself to make weight. We’ll have to see with what I do next. I have to talk to my team, enjoy the holiday and then I’ll talk to my team. But right now, without a doubt, what I want are the best fights. My goal is to make good fights for the people, for the public, and to make sure the name of Canelo Alvarez and of Mexico is held up high.”

The decision to have Canelo move-up to 168 to challenge Fielding for his WBA title proved to be perfect, as Oscar De La Hoya, in association with DAZN, may have solidified Canelo’s spot as the new face of boxing. Canelo drew a sold out crowd and may have easily boosted DAZN’s monthly subscribers with a dominant and rather easy performance against Fielding, whose “an opportunity of a lifetime” was wasted with such a nothing performance. It was as if Rocky was reverted from world champion-turned punching bag.

“It was the opportunity of a lifetime,” said Rocky Fielding. “I’m thankful for the opportunity to be a part of this big fight. I think Canelo has the power to face anyone at 168 pounds.”

At least Fielding didn’t ruin Canelo and Golden Boy’s splash with DAZN by offering an excuse for such an inexcusable performance.

Within the past 15 months, Canelo faced a lot of criticism for his controversial draw with former World Middleweight Champion Gennady Golovkin and a failed drug test that he blamed for contaminated meat. Canelo responded to all of his critics executing the most impressive performance of his career on the biggest night of his career by defeating GGG for the WBC/WBA 160-pound titles in his previous encounter, via split-decision in September.

Canelo returned three months later to perform at ‘The Garden, The World’s Most Famous Arena,’ in the biggest stage of his career, in a new weight-class, further introducing and establishing DAZN as the newest major buyer, marketer, and distributer of fights; replacing what was HBO Boxing’s 45-year dedication to boxing, which will rival SHOWTIME, ESPN, and FOX Sports by proving fans with a ‘Netflix-type’ catalog of fights for all to enjoy.

“Thank you HBO for all of the memories,” said Oscar De La Hoya, who through HBO Sports Programming that included a TVKO and HBO Pay-Per-View outlets. “Over the years, you have been a true pioneer…but there’s a new kid on the block and his name is DAZN.”

De La Hoya is called ‘The Golden Boy’ for a number of different reasons. He was the face of boxing in the post-Mike Tyson era. De La Hoya helped ‘Money’ Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao become Pay-Per-View kingpins; utilizing his knowledge, experience, and assets, De La Hoya has led Canelo into becoming boxing’s newest ‘Golden Boy’ through HBO and DAZN will reap the benefits.

Canelo has 10 fights remaining on his 5-year deal with DAZN. Canelo is 28, compared to GGG (36), Manny Pacquiao (39), and of course ‘Money’ Mayweather (41). There is more upside with Canelo to showcase and market him hard to the public. If everything goes according to plan, Canelo will be 33 years of age with 64 professional fights and $365 million richer by the time his deal with DAZN ends.

Does GGG have 5 years left? Does Manny even have 5 fights left? Let’s not even discuss age.

The days of watching Mayweather in a meaningful boxing match, those days are probably over. After ending his career with an easy decision against Andre Berto three years ago, Mayweather returned from ‘retirement’ to face former UFC two-division world champion Connor McGregor in one of the richest fights in boxing history in August 2017.

Mayweather will reportedly return on New Year’s Eve in Japan to face a professional kick-boxer in an exhibition match under ‘special rules.’

Canelo’s sole defeat was against Mayweather in September 2013, via majority-decision. It was a great boxing match, but Mayweather’s style was so beautifully executed, as he appeared almost flawless. However, Mayweather was smart-enough to fight Canelo when he did. Although he lacked experience fighting an elite boxer, Saul Alvarez was destined to be the next big thing in boxing and Mayweather was smart-enough and talented enough to move up from 147 to 154 to face Canelo. Five years later, Canelo may have appeared to emerge as the new face of boxing.

Whether Mayweather-Canelo II ever happens, Canelo has so many options as to who he’d like to face next. De La Hoya already announced that Canelo will return in Las Vegas on Cinco de Mayo weekend (May 4, 2019). There may be a third fight with GGG. Also, newly crowned IBF middleweight champion Danny Jacobs openly expressed his intentions to unify the WBC/WBA and IBF titles against Canelo at 160. Canelo can also resume defending his new 168-pound belt at 168, where he looked strong, well-trimmed, and unstoppable against the likes of Rocky Fielding.

In other bouts:  In the co-main event, IBF super-featherweight champion Tevin Farmer (28-4-1, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania retained his title with a unanimous-decision against Francisco Fonseca (22-2-1, 16 KOs) of San Ramon, Costa Rica. The judges scored the bout 117-111 across.

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“It was a good performance,” Farmer said. “He was really, really tough. And after a few rounds, we saw that and we started working on things. It’s all a road to improve. I say it was a C+, B- performance. Nowadays, I really have a lot of anger built up, good anger though, and I just want to hurt everybody when I’m in the ring. I don’t have no sympathy.”

Former WBO 154-lb. champion and 2008 U.S. Olympian Sadam Ali (27-2, 14 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York defeated Mauricio Herrera (24-8, 7 KOs) of Riverside, Calif., via unanimous-decision after their 10-round welterweight fight: 100-90, 99-91, 98-92.

“Honestly, I didn’t look good in there,” said Ali said. “I felt like I won sloppy. Herrera made me look terrible in there. He’s a rugged fighter. And I fell in there that last moment of the fight the same way I fell when I fought Miguel Cotto. I felt like the cards were a lot closer than what the judges said they were.”

Golden Boy sensation Ryan Garcia (17-0, 14 KOs) of Victorville, Calif. Knocked out Braulio Rodriguez (19-4, 17 KOs) of La Romana, Dominican Republic in round five at 1:14 seconds.

“I wasn’t looking for the knockout because a lot of people say, if this kid can fight, I just see skills on Instagram,” said Garcia said. “I wanted to show them that I can fight and I am for real.”

The sensational Katie Taylor (12-0, 5 KOs) of Bray, Ireland defeated Eva Wahldtrom (22-1-1, 3 KOs) of Helsinki, Finland to retain her unified IBF/WBA lightweight championships.

“The goal is to be the undisputed lightweight champion of the world,” Taylor said. “Obviously one of the biggest fighters out there is Amanda Serrano, and that’s a huge, huge fight. Let’s get it on.”

Lamont Roach Jr. (18-0-1, 7 KOs) of Washington, D.C. defeated s Alberto Mercado (15-2-1, 3 KOs) of Humacao, Puerto Rico via unanimous decision in a super featherweight fight

“I controlled most of the fight, and felt like I hurt him in almost every round,” Roach said. “I am proud of the fight that I had tonight – most fighters don’t take the type of fights I say yes to. I’ll do what it takes to make it to the top and that means fighting skilled fighters.”

Yves Ulysse Jr. (17-1, 9 KOs) of Montreal, Canada defeated Maximiliano Becerra (16-3-2, 8 KOs) of Santa Ana, Calif.

“It was truly a dream coming true to fight at the Madison Square Garden,” said Yves Ulysse Jr. “All the best fighters have fought here and the atmosphere is really unique. I felt like home in the ring. I’m happy about my performance: I’ve stick to the game plan, was patient to get the openings and hurt him.”

Also, Bilal Akkawy (19-0-1, 15 KOs) of Sydney, Australia defeated Victor Fonseca (17-9-1, 14 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico by stopping him at 2:53 seconds of his seventh-round.

“There is a lot of room for improvement,” said Bilal Akkawy. “I wasn’t myself in there, but I’ll be working on that when I get back to the gym. It’s an honor to have fought here [Madison Square Garden]. The plan now is to enjoy the holiday and then head to Mexico so I can get ready for my next fight.”

Photo Credit: Tom Hogan-Hoganphotos/Golden Boy Promotions

 

TEVIN FARMER defends his IBF 130-lb. title on ‘CANELO vs. ROCKY’ This Saturday!

IBF super-featherweight champion Tevin Farmer (27-4-1, 6 KOs) is set to make his second defense of his 130-pound title against Francisco Fonseca (22-1-1, 16 KOs) on the “CANELO vs. ROCKY,” WBA super-middleweight championship fight card featuring Canelo Alvarez (50-1-2, 34 KOs) challenging Rocky Fielding (27-1, 15 KOs) on Saturday, December 15, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. DAZN will stream the event live.

The bout with Fonseca will be Farmer’s third world title fight the last four months, which almost unheard of in today’s market. Credit to DiBella Entertainment for keeping their champion active and accessible, as Farmer is approaches the pinnacle of his career.

“Tevin Farmer is the most active champion in boxing and one of the most skilled,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Tevin has fought 17 rounds over two championship bouts in the last four months, and the case can be made that he is yet to lose a minute, let alone a round. I expect a similar dominant performance on Saturday in Madison Square Garden as Tevin continues to establish himself among the elite of boxing.”

Winless in three of his first five professional fights (2-2-1), Farmer was 7-4-1, 1 KO to start his career. Farmer resurrected his career winning 18 consecutive fights, which led to his first world title shot against Kenichi Ogawa in December 2017. The controversial decision was overturned when Ogawa failed a post-fight drug test and the bout was declared a no-contest.

In August 2018, Farmer was awarded another world title shot when he traveled to Australia to defeat Billy Dib for the vacant IBF 130-pound title. In October, Farmer, who signed a co-promotional deal with Eddie Hearn of Matchroom and longtime promoter Lou DiBella, stopped James Tennyson in Boston.

Next, he faces Fonseca, who has KO’d his last three opponents since suffering a knockout loss himself to Gervonta Davis for the IBF super-featherweight title on the epic MAYWEATHER vs. MCGREGOR event in August 2017.

Farmer-Fonseca joins former WBO 154-lb. champion, and 2008 U.S. Olympian, Sadam ‘World Kid’ Ali (26-2, 14 KOs) vs. Mauricio Herrera (24-7, 7 KOs) and former IBF 160-lb. champion, David Lemieux (40-4, 34 KOs) vs. Tureano Johnson (20-2, 14 KOs) on what appears to be a ‘Stacked’ CANELO vs. ROCKY card from the ‘World’s Most Famous Arena.’

Also on the card: The undefeated heavyweight sensation Junior Fa (15-0, 8 KOs) of New Zealand battles Argentina’s Rogello Omar Rossi (20-6-1, 13 KOs) in a scheduled 10-round contest.

Unbeaten middleweight Steve Rolls (18-0, 10 KOs) of Toronto, Canada, challenges Alabama veteran KeAndrae Leatherwood (21-5-1, 13 KOs in a scheduled 10-round bout.

“I’m so proud of the DiBella Entertainment roster, which continues to showcase its talent and depth on a weekly basis,” said DiBella. “As Tevin Farmer defends his world title in New York City on Saturday, three other world-class members of the DBE stable that are on the brink of breaking through as world champions will be showcasing their skills around the globe. Tevin, Junior, Steve, and JonFer are primed to turn in excellent performances and I am excited to continue guiding them toward the top of the sport.”