SHOWTIME/PBC Release: Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo Undercard Press Conference

CANELO ÁLVAREZ VS. JERMELL CHARLO UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE

Featuring Jesus Ramos Jr., Erickson Lubin, Yordenis Ugas, Mario Barrios, Elijah Garcia and Armando Reséndiz

Fighters Preview Respective Showdowns on Canelo vs. Charlo SHOWTIME PPV^® Undercard This Saturday, September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS – September 28, 2023 – Fighters stepping into the ring on Saturday’s loaded Canelo vs. Charlo SHOWTIME PPV undercard faced off Thursday at the final press conference before they enter the ring at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The press conference included undefeated sensation Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. and top contender Erickson “Hammer” Lubin, who meet in the 12-round co-main event, former world champions Yordenis Ugas and Mario “El Azteca” Barrios, who battle for the Interim WBC Welterweight Title, and rising middleweights Elijah Garcia and Armando Reséndiz, who square off in the pay-per-view opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com. 

The pay-per-view undercard features three high-stakes showdowns as the rising contender Ramos looks for a career-best victory against the established contender Lubin, while former champions Ugas and Barrios can move closer to regaining world title status with a victory, plus young middleweights Garcia and Reséndiz hope to catapult up the rankings with a signature performance.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from MGM Grand:

JESUS RAMOS JR.

“I’m happy to be here. There’s a lot of talent on this stage. It’s a stacked card of explosive fights and I’m blessed to be a part of it.

“I have a really tough opponent in front of me and we’re looking for a firefight. It’s gonna be exciting and I can’t wait.

“It’s really important that I dominate because Lubin is so tough and has given guys like Sebastian Fundora a lot of trouble. It would be a big statement and a big win for my resume.

“He’s a good fighter and I know he had a strong camp. He looks ready. So I’m ready for the best version of Lubin. We’ll see what happens on Saturday night.

“I’m looking to showcase my talent. I’ve seen people say that I don’t have a lot of ring IQ, so I’m looking to show that and other dimensions to my game. It’s gonna be a new Jesus Ramos. It’s not really about exposing Lubin, but more about displaying my talent.

“Lubin has something to prove, and so do I. We’re both trying to win the title and we’re standing in each other’s way. It makes this a big fight and it’s gonna be exciting on Saturday night. You definitely don’t want to miss this one.”

ERICKSON LUBIN

“I’m happy to be back after just fighting in June. Activity brings the best out of me. I’ve got a young opponent in front of me who’s hungry, but I’m hungry as well. It’s gonna be a firefight.

“I’m looking to separate myself with a big win over Jesus Ramos. I can separate myself from all these 154 pounders and be in line for a really big fight. I’m here to make a statement, and I will.

“This is personal, but not against Ramos. It’s personal for myself because I see how people are underestimating me. It’s all fuel to my fire. I’m here to make a statement as well. The sky’s the limit for me after this.

“I took the Jermell Charlo fight at 22 years old, and Ramos is doing the same thing and daring to be great by fighting someone like me. I know he comes ready to fight, but I feel history repeats itself, but in my favor.

“We’re two young fighters who are coming for it all. You’re not gonna want to miss this great fight on Saturday night.

“I’m looking forward to putting on a show for everyone watching.”

YORDENIS UGAS

“I’m really excited to be here once again. I’m fighting a former world champion, so this is gonna be a great show. I’m ready for the challenge.

“I’ve spent seven years fighting the best in the division and I’m gonna answer all the doubters on Saturday. They’re gonna see what I’m capable of.

“We’re two former champions who put on great fights. Look at the opponents that we’ve fought. The resumes speak for themselves.

“I’ve spent my entire career coming back from adversity over and over again. If you want to see what I still have left, you’ll have to watch Saturday night. It will all be revealed.

“Everyone knows that I’m a world champion, but I’m also a man of the people and someone who represents the Cuban community and that’s really important to me. I have a very important fight on Saturday, but I fight on another front and that’s for my people and the message I want to provide for them. In Cuba there are political prisoners and I carry their message and fight for them. I represent their message.”

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m just ready and excited to be part of this card. All of these fights from start to finish will be bangers. This is a card you don’t want to miss.

“Me and my team have had a great camp out here in Las Vegas. I just can’t wait to get in the ring on Saturday and put in work.

“A win on Saturday is crucial. The winner gets put in a great position to contend for the world title. I know it’s not gonna be an easy task, but I don’t like easy fights. That’s why I took the fight with Keith Thurman for my first time at welterweight.

“I know Ugas is coming ready. It’s gonna be a real fight because of what we both bring to the table. I’m so ready to show everyone what I’m capable of.

“Me and my trainer Bob Santos have been putting in work. We’ve had a great camp out here for the last few months. Now it’s my job to take everything from the gym and use it in the ring.

“We’re both very prideful fighters who fight for our people. I fight to represent the Mexicans and those of indigenous descent. It’s gonna be a banger. He comes with it, and so do I.

“Ugas is a great fighter. I’ve had a lot of respect for the person and fighter that he is for many years now. Stepping into the ring with him now is a tremendous honor. This fight has the potential to steal the show because of what we both bring to the ring.”

ELIJAH GARCIA

“Saturday night is gonna be a great night of fights. I know everyone up here is ready to put on a show for all the fans. I’m prepared to give my best performance and I appreciate everyone who’s gonna come out and support me.

“I know Armando comes in shape and he’s really strong. He throws a lot of punches, so I have to control the pace. You saw in his last fight what happens when he controls the pace. So I’m definitely not gonna let that happen.

“I try to choose the best opponent every time. Armando was on the top of the list because he’s gonna give me experience that I need. He’s gonna prepare me for the world title. I want to get better each and every fight.

“I didn’t think my last performance was my best. I started a little slow. But I’m gonna prove that I’ve got more experience than I showed. I’m a new class fighter and I’m gonna show I’m on a different level.”

ARMANDO RESÉNDIZ

“I’m very excited for what’s about to come. Garcia is a tough fighter, but I’m all about challenges and testing myself against really good opponents.

“This is a great opportunity and I’m elated to be fighting an opponent like this on a card of this magnitude. It doesn’t get any better than this.

“I like that Elijah has that attitude, because it’s gonna make it a great fight. It’s a clash of titans and most importantly, nothing is decided beforehand. We have to take it in the ring. I have to take it from him.

“We’re two young fighters who are coming for it all. You’re not gonna want to miss this fight on Saturday night.

“You’re gonna see a great fight on Saturday night and I’m looking forward to putting on a show for everyone watching.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“I cannot wait for Saturday night. This is a tremendous pay-per-view card. We open with Elijah Garcia and Armando Resendiz in an all-action fight between two guys who earned this opportunity by taking on all challenges. The winner of this fight will fight for a middleweight world title in 2024.

“Yordenis Ugas versus Mario Barrios is a must win fight for both guys. It’s for an interim world title, so the winner will be in a great position as the dust clears and we see what happens in the 147-pound division.

“The co-main event is gonna be a shootout between Jesus Ramos Jr. and Erickson Lubin. These guys earned this position. When you talk about putting a fight in a phone booth, that’s this fight. There won’t be a step back in this one.”

SHOWTIME/PBC Release: Undisputed Super Middleweight Champion Álvarez Defends Titles Against Undisputed Junior Middleweight Champion Charlo

“He’s gonna feel it…He’s not used to being in there with a fighter like me.” – Canelo

“You’re gonna see us back again for a rematch, because this is my moment.” –Charlo

Undisputed Super Middleweight Champion Álvarez Defends Titles Against Undisputed Junior Middleweight Champion Charlo

Saturday, September 30 Headlining SHOWTIME PPV^®

From T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS – September 27, 2023 – Undisputed world champions Canelo Álvarez and Jermell Charlo went face to face Wednesday at the final press conference before their historic showdown headlining SHOWTIME PPV this Saturday, September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions pay-per-view.

The undisputed super middleweight world champion Canelo will put his titles on the line against the undisputed junior middleweight world champion Charlo in the first matchup of the four-belt era pitting two reigning male undisputed champions against each other.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand:

CANELO ÁLVAREZ

“I feel great and ready for this fight. Jermell is right, I have nothing to prove. But this time, I have something to prove to him. He never believed in my skills. He’s been calling me out. Now I have the opportunity to show him my skills. And that motivates me. I had a great camp and I’m ready to show everybody my new skills.

“I always train 100% and motivate myself, but it’s even more for this fight. He’s called me out for a long time and I’m gonna show him what I can do in just a couple days.

“He’s gonna feel it. It’s hard to explain it, but it’s just something different. He’s not used to being in there with a fighter like me.

“Just make sure you tune in, because it’s gonna be a great fight. I don’t know what animal I need to be, but I’m that animal. Tune in on September 30. It’s gonna be good, believe me.

“I never overlook any fighter. I know what he’s gonna bring and I’m ready. I’ve been in there with all types of fighters. He hasn’t experienced this kind of level of fight. You will see and you will learn.

“I want history for my career. I want to achieve a lot of things. This is another one of them and I can’t wait.

“People will always have something negative to say. I have to prove that I’m still on top.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“We finally made it to this moment. Training camp was really hard and I had to really focus. Canelo is the kind of fighter you can’t take for granted. He’s done everything in this sport of boxing and he’s got nothing to prove.

“I have so much on my plate and in order to continue my legacy, I have to be equipped with every tool. I know that the fans are gonna win on Saturday night. You’re gonna see us back again for a rematch, because this is my moment.

“I’m a warrior. I did what I had to do, and now we’re at this moment. I don’t think Canelo has faced a fighter of my caliber. He’s been in there with great fighters, but there’s something I bring to the table that’s a lot different than anyone he’s seen.

“I defy the science of boxing. I’m one of the guys from the younger era and I’ve been fighting my whole life. What I’ve been through in life, a lot of people can’t compare to that. I deserve to be in my position and now I get to prove my worthiness.

“I’m coming to win this fight, no matter what he says. We shall see Saturday. If he’s motivated to prove to me that he has skills, so be it. I’m coming to win.

“Making history means everything to me. That’s what it’s all about. We’ll come back to these moments later in life and look back and enjoy it. Right now we’re living in the moment and continuing to turn these chapters.

“I’ve backed up everything I’ve said. Right now this is my time and my moment and I’m gonna proceed and take it.”

EDDY REYNOSO, Canelo’s Trainer and Manager

“We’re excited to be back in Las Vegas once again. This is a very important fight for us. We’re facing a great opponent who’s undisputed and has a great team behind him and also great boxing skills.

“We spent three months training for this fight and had no setbacks whatsoever. It’s been a while since Canelo has been able to train so intensely. We’ve left behind the injuries and setbacks and we’re ready to show that Canelo is prepared to put on a great fight for the fans.

“We’re very motivated to be here in Las Vegas for a great fight. We’re going to prove how motivated we are by giving the fans a great fight.”

DERRICK JAMES, Charlo’s Trainer

“This is a very special event because it’s undisputed versus undisputed. The great Canelo Álvarez is gonna bring out an even greater Jermell Charlo. I’m looking forward to Jermell being great and becoming undisputed once again. He’s here to make history.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“Undisputed versus undisputed. I love saying it all week and I love the sound of it. On Saturday night we have a historic matchup between reigning male undisputed champions. With only a few days to go, the fighters are focused and laser sharp. Just look at these guys, they are ready for Saturday night.

“Canelo is the best pound-for-pound fighter today. He’s a superstar and the face of boxing. Jermell is the first ever undisputed 154-pound champion and now looks to become undisputed in two weight divisions.

“This is a great card from top to bottom, and as a fan, I cannot wait for Saturday night. Get your tickets early, purchase the pay-per-view and sit back and enjoy the night. This is truly a special fight.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, SHOWTIME SPORTS^®

“We have a special historic matchup featuring the biggest stars in the sport in an exciting fight that breaks through to the mainstream and attracts non boxing fans the world over.

“This isn’t just a fight. This isn’t just a boxing match. This is different. This is the best the sport has to offer. This is as good as it gets.

“Calling Canelo vs. Charlo a fight is like calling filet mignon meat. It’s like calling LeBron James a basketball player. It’s like calling ‘The Godfather’ just a movie. This is special.

“Not all boxing events are the same. Not all combat sports are the same. What we’re doing here is the highest level of the sport. This is a historic matchup; one truly undisputed champion against another undisputed champion.

“There is nothing in combat sports that matches this. We have to enjoy this event and savor it.”

 

SHOWTIME/PBC Release: Top Heavyweight Frank Sanchez, Former Champion Oleksander Gzovdyk, & U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha highlight three-fight CANELO vs. CHARLO SHOWTIME PPV® COUNTDOWN SHOW

Matchups To Stream Live on SHOWTIME SPORTS^® Digital Platforms Beginning at 5:30 PM ET/2:30 PM PT

Streaming Fights Precede Canelo Álvarez vs. Jermell Charlo SHOWTIME PPV^® at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS – September 22, 2023 – Top heavyweight Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sanchez will highlight the stacked three-fight SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN show as he takes on Scott Alexander in a 10-round matchup on Saturday, September 30 leading up to the Canelo Álvarez vs. Jermell Charlo SHOWTIME PPV event taking place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions pay-per-view.

The lineup will also see former light heavyweight champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk battle Brazil’s Isaac Rodrigues in an eight-round duel, while 2012 U.S. Olympian Terrell Gausha faces KeAndrae Leatherwood in an eight-round middleweight bout. The live stream will begin at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT and be available on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing^® Facebook page.

The show will be hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show hosts Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell.

These fights lead into a four-fight pay-per-view telecast beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and headlined by Undisputed Super Middleweight World Champion Canelo Álvarez defending his titles against Undisputed Junior Middleweight World Champion Jermell Charlo in a historic battle of reigning undisputed champions.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com. 

An amateur standout from his native Cuba, Sánchez (22-0, 15 KOs) now trains in California with renowned trainer of Canelo Álvarez, Eddy Reynoso. The 31-year-old caught the heavyweight division’s attention when he scored a career-best win in October 2021, dropping the previously unbeaten Efe Ajagba on his way to a unanimous decision victory. Most recently he blasted out Daniel Martz in one round in April. He will be opposed by the 34-year-old Alexander (17-5-2, 9 KOs), who most recently knocked out Jaime Solorio in August 2022. The Los Angeles-native has challenged many contenders throughout his career, including Zhilei Zhang, Carlos Negron and Travis Kauffman.

After earning a bronze medal representing his native Ukraine at the 2012 Olympics, Gvozdyk (19-1, 15 KOs) turned pro in 2014, eventually defeating a slew of contenders to earn a light heavyweight title shot. He went on to become WBC champion with an 11^th-round knockout of Adonis Stevenson and defended the title in 2019 by stopping Doudou Ngumbu in round five. Since losing the belt in a unification match against Artur Beterbiev, Gvozdyk has picked up a pair of victories in 2023, besting Josue Obando in February and Ricards Bolotniks in May. He will take on Mocajuba, Para, Brazil’s Rodrigues (28-4, 22 KOs), who most recently dropped a decision to Richard Rivera in February. Rodrigues has also challenged contender Demond Nicholson in a career that dates back to 2005.

A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, Gausha (23-3-1, 12 KOs) was born in Cleveland, Ohio but now fights out of Encino, Calif. The 36-year-old has faced tough competition throughout his career, having fought former champion Austin Trout to a draw in 2019 in addition to decision losses against former champion Erislandy Lara, top contender Erickson Lubin and interim champion Tim Tszyu. Gausha has shown impressive power in recent years, blasting out Jamontay Clark in two rounds in 2021 and most recently stopping Brandyn Lynch in round nine in March. He faces Tuscaloosa, Alabama’s Leatherwood (23-8-1, 13 KOs), who has faced numerous former champions and contenders including Caleb Truax, Andy Lee, Hugo Centeno Jr., John Jackson, Steve Rolls and Christian Mbilli.

The non-televised undercard will see 140-pound contender Gabriel Valenzuela (27-3-1, 16 KOs)duel Yeis Gabriel Solano (15-2, 10 KOs) in an eight-round attraction, amateur sensation Curmel Moton in his pro debut taking on Ezequiel Flores (4-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round super featherweight fight, and super featherweight prospect Justin Viloria (3-0, 3 KOs) stepping in for a six-round match against Chicago’s Angel Barrera (4-2).

Rounding out the lineup is a pair of unbeaten prospects from Kazakhstan as Bek Nurmaganbet (10-0, 8 KOs) squares off against Abimbola Osundairo (5-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight tilt, while middleweight Abilkhan Amankul (4-0, 4 KOs) faces Joeshon James (7-0-1, 4 KOs) for six rounds of action.

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SHOWTIME/PBC Release – Erickson Lubin: “On fight night, Ramos is gonna know I’m the better man.”

Hard-Hitting Contender Lubin Speaks from Training Camp Before Battling Unbeaten Sensation Jesus Ramos Jr. in Canelo vs. Charlo SHOWTIME PPV^® Co-Main Event Saturday, September 30 From T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS – September 22, 2023 – Hard-hitting contender Erickson “Hammer” Lubin will look to catapult himself right back to the top of the stacked 154-pound division with an emphatic victory over unbeaten rising sensation Jesus “Mono” Ramos in the Canelo vs. Charlo SHOWTIME PPV co-main event on Saturday, September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions pay-per-view.

“Ramos is nothing that I haven’t seen before, and on fight night, he’s gonna know that I’m the better man,” said Lubin during a short breather from training camp. “He’s a tough southpaw, but I’ve watched enough to dissect him and go out there and execute in the fight. He’s a good fighter, but he’s not perfect. There are a lot of flaws that I can definitely capitalize on and that’s what I’m going to do on September 30.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com. 

Lubin (25-2, 18 KOs) returned from a defeat to Sebastian Fundora in one of 2022’s best fights to stop contender Luis Arias in June and begin another ascent toward a world title shot. Before stepping into the ring for a pivotal matchup on September 30, Lubin spoke extensively about training camp, Ramos, bouncing back from defeat and more:

On his edge in experience and how it could play out in the fight:

“When it comes to ‘A-side’ or ‘B-side’, it doesn’t really matter in this fight. I’m the one with experience. He wants to be in my spot. He’s young, he’s undefeated, he’s been on big undercards and stuff like that. But they must have given him the ‘A-side’ because of his looks or something because I’m really the ‘A-side’ if it comes down to it. He wants to take what I have. On September 30, it’s my job to stop this young boy’s dreams. He bit off more than he can chew too early. This is an important fight for me. I’m going to show the world that I’m not a gatekeeper in this division. I’m one of the top dogs in this division. Being a gatekeeper doesn’t sit well with me. So I’m motivated. I’ve got a chip on my shoulder and it will show on September 30.”

On training camp in South Florida with head trainer Kevin Cunningham:

“We haven’t done too much differently this training camp. The one thing we have done differently is the game plan. Every training camp we give it our all. We train really hard and that’s just the program and system that we live by. I’ve had over 200 rounds of great sparring with young guys and veterans, so I’m sharp.”

On when he first targeted Ramos as a potential opponent:

“I asked for this fight before Ramos fought Joey Spencer. They told me no. I guess he was still growing, but now is the time for him. I’m excited for it. He’s a young lion and I’m going to show him that I’m a young lion with more experience. I’m hungrier than he is. I just want it more.”

On what taking on this challenge says about him as a fighter:

“Look at my resume. It’s been like this from the beginning. They know what type of fighter I am. I feel I’m one of the best in the world and I want to leave my mark on the sport as one of the greatest to ever do it. I could have been fighting a YouTuber and I still would have trained just as hard. I look at every fight as my most important one, especially while I’m right here, close to a title. I still want to avenge my defeats against Sebastian Fundora and Jermell Charlo, but in order to do that, in order to get another world title shot, I’ve got to go out and prove myself. I’ve got to win in a good fashion.”

On how he’s able to bounce back from his defeats:

“I’m strong mentally. I really believe in myself. I know the talent that I have. I’m very talented. My hiccups only made me better. With the Charlo fight, I was a little bit too young. Charlo was fighting in his 30^th fight and it was just my 19^th. The experience level was different.

“With the Fundora loss, that was a fight I was winning. My trainer had to throw in the towel because of my face. He cares for me beyond boxing. He saw my face swollen and lumped up and he did what he felt was best. We live to fight another day. I came back, went to the drawing board and got better and smarter. Right now, I’m just entering my prime. I’m 27 years old and the best of me will show on September 30. I’m excited, I’m stoked, and I definitely want to show that I’m the best fighter in the division.”

On how important a statement victory is to him:

“I don’t feel that I have to make a statement, but I will make a statement. I’m always motivated to just win. That’s the only objective. But I feel I will make a statement. With the hard training camp that we had with Kevin Cunningham, who is a zero-tolerance type of trainer, he’s drawn up a great game plan and it always works. So I’m definitely going in there, listening to him, and it’s going to be a great night on September 30.”

On what fighting in the co-main event of a pay-per-view mega fight means to him:

“I’ve been waiting for moments like this. I feel like this is going to bring the best out of me. We put in a hard 10 weeks of camp. I just got back from fighting in June. Activity brings the best out of me. This is what I asked for. It’s the big stage and I’m going to show that I’m a very elite fighter. They know I’m elite, but I’m going to show that I’m one of the best in the world and I’m here to stay. I’ve got this young kid in front of me and he wants to take my spot.”

SHOWTIME/PBC Release: Yordenis Ugas & Mario Barrios Las Vegas Media Workout Quotes

Former World Champions Ugas and Barrios Vie for Interim WBC Welterweight Title on Canelo vs. Charlo SHOWTIME PPV^® Undercard Saturday, September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS – September 20, 2023 – Former world champions Yordenis Ugas and Mario “El Azteca” Barrios showed off their skills and previewed their upcoming showdown for the Interim WBC Welterweight Title during a media workout in Las Vegas Tuesday before they meet on the Canelo vs. Charlo SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Saturday, September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions pay-per-view.

Ugas and Barrios will look to reclaim championship gold in a matchup that will see the former WBA Welterweight Champion Ugas square off against the former 140-pound titlist Barrios. Each fighter is led to the ring by a renowned trainer as Ugas is guided by longtime top trainer Ismael Salas, while Barrios trains under 2022 Ring Magazine Trainer of the Year Bob Santos.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com. 

Here is what Ugas and Barrios had to say Tuesday from DLX Boxing in Las Vegas:

YORDENIS UGAS

“In the end, it’s about taking each round as seriously as the previous round. I don’t take anything for granted. The goal is to have each and every round go the direction I want it to go.

“I’m not in the prediction business, but what I do is fight elite fighters, give my best every round and let the chips fall where they may.

“I’m used to these big fight atmospheres, but it is very exciting to be on the card with a star as big as Canelo. It’s a great source of pride and I plan to bring my best for all the fans watching.

“It’s beautiful to be fighting here in Las Vegas again. I’m 5-0 in Las Vegas and this is my third time fighting at T-Mobile Arena. I feel at home and absolutely love fighting here in Las Vegas.

“It was both physically and emotionally tough after the Errol Spence Jr. fight. Emotionally I had to carry that loss with me. Now I can redeem myself and put it all in the past. I always knew that I would come back after the fight. My eye got stronger after the surgery and now I feel ready.

“I was so happy to be able to be back in the gym and do what I’ve wanted to do my entire life. I was back in training in December and started sparring again a couple months after that.

“I’m just focused on my fight. I have no clue what Crawford may do with the WBC belt. I’m doing my thing and that’s what I plan to keep doing.”

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m gonna bring the same intensity that I bring in every fight. I feel a lot more comfortable and settled in at the weight now.

“I’m preparing myself to the best of my ability. We have a very good game plan that we’re getting ready for Ugas. It’s a really hard fight, but those are the type of fights that I like to take. I want to continue to test myself and my ability and my skill in the ring.

“Everything has been really good. I’ve been here in Las Vegas for a few months staying ready. My mind and body are both looking on point right now. It’s exciting.

“I think the move out here to Las Vegas was necessary. I feel sharper than ever and more focused. I get tremendous workouts here. It’s been very beneficial.

“A win in this fight means everything for me and my career right now. It puts me at the top of the division with the best welterweights out there and gets me closer to the bigger world title fights.

“I’m very happy to be here in Las Vegas with Bob Santos. Me and Bob have always had a great relationship and having him as the head coach again is great. We’re gonna be able to accomplish a lot in the next few years.”

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Zhang KOs Joyce in rematch, remains interim WBO heavyweight champion

Interim WBO heavyweight champion Zhilei Zhang (26-1-1, 21 KOs) scored an emphatic knockout of previously unbeaten titlist Joe Joyce (15-2, 14 KOs). The end came at 3:07 seconds of the third-round, as Zhilei landed a short-left, followed by a perfectly-timed right that put Joyce flat on the canvas.

The loss marked Joyce second consecutive defeat. During their first meeting in April, Zhilei out-boxed Joyce before stopping him on cuts. In the rematch, Zhilei had an easier time handling Joyce, who weighed-in at a career-high 281 lbs. That’s a 25-pound jump from what he originally weighed in the first fight. Why Joyce would put on so much additional weight from his original score of 256 lbs. from the previous fight is beyond me, but the reality is Joyce didn’t throw nearly the amount of punches he did in the first fight.

Zhang, who was 278 in April, clocked in at 287 lbs.

As both fighters threw slow-plodding punches in the opening round, Zhang started attacking behind a barrage of punches behind his southpaw (left-handed) style in round two. Zhang was increasingly confident in round three, as he continued pressuring Joyce behind multiple power-shots that staggered “The Juggernaut.”

Suddenly, a short-left that barely grazed Joyce’s chin, was used to set up Zhang’s powerful right-hook to Joyce’ face. As soon as Joyce went down, you knew he was in trouble and that there was a god chance the fight had ended.

As interim WBO heavyweight champion, Zhang is in line to fight unified WBA, WBO, IBO and IBF heavyweight champion Oleksander Usyk. In August, Usyk retained his unified titles having beaten WBA mandatory Daniel Dubois in August.

Benn bags 10-round win in Orlando return

Conor taken the distance by tough Mexican –

McCaskill and Ryan unification ends in split draw

Conor Benn bagged ten vital rounds in his return to the ring against tough Rodolfo Orozco in Orlando, Florida, live worldwide on DAZN.

Benn (22-0 14 KOs) showed little signs of ring rust as he tangled in the ring for the first time since April 2022, and landed heavy artillery on Orozco early, buckling the legs of the Mexican in the third round.

Orozco (32-4-3 24 KOs) absorbed that punishment and more throughout the ten rounds, but had that toughness synonymous with fighters from Mexico, and was able to provide a test of Benn’s own durability and punch-resistance, which the Brit passed with flying colors with scorecards of 99-91 twice and 96-94 – and considered it a good night’s work after enduring ‘hell’ over the last year outside the ring.

“We didn’t want a walk in the park,” said Benn. “I needed the rounds after 18 months out, he’s a true Mexican, my first Mexican I’ve fought, and we knew he was durable. Credit to him, he’s never been stopped before and he’s one tough man and I hope he progresses.

“They are stronger and take shots more, I don’t think there was ring rust, I was going through the gears after going through hell.

“Britain is my home and it’s only right I fight back there, sooner rather than later.”

There was controversy earlier in the night for the second Brit on the card, after Sandy Ryan’s Welterweight unification clash with Chicago’s Jessica McCaskill ended in a split draw, with the judges torn 97-93 McCaskill, 96-94 Ryan and 95-95 – both fighters felt they had done enough to get the win and called for it to be run back in an immediate rematch.

Women in the Arena: “CasKilla” McCaskill & Sandy Ryan battle to a split-draw

In a highly anticipated Women’s World Welterweight Championship unification bout, unified WBC, WBA, and IBO champion, Jessica “CasKilla” McCaskill and Sandy Ryan, the WBO titlist, both retained their respective world titles following a split-decision draw after 10 rounds.

The judges scored bout 97-93 (McCaskill), 96-94 (Ryan), and 95-95 (even).

The championship encounter was part of a boxing event that was held live from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL. The event also featured Richardson Hitchins’ unanimous-decision victory over Jose Zepeda, as well as, the return of Conor Benn, was streamed live on DAZN.

Prior to the fight, Ryan’s trainer Clinton Mitchell made comments about how Jessica’s footwork was too slow and that she’d have literally no chance to outbox his fighter.

McCaskill came out aggressive – jabbing, throwing shots, and slipping Ryan’s punches. A fighter can’t do these things unless they have some kind of footwork and timing. Ryan had a hard time working through Jessica’s power and accuracy. Ryan did plant her straight-right on McCaskill’s face, but “CasKilla” countered with greater volume and effective aggression.

McCaskill was winning the majority of the exchanges in the earlier rounds. It wasn’t until round four when Ryan began boxing more on the outside; forcing Jessica to reach and miss with her shots. This allowed Ryan to find greater success landing punches without getting drilled by McCaskill’s aggressive volume. Ryan didn’t sit as much in the pocket, as McCaskill was ready to fiercely swap hard leather with Ryan whether in the middle of the ring, or against the ropes. Instead, fighting on the outside allowed Ryan to counter McCaskill’s punches and consistently match her volume.

The difference in the fight might have been the body punches Ryan threw. Once Ryan started attacking McCaskill’s body, Ryan had greater success fighting Jessica on the inside because.

Although Jessica did slowdown, she surely didn’t breakdown. McCaskill and Ryan engaged in a relentless slugfest during the championship rounds that drew roars and multiple reactions from the crowd. The people saw McCaskill fighting with her back against ropes before turning the tide. Then everyone saw McCaskill looking to drill Ryan with punches.

It was a very exciting women’s title unification bout, although no winner would be declared. Both champions expressed a willingness to have a rematch.

Top Rank Boxing Release – SATURDAY: Zhilei Zhang-Joe Joyce Heavyweight Rematch Headlines London Fight Night at OVO Arena Wembley LIVE on ESPN+

Zhang-Joyce II and Anthony Yarde-Jorge Silva light heavyweight co-feature will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ beginning at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT

Zhang & Joyce face off at Thursday’s press conference

LONDON (Sept. 21, 2023) – Top Rank on ESPN+ returns to London this Saturday with a special two-fight broadcast from OVO Arena Wembley.

In the main event, Chinese contender Zhilei Zhang defends his WBO interim heavyweight title in a highly anticipated rematch against British knockout artist Joe Joyce.

The co-feature will see former two-time world title challenger Anthony Yarde taking on Portugal’s Jorge Silva in a 10-rounder.

Promoted by Queensberry, Zhang-Joyce II and Yarde-Silva  will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ beginning at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT.

Zhang (25-1-1, 20 KOs) captured an Olympic silver medal for his home country at the 2008 Beijing Olympics before turning pro in 2014. He compiled a 24-0-1 record before losing a controversial decision to Filip Hrgovic last August. Less than eight months later, he faced Joyce for the first time, peppering the Brit with lefts until the ringside physician stopped the fight in round six due to the swelling engulfing Joyce’s right eye. Joyce (15-1, 14 KOs), a 2016 Olympic silver medalist, hopes to exact revenge in his hometown. Before the first Zhang fight, “The Juggernaut” stopped top contenders Carlos Takam, Daniel Dubois, and Joseph Parker during a five-fight knockout streak.

Yarde (23-3, 22 KOs) is a London native who debuted as a pro in May 2015. He went 18-0 before almost knocking out Sergey Kovalev for the WBO title in August 2019. He bounced back with two TKO wins before suffering a split decision defeat to Lyndon Arthur in December 2020. Yarde then notched three more wins, including a fourth-round knockout over Arthur in their December 2021 rematch. Yarde is coming off a valiant but unsuccessful effort against light heavyweight king Artur Beterbiev in January. Silva (22-8, 12 KOs) is a 19-year pro coming off a decision win over Jack Jones in June.

Matchroom Boxing Release – Hitchins: I don’t feel pressure headlining

Brooklyn star says he was ‘born’ for the spotlight – and will light up the Sunshine State on Saturday night

Richardson Hitchins says he’s too good to feel pressure in headlining for the first time in his career on Saturday night – and will put on a dazzling performance against Jose Zepeda to prove it, as they clash at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS FOR ORLANDO ARE ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COM

Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) is bearing down on the champions at 140lbs, and victory over former World title challenger Zepeda (37-3 28 KOs) would see the Brooklyn ace knocking on the door for a crack at the belts.

The 25 year old joined promoter Eddie Hearn in visiting the School of Hard Knocks gym in Orlando to impart their wisdom on aspiring young fighters, and seeing the work done in the community by the gym reminded Hitchins of how far he’s come from humble beginnings to the edge of glory.

“I don’t really feel the pressure of headlining,” said Hitchins. “I was born to do this; I’m made for it. I think that there’s always been pressure for me for day one, but I handle it because I am confident in my ability and in who I am. I am a special fighter; at the end of the day, it’s boxing and I truly believe I’m one of the best out there.”

“Every opportunity is important, so I am looking at this fight like I have all my previous fights, it’s must-win. If you can master boxing and you can conquer the world, and that’s what I am in the sport for, to be at the very top.

“From starting out to headlining on Saturday it’s been a crazy journey. I think back to being a kid that walked into a boxing gym after seeing Marcus Browne in the 2012 Olympics, I was probably 14, and following that was my first short-term goal to go to the Olympics.

“From there, to signing with Mayweather Promotions, fighting on Showtime, beating a former World Champion in Argenis Mendis, and now headlining my first show; it’s just destiny when you look at it.

“When you are chasing a dream and you are on that journey, it’s easy for people to doubt you or think you aren’t that guy. There are always things on the outside that you may have to overcome, but when you have my focus, your eyes set on that goal, all you must do is focus on that because the storm always ends, and you will get to the sunshine.

“My family was homeless, I have come from a tough beginning, but I always knew boxing would be a way out. I am making sure that me and my family never have to go back to days that I couldn’t help. Period. I think I have a gift and I am using that to make like better for them. I’m able to help and the more I master my craft, I will use it to achieve more and more inside and outside the ring.”

Hitchins’ clash with Zepeda is part of a stacked card in Orlando, with co-main action in the form of the return of British star Conor Benn (21-0, 14 KOs) who faces Mexican Super-Welterweight Rodolfo ‘Sinaloita’ Orozco (32-3-3, 24 KOs)

Jessica McCaskill (12-3 5 KOs) and Sandy Ryan (6-1 2 KOs) clashing in a unification battle for the WBA, WBC, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine Welterweight titles and Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams (14-0 10 KOs) press his claims for World title action at Middleweight as he tackles Steve Rolls (22-2 12 KOs).

Orestes Velazquez (7-0 6 KOs) will defend his WBA International Super-Lightweight title to headline the Before the Bell action against Mohamed Soumaoro (13-1 6 KOs). Khalil Coe (6-0-1 4 KOs) continues to rise through the ranks at Light-Heavyweight, and ‘Big Steppa’ will be looking for his third KO win of 2023 against Kenmon Evans (10-1-1 3 KOs). Super-Welterweight Jeovanny Estella (12-0 3 KOs) and Super-Flyweight Jasmine Artega (10-0-1 5 KOs) tasting action over eight rounds while Bantamweight Roberto Rivera Gomez (3-0 2 KOs) kicks the whole night off over four rounds, with all three fighters to be matched imminently.