Boots Ennis Defends Title in Front of 14,000 Fans in Philly

By Frank Bartolini

Matchroom Boxing returned to Philadelphia on Saturday night in front of over fourteen thousand derrieres in the seats. Eddie Hearn won the IBF Welterweight King Jaron "Boots" Ennis Sweepstakes. After Showtime Boxing's demise, Ennis, Philadelphia, PA., was left without a promotional contract. Promoters from around the globe lined up outside the "Philly’s Next Champ" boxing gym to court the world champion. Hearn cashed the winning ticket and immediately began scheduling to have "Boots" defend his crown in Philadelphia. Specifically, the Wells Fargo Center, where the event was held. 

Armenian David Avanesyan, 147 lbs., was brought in to challenge for Ennis’ belt. Being heavily favored did not deter Ennis' preparedness. A physically primed Ennis, 146.5 lbs., was adorned with a light blue and white decorum for his homecoming. Once Ennis disrobed, his chiseled physique was on display. 

From the sound of the opening gong, Ennis controlled the action scoring with hard to the head and body shots. One body punch from Ennis landed south of the border. Upon receiving the low blow, Avanesyan fell to his hands and stayed there for a couple minutes. Ennis finished the first session strong when a recovered Avanesyan found his feet. 

To his credit, Avanesyan arrived to win a world title, moving forward throughout the contest. While getting pummeled during the bout, Avanesyan managed to get his licks in. Quite a few Avanesyan right uppercuts to the chin snapped Ennis' head back. Some of Avanesyan’s shots stung Ennis. Ennis would get backed up against the ropes or into a corner and respond with fire power. With about a minute left in the fifth, Boots landed a left hook to the midsection followed by a left square on the chin that sent Avanesyan crashing to the canvas. Gamely beating the count, Avanesyan received a beating until the bell rang. Wisely, after the ring physician and Avanesyan’s corner convened, they chose not to allow the boxer out for the next session. At this decision, referee Eric Dali waved off the affair and declared Ennis the victor by fifth round TKO. 

Born in Russia, Avanesyan calls the United Kingdom his home and flies back to England with a 30-5, 18 KOs record. Ennis remains undefeated at 32-0 29 KO’s. Earlier in the evening, New Jersey native and Philly-based junior featherweight Christian Carto,124.5 lbs., systematically broke down and overmatched Carlos Buitrago, Nicaragua, with power punches landing on every legal area above the torso. Hitting the canvas after suffering a painful trouncing in round three, Buitrago,125.75 lbs., rose to finish the round. Wisely for all those involved in Buitrago’s corner it was decided their charge would be better served by his tailbone staying on the ring stool. Being declared winner by third round TKO, Carto is now 23-1, 16 KOs. Buitrago dips to 38-14, 22 KOs. 

A big ticket seller, Carto turned pro around the same time as Ennis. At one time, Carto was a promising prospect that was being offered contracts by numerous promoters. After suffering an upset knockout loss back in 2019, Carto’s career was stalled by the COVID pandemic and a series of injuries. From February 2019 until the end of 2023, Carto only fought three times. Under the tutelage of Bozy Ennis and promoted by Marshall Kauffman’s Kings Promotions, Carto’s career is back on track scoring three victories by knockout in 2024. 

Since invading the shores of America in November of 2017, Matchroom Boxing has promoted numerous shows in the United States. What would the fight game be today in the USA if this promoter never chose to do business here? At the post-fight conference, Eddie Hearn said he would like to bring Ennis back to the Wells Fargo Center in late October or November of this year.

Inside the Ringside with Frank Bartolini - Hulu Theater at MSG

By Frank Bartolini

Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, New York City:  Matchroom Boxing delivered another superb night of boxing to New York. On top of the card, popular super middleweight contender Edgar Berlanga, Brooklyn, NY, faced Jason Quigley, Ireland. Berlanga garnered an undefeated record as part of Top Rank’s stable. Earlier this year, Top Rank and Berlanga parted ways. Both Golden Boy and PBC showed interest in signing Berlanga, but he chose Eddie Hearn. 

Irishman Jason Quigley, 167.5 lbs., was brought in as the opponent to showcase Berlanga's,167.75 lbs., skills. A big draw in the Big Apple, Berlanga had a house full of cheering fans. 

Anxious to end a four-bout drought without scoring a knockout, Berlanga went straight to work from the opening bell. In round three, Quigley hit the deck after absorbing a Berlanga right to the side of the head. During the fifth stanza, Berlanga scored a questionable knockdown after hurting Quigley with a left hook to the chin. To his credit, Quigley kept himself in the fight with some slick boxing while getting in his licks when he had his chances. As the clock ran out in the final heat, Berlanga got through with a left hook followed by a straight right to his foe’s cranium that resulted in Quigley eating rosin dust. Going for the kill, Berlanga dropped Quigley again with a barrage of punches.

The sold-out crowd roared in approval with the decision when ring Announcer Dave Diamante read the scores 116-108 twice and 118-106, all for Berlanga who’s record is now 21-0, 16 KOs. Quigley gave an admirable effort as his record dips to 20-3, 14 KOs. 

A former junior middleweight champ Jamie Munguia and future Hall of Famer Gennady Golovkin are a couple of names that have come up as potential future adversaries for Berlanga. After scoring sixteen first round knockouts in first sixteen fights as a professional, Berlanga has become a "bombs away" headhunter at times, shots that negate his body attacks. During his streak of kayoes, Berlanga's mid-section assault was a precursor to him tagging his opponents with crushing shots to the head. Berlanga will have to revisit those techniques if he is going to compete against the elite of the super middleweight ranks. 

Bombs away! Nothing better than watching two heavyweights with limited defensive ability take turns clocking one another. Thirteen-year veteran heavyweight Joe Cusumano, Danville, VA, scored the biggest win of an up until now ordinary career. Sadly, Cusumano crushed the hopes of one-time heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki, Brooklyn, NY, resurrecting his livelihood. A Cusumano, 238.25 lbs., right to Kownacki’s face dropped the Polish hammer in round one. Kownacki, 251.75 lbs., found his way back to his corner and continued his losing struggle until he was brutally finished at the two-minute mark of round eight. With the win, a big payday awaits Cusumano, 22-4 20 KOs. Falling to 20-4, 15 KOs, Kownacki has lost his last four fights, three of those by ugly knockouts. Popular consensus agrees Kownacki should never again step foot in a boxing ring.

Inside the Ringside with Frank Bartolini

By Frank Bartolini

As I traverse north on the New York Thruway to this year's International Boxing Hall of Fame inductions, the Hudson River runs alongside me moving in the opposite direction passing by New York City before dumping into the Atlantic Ocean. My mind began thinking about the great island of Manhattan. 

Who is Larry Goldberg? 

Larry is a Ventnor New Jersey native. During Atlantic City’s pugilism heyday Goldberg fell in love with the sport of boxing in grade school while attending fights at various casinos. By the time Goldberg graduated Atlantic City High School in 1996, Larry had been ringside to witness all-time greats Larry Holmes, Evander Holyfield, Roy Jones, Mike Tyson and the list goes on and on. 

Attending Hofstra University turned Larry into a New Yorker, and these days he calls Manhattan home. In 1998, during the early days of boxing websites when most fans were still receiving their timely reports from Boxing Flash and Boxing Update, Goldberg launched boxinginsider.com. Boxinginsider.com immediately became, and still is, one of the most popular boxing websites on the internet. 

In October 2022, Larry delved into promoting professional boxing club shows at the Sony Hall in Times Square NYC. Since then, Goldberg’s promotional company, Boxing Insider Promotions, has promoted an additional three more shows at the venue and each one is better than the last. Helping guide Larry is IBHOF inductee Lou DiBella and seasoned matchmaker Eric Bottjer. 

All of the Boxing Insider shows are scheduled on Thursday nights. Most recently on April 27th, Goldberg took a big step forward when DAZN aired this show globally on their streaming network. 

Boxing Insider Promotions returns to Sony Hall in Times square on June 29th. Sizzling hot prospect junior welterweight Kurt Scoby will face Philadelphian, and former world title challenger, Hank Lundy in a scheduled eight round main event. Back in February, Scoby stole the show on a ShoBox fight card with a stunning second round knockout. 

Nearly a half a millennium ago, legend tells us our forefathers purchased Manhattan Island from Lenape Indians for a few shekels and a pouch of beads. In 1626 when this deal was consummated, the world was full of mystics. Not one soothsayer foresaw what this islet would manifest into by February 4, 2023, when a sold-out HULU theater hosted undisputed world featherweight queen Amanda Serrano, Brooklyn, NY, duking it out with gloves against Erika Cruz of Mexico. 

Determined to attend the Serrano vs Cruz weigh-in on Friday morning, I came into the Big Apple Thursday night and lodged at The New Yorker Hotel. Located across the street from Madison Square Garden on Eighth Ave., The New Yorker Hotel opened in 1930. Nikola Tesla boarded there on the thirty-third floor for the last fifteen years of his life. Upon entering the lobby through the revolving door, you will discover an art deco masterpiece that still maintains an aesthetic appeal.

An exuberant, smiling Alycia Baumgardner captured everyone's heart at the weigh-in on Friday. Baumgardner has never relented in her pursuit of greatness. When Alycia disrobed to mount the scale the "oohs" and "aahs" could be heard. No longer a young prospect with her hair in braids and braces on her teeth, Baumgardner posed with her sculpted figure, head full of beautiful curly hair, and gorgeous smile in a gold bikini. She appeared to be a Sports Illustrated swimsuit model rather than a prizefighter. 

I lodged at the UN Millenium Hilton Hotel, situated on the corner of First Ave and Forty Fourth street with a street address of One UN Plaza, on Friday and Saturday. After having a cocktail at the hotel bar, aptly named the Ambassador Grill and returning to my room, I took in a view of the East River. Frigid temperatures broke all time lows and mighty whirlwinds whisking through the cavernous streets and avenues created a sub zero wind chill. Cutting arctic sting chills did not interfere on whether or not I was going to walk a block and a half up Forty Fourth street to a favorite haunt of Manhattanites titled the Overlook Bar. A unique cast of patrons can always be found there, including newsies who are employed by the various networks in the area. Upon entering, I knew it was going to be an entertaining evening when two friends, the bouncer Mike and the proprietor Mark, were both on the job. Making it back to the sanctity of my hotel bed before sunrise was an achieved goal. 

Since landing on United States soil Matchroom Boxing USA has consistently delivered quality fight cards. All in attendance at the sold-out Hulu Theater would agree as they roared their approval for Amanda Serrano's unanimous ten round decision win over a hard fighting Cruz. 

Matchroom Boxing's next show at the Hulu Theater is on June 24th. Headlining the show is super middleweight Edgar Berlanga, who squares off against Jason Quigley of Ireland in a twelve rounder. Matchroom signed Berlanga soon after he and Top Rank parted ways. Another interesting scrap set for ten rounds; heavyweight Adam Kownacki will be trying to snap a three-fight losing streak when he faces Joe Cusumano in the semi wind up.

LOVE VS. VALENZUELA LANDS ON CANELO-BIVOL UNDERCARD

Matchroom Boxing Press Release

Super-Lightweight battle to light up Las Vegas on May 7; Heavyweights Hrgovic and Zhang set to clash

Montana Love and Gabriel Valenzuela will clash in a mouthwatering Super-Lightweight battle on the undercard for Canelo Alvarez vs. Dmitry Bivol at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, May 7, live on DAZN, excluding Latin America and Mexico. In the U.S. & Canada, the event will be offered exclusively on DAZN Pay-Per View (PPV). Tickets will go on sale on Wednesday, March 23.

Love (17-0-1, 9 KOs) will fight under the Matchroom banner for the second time and on back-to-back Las Vegas fights, having dispatched Carlos Diaz inside three rounds at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in December. The Cleveland man is ranked #12 with the IBF and will look to crash into the top ten in style on The Strip but will need to be on his A-game against Valenzuela (25-2-1, 15 KOs).

The Mexican crashed into top ten with a road-win over Robbie Davies Jr. in London last February and has recorded a pair of KO wins in his homeland since that night. The May 7 showdown is a huge opportunity for him to sparkle in the spotlight alongside his fellow countryman Canelo, in a fight in association with Clase Y Talento and Canelo Promotions.

“Nothing changes on May 7,” said Love. “He’s just another body in the way.”

“I’m so proud to be sharing a spot on the card with such a great Champion, Canelo Alvarez,” said Valenzuela. “We’re prepared for this and training very hard for this fight against Montana Love. He’s a tough opponent but we’re going to come very hard to get the victory. That night Mexico is coming with everything we have.”

Hrgovic (14-0, 12 KOs) sits #3 in the IBF rankings and the giant Croatian has been hunting a dance partner for a showdown to name the mandatory challenger for the title held by Oleksandr Usyk. The 29-year-old Olympic bronze medalist has cut a lethal swathe through the pro ranks to sit in a prime position for a deserved shot at the big prize, ending all but two of his fights inside the distance, and not going past the fifth round in his last seven outings.

A host of Heavyweights were offered the clash with the dangerous Croat, but not until it came to #13 ranked Zhang (23-0-1, 18 KOs) was a dance partner found, with the lofty Chinese star accepting the challenge. The 38-year-old has been circling for a major showdown, and ‘Big Bang’ gets his wish against Hrgovic in Sin City with the two KO artist promising to leave it all in the ring with the stakes so high.

“I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for more than year,” said Hrgović. “Finally, I have an opponent willing to face me for the chance to fight for the IBF World title. So many fighters turned down this challenge so credit to Zhang for being brave enough to accept.

“I know he’s a good opponent. He won silver at the Olympics so that means he’s a good boxer, but he is too slow on his feet, and I believe I have better the qualities. My speed, stamina and footwork will be too much for him. I will break him down and I will beat him.

“I’m now only one fight away from my dream of boxing for a World title and nothing is going to stop me. Canelo is the face of boxing and I’m excited to get this opportunity on such a big show. I'm ready to show the whole world that ‘El Animal’ is coming!”

“I am very happy that this fight is going to happen,” said Zhang. “I’ve been waiting on an opportunity – now it’s here and I’m not going to let it pass. When no-one else from the top 15 wanted to face Hrgovic, I told myself I had to do it for me and for the sport of boxing. This is the most important fight of my whole career. I’m all in. Don’t miss it!”

“Finally, we’ve found an opponent willing to accept the challenge,” said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “Having gone through the IBF rankings twice, Zhang has stepped up to face Filip Hrgović in an IBF World title final eliminator. We now have ‘El Animal’ versus ‘Big Bang’ for a shot at the biggest prize in boxing. This epic battle is going to light up T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, where fans can witness the next Heavyweight Champion of the World in action.”

Love-Valenzuela and Hrgovic-Zhang lead the undercard for a blockbuster main event that sees pound-for-pound Mexican king Canelo looking to become a two-time World ruler at 175 lbs against long-reigning WBA champion Bivol on Cinco De Mayo weekend.

Tickets will go on sale starting at $105 (plus fees) on the following dates and times (all times PT) at AXS.com.

“These are two great fights for a massive night in Las Vegas,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Montana Love is ready for big fights now and in Gabriel Valenzuela, he’s got a huge test of his ambitions at the very top level – Gabriel will lay everything on the line and will have the Mexican fans roaring him on, so Montana will need to produce his best.

“I love the Heavyweight dust-up between Filip Hrgovic and Zhilei Zhang. It’s been a long-time coming for someone to step up to the plate and fight Filip, credit to Zhilei and his team for taking on the challenge. Both men carry huge power, and they know that victory takes them one step closer to sport’s ultimate prize – Heavyweight Champion of the World. There won’t be a backwards step taken when they rumble, it’s going to be fireworks on an already electric night.”

BUATSI AND RICHARDS COLLIDE IN HUGE LIGHT-HEAVYWEIGHT CLASH

Matchroom Boxing Press Release

South London rivals meet on May 21

Joshua Buatsi will face former World Title challenger Craig Richards in a huge all London Light-Heavyweight clash on Saturday May 21, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

Croydon’s Buatsi (15-0, 13 KOs) scored his tenth knockout in a row when he stopped Latvia’s Ricards Bolotniks in the eleventh round of their WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title Eliminator on the third and final week of Matchroom Fight Camp in August. 

The 29-year-old was set to face Russia’s former World Title challenger Maxim Vlasov on the undercard of Joseph Parker’s rematch with Derek Chisora at the AO Arena in Manchester in December before suffering a hand injury. 

Crystal Palace’s former British Light-Heavyweight Champion Richards (17-2-1, 10 KOs) put in a spirited display as he pushed WBA Light-Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol all the way in his first World Title attempt in May 2021.

‘Spider’ returned to winning ways at The O2 last October on the Cameron vs. McGee undercard, impressively stopping Poland’s Marek Matyja in six rounds to earn the vacant WBA International Light-Heavyweight Title. 

“Two London boys coming together, it’s going to be a huge night,” said Buatsi. “The Light-Heavyweight scene in this country is thriving and I’m glad that we are able to get one of the biggest fights made. The crowd are going to be in for a treat. I am coming to win and nothing else, I am sure Richards is doing the same. He had a close fight with Bivol so will want to make things straight, but I have other plans. Win well and then push onto the World Title by any means necessary.”

“We’re two top tier fighters from the UK,” said Richards. “This is one of the biggest London domestic clashes for a long time. This is a very exciting fight for us both, but also one the fans will enjoy. Buatsi has got his plans and I’m sure he be well prepared, but nobody is going to stop me from fulfilling my destiny of becoming a World Champion! He is a solid competitor and will be coming to win, but I am confident and believe I have the tools to get the job done. I proved myself at world level and I’m eager to prove that’s where I belong.”

“A big well done and thank you to Joshua and Craig for taking this fight, it’s exactly the kind of fight boxing should be making,” said Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman. “Two domestic Light-Heavyweights on the verge of a World Title shot decide to put it on the line rather than wait in a queue, giving us a fantastic battle of London that can only be a thriller."

“Who doesn’t love a big domestic dust up? And this certainly fits that description, what a fantastic fight this is set to be,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “With an electric Light-Heavyweight scene in the UK, Joshua Buatsi will face a big test on May 21 against former World Title challenger Craig Richards. This will be all out action from start to finish, all live and exclusively on DAZN.”

MATCHROOM RETURN TO SPAIN WITH UPCOMING EVENTS IN BARCELONA AND BILBAO

Press Release

SPAIN’S GOLDEN BOYS SANDOR MARTIN AND KERMAN LEJARRAGA SET TO HEADLINE EVENTS IN APRIL AND MAY

Matchroom Boxing will return to the Palau Olímpic Vall d'Hebron in Barcelona, Spain on Friday 1 April for a huge night of action topped by Sandor Martin taking on Jose Felix for the WBA International Super-Lightweight Title, live on DAZN.  

Following his sensational victory over Mikey Garcia in October last year – Barcelona’s Martin (39-2, 13 KOs), is set for a homecoming event against the all-action, hard hitting Felix (39-5-1, 30 KOs). In what was arguably one of the biggest wins in Spanish boxing history, Sandor Martin will be looking to maintain momentum towards a World Title shot against the dangerous Mexican.

Unbeaten Olympian Samuel Carmona builds on his impressive and destructive performance in December, with his toughest assignment to date – taking on the seasoned Super Flyweight Fadhili Majiha (28-14-4, 14 KOs). After taking on Galal Yafai four times as an amateur, Carmona looks to keep winning and target an eventual meeting in the pro ranks with the Olympic Gold Medal winner Yafai.

Barcelona’s exciting Super-Lightweight Spanish Champion Alejandro Moya (15-0, 10 KOs) takes a step up against Liverpool’s Tom Farrell (20-5, 5 KOs) and Ricards Bolotniks (18-6-1, 8 KOs) is back in action against unbeaten Croatian Hrvoje Sep (11-0, 8 KOs). 

Following the return of one Spanish golden boy, Matchroom head to the hometown of another on Friday May 20 – as Kerman Lejarraga (34-2, 26 KOs) takes on another British rival James Metcalf (21-2, 13 KOs) at the Bilbao Arena, Bilbao. After a brutal KO win in December, ‘The Revolver’ will be looking to pull the trigger on another standout performance which would propel him towards a first World Title shot.

“I’m so excited to fight again in Barcelona, for me it is a very special comeback after beating Mikey Garcia in California. I needed to fight in front of my people again and feel their support. It could be my last fight before fighting for the world title. I don't want any surprises, I've worked hard and I want to show that I'm ready,” said Sandor Martin.

"I’m happy to return to Bilbao before a great fight with Metcalf and then I’m ready for a World Title. My team knows it!" said Kerman Lejarraga.

“Spanish boxing is on the up and we’re thrilled to work with Matchroom Boxing to bring Spanish boxing fans, and fans around the world, the best fighting the best,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. "Sandor Martin faces a tough challenge in Jose Felix for the WBA International Super-Lightweight title, after a career changing win last time out against Mikey Garcia. Hometown hero Kerman Lejarraga take on another British rival James Metcalf, looking for a statement and future first World title shot. Don’t miss all the action, live worldwide on DAZN.”

“We’re really excited to be returning to Spain with these two consecutive events, live on DAZN,” said Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith. “There is absolutely no doubt that Spanish boxing is in the healthiest position it has ever been in – with huge wins by last year for Sandor Martin, Kerman Lejarraga and of course Kiko Martinez. We want to ride that wave and keep delivering big events to the market! The atmosphere in Barcelona and Bilbao is always special and we look forward to two massive events over the coming months.”

Further details; including full undercard and ticket information will be released in due course.

SCARDINA AND DE CAROLIS MEET IN HUGE ALL-ITALIAN CLASH

Press Release

Super-Middleweights clash in Milan on May 13 – unbeaten Zucco headlines April 22 fight night in Verbania

Matchroom and OPI Since 82 return to Italy and Super-Middleweights will take centre-stage with Daniele Scardina and Giovanni De Carolis meeting in a huge all-Italian showdown on Friday May 13 at the Allianz Cloud in Milan, while unbeaten 168lbs talent Ivan Zucco faces Marko Nikolic at Palazzetto dello Sport in his Verbania, Piemonte hometown on Friday April 22, live worldwide on DAZN.

Scardina (20-0 16 KOs) defends his WBO Intercontinental Super-Middleweight title against De Carolis (29-10-1 13 KOs), but there’s so much more at stake with bragging rights as the number one 168lber in the country to be settled on the night.

Scardina sits at 10 in the WBO rankings, so the bout presents the chance for the winner to crash into the top five and begin to eye the biggest fights in the division. The 29 year old recorded a pair of stoppage wins in 2021 in Milan as he returned to the ring from a 14 month absence, and picked up the title he defends in the second of those wins, dispatching Juergen Doberstein inside four rounds in October.

De Carolis, former WBA World champion, can reignite his title ambitions with victory over Scardina. The 37 year old battled Lerone Richards for the European title in May 2021 in London and after being outpointed by the Briton, he returned to winning ways over six rounds in his Roma backyard in October.

In support of Scardina and De Carolis, Spaniard Mary Romero (7-2 2 KOs) will make the second defence of her European Super-Bantamweight title against Italy’s Maria Cecchi (6-0 1 KO), the vacant Italian Super-Bantamweight title will be claimed by Vincenzo La Femina (10-0 5 KOs) or Matteo Lecca (9-2 4 KOs), and there’s eight round action for Welterweight Maxim Prodan (19-1-1 15 KOs), while Super-Welterweight Cristian Cangelosi (6-0 2 KOs) and Cruiserweight Oronzo Birardi (2-0 2 KOs) will fight in six rounder bouts. 

“It’s going to be an important and great fight,” said Scardina. “We are super focused; it will be a great show live worldwide on DAZN.”

“I am thrilled to compete with Daniele,” said   De Carolis. “It is a match that Italian boxing needs and it will attract great attention on an international level.”

Scardina and De Carolis will certainly attract the full attention of the unbeaten Zucco, who will look to land his first international strap against Nikolic, with the WBC International title on the line. Zucco (15-0 13 KOs) is leaving the domestic scene behind having landed the Italian title in April with a six round win over Luca Campano in Milan and took just three rounds to see off Ignazio Crivello in his first defense in his hometown in July. The 26 year old extended his KO streak to five with a fourth round stoppage of Giorgi Gujejiani in December, a 13th win inside the distance in 15 pro outings. Nikolic (28-1, 12 KOs ) will be out to stop the rise of the Italian, and the well-traveled and experienced Serbian takes on his fourth title fight in his 30th bout in the paid ranks.

Unbeaten Roma man Mirko Natalizi (11-0 7 KOs) fights for his first title against Welshman Tony Dixon (13-3 4 KOs) for the WBC International Silver Super-Welterweight title on the undercard that also features Francesco Grandelli (15-1-2 3 KOs) takes on Briton Kane Baker (17-8-1 1 KO) over ten rounds at Featherweight, Samuel Nmomah (16-0 5 KOs) meets Felice Moncelli (22-6-1 5 KOs) over eight rounds at Super-Welterweight, and there is six round action for Mauro Forte (Featherweight,16-0-2 6 KOs), Joshua Nmomah (Middleweight, 10-0 3 KOs), Giovanni Sarchioto (Middleweight, 2-0 2 KOs) and Voldy Toutin (Light-Heavyweight, 1-0).

“I am proud to headline an event of such an international importance in my hometown of Verbania,” said Zucco. “I will be ready to win the Green belt. As I have always said: "Verbania is inexpugnable!"

“Our boxing schedule at DAZN just keeps getting better as we put on shows around the world, this time in Italy with a huge all-Italian showdown between Daniele Scardina and Giovanni De Carolis and Ivan Zucco facing off against Marko Nikolic in his hometown,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “This are two cracking fights with homegrown talent looking to make a statement domestically and across the world scene. You do not want to miss out back-to-back Italian fight nights, live around the world on DAZN.”

“Delighted to be back in Italy with 2 shows on April 22 and May 13” said Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith. “We have been building over the years with Scardina and now the biggest domestic rival is happening in Milan on May 13. Following the pandemic is amazing to have fans back. Don’t miss it live and on demand on DAZN!”

“I want to thank Daniele Scardina and Giovanni De Carolis for accepting this fight,” said Christian Cherchi for OPI Since 82. “Without any doubts is the biggest fight Italian boxing can present at this time. We are expecting a sold-out arena and great viewers on DAZN. We are also very happy to promote the first International title of Ivan in his beautiful hometown of Verbania. His fight with Nikolic will be a step up in competition. Natalizi will challenge Dixon in his first title attempt and Grandelli will square off against Baker in a fight that promise fireworks. Don’t miss it live and on demand on DAZN.”

WOOD VS. CONLAN + UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Press Release

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“As I’ve said before, almost ten years since Carl Froch’s historic victory in Nottingham Arena, we’ve been looking to bring a mega-fight back to this city for some time. 10,000 sell-out on Saturday and the atmosphere is going to be incredible, 3000-4000 Irish also in attendance for what will be a tremendous match-up.

“This Saturday we have a solid undercard, so many great fights, great fighters, great prospects. People returning to the World Championship scene, people looking to make their mark in the world rankings.

“Just under 10,000 people in a sold-out arena will see a great fight with an incredible atmosphere. Huge support from the city of Nottingham and a huge number of Irish fans coming to see if Michael Conlan can become World Champion.”

Leigh Wood:

“I’m buzzing to be here, it’s been a long hard road to get here, back in 2014 that was a terrible night. I knew the reasons behind it, and I went away and corrected it. Same with both of the defeats I’ve suffered, I went away, changed my team and improved as a fighter. I stayed disciplined, lived the life and that’s why I’m bringing this big night back to Nottingham, I couldn’t be happier.

“I couldn’t be happier with my camp, my team, everything is on point. As Mick said, I’ve got the best version of him and he’s got the best version of me, there’s no excuses after the fight the best man will win.

“We rocked up at fight camp and people were basically saying good luck, thanks for turning up, we were taken aback and didn’t know what to say to them. I said in interviews I was going to win the fight, confidence has never been an issue with me, I’ve been confident when most kids didn’t have anything to smile about, I’ve been confident in the gym without fights and through injuries and defeats. I was confident in my ability and that I’d get there, now I’m here.

“This is fairy-tale sh*t, honestly, of all the arenas for Carl I was at in the seats screaming, I’m now headlining in the same arena. This isn’t the peak or where I stop, I’m going to go further than this. The city ground fight that you’ve tangled in front of me for so long, you [Eddie] said after this fight it’s happening, so I’ll hold you to that but eyes on Saturday night first. I’m coming to get the job done and look good doing it.”

Ben Davison:

“I’m over the moon with the training camp that Leigh’s had, preparation doesn’t stop until the first bell but we’re ready and very confident. Leigh knows exactly what he needs to do and it’s just a case of getting in there and doing it now.

“I think it’s just very easy for people to go ‘Mick on points’ or ‘Leigh by stoppage’, that’s the outcome people can see but as I said before I think Mick punches harder than people think and Leigh boxes better than what people think he does. People said the same thing when Leigh was boxing Can Xu, he can only win by knockout, not only did he nearly beat him quite widely by points, but he beat him in the twelfth round.

“I don’t believe that this is the two possible outcomes of the fight, I think both guys are very versatile and potentially momentum shifts throughout the fight and adjustments will have to made by both. It’s a fantastic fight and that’s why we’ve got a sold-out arena.

“I highly expect Leigh to thrive under this situation, I don’t think there’s any problems, Leigh’s one of the calmest fighters I’ve worked with in the changing room preparing for a fight. It’s just a case of getting in there and doing what he needs to do now.”

Michael Conlan:

“I’m ready to go, my confidence comes from preparation and my preparation has been fantastic. I’m very confident and very relaxed, we’re here in Nottingham and it’s time to go, there’s not much more to say other than I really can’t wait for Saturday night.

“I know what kind of performance is coming on Saturday night, this is the most relaxed and calm I’ve ever been in a fight week. I don’t feel any pressure, I’m here in the opponents back garden and I’ve got to rip the belt off him. Everyone’s here to see him, I’ve got fans coming in the thousands already so it’s nothing new.

“I’m just here to do a job, I hope Leigh has had a fantastic training camp, I hope he’s the best Leigh Wood there’s ever been because I believe I will be. It’ll make it all the sweeter when I beat him.

“I’m just expecting a fantastic performance by myself.”

Jamie Conlan:

“We came here six weeks ago full of confidence, we’ve come here today even more confident. Confident in the preparation that was put in over the last eight week, confident in the mindset that he’s brought into this fight and the mental attitude that he’s put into the camp and the challenges he’s faced in camp. We’ve come here to upset the applecart and spoil your boy’s party – send the Irish home happy.

“I fully expect Michael to become World Champion on Saturday. Regarding favourites and underdogs, we have no real thought on that. We’ve come in as the B side fighter and underdog mentality but we’re fully confident we’ll become world champion. I truly believe this is his destiny, Leigh Wood is just an obstacle in his way that we must overcome. This is Michael Conlan’s party, this is the one he’s coming to take home, and this is the one that the fans will be able to sing about and tell each other about in bars for years to come.

“I think that’s something that Leigh’s going to have to deal with, the mental stress he’s going to be under, I saw it last night when he was doing his workout. There’s going to mental pressure on him more so than on Michael, Michael has dealt with mental pressure throughout his career. He was thrown into the spotlight from day one, Leigh has done it when no one was watching, he won the world title in front of 25 people in your [Eddie] back garden.

“This is the big time, this is going to be where everyone is pressuring him on, expecting him to win – in his hometown as the favourite. In our hometown we’re the favourite, so the fans coming over are fully expecting Michael to win, fully expecting to be joyous on Saturday and going home with a new World Champion. As a family we’re just ready, we’ve been waiting for this for a long time, destiny is in front of us and Leigh is just another object in the way.”

Caoimhin Agyarko:

“I want to thank you [Eddie] for getting me on this card, especially straight after Christmas. It’s the opportunities I feel like I deserve, and I’ve been working hard, it’s a great card to be on and it’s going to be a very noisy night on Saturday. I can’t wait to just get in there and put on a good performance.

“We hoped to get the Hassan N'Dam fight, former World Champion, but he’s got a good record and I expect a tough fight Saturday night. I’ve prepared well and I’ve been sparring great, everything’s went to plan in camp, and I have no complaints. I just can’t wait to get in there and put on a good performance, I feel like you’re going to see a different side to my game on Saturday – Rubio being a southpaw. I feel like he’ll bring out the best in me in terms of that I can box a bit more and open up a bit more.

“That’s the plan, I want to headline shows in Belfast, it’s a great to be on this card with three other Irish fighters. I spent time on the Irish team with Garry and Thomas, I’ve boxed with Mick at training camps and he’s from my hometown. It’s a great opportunity for me on this card but the plan is to go back home, and headline shows by the end of the year. I feel like after this fight or one more in the summer I’ll be ready for a big name.”

Juan Carlos Rubio:

“I really enjoy taking on challenges and this will be another one for me. We did take the fight on very short notice, but we were already preparing, running and training waiting for this opportunity which presented itself.

“I’m going to come and give everything on Saturday, I want to give thanks to the champ for giving me the opportunity but yeah I’ll give it everything on Saturday.”

Terri Harper:

“It’s like I’ve never left now back at Lightweight. I’ve been trying to explain to my Grandma about moving up in weight and she said it’s only 5 pounds, but that 5 pounds makes a huge difference. I had a good training session and feel like I’ve got weeks of training left in me and I’m full of energy.

“I’m just happy to be back and excited to get back out there on Saturday night, show everyone what I’ve been working on. This camp was about taking everything back to the drawing board, going back to basics and making slight changes that have been needed to be made for a while.

“The fight’s been and gone now, it was a lesson learnt the hard way and I’m just excited to be here in the new weight division. I’m fully focused on what’s ahead and what’s to come this year.

“After the last fight I thought, everyone was going to go off and disappear but to be fair I’ve probably got more fans. I’m just grateful to everyone who’s been there since day one and we’re on this journey together through the highs and lows, I’m doing it for them really and they’re the reason I’m here.”

Yamila Belen Abellaneda:

“Here we are accepting the challenge, it was put to us, and I’m really pleased to be here. Once the offer came in, we took it with both hands.

“That’s what we’re here for. We’ve come here and put the work in, we’ve come to win.”

Gary Cully:

“I’ve been looking for this chance, calling your name since I was 2-0. I’m excited that it’s finally here, I’ve got a great opponent in front of me in Miguel Vazquez who’s been there and done it. It’s a big test for me as well and I’m looking forward to putting on an explosive performance on Saturday.

“I think 2022 is the year that I plan on making a statement in the world rankings and stepping up in challenge and winning World Titles, Vazquez is the first step in doing so. I’ve been building on the down low on the MTK shows, the smaller hall scene for the last couple of years putting in big performances. This is my first kind of show on the big stage and I’m looking forward to showing everyone what I can do.”  

Miguel Vazquez:

“I’m really happy to be here in the UK. I’m facing a great opponent so it’s great to have this opportunity once again to show people in the UK that I’m still a big thing in boxing.

“Apart from whether or not I won or lost that fight, whether it was a robbery, you can call it what you like. I'm just so happy to be back again on these shores and show again what I can do in the UK, it’s a wonderful country and I’m so happy to be here.”

Sandy Ryan:

“This is what I want, I said I want someone who’s coming to win, she’s trained for ten rounds like it’s a World Title. It’s going to be a good fight; I respect her as a fighter and she has fought great champions but I’m different and she’ll see that Saturday night.

“I’m going to make the fight the pace I want to make it at, we’ve got a good plan me and Cliff. Honestly, if I have to outbox this girl I will, if I have to go to war I’ll go to war.

“Even now the people are seeing it’s too early, when I believe in myself and my team believes in me, you’ll believe in me after this fight. I’m just ready for anybody.”

Erica Anabella Farias:

“When I was offered this fight, most fights I’ve had in my career have been for World Titles, so I train as if it’s a World Title fight and I’ve been training as if this was a World Title fight. I’m always ready and accept the big challenges and I think champions are built over time, so I’ll be facing up as if this is a World Title fight.

“I live for this sport; I enjoy every single moment whether it’s the press conference of the weigh-in. Like I said, I’m focused for every fight like it’s a World Title fight so you can expect me to go into the fight and coming out victorious. What I would say to Sandy Ryan is to keep her guard up.”

Nico Leivars:

“I remember when I first got the call and got told that I’d me on this card, it’s literally 20 minutes up the road from me – it’s my home city. I’m blessed to make my pro debut on such a big card, on my mate’s undercard as he defends his World Title in my home city. I’ll just need to go in there now and make a good transition from amateur to the pros and put on a good performance.

“We’ve got a good boxing scene in Nottingham and the surrounding areas, to get boxing in the city and on the big cards on TV is only good exposure and it’s going to spur everyone on in their careers. I think it’s good to put Nottingham and Mansfield in the spotlight.”

Thomas Carty:

“Me and Dillian had a chat after the last one and we were looking to make a bit of a plan and see when get out again. It made the most sense to get me on this card, I was calling for it to be honest because I knew it would be a massive event and as you can see it. Big shoutout to Dillian, Matchroom and the team for sorting it.

“I’m looking forward to Saturday, I have a lot of people coming over to watch me. People from Dublin haven’t been given many chances to go on big cards, to get the crowd over for big cards as of late. I’m absolutely delighted there will be a big crowd coming over on Saturday and hopefully progress on to the Irish Title before the end of the year. I’ll be the first person then to win it since Tyson Fury so looking forward to that.”

Thomas Whittaker Hart:

“I’ve had a terrible couple of years thinking my career was going to be over in the last twelve months but thankfully it’s not. I’ve got a good opportunity on another good show, I want to push on for titles at the end of the year.

“I want to try and get my hands on the British Title by the end of the year, it’s what I thought about a lot when I wasn’t too well and out of the ring. That’s all I could think about, not being there and not having those belts, it’s made me hungry and want it more – it could have done a lot for me as well."

MAYERLIN RIVAS PENS DEAL WITH MATCHROOM

Press Release

Super-Bantamweight champion targeting unification bouts

WBA World Super-Bantamweight champion Mayerlin Rivas has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom.

Rivas (16-4-2 10 KOs) landed the WBA strap in her last outing, travelling to Panama to beat unbeaten local favorite Laura Ledezma on points last February to bag the belt and become a two-weight World ruler in the process.

The Venezuelan won the WBA title at Bantamweight in June 2015 and made three defenses before moving up to 122lbs and won the WBA crown in her second title tilt at the weight, having been edged out via split decision for the IBF title Marcela Acuna in Argentina in October 2018.

‘La Monita’ is looking to take on fellow champions Yamileth Mercado (WBC) and Segolene Lefebvre (WBO) and an eye on the winner of Cherneka Johnson and Melissa Esquivel who clash for the IBF belt in April, and the 34 year old cannot wait to get back into action.

“I am thrilled to be joining Matchroom,” said Rivas. “There’s so many big fights out there for me with the champions at my weight, where I want to unify and become undisputed. Fights up at Featherweight would be huge too and I know that there are many rising stars that would be great fights too, so I am looking forward to getting back between the ropes and showing what I do best.”

“It’s great to welcome Mayerlin to the team,” said Hearn. “Mayerlin is hungry for more belts at 122lbs, and we want to make those unification fights so she can achieve her goal of being undisputed. There are big fights on both sides of the Atlantic for her to get her teeth into, and her return to the ring will be announced soon.”

BENN MEETS VAN HEERDEN ON APRIL 16

Press Release 

'The Destroyer' takes on 'The Heat' in Manchester

Conor Benn will defend his WBA Continental Welterweight Title against South Africa’s Chris Van Heerden at the AO Arena in Manchester on Saturday April 16, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

‘The Destroyer’ (20-0, 13 KOs) secured a stunning knockout win over former World Champion Chris Algieri last time out in December, taking out the American with a brutal right hand in the fourth round of their top of the bill clash at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.

The 25-year-old contender from Essex holds top ten rankings with the WBA, WBO and IBF after notching three wins during a breakout 2021 – and the British star believes that 2022 will be an even bigger year for him as he works towards a World Title shot. 

‘The Heat’ (28-2-1, 12 KOs), born in Johannesburg, South Africa, previously held the IBO Welterweight World Title from 2011 until 2013, beating Kaizer Mabuza, Sebastian Andres Lujan and Matthew Hatton during his Title reign.

Now residing in Santa Monica, California, USA the 34-year-old southpaw is eager to test himself against one of the fastest rising Welterweights in world boxing and should provide valuable rounds having only been stopped once by Errol Spence in 32 fights.

A huge undercard sees Bournemouth’s European Cruiserweight Champion Chris Billam-Smith (14-1, 10 KOs) rematch Belfast’s former champion Tommy McCarthy (18-3, 9 KOs) following their epic back and forth battle at the Matchroom HQ last summer. 

‘The Gentleman’ withstood a late fightback from McCarthy as he edged out a narrow split points decision to add the British and European Cruiserweight Titles to his Commonwealth Title, before defending his EBU crown with a points win over Dylan Bregeon in Sheffield. 

Manchester Super-Featherweight contender Zelfa Barrett (27-1, 16 KOs) looks to build on his impressive IBF World Title Eliminator win over Australia’s Bruno Tarimo on the Parker vs. Chisora 2 undercard when he challenges European Champion Faroukh Kourbanov (19-3, 3 KOs) – a former opponent of Joe Cordina. 

Hard hitting Cruiserweight talent Jordan Thompson (12-0, 10 KOs) has scored two big first round knockouts since putting pen to paper on a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn last June, and the 28-year-old from Manchester will be out to impress his home fans again as he works towards his first Title shot in 2022.

Hyde Lightweight prospect Campbell Hatton (6-0, 2 KOs) quickly returns to action after earning the best win of his career over Joe Ducker last month, Little Lever’s Jack Cullen (20-3-1, 9 KOs) aims to bounce back from his stoppage loss to Kevin Lele Sadjo in December and Alnwick Welterweight Cyrus Pattinson (3-0, 1 KO) hopes to make it two wins from two fights in 2022.

"I’m excited to step into the ring with Chris Van Heerden," said Benn. "Van Heerden is a tough operator and a southpaw who will be in there giving it his all in every round. For me and my team it’s now about fighting every style that we can face as we continue to head towards World Championship status and Van Heerden brings something different to the table than I’ve not faced before.

"With that being said this is another stepping stone for me on my journey to the top, I haven’t seen anything in Van Heerden’s previous fights that I can’t deal with, and I expect another explosive victory on April 16. If he comes to fight or he wants to box, I can deliver that smoke either way! The AO Arena has to be one of the most exciting venues to fight in. I love Manchester. I get shown a lot of love and support up in Manchester – it’s a fighting city. I bring the entertainment every time I fight and I can’t wait for April 16.”

"Sometimes it takes 10 years for that one year to come around that completely changes your life," said Van Heerden. "This is my year. I want to thank Conor Benn for taking the fight, knowing that I'm coming to beat him in his backyard. I also want to thank Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing for taking this risk and my manager Peter Kahn for getting this fight done. I am looking forward to putting on a show in Manchester on DAZN."

“Conor Benn is fast becoming one of the biggest stars in British Boxing and he faces by far the toughest test of his career to date when he takes on Chris Van Heerden in Manchester on April 16,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Van Heerden has mixed at the very highest level and faced fearsome Welterweight ‘Boots’ Ennis last time out before the fight was ruled a no contest due to a clash of heads - he always comes to fight, and I expect a gruelling battle for Conor. We are building an action-packed card and already announce the rematch of one of the Fight of the Year contender between Chris Billam-Smith and Tommy McCarthy and local star Zelfa Barrett challenges for the European Title. I expect another blistering statement from Conor Benn live worldwide on DAZN.”

“We are excited to welcome back one of the brightest prospects in boxing, Conor Benn, to the platform when he takes on former IBO Welterweight Champion Chris Van Heerden on April 16,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “This is another huge test for Conor as he continues his quest to capture a World Title in 2022. We pride ourselves in having the best schedule in boxing, and with the announce of this matchup in April and early May you will see Canelo Alvarez, Ryan Garcia, GGG, Taylor vs. Serrano and Conor all fighting live on DAZN.”

Tickets are priced £40, £60, £100, £150 and £300 (VIP).

FightPass tickets will be available to purchase for Matchroom Boxing FightPass members from midday on Thursday March 10 via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com)

General Sale tickets will be available to purchase from midday on Friday March 11 via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and the AO Arena (www.ao-arena.com).

POUND-FOR-POUND SUPERSTAR CANELO ALVAREZ SIGNS MULTI FIGHT DEAL WITH MATCHROOM AND DAZN

Press Release

POUND-FOR-POUND SUPERSTAR CANELO ALVAREZ SIGNS MULTI FIGHT DEAL WITH MATCHROOM AND DAZN

May 7 Fight Confirmed Against Light-Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol

Pound-for-pound superstar Canelo Alvarez (57-1-2, 30 KOs) has signed a new multi-fight deal with Matchroom Boxing and DAZN. The first fight will see boxing’s biggest attraction step up in weight to take on Dmitry Bivol (19-0, 11 KOs) in a bid for the WBA Light-Heavyweight title on May 7. The second fight in the multi-fight deal is set for September.

The May 7 blockbuster will be available to subscribers around the world on DAZN, excluding Latin America and Mexico. In the U.S. & Canada, the event will be offered exclusively on DAZN Pay-Per View (PPV) - newly introduced for very select events to come - and priced at $59.99 for current subscribers and $79.99 for new subscribers (inclusive of a one month subscription to DAZN).

Canelo Alvarez claimed the IBF Super-Middleweight strap last time out against a tough Caleb Plant, becoming the first boxer ever to become undisputed champion at Super-Middleweight. Prior to that, the Mexican star picked up the WBA, WBC, WBO and The Ring Magazine Super-Middleweight titles against Callum Smith and Billy Joe Saunders respectively, all within a year to make history and cement his spot as the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world, a memorable period that saw the 31 year old bag numerous fighter of the year awards including ESPN, Sports Illustrated and Ring Magazine.

Dmitry Bivol has been flawless in the paid ranks and now bags the blockbuster showdown he’s been craving in the form of boxing’s pound-for-pound king Canelo. Bivol picked up the WBA Light-Heavyweight title in 2016 and has defended it an impressive ten times already to become of the best active Light-Heavyweight fighters in the world.

"I am very happy with this fight against Dmitry Bivol,” said Canelo. “It is another great challenge for me and my career -- especially as I go up in weight and face an exceptional light heavyweight champion like Bivol.

"I am also very excited that we have this fight slated for Cinco De Mayo Weekend - May 7 - for all the fans to enjoy. We will be ready, like we always are." 

“I always only wanted to fight the best!” said Bivol. “I believe that the rest of my goals will begin materialize on May 7!”

“It is an absolutely honour to announce a multi fight promotional deal with the pound-for-pound king Canelo Alvarez,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Canelo transcends boxing and is the biggest star in the sport and we look forward to promoting some historic nights in 2022 live on DAZN PPV. First up, Saul takes on yet another champion, this time in the shape of fearsome undefeated WBA Light-Heavyweight king Dmitry Bivol. Fans can expect a thrilling all-action match up and we look forward the pair coming face to face at a press conference in San Diego next Wednesday.”

“Bivol vs Canelo, this is going to be a very competitive and interesting fight,” said Andrei Ryabinskiy of World of Boxing. “I am very glad that we were able to make this happen, for Dmitry this is a big chance!”

“This will be a great night of boxing where two of the best collide for the highest recognition in the sport!” said Bivol’s manager, Vadim Kornilov. “The victor on May 7 will go on to become the biggest name in boxing for many more years to come!”

“We’re delighted to continue growing our long-term partnership with Canelo, beginning with a spectacular clash between the pound-for-pound king and a very tough and determined champ in Dmitry Bivol,” said Ed Breeze, DAZN EVP, Rights. “Both fighters were eager for this battle and we’re thrilled to make it happen around the world on DAZN as well as in the U.S. & Canada by way of the introduction of DAZN PPV. It’s a truly mega matchup and we look forward to broadcasting it to fight fans all over the globe.”

2022 – At A Glance

Aside from the May 7 event, DAZN’s schedule for U.S. subscribers in 2022 is strong as ever, including the below with dozens more still to come:

February 5: Carlos Cuadras vs. Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez (Winner)

February 12: Daniel Jacobs vs. John Ryder (Winner)

February 19: Jaime Munguía (Winner) vs. D’Mitrius Ballard 

February 27: Lawrence Okolie vs. Michal Cieslak

March 5:  Chocolatito III vs. Julio Cesar Martinez

March 12: Leigh Wood vs. Michael Conlan 

March 19: Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Michael McKinson 

March 26: Kiko Martinez vs. Josh Warrington II 

April 9: Ryan Garcia vs. Emmanuel Tagoe

April 30: Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 

May 7: Canelo Alvarez vs. Dmitry Bivol (Live Exclusively on DAZN PPV)

The May 7 Canelo vs. Bivol mega matchup will be on DAZN PPV in the U.S., marking the first of very occasional events to come that will be sparingly offered to fight fans on top of a DAZN subscription. This event is priced at $59.99 for current subscribers on the app and $79.99 for new subscribers (inclusive of one month’s subscription to DAZN).

The DAZN subscription in the U.S. is currently priced at $19.99 a month or just $99.99 for an entire year (which equates to only $8.33 per month). At this unrivalled value, existing subscribers will continue to enjoy a stacked boxing schedule of at least 50 top-tier fight nights annually, discounted PPV events, and an ever-growing slate of DAZN Originals including many of the most fascinating stories and figures in boxing.

New subscribers to DAZN in the U.S. can continue to take advantage of the current annual subscription cost of $99.99 until May 2.  Those signing up for an annual subscription after May 2 will be charged the new annual price of $149.99 (which still just equates to only $12.50 per month). Existing subscribers will be grandfathered in at their current $99.99 annual subscription cost.

Media contacts:

Team Canelo – Jane Murcia – pr@caneloteam.com

DAZN – Fred Mellor – Fred.Mellor@dazn.com

DAZN – Sam Kelly – Samuel.Kelly@dazn.com

Matchroom – Anthony Leaver – anthony.leaver@matchroom.com

GILL: THIS EUROPEAN TITLE FIGHT MEANS EVERYTHING TO ME

Press Release 

'The Thrill' challenges Guerfi at The O2

Jordan Gill is hoping to put a frustrating 2021 behind him when he clashes with European Featherweight Champion Karim Guerfi on the undercard of Lawrence Okolie's WBO Cruiserweight World Title defence against Michael Cieslak at The O2 in London this Sunday February 27, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

'The Thrill' (26-1-1, 7 KOs) was originally scheduled to face Frenchman Guerfi on the undercard of Conor Benn vs. Chris Algieri at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool on December 11, but the two-weight European Champion was forced to withdraw from their Merseyside showdown due to an illness.

Gill suffered a horrific cut in the third round of his eight rounder with late stand in opponent Alan Luques Castillo - the 27-year-old was forced to accept a technical draw after the gruesome head clash. The Chatteris man is aiming to kickstart his World Title push by dethroning 34-year-old Guerfi in his first fight for 2022. 

“I remember laying on the bed and getting stitches afterwards," said Gill. "It was one of those things that could have happened to anyone at any time. It’s unfortunate that it happened to me. It was a nasty head clash – there was no way the fight was going to continue. When they stitched my head up, they stitched around the artery – it was that deep! It’s lucky that it was on my head and not my face, otherwise it would have been a plastic surgery job. It’s good in one way, bad in another. 

“I had a week off and then I was straight back in the gym, keeping fit and keeping my mind active. I knew I was always going to be Mandatory for the European Title. It wasn’t a fight lost because of the technical draw. All in all it was a frustrating 2021 but that’s behind us now and we look forward. 2022 is our year, I’m looking forward to this fight and pushing on to bigger and better things. 

“He’s a very good fighter, you can’t take that away from him. I fully respect him – he’s the champion. He did it against the odds, he’s been to the champion’s backyard and won the Title. He’s very experienced and he’s coming to the latter stages of his career. He’s had some big fights, I think he’s a four or five time European Champion. He’s established and he’s a very good pro. I’m looking forward to mixing it with him.

“As the fight gets nearer, I’m thinking of new ways to beat him. I’m thinking of new things to add to my game. We’re not so much preparing for Guerfi, but we’re preparing myself for the best that I can be. I’m looking forward to the fight. I feel like it has been a long time coming. This is my life. I dedicate my life to boxing. I take myself away from my family. I’m here in Rotherham, working every day. This European Title fight means everything to me, my family and the area that I’m representing. 

“I think I’m going to put on an absolute masterclass and stop Guerfi mid to late rounds and I’m going to push on, beat up that dosser Isaac Lowe and get a World Title shot. Guerfi is ranked 10th or 11th with the WBC. We’ve just got a new WBC Featherweight Champion. I know he’s got to fight his Mandatory for his first defence but after that I can get the winner."

Gill vs. Guerfi is part of a huge night of Title action, Hackney's WBO Cruiserweight World Champion Lawrence Okolie (17-0, 14 KOs) makes the second defence of his crown against Poland's former World Title challenge Michal Cieslak (21-1, 15 KOs), Tokyo Olympic Champion Galal Yafai makes his highly anticipated professional debut in a ten round fight for the vacant WBC International Flyweight Title against Mexico's Carlos Vado Bautista (10-4-1, 3 KOs) Liverpool Middleweight Anthony Fowler (15-2, 12 KOs) faces Poland's Lukasz Maciec (27-3-1, 5 KOs) over ten rounds, unbeaten Ipswich Heavyweight Fabio Wardley (12-0, 11 KOs) takes on the USA's Daniel Martz (20-9-1, 17 KOs) over ten rounds, Tokyo Olympian Cheavon Clarke makes his professional debut at Cruiserweight against Croatia's Toni Visic (20-29-2, 5 KOs), Lightweight prospect Campbell Hatton (5-0, 1 KO) clashes with Joe Ducker (9-8-2, 2 KOs) over six rounds, Takeley Light-Heavyweight John Hedges (4-0) meets Aleksander Nagolski (2-1, 1 KO) over six rounds and Australian Heavyweight contender Demsey McKean (20-0, 13 KOs) takes on Argentina's Ariel Esteban Bracamonte (11-6, 6 KOs) over eight rounds. 

JACOBS: I WANT TO BE A TWO-WEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION

Press Release

'Miracle Man' meets Ryder at Alexandra Palace

Two-time Middleweight World Champion Daniel Jacobs insists that he still has plenty left to achieve in his career as he prepares to face Islington's John Ryder in an Eliminator for the WBA Super-Middleweight World Title this Saturday February 12 at Alexandra Palace in London, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

The 35-year-old Brooklyn native (37-3, 30 KOs) earned a split decision win over two-time World Title challenger Gabriel Rosado last time out in November 2020 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Hollywood, just under a year on from his fifth round stoppage win against Mexico's Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. 

Despite his inactivity, the former WBA and IBF Middleweight ruler, who has taken pound for pound stars Gennadiy Golovkin and Saul Alvarez the distance, still has a burning desire to mix it with the best in the world and write his name into the history books as a two-weight World Champion. 

“I’m looking forward to a good scrap," said Jacobs. "He’s a good fighter from what I’ve seen. I know he’s in his hometown so I’m expecting him to be pumped and excited about it. Also I’ve heard from him before that this is an important fight for him to get towards title contention. I’m looking forward to seeing exactly everything that he has to bring. 

“It has been one of my goals as a professional to fight in the UK, probably in London because I’ve been here before and I know how the magic works. I know how deep the crowd is into their  boxing. I look forward to experiencing that. Good city, good town, good people. 

“Everything is fabulous, I’m back to where I need to be mentally and I realise that now coming back with my old trainer Andre Rozier and Anthony Irons things are where they need to be. I was missing that good spirit that I once had in my career, and now it’s back and I’m looking forward to presenting it and giving the fans a good show. 

“Every fight is must-win. Every time you go in the ring you don’t go into a fight looking at it like, ‘If I lose this one the next one will still be a good opportunity’. There’s always going to be a step back if you lost a fight in boxing. I’m grateful that I still have the opportunity to have these big fights. The biggest goal for me right now is to stay focused and keep the eye on the tiger. 

“Granted we win this fight, which I’m sure we will, my next fight should be an opportunity to become a two division World Champion. I have the opportunity to do that and this guy is in the way. I have to make an example but also be myself. This camp I’ve been myself the entire time. I can’t ask for anything better."

Jacobs vs. Ryder tops a huge night of action, undefeated Wokingham Middleweight talent Felix Cash (14-0, 10 KOs) faces unbeaten Russian Magomed Madiev (15-0-2, 4 KOs) for the WBC International Title, Romford Heavyweight sensation Johnny Fisher (4-0, 4 KOs) takes on Spain's Gabriel Enguema (10-11, 6 KOs) over six rounds in front over 2,200 of his supporters, Catford's Ellie Scotney (3-0) goes for her first title when she clashes with Argentina's Jorgelina Guanini (9-3-2, 1 KO) for the WBA International Super-Bantamweight crown, undefeated Texas Middleweight Austin 'Ammo' Williams (9-0, 7 KOs) fights in London for the second time as he meets Javier Francisco Maciel (33-15, 23 KOs) over eight rounds, Leeds Super-Bantamweight Hopey Price (6-0, 2 KOs) fights Ricardo Roman (14-12-3, 5 KOs) over six rounds, Ashington Welterweight Cyrus Pattinson (2-0, 1 KO) fights Evgenii Vazem (9-21, 4 KOs) over six rounds and Welterweight prospect Shiloh Defreitas (2-0, 2 KOs) fights Alexey Tukhtarov (4-23-6, 3 KOs) over six rounds. 

KATIE TAYLOR VS. AMANDA SERRANO LONDON PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Press Release

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“An incredible building here for an incredible fight, an incredible moment for the sport of boxing. April 30 the undisputed Lightweight Championship between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano – live on DAZN from Madison Square Garden.

“We all felt and hoped that this event would be a game changer, this event would iconic, historic and break the records. Last week for the pre-sale we recorded the second biggest pre-sale in the history of boxing in 140 years at Madison Square Garden.

“Of course, this is the biggest female fight of all time but it’s also one of the biggest fights in boxing, April 30 the world will stop to watch these two great fighters change the sport and take women’s boxing to a new level.”

Joseph Markowski, EVP, DAZN:

“I think this is a fight that transcends not only women’s boxing but potentially if we get this right to transcend the sport of boxing. The energy in New York last week, the tickets sales, the turnout from the media today, the reaction on social media, Jake’s involvement. There are so many ingredients to this that give it the potential to really cut through.

“When you have the opportunity with a boxing event to really cut through to mainstream sport, you want to give it your best shot, and we’re determined to do that. We’ve got a couple of months to do that with a fantastic group of people pushing it, we’re really excited about the opportunity we’ve got to celebrate women’s sport and go beyond the four walls of boxing.

“Eddie and I have been in the States last week and he’s been stopped in the streets to talk about this fight far more than you would do for a women’s boxing event. I think that we’re seeing that it’s cutting through, we’re confident when we look at your numbers, the numbers on social media, the numbers on the content we’ve already got.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to grow our subscription audience and drive a massive audience on DAZN in many countries around the world – notably here in the UK, Ireland and over the States. A huge opportunity and one we’re really excited about.” 

Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions:

“This all started because of you [Eddie] and Joe when Jake made his debut on DAZN just two years ago. To think we’re here now with the biggest fight in women’s history, the biggest fight in boxing this year, is of course a credit to Eddie Hearn, Matchroom, DAZN, to Katie and Amanda, but also to my partner Jake Paul.

“Jake in little over two years have shaken combat sports upside down and is now sitting next to Eddie Hearn as co-promoter at age 25. There’s a guy on Boxxer that claims to be the youngest promoter in the UK, the youngest promoter in the UK is sitting on this stage right now and his name is promoter Paul.

“Jake and I have been very fortunate in our careers today, mine longer than his given I’m a lot older, we don’t need to be doing this, but we want to be doing this. This is a privilege, an honour, this is something that’s disrupting sports as a whole led by Jake, Katie and Amanda.”

Jake Paul, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions, professional boxer and content creator:

“This is very serious, I’m just excited for April 30th first and foremost. People better get their tickets at MSG.com because otherwise they’ll be sitting in the nosebleed section the way these tickets are selling.

“I want to give these ladies a round of applause for what they’re doing, what most people in boxing aren’t doing, the pound-for-pound two best going at it. This is what boxing needs more of whether it’s male or female, they’re putting it all on the line for this fight which is what makes it big.

“This is unprecedented and more boxers across the sport should take notes from these two ladies, make the big fights happen if you’re one of the pound-for-pound best and tell your promoters you want these fights. That’s what these ladies did and that’s why we’re here.

“To me it doesn’t matter because I’m passionate about it, if people want to show me respect then cool, if not then cool. I’m still going to be doing my thing but like the hat says, all I want to do is bring more to this sport than I took from it – that’s what I want to do.

“I believe Amanda will win, stylistically. All credit to Katie Taylor she has an amazing career and is an amazing person, but stylistically the way Amanda comes forward and her body shots. We saw Katie Taylor have a little bit of trouble with that against Persoon and she was head hunting and not necessarily going towards the body. That’s what Amanda brings, a power puncher that comes forward, unlimited cardio, that’s why I’m excited about this. Obviously, it’s going to be a great fight, but I believe in Amanda.” 

Amanda Serrano, seven-weight World champion:

“I want to thank London for having me, it’s a beautiful city. The struggle has been real but I’m super happy and excited that I’ve finally get to see a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel with this fight with Katie Taylor. We’re making history and that’s what I want to do, I want to continue to open the doors for the new generation coming into the sport.

“I’m a woman for equality and we all talk about equality, on this table multiple times, we’re making history at the Garden being the first women to headline. We’re making the biggest payday for both of us, and I think we should just continue to make this iconic, make changes to this game and if Katie Taylor is willing and ready and able to make this an equal fight of 12 rounds of 3 minutes. If we want to make change, I think we should pave it right now on DAZN. This is all about equality and we should make the change right now.

“I understand that this fight is iconic but if we want to make a change for the future and get people to notice it, get these promoters to not talk badly about women, I think we need to take a stand.

“My plan is to fight smart, to be smart on April 30. I know I have all the tools to beat Katie Taylor, I just have to go out there and be smart – victory will be mine.

“I have everything, there’s no questioning my heart, my skills, my power and my chin. There’s nothing I think Katie Taylor has that will answer the questions that need to be answered. I have Latin blood and all the heart in the world.” 

Katie Taylor, undisputed World Lightweight champion:

“I don’t think changing to 12 3 minute rounds will make a difference, this event is already iconic the way it is. The fact the pre-sales are the second best in MSG history says it all really, this fight is more important than we realise, and this proves that the perceptions have changed already. Boxing is boxing regardless, and the fight is already iconic the way it is.

“I think we’re making a stand the way we’re actually fighting each other in the first place, the best fighting the best. This fight is going to determine the best pound-for-pound female fighter in the world so we’re already making a stand by taking this fight.

“This is the fight I’ve wanted from the get-go, ever since I turned pro, I had me sights set on Serrano. I’m just so excited the fight is happening now; I do genuinely believe this is the best fight and most exciting fight in boxing right now. The fact it’s headlining Madison Square Garden and the pre-sales were the second best in boxing history, means this fight is more important than we realise and proves that there is a strong appetite with the public for these big female fights.

“Not only are we breaking the ceiling for female purses, but we have actually changed perceptions of the sport and if our careers have only achieved that then all the hard days in the gym have been absolutely worth it.

“I’m obviously expecting the toughest fight of my career and I’m expecting that, I know that I won’t be found short on grit and heart, I know my mind can take me to places I have no right to go because I’ve been there before both in the gym and on big nights. The whole world has seen me do it, I don’t think anybody has ever asked the question has Katie got what it takes to go to that place and win the fight in the trenches, that question has been answered. I’m not sure that Amanda has answered that question yet and her legacy will depend on the answer to that question, and I guess we’ll find out April 30.”