Friday, September 27, 2019

Spence-Porter Weights

The official weigh-in for Saturday’s World Welterweight championship unification bout between undefeated International Boxing Federation (IBF) world champion Errol Spence and World Boxing Council (WBC) world champion Shawn Porter took place earlier today in Los Angeles, CA. The official weights for the card, which will be televised by Fox Sports Pay-Per-View in the United States are as follows.

Main Event: IBF/WBC Welterweight World Championship Unification Bout - 12Rds.

Errol Spence (IBF champion) 147lbs. vs. Shawn Porter (WBC champion) 147lbs.

WBC Super-Middleweight World Championship - 12Rds.

Anthony Dirrell (Champion) 167 1/2lbs. vs. David Benavidez 167 1/2lbs.

Jr. Welterweight - 12Rds.*

Mario Barrios 140lbs. vs. Batyr Akhmedov 139 1/4lbs.

(*Fight will determine an interim/regular champion designation in the World Boxing Association Jr. Welterweight ratings.)

Welterweight- 10Rds.

Josesito Lopez 146 1/2lbs. vs. John Molina 146 1/4lbs.

Welterweight- 10Rds.

Robert Guerrero 146 3/4lbs. vs. Gerald Thomas 147 1/2lbs

Spence vs. Porter takes place tomorrow night (Saturday, September 28th) at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA. The card can be seen in the United States on cable and satellite providers on Fox Sports Pay-Per-View for $74.99 and can also be viewed on the Fox Sports app on mobile, tablet and connected streaming devices. Contact your cable satellite provider or to stream the card on the Fox Sports app please visit: www.FoxSports.com/PPV to order. The pay-per-view broadcast will begin at 9PM ET/6PM PT. A portion of undercard bouts will be broadcast on Fox Sports 1 on cable/satellite as well as the Fox Sports app beginning at 7:30PM ET/4:30PM PT. (U.S. Time) Check your local listings internationally.

For more information about the card please visit: www.premierboxingchampions.com.

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison


DAZN UNVEILS FALL CAMPAIGN – IT’S FIGHT SEASON ON DAZN


Credit: DAZN
Press Release: By DAZNNEW YORK I September 26, 2019: DAZN’s fall campaign in the U.S. – It’s Fight Season on DAZN – has landed. Further differentiating itself from others in the sport of boxing, the sports streaming platform’s new campaign pivots from the more traditional, one-off event promotion to instead highlight DAZN’s entire fall fight season that will feature boxing’s biggest matchups. As the only place to watch Gennadiy “GGG” Golovkin back in title contention on Oct. 5, Canelo Alvarez jump up two weight classes in a championship clash on Nov. 2, and the highly-anticipated rematch between Andy Ruiz and Anthony Joshua on Dec. 7, DAZN has amassed one of the best schedules in boxing history.

DAZN’s new campaign features highlight reels of each of these four superstars juxtaposed against an evocative track titled “The Impossible Dream,” eliciting the wide range of emotions and piercing intensity that fighters experience throughout their journey by bringing viewers closer to the rawness of the sport – the training, the anticipation, the fans, the drama, and ultimately, the culmination of it all inside the ring. Dentsu Aegis Network’s 360i created the ads.

The 60-second spot will debut on NBC during the Dallas Cowboys vs. New Orleans Saints Sunday Night Football game on September 29. From there, the full campaign, which will include 30-second, 15-second and six-second video ads, will run on linear and digital platforms including Notre Dame Football and English Premier League on NBC, CBS, Turner, Comedy Central, Adult Swim, the History Channel, A&E, Telemundo, Univision, Bleacher Report, Complex, as well as targeted addressable media with select cable and satellite providers, and more. Notably, the 30-second spot will continue to run on Sunday Night Football every week through the Nov. 2 Canelo vs. Kovalev title fight. A campaign extension in the form of a local Hispanic grassroots campaign is also planned for all of October in Los Angeles, including experiential pop-up events centered around Canelo.

“Premiering our new campaign during Sunday Night Football is fitting given the parallels between the two sports,” said Robert Stecklow, SVP of Marketing for DAZN North America. “Just as fans are used to football delivering an entire season of star athletes, big moments, major rivalries, and huge upsets, DAZN has introduced the concept of an entire fight season that is loaded week after week with incredible talent and can’t-miss action.”

Other major matchups this fight season on DAZN include Oleksandr Usyk's long-awaited heavyweight debut, World Boxing Super Series final clashes Regis Prograis vs. Josh Taylor and Naoya Inoue vs. Nonito Donaire Jr., Bellator MMA’s Featherweight World Grand Prix opening rounds and their Welterweight World Grand Prix’s final million dollar title clash between Rory MacDonald and Douglas Lima, YouTube sensations KSI and Logan Paul going pro for their much buzzed about rematch, and more.

DAZN offers an annual pass for $99.99 and a monthly option at $19.99 for those customers who prefer more flexibility.
 
Credit: DAZN

About DAZN:
DAZN is the largest global sports streaming platform in the world. Since launching in 2016, DAZN has expanded across four continents with the app currently available for download in the United States, Canada, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, Japan and Brazil. In the U.S., DAZN has made its mark as an attractive alternative to pay-per-view within the combat sports industry. The platform features big fights from Matchroom Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions, GGG Promotions, Bellator MMA, the World Boxing Super Series and Combate Americas, all for one affordable price, on any device - including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, games consoles and PCs. DAZN also features live MLB action each day of the season with its new daily show, ChangeUp. The much-anticipated daily program The Pat McAfee Show launched in September.

Material and Photos Courtesy of DAZN Used with permission.

For more information about DAZN including schedules, availability around the world, compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, and to subscribe please visit: www.DAZN.com.

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.


Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Reagan Dessaix Continues Title-Winning Streak With Fourth-Round KO Win


Credit: Warren S Photography

Press Release: September 25, 2019 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Reagan Dessaix continued to show why he is far beyond his years as he dispatched of Aaron Lai in the fourth round of their OBPF Light Heavyweight title fight at the Paddo Rugby League Club, Paddington last weekend. 

Dessaix competed in his third title fight of the calendar year, with his only loss coming in extremely controversial fashion on away soil to former world champion Blake Caparello. 

Since the Caparello fight, the 23-year-old Dessaix has won back to back titles via stoppage victory and 'The President' discussed his latest victory.

Dessaix said, "Firstly I would like to thank my manager Tony Tolj for getting me this opportunity and once again progressing me up the rankings in various governing bodies which was my goal for the year. I want to be a world champion so my focus has been to push up the world ratings and Tony has really done his best to make that happen.

"I was happy with my performance and happy to get another stoppage victory against a strong opponent. It was nice to pick up another prestigious title and hopefully, this opens me up for some more big fights in the latter end of the year/early 2020."

Dessaix has already made waves in the professional ranks for someone who still falls under the 'youth' category with all of the world's governing bodies. The Queensland native opened up on what he foresees for himself in the latter stages of the year and into 2020.

He said, "I want to continue progressing up the world rankings but I firmly believe I am ready for big fights. I proved that against Caparello and I would love that rematch but I don't see it happening. 

"I want to win more titles and want those big fights. I'd love to go and box abroad, somewhere like the United States or Europe and challenge myself against the best, I believe that is the natural next step and I believe I have the team to take me there" 

Material Courtesy of Dragon Fire Boxing/ Photo Courtesy of Warren S Photography Used with permission.

For more information about Dragon Fire Boxing please visit Dragon Fire Boxing’s official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/DragonFireBoxing

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.



Monday, September 23, 2019

Update



We would like to let our readers know that new material will be released here on the website on Wednesday, October 2nd. Stay tuned. “And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison 

Friday, September 20, 2019

Belated Mexican Independence Day Weekend 2019 Thoughts



Following an exciting card that took place at the Theater in Madison Square Garden on September 13th highlighted by undefeated Lightweight contender Devin Haney continuing his rise and a battle between two world champions that will ultimately serve as another step forward for Women’s Boxing, Mexican Independence Day weekend 2019 in the sport of Boxing concluded with another exciting night of Boxing action. The weekend however, was not without its share of controversy.

One of the cards that took place on September 14th from the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA that was broadcast on digital sports streaming network DAZN was to have featured the return of undefeated Lightweight prospect Ryan Garcia as he looked to continue his own rise toward contention in the 135lb. Lightweight division against Avery Sparrow of Philadelphia, PA. The fight, which was to be the semi-main event of the card headlined by undefeated WBO Jr. Middleweight world champion Jaime Munguia’s title defense against Patrick Allotey did not take place. This was due to Sparrow being arrested the day before the fight on an outstanding warrant stemming from a domestic dispute that occurred in Philadelphia in April of this year.

While the news of what ultimately became a cancellation of the fight seemed to come out of nowhere, other issues arose in the aftermath. While the circumstances that have happened in the days since could likely be a column in of itself, there was what amounted to an in pass between Garcia and his promoter Golden Boy Promotions, which was unable to secure an agreement for the unbeaten prospect to face a substitute opponent, who at one point was rumored to be Lightweight contender Romero Duno. With Garcia not competing, the card went on. Duno was successful in his previously scheduled bout in scoring a seventh round knockout over Ivan Delgado.

 Women’s WBC Super-Middleweight world champion Franchon Dezurn scored an impressive ten round unanimous decision over Maricela Conejo, a rematch of a fight from September of last year, which was also won by Dezurn. It was a rematch however, that came as a result of original opponent Alejandra Jimenz, the current Women’s WBC Heavyweight world champion pulling out of the fight due to issues securing a visa to travel from Mexico for the fight.

What impressed me about this fight was not only the willingness of both fighters to take a fight on short notice, but also their willingness to exchange with each other. Dezurn’s first title defense did not come easily as Conejo landed some effective counter punches and hooks throughout the fight. Dezurn’s consistent jab and ring generalship, and seemingly harder punches were enough for her to get the nod from the three official judges. The hard-fought victory for Dezurn however, also earned her status as a unified world champion in adding the vacant WBO world championship to her crown.

Coming out of this fight, it would not surprise me to see Dezurn possibly seek another opportunity against Claressa Shields, whom she has fought as both an amateur and professional and who remains her only professional loss to date. I was however, looking forward to the interesting style match up between Dezurn and Alejandra Jimenz, if the fight took place as originally scheduled. The possibility certainly exists that Golden Boy could attempt to make that fight again in the near future, so Dezurn has two viable options, in this observer’s eyes.

The main attraction at the Dignity Health Sports Park on this evening came in the form of undefeated WBO Jr. Middleweight world champion Jaime Munguia, who defended his title for the fifth time against WBO number thirteen contender Patrick Allotey. As I stated in previewing this fight,  that this was the biggest opportunity of Allotey’s career and if he could pose a challenge to Munguia, it could be an interesting fight to watch. The first two rounds of the fight gave the appearance that, that would be the case as the challenger was able to establish movement and land short combinations on Munguia. Over the course of the fight however, Munguia’s bigger size and more rounded skills gradually broke Allotey down as the champion scored two knockdowns in round three and once more in round four before the challenger’s corner stopped the fight.

Munguia’s fifth defense of his Jr. Middleweight world championship will likely be his last as he now will move up to the 160lb. Middleweight division. While the Middleweight division is deep in terms of talent depth, Munguia will likely enter the division in the mix for a potential world title shot. When that fight will come and whim that will be against remains to be seen.

The weekend of Boxing action concluded in Las Vegas, NV as undefeated former Heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury faced undefeated European Heavyweight champion Otto Wallin at the T-Mobile Arena. As I stated in previewing this fight, the challenge for Wallin would be to combat Fury’s elusiveness and awkward style.

Despite some dismissing Wallin as a credible opponent prior to the fight, he showed that he was not awed by Fury, nor was he awed by fighting in a main event in Las Vegas. What impressed me about Wallin’s approach in this fight was he put pressure on Fury from the opening bell and brought the fight to the former Heavyweight world champion. A left hook by Wallin in round three however, became the story of this fight as it opened a deep gash over Fury’s right eye.

Quite frankly, at this point in the fight having seen similar gashes occur throughout my career covering the sport, I felt that it was only a matter of time before the fight would be stopped. Not only because of the size of the gash over Fury’s eye, but also because of the blood involved, which I believed had to be affecting Fury’s vision. Thoughts began to immediately come to mind of the gash Vitali Klitschko had suffered in his challenge of Heavyweight world champion Lennox Lewis in June 2003.

Although Klitschko put forth a very “Game” effort in a fight that I had him winning on my unofficial scorecard, the fight was ultimately stopped after six rounds. In this case, I felt Wallin was ahead in the fight, but there was also a controversy that emerged in this fight as it appeared for a time that the cut, which video replays confirmed was caused by a punch was ruled as being caused by an accidental clash of heads. This would be corrected by the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) during the course of the fight.

Despite being at a disadvantage, Fury showed his resilience and mettle fighting through a gash that never stopped bleeding and gradually working his way into the fight and outworking Wallin over the middle and late rounds to earn a twelve round unanimous decision to remain undefeated. This ultimately proved to be a more difficult test for Fury than some had believed would be the case. Although I felt an aspect of offense that would have served Wallin well after causing the gash was largely absent from his strategy, a jab, Walin did prove to as I said prior to the fight that you simply do not know what to expect when two unbeaten fighters enter the ring to do battle.

Wallin may have suffered the first loss of his career in this fight, but he certainly established himself as a contender on the world level in defeat. As for Fury, the gash he suffered will likely delay plans for a rematch between himself and undefeated WBC champion Deontay Wilder sometime in 2020 assuming Wilder is successful in his upcoming rematch with top contender Luis Ortiz, which could take place in November.

Overall Mexican Independence Day weekend for the sport of Boxing produced several interesting stories that will be followed in the days, weeks, and months to come. Among those stories will be the continued career of Ryan Garcia and it needs to be pointed out that while this column was in development, it was announced that Garcia had worked out his differences with his promoter Oscar De La Hoya and his company Golden Boy Promotions. With this announcement, it was also announced that the unbeaten Garcia will face Romero Duno on the undercard of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez’ challenge of WBO Light-Heavyweight world champion Sergey Kovalev on November 2nd in Las Vegas. One of many stories that this observer looks forward to seeing what happens next.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison



Thursday, September 19, 2019

CANELO ALVAREZ VS. SERGEY KOVALEV LOS ANGELES PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES


Credit: Tom Hogan/Hogan Photos/Golden Boy Promotions

Press Release: By DAZN – LOS ANGELES (Sept. 18, 2019): Canelo Alvarez (52-1-2, 35 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico and Russian warrior Sergey "Krusher" Kovalev (34-3-1, 29 KOs) hosted a press conference today at Union Station in Los Angeles, Calif. to formally announce their 12-round fight for the WBO Light Heavyweight World Title. The event will take place on Saturday, Nov. 2 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live on DAZN

Below is what today's participants had to say at the presser. 

CANELO ALVAREZ, WBC, WBA, Lineal and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion:

"I'm very grateful to all the fans as always. I'm very motivated here, it's an honor for me to share the ring with a fighter like Kovalev who I met in 2012. Now we're about to make history. I know it's going to be the most difficult fight of my professional career. I will give the best I have in the ring and that day we can yell "Viva Mexico."

SERGEY KOVALEV, Current WBO Light Heavyweight World Champion and Three-Time Light Heavyweight World Champion:

"I'm very happy to be here back in Los Angeles. Thanks to God and thanks to Canelo and his team for making this opportunity to get this fight. I think this is a big test for me in my boxing career because this is one of the best fighters in the world in boxing right now. I'm happy and I am excited. Thank you very much for the support."

EDDY REYNOSO, Head Trainer and Manager of Canelo Alvarez:

"Thank you to Golden Boy and DAZN - this was a very difficult fight to make happen but the fight is now here. Only the big fighters and those that leave a footprint become these type of fighters. We know Kovalev well and we know the challenge that we are facing. He's a great fighter that leaves everything in the ring and in one punch, he could end the fight. And we know it's going to be a great challenge. We want Saul to be a champion in four weight classes."

JOSE "CHEPO" REYNOSO, Trainer and Manager of Canelo Alvarez:

"I'm nostalgic and cannot help but remember the beginnings of all this. To look back and  see everything-all the victories that Saul has given myself and my son, and the future victories, makes me happy. The Reynosos have been with Saul for over 15 years-ever since he was a child. We trust that he will gain victory here."

BUDDY MCGIRT, Trainer of Sergey Kovalev:

"Both these guys are true champions. Canelo, I've always admired you. Your trainers did a great job with you. I gotta admit that. I really take my hat off to you for having the balls for taking a step up and not having a catch weight and stepping up to the challenge. Sergey, I love you to death, I respect you for accepting the challenge. In all honestly, the only losers on November 2 are the people who don't want the fight or come to the fight."

EGIS KLIMAS, Manager of Sergey Kovalev:

"I don't think this fight needs to be introduced. When you hear the names Canelo Alvarez, Krusher Kovalev, it says all that's going to happen on November 2. I don't need to talk about Sergey - everybody knows who he is in boxing, and regarding Canelo, they know what they mean when they say - grandes cajones."

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy:

"Canelo hopes to become the fourth Mexican to win a world title in four divisions, with the only other ones being Erik Morales, Juan Manuel Marquez and Jorge Arce. One big difference is that Canelo is at a higher weight class. And this opens the possibility for many more matchups, and bigger opponents with strong punching and star power. When talking with Canelo about his career goals, he said he wanted to make history, and fight the best. This is why we had to be very strategic and thoughtful in planning out his next fight and while it may have taken a bit longer than we wanted, we know that it was worth the wait. Canelo has been preparing for this moment and we know that on Nov. 2 he'll write a new chapter in boxing history by becoming the second Mexican ever to win a world title in the 175-pound division (Light Heavyweight). Together with DAZN, we're committed to making boxing more accessible and affordable by giving fans the best fights - without the price tag of pay-per-view. Historic fights are a hallmark of this company and Golden Boy continues to deliver the biggest fights of the year. November 2 will be no exception, and we expect a great performance by our champion, Canelo Alvarez, as he becomes the new WBO LightHeavyweight World Champion."

"I'm happy to announce that with a major bout like this one, the fans deserve the best undercard possible. Our next big major star in the making, Ryan Garcia, will be fighting in Las Vegas. He's fighting Duno-it's a fight the fans wanted and it's going to be a tough fight."

BERNARD HOPKINS, Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Business Partner:

"I know a little bit about history. And for Canelo to take a big leap from 160 to 175, to dare to be great, to make history, anyone that's not educated in boxing history, wouldn't know what I'm talking about right now. But just in case you want to learn because it's never too late, it's very historic to be in the position of Canelo. And to bite off challenges and challenge himself and dare to be great to make history. As Oscar said, not only Mexican history, but also boxing history. There's very few fighters who have accomplished 160 to 175 and been successful. As you know, you're standing and hearing from one right now. I have a personal feeling about making history because I've been there and done that and now it's Canelo's time. I understand what it's like to be in there with the Krusher. He learned that and I respect that and I respect that to this day. Enjoy this historic fight and watch Canelo Alvarez - who I call the Evil Knievel in boxing - who's taken on the best so far and is now taking on the best at light heavyweight."

KATHY DUVA, CEO of Main Events:

"I want to give special thanks to Sergey Kovalev and Canelo Alvarez - as a lifelong boxing fan, not just as a promoter. Unfortunately, sometime around the turn of the last century, boxing began to lose its way. Instead of building a legacy, avoiding unnecessary risk became the goal and to this day, some fighters are praised for it. Competitions suffer because of that. When we first met, Sergey was so adamant that he wanted to test his skills against the very best. He wanted to find out how good he really was. Canelo, you may have bit off more than you can chew, but that's okay. Great fighters are not afraid to challenge themselves. And win or lose, history will reward you for taking  a risk. Congratulations Ryan, you will not be the only spectacular young fighter on the card that night, because also sharing that ring is another intelligent, well-spoken, absolutely fantastic young fighter - his name is Evan Holyfield. And he is the son of the great Evander Holyfield. I can't tell you how grateful I am to work with Evander's son after all these years. You're all going to see him and meet him, and I think you will all be thrilled."

RYAN GARCIA, Lightweight Contender:

"I want to thank the fans for coming out because it's a weekday, you guys didn't need to come here. Thank you guys for coming. I'm excited. The co-main event on the biggest card of the year. I'm so honored. It's a big night. I get to fight the guy I wanted to fight most, Romero Duno. They all said I was scared and I was worried about him and now I have the chance to get my respect and show everyone I'm a real fighter. Everybody stay tuned. It's going to be a big fight. Thank you to everybody for believing in me and thank you to Golden Boy for getting the job done. Let's make history."

JOSEPH MARKOWSKI, Executive Vice President, DAZN North America:

"In one year's time, I believe we've managed to assemble the best schedule in the history of boxing. Let's just look where we are: Canelo vs. Kovalev - boxing's biggest star jumping up two weight classes; Ruiz vs. Joshua II - the rematch of the biggest heavyweight upset in some year; KSI vs. Logan Paul, bringing millions of new fans to the sport of boxing; GGG, back in title contention from MSG; the list goes on for DAZN. To our subscribers, you're in for a tremendous end to 2019 and tremendous year to come."

Canelo vs. Kovalev is a 12-round fight for the WBO Light Heavyweight World Title presented by Golden Boy, Main Events and Krusher Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, "THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING," Hennessy "Never Stop. Never Settle" and Brand-New Grapefruit Crush, Knockout Flavor. The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 2 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.
   
For more information, visit  www.goldenboypromotions.comwww.MainEvents.com
and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, @Main_Events, @KrusherKovalev and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at 
 Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @Canelo, @Main_Events, @SergeyKrusherKovalev, and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #CaneloKovalev.


Material Courtesy of: DAZN/Photo Courtesy of: Tom Hogan Hogan Photos/Golden Boy Promotions Used with permission.

For more information about DAZN including schedules, compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, availability around the world, and to subscribe please visit: www.DAZN.com

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Monday, September 16, 2019

DUNO RETIRES DELGADO IN EIGHT, CALLS OUT RYAN GARCIA


Credit: Sanman Promotions 

Press Release: September 16, 2019 By Sanman Promotions – WBO NABO lightweight champion Romero “Ruthless” Duno (W21 KO16 L1 D0) successfully defended his belt by battering Ivan Delgado (W13 KO6 L3 D2). Duno masterfully dominated his opponent who failed to answer the bell in the eighth round thus the stoppage win.
Duno was ecstatic on the win. Delgado was a good fighter and I respect him. Now that got another win in my record I am calling out Ryan Garcia. Mexicans are warriors. Show them you’re not scared of fighting anyone. I respect you. You’re good. That’s why I want to fight you.”, Duno stated.
Material and Photo Courtesy of: Sanman Promotions Used with permission.

For more information about Sanman Promotions and to watch the Sanman Live Boxing series please visit Sanman Promotions’ official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SanmanPromotions.

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.



Friday, September 13, 2019

Haney, Serrano, And Hunter Victorious At Madison Square Garden

In a clash of undefeated prospects Lightweight contender Devin Haney scored a fourth round stoppage of previously undefeated Zaur Abdullaev on Friday night at the Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY. Haney controlled the fight from the opening bell working behind a consistent jab, using angles, mixing in combinations, and countering effectively when Abdullaev missed with his punches. The one-sided action was halted at the end of the fourth round when Abdullaev’s corner asked for the fight to be stopped citing a possible broken cheekbone suffered by their fighter. Devin Haney advances to 23-0, with 16 Knockouts. Zaur Abdullaev falls to 11-1, with 7 Knockouts.


Also on this card, in a battle for the Women’s WBO Featherweight world championship seven-division world champion Amanda Serrano scored a hard fought ten round unanimous decision over previously undefeated champion Heather Hardy to regain the WBO Featherweight world championship. Serrano put pressure on Hardy from the outset and unleashed a barrage of punches that appeared as though it might be enough to get a stoppage in the first round with Hardy seemingly trapped on the ropes. Hardy however, showed her mettle and skill ad she as able to slightly change the tempo of the combat in the middle rounds. Although the champion was very “Game “ from start to finish, Serrano’s harder punches and consistent pressure were the story of the fight as she went on to win earn the decision. Official scores were: 98-92, and 99-91(On two scorecards) in favor of Serrano. Amanda Serrano advances to 37-1-1, with 27 Knockouts. Heather Hardy falls to 22-1, with 4 Knockouts.

In a Heavyweight bout top contender Michael Hunter scored a dominant twelve round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Sergey Kuzmin.Hunter used an athletic style to consistently beat Kuzmin to the punch. Hunter dropped Kuzmin with a solid left hook to the head in round five and continued to out work Kuzmin down the stretch to secure a convincing decision victory. Official scores were: 117-110 (On all three scorecards) in favor of Hunter. Michael Hunter advances to 18-1, with 12 Knockouts. Sergey Kuzmin falls to 15-1, with 11 Knockouts.

Undefeated Jr. Featherweight Raymond Ford outpointed Rafael Castillo over four rounds. Official scores were: 40-36 (On all three scorecards) in favor of Ford. Raymond Ford advances to 4-0, with 1 Knockout. Rafael Castillo falls to 1-4, with 0 Knockouts.

Also in the Jr. Featherweight division Darren Cunningham remained undefeated by scoring a six round unanimous decision over Jonathan Ramos. Darren Cunningham advances to 10-0, with 5 Knockouts. Jonathan Ramos falls to 18-25-5, with 6 Knockouts.

Jr. Welterweight Wesley Ferrer scored an eight round unanimous decision over Larry Fryers. Official scores were: 80-72, and 79-73 on two scorecards in favor of Ferrer.Wesley Ferrer advances to 14-1-1, with 7 Knockouts. Larry Fryers falls to 11-2, with 4 Knockouts.

Heavyweight Mahammadrasul Majidov successfully made his professional debut with a fourth round stoppage of Ed Fountain.  Mahammadrasul Majidov advances to 1-0, with 1 Knockout. Ed Fountain falls to 12-7, 5 Knockouts.

In the Jr. Featherweight division undefeated 2016 Olympic Bantamweight Bronze medalist Murodjon Akhmadaliev scored an impressive fourth round stoppage over Wilner Soro. Akhmadaliev, who was supposed to face WBA Jr. Featherweight world champion Daniel Roman, but had a change in opponent due to an injury to the world champion, took his time early and did not give Soto, who took the fight on six days notice any openings due to his foot work. As the fight progressed Akhmadaliev picked up his offensive output and Soto simply had no answer to combat Akhmadaliev’s arsenal. A barrage of punches that had Soto against the ropes taking punishment brought an end to the fight at 1:56 of round four. Murodjon Akhmadaliev advances to 7-0, with 6 Knockouts. Wilner Soto falls to 22-7, with 12 Knockouts.

In the Welterweight division unbeaten prospect Daniyar Yeleussinov scored a first round knockout over previously undefeated Reshard Hicks. A jab to the body followed by a flush left hand that landed behind the ear of Hicks set of a barrage of punches that forced Hicks to take a knee. Moments later another left hand from Yeleussinov put Hicks down for a second time and out at 2:38 of round one. Daniyar Yeleussinov advances to 8-0, with 4 Knockouts. Reshard Hicks falls to 12-1-1, with 6 Knockouts.

In the Lightweight division Christian Bermudez successfully made his professional debut by scoring a second round knockout over Jonathan Conde. A flush left hook to the jaw sent Conde down in round two. The bout was immediately stopped by Referee Sparkle Lee at 1:56 of the round. Christian Bermudez advances to 1-0, with 1 Knockout. Jonathan Conde falls to 1-3, with 1 Knockout.

This card featured a little of everything. Excitement, Knockouts, and world-class Boxing. A few things to take away from this card are not only the continued growth and long overdue recognition for the sport of Women’s Boxing in two world champions putting it all on the line and more importantly elevating their sport by displaying class and respect for each other both before and after their fight, but also several prospects on various levels all continuing to progress in their respective careers.

For Michael Hunter, his victory over Sergey Kuzmin will continue to move him up the rankings in the hopes of securing another opportunity at a world championship after previously challenging for a world championship in the Cruiserweight division. Devin Haney meanwhile earned interim championship status in the World Boxing Council (WBC) Lightweight ratings, which makes him the number one contender for current unified WBO/WBA/WBC world champion Vasyl Lomachenko. Although he will likely have to wait a period of time before getting his shot at whomever the WBC champion is, if he continues putting forth the types of impressive performances he has in his recent fights including against Zaur Abdullaev, it may only be a matter of time before those of us who cover the sport and fans of Boxing are including Devin Haney in the discussion of the best pound for pound fighters in the world.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

The Boxing Truth®️ is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.

Follow Beau Denison on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Beau_Denison

CANELO ALVAREZ TO CHALLENGE SERGEY ‘KRUSHER’ KOVALEV FOR THE WBO LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE


Credit: Golden Boy Promotions

Press Release: By DAZN – LOS ANGELES (Sept. 13, 2019) – Canelo Alvarez (51-1-2, 34 KOs), the face of boxing and the king of the middleweight division, will take on a new challenge as he moves into the 175-pound weight class in a 12-round bout against champion Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (34-3-1, 28 KOs) for the WBO Light Heavyweight World Title. The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 2 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas and will be streamed exclusively live on DAZN in all of its nine markets, including the United States, Canada, Brazil, Spain, Italy, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Japan. 


Tickets for Canelo vs. Kovalev are priced at $1,754, $1,254, $854, $654, $404 and $204, not including applicable service charges and taxes. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.axs.com.

“We promised to make this fight happen, and now we are delivering it,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “Historic fights have been a hallmark of this company, and we are pleased to once again live up to the high expectations we’ve set for our fans. The best pound-for-pound fighter is also boxing’s biggest star. Few fighters in boxing’s history can claim to be both like Canelo Alvarez. Now, he’ll look to become a four-division world champion against one of the most dangerous fighters of recent years, and I’m certain that he will stop him. There’s no better home for this than on the DAZN platform or live at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.”

Canelo, the 29-year-old native of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, became the face of boxing by taking on some of the biggest names in the sport. At 154 pounds, Canelo captured several world titles and defeated the likes of Austin “No Doubt” Trout, Sugar Shane MosleyAlfredo “El Perro” AnguloErislandy “The American Dream” Lara and Liam “Beefy” Smith.

At 160 pounds, Canelo defeated Gennady “GGG” Golovkin and Daniel “Miracle Man” Jacobs to establish himself as the king of the middleweight division. And, shortly after signing a groundbreaking partnership with global sports streaming giant DAZN, Canelo moved into the 168-pound division by stopping Rocky Fielding in three rounds to become the WBA Super Middleweight World Champion.

Canelo will now look to make history once again by becoming the second Mexican boxer to hold a world title in the light heavyweight division, a feat only done by Julio Cesar Gonzalez in 2003. The pound-for-pound king will at the same time join an elite group of four-division world champions from Mexico.

“The second phase of my career is continuing just as we had planned, and that’s why we are continuing to make great fights to enter into the history books of boxing,” said Canelo Alvarez. “That’s also why I’ve decided to jump two weight classes against one of the most feared champions of recent years. Kovalev is a dangerous puncher, and he’s naturally the bigger man, but that’s the kind of challenges and risks that I like to face.”

Credit: Main Events
On November 2nd, Kovalev, 36, will participate in his 17th consecutive world title bout and the most lucrative fight of his career against the biggest star in boxing. A Russian knockout artist and three-time light heavyweight world champion, “Krusher” is no stranger to fighting in hostile territory. He captured the WBO Light Heavyweight World Title in 2013 when he traveled to Wales and scored a stunning knockout of Nathan Cleverly. Kovalev traveled to Atlantic City to meet future Hall of Famer Bernard “The Alien” Hopkins near his Philadelphia home to unify the WBO, WBA and IBF titles with a lopsided unanimous decision victory in 2014. As unified champion, “Krusher” successfully defended his titles twice against current WBA Interim Light Heavyweight titleholder Jean Pascal in Pascal’s hometown of Montreal, scoring a stoppage victory both times.


Kovalev suffered two controversial losses to former Olympic Gold medalist Andre Ward (in 2016 and 2017) and a surprise upset to Eleider Alvarez last year, but quickly regained his WBO Light Heavyweight Title each time. In August, the road warrior finally got the chance to fight in his own hometown of Chelyabinsk, Russia, stopping undefeated mandatory challenger Anthony Yarde in a sold-out arena.

When asked about this fight, Kovalev said, “In order to be the best you have to beat the best. I have always tried to fight the toughest opponents in my division, but many have ducked me throughout my career. Canelo wanted to fight me; to step up to higher weight and challenge for my belt. I will be ready on November 2nd. Thank you, Main Events, Kathy Duva, Egis Klimas, DAZN and Canelo for making this fight happen.”

“Canelo is to be praised for asking to challenge Sergey Kovalev,” added Main Events’ CEO Kathy Duva. “Win or lose, he will make history and Sergey is extremely pleased to get the chance to test his mettle against another future Hall of Famer.” She continued, “Anyone who cares at all about the Sweet Science should circle November 2nd on their calendar. I have a feeling that this will be one for the ages.”

“Canelo vs. Kovalev is a fascinating matchup between champions that will highlight our entire season of premium fights on DAZN over the next several months,” said DAZN Group Executive Chairman John Skipper. “Simply stated, this is the best schedule in boxing history.”

Richard Sturm, President of Las Vegas Live Entertainment and Sports, said, “We look forward to hosting this tremendous matchup between Canelo and Kovalev at MGM Grand in November. These two great fighters always put on a fantastic show and we are confident they will, once again, provide boxing fans worldwide a thrilling fight when they return to Las Vegas.”

Canelo vs. Kovalev is a 12-round fight for the WBO Light Heavyweight World Title presented by Golden Boy, Main Events and Krusher Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and Brand-New Grapefruit Crush, Knockout Flavor. The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 2 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.
  
For more information, visit  www.goldenboypromotions.comwww.MainEvents.com
and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, @Main_Events, @KrusherKovalev and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing
www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarezhttps://www.facebook.com/thekrusher/https://www.facebook.com/MainEventsBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @Canelo, @Main_Events, @SergeyKrusherKovalev, and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #CaneloKovalev.

Material Courtesy of DAZN/Photo Of Canelo Alvarez Credit: Golden Boy Promotions/ Photo of Sergey Kovalev Credit: Main Events Used with permission.

For more information about DAZN including schedules, compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs, availability around the world, and to subscribe please visit: www.DAZN.com

The Boxing Truth® is a registered trademark of Beau Denison All Rights Reserved.