Friday, January 31, 2020

Andrade Stops Keeler In 9/ Full Miami Fight Night Results


Undefeated WBO Middleweight world champion Demetrius Andrade scored a dominant ninth round stoppage of WBO number three Middleweight contender Luke Keeler on Thursday night at the Meridian at Island Gardens in Miami, FL. Andrade, who was making his third defense of his WBO crown dropped Keeler with a short overhand left to the chin shortly after the bell rang to begin the fight. Keeler was able to get up, but it did not take long for the difference in hand speed and overall skill to become apparent. The champion would score a second knockdown of Keeler in the second round with a flush left hook to the jaw.

Keeler was able to survive the round, and to his credit was able to find his footing and get into the fight. The challenger was unable to find a way to turn the momentum in his favor. As the fight progressed, it appeared for a time that Andrade may have been content to box his way to a convincing unanimous decision victory, but in round nine the champion would bring an end to the fight as he connected with several unanswered punches in the closing seconds of the round to force Referee Telis Assimenios to stop the fight at 2:59 of the round. Demetrius Andrade advances to 29-0, with 18 Knockouts. Luke Keeler falls to 17-3-1, with 5 Knockouts.

In a battle for the IBF Jr. Lightweight world championship, longtime contender Joseph Diaz scored a hard-fought twelve round unanimous decision over defending champion Tevin Farmer to win the world championship. The majority of this fight was fought in close where both fighters were willing to engage with each other. Farmer appeared to injure his right hand in round one, but it was unclear to this observer as to how the injury occurred. A central part of the story of this fight however, did occur in the second round when Diaz suffered a deep gash over his left eye as a result of an accidental clash of heads. Although the gash appeared severe enough that the fight could have been stopped at any time, Diaz’ corner did an excellent job in managing the damage to the wound and the gash was not a factor for the remainder of the fight.

Many of the rounds in this fight were difficult to score simply because the combat was fought in close and both fighters had periods of effectiveness throughout.Diaz’ greater activity particularly over the second half of the fight in being able to outwork Farmer was ultimately what took him to victory as all the judges turned in scores of 115-113 (On two scorecards), and 116-112 in his favor making him the new champion. Joseph Diaz advances to 31-1, with 15 Knockouts. Tevin Farmer falls to 30-5-1, with 6 Knockouts.

In a battle for the unified WBA/IBF Jr. Featherweight world championship undefeated contender Murodjon Akhmadaliev scored a hard-fought twelve round split decision over defending champion Daniel Roman to win the championship. Akhmadaliev was consistently the aggressor throughout the fight and landed the cleaner punches. Although the fight was not easy to score due to both fighters having periods of success, Akhmadaliev’s consistent pressure, greater activity, and ability to immediately return offense whenever Roman would have success ultimately proved to be the difference as two official judges scored the fight 115-113 in favor of Akhmadaliev, while the third judge had the same score in favor of Roman in what was a highly competitive and entertaining bout to watch. Murodjon Akhmadaliev advances to 8-0, with 6 Knockouts. Daniel Roman falls to 27-3-1, with 10 Knockouts.

Super-Middleweight Alexis Angulo scored an upset in scoring a ten round split decision over previously undefeated highly touted prospect Anthony Sims Jr. Sims executed effective lateral movement throughout the fight, but was not aggressive in a largely uneventful fight. Despite being deducted a point in round five for holding and hitting in a clear sign of frustration, Angulo’s overall willingness to engage and press the action was enough to earn the nod of two official judges who scored the fight 96-93 each in his favor while the third judge felt Sims had done enough to win in scoring the fight 95-94 in his favor. Alexis Angulo advances to 26-1, with 22 Knockouts. Anthony Sims Jr. falls to 20-1, with 18 Knockouts.

In a Lightweight bout undefeated prospect Otha Jones remained undefeated with a second round stoppage of Juan Santiago. Otha Jones advances to 5-0, with 2 Knockouts. Juan Santiago falls to 16-18-2, with 9 Knockouts.

In the Women’s Lightweight division WBO Featherweight world champion Amanda Serrano scored a third round stoppage over Simone Da Silva. Amanda Serrano advances to 38-1-1, with 28 Knockouts. Simone Da Silva falls to 17-15, with 6 Knockouts. 

Undefeated Lightweight Movladdin Biyarslanov remained unbeaten in scoring a first round knockout over Nicolas Velazquez. Movladdin Biyarslanov advances to 6-0, with 5 Knockouts. Nicolas Velazquez falls to 11-8, with 3 Knockouts.

In a Cruiserweight bout between two YouTube stars making their respective professional Boxing debuts Jake Paul scored a first round knockout over Ali Eson Gib. Gib fought out of an unorthodox crouching style from the opening bell an frankly did not look like a fighter who should be competing in the 190lb. Cruiserweight division based on how small he appeared in the midst of combat. Whether this was due to his unorthodox approach proved to be a mute point in that he really could not provide much resistance for Paul. Paul landed what appeared to be a short left hook early in round one that dropped Gib. A barrage of punches sent Gib down for a second time. Paul was able to close the show in dropping Gib for a third and final time with a flush right hand forcing Referee Chris Young to stop the fight at 2:18 of round one. Jake Paul advances to 1-0, with 1 Knockout. Ali Eson Gib falls to 0-1, with 0 Knockouts. 

Following the fight there was a near physical altercation between Paul and Olajide Olattunji, better known as KSI, who defeated Paul’s older brother Logan in November of last year by six round split decision. The exchange between the two YouTube stars full of explicit language from both men was finally broken up before the situation could escalate into a physical brawl.

Undefeated Super-Middleweight prospect Alexis Espino scored an impressive third round stoppage of Vincent Baccus. A flush left hook to the jaw dropped Baccus in round three and Espino was able to close the show with a follow up barrage as the fight was stopped by Referee Samuel Burgos at 1:49 of the round. Alexis Espino advances to 5-0, with 4 Knockouts. Vincent Baccus falls to 4-2-1, with 3 Knockouts. 

In a Middleweight bout undefeated prospect Austin Williams scored a fourth round stoppage of Donald Sanchez. Williams consistently forced Sanchez backward and found success in landing his left hand. It was an overhand left that would drop Sanchez in round two. An accumulation of punishment highlighted by several body punches eventually set Sanchez up for a straight left hand that sent him down for the second time prompting Referee Telis Assimenios to stop the fight at 2:51 of round four. Austin Williams advances to 5-0, with 4 Knockouts. Donald Sanchez falls to 5-3, with 3 Knockouts.


In a Women’s Bantamweight division bout that kicked off the evening, undefeated prospect Avril Mathie scored a fourth round stoppage of Angelina Hoffschneider. Avril Mathie advances to 4-0-1, with 2 Knockouts. Angelina Hoffschneider falls to 0-3, with 0 Knockouts.

This card, which was the first for promoter Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing United States promotional branch as well as digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN’s first time presenting a Boxing card in the state of Florida, had a little of everything. From prospects at the early stages in their respective careers, to contenders winning world championships, to some fighters thought to be mere opponents pulling off upsets, to YouTube stars bringing their influence into the sport of Boxing, to finally a world champion showcasing his dominance in the hope of securing a lucrative opportunity against another star in the Middleweight division. “Miami Fight Night “ had a little bit of everything for just about any level of Boxing fan.

As the focus remains on Demetrius Andrade as he looks for potential unification bouts against Saul “Canelo” Alvarez or Gennady Golovkin, this card should be viewed as a success for both Matchroom and DAZN. As both continue to establish themselves in the United States by not only putting on competitive Boxing cards, but also staging events in cities and states that are not thought to be traditional Boxing destinations while also staging cards in major cities like New York City and Las Vegas as well as internationally, this observer as a native New Yorker and longtime resident of Florida hopes that the Florida Boxing scene will be able to benefit from the exposure that DAZN and promoters like Eddie Hearn can bring to the state by staging more events in “The Sunshine State.” A state that has always had a dedicated fan base for the sport and is home to many fighters is long overdue for valuable exposure on a consistent basis that television networks can bring that would only help continue the growth of Boxing in the long-term.

“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, January 30, 2020

Francis Chua Re-signs With Dragon Fire Boxing

Press Release: January 30, 2020 By Dragon Fire Boxing – All action Lightweight Francis Chua has re-signed with Australian boxing chief Tony Tolj as he looks to continue his progression in the professional ranks in what is already shaping up to be an exciting 2020.
Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 
 

Chua holds a victory over highly rated Kye Mackenzie, who was WBO #2 at the time and has competed for WBA regional honors in the pro ranks despite being under ten fights in. 

Chua discussed his career progression so far. He said, “I’m very grateful to how my career has gone so far and I have to thank all of my team and especially to the Big Bossman Tony Tolj who has guided me in the right way at the early stages of my career. 

“The early parts of your career are crucial to building towards a successful career. If you get the early parts wrong it can ruin you for good. Fortunately, Tony has guided me very well and got me some good opportunities so far. I know if I keep working hard I’ll get more and more opportunities going forward like all of Tony’s fighters do. I loved fighting in front of 40,000 when I took on WBO #2 Kye Mackenzie on the Mundine Horn undercard, everyone thought we were crazy but our team had belief. It was Australian boxings upset of the year. At Onyx it’s a team atmosphere, and our team is doing great.

“I’ve enjoyed my first couple of years as a pro. I feel I am improving all the time and becoming a more well-rounded fighter. I’m excited for the future with Dragon Fire Boxing.” 

Chua has been a part of two great clashes with highly rated Kye Mackenzie, and the Western Australian native opened up about the possibilities of a trilogy. 

Chua said, “I’d love to clean out the domestic division and do a trilogy and I believe it’s a fight that will happen at some point. Kye is a quality fighter and I respect him a lot, but I believe and most fans thought I won the rematch but I didn’t get the decision and we move forward & if we do a trilogy I will emerge victoriously. 

“If the Mackenzie fight doesn’t happen however, it’s not the end of the world. I’ve got plenty of options and I’m grateful to my management for getting me those opportunities when they come. I would also love to take on IBF & WBO #11 Jacob Ng who is a great fighter and both our teams and discuss that fight on numerous occasions but it was a fight truly worthy on a big show.

“There is always the Thunderdome events in Perth and I want to continue to build my experience and look to win titles by taking on the best. That is what I really want going forward and I know that if I stay solid in the gym, I will get there when the time is right. All I want to do is make my family, friends and country proud, The Removalist is here to take out all the lightweights!!”

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing 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. 

Miami Fight Night Weights

Press Release: By DAZN – MIAMI, Jan. 29, 2020 – A day ahead of the highly-anticipated Miami Fight Night featuring undefeated middleweight star Demetrius Andrade (28-0, 17 KOs) defending his WBO World Middleweight championship against contender Luke Keeler(17-2-1, 5 KOs), the fighters tipped the scales before entering the ring at the Meridian at Island Gardens on Thursday night – live on DAZN. 
Credit: Ed Mulholland/ Matchroom Boxing USA 

In the co-main event, the grudge match between YouTube stars Jake “The Problem Child” Paul and “7-Figure Gibber” AnEsonGib will finally play out in the ring, Tevin Farmer (30-4-1, 6 KOs) will look to defend his IBF world super featherweight title for the fifth time when he faces JoJo Diaz (30-1, 15 KOs) and unified world super bantamweight champion Daniel Roman (27-2-1, 10 KOs) defends his titles against Murodjon Akhmadaliev (7-0, 6 KOs).

Tune-in to Countdown to Jake Paul vs. Gib at 8 p.m. ET on DAZN’s YouTube to see all the stars and special guest interviews leading up to the fight – hosted by Kyle Brandt, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Logan Paul, and Devin Haney. DAZN coverage of the main-card will start at 9 p.m. ET, with the co-main event beginning roughly at 10:30 p.m. ET.

 12-Round WBO Middleweight Title Bout @160 lbs.

Demetrius Andrade: 159.6 lbs.

Luke Keeler: 159.4 lbs

6-Round Cruiserweight Bout @ 193 lbs.

Jake Paul: 191.8 lbs.

AnEsonGib: 188 lbs.

12-Round IBF Super Featherweight Title Bout @ 130 lbs.

Tevin Farmer: 130 lbs.

JoJo Diaz: 129.8 lbs.

12-Round WBA & IBF Super Bantamweight Title Bout @ 122 lbs.

Daniel Roman: 121.6 lbs.

Murodjon Akhmadaliev: 121.4 lbs.

About DAZN:
DAZN is the largest global sports streaming service. Since launching in 2016, DAZN has expanded to nine countries across four continents with its app 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 service 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 The Pat McAfee Show, live MLB action each day of the season with its daily show ChangeUp and a growing number of projects from DAZN Originals.

Material Courtesy of DAZN/ Photo Courtesy of: Ed Mulholland Matchroom Boxing USA Used with permission.

Miami Fight Night: Andrade vs. Keeler takes place Tonight (Thursday, January 30th) at Meridian at Island Gardens in Miami, FL. The card can be seen in the United States and several international countries on digital sports subscription streaming network DAZN beginning at 7PM ET/4PM PT. 

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

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


Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Miami Fight Night Final Presser Quotes


Press Release By DAZN – MIAMI, Jan. 28, 2020 – Two days before the highly-anticipated Miami Fight Night featuring undefeated middleweight star Demetrius Andrade (28-0, 17 KOs) defending his WBO World Middleweight championship against contender Luke Keeler (17-2-1, 5 KOs), the fighters took the stage to discuss their preparations and predictions heading into the fight.  
Credit: Ed Mulholland/Matchroom Boxing USA 

In the co-main event, the grudge match between YouTube stars Jake “The Problem Child” Paul and “7-Figure Gibber” AnEsonGib will finally play out in the ring, Tevin Farmer (30-4-1, 6 KOs) will look to defend his IBF world super featherweight title for the fifth time when he faces JoJo Diaz (30-1, 15 KOs) and unified world super bantamweight champion Daniel Roman (27-2-1, 10 KOs) defends his titles against Murodjon Akhmadaliev (7-0, 6 KOs).

Final Press Conference Quotes

Demetrius Andrade, WBO Middleweight World Champion

“Luke, I am your father! Miami! Let’s get jiggy with it. It’s an honor to be here on this card with these guys. Kicking off Super Bowl weekend with a bang on DAZN. Luke Keeler, just like everyone else. They have the game plan, they say they can beat me and then they can’t. I had a great camp, spent a lot of time down here in Miami training. It’s my second home. Let’s put on a show. And remember Luke, I am your father.”

Luke Keeler, Middleweight Contender

“Thanks everyone for coming and making this fight happen. There’s a tale of two halves with my career. People think this is an easy touch for Andrade. He stepped up to middleweight and he hasn’t been performing. He hasn’t showed me how great he is like he said he is. I labeled him delusional and I think it got under his skin. I am 32 but I am fresh. I think his pro career has slowed him down. He’s not entertaining, he’s struggling. He talks like he is the greatest but he isn’t. I am going to take that belt back to Ireland.”

Jake Paul

“I am an entrepreneur at the end of the day. I have a baker’s dozen in the influencer space which I take a percentage from. I have over a hundred people using my merch company. I’m off the YouTube stuff. I am good.

“There are a lot of lies being told from their side. Two days from now, you will see the work that I put in.

“I wrote a book called ‘You Gotta Want It.’ It was top 10 on Amazon. I wanted to be a Navy Seal before I moved to LA to pursue acting and stuff. We can chop it up any single way but I am going to win on Thursday night. I think it’s only going three rounds. Shane thinks that and so do I. This is boxing, we aren’t measuring hearts though so I don’t care how big his heart is.

“I am here to avenge the Paul name. After I beat Gib, again he’s a stepping stone, I am going to fight KSI. After that, who knows? I love this sport. I don’t do anything I don’t love to do. So I will see what the future holds. I will beat Gib and then fight KSI next.”

AnEsonGib

“Training camp is done and I have been pushed to the limit. I am ready to get in there on Thursday. I think his aim is to say that he is more technical. Sure, he is more technically sound. But I am going in there on my rough house shit and I am going to beat him.

“I think he has tried to select opponents before and this isn’t what he wanted. It’s going to be a rough night for him. I finessed my way into this fight. I have nothing to lose. I want it really f**king bad. He has everything to lose on Thursday.”

Shane Mosley (Jake Paul’s Trainer)

“Jake has put the work in. He hasn’t just come to me randomly, it was that we were friends. I’ve known him a few years. I wanted to train him and show him the ropes. He can put in the work. He really loves the sport of boxing. The people he works with – they are all impressed by him and his talent in the ring.

“These guys have the desire. I won’t train anyone who doesn’t put in 100%. He does that every single day. He’s working harder than a lot of professional fighters that I know. He has definitely put the work in. He is strong, he is fast and he is ready to go.

“The toughness shows in sparring. I put him to the test. I didn’t make it easy for him during camp. He has no quit. I put him against guys at 154. Boxing is entertainment and this brings a lot of fans and followers to the sport. It’s great for the fight game. It will only grow the sport.”

Viddal Riley (AnEsonGib’s Trainer)

“We are looking to repeat history again. IT was great to come out on the winning side of the KSI vs. Logan Paul fight. We broke down barriers. We came out victorious. We will do it again.

“Gib is not the best boxer in the world. But neither was Marcos Maidana. I can compare Gib to him because he has that rough element to him. He is tougher than a typical YouTube guy. I have hit him hard on purpose and he has taken those shots. I don’t think Jake can hurt him.

“Gib fights unorthodox. It’s dangerous for his opponent because he can’t prepare for it really.”

Tevin Farmer, IBF Super Featherweight World Champion

“I don’t have much to say. I am going to be JoJo’s ass – flat out. Thanks to Eddie, DiBella, Matchroom and DAZN. Thanks for keeping me active. This is such a huge card. There are so many stars on this card, it’s amazing to be on there with all of these guys. I feel amazing. I don’t feel dried out, my weight is great. Miami weekend is going to be crazy after I win. I wanted to fight him and gave him this opportunity. I am tired of sweeping everyone out and kicking everyone’s ass so I hope he brings it. He better bring it. I’ll probably sweep him though, but we will see on Thursday on DAZN.”

Joseph “JoJo” Diaz, Super Featherweight challenger

“Thanks to Eddie Hearn, Joe and DAZN, and Golden Boy Promotions. Thank you to my whole team. I have been through a lot in my career, a lot of ups and downs. It has made me who I am today. I know Tevin Farmer is a slick boxer, I know he is tough but I am coming to take that title. I’ve talked a lot of shit, he has talked a lot of shit. We are going to back it up. This is history in the making and I am just happy to be alive and be a part of it. I know he’s making his fifth and his last defense. Tevin, I hope you are sleeping with that belt because it is going to be mine.”

Danny Roman, WBA and IBF Super Bantamweight World Champion

“Thanks to Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and Thompson Boxing for making this happen. I am thrilled to be on this world championship card. I am going to make this the fight of the night again. I became the unified champion last year and I am going to keep it like that.”

Murodjon Akhmadaliev, Super Bantamweight World Champion

“Thanks for supporting this event. Thanks to everyone who made this fight possible. See you January 30.”

Anthony Sims, Jr., Super Middleweight Champion

“Since we are telling stories. I got a story about Devin Haney. I was at his house, I was like, ‘This is a dope fox statue.’ Devin says, ‘I don’t have a fox statue.’ I turn around and it is gone. Now it’s up on the wall. I take a stick and tell Devin to line him up and I hit it into the pool. His dad gets home and doesn’t believe us that there was a fox in the house. He thought we were just breaking shit.

“Thank you for this opportunity. My mother is Cuban so it feels like home. Thanks for the opportunity. My Español is muy malo though. Thanks to the WBO, Matchroom and DAZN. Thanks to my UK geezers. They always say I need to fight better opposition and here it is. This is my time. Expect a funky, groovy night baby, yeah.”

Joseph Markowski, EVP DAZN North America

“Good to be back at it 2020. In 2019, DAZN was home to every single one of ESPN’s year-end boxing awards: Fighter of the Year, Fight of the Year, Round of the Year, Knockout of the Year, Prospect of the Year.

“We look forward to delivering a stellar 2020 to our subscribers and this week’s championship tripleheader marks the deepest card of the boxing year so far.

“Demetrius Andrade looking to make a statement on a big stage and lure the division’s biggest names into career-defining matchups later this year. Tevin Farmer and JoJo Diaz competing in a can’t-miss grudge match. A guy in Danny Roman, who has been with DAZN since our U.S. launch, putting both of his belts on the line against a hungry, undefeated fighter in Akhmadaliev.
  
“In addition to a championship tripleheader, Thursday’s co-main event will see Jake Paul looking to avenge his brother’s loss by defeating Gib on his way to a fight with KSI.

“In terms of the interest this matchup is generating, our pre-fight show 40 DAYS has already been viewed nearly 4 million times on YouTube – and that’s a testament to the fan bases of these two individuals. They are businessmen, content creators and – for the first time on Thursday – professional fighters.

“And the only place you can watch it is on DAZN. Just download the app, sign up and enjoy. Thank you to the fighters for making the most of this opportunity, participating in a busy several days of media and creating great content on social. This is a noisy week but we feel confident that we’ll be able to cut through and draw a spectacular audience on Thursday night.”

Eddie Hearn, President of Matchroom Boxing USA

“This is what you call a fight card. Unbelievable night of championship boxing. Three huge title fights from Miami on DAZN. We took over Super Bowl week.

“We added Amanda Serrano, seven-time champ, to the card. She is on a quest for the super bowl of women’s boxing against Katie Taylor in 2020.

“This card is so underrated. Everyone in boxing is talking about this card. The three world championship fights are all breathtaking. Danny Roman is a unified super bantamweight world champion. Murodjon Akhmadaliev is one of the most exciting young fighters. This is going to be an absolute war for the unified belts.

“Tevin Farmer is the most active world champion in the world. Period. This is first huge breakout fight. They said they were going to make this fight and here we are.

“Andrade is the best 160 pounder in the world. Everyone is saying it. Everyone comes in with a plan but they can’t even with rounds, minutes or even seconds. He has an interesting point. WBO ranked number two. If he pulls off the upset, he will go back to Ireland as a hero. He will look to topple the champion on Thursday night. It’s going to be a huge fight. And listen, if you don’t have DAZN then what on earth are you doing?”

About DAZN:
DAZN is the largest global sports streaming service. Since launching in 2016, DAZN has expanded to nine countries across four continents with its app 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 service 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 The Pat McAfee Show, live MLB action each day of the season with its daily show ChangeUp and a growing number of projects from DAZN Originals.

Material Courtesy of DAZN/ Photo Courtesy of Ed Mulholland/Matchroom Boxing USA Used with permission.

For more information about DAZN including schedules, list of 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. 

Tuesday, January 28, 2020

Clayton, Rolls, And Galle Victorious In Toronto


Undefeated Welterweight prospect Custio Clayton successfully made the first defense of his North American Boxing Association (NABA) Welterweight champion by scoring a dominant eighth round knockout over veteran Diego Ramirez on Tuesday night at the Danforth Music Hall in Toronto, Canada. Clayton applied a systematic approach from the outset gradually walking Ramirez down, but picking his shots. The consistent theme of the fight was Clayton walking Ramirez back on the ropes, throwing short combinations and stepping back just out of range where Ramirez could not return offense. An overall accumulation of punishment highlighted by several body punches set up the eventual knockout of Ramirez as a result of a jab to the solar plexus sending Ramirez down and out along the ropes at :26 of round eight. Custio Clayton advances to 18-0, with 12 Knockouts. Diego Ramirez falls to 21-4, with 6 Knockouts.

Middleweight contender Steve Rolls scored a fourth round knockout over late substitute Gilberto Dos Santos. Rolls, who was returning to the ring for the first time since suffering s knockout loss to Gennady Golovkin in June of last year, chose to return to the 168lb. Super-Middleweight division for his comeback fight. Dos Santos did not offer much resistance and it looked for a time as though Rolls could have boxed his way to a decision win if he wanted. Rolls however, would gradually increase his offensive output and had success landing uppercuts and body shots in round three. Dos Santos ultimately succumbed to a barrage of punches that sent him down in Rolls’ corner and was counted out at 2:00 of round four. Steve Rolls advances to 20-1, with 11 Knockouts. Gilberto Dos Santos falls to 16-11, with 12 Knockouts.

Also in the Middleweight division undefeated prospect Hurshidbek Normatov scored an eight round unanimous decision over Uriel Hernandez. Normatov was in control from start to finish and nearly ended the fight in round seven when he knocked Hernandez down with a body shot. Official scores were: 80-71 (On all three scorecards) in favor of Normatov. Hurshidbek Normatov advances to 9-0, with 3 Knockouts. Uriel Hernandez falls to 13-6, with 7 Knockouts.

In a battle for the Women’s Canadian Jr. Featherweight championship, undefeated contender Amanda Galle scored a dominant eight round unanimous decision over current Women’s Canadian Bantamweight champion Shelly Barnett. From the opening bell, Galle attacked Barnett with combination punching from every conceivable angle. Although Barnett was unable to time Galle’s hand speed, she never stopped coming forward, despite taking significant punishment throughout. Official scores were: 80-72 (On all three scorecards) for Galle. Despite her victory, Galle was unable to win the championship due to weighing over the 122lb. Jr. Featherweight limit. Amanda Galle advances to 4-0, with 0 Knockouts. Shelly Barnett falls to 4-3-2, with 0 Knockouts.

This card, which was the first in the popular Broadway Boxing series promoted by 2020 International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Lou DiBella, to take place in Canada served as a showcase for three fighters at similar stages in their respective careers. Whether or not Custio Clayton, Steve Rolls, and Amanda Galle all find themselves fighting for world championships in the near future remains to be seen. If each can continue to perform impressively against further competition, it may only be a question of when and not if each will be challenging for a world championship.

“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

Ugas-Dallas Highlights The Boxing Schedule On Super Bowl Weekend


Although this is slightly different from the norm that readers are accustomed to, it is necessary to inform the reader that this column was originally intended to preview two bouts that highlighted the beginning of the Boxing schedule for February 2020. Unfortunately, this will not be the case as it was announced on last Friday that the WBC Jr. Welterweight world championship bout between undefeated world champion Jose Ramirez and former WBC world champion Viktor Postol, which was scheduled to take place in Haikou, China was postponed due to the ongoing Coronavirus outbreak that has severely impacted the country.

While obviously that bout will be rescheduled at a date to be determined, the night before the National Football League’s (NFL) Super Bowl  54 between the Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers, Boxing will still be featured as a bout in the 147lb. Welterweight division will now  take centerstage. A fight between top contender Yordenis Ugas and Mike Dallas Jr. Ugas is a former world title challenger that has been close to making the transition from top contender to world champion. Just how close has Ugas been? In his one title shot against Shawn Porter in March of last year, he lost via twelve round split decision in a fight that frankly could have gone either way. Ugas was able to rebound in July of last year with a twelve round unanimous decision over Omar Figuroa. 

Now Ugas looks to continue building momentum towards another world title shot by taking on Mike Dallas Jr. Dallas has had an up and down career, but can reestablish himself with a win in this fight. Some may remember Dallas for his loss in January 2013 Lucas Matthysse, where he suffered a knockout loss in the first round. 

Following that loss, Dallas took a two year layoff. Since returning to the ring in November 2015, Dallas has gone undefeated in five bouts having scored wins in four of those fights. The lone exception was a ten round split decision draw in May 2016 with undefeated contender Dusty Hernandez Harrison. Although Dallas has won twenty-three of his twenty-eight professional fights, an argument can be made that his three career losses and two draws came when he attempted to step up in the caliber of his opposition.

The question going into this fight is what version of Mike Dallas shows up. There have been times throughout his career where he has appeared as though he could be on the verge of being a potential candidate for a world title shot, but there have also been times particularly during his career setbacks where he has appeared to freeze up. Whether or not that can be attributed to nerves is a question that only Dallas can answer, but this is something to keep in mind as this fight approaches.

 Dallas is not known for his punching power having scored knockouts in eleven of his twenty-three wins, but does have a good well-rounded skill set. The difference in this fight may come down to levels of opposition going into the fight. Statistically, Yordenis Ugas and Mike Dallas have similar records and like Dallas, Ugas has not scored a high number of knockouts in his career, but has shown he can compete effectively at or near the top level of the sport. Ugas has also established himself as a fighter that can grind out decision wins, often in closely fought grueling type fights.

If this fight goes into the middle and late rounds, it may come down to who is in better condition. Ugas is rated number three in the world in the WBC Welterweight ratings going into this fight. Even though some might argue that Ugas has the advantage as this fight approaches, he also has a lot to lose. In contrast to Ugas, Dallas, who is currently not rated in the WBC’s top forty contenders in the Welterweight division, is in a nothing to lose/everything to gain scenario and a victory will catapult him into the rankings. We will see what happens on Saturday, February 1st.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

Ugas vs. Dallas takes place on Saturday, February 1st at the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino in Biloxi, MS. The fight can be seen in the United States on Fox Sports 1on cable /satellite as well as the Fox Sports app beginning at 8PM ET/5PM PT. There will also be a portion of undercard bouts televised on both platforms beginning at 6:30PM ET/3:30PM PT. For more information about the card and ticket information please visit: www.PremierBoxingChampions.com. For more information about Fox Sports, Fox Sports 1 and a list of compatible streaming devices/platforms/Smart TVs where the Fox Sports app is available, please visit: www.FoxSports.com. Check your local listings internationally.

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

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Monday, January 27, 2020

Jackson England Sparring Former World Champion TJ Doheny Ahead Of March 6 Outing In Perth


Press Release: January 27, 2020 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Rising Australian Featherweight standout Jackson England has been sparring alongside world class company, as the Australasian Champion has been working alongside former IBF World Champion TJ Doheny.  
Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Mike Altamura and MTK Global guides Doheny put on one of the best fights of 2019 against unified world champion Danny Roman, and England has been working alongside the Irish 122 pound standout in preparation for their respective outings. 

England opened up about sparring with Doheny. He said, “Sparring TJ is fantastic. It is a great experience for myself and I’m really grateful to TJ and his team for giving me the opportunity to work with him ahead of my next fight. 

“I firmly believe I have all the potential to get to world level, so training alongside former world champions like TJ Doheny is only helping me progress as a fighter. 

“The sparring has been world class learning for me. I’ve learned so much from this work and I’m excited to take these learning experiences into my next fight.”

England, who is guided by Australian boxing honcho Tony Tolj, returns on March 6 on Dragon Fire Boxing’s Thunderdome event in Metro City, Perth. 

England discussed his plans for March 6 and beyond, “I am really excited to be back in action on March 6 and thank you to Tony Tolj for getting me back in action. 

“I want to show off the improvements I’ve made in camp first and foremost. I believe I am getting better all the time and I want to show that and that I’m ready for more titles in 2020. 

“I want to win more titles in 2020 so I need to put on a top class show to make people want to see me in titles fights next.  That’s what I want in 2020 so I want to put on a career best performance on March 6 to make sure I can get these title fights.

Material and Photo Courtesy of Dragon Fire Boxing 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. 

What Options Are Available For Danny Garcia?



The fight between former two-division world champion Danny Garcia and contender Ivan Redkach on January 25th at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY had one central subplot. It was not only an encounter between two fighters with crowd pleasing styles, but perhaps more importantly, it would determine a mandatory challenger in the World Boxing Council (WBC) Welterweight ratings. Despite some questions regarding the rankings of the two fighters that this observer discussed in previewing this fight, there was also an element of intrigue that surrounded this fight due largely to the styles of the two fighters, which indicated that it could be a competitive and exciting bout to watch. 

Although I stated prior to the fight that it was logical to expect Redkach to be aggressive, he needed to be tactical in his approach. The problem for Redkach was he was tactical to a point where he more or less was lulled into Garcia’s type of fight. This essentially allowed Garcia to dictate the tempo of the combat, generally getting his punches off first as well as being able to mix his offense up to the body and head. What was also prominent in Garcia’s offense was his accurate counter punching.

When a fighter falls into such a lull, the story of the fight more often than not centers on one fighter’s reluctance and/or inability to let his hands go. As the fight progressed, what was taking place in the ring at times resembled a competitive sparring session where the theme remained the same throughout. Garcia getting his punches off first and having his way inside the ring.

A sign of frustration in Redkach emerged in the eighth round where he bit Garcia on the shoulder while in a clinch. This along with periodic instances throughout the fight where he taunted Garcia including sticking his tongue out. Although clearly this was an attempt to goad Garcia into engaging in a slugfest, it did not do Redkach any favors as he would ultimately end up on the losing end of a twelve round unanimous decision to Garcia.

It goes without saying that sometimes the competitive fight that appears will be what takes place when two fighters enter the ring does not always materialize in the way it might appear will be the case on paper prior to a bout. This fight however, does serve as a clear demonstration of one fighter’s well-rounded skill set when matched against the type of opponent that allows that fighter to showcase his skills.

The obvious question emerging from this fight is what are the potential options for Danny Garcia going forward? In terms of what this fight accomplished for him beyond securing the thirty-sixth victory of his career was it puts him right back in position to fight for a world championship. The WBC Welterweight championship that Garcia held from January 2016 to March 2017. As this observer discussed in previewing this fight, this will depend on whether current unified IBF/WBC world champion Errol Spence, who has been sidelined due to injuries he suffered in a serious automobile accident in October of last year, will be able to return to the ring in a reasonable timeframe.

While it is too soon for one to make assumptions, the possibility does exist that Garcia could either be named champion by the WBC or at minimum be placed into a fight for the vacant WBC Welterweight world championship if Spence does not return to the ring in a certain period of time. Garcia meanwhile in the days leading up to his bout with Ivan Redkach, eluded to the possibility of moving up in weight to the 154lb. Jr. Middleweight division if a fight against Spence or current WBA world championship Manny Pacquiao can not be made.

In the current landscape of the 147lb. Welterweight division Spence and Pacquiao have established themselves as the two biggest names outside of current WBO world champion Terence Crawford in terms of being the most lucrative options available in the division. While one should also not dismiss the possibility of a potential fight with Garcia and Crawford, who is currently promoted by Bob Arum’s Top Rank, Inc,, the more compelling question will be asked of the promoters that currently do business under the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) banner where Garcia, Spence and Pacquiao currently compete under.

With one fighter clearly seeking the most lucrative opportunity available to him with his publicly stating that if he cannot get an opportunity that would be lucrative that he is open to the possibility of moving up in weight, this is something that the PBC group of promoters will have to address. In an ever evolving landscape where there are several networks, and promoters across both traditional and digital streaming platforms that are all vying for the interest of fighters that can help grow their platforms and subsequent standing within the sport, one should also not dismiss the possibility of a fighter possibly opting to offer his promotional rights to the highest bidder if an opportunity that fighter seeks is not presented to him by his current promoter.

Although as the competition has increased over the last year between networks and the general shift towards streaming has increased significantly, there has been talk amongst both promoters and networks to the concept of loyalty of fighters to both promoters and platforms. It is however, irrational for anyone to expect loyalty when fighters are not given the opportunities they seek. In a dangerous sport where a fighter’s career can unfortunately end in an instant without warning, the only loyalty a fighter should have is to themselves, their families, and anyone who will help them get the opportunities they want, which ultimately could/should prepare and set them up for a financially secure life after their days competing in the ring are over.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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

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Sunday, January 26, 2020

Garcia-Redkach Feature Update


We would like to let readers know that new material discussing the recent WBC Welterweight elimination bout between former world champion Danny Garcia and contender Ivan Redkach is in the works and will be released here on the website on Monday, January 27th. Stay tuned. “And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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Friday, January 24, 2020

Ramirez-Postol Postponed

It has been announced that the WBC Jr. Welterweight world championship bout between undefeated champion Jose Ramirez and former WBC world champion Viktor Postol has been postponed. The postponement of the fight, which was scheduled to take place on February 1st in the main event of an ESPN televised Boxing card  in the United States, from Haikou, China comes as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak that has severely affected the country. 

There is no word as of this writing as to when and where the fight will take place. We will update readers on any developments as they become available.

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

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Wednesday, January 22, 2020

Garcia-Redkach Preview


An important fight in Boxing’s 147lb. Welterweight division will take place on Saturday, January 25th as former Jr.Welterweight world champion Danny Garcia will face top contender Ivan Redkach at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. What makes this encounter between two of the top Welterweights in the world important? The fight, which will be broadcast in the United States by Showtime has implications for the future of the World Boxing Council (WBC) Welterweight world championship as it will determine a mandatory challenger for current IBF/WBC world champion Errol Spence.

As many Boxing fans know, Spence was involved in a serious automobile accident in October of last year, weeks after he successfully unified the IBF and WBC crowns with a twelve round unanimous decision over WBC champion Shawn Porter. Although Spence suffered some injuries in the accident where he was ejected from his Ferrari, he has said that he intends to return ti the ring. The circumstances regarding Spence’s situation is a subject to discuss at a later time, but how it relates to the Garcia-Redkach fight is that the elimination bout could ultimately determine a new WBC world champion if Spence is unable to return to the ring within a certain timeframe or if he is stripped by the WBC, with the likely reason being inactivity.

Before anything regarding that can be addressed, Danny Garcia and Ivan Redkach will do battle to at minimum determine a number one contender in the WBC Welterweight ratings. Garcia has been campaigning as a Welterweight since 2015, but has experienced some setbacks since moving up from the 140lb. Jr. Welterweight division. Despite winning the vacant WBC Welterweight world championship in January 2016 with a twelve round unanimous decision over Robert Guerrero, Garcia’s reign would be short as he would lose a close twelve round split device in a unification bout with WBA champion Keith Thurman in March 2017. This would be followed by another setback when he came out on the short end of a twelve round unanimous decision to Shawn Porter in September 2018 in a bout for the then vacant WBC crown.

In his last fight, Garcia scored a seventh round knockout over Adrian Granados in April of last year. Garcia is a boxer/puncher who has a compact offensive style. This has worked well for him as he can counter opponents in between their offense while also being able to avoid damage. Although Garcia has won thirty-five of his thirty-seven professional fights, the two fights he lost were largely a result of both Keith Thurman and Shawn Porter being able to out work him over the course of those bouts.

Ivan Redkach meanwhile will come into this fight rated number twenty-five in the WBC’s Welterweight ratings compared to Garcia’s number two rating. The subject of rankings in the sport is something that is always open to criticism, debate, and ridicule. Based on the current rankings, it is understandable how some might question why a fighter who is rated number two in the world by an organization is facing a fighter that is rated twenty-fifth in a fight that is billed as a world championship elimination bout. The politics that be in the sport notwithstanding, Boxing as this observer has often said over the years, is a sport of opportunity and obviously if Redkach can win this fight it will propel him into an opportunity to at least fight for a world championship.

Redkach is a former United States Boxing Association (USBA) champion as a Lightweight, but has thus far failed to earn a notable win against a fighter that most would consider to be championship level. Redkach will enter this fight with Garcia riding a three fight winning streak having scored knockouts in two of those bouts including in his last fight in June of last year when he stopped former Jr. Welterweight world champion Devon Alexander in six rounds. Although this does qualify as a notable win in the eyes of yours truly, some might feel that Redkach defeated a fighter in Alexander, who is on the decline. If Redkach can win this fight however, he will have to be given his due by those who might be questioning why he is in this fight.

In terms of what one can expect when the two fighters get in the ring, it is logical to expect Redkach to be aggressive. If this is the case, Redkach must be tactical in his approach. One might argue that Redkach could have a slight edge in terms of power given that he has a career knockout percentage of over 60% having scored knockouts in eighteen of his twenty-three wins.  He must keep in mind that he is facing a precision counter puncher in Garcia that has proven his ability to catch fighters in between punches they throw with punches they cannot see coming.

What may loom ahead for the winner of this fight beyond a potential opportunity to fight Errol Spence,if not potentially earning a vacant world championship with a victory, could be a possible opportunity to face current WBA world champion Manny Pacquiao, who is a fighter that per his Hall of Fame resume, is one of the most sought after fighters in the sport because of the notoriety and lucrative opportunity he brings with him. 

With several possibilities that could loom for the winner of this fight, it shouldn’t be difficult to see that there is a lot at stake for both fighters. Such circumstances can produce compelling and competitive fights. Whether or not the Danny Garcia-Ivan Redkach fight is such an occasion remains to be seen.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”


Garcia vs. Redkach takes place on Saturday, January 25th at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. The fight can be seen in the United States on Showtime beginning at 9PM ET/6PM PT on cable/satellite providers as well as the Showtime and Showtime Anytime streaming apps. For more information about Showtime, Showtime Sports, and the Showtime and Showtime Anytime streaming apps please visit: www.SHO.com. For additional ticket availability and fight card information please visit: www.premierboxingchampions.com/ and www.BarclaysCenter.com. Check your local TV listings internationally.

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

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