Veteran Media and Entertainment Executive David Tetreault Named President of Lights Out Productions, Parent Company of BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing and Trigon Combat

Credit: BKB

Press Release: May 23, 2025 By BKB: Bare Knuckle Boxing - MIAMI, FLORIDA – Mike Vazquez, owner of Lights Out Productions, parent company of BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing and its developmental league Trigon Combat, announced today the hiring of David Tetreault, a 30-veteran of the media, sports and entertainment industry, as company President.

Previously, Tetreault held executive positions at Sony Pictures, Warner Brothers, FOX, Clear TV, Golden Boy Productions and Triller.  At FOX, he served as Senior Vice President of Marketing and developed award-winning campaigns for The Simpson’s, American Idol, 24, The X Files and many others. At Golden Boy, serving as the Chief Business Officer, he struck multimillion dollar network deals with Facebook Watch, ESPN and HBO. Tetreault led and negotiated the $600 million deal with DAZN as it became the exclusive home of Canelo Alverez. Tetreault most recently served as President of Triller Fight Club and Chief Business Officer of Triller-owned Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), where he oversaw content strategy, global television rights deals, and integrated sponsorship and marketing initiatives. He also served as Executive Producer for all live sporting events, televised programming, and short-form digital content. Under his leadership, Triller Fight Club produced the historic exhibition bout between eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao and South Korean martial artist DK Yoo, held on December 11, 2022, at the Korea International Exhibition Center (KINTEX) in Seoul.

In addition to his executive leadership in combat sports and media, Tetreault serves as an adjunct professor at the University of San Francisco and California State University, Los Angeles, where he teaches graduate-level courses in Strategic Management, Sports Business, and Entertainment Marketing. His dual roles in academia and industry reflect a commitment to both innovation and mentorship across the next generation of sports and media professionals.

Said Vazquez, “Lights Out has seen accelerated, strategic growth this past year, with the acquisition of the UK-based BKB to become the largest bare knuckle boxing company in the world, the acquisition of the historic and prestigious Police Gazette Diamond Belt which now serves as the Bare Knuckle Boxing World Championship, securing multiple live television and streaming deals on both sides of the Atlantic, and now the creation of Trigon Combat.

“As we look ahead, having a leader with David at the helm will only make BKB and Trigon Combat better, as we look to go from being the world’s preeminent bare knuckle boxing company to a complete combat sports and entertainment property. From his experience securing massive media rights deals and integrated partnerships, his understanding of ever-evolving media platforms and consumer habits, and his success in live sports, including bare knuckle boxing, our potential in the coming months to redefine the combat sports landscape is exponential and he’s uniquely qualified to lead us on that journey.”

Said Tetreault, “From the very top down, Lights Out/BKB is one of the most professionally-run, creative and strategic combat sports properties in the world.  It owns all of its intellectual property, is one of two organizations to hold a patent on its ring, and has made substantive moves that have positioned BKB as a breakout platform. It is the next investable format in global combat sports. It has one of the largest fighter rosters in combat sports, has global scalability, event flexibility, and is syndication-ready.  I’m excited to be on the team and look forward to making an immediate impact.”

To learn more about BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing visit bkbbareknuckle.com.  For more information on Trigon Combat, visit trigoncombat.com.

UPCOMING BKB SCHEDULE

Broadcast on VICE TV and TalkSPORT

 

BKB 41: Brawl in Duval II, Jacksonville, FL, May 31

BKB 42: Music City Brawl, Nashville, TN, June 21

BKB 43: Bolton Brawl, Bolton, UK, July 5

BKB 44: Denver Brawl V, Denver, CO, August 16

UPCOMING TRIGON COMBAT SCHEDULE

TRYOUTS: San Antonio, TX, May 31

FIGHT: Myrtle Beach, SC, June 12

TRYOUTS: Fayetteville, NC, July 12

TRYOUTS: San Diego, CA, July 26

Material and Photo Courtesy of: BKB: Bare Knuckle Boxing Used with permission.

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

Harper Set To Defend Lightweight Crown Against Zimmermann

On Friday, May 23rd, a world championship bout will occur in the Women's Lightweight division featuring three-division world champion and current holder of the WBO crown against unbeaten former IBF Women's World Jr. Welterweight champion Natalie Zimmermann at Keepmoat Stadium in Doncaster, England. A world title bout that can be seen globally on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN.

This will be the first defense of the WBO World Lightweight championship for Harper that she won in September of last year with a ten round unanimous decision over Rhiannon Dixon in Sheffield, England. Harper, who has won world titles from the 130lb. Jr. Lightweight division to the 154lb. Jr. Middleweight division has rightfully earned her place as one of the biggest stars in Women's Boxing. Like many female fighters in the sport, Harper has moved up and down the weight scale depending on the fight and opportunity. While that is an indication of a sport that is still very much in its growing stages for women competing in it both in terms of available weight classes and significantly more opportunities than had been the case in decades past, it will be interesting to see whether along with growth of the sport overall if fighters like Harper will choose to prioritize a division where they feel most comfortable competing in, much like their male counterparts or if the emphasis will seemingly continue to remain on what opportunities might be available on a fight by fight basis. With seemingly more women competing than ever before in the sport and more divisions being available to compete in, there may come a point where the potential to move up or down in weight may not be as lucrative or enticing, simply because with more competition in each respective division, there will be more options for fighters to remain in their division of choice if they choose to do so.

Although the sport may not quite be at that point at present time, Harper has been one of those fighters who has shown that she can compete effectively in multiple divisions and it will be interesting to see where she eventually lands. For the moment, the task at hand for the champion, who will enter this bout with a record of 15-2-2, with 6 Knockouts, will be defending her World Lightweight championship.

The challenger Natalie Zimmermann will enter this bout, attempting to become a two-division world champion, unbeaten with a record of 13-0, with 3 Knockouts. In her last bout in September of last year, Zimmermann scored a ten round decision over Katerina Dvorakova in Spain.

What this fight appears to be is an encounter between two boxers who are experienced both in going the distance and outworking their opponents to win decision victories. While the champion has three more knockouts in her career compared to Zimmermann, neither are known for having punching power. Given the Boxing ability each has, it will be interesting to see if one takes a more aggressive approach than would be the norm in an attempt to get an advantage early. 

Although bouts in Women's Boxing have sporadically begun using three minute rounds, the same as in Men's bouts, the majority of bouts for women are still held with two minute rounds. This normally means fights are fought at a quick pace and given the similarities between these two boxers, who both know how to win rounds and compile points in the process, it would not surprise this observer if both fighters are able to find success to see this potentially end in a close decision. Whomever comes out on top here, the question that will likely follow coming out of this fight is whether the winner will look towards competing in a different weight class next depending on what opportunities might be available, or whether or not possible unification of the Lightweight division could be on the table. 

“And That's The Boxing Truth." 

Harper vs. Zimmermann takes place on Friday, May 23rd at Keepmoat Stadium in Doncaster, England. The fight can be seen globally on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN beginning at 1PM ET/10AM PT. (*U.S. Times Only.*)

(*Card and Start Times Subject To Change.*)

For more information about DAZN including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices, platforms, Smart TVs, availability around the world, local start times in your area, and to subscribe please visit: www.DAZN.com. 

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MOST VALUABLE PROMOTIONS SIGNS UNDEFEATED POWERHOUSE AVIOUS “THA UNDERDOG” GRIFFIN

Press Release: May 21, 2025 By Most Valuable Promotions- MVP bolsters its roster with the signing of Griffin, a rising star with a 17-0 record and 94% knockout rate, further solidifying its commitment to showcasing boxing’s most compelling rising stars

LAS VEGAS, NV – May 20, 2025 – Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) today announced the signing of Avious “Tha Underdog” Griffin (17-0, 16 KOs), one of boxing’s most electrifying rising stars in the 147lb division. Hailing from Chattanooga, Tennessee, and now based in Las Vegas, Nevada, the 31-year-old welterweight sensation joins MVP’s elite roster, bringing his devastating 94% knockout rate, ten-fight knockout streak, and an inspiring story of resilience that has captivated the boxing world. Griffin’s addition underscores MVP’s mission to identify and elevate young prospects and contenders with star potential.

Avious Griffin has quickly emerged as a force in the 147-pound division, boasting an unblemished 17-0 record with 16 knockouts. With a relentless style and staggering 94% stoppage rate, the Las Vegas-based fighter originally from Chattanooga, Tennessee continues to prove why he's one of the most dangerous and exciting welterweights in the sport today. 

Since early 2024, Griffin has trained under the esteemed Brian “BoMac” McIntyre, widely recognized for guiding Terence Crawford’s rise to championship status. He also works closely with Esau Diéguez and renowned strength and conditioning coach Larry Wade, who joined his team in October 2023. Together, this elite team has helped transform Griffin into one of the sport’s most dangerous and disciplined rising contenders. On February 20, 2025, Griffin captured the vacant WBC USA Welterweight Title by stopping Jose Luis Sanchez in the eighth round at Sony Hall in New York City. 

Griffin’s rise has been shaped by extraordinary personal resilience. Introduced to boxing at age eight by his father, Alvin, the sport quickly became both a passion and a powerful bond between them. In 2016, just weeks before Griffin’s professional debut, Alvin passed away unexpectedly from a brain hemorrhage  as Avious frantically rushed his dad to the hospital—a devastating loss that Griffin continues to honor through his career. The following year brought another life-altering setback: a wrongful murder conviction that led to 11 months of incarceration before his exoneration. These hardships forged Griffin’s “TTD” (To The Death) mentality—an ethos that powers his performance in the ring and his commitment to breaking generational cycles of poverty, while advocating for mental health and addiction recovery. With a compelling personal story and elite performance inside the ropes, Avious Griffin represents one of the most promising new faces in professional boxing.

“I’m thrilled to join Most Valuable Promotions, a team that truly values fighters and their stories,” said Avious Griffin. “Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian are building something special, giving athletes like me a platform to shine. My journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s made me who I am—a fighter in and out of the ring. With MVP behind me, I’m ready to chase world titles, while being a motivational, inspirational vessel of God, and show the world what Tha Underdog is all about.”

“Avious Griffin is an exceptional talent whose combination of elite power, mental toughness, and personal resilience positions him for long-term success in the sport,” said Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “His compelling backstory and knockout ability make him one of the most exciting rising contenders in boxing, and we believe he has the potential to become a global star. We’re proud to welcome Avious to the MVP family and give him the platform he deserves to reach the top of the sport and inspire the world in the process.”

Griffin joins MVP’s powerhouse roster of athletes and up-and-coming talents including international superstar Jake “El Gallo” Paul, boxing trailblazer and unified featherweight world champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano, undisputed super featherweight world champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner, MVP’s first homegrown champion, the new WBO super middleweight champion Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green, reigning unified bantamweight world champion and Boxrec’s #1 pound-for-pound female boxer Dina Thorslund, IBF and Ring Magazine super middleweight world champion at 168lbs Savannah “The Silent Assassin” Marshall, WBC super lightweight interim world champion at 140lbs Chantelle “Il Capo” Cameron. English boxing phenom and unified 122lb super bantamweight world champion Ellie Scotney, IBF bantamweight world champion at 118lbs Shurretta Metcalf (14-4-1, 2 KOs), Spain’s WBA Interim featherweight world champion at 126lbs Jennifer Miranda (12-0, 1 KO), multi-talented megastar Javon “Wanna” Walton, India’s most successful professional boxer Neeraj Goyat, top-ranked lightweight “Prince” Lucas Bahdi, Puerto Rican sensation Krystal Rosado, three-time US national boxing champion and high-fashion model Alexis “Chop Chop” Chaparro, Puerto Rican National Team star Jan Paul Rivera, 2x Canadian Olympian and amateur world champion Tamm Thibeault, 2x US national amateur champion and rising bantamweight star Alexander “The Alley Cat” Gueche, Nigeria’s 126lb featherweight Elizabeth Oshoba, the multi-talented Somali-British boxer, activist, and high fashion model Ramla Ali, Costa Rica’s 20-year-old undefeated WBC Youth light flyweight world champion Naomy Valle, 15x US national amateur champion Nat “No Love”' Dove, two-time Brazilian Olympian Keno Marley, undefeated Yolanda Vega and Boxrec’s #2 greatest pound-for-pound women’s boxer of all time and former UFC 135lb champion Holly “The Preacher's Daughter” Holm.

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions, @JakePaul, and @AviousGriffin, or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions, @JakePaul, and @aviousgriffin.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

MVP was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP has produced Jake Paul’s last six global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Perry match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano, in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April 2022 when Serrano went head-to-head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. MVP made history again in November 2024 with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Taylor vs. Serrano 2, the first-ever live professional sports event on Netflix, which became the most-streamed sporting event ever with 108 million live viewers globally. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of Paul vs. Tyson and the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., the 8th most-bought pay-per-view event in history.

Material Courtesy of: Most Valuable Promotions Used with permission.

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

Allen Evens The Score With Fisher In Rematch

The premise leading into the rematch between undefeated Heavyweight contender Johnny Fisher and longtime veteran of the Heavyweight division Dave Allen was whether the unbeaten Fisher could validate his victory in the first encounter between the two men in December of last year in Saudi Arabia. In that fight, Fisher started out well, but it was Allen who was able to gradually rally as the fight progressed, forcing a fight in close quarters and seemed to wind up on the wrong end of a decision that some felt he had done enough to win.

What became a close fight set up the ideal scenario for a rematch, which took place on May 17th at the Copper Box Arena in London, England. For a period of time, this return bout seemed as though it would follow a similar pattern to that of the first fight. Allen gradually trying to walk Fisher down and get on the inside where the terms of combat would be more favorable for him, Fisher trying to keep him at distance with his longer arms where it was more to his advantage.

In a slight adjustment from the first fight, Fisher attempted to box behind his jab, move to try and evade Allen as he came forward, and if he was not able to move, try to tie him up and prevent him from getting his punches off on the inside, which Allen was able to do effectively in the first encounter. Despite applying consistent pressure as he had done the first time around, Allen had trouble early landing punches consistently, which is attributed to the tactical adjustments that Fisher appeared to make prior to this rematch.

Fisher appeared to momentarily stun Allen with a right hand to the body that sent him back against the ropes. While this sequence was only brief, it appeared that Fisher may have found a target to try and focus his offense as he was able to land a few more solid shots to the body before the round was over. 

It would be late in round four, however, where Allen would subtly, but notably start to turn the tide in his favor when he connected with an overhand right that narrowly missed landing flush on the jaw of Fisher by mere inches. Allen would seize the opportunity in the fifth round.

The right hand that Allen barely missed landing perfectly in round four would land squarely late in round five. The right hand to the head would be followed by a left to the body, stunning the unbeaten Fisher. Although he briefly attempted to return the favor with punches of his own, Allen pressed forward and a few unanswered blows would send Flusher down to the canvas. Fisher showed his mettle getting up from the knockdown, but Allen, knowing his opponent was hurt, did not let him off the hook. 

A barrage of unanswered blows put Fisher against the ropes before a left to the jaw sent him face down in the closing seconds of the round. As the bell rang to end the round, Fisher's corner threw their towel in across the ring to prevent their fighter from further punishment. Allen had not only succeeded in avenging his loss to Fisher, but in doing so, arguably scored the biggest win of his career and a potential Knockout of the Year candidate as well.

Fisher remained down on the canvas for several minutes and was administered oxygen before getting up and congratulating Allen on his victory. For Dave Allen, a veteran of thirty-three professional fights in a thirteen year pro career that has seen highs, lows, starts, and stops along the way, this victory over the previously unbeaten Johnny Fisher who was rapidly ascending up towards a top ten ranking in the Heavyweight division after scoring knockouts of eleven of his first thirteen opponents, this could be the beginning of a career resurgence for him. 

While the end of this fight came quickly, the result was a brutal knockout and this observer feels, despite the fact that Fisher and Allen were rematched immediately following their close fight last December, it may be wise for Fisher and his handlers to resist the temptation for a third fight at least in the immediate future. It is important to keep in mind that though interest in a third fight will be high, Fisher was on the receiving end of a severe knockout and this in addition to it being the first loss of his professional career, it might be in his best interest to take some time to make sure he adequately recovers both physically and mentally and then try to ease back into things before seeking a third fight with this rivalry now even at 1-1 between himself and Allen. If Fisher comes back too soon and is pitted against Allen within a narrow timeframe as was the case between fights one and two, it may cause further damage to what to this point had been a steady rise up the Heavyweight ranks. The sensible approach? Take time, recover, regroup, and possibly take a step back in terms of level of opposition to test the waters before seeking a third fight with Allen.

“And That's The Boxing Truth." 

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Francis Chua Is Fighting For Family In Comeback Fight As He Eyes Future Fight With Harry Garside

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Press Release: May 15, 2025 By Dragon Fire Boxing - On the 30th of May, Dragon Fire Boxing hits the Metro City Arena for the second time this year for Thunderdome 50.

 

The main event features the return of Francis “The Removalist” Chua who takes on China’s 4th ranked lightweight Xiaotao Su 

 

This fight is Chua’s first in three years and it will be for the WBC Australasia Silver Lightweight title. A victory for the Aussie could possibly lead to bigger opportunities over east, more specifically in the form of Harry Garside.

 

When speaking to the 39-year-old, Chua said that he was excited to fight for a WBC title in his first outing after his hiatus.

 

“This is what gives me drive to go to training” Chua told, “This will boost me right back

into the rankings and this guy is [ranked] number four in China.

 

“It’s going to be a hard fight coming back but it's what I want, I don't want to just come back for easy fights.

 

“It's been over three years now since the last time I fought in Sydney against a highly rated Japanese opponent. I didn’t go into that with the best preparation, so I want to try to redeem myself on this one”.

 

When his fight was announced Chua made an Instagram post to his followers, revealing that the fight was about more than just a championship, it was “deeply personal to him”.

 

When asked about this statement, Chua revealed that he has been through some devastating times in his personal life, with the passing of a long-time friend as well as his father.

  

“[One of my friends] was so happy to see me fighting again he always wanted to watch me fight, but he ended up taking his own life, that really hit me.

 

“My father passed away three years ago as well, around the same time I separated that was also hard. It's just me and my daughter Ariani.

 

“My current fiancé holds the family together while I work hard, without her looking after my daughter training would be impossible. 

 

“It's sad but I always know that even though they're not here they're still watching from the heavens, that's what gives me a lot of drive to perform.”

 

Despite these heartbreaks, the Perth fighter is desperate to make his last run, one for the Australian Boxing history books, as well as making his daughter proud through his hard work and commitment to the sport.

 

“[My daughter] really wants this” Chua revealed “she knows it makes me happy when I go training even though it's been hard especially with my age, I like trying to keep up with the young boys.

 

“[I want to send her a message that if] you’re focused on something you can do it, I'm just hoping that she can see how hard I work and really appreciate it. I want her to be proud of me, that's what gives me a bit more drive as well, because I don't want to let anyone down.

 

“Things are coming together, I'm starting to feel good now, I think it'll be exciting when 30th of May arrives. This guy's going to be 10 years younger than me, let's see if I have still got it.”

 

This upcoming run will most likely be the last of Chua’s career. Although he is not looking past his Chinese foe, he does have some goals that he wants to accomplish before he retires.

 

“[I would like to fight for] an Australian title” Chua revealed.

 

“The opportunities for [No Limit] Boxing will come up because when I win this title other

Aussies will want it, they'll come knocking and they'll be asking.”

 

“Opportunities will come and I just want to be ready for them.”

 

Throughout his career Chua has fought top tier fighters such as Liam Wilson and Kye Mackenzie, the latter being ranked second in the WBO at the time of his victory. 

 

Before Francis Chua hangs up the gloves he wants one more fight against a big name in Australian boxing, one name that stands out is Harry Garside.

 

“I’d love to fight [Garside] but one fight at a time” Chua said, “We fought on the same card on my last fight and I met him there, I would love to fight an Olympian. “I would love to test myself against him one day, I hear he’s fighting soon so he’s getting back into it.”

 

“I’m very grateful for Tony [Tolj] and DragonFire Promotions for giving me this opportunity as well as everyone who supports me along the way.

 

“I want to be the best I can be for my loved ones, boxing helps me do that.”

 

Standing in his way however is Xiaotao Su, Su is ranked as the fourth best Lightweight in China and could prove to be a tough task for Chua.

 

With a record of fourteen wins and seven losses, Su is a very credible opponent for Chua to add to his resume.

 

Regarding the style of fight he expects, Chua thinks that the fight is going to be an all-out war.

 

“It's going to be toe-to-toe in the middle of the ring.” Chua told.

 

“It's going to be a really exciting fight, we are both aggressive fighters but I'm hoping to land the cleaner and harder shots.”

 

With clear ambitions and motivation for what is left of his fighting career, it will be interesting to see where Francis Chua’s journey takes him.

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission.

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

Fisher-Allen II: Who Will Take The Next Step Forward?

In December of last year undefeated rising Heavyweight contender Johnny Fisher was given an opportunity that represented a step up in his career. Not only was the unbeaten “Knockout Artist" given a position on a major card headlined by the World Heavyweight championship rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, but the fight represented what was seen as a step up in competition for him in the form of longtime veteran Dave Allen.

For most of the early rounds, it appeared as though Fisher would pass this test with flying colors in picking up the World Boxing Association’s Intercontinental Heavyweight title, which while not a major milestone, carries with it the chance to move into the top ten rankings in a given division. As Fisher set a high pace and kept Allen mostly on the defensive, it had the appearance of a fight that was heading towards either a wide decision victory on the scorecards or potentially a late stoppage for a fighter in Fisher, who had knocked out eleven of his previous twelve opponents prior to this bout, then suddenly as tends to be the case in combat sports, just when it appears a fighter is dominating the action, a real test emerges.

In this case, it would come in the fifth round when Allen connected with a flush left hook to the jaw that sent Fisher down to the canvas for the first time in his career. Often, it is a situation that many look to when observing the rise of a rising prospect where they want to see how the fighter deals with adversity. Fisher got up from the knockdown and appeared legitimately hurt, but managed to gradually find his footing and begin returning offense. While the first four rounds saw Fisher build a decent lead for himself on the scorecards, from the point where the knockdown occurred through the remainder of the twelve round bout proved to be a grueling back and forth battle where Fisher was able to edge out a split decision victory.

Although some may have expected the outcome of a win for Fisher going into the fight, the perception of at least some coming out of it was either that Allen had done enough to win the fight or at minimum, the scoring was too close for comfort for a contender on the rise in Fisher. Ideal circumstances to warrant a rematch.

A rematch that will take place on Saturday, May 17th at the Copper Box Arena in London England, which can be seen globally on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN. This should be viewed as a good thing for the sport because in all truth and honesty with the reader, return bouts like this do not always happen. It can after all be common to see a prospect after surviving a close call like the one Fisher had against Allen, to see the fighter’s handlers move the fighter in a different direction, not so much due to fear of the opponent, but to give their fighter time to rethink and try to figure out what adjustments need to be made moving forward. 

As refreshing as it is to see a veteran like Dave Allen, who was regarded as little more than an opponent when he fought Fisher, being given another chance without much time in between fights, there is also a risk attached for Fisher. Despite coming out on the losing end in their first encounter, Allen should have all the confidence in the world going into this rematch. He not only dropped a fighter who has built a reputation early in his career for scoring quick knockouts, but the result of it being a close split decision against him should provide the necessary motivation to come into the ring even more determined.

The risk here for Fisher beyond giving his opponent another chance and the obvious risk of his unbeaten record is the potential for the wrong type of exposure. This observer is reminded of another Heavyweight that had a similar rise as Fisher in the professional ranks, who I covered on that rise several years ago. I am referring to David Price, the 2008 Olympian, who turned pro in 2009 and carved out a reputation as a “Knockout Artist" similar to the one that Fisher has established for himself. 

After knocking out thirteen of his first fifteen opponents, the decision was made to match Price with a recent world title challenger in the form of longtime top contender Tony Thompson in an obvious strategy to catapult him towards a potential world title shot. The strategy proved to be disastrous. When the two met in February 2013, Thompson's experience proved to be too much for Price. A right hand to the temple sent Price down in the second round and almost in an instant, Price went from a fast-rising contender looking like a potential World Heavyweight champion, to a question mark as he was stopped by Thompson.

In a questionable move given that the knockout he suffered seemed severe, Price made the decision to rematch with Thompson in his very next fight only five months later. Despite dropping Thompson in the second round of the rematch, the result was the same, this time Thompson stopped Price in five rounds. Two fights ended up exposing Price’s vulnerability in a case where it was too much too soon and he was never the same fighter after that retiring in 2019 with a 25-7, with 20 Knockouts record. Though Price would show a lot of heart in fights he lost, he was unable to fulfill the potential and star quality that he appeared to have that had this observer touting him as a potential world champion for a period of time.

Although there is no similarity between Johnny Fisher and David Price at this point beyond the label of “Knockout Artist" in similar rises to the point where Fisher finds himself at this stage in his career, the possibility of Dave Allen potentially being able to improve on his performance last December and take advantage of any perceived flaws is very real and should not be dismissed. How does Fisher improve on his performance and remove a potential question mark that some may have placed before him? 

When he was able to keep Allen at distance with his longer reach, Fisher was dominating the action where Allen could not get his punches off consistently and only had sporadic success in throwing wide, looping hooks. It was only when Allen was able to close that distance and get in close that the tempo of the combat began to change.Fisher was also caught and dropped while the fight was being fought in close because he left himself open for the left hook.

While it is easier said than done, Fisher needs to have a disciplined Boxing approach here. This means look to keep Allen at the end of his punches and mix his offense to the body as well as the head, a strategy that worked well for him in the early rounds of the first fight. The key here will be whether he will be able to maintain that approach, if he implements it, if he has success including possibly knocking Allen down. Fisher must not be overly aggressive even if he finds success and might have an opportunity to stop Allen. The possibility of leaving himself open while attempting to finish an opponent definitely exists here so he needs to proceed with caution should it get to that point because it has already been established that Allen does have the punching power to drop him. 

If Allen manages to close the distance, Fisher should hold on the inside and not give Allen an opening to potentially catch him as he was able to do in the first fight. If he has trouble keeping his hands up or bringing his hands back up after throwing punches on the inside, a problem some fighters have that can only be corrected in the gym, Fisher will need to tie him up on the inside and force the referee to separate them to re-establish distance. Often such an approach may not be the most entertaining to watch, but it is effective when executed properly.

For Dave Allen, a veteran of thirty-two professional fights, he needs to find a way to get inside of Fisher’s longer arms and force the fight on the inside. He must tighten his punches and try to avoid throwing wide looping punches, particularly with hooks. Allen must find a way to get inside and avoid taking the type of punishment he had taken in the early rounds when Fisher was able to keep him on the end of his punches and land to the body and head. Attempting to utilize a jab as he comes forward and using head and upper body movement to try and deflect or at least minimize Fisher’s punches could be an effective approach to get in close. 

For Fisher, who is currently rated number thirteen in the WBA Heavyweight ratings, should he win this fight, he could be in a position to try to break into the top ten later this year. If Allen can get the win some feel free deserved in the first fight, this time around, it will obviously put him into a similar position as Fisher currently finds himself in. A high stakes confrontation in the Heavyweight division. We will see who will be able to take the next step forward in their careers.

“And That's The Boxing Truth."

Fisher vs. Allen 2 takes place on Saturday, May 17th at Copper Box Arena in London, England. The fight as well as it's full undercard can be seen globally on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN beginning at 11:45 AM ET/8:45AM PT with Before the Bell, which will feature preliminary bouts, which will be followed by the main card that will begin at 2PM ET/11AM PT. (*U.S. Times Only.*)

(*Card and Start Times Subject to Change.*)

For more information about DAZN including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices, platforms, Smart TVs, availability around the world, local start times in your area, and to subscribe please visit: www.DAZN.com. 

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MOST VALUABLE PROMOTIONS ANNOUNCES BLOCKBUSTER SIGNINGS OF SAVANNAH MARSHALL AND CHANTELLE CAMERON

Press Release: May 13, 2025  By Most Valuable Promotions - NEW YORK, NY – May 12, 2025 – In a groundbreaking move that cements Most Valuable Promotions’ (MVP) position as a powerhouse in global women’s boxing, the company welcomes two of the sport’s most accomplished champions, IBF and Ring Magazine super middleweight world champion at 168lbs Savannah “The Silent Assassin” Marshall (13-1, 10 KOs) and WBC interim world super lightweight champion at 140lbs Chantelle “Il Capo” Cameron (20-1, 8 KOs). Marshall and Cameron join MVP’s unified super bantamweight champion Ellie Scotney as the company continues to build the most dominant UK roster of female athletes. Both former undisputed champions, Marshall and Cameron join MVP at a pivotal moment for the sport, as MVP now boasts four of BoxRec and ESPN’s current top 10 pound-for-pound women’s fighters.

IBF and Ring Magazine super middleweight world champion Savannah “The Silent Assassin” Marshall (13-1, 10 KOs) is a two-weight world champion, formerly the undisputed super middleweight world champion in 2023 at 168lbs and WBO middleweight champion from 2020 to 2022 at 160lbs. Marshall began her boxing journey at age 12 before making history as Britain’s first-ever female amateur world champion at the AIBA Women’s World Boxing Championships in 2012, handing Claressa Shields the only defeat of her career on her way to the gold, sparking one of boxing’s most talked-about rivalries. Marshall went on to compete for Team Great Britain at the 2012 London Olympics before winning gold again at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and returning to represent the UK at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Following her impressive amateur career, Marshall turned professional in 2017, making her debut against Sydney LeBlanc on the high-profile undercard of Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor in Las Vegas. In October 2020, she captured the WBO middleweight world title with a dominant TKO victory over Hannah Rankin, handing her fellow Brit the only stoppage defeat of her career. Marshall successfully defended her title three times, winning every bout with a knockout finish before at last meeting Claressa Shields in the ring in October 2022. The bout headlined the first-ever all-female boxing card in the United Kingdom, attracting a record-breaking audience of over two million viewers on Sky Sports, the largest live TV audience for a women’s sporting event in Sky Sports history. Despite a valiant effort, Marshall lost by decision to Shields. Following the bout, Marshall moved up to the super middleweight division at 168 lbs to face Franchón Crews-Dezurn in July 2023 and became the undisputed super middleweight world champion. In 2024, Marshall also made her MMA debut in the PFL, continuing to prove her combat sports dominance as she won by first round TKO. Marshall resides in Hartlepool, England and trains under renowned boxing coach Peter Fury.

"I'm delighted to say I'm now part of MVP - who, more than any other promoter, recognise the value that women bring to this sport,” said Savannah Marshall. "Through Jake and Nakisa, they also have a very unique, refreshing approach to the fight game. They think out of the box. They're different. And boxing overall benefits from such trailblazers. It's an exciting time to join their team alongside so many other accomplished female fighters. As a two-weight world champion and previously achieving Undisputed, it only feels natural to be here, and I cannot wait to begin fighting under their banner."

Former undisputed super lightweight champion at 140lbs and current WBC interim world super lightweight champion Chantelle “Il Capo” Cameron (20-1, 8 KOs) is one of the most-recognized names in women’s boxing. Born in Northampton, UK, the 33-year-old began her combat sports career in kickboxing at the age of 10 and later muay thai at age 16 after being inspired by Buffy the Vampire Slayer and films featuring prominent movie star and martial artist Jean-Claude Van Damme. Throughout her amateur career she boasted an undefeated record with titles across kickboxing before taking up boxing at age 18, immediately showing her potential by winning silver at the 2010 EU Championships in Hungary and bronze at the 2011 EU Championships in Poland. Cameron made her professional debut in boxing in May 2017 with a sound defeat of Karina Kopinska, launching her meteoric rise in the sport. In just her fifth professional fight in December 2017, Cameron earned her first title honors, securing the then-vacant IBO lightweight world title by stoppage over Viviane Obenauf. In 2020, Cameron moved up to contend for the then-vacant WBC super lightweight world title, soundly dismantling Adriana Dos Santos Araujo by unanimous decision to become a two-division champion. Following a successful first defense, Cameron unified her titles against Mary McGee in October 2021, earning a unanimous decision win to add the IBF and Ring Magazine titles to her WBC super lightweight hardware. Just over a year later in November 2022, Cameron successfully defeated Jessica McCaskill to become the undisputed super lightweight champion at 140 lbs. Cameron’s undisputed reign came to head as she sparked her rivalry with Ireland’s Katie Taylor in May 2023 and the pair faced down on Taylor’s home soil in Dublin. Cameron came away with a majority decision victory, successfully defending her undisputed crown and setting the stage for the pair’s rematch in November, another hard-fought battle resulting in a majority decision for Taylor. Cameron returned to the ring in July 2024 with her sights still set on the super lightweight division, defeating Elhem Mekhaled to secure the WBC interim super lightweight title. Cameron most recently defended her title in November 2024 against Patricia Berghult, taking home another unanimous decision win. Cameron, currently ESPN’s #4 and Boxrec’s #8 pound-for–pound women’s boxer in the world, resides in Northampton, England and trains under Stephen Smith.

“I'm very excited about this move. MVP has been nothing but encouraging in talks regarding myself and female boxing,” said Chantelle Cameron. “This is a fantastic opportunity for the next stage of my career and an unbelievable platform to showcase my boxing ability. I'd like to thank Nakisa Bidarian, Jake Paul, and the whole MVP team for making this whole transition very easy for me.”

Most Valuable Promotions is expanding its commitment to women’s boxing in 2025 with the signings of champions Savannah Marshall and Chantelle Cameron, following its historic lifetime agreement with seven-division world champion Amanda Serrano, who will complete her career under the MVP banner before becoming Chairwoman of MVP’s women’s boxing initiatives. In this new role, Serrano will lead efforts to identify, sign, develop, and market MVP’s growing roster of female athletes. MVP also announced the Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano trilogy fight, set for Friday, July 11 at Madison Square Garden and airing globally on Netflix, which will headline MSG’s first-ever all-women’s card and feature record-breaking purses for both fighters. 

“Savannah Marshall and Chantelle Cameron are world-class athletes who represent the best of women’s boxing and the proud tradition of UK champions. Now, alongside Ellie Scotney, MVP represents the most dominant roster of UK women’s athletes in boxing,” said Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “Like Amanda Serrano and Alycia Baumgardner, Savannah and Chantelle have reached the pinnacle of the sport by becoming undisputed champions—giving them the experience, perspective, and platform to lead the next generation. We look forward to announcing their MVP debuts in the coming weeks.”

Marshall and Cameron join MVP’s elite roster of athletes and up-and-coming talents including international superstar Jake “El Gallo” Paul, boxing trailblazer and unified featherweight world champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano, undisputed super featherweight world champion Alycia “The Bomb” Baumgardner, MVP’s first homegrown champion, the new WBO Super Middleweight Champion Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green, reigning unified bantamweight world champion and Boxrec’s #1 pound-for-pound female boxer Dina Thorslund, English boxing phenom and unified 122lb super bantamweight world champion Ellie Scotney, IBF bantamweight world champion at 118lbs Shurretta Metcalf (14-4-1, 2 KOs), Spain’s WBA Interim featherweight world champion at 126lbs Jennifer Miranda (12-0, 1 KO), multi-talented megastar Javon “Wanna” Walton, India’s most successful professional boxer Neeraj Goyat, top-ranked lightweight “Prince” Lucas Bahdi, Puerto Rican sensation Krystal Rosado, three-time US national boxing champion and high-fashion model Alexis “Chop Chop” Chaparro, Puerto Rican National Team star Jan Paul Rivera, 2x Canadian Olympian and amateur world champion Tamm Thibeault, 2x US national amateur champion and rising bantamweight star Alexander “The Alley Cat” Gueche, Nigeria’s 126lb featherweight Elizabeth Oshoba, the multi-talented Somali-British boxer, activist, and high fashion model Ramla Ali, Costa Rica’s 20-year-old undefeated WBC Youth light flyweight world champion Naomy Valle, 15x US national amateur champion Nat “No Love”' Dove, and two-time Brazilian Olympian Keno Marley. 

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions, @JakePaul, @savmarshall1, and @chantellecam, or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions, @JakePaul, @Savmarshall1, and @chancam91.

About MVP

MVP was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP have produced Jake Paul’s last six global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Perry match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. MVP made history again in November 2024 with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2, the first-ever live professional sports event on Netflix. MVP’s Paul vs. Tyson streamed live globally on Netflix and shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event ever with 108 million live viewers globally. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of Paul vs. Tyson and the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

Material Courtesy of: Most Valuable Promotions Used with permission 

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

 

Belated Most Valuable Prospects 12 Results From Orlando, FL

Credit: Harry Aaron/Most Valuable Promotions 

Press Release: May 12, 2025  By Most Valuable Promotions - ORLANDO, FL – Friday, May 9, 2025 – Undefeated Cuban Olympian Dainier “The Fear” Pero (11-0, 8 KOs) retained his WBA Continental USA heavyweight title with a hard-earned unanimous decision win (96-92 x3) over Mexico’s Cesar “Chaka” Navarro (13-3, 11 KOs) in the main event of MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects 12 at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The 10-round bout aired live and free globally on DAZN.com and the DAZN app. Navarro started fast, setting the tone early with sharp uppercuts and relentless pressure. In a dramatic third round, Navarro knocked Pero down twice—first with a clean overhand right and then again with a right uppercut. Pero, showing incredible heart and composure under pressure, rose both times and managed to survive the round. From that point forward, the 25-year-old Cuban took control of the fight, using his size, conditioning, and bodywork to dictate the pace and wear Navarro down over the final seven rounds. All three judges scored the contest 96-92 in favor of Pero, who overcame adversity to remain undefeated and continue establishing himself as a legitimate contender in the heavyweight division. 

In the co-main event, Orlando’s undefeated Corey “2Smoove” Marksman (11-0-1, 8 KOs) delivered a commanding performance against fellow rising contender Tayden “The Butcher” Beltran (10-1-1, 5 KOs) of Huntington Beach, California, in a scheduled 8-round lightweight showdown packed with nonstop action. From the opening bell, Marksman controlled the pace, dazzling the crowd with his trademark flair, unloading crisp, powerful combinations that repeatedly backed Beltran into the ropes. Beltran impressively absorbed Marksman’s shots and answered back with some of his own explosive exchanges, briefly gaining momentum in the later rounds. But Marksman’s pressure proved overwhelming, culminating in a seventh-round barrage that forced the referee to step in. The bout was waved off to thunderous applause from the hometown fans, as Marksman celebrated a well-earned TKO victory and continued his ascent in the lightweight ranks. 

On the main card, 19-year-old 18x national champion Kaipo Gallegos (9-0-1, 7 KOs) faced 23-year-old Chihuahua, Mexico native Pedro Castaneda  (8-1-1, 5 KOs) in a scheduled 8-round lightweight bout. Las Vegas native Gallegos opened the bout with a showcase of patience, power, and precision, employing his right jab to pick apart Castaneda’s defense across the early rounds. Castaneda made a strong showing in the fifth round but ultimately was outmatched until he retired, and Gallegos extended his undefeated record with a win by technical knockout. 

Opening the main card, MVP’s 23-year-old standout Nat “No Love” Dove (5-0-1, 1 KO) took on El Paso, Texas native Nayeli Rodriguez (4-0-1), becoming MVP’s latest women’s athlete to make a statement for equality by fighting in a 4-round super flyweight bout with equal rules to men, three-minute rounds. Dove, a 15x national amateur champion, displayed composure in the opening rounds, setting up powerful combos, while Rodriguez continued to work through Dove’s defense with her powerful jab. The bout went the distance over four evenly matched rounds and ended in a draw (38-38x3).  

In the preliminary card headliner, Tampa, Florida’s undefeated Ariel “The Golden Hulk” Perez (7-0, 4 KOs) made his highly-anticipated series return to face Michoacan, Mexico’s 26-year-old Mario Bedolla (4-4, 3 KOs) in a 6-round light heavyweight bout. “The Golden Hulk” took control early, hammering Bedolla with punishing body shots and maintaining pressure throughout the fight. Despite Perez’s dominance, Bedolla showed toughness and refused to go down, exchanging heavy blows as the bout wore on. Perez closed strong with a commanding sixth round, earning a decisive unanimous decision victory (60-54 x3).

Also in the preliminary rounds, 24-year-old Jeremy Adorno (10-1, 6 KOs) from Kissimmee, Florida by way of San Juan, Puerto Rico dominated Buenos Aires, Argentina’s Jonathan Pachado (6-2, 2 KOs), securing two first-round knockdowns before being awarded a TKO victory at 2:58 in round one. Carolina, Puerto Rico’s 19-year-old Elise Soto (7-0, 7 KOs) battled Pittsburgh’s Colleen Davis (4-2-1, 1 KO) in a blood-soaked war. Soto appeared to establish early dominance, but the bout was declared a no contest after the second round as an accidental head butt left Davis with an open head wound. Kicking off the preliminary card, 21-year-old Quincey Williams (5-0, 5 KOs) defeated Uruguay’s Jose Perdomo (6-7, 3 KOs) by fourth-round knockout. 

The Most Valuable Prospects series is produced and marketed by MVP. Boxlab Promotions served as the official licensed promoter of Most Valuable Prospects 12. The 12th event in the series continued the commitment from MVP co-founders Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian to highlight the world’s best up-and-coming boxing talent. All events within Most Valuable Prospects will take place on Friday nights in 2025. CELSIUS Live Fit Essential Energy, maker of lifestyle energy drink, is the exclusive energy drink sponsor of MVP and the Most Valuable Prospects series. TorkLaw, Event Tickets Center, and Fansly have also joined on to sponsor the Most Valuable Prospects series.

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions and @DAZNBoxing or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions and @DAZNBoxing.

About MVP

MVP was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP have produced Jake Paul’s last six global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Perry match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. MVP made history again in November 2024 with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2, the first-ever live professional sports event on Netflix. MVP’s Paul vs. Tyson streamed live globally on Netflix and shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event ever with 108 million live viewers globally. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of Paul vs. Tyson and the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

About DAZN

DAZN is the home of European football, women’s football, boxing and MMA, and the NFL (excl. USA). We are building the ultimate sports entertainment platform, based on premium sports rights, world-leading tech, and multi-platform distribution. DAZN believes that fans from across the globe should be able to watch, read, bet, play, share, socialise, buy tickets and merchandise, all in one place, with one account, one wallet, and on one app.

For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit dazngroup.com.

Material and Trailers Courtesy of:  Most Valuable Promotions/Photo Courtesy of: Harry Aaron Most Valuable Promotions Used with permission 

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

 

Dr. Phil’s MeritTV™ Delivers Back-to-Back Nights of Live TCL Team Boxing

Press Release: May 9, 2025  By MeritTV -  DALLAS (May 9, 2025) — Dr. Phil’s MeritTV, the multiplatform TV network founded by Dr. Phil McGraw, is set to air a double-header of live matches for the TCL Team Boxing League this Friday, May 9, at 9 PM ET and Saturday, May 10 at 8 PM ET across broadcast, cable, streaming, FAST platforms, and the network’s free app, MeritTV.

The TCL Team Boxing League’s third season continues with high-energy matchups as teams composed of rising stars and veteran athletes go head-to-head in 12 different weight classes. With a team-based ownership model, every punch counts towards the team’s total performance, adding an exciting new dynamic to the world of professional boxing.

Live Matches on MeritTV:

Friday, May 9th, at Worldwide Stages, Nashville:

9 PM ET – Nashville Smash vs. Miami Assassins

Immediately following – Atlanta Attack vs. Dallas Enforcers

Saturday, May 10th at Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, South Carolina:

8 PM ET – Houston Hitmen vs. LA Elite

Immediately following – Phoenix Fury vs. Las Vegas Hustle

The following weekend features San Antonio vs. Dallas, Houston vs. Atlanta, New York City vs. Las Vegas, and Boston vs. Philadelphia. As part of a global media partnership announced earlier this year, approximately 20 weekends of TCL Boxing will air exclusively on MeritTV. The culmination of play-off rounds and final battles takes place throughout July and August.

Quickly gaining fans and respect from boxing professionals, Connecticut-based referee Johnny Callas told BoxingTalk.com, “I think TCL checks all those boxes and is an entertaining concept to a younger and varied audience. Attempting to take the individual sport of boxing and presenting it in team format is incredibly creative and entertaining.” 

“I like this Team Combat League,” added New York-based referee Arthur Mercante Jr. “It just keeps the action going in one three-minute round. Whoever started this was brilliant.”

About Dr. Phil’s MeritTV

Launched in April 2024 under the Merit Street Media banner, Dr. Phil’s MeritTV is a premier multiplatform television network spearheaded by Dr. Phil McGraw, the esteemed best-selling author and award-winning television host. MeritTV creates and distributes compelling content across diverse platforms, reaching audiences nationwide. This fully distributed cable, satellite, streaming, FAST TV (free ad-supported streaming TV channels), and free over-the-air broadcast media Network is also available via the free app MeritTV.

MeritTV boasts a rich tapestry of original and acquired programming, anchored by the nightly talk show “Dr. Phil Primetime.” Situated in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the expansive Merit studios span five acres and serve as the dynamic hub for the brand. Here, daily morning and evening live news broadcasts unfold, plus live breaking news, embodying MeritTV’s commitment to delivering engaging and informative content. Viewers can access the channel-finder link by entering ZIP codes at MeritTV.com.

 

Material Courtesy of: MeritTV Used with permission 

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

 

Cinco De Mayo Weekend Boxing Marathon 2025 Thoughts

One of the biggest events on the Boxing calendar year to year is Cinco De Mayo weekend. Traditionally, this period is reserved for a marquee event in the sport as a launching point of sorts into the second half of a calendar year. 2025, however, saw three marquee events spread over three straight days as opposed to one major event that usually occurs over the weekend. 

The 2025 edition of Cinco De Mayo weekend in Boxing kicked off on Friday, May 2nd with a tripleheader featuring three of the sport’s biggest stars in New York City, NY. Normally when a marquee event takes place in New York City, it is a given that the venue will be the legendary Madison Square Garden. This time, however, the sport broke new ground as this event was held outdoors in the middle of Times Square, known worldwide as the epicenter of the city. As a born and bred New Yorker, this observer was looking forward to this event. Not only because of the history attached to it in being the first sporting event to ever be held in Times Square, not only because the event saw the long awaited return of Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley after an eight year absence following HBO’s exit from the sport in 2018, but the fights themselves looked intriguing on paper.

With such a unique atmosphere in something that had never been attempted before in place and offering spectacular visuals, the first encounter of this tripleheader, which was seen globally on DAZN Pay-Per-View saw two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez defend his WBO Jr. Welterweight world championship against undefeated WBO number one rated contender Arnold Barboza. Despite looking as though it would be the most competitive and potentially entertaining fight of the entire card, Lopez showed his intelligence in Boxing his way to a wide twelve round unanimous decision to retain his world title in a fight that did not have much in the way of highlights.

In similar fashion, two-division world champion Devin Haney scored a forgettable twelve round unanimous decision over former unified Jr. Welterweight world champion Jose Ramirez in a Welterweight bout. This led to the main event of the first sporting event ever to be staged in Times Square as Ryan Garcia met Rolando Romero in a fight also scheduled for twelve rounds and also in the Welterweight division. 

This fight started out looking as though it would be competitive, but following the one highlight of the bout, Romero scoring a knockdown of Garcia with a counter double left hook to the head in the second round, the bout resembled the previous two bouts on the card. A formulaic type of experience void of highlights and competitive drama, as Garcia seemed unwilling to engage following getting up from the knockdown, as Romero outworked and out maneuvered him the rest of the way to an easy twelve round unanimous decision victory.

Ultimately, what looked as an intriguing set of bouts on paper, did not live up to the occasion and atmosphere of such a unique event. Whether it was a case of the atmosphere somehow getting to the fighters or not being used to competing outdoors in New York City,  the feeling coming out of this event was one that was underwhelming,  but having seen Boxing successfully staged in Times Square,  I openly wonder when the next event will be and who might participate next time around. 

The second event of the weekend brought the Boxing spotlight to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on May 3rd where Super-Middleweight world champions Saul “Canelo“ Alvarez and William Scull met to determine the Undisputed Super-Middleweight championship of the world.  An attraction, which was also shown globally on DAZN Pay-Per-View, offered Alvarez, the division's previous undisputed champion an opportunity to reclaim that status following being stripped of the IBF world championship when a conflict saw Alvarez choose to face the WBO's number one contender Edgar Berlanga than the IBF's mandatory challenger Scull, which then saw the unbeaten Scull win the vacant IBF crown. 

While Scull's victory over Vladimir Shishkin in October of last year,  made this fight with Alvarez more interesting in the sense of reunifying the division than had Alvarez faced Scull as a mandatory challenger, it is a reflection of the flaws of the politics that be in the sport in full display in that Alvarez was not allowed to defend against Berlanga and Scull in succession without losing one of the championships that made up the undisputed championship.  Whether it was a case of bad timing or perhaps a more cynical approach by the IBF to build more interest in the fight between Alvarez and Scull is something the reader can decide for themselves. 

What cannot be debated, however,  is in a scenario quite similar to what had taken place on the other side of the world in New York City the previous evening,  the unification bout between Alvarez and Scull was one that was formulaic. It was also a contest that saw one consistent pattern from start to finish. Alvarez coming forward, trying to bring the fight to Scull, landing body punches, Scull a technical boxer constantly looking to evade Alvarez with his lateral movement and landing sporadic counter punches.

While Scull, a Germany-based boxer is originally from Cuba and was raised in the sport with the Cuban amateur style, which at times has more emphasis on technique and defense rather than consistent offense,  there are times where that style, as effective and dominant as it has proven to be in amateur competition, does not always translate to consistent success in the professional ranks, nor is it the most entertaining style to watch.

In this case, though he clearly succeeded in frustrating Alvarez and did manage to win rounds by limiting Alvarez’ activity,  he was not aggressive and that choice to not let his hands go ultimately proved to be his demise as Alvarez became a two-time Undisputed Super-Middleweight world champion by convincing twelve round unanimous decision. Although not the most exciting performance,  Alvarez simply did what he needed to do and this victory will ultimately lead to a much anticipated encounter between Alvarez and current WBO Jr. Middleweight world champion and a former two-division undisputed world champion Terence Crawford in September in Las Vegas. 

While much like the previous evening,  Alvarez-Scull left an underwhelming feeling for this observer, it would be the traditional Cinco De Mayo location of Las Vegas where the 2025 edition would come to a close with another undisputed world championship bout.  This observer is referring to the Undisputed Jr. Featherweight world championship bout between undefeated champion Naoya Inoue and WBA number one contender Ramon Cardenas, which took place on May 4th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

On the surface, this fight, which was broadcast by digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+ here in the United States, represented little more than the Japanese superstar Inoue's return to the United States for the first time in nearly five years when the then unified Bantamweight world champion scored a seventh round knockout of Jason Moloney behind closed doors in the convention center of the MGM Grand during the global COVID-19 epidemic where fans were not permitted to attend. 

As the years have gone on Inoue has evolved into one of the biggest stars in the sport albeit away from the United States where his fights thanks to ESPN+ have been made accessible here stateside, but have taken place in the early morning hours as he has opted to compete in his native Japan, where he not only routinely draws massive crowds, but can also get top dollar whenever he competes. While this fight represented a return to America, few gave it more thought than an appearance by one of the biggest stars in the sport, who has consistently been at or near the top of Boxing's mythical pound for pound debates as he has continued going through divisions and becoming a multi-division undisputed world champion in the process. 

Despite entering the fight with a 26-1, with 14 Knockouts record and being ranked number one by the World Boxing Association, not much was known about Roman Cardenas and even though he had been unbeaten since 2017 as well as never being stopped his career, few regarded him as a legitimate threat to Inoue. This perception would prove to be an example of why an opponent should never be underestimated.  

In the second round, Cardenas made himself known by suddenly dropping the champion with a flush counter left hook to the jaw that sent Inoue down to the canvas for only the second time in his career. A scenario that looked eerily similar to the one Inoue found himself in against Luis Nery in May of last year where also in the second round,  he was dropped by a counter left hook after he had thrown a punch and dropped his arm leaving an opening for the left,  this time the fighter known as “The Monster” appeared legitimately stunned. 

To his credit, Cardenas proceeded with caution and did not recklessly approach Inoue, a fighter who had twenty-six knockouts in twenty-nine professional fights coming into this title defense, but nevertheless stood his ground by continuing to apply pressure, continuing to land hard shots when given the opportunity and appearing to hurt the champion whenever he landed punches to the body. Although after four rounds the momentum appeared to clearly be in favor of the challenger, Inoue would show once again why he is regarded as not only one of the best fighters in the entire sport, but a future Hall of Famer. 

In showing the ability to adapt under fire from his opposition, Inoue gradually worked his way back into the fight and by round six had started to turn the ebb and flow his way as his own power punches began to affect Cardenas. The accumulation of blows from Inoue eventually broke the challenger down in scoring a knockdown of Cardenas late in the round. While this knockdown was from the accumulation of punches Inoue was dishing out, the pace of the fight also seemed to show on the challenger, who despite getting up from the knockdown and surviving the round, looked utterly exhausted. 

Sensing that the tide had turned and his opponent was compromised, Inoue forced the issue in round eight pressing forward and unleashing a barrage of unanswered punches with Cardenas pressed up against the ropes to force the fight to be stopped. While the result was what many had expected in Inoue getting a victory to retain his undisputed crown in the 122lb. Jr. Featherweight division,  few expected this to be the thrilling back and forth battle that it turned out to be.  It turned out to not only be a great fight,  but from an entertainment standpoint,  it also turned out that the fight that was treated with little regard amongst all the marquee bouts that were staged over Cinco De Mayo weekend, ended up being both the most competitive and entertaining of them all and arguably turned what had been an underwhelming stretch of events to a memorable night that will be remembered along with many other great fights that have taken place during Cinco De Mayo throughout Boxing history. 

While the 2025 edition of Cinco De Mayo weekend in Boxing was a mixed variety,  overall it should be viewed as successful for all the promoters who took part in it and the two networks who broadcast all the events. With the possibility of more Boxing being staged in Times Square as well as continuing to be staged in Boxing hotbeds of Saudi Arabia and Las Vegas,  this observer openly wonders what's next?  It would not be a bad idea if a rematch between Naoya Inoue and Ramon Cardenas were part of those future plans.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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Billy Quinncroft Fired Up For His First State Title Shot

Credit: Mike O'Hara Dragon Fire Boxing 

Press Release: May 5, 2025  By Dragon Fire Boxing - 

On the 30th of May, Dragonfire Promotions hits the Metro City Night Club for the second time this year for Thunderdome 50.

 

The main event features the return of Francis “The Removalist” Chua who takes on China’s 4th ranked lightweight Xiaotao Su for the WBC Australasia Silver Lightweight title in his first fight in three years.

 

Before the headliner however, Billy Quinncroft has his first attempt at a state title when he takes on the hard-hitting WA fighter Bilal Seidu.

 

When speaking to the 33-year-old, Quinncroft revealed that he had switched his fight camp to Big Rigs Gym in Malaga as he was taking the sport more seriously.

 

“I've levelled up my training massively” Quinncroft told, “I've just recently changed gyms to Big Rigs gym, I'm going in strong and fit. 

 

“I'm excited and I'm ready to go.” 

 

In his last outing, the Englishman kept his unbeaten record intact when he scored a first-round stoppage victory over Alex Muster back in March this year.

 

Despite claiming the first stoppage win of his career, Quinncroft stated he was slightly disappointed in how the fight turned out.

 

“To be honest, [for the fight] to be done in the first round was a bit disappointing.” Quinncroft revealed.

 

“I know that sounds crazy probably to say, but in the first round you're not even getting going, you're just sort of settling into the fight. 

 

“It was great to have on the record, but I guess it felt a little bit unrewarding that it got done that quick and I didn't get time to fully settle into the fight and have a good clash.”

 

Looking back at Quinncroft’s journey in the sport, it is remarkable to learn that the 33-year-old only made his debut back in November of last year.

 

Fast Forward six months later, Quinncroft is fighting for the State Cruiserweight Championship. 

 

When asked about his overall progression, Quinncroft said that he feels that he is getting better every week.

 

“I'm probably getting better every week, to be honest” Quinncroft said.

 

“I haven't been boxing for too long. I've always played football but as I was getting a bit older, I thought I would try something different and sort of just fell into boxing. 

 

“I have done it on and off over the years to just keep fit so it's crazy when you look at it. I think I jumped in headfirst in November having my first pro fight to now battling for a state title.

 

“So I guess you just take opportunities when they land, I think that's what I've done with this. I'm not one to turn down an opportunity. I'm going to take this with both hands and bring it home.”

 

Standing in his way of a state title is Bilal Seidu. Dubbed “The Black Hulk”, Seidu is known in the WA boxing scene as a power puncher and he also rides an undefeated record with two wins and one draw.

 

Having spared with him in the past, Quinncroft knows that he is expecting his biggest test yet on May 30th.

 

“You can just look at him and see he's a big lump of muscle” Quinncroft joked, “but he was a good lad. 

 

“I've done some rounds with him in the past and he's a tough guy, he's a big, strong boy. I've just got to do what I know I can do and I feel like I will be fine.

 

“I definitely need to be wary and I just can't let myself lapse on the night which I won't, he's a big powerful puncher I know that for sure.”

 

With fast developing skills and motivation for the sport, Billy Quinncroft looks more than ready to claim his first state championship.

 

Material Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing/ Photo Courtesy of Mike O'Hara Dragon Fire Boxing Used with permission 

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

 

BEATRIZ FERREIRA VS. MARIA INES FERREYRA FOR IBF LIGHTWEIGHT WORLD TITLE ON SATURDAY, JUNE 7 ON DAZN

Credit: Most Valuable Promotions 

Press Release: May 1, 2025  By Most Valuable Promotions - ORLANDO, FL – April 30, 2025 – Most Valuable Promotions today announced Most Valuable Prospects 13, an MVP Championship Edition on Saturday, June 7 at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, live globally on DAZN. Most Valuable Prospects 13, an MVP Event, will be a headlined by a 10-round women’s world championship fight at 135lbs as Brazil’s IBF lightweight world champion Beatriz “The Beast” Ferreira (6-0, 2 KOs) defends her title for the second time against 28-year-old Buenos Aires, Argentina challenger Maria Ines “Dinamita” Ferreyra (11-0-1, 6 KOs). In the co-main event, MVP’s newest signee, 2x Brazilian Olympian Keno Marley will make his highly-anticipated professional debut over 4 rounds at 200lbs in the cruiserweight division against Weslaco, Texas’s undefeated cruiserweight Sean Sparks (2-0, 2 KOs). Also on the main card will be an 8-round 135lb lightweight fight between Brazilian national champion Luan Almeida (5-0, 4 KOs) vs. Crescent City, Florida’s Tony Aguilar (13-1-1, 4 KOs). Tickets for Most Valuable Prospects 13 are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com. 

Matchroom’s Beatriz “The Beast” Ferreira made her professional debut in Cleveland, Ohio in 2022. Prior to turning pro, Ferreira’s glittering amateur career saw her win lightweight gold at the 2019 AIBA Women’s World Boxing Championships in Russia and silver in the lightweight category at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, before returning to compete for Team Brazil at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, where she earned the bronze medal. The 31-year-old Ferreira is an aggressive, come-forward fighter who put on a thoroughly impressive display against an unbeaten Taynna Cardoso in her pro debut in 2022, twice dropping her fellow Brazilian en route to a four-round shutout decision victory, which she competed over three-minute rounds. Less than a month later, Ferreira returned for her second pro bout, stopping the 7-2 Carisse Brown inside two rounds on the undercard of Estrada-Chocolatito 3 in December 2022. Ferreira made her third outing as a professional in July 2023 on the undercard of Dalton Smith vs. Sam Maxwell in Sheffield, England, taking another big step up early in her career and delivering an electric decision win over Karla Ramos Zamora. Ferreira followed the win with an eighth round stoppage of Destiny Jones on the undercard of Devin Haney vs. Regis Prograis in December 2023. In just her fifth fight, Ferreira earned her first shot at world title honors against Yanina Lescano in April 2024 in Liverpool, England. Ferreira dished out a severe, relentless beating, winning by technical decision and claiming the vacant IBF lightweight world title at 135lbs. Following the bout, Ferreira turned her attention back to her Olympic aspirations, medaling in Paris before returning to the pro ranks in December 2024 to defend her IBF title and winning a dominant 10-round unanimous decision over France's Licia Boudersa in Monte-Carlo. She now will defend her title for the second time against Argentinian challenger Maria Ines Ferreyra. 

"I want to thank Matchroom and Most Valuable Promotions for this opportunity and I am very excited to return to the United States to defend my world title,” said Biatriz Ferreira. “I am expecting a very tough challenge from my opponent, I know she is no joke and is coming to take my title but these are the type of challenges I want. It's exciting times for women’s boxing and I want to be part of these big nights. I am ready for all the big names that people are talking about and I will prove this on Saturday, June 7th."

María Inés “Dinamita” Ferreyra (11-0-1, 6 KOs) is a 28-year-old undefeated Argentine professional boxer from Tres Algarrobos, Buenos Aires, currently living in Villa María, Córdoba. She made her professional debut in March 2021. Following a strong start to her pro career, Ferreyra earned her first regional title shot in September 2024, contesting for the then-vacant South American lightweight title against Johen Paola Gonzalez and earning a first-round TKO win over Gonzalez to claim the title honors. She followed the showing with a title defense in her latest bout in December 2024, winning by unanimous decision against Lizbeth Crespo. Now entering her first world title fight, she will challenge Ferreira for the IBF lightweight world title in a 10-round women’s championship bout on Saturday, June 7.

MVP’s Keno Marley is a 24-year-old 6’3” boxer born in Sapeaçu, Bahia, Brazil. He first began boxing at age 11 before moving to São Paulo alone to pursue his boxing training at age 13, joining the Brazilian national team to launch a standout amateur career. He first made a name for himself at the 2018 Summer Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires, taking home the gold medal and becoming the first Brazilian boxer to achieve this feat. The next year, Marley earned silver at the 2019 Pan American championships. He earned a place on Brazil’s Olympic team, qualifying to compete in the men's light heavyweight event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and finishing as a quarter-finalist in a narrow 3-2 defeat to Britain’s Benjamin Whittaker, the eventual silver medalist. At the 2021 amateur world championships, Marley fought in the IBA cruiserweight division and earned the silver medal, before becoming the 2022 Brazilian national amateur champion. In 2023, Marley won the prestigious Strandja Tournament, the biggest championship on the European circuit, becoming the first Brazilian man to reach the final and win the title before winning silver at the 2023 Pan American Games. He continued his amateur sprint as he returned to represent Brazil again at the Paris 2024 Olympics in the men’s heavyweight division, defeating Team Great Britain powerhouse Pat Brown to reach the quarter finals. Outside boxing, Marley faced two difficult losses in 2021, losing his older brother to murder and his cousin to suicide. He now actively serves as a third sergeant in the Brazilian Army, holds a university degree in physical education, and is currently completing a law degree. He trains out of the Brazilian Olympic Training Center and is co-managed by Brazil’s biggest influencer, multi-talented superstar Whindersson Nunes, who faced MVP’s Neeraj Goyat on the main card of MVP’s record-shattering Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson in November 2024. Marley currently resides in São Paulo, Brazil. On Saturday, June 7, Marley will make his professional debut over 4 rounds at 200lbs in the cruiserweight division against Sean Sparks (2-0, 2 KOs). The 33-year-old Sparks comes to the ring from Weslaco, Texas by way of Palm Desert, California, boasting a perfect record so far in his pro career. Sparks, an orthodox fighter standing at 6’2”, most recently earned a third-round KO over Enrique Rodriguez in March 2025, following his outstanding first round KO of Edmilson Freitas in his pro debut in October 2024. He is managed by Felix Piedra.

“I’ve been boxing for 11 years now. To finally get to the point where I’m about to make my pro debut after all I’ve done so far feels surreal,” said Keno Marley. “I’m really excited and thankful that MVP is the stage where I’m starting my boxing career. I’m doing exactly what I wanted, when I wanted, and where I wanted, so I can’t be anything but thankful about my life right now! Saturday, June 7 can’t get here soon enough.”

Luan Medeiros (5-0, 4 KOs) is an undefeated professional lightweight boxer and the current CNB Super Lightweight Brazilian National Champion. As an amateur, he built an extensive career with close to 150 fights, boasting over 114 wins and becoming a Brazilian National Champion, Copa del Pacífico winner in Ecuador, and a Cheo Aponte Tournament runner-up in Puerto Rico. Domestically, he won multiple regional titles, including 4x Rio de Janeiro state champion, 3x São Paulo state champion, Paraná state champion, Sul-Sudeste champion, and Centro-Oeste champion. He also represented Brazil internationally, winning team challenges against Italy and Argentina. Outside the ring, the 30-year-old Luan is known for his relationship with Brazilian A-list actress Mel Maia, who has over 21 million followers. Facing him will be one of boxing’s most exciting up-and-coming lightweight prospects, Tony Aguilar (13-1-1, 4 KOs). The 26-year-old Aguilar, a Crescent City, FL native, returns to the ring following four thrilling fights across MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects series and Jake Paul vs. Mike Perry in July 2024 and his latest UD win over Marcello Williams in December 2024. He proudly represents his Mexican heritage in the ring and is a relentlessly hard-working fighter who will look to keep the action high over 8 rounds against Medeiros.

“On Saturday, June 7, our newest signee and two-time Brazilian Olympian Keno Marley will be making his pro debut as part of a card that uniquely celebrates the tremendous talent and achievements of Brazilian boxing,” said Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “This event also marks the return of MVP’s Championship Edition, which first featured Amanda Serrano’s historic 12x3:00 unified women’s world championship bout against Danila Ramos in October 2023. We are proud to now spotlight two more world-class women’s fighters as Brazil’s Olympic silver medalist Beatriz Ferreira defends her IBF world title against a difficult challenger in Maria Ines Ferreyra. Most Valuable Prospects 13 continues to showcase some of the most exciting women’s fighters and rising prospects in the sport—both core tenets of our MVP mission–in partnership with DAZN and Boxlab Promotions.”

“On behalf of the entire team at Caribe Royale and Boxlab Promotions we’re proud to be partnering with MVP on what should be a great night of action,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions and Managing Director of the Caribe Royale Resort. “Central Florida’s Brazilian community will be out supporting their champion and their Olympian! This is part of Caribe Royale’s commitment of bringing world class events to Orlando. Sports fans in Central Florida should be excited about the headliners and the soon to be announced undercard!”

The Most Valuable Prospects series is produced and marketed by MVP, promoted by MVP and Boxlab Promotions, and distributed globally by DAZN. The 13th event in the series, hosted by the Caribe Royale Resort, will continue the commitment from MVP co-founders Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian to highlight the world’s best up-and-coming boxing talent. CELSIUS Live Fit Essential Energy, maker of lifestyle energy drink, is the exclusive energy drink sponsor of MVP and the Most Valuable Prospects series. Fansly and Event Ticket Center have also joined on to sponsor the Most Valuable Prospects series.

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions and @DAZNBoxing or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions and @DAZNBoxing.

About MVP

MVP was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize returns for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP has produced Jake Paul’s last six global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Perry match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. MVP made history again in November 2024 with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2, the first-ever live professional sports event on Netflix. MVP’s Paul vs. Tyson streamed live globally on Netflix and shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event ever with 108 million live viewers globally. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of Paul vs. Tyson and the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

About DAZN

DAZN is the home of European football, women’s football, boxing and MMA, and the NFL (excl. USA). We are building the ultimate sports entertainment platform, based on premium sports rights, world-leading tech, and multi-platform distribution. DAZN believes that fans from across the globe should be able to watch, read, bet, play, share, socialise, buy tickets and merchandise, all in one place, with one account, one wallet and on one app.

For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit dazngroup.com.

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Most Valuable Promotions Used with permission 

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