Alvarez-Berlanga Set For September 14th In Las Vegas

Credit: Prime Video 

Press Release: July 26, 2024 By Prime Video- 

LAS VEGAS – July 25, 2024 – Pound-for-pound great and Mexican superstar Canelo Álvarez will put his unified WBC, WBA and WBO Super Middleweight World Titles on the line against undefeated WBA No. 1-Ranked Mandatory Contender Edgar Berlanga as Canelo Promotions presents a Mexican Independence Day weekend extravaganza headlining a PBC Pay-Per-View event available on Prime Video taking place Saturday, Sept. 14 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

 

This showdown will deliver the latest chapter in the long boxing rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico with the fighting pride of Mexico in Canelo Álvarez dueling Puerto Rico’s Edgar Berlanga. Canelo is no stranger to this heated rivalry, highlighted by numerous historic matchups including Salvad

or Sánchez vs. Wilfredo Gómez and Julio César Chávez Sr. vs. Héctor Camacho, as he defeated Puerto Rican Hall of Famer Miguel Cotto in one of the biggest Mexico vs. Puerto Rico fights in recent memory.

 

In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to purchase the PPV via DAZN.com. Additionally, fans can purchase the PPV at PPV.com. On top of those options, fans will continue to be able to access the telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

 

The star-studded co-main event will feature Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara taking on hard-hitting two-division world champion and Puerto Rican star Danny “Swift” García in a 12-round showdown between two of this era’s most accomplished fighters.

 

Pre-sale tickets are available Monday, July 29 from 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com by using the code: PBC. The public on-sale is scheduled for Tuesday, July 30 at 10 a.m. PT with tickets available through AXS.com.

 

The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, in association with Matchroom Boxing.

 

“Every day we are preparing,” said Eddy Reynoso, Canelo’s manager and trainer. “We know that Berlanga is a good fighter, a strong, undefeated fighter. The confrontations within boxing between Mexico and Puerto Rico are always intense fights, very morbid fights and, above all, very good boxing. Puerto Rico has produced many world champions and hall of fame fighters. Mexico has done the same. It is going to be a very attractive fight against a great fighter in Berlanga who’s undefeated and faced some of the best fighters competing at 168 pounds over the last few years.”

 

“I’m excited for my guy, Edgar Berlanga, to get a shot at the king of boxing Canelo Álvarez,” said Keith Connolly, Berlanga’s manager. “I want to thank all the players involved in helping me get this deal over the line. Canelo vs. Berlanga is renewing the Mexico vs Puerto Rico rivalry, which is the best in boxing history. Sept. 14 is a can’t miss event for fans around the world.”

 

“Mexican Independence Day weekend is synonymous with big Canelo Álvarez fights, and Saturday, Sept. 14 will be the next chapter of that historic story,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Canelo has long reigned as the 168-pound king and will put his three unified world titles up against a young, power-punching contender in Edgar Berlanga as he looks to once again score a victory for his home country in the storied rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico. With the addition of the Erislandy Lara vs. Danny García world championship battle in the co-main event, plus more matchups to come, everything lines up for an event worthy of the holiday weekend live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in another stacked PBC Pay-Per-View on Prime Video.”

 

“Edgar Berlanga’s nickname is the Chosen One and I’m so happy he got the golden pick for Sept. 14,” said Eddie Hearn, Chairman of Matchroom Boxing. “This is the fight we dreamed about when we signed Edgar last year and he is ready to give everything for himself, his family and for Puerto Rico. You have a young, unbeaten, fearless puncher ready to tackle one of the all-time greats - get ready for drama in Las Vegas!”

 

*CANELO ÁLVAREZ VS. EDGAR BERLANGA*

 

The reigning WBC, WBA and WBO Super Middleweight World Champion, Canelo Álvarez will look to continue his run at the top of the super middleweight division, this time against the undefeated Edgar Berlanga, who earned the WBA’s No. 1 ranking at 168-pounds and who will look to make a monumental splash while representing his Puerto Rican heritage in the biggest fight of his career to date.

 

Having captured world titles at 154, 160, 168 and 175 pounds, Canelo (61-2-2, 39 KOs) steps back into the ring after dropping countryman Jaime Munguía in May on his way to a unanimous decision win. The fighting pride of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Canelo became undisputed at super middleweight in November 2021 by taking the IBF belt from then unbeaten Caleb Plant via an 11th-round TKO, eventually going on to successfully defend all four titles four times. After dropping a light heavyweight title fight against Dmitriy Bivol in May 2022, Canelo rebounded to defeat Gennadiy Golovkin in their Sept. 2022 trilogy fight before besting John Ryder and Jermell Charlo in 2023. Under the guidance of his renowned manager and trainer Eddy Reynoso, Canelo has triumphed over a long list of elite fighters since turning pro at just 15-years-old in 2005, including Golovkin, Charlo, Shane Mosley, Erislandy Lara, Miguel Cotto and Sergey Kovalev, to name a few. Outside of the Bivol fight, Canelo’s only other defeat came against undefeated legend Floyd Mayweather in Sept. 2013.

 

"I am very happy for this fight between Mexico and Puerto Rico,” said Álvarez. “It’s exciting to be part of another great Mexico vs. Puerto Rico battle inside the ring because historically we have always offered unforgettable fights full of passion. I am proud to contribute to this legacy and facing an opponent like Edgar Berlanga adds even more excitement and meaning to this event."

 

A native of Brooklyn, NY who proudly represents his Puerto Rican roots, Berlanga (22-0, 17 KOs) first grabbed the attention of the boxing world by knocking out his first 16 opponents in round one after turning pro in 2016. The 27-year-old continued to rack up victories after his first-round KO streak ended, defeating a slew of tough veterans including Demond Nicholson, Marcelo Cóceres, Steve Rolls and Alexis Angulo. Berlanga has continued to show impressive power to match his improving skills in his last two fights as he dropped Jason Quigley four times on his way to a 12-round unanimous decision in June 2023, before most recently stopping the previously undefeated Padraig McCrory in round six this past February. Berlanga turned pro after sporting a stellar 162-17 amateur record and is trained by his longtime trainer Marc Farrait.

 

“First and foremost, I want to thank the good Lord for putting me in this position,” said Berlanga. “This is the opportunity of a lifetime. I deserve to be here, and I'm going to shock the world and silence the critics by delivering a masterful performance and knocking out Canelo Álvarez on Sept. 14. I will prove that my Puerto Rican heritage surpasses Mexican boxing, from Gómez to Trinidad to Cotto, and now to Berlanga. I will reclaim what is rightfully ours. I'm ready to make this a historic firefight, continuing the greatest rivalry in boxing: Puerto Rico vs Mexico. Vamos arriba, puñeta!”

 

*ERISLANDY LARA VS. DANNY GARCÍA*

 

Pitting two fighters with more world championship experience than almost anyone else in this era of boxing, with a combined 24 appearances in world title fights, the co-main event will feature Cuban star Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara facing two-division world champion and Puerto Rican star Danny “Swift” García in a high-stakes matchup for Lara’s WBA Middleweight World Championship.

 

Lara (30-3-3, 18 KOs) has been dominant in his run at 160-pounds, showing off his ability to go toe-to-toe and end a fight with one punch, after establishing himself as one of boxing’s best technical fighters throughout the first part of his career. He captured his WBA title with a first-round knockout of Thomas LaManna in May 2021, before KO’ing Gary O’Sullivan in May 2022 and most recently sparking out Michael Zerafa in round two in March. Prior to his middleweight exploits, Lara was the longest reigning 154-pound world champion before he lost a tough split-decision to Jarrett Hurd in a 2018 title unification match that earned “Fight of the Year” from the BWAA. Lara returned from that fight and battled former 154-pound world titleholder Brian Castaño to an exciting draw in another narrow fight that could have gone Lara’s way. He faced a slew of the top 154-pounders in the sport, including Canelo Álvarez, ahead of his middleweight debut.

 

"My fight with Danny García will be a classic battle between two legendary fighters of our era,” said Lara. “We’ve both faced the best, have impressive resumes and have competed at the top level for a long time. I’m excited for this fight. I encourage all my Mexican fans to tune in on Mexican Independence Day, bring your flags and support this great event. I will represent not only Cuba, but also Mexico on this day against Puerto Rico. To everyone watching at T-Mobile Arena and on the pay-per-view on Prime Video, you will witness greatness in the ring throughout the action-packed night of boxing. I look forward to putting on a show and being the first to knock out Danny García. This will be an epic showdown!"

 

A world champion at 140 and 147 pounds, García (37-3, 21 KOs) owns one of the sport’s most impressive resumes as he now seeks to add a middleweight world title to his list of accomplishments. In his last fight, he put on a stellar performance at 154 pounds, keeping José Benavídez Jr. at bay on his way to a 12-round decision victory. The Philadelphia native has proudly represented his Puerto Rican heritage throughout a career that includes a run through the super lightweight division that saw him defeat a string of champions including Erik Morales, Amir Khan, Zab Judah, Lucas Matthysse, Nate Campbell and Kendall Holt. As a welterweight, he added triumphs over Lamont Peterson, Paulie Malignaggi, and Robert Guerrero, defeating Guerrero for a vacant title in 2016. García’s campaign at welterweight included narrow defeats to some of the sport’s most talented and rugged fighters in Keith Thurman, Shawn Porter, and then unbeaten unified champion Errol Spence Jr.

 

“This is a legacy fight and an opportunity to win a championship in my third weight class,” said García. “Lara is a great champion who’s been around for a while, but so have I. On Sept. 14, I’m bringing the Danny García show to Las Vegas and making it a historic night.”

 

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For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CaneloBerlanga, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Prime Video Used with permission.

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Joyce-Chisora: A Crossroads Heavyweight Battle

There is an old saying that this observer firmly believes in. “A Fighter Is Always One Punch Away From Revitalizing Their Career." While that can be applied to the entire sport, it is especially true with regard to the Heavyweight division. After all, if one were to go through the history of the division, no matter the era, you would find along with the various world champions that dominated a certain period, several fighters who had opportunities to fight for world titles and came up short, or others who spent their careers on the fringe or contender level that continued competing for years in search of an opportunity that for some never came.

The one thing that you will find as you research is there are some fighters whom either because of age, or issues having to do with ability to continue competing at or near the top of the sport, are written off at some point by various pundits and Boxing scribes. While such statements do not always prove to be accurate, where the fighter ends up getting the last laugh on his or her skeptics that say they should retire, it is very much a case by case scenario.

In present times, two Heavyweights that one might argue fit that description are former European Heavyweight champions and contenders Joe Joyce and former  multi-time world title challenger Derek. Two men who will meet in a crossroads Heavyweight bout on Saturday, July 27th at the O2 Arena in London, England in a fight that can be seen in the United States on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+. The question going into this fight could be what does either fighter have left in them?

In this case, we are discussing a scenario of one fighter, who just a few years ago, was viewed by many as potentially the next dominant Heavyweight going against a true veteran, who has worked his way back into contention on more than one occasion after suffering setbacks over the course of a seventeen year career. What makes this a crossroads battle is while Joyce was the fighter that was viewed as a potential dominant World Heavyweight champion in the making, both he and Chisora are each trying to rebuild following setbacks.

For Joyce, “Knockout Artist" with a near 94% career knockout percentage, his setback came in the form of suffering back to back knockout losses at the hands of top contender Zhilei Zhang last year. While those losses represent the only defeats in Joyce's eighteen fight professional career, the knockouts he suffered at the hands of Zhang were brutal and sometimes it is not the number of fights one has, but rather what happens in those fights that can take a lot out of a fighter. Joyce was able to take the initial step forward in trying to bounce back in March of this year when he scored a tenth round knockout of Kash Ali.

As for Derek Chisora, a career that began in 2007 and has seen numerous ups and downs including challenging former longtime Heavyweight world champion Vitali Klitschko in February 2012 for the WBC World Heavyweight crown, appeared to reach its end when Chisora after forty-five professional fights in his career got one last attempt at the WBC crown and was stopped in his third fight with then WBC champion Tyson Fury in December 2022. Chisora, however, returned to the ring in August of last year and scored a ten round unanimous decision over fellow longtime contender Gerald Washington.

If one were to look at bare statistics to compare between Joyce and Chisora, one could give an edge to the younger and theoretically fresher fighter based largely on the fact that Joyce has scored knockouts in fifteen of his sixteen career wins. The thing that will make this interesting, however, is the experience of Chisora in that he has foug\ht several fighters that were known as power punchers and, though he has suffered some knockout losses, he has shown that he can compete effectively when he is at a theoretical disadvantage. The question for him will not only be what he has left, but also, was he able to learn anything about how Zhang approached his encounters with Joyce that he might be able to use in this fight.

Derek Chisora is a fighter that applies pressure from the opening bell and tries to get on the inside of his opponents and look to gradually break them down. While Chisora is a different style of fighter than Zhilei Zhang, he is consistent and does have punching power of his own having scored twenty-three knockouts in his thirty-four wins. Whether Chisora at 6’1 ½ can get on the inside of the 6’6 Joyce remains to be seen. 

At least on paper, Joyce seems to have the advantage standing 6’6 and an eighty inch reach compared to Chisora’s seventy-four inch reach. The question for him will be whether those knockouts at the hands of Zhang have taken something out of him and how he will be able to withstand Chisora’s pressure. Although some might see this encounter as a win or go home scenario, the reality is one can never count any fighter out in the Heavyweight division and the question here might be who will take a step forward and who will wait for another opportunity down the line.

“And That's The Boxing Truth." 

Joyce vs. Chisora takes place on Saturday, July 27th at the O2 Arena in London, England. The fight can be seen in the United States on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+ beginning at 3:30PM ET/12:30PM PT.

For more information about ESPN+ including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices, platforms, Smart TVs, and to subscribe please visit: www.ESPNPlus.com.

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

(*Check your local listings Internationally.*)

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Paul-Perry Thoughts

The Cruiserweight fight between social media influencer turned aspiring boxer Jake Paul and MMA star and Bareknuckle boxer Mike Perry on July 20th at Amalie Arena in Tampa, FL was one born out of unforeseen circumstances. For several months after all, the talk of many both in and out of Boxing for good and bad has been Paul’s signed bout with long-retired International Boxing Hall of Famer and former two-time World Heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, which was to have taken place on July 20th in Arlington, TX. When the fifty-eight year old suffered a medical emergency recently forcing a postponement of that bout to November 15th, Paul opted to maintain the original date, and thus, this bout with Perry as well as a change in location took place on a little more than four weeks notice.

Despite the limited time both men had to prepare and promote this bout, more than 15,000 spectators filed into Amalie Arena to see it. Regardless of what one might think of Jake Paul and his credibility as a legitimate boxer as he has had no shortage of critics, including this observer, it is a testament to his ability as a promoter to draw such a crowd on limited notice, even though there were reports of issues with regard to filling the arena and availability of tickets were still available as of the weigh-in on July 19th.

Having said that, if one were being honest, there were not much in the way of expectations for this fight, despite the risk Paul was taking by keeping his originally scheduled date, with the bout with Tyson, at least on paper, still in the pipeline. The reason why there were not many expectations going into this fight was because this was another instance where Paul was facing a fighter primarily known for his participation in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and one with limited Boxing experience. A wrinkle to that, however, was Perry, while having only one fight under his belt fought under traditional Boxing rules, has spent the last several years establishing himself fighting in Bareknuckle Boxing, where he is unbeaten.

In previewing this bout, although I noted Perry’s toughness and ability to take a punch in fights fought under the Bareknuckle Boxing format, he was susceptible to being hit with the right hand, which coincidentally is Paul’s primary weapon. It did not take long for this to become evident as Paul quickly found a home for his right hand and dropped Perry early in the first round with an overhand right. While Perry’s mettle would be something that would be one of the stories of this fight as he would take significant punishment throughout, his inability to move his head as well as keep his hands up to defend against what Paul threw at him, made this fight a mismatch. There were occasions throughout the fight where Perry would connect with a solid punch on Paul, but the pattern of the fight remained the same, Paul landing the cleaner, harder shots on a fighter with significant defensive liabilities. Two additional knockdowns would be scored by Paul in rounds two and six, both as a result of right hands, with the final knockdown resulting in the fight being stopped as Perry got up on very wobbly legs and was deemed unable to continue by Referee Christopher Young.

If one were to ask this observer for his opinion, I would offer one slight criticism. A criticism not of Paul, but of Referee Christopher Young, a recent inductee in the 2024 class of the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame, who is one of the best referees in the state of Florida, where yours truly also resides. Despite Young’s reputation as one of the best referees Florida has to offer, I felt the fight probably should have been stopped around the fourth round. Although no one can take anything away from the grit and determination Mike Perry showed in this fight, when it becomes evident that one fighter is at a competitive disadvantage and is taking the type of beating that could have long-term repercussions, the fight should be stopped. While the decision on when to stop a fight is not an exact science and should be treated on a case by case basis, and giving credit where it is due in that Young did stop the fight in the sixth round when Perry got up and could not keep his legs under him, I simply feel that in this case, with the contest having been clearly one-sided long before the sixth round, Young gave Perry too much of the benefit of doubt in allowing the fight to go on a bit longer than it should have.

If one were also to be honest, they would say that this fight did not prove much as far as Paul’s claim of wanting to be a world champion. This was a scenario where to his credit, he was able to showcase evolving skills as well as patience, but the criticisms of Paul remain, simply because he is not fighting against boxers exclusively and is not taking the necessary steps by facing fighters that will not only continue to help in his development as a fighter, but more specifically, boxers that will allow him to work his way into position to become a contender to potentially challenge for a world championship. To take it a step further, if the signed encounter with Mike Tyson does indeed happen in November, yes, it will be an event that will draw attention particularly amongst the casual sports fan, which is one reason why Netflix was likely interested in such an event and subsequently secured exclusive rights to the event. In all truth and honesty, however, getting in the ring against a fifty-eight year old, long-retired boxer will not prove much, even if that boxer is named Mike Tyson. 

While Paul does deserve credit where it is due for not only the commitment he has shown to the sport, his continued development, and his prowess  as a promoter, at some point, he and his team will have to come to the realization that even though he entered the sport in an unconventional way as being a social media influencer, the standards of the sport have to be respected, and that means if one is truly serious about wanting to be taken seriously as a boxer and wants to compete for a world championship, they need to follow a similar path as virtually all boxers who work their way up and that means fighting boxers exclusively, regardless of whether they have name recognition or not and fighting against boxers that will allow said fighter to work their way into contention to be able to get into that position. Crossover events like the Paul-Tyson encounter or the numerous fighters Paul has fought that come either from the influencer world or from the sport of MMA do indeed draw attention, there is no denying that, but it does not prove much as far as one’s hope of being taken seriously as a fighter, who wants to become a world champion.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth,”

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Shields Attempts To Make Further History

On July 27th, the focus of the world will center on the beginning of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France. It will be on day 1 of the Olympic Boxing competition that the focus will largely be dominated by Women's bouts as a field of over 120 women in various weight divisions attempt to win Olympic Gold. The strides of Women's Boxing in the Olympics and the sport overall for Women that has taken place over the last decade is something that has been long overdue and cannot be denied.

It was at the 2012 Olympics in London, England where one fighter became the focal point that in large part has helped to lead the way for such growth. This observer is referring to Claressa Shields, who not only became the first Women's Olympic Gold Medalist in United States Boxing history, but four years later would duplicate that accomplishment at the 2016 games in Brazil, not only duplicating what she had done four years earlier, but making history as the only boxer in United States Olympic history to win back to back Gold medals in Olympic competition. If Shields had decided after back to back Olympic triumphs to retire, she likely would have already cemented her place in any Boxing Hall of Fame due to the magnitude of what she had accomplished.

As most know, however, Shields’ Olympic journey was a chapter of her story rather than the end of it. Since turning professional late in 2016, Shields has been dominant becoming a world champion in three different weight classes from Jr. Middleweight, Middleweight, and Super-Middleweight, becoming an undisputed champion in the Middleweight and Super-Middleweight divisions. While her standing in Women's Boxing has remained untouched, Shields has also established herself in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) winning two of three professional bouts with the lone defeat coming via decision in October 2021 to Abigail Montes. The only loss Shields has suffered in twelve years across combat sports, with the last loss she suffered in a Boxing ring coming as an amateur in the 2012 AIBA Women's World Championships in a decision loss to Savannah Marshall. A loss that Shields would avenge in unifying the Middleweight division as a professional in October 2022.

With a a record of 14-0, with 2 Knockouts, Shields, still an undisputed world champion in the Middleweight division, now attempts to further her legacy by moving up in weight to challenge WBC Heavyweight world champion Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse on July 27th in Detroit, MI in a bout that can be seen globally on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN. The fight, which will take place at the Little Caesars Arena, will essentially be one fought on Shields’ home turf being from Flint, MI. It will also be a bout that has further historical significance as the vacant WBO Light-Heavyweight world championship will also be on the line making it one of the rare fights in Boxing history, make or female where world titles in multiple divisions will be at stake in a single fight.

Although it is something that was criticized when Sugar Ray Leonard knocked out WBC Light-Heavyweight world champion Donny Lalonde im November 1988 to win not only the Light-Heavyweight crown Lalonde held, but also the at that point newly created WBC Super-Middleweight world championship as the Super-Middleweight division was in its beginning stages at that time, it is nevertheless rare when such a concept is implemented.

Like Leonard thirty-six years ago, this is an opportunity for Shields to become a five-division world champion by winning world titles in two divisions in one fight. The similarity does not end there as much like Leonard faced against Lalonde, Shields will be facing an opponent in Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse that is used to fighting at heavier weights than Shields has fought at before.

This is likely where the comparison ends because Shields is two inches taller than Lepage-Joanisse at 5’8 and Shields, now the challenger, has a significant edge in terms of overall experience compared to the champion, who will enter the fight with a record of 7-1, with 2 Knockouts Lepage-Joanisse won the WBC World Heavyweight championship in her last fight in March in scoring a ten round split decision over Abril Vidal in her native Canada.

Normally when discussing a fight where one fighter is making a significant jump in weight, the onus would be on the fighter moving up in weight to show they can compete effectively against fighters that are theoretically bigger and stronger on paper. While the issue of weight is still there and Shields will have to show that it will not be an issue for her, Lepage-Joanisse needs to show that she can compete against someone of Shields caliber due to the significant disadvantage she has in terms of experience. In her fight against Abril Vidal, Lepage-Joanisse was able to get the win by being more active and being first with her punches, which gave her the edge in a very close fight. Whether she will be able to do that against Shields, a fighter who is very compact with her offense and tend to throw her punches in variations of combinations may indeed prove to be easier said than done if the adjustment to fighting at a higher weight turns out to be a non-issue for the challenger.

Regardless of what the outcome of this fight will be when all is said and done, Lepage-Joanisse-Shields represents another in an increasing long line of steps forward for Women's Boxing as well as the more broad issue of equality. It is something that should be celebrated.

“And That's The Boxing Truth." 

Lepage-Joanisse-Shields takes place on Saturday, July 27th at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, MI. The fight can be seen globally on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN beginning at 9PM ET/6PM PT. 

(*U.S. Start 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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Paul-Perry Preview

July 20, 2024 was to be a day in the world of Boxing marked by an event that is a curiosity more so than a legitimate fight in the eyes of many. The day that social media influencer turned aspiring Cruiserweight boxer Jake Paul was to enter the ring at AT&T Stadium in Dallas,TX to square off against long-retired two-time World Heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in an event that would also signal a new entry of broadcast platform into the sport of Boxing in the form of Netflix. As most know, Tyson recently suffered a medical emergency on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles, which resulted in the event being postponed until Friday, November 15th.

With the fifty-eight year old Hall of Famer Tyson sidelined, Paul has opted to keep the original July 20 date as he will face UFC veteran and current Bareknuckle boxer Mike Perry at Amalie Arena in Tampa, FL in a Cruiserweight bout that can be seen on DAZN Pay-Per-View. There are a few interesting things to keep in mind going into this fight. One the risk for Paul in moving forward with the date even though the fight with Tyson, criticized or not, has been rescheduled for November. After all,  there is always the possibility of potential injury that could be sustained, including, but not limited to cuts that could derail things with Tyson even further.  Secondly, there is a perception that Paul, who insists he is serious about being a boxer and wanting to be taken seriously as a boxer, with the goal of fighting for world championships, facing another fighter who is primarily known for his background in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).

The wrinkle here is Mike Perry does have professional Boxing experience, but primarily as a Bareknuckle boxer. How that will translate as he will be fighting under the traditional professional Boxing format for only the second time, remains to be seen. What Perry does bring into this fight is he has shown in his Bareknuckle bouts that he is durable and can take a punch. Where there might be a liability for him is he has shown to be susceptible to being hit with right hands in those fights. 

Although fights fought under Bareknuckle rules do not have the emphasis on the element of defense as compared to its traditional counterpart, what makes this noteworthy is Paul's primary weapon that he has shown throughout his career has been a right hand that he has been able to score six knockouts in his nine career victories. Meanwhile, Perry's lone bout fought under traditional Boxing rules was a four round decision loss to a fighter named Kenneth McNeil in March 2015 in the 168lb. Super-Middleweight. As a Bareknuckle boxer, however, Perry is unbeaten with a record of 6-0, with 3 Knockouts and will come into this fight off of a first round knockout over fellow UFC veteran Thiago Alvez in a fight fought in the Bareknucke Fighting Championship promotion (BKFC) in April of this year.

For his part, Paul is also coming off of a first round knockout win in March over a fighter named Ryan Bourland. While Bourland, a veteran of nineteen professional fights prior to facing Paul, was seen as a step in the right direction for Paul in the sense that unlike the vast majority of Paul's previous opposition, he was a professional boxer with more experience than him, he offered no resistance and Paul was able to get a stoppage late in the first round.

Whether or not this fight with Mike Perry turns out to be something more serious than a “Stay Busy" fight for Paul before taking part in an event being sold as a fight that has been heavily criticized due to the age of Mike Tyson, remains to be seen. While there is some risk involved here and it is understandable that Paul like most fighters in his position would want to stay active when an originally scheduled opponent had to withdraw, it is also understandable how criticism of Paul will likely continue, despite his wanting to be taken seriously as a boxer, regardless of what happens in this fight or in November, if the event with Tyson does take place.

“And That's The Boxing Truth." 

Paul vs. Perry takes place on Saturday, July 20th at Amalie Arena In Tampa, FL. The fight as well as its full undercard can be seen globally on DAZN Pay-Per-View with free preliminary bouts beginning at 7PM ET/4PM PT followed by the pay-per-view card beginning at 9PM ET/6PM PT for $64.99. 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, to subscribe and order this pay-per-view event please visit: www.DAZN.com. 

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Ennis Batters Avanesyan Into Submission

The bout between undefeated IBF World Welterweight champion Jaron Ennis and former European Welterweight champion and former world title challenger David Avanesyan was one that, though it came about on short notice, presented an interesting test for the unbeaten world champion. When one also factors into the equation that Ennis, known to his fans simply as “Boots," was beginning a new chapter in his career, now aligned with promoter Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing and the fact that this fight was in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA, the circumstances were not ideal.

Despite the change in opponent, Ennis met the veteran and durable Avanesyan before a crowd of over 10,000 at the Wells Fargo Center on July 13th. When it comes to fights that are labeled as a “Homecoming" for a fighter touted as one of the rising stars in the sport, or one that is considered a star, the danger is the potential for distractions that could affect the fighter’s focus. In this case, not only was the potential for such a scenario there, but arguably the change in opponent from Cody Crowley to Avanesyan was seen as a step up by some due to Avanesyan’s long standing as a top contender in the Welterweight division, even though the circumstances for him were also not ideal having only four weeks to prepare for the bout.

Although both fighters were put in that position, it did not seem to affect Ennis, who immediately set the tempo of the fight by establishing a stiff jab and landing one that seemed to stun Avanesyan in the opening seconds of the fight. What the champion was also able to establish was a consistent attack to the challenger’s body with both hooks and uppercuts. It was one such uppercut in the first round that hit Avanesyan low and sent him down to the canvas in significant pain.

The foul was unintentional as Avanesyan had his arm around the head of Ennis and appeared to push the champion down into a position where a punch that was aimed for the midsection landed below the belt. It did not, however, deter Ennis from continuing to go to the body and he continued to mix his attack to the body and head of Avanesyan. Although Avanesyan had some success when he attempted to catch the champion in between punches while trying to throw with him, the beating continued and the effects of the punishment began to show on the challenger’s body as well as appearing to show signs of a possible broken jaw.

In round five, Ennis dropped Avanesyan with a perfectly timed counter overhand left that sent the challenger down to the canvas. Avanesyan was able to get up and finish the round, but at the end of the round, his corner stopped the fight. Ennis had successfully made the first defense of his world title and done so by making his opponent submit in his corner. Whether it was Avanesyan or his corner that made the decision, the resignation of a durable longtime contender is something to take notice of.

Perhaps there are some who feel that Avanesyan should have continued. Boxing much like all combat sports has significant dangers that go along with it. In this case, while there was still seven rounds left in the scheduled twelve round world championship bout and in theory, enough time to make an attempt to get into the fight in terms of the scorecards, David Avanesyan was taking significant punishment for five rounds and it should not be dismissed that the effects of that punishment to the body and head likely caused an injury or injuries that led to the decision to retire on his stool. The fan may not understand it and likely wanted to see a knockout in the midst of battle, but one should understand that injuries have to be taken into consideration as well as the potential long-term repercussions not just for the fighter in terms of their career moving forward, but also their life after their career is over. A decision to tend to injuries so one can continue with their career down the line, and/or prevent further injury, though not exciting for a fan watching a fight that was stopped, is often a logical choice.

As for Jaron Ennis, this victory should be seen as a mission accomplished in successfully defending his title. For the moment, he has made a strong case for himself as being the top Welterweight in the world. Whether unification is on his radar or potentially moving up in weight to the 154lb. Jr. Middleweight division to possibly chase former Undisputed World Welterweight champion Terrence Crawford, who will make his Jr. Middleweight debut in August, remains to be seen. 

“And That's The Boxing Truth." 

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Australian Boxing History Looms For Alex Winwood As World Title Fight Is Confirmed

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Press Release: July 12, 2024 By Dragon Fire Boxing - Winwood is set to face undefeated Thai fighter and current WBA minimumweight super title champion Thammanoon Niyomtrong in Perth on September 7.

Aussie sensation Alex Winwood is staring down Australian boxing history after locking in a world title bout for Perth's HBF Stadium, set for September 7.

The 4-0 Bunbury product is set to meet Thai Thammanoon Niyomtrong - also known by his ringname Knockout CP Freshmart, for the WBA minimumweight super title belt in a bid to smash Jeff Fenech's seven-fight record to a world title set in 1985.

Niyomtrong, who boasts a 24 fight undefeated record, has successfully defended his title 11 times since claiming it in 2016.

It's currently the longest title reign in boxing.

Since his professional debut in November of 2022, Winwood has built his CV with a TKO victory over Tibo Monabesa and unanimous decision wins over highly-rated paining Cris Ganoza and recent WBO world title challenger Reyneris Gutierrez, collecting a WBC International Title in the process.

On Saturday, Winwood was named NAIDOC Sportsperson of the Year in recognition of his achievements and community impact.

Ahead of his next test, and the biggest of his career, the 27-year-old said "this is just the start of my legacy in boxing, one that I hope Australia can be proud of and inspire the next generation of boxers".

Winwood says his dream is "just there on the doorstep" in just his fifth professional bout.

"Life's a dream right now, and I'm just enjoying every moment of it," he said.

"I only turned professional under two years ago…I always want to take on the best.

"That's what I said from the get go. But to actually be here is a bit surreal, so I'm just taking every moment as it comes, and I'm just going to get the job done when it comes September 7."

Winwood was due to fight a world title eliminator with Mexico's Luis Castillo in June before the bout was cancelled.

The date in September comes courtesy of promoter Dragon Fire Boxing, alongside Paradigm Entertainment, in conjunction with former world champion Danny Green.

Winwood's world title fight is the first for a WA talent in their home state since Green's over a decade ago.

On Wednesday, Green said Winwood is the "real deal" and "without doubt" a future unified world champion and role model for the entire community.

"He's explosive, he's powerful, he's very skillful. His fundamentals are second to none...He's just got everything," he said.

"And I think the people of Australia, when they see him, once they have the opportunity to see this young guy fight, they're going to be as excited as I am.

Winwood's manager Tony Tolj says his man is "destined for greatness".

Former AFL  Football player and Paradigm Entertainment director Des Headland, who broke the news of the title fight to Winwood with trainer Angelo Hyder and WA Premier Roger Cook, said the opportunity in front of Winwood to take the title at home in front of his mob gives him "goosebumps".

"Alex is a special talent. Not just in the boxing ring, but outside of the ring as well," 

"What he's going to do for our community, and him being a role model is huge. And to have it here on Whadjuk country, here in Perth, he's gonna have all our mob there to support him...It's gonna be a great event.

"Really excited for him to be in front of his family and all our people across WA and the Noongar community here in Perth.

"He's gonna be a sensational talent, and also the next world champion and the quickest ever to do it."

September 7th, History awaits. Tickets available on TIckemaster Australia on Monday July 15th

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

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The Homecoming For Jaron Ennis: A Dangerous Test?

There has been much attention recently surrounding undefeated IBF Welterweight world champion Jaron Ennis, known to Boxing fans as “Boots." Ennis, who is unbeaten in thirty-one professional fights, was the last signee to the now-defunct Showtime Sports and made a name for himself competing in fights promoted under the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) group of promoters. With Showtime’s exit from Boxing at the end of last year as part of a significant restructuring of its parent company Paramount Global and a decision by Ennis to not continue fighting under the PBC banner, in stepped promoter Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing and thus the beginning of a new chapter in Ennis’ career. A chapter that not only begins with him signing with a new promoter but also a world championship after recently being elevated to world champion by the International Boxing Federation (IBF) from being it's top contender following former Undisputed Welterweight world champion Terrence Crawford choosing to test the waters in the Jr. Middleweight division for his next fight.

While Crawford is moving up to the 154lb. Jr. Middleweight division, his exit from the 147lb. Welterweight division has signaled a period of transition, which is very similar to what has been going on recently in the Jr. Welterweight and Lightweight divisions, the two weight classes directly below the Welterweight division. With the recent theme continuing to be “Transition," the obvious question is whether Ennis will be able to make a strong argument for himself as being the new central figure in the Welterweight division.

The first defense for Ennis of his IBF crown will come at the Wells Fargo Center in the champion’s hometown of Philadelphia, PA on Saturday, July 13th, which will also mark his debut on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN. As there always seems to be in Boxing, things are not always simple and straightforward. Ennis was originally scheduled to face contender Cody Crowley in this title defense, but Crowley was forced to withdraw from the bout due to a failed eye exam. In steps former European Welterweight champion and recent world title challenger David Avanesyan on short notice for his second attempt at a world title.

Some may argue that Avanesyan stepping in makes this fight a more dangerous assignment for the newly crowned world champion. In addition to being a former European Welterweight champion, Avanesyan is a longtime top contender, who also had Interim/Regular champion status in the WBA’s Welterweight ratings at one point in his career. Avanesyan has only been stopped twice in his thirty-five fight professional career. Many will remember his last loss, which came at the hands of Terence Crawford in December 2022. It was a fight that was competitive until Crawford landed a fight-ending uppercut in the sixth round. 

While a one-punch knockout will always be a one-punch knockout and as such will always make heads turn, it is important to keep in mind that just because a fighter may be knocked out by a single punch, it does not necessarily mean that said fighter is susceptible to being caught. More simplistically, sometimes fights that end in the manner in which Avanesyan’s title shot against Crawford did, should be viewed on a case-by-case basis. It also goes without saying that Terence Crawford has proven throughout his career to be a rare generational fighter in terms of talent and overall skillset. The question here is whether Jaron Ennis has similar traits.

Although one should not look to Crawford’s knockout of Avanesyan as a baseline to compare what Ennis might be able to do, there is nevertheless some who might expect a similar outcome here based on Ennis’ punching power in having scored knockouts in twenty-eight of his thirty-one professional fights. What one should keep in mind, however, is David Avanesyan is a world-class boxer, who can do a little of everything and has shown the ability to be very crafty throughout his career as well. The challenger has been back in the ring once since his loss to Crawford in scoring a third round stoppage of Serge Ambomo in December of last year. 

While the circumstances of this bout are not ideal for either fighter, the challenge for Avanesyan will be not only stepping into his second world title shot on short notice, but also doing so in the champion’s hometown before what will likely be a partisan crowd. Whether Avanesyan will be able to use his experience to withstand what might be an early storm by Ennis in terms of throwing power punches in an attempt to look impressive in front of his hometown crowd remains to be seen. 

Nonetheless, the new chapter for Ennis will begin with what should be an interesting fight. With Crawford now moving on from Welterweight, the angling for position among the top fighters in the division, those who are world champions, top contenders, and would be world champions has begun. Can Jaron Ennis emerge as the new central figure in the Welterweight division? We will find out on Saturday, July 13th.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

Ennis vs. Avanesyan takes place on Saturday, July 13th at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA. The fight as well as its full undercard can be seen globally on digital subscription sports streaming network DAZN beginning at 8PM ET/5PM PT.

(*U.S. Times Only*) 

(*Card and Start time 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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Was Victory Over Harutyunyan Stevenson's Swan Song With Top Rank?

The story leading up to undefeated three-division world champion Shakur Stevenson's bout against Artem Harutyunyan on July 6th was his first title defense as the WBC World Lightweight champion.  Before a hometown crowd, Stevenson put forth a dominant performance, skillfully out Boxing Harutyunyan over twelve rounds to retain his world title. 

While this observer summed up what occurred at the Prudential Center in Stevenson's hometown of Newark, NJ,  there is more to the story, which was omitted from the preview penned by yours truly last week, but was not done so as a means of ignoring on my part. It was simply something that I chose to hold off discussing until after the fight. Just what am I referring to? The fact that this fight and what turned out to be the latest successful, lopsided outing for Stevenson, was the final bout under his current promotional agreement with Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum's Top Rank Inc. Normally, I do my best to try and avoid discussing these types of issues involving what could be a parting of ways between a fighter and a promoter. The reason for this is certainly not out of fear to discuss such subjects, but frankly such situations, which are firmly in the realm of the business end of the sport, tend to often resemble conflicts that one would see play out on a “Reality TV” program, only thanks in part to the age we are living in, such disputes/differences of opinion tend to now play out across social media platforms as well as others methods of communication. 

Although this may be entertaining for some, I personally have a hard time, despite my best efforts,  following it all, much less being able to discern what is fact, fiction, or simply folks blowing off steam. In this case, while there may not be much in the way of public spats between fighter and promoter, there is a true conundrum that may not be easily answered. 

Shakur Stevenson is a truly gifted fighter that may ultimately go on to be regarded as a generational talent. The problem for him and anyone who promotes him is he may be in a rare category where he might be too good, for his own good. What do I mean by that dear reader? Stevenson just might be one of those fighters that fighters in and around his weight class, and to be more specific, those who handle those fighters from a managerial and promotional standpoint as a high risk, low reward scenario. In that the risk of defeat against someone with the elusive, crafty type of style that Stevenson has is obviously high because he has proven to be a difficult puzzle to solve thus far. Furthermore, where the low reward aspect enters the equation is Stevenson, though extremely talented and highly skilled, has not been the type of fighter to put himself at risk for the entertainment of a crowd attending his fights or those who tune in to watch his fight through streaming or traditional platforms, nor should he for the mere sake of entertainment value. The main objective in the sport of Boxing and why it is known as “The Sweet Science" is after all, to hit and not be hit. Something that Stevenson has been nearly flawless executed so far in his unbeaten career.

What might be most troublesome for Stevenson in terms of his negotiating position both in trying to secure more lucrative paydays as well as in securing a long-term agreement with a promoter like Bob Arum and a selling point to the public, despite his domination, is he has seemed more content to box his way to victories via the judges scorecards than looking for a victory inside the distance via knockout or stoppage. The most recent example of this was his fight against Artem Harutyunyan where, despite his confidence before the fight as well as indicating to his corner in the middle of the fight that he would stop Harutyunyan, he seemed for lack of a better term, to take his foot off the gas as the fight progressed even as there were points throughout where it seemed like if he pressed the issue more, he may have been able to stop Harutyunyan. While part of this should be attributed to the “Game" effort of Harutyunyan, who never stopped trying to turn things in his favor, it is not a positive for any fighter competing in a world championship bout as the main event attraction in their hometown to hear what should be an enthusiastic crowd, voicing their dissatisfaction with what they are seeing by booing the fighter they paid to see, despite a dominant, one-sided performance that has become a Stevenson trademark. 

Whether or not the now promotional free agent and WBC World Lightweight champion decides to stay with Arum, the promoter he has been aligned with since the beginning of his professional career, remains to be seen, but the need to showcase all his God given attributes, and do so in a way that will drum up support for him from the public, increase ratings,where both he and his promoter will make top dollar, and most importantly, to convince other star fighters in and around the same weight division to take the risk in fighting him. Without finding what is a delicate balance between showcasing his skills and doing so where it maximizes his value, the conundrum Stevenson now finds himself in will continue to follow him. It is  a shame because Shakur Stevenson should be appreciated for the outstanding fighter he is turning out to be.

“And That's The Boxing Truth." 

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Stevenson Looks To Make Successful First Defense Of Lightweight Crown

 

With the departure of former Undisputed Lightweight world champion Devin Haney, the period of transition in the 135lb. Lightweight division continues with several world champions in the division looking to make their claim as being the best Lightweight in the world. In recent times both Vasyl Lomachenko and Gervonta Davis have made their respective arguments. Lomachenko emerged as a unified world champion in the division on May 12th with an eleventh round stoppage of IBO world champion George Kambosos in Kambosos’ home country of Australia. Along with the IBO world championship, Lomachenko also gained the vacant IBF crown, emerging as a unified world champion, and in many ways, by default, because he became a unified world champion, became the fighter that all top contenders, other world champions, and would be prospects look to target for a potential fight. The vacant WBO world championship would be decided on May 18th when undefeated top contender Denys Berinchyk scored what many felt was an upset in scoring a twelve round split decision over the heavily favored former three-division world champion Emanuel Navarrete in San Diego, CA.

This was followed by Gervonta Davis, who was recently elevated to world champion in the WBA Lightweight ratings, making a successful first defense of his piece of the World Lightweight championship with a brutal eighth round knockout of previously unbeaten top contender Frank Martin in Las Vegas, NV on June 15th. A fight and Davis appeared to be losing, only for the champion to graciously walk his opponent down and end matters with a brutal right uppercut, left him combination. As much of a statement as that knockout was by Davis, there is one more world champion in the Lightweight division that is awaiting his chance to make his claim as being the best Lightweight in the world. 

Yours truly is referring to undefeated three-division world champion Shakur Stevenson, who is the current holder of the WBC World Lightweight championship. Stevenson won the then vacant WBC crown with a twelve round unanimous decision over Edwin De Los Santos in November of last year. While Stevenson did what he had to do in that fight to win a world championship in his third weight class, it was not a crowd-pleasing performance by Stevenson who tends to be underappreciated by some for his overall skillset and his ability to box rather than engaging in a more toe to toe battle with his opponents.

Following the success of Lomachenko, Berinchyk, and Davis, Stevenson will now look to make the first defense of his WBC crown on July 6th as he will face current WBC number seven Lightweight contender Artem Harutyunyan at the Prudential Center in Stevenson’s hometown of Newark, NJ. A world championship bout that can be seen on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+.

While this fight has all the appearance of a homecoming for the champion in a venue that he has fought three times previously in his career, what does the challenger bring with him into this fight? Artem Harutyunyan has had thirteen professional fights and has only one defeat. Some might argue that the setback for the Armenian-born, German-based Harutyunyan came in his only opportunity to date to step up in the caliber of opposition in terms of world level. The defeat came in losing a twelve round unanimous decision to Frank Martin in July of last year, which was coincidentally Harutyunyan’s last fight. 

The effort he showed in that fight however, in what was a close and competitive contest, along with his having won titles on the regional level of the sport including titles affiliated with the World Boxing Council (WBC), earned him the number seven ranking in their Lightweight ratings. While Harutyunyan does have a limited resume in terms of facing world-rated opposition, he has scored knockouts in seven of his twelve victories, albeit against largely unknown opposition.

Nevertheless, the challenger faces a significant uphill battle against Stevenson. The onus is on Harutyunyan to show what he can do and show that this is a more serious fight than some are anticipating. 

The old adage of styles make fights almost always applies to just about any fight, but the adage that this observer is often quoted as saying should also apply. “Boxing Is A Sport Of Opportunity." While just about every attribute one could measure seems to be in favor of the champion Stevenson, from overall experience on the world championship level to style in being elusive, to hand speed, sometimes all a fighter wants is an opportunity. There is always the possibility for a challenger, a significant underdog, to pull off a surprise, despite what logic and statistics might suggest. Whether Artem Harutyunyan can do that remains to be seen as does whether Stevenson can make a convincing argument for himself as the number one fighter amidst the latest refresh of the Lightweight division. 

“And That's The Boxing Truth." 

Stevenson vs. Harutyunyan takes place on Saturday, July 6th at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. The fight and its full undercard can be seen in the United States on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+ beginning at 6PM ET/3PM PT. For more information about ESPN+ including schedules, list of compatible streaming devices, platforms, Smart TVs, and to subscribe please visit: www.ESPNPlus.com. 

(*Card and Start Time Subject To Change*)

(*Check your local listings Internationally*)

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