Brook KO’s DeLuca In 7

Former IBF World Welterweight champion Kell Brook scored an impressive seventh round knockout over veteran Mark DeLuca on Saturday night at the Sheffield Arena in Sheffield, England. Brook, who was returning to the ring following a fourteen month layoff appeared a bit wary in the first two rounds and did not let his hands go consistently. This would change however, in round three where he dropped DeLuca with a short combination to the head. Despite appearing to be at a disadvantage in terms of hand speed and appearing to have suffered a broken nose, DeLuca was able to get up and the fight continued.

Although he was knocked down, DeLuca was more than willing to engage with Brook and did manage to have sporadic success throughout landing right hands to the head and consistently attempting to go to Brook’s body.The hand speed of Brook would show itself again toward the end of the fourth round when a barrage of punches seemed to have DeLuca in trouble and on the ropes, but he was able to survive the round. 

As the fight progressed, Brook continued to administer punishment on DeLuca landing punches with both hands to the head and body. DeLuca remained very “Game” and never stopped trying to return offense. The end would however, come in round seven when Brook connected with a short left hook to the head that sent DeLuca down for the second time. With the effects of the punishment he had sustained throughout the fight clearly evident, the valiant DeLuca was unable to beat the count of ten and that concluded matters at 1:15 of round seven. Kell Brook advances to 39-2, with 27 Knockouts. Mark DeLuca falls to 24-2, with 14 Knockouts.

In an IBF Featherweight elimination bout, former world title challenger Kid Galahad scored a one-sided ninth round stoppage over former IBO World Featherweight champion Claudio Marrero. Galahad used effective angles and combination punching to prevent Marrero from finding a consistent rhythm throughout the fight. Although there were points throughout where both fighters were warned for what appeared to be roughhousing on the inside, Galahad never relinquished control of the fight and after nine rounds of accumulated punishment, Marrero’s corner informed Referee Howard Foster that they were pulling their fighter out of the fight to prevent him from further punishment. Kid Galahad advances to 27-1, with 16 Knockouts. Claudio Marrero falls to 24-4, with 17 Knockouts.

Undefeated Welterweight Anthony Tomlinson scored a ninth round stoppage of Stewart Burt in a British and Commonwealth elimination bout. Anthony Tomlinson advances to 12-0, with 7 Knockouts. Stewart Burt falls to 13-2-1, with 1 Knockout.

In a battle for the unified Women’s IBO/WBC Jr. Lightweight world championship, undefeated IBO world champion Terri Harper successfully unified her crown by scoring a ten round unanimous decision over longtime WBC champion Eva Wahlstrom Harper’s hand speed and lateral movement proved to be too much for Wahlstrom as she was able to out box and outwork the WBC champion over the ten round bout. The highlight of the fight came in the seventh round when Harper was able to score a knockdown of Wahlstrom with what appeared to be a body shot on her way to winning the fight on all three official scorecards. Terri Harper advances to 10-0, with 5 Knockouts. Eva Wahlstrom falls to 22-2, with 3 Knockouts.

Jr. Lightweight Martin Ward scored a dominant ten round decision over Jesus Amparan. The fight was dominated by Ward’s lateral movement and combination punching. Ward scored two knockdowns in the fight, the first from a right hook to the body in round seven, which was followed by another right hook body shot in the tenth and final round to seal the victory. Martin Ward advances to 24-1-2, with 11 Knockouts. Jesus Amparan falls to 16-2, with 14 Knockouts.

Also in the Jr. Lightweight division, unbeaten prospect Donte Dixon scored a fourth round stoppage of Eduardo Valverde. Donte Dixon advances to 3-0, with 2 Knockouts. Eduardo Valverde falls to 2-3-1, with 1 Knockout.

Heavyweight veteran Dave Allen scored a second round knockout of journeyman Dorian Darch. After an uneventful first round where Allen spent most of it standing with his arms at his sides, he exploded in the second round dropping Darch with a left hook to the head followed by several body shots. This was followed by a follow-up barrage that sent Darch down for a second time. Darch sat on the canvas for a few seconds before choosing to lay back and allow himself to be counted out at :53 of round two. Dave Allen advances to 18-5-2, with 15 Knockouts. Dorian Darch falls to 12-12-1, with 1 Knockout. 

Unbeaten Super-Middleweight John Docherty scored a first round knockout over late substitute Pablo Mendoza. The tall and rangy Docherty dropped Mendoza with a flush left hook to the head at the end of the first round. Mendoza, who was substituting for original opponent Stanislav Eschner, staggered to his feet and stumbled into a corner pad prompting Referee Howard Foster to stop the fight immediately after the bell rang to end round one. John Docherty advances to 8-0, with 6 Knockouts. Pablo Mendoza falls to 9-4, with 9 Knockouts.

Undefeated Cruiserweight Callum Beardow opened the card scoring a four round decision over Pawel  Martyniuk. Callum Beardow advances to 2-0, with 0 Knockouts. Pawel  Martyniuk falls to 1-4, with 1 Knockout. 

Three storylines emerged coming out of this card that will likely continue to be topics as 2020 continues. First among those storylines is the re-emergence of Kell Brook, who now as a 154lb. Jr. Middleweight could find himself in some intriguing bouts. Perhaps the most interesting possibility for the moment for Brook could be an encounter with former WBO Jr. Middleweight world champion Liam Smith, which would likely be a marquee draw in England where both fighters are based. 

Similarly, the story of the unified Women’s IBO/WBC Jr. Lightweight world champion Terri Harper could likely see a move up to the 135lb. Lightweight division where a fight with current undisputed world champion Katie Taylor. In the expanding world of Women’s Boxing a fight between Taylor and Harper is not just one of the best fights that could be made between two of the top fighters in the United Kingdom, but in the sport currently.

For Kid Galahad, his victory over Claudio Marrero puts him back in position to challenge for s world championship. In his previous attempt at a world title, Galahad lost a twelve round split decision to undefeated IBF world champion Josh Warrington in June of last year, the lone loss in Galahad’s career. With Galahad once again the number one contender for the IBF crown, it creates the possibility of a rematch of what was a highly competitive fight. 

Although what takes place inside the ring ultimately draws the most interest, there are times where the stories that follow the fighters themselves and the possible lead up to fights that could be made can be just as intriguing. The three stories that surround these fighters are no exception.

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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

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Thoughts On The Recent Bouts Of Yordenis Ugas And Austin Trout

Initially, the main story for the sport of Boxing heading into Super Bowl 54 weekend was the scheduled WBC Jr. Welterweight world championship bout between champion Jose Ramirez and former world champion Viktor Postol. In a rare circumstance, the bout between the two, which was scheduled to take place on February 1st in China was not cancelled or postponed due to an injury or illness to either fighter, but the cancellation instead came as a result of the Coronavirus epidemic that has severely impacted the country and has subsequently caused significant concern and precautions around the world.

As regular readers of The Boxing Truth®️ know, there was another bout that took place on that evening that perhaps because of the Ramirez-Postol cancellation received more recognition. This observer is referred to the Welterweight encounter between former world title challenger Yordenis Ugas and Mike Dallas Jr. that took place in Biloxi, MS.

In previewing this fight, I stated that the question going in was what version of Mike Dallas would show up. Dallas, a world-class fighter had perhaps been more known for his setbacks than his successes. Since returning to the ring in November 2013 following a two year layoff after suffering a knockout loss at the hands of Lucas Matthysse in January 2013, Dallas had gone unbeaten in five bouts.

The thing that many find appealing about the sport of Boxing as this observer has said many times, is that it is a sport of opportunity and sometimes all it takes is for a fighter to build momentum in order to gain opportunity. Nevertheless, I did wonder in the days leading up to the fight whether this was an opportunity that Dallas would be ready for. Despite the momentum he was able to build, Ugas had been in against a higher level of competition going into this encounter and it was reasonable to ask if Dallas would be ready for a step up.

This bout can be summed up by simply describing the pattern of the combat. From the opening bell, Ugas applied pressure on Dallas. Although Dallas was willing to engage and exchange with Ugas, he could not land anything to discourage Ugas from coming forward and could not break the pattern of being consistently pushed back. Ugas’ greater activity and heavier blows ultimately convinced Dallas’ corner to stop the fight after the seventh round. 

The twenty-fifth victory of Ugas’ career was an impressive one and one frankly that if you’re involved with a fighter who recently fought for a world championship would want to see. Although this performance could best be called workmanlike for Ugas, It will allow him to maintain his position as a top contender in the 147lb. Welterweight division.

Another fighter who saw action on February 1st was longtime Jr. Middleweight contender Austin Trout. Trout, who is best known for his time holding Interim/regular champion status In the World Boxing Association (WBA) Jr. Middleweight ratings where his biggest win came in defending that designation with a unanimous decision victory over future Hall of Famer Miguel Cotto in December 2012, last fought in May of last year earning a ten round split decision draw against Terrell Gausha. 

After spending the bulk of his career competing in the Jr. Middleweight division, Trout returned to the ring in Ruidoso, NM, but as a Welterweight where he faced largely unknown veteran Rosbel Montoya.  Although Trout has failed to successfully go from top contender to world champion in his career, most knowledgeable Boxing aficionados would agree he is an elite level fighter who has held his own against some of the best fighters of his era. 

This fight was more of an evaluation type of fight for Trout. What I mean by this for the reader is that even though Trout weighed in slightly above the 147lb. Welterweight limit for this bout, he was testing the waters in a new weight class and in terms of his opposition, Rosbel Montoya could be described by some as a “Journeyman “ entertaining the fight with a record of 17-9-1, with 13 Knockouts. The gleaming statistic of Montoya’s record was that of those nine losses, he had been stopped in eight of those nine fights.

While some may criticize the selection of a fighter with such a record as an opponent for a fighter of Trout’s caliber, fighters like Montoya do serve a purpose of evaluation for fighters at different stages whether they be young prospects on their way up the ranks or, in this case, a world-class boxer looking to test the waters in a new division. It also goes without saying that there are times where fighters with the type of record as the one Montoya brought into the ring with him turn out to be tougher opponents than their records would indicate. 

In this case, it was clear from the opening bell that Montoya was overmatched as Trout scored a knockdown of him in the first round and following a consistent attack to Montoya’s body scored a second knockdown in round two forcing a stoppage of the fight. At the end of the day, this is what one should have been expected to see of a fighter of Austin Trout’s pedigree against a “Game “, but ultimately overmatched fighter. The question is what comes next?

Although this bout did not take place under the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) banner, Trout is still managed by Al Haymon, the primary backer of the PBC. Yordenis Ugas also currently competes under the PBC banner. In thinking of potential options for both fighters, this observer feels it’s logical that Ugas and Trout be potential opponents for each other.

For Yordenis Ugas, a fight against Trout could provide him with another opportunity at a world championship should he be able to score a win against a notable opponent of Trout’s caliber. Now having gotten his feet wet in the 147lb. Welterweight division, a fighter against a top contender like Ugas obviously would provide Trout with an opportunity to launch himself into the discussion of potential world title challengers in the division if he were to defeat Ugas.

Although the current business landscape of the sport has an emphasis on exclusivity both in regard to fighters being under exclusive contracts with promoters and those promoters having exclusive contracts with television networks across both traditional and digital streaming platforms has led to some justifiable criticism regarding some fights not being made that are in public demand, this is one instance where the roadblocks that are present in the sport that prevent fights from taking place are not there. Here you have two fighters in the same weight class and fighting under the same promotional banner. 

As the landscape for the moment continues to emphasize exclusivity where some promoters and networks remain reluctant to work together to put on marquee fights on a consistent basis, it falls on the promoters to focus their efforts on making the best fights that could be made under the current business landscape of the sport of Boxing. Why not this one?

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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

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

Kylie Hutt Signs With Tony Tolj And Dragon Fire Boxing

Press Release: February 7, 2020 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Current Australian Welterweight Champion Kylie Hutt has signed in with Tony Tolj and Dragon Fire Boxing as she looks to become a two weight Australian champion.  

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

The Western Australian now joins a host of talent that includes world standouts Andrew and Jason Moloney, Billel Dib, Bruno Tarimo, Jackson England, Steve Gago, Andres Campos and more top names. 

Hutt opened up about signing with Tolj and Dragon Fire Boxing. She said, “I am absolutely delighted to have signed with Tony Tolj and Dragon Fire Boxing and I believe this is a move that will take my career to new levels. 

“I’ve already been national champion and I want to do it again at a new weight and believe I can do it again. However, I want to go beyond that and see how far I can go and fight some girls from all over the world. I know having Tony and Dragon Fire Boxing in my corner is what I need in order to make that a possibility.”

Hutt currently holds the welterweight title, beating Sarah Dwyer back in 2018 but for the gold. Now campaigning at 140, the ‘Ice Queen’ discussed her plans to become a two weight champion. 

Hutt said, “I’m looking to become a national champion again but I am in good hands with The Big Boss man Tony and will leave him to make the decisions in my career going forward. 

“I’m hoping we can lock in a title fight for May time, and then work towards more. I’m not in this business for easy fights I’m in this business for real fights and I believe that I will put some butts in seats come fight time and in the future.

“Fight fans in Australia want to see hard hitting action and that’s what I want to bring to the table in meaningful fights so I’m eager to get the ball rolling again and I’m excited to get become a champion once more.”

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

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

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

Update

We would like to let our readers know that new material discussing some of the Boxing action that took place on February 1st is in the works and will be released here on the website on Friday, February 7th during the evening hours. Stay tuned. "And That's The Boxing Truth."

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

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

GONE IN 50 SECONDS. RAYNEL MEDEROS KOS HURTADO

Press Release: February 3, 2020 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Last Friday newly signed Dragon Fire Boxing prospect, King Raynel Mederos improved his pro record to 3-0 with a devastating body shot. 

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

The Cuban amateur boxing standout Mederos dismantled Bolivian Carlos Ever Rocha HURTADO 4-4 inside 50 seconds in the opening stanza

One of the featured headline fights at the Club Mexico Stadium in Santiago Chile.

The event was the first of the newly launched Dragon Fire Latino promotional company by Chiles Nico "Maverick" Martinez.

Martinez opened about Dragon Fire Boxing Latino, "This will be a busy year for Dragon Fire Boxing Latino and Chilean boxing. Firstly its an honor to partner with Australias Tony Tolj. We are determined to give our boxers the best opportunities in Chile and build the next generation of boxers, our marquee stars are WBA Fedebol Champion Andres Campos, Ramon Mascareña and Raynel Mederos are boxers who will be the future and its an honor to see these Super human warriors go to the next level"

Mederos opened up about his fight, "Firstly I want to thank God, my manager The Big Bossman Tony Tolj, My promoter "The Maverick" Nico Martinez. I put in the work in the gym and the results came, I have an amazing team around me and I know thats what it takes to go to the next level. I'm looking forward to having a massive year.

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

 For more information about Dragon Fire Boxing Follow Dragon Fire Boxing on Facebook facebook.com/dragonfireboxing, and on Instagram @dragonfire_boxing

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

Andrade Stops Keeler In 9/ Full Miami Fight Night Results

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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

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

Francis Chua Re-signs With Dragon Fire Boxing

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

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Miami Fight Night Weights

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

Credit: Ed Mulholland/ Matchroom Boxing USA 

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

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

 12-Round WBO Middleweight Title Bout @160 lbs.

Demetrius Andrade: 159.6 lbs.

Luke Keeler: 159.4 lbs

6-Round Cruiserweight Bout @ 193 lbs.

Jake Paul: 191.8 lbs.

AnEsonGib: 188 lbs.

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

Tevin Farmer: 130 lbs.

JoJo Diaz: 129.8 lbs.

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

Daniel Roman: 121.6 lbs.

Murodjon Akhmadaliev: 121.4 lbs.

About DAZN:

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

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

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

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

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

Miami Fight Night Final Presser Quotes

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

Credit: Ed Mulholland/Matchroom Boxing USA 

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

Final Press Conference Quotes

Demetrius Andrade, WBO Middleweight World Champion

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

Luke Keeler, Middleweight Contender

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

Jake Paul

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

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

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

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

AnEsonGib

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

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

Shane Mosley (Jake Paul’s Trainer)

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

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

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

Viddal Riley (AnEsonGib’s Trainer)

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

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

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

Tevin Farmer, IBF Super Featherweight World Champion

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

Joseph “JoJo” Diaz, Super Featherweight challenger

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

Danny Roman, WBA and IBF Super Bantamweight World Champion

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

Murodjon Akhmadaliev, Super Bantamweight World Champion

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

Anthony Sims, Jr., Super Middleweight Champion

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

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

Joseph Markowski, EVP DAZN North America

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

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

“Demetrius Andrade looking to make a statement on a big stage and lure the division’s biggest names into career-defining matchups later this year. Tevin Farmer and JoJo Diaz competing in a can’t-miss grudge match. A guy in Danny Roman, who has been with DAZN since our U.S. launch, putting both of his belts on the line against a hungry, undefeated fighter in Akhmadaliev.

  

“In addition to a championship tripleheader, Thursday’s co-main event will see Jake Paul looking to avenge his brother’s loss by defeating Gib on his way to a fight with KSI.

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

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

Eddie Hearn, President of Matchroom Boxing USA

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

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

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

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

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

About DAZN:

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

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

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