DILLIAN WHYTE RETURNS AGAINST JERMAINE FRANKLIN AT THE OVO ARENA, WEMBLEY ON NOVEMBER 26

Press Release: By DAZN – 21 OCTOBER 2022, LONDON: Dillian Whyte will face undefeated American contender Jermaine Franklin on his highly anticipated return to the ring on Saturday November 26 at the OVO Arena, Wembley, live worldwide on DAZN.

Credit:DAZN 

 

‘The Body Snatcher’ (28-3, 19 Kos) fell short in his challenge for Tyson Fury’s WBC Heavyweight World Title at Wembley Stadium in April, succumbing to a sixth-round stoppage defeat in front of over 90,000 fans. 

 

Brixton’s bit-hitting former Interim WBC Heavyweight World Champion, 35, is set to fight at the OVO Arena, Wembley for the first time in his career as he looks to kickstart his journey towards a second shot at world honours. 

 

Michigan’s Franklin (21-0, 14 Kos) is unbeaten in 21 fights since joining the professional ranks in April 2015 and the 28-year-old will be fighting outside of the USA for the first time in his professional career when he meets Whyte over 12 rounds in London. 

 

Once described as America’s next Heavyweight hope, Franklin ended a two-and-a-half-year layoff by stopping Houston’s Rodney Moore in five rounds at McBride Hall in Gary, Indiana in May to extend his perfect record.

 

An action-packed undercard sees fast-rising Ipswich Heavyweight Fabio Wardley (14-0, 13 Kos) clash with Nantwhich’s Nathan Gorman (19-1, 13 Kos) for the vacant British Title, former WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title challenger Craig Richards (17-3-1, 10 Kos) take on Latvian warrior Ricards Bolotniks (19-6-1, 8 Kos) in an exciting match-up at 175lbs and Derby’s Sandy Ryan (4-1, 2 Kos) challenge Mexico’s Magali Rodriguez (20-6-2, 9 Kos) for her WBC Silver Super-Lightweight Title.

 

Wardley, 27, stopped Simon Vallily in three rounds of their hotly anticipated grudge match to pick up the vacant English Title at Fight Camp in August 2020 before blitzing Nick Webb inside one round to retain the belt a year later at Matchroom’s HQ in Essex.

 

Gorman, whose only loss came at the hands of Daniel Dubois back in July 2019, dusted off 15 months of ringrust in his last fight in June, bulldozing through Tomas Salek in just 81 seconds to win the IBF Intercontinental Title at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.

 

Crystal Palace’s Richards put in a spirited display as he pushed WBA Champion Dmitry Bivol all the way in his first World Title attempt in May 2021. ‘Spider’ returned to winning ways by impressively stopping Marek Matyja in six rounds before being outpointed by South London rival Joshua Buatsi at The O2 earlier this year.

 

Bolotniks, who holds wins over Steven Ward and Hosea Burton, will be familiar to UK fight fans following his brave battle with Olympic Bronze Medallist Buatsi at Matchroom’s second instalment of Fight Camp last summer – where he was eventually stopped in the eleventh round of their WBA International Title clash. 

 

Former Team GB star Ryan goes for her second title in the pro ranks after exacting revenge over Erica Anabella Farias – the only woman to beat her – at the Sheffield Arena in August to pick up the vacant WBC International Super-Lightweight Title. 

 

“It’s great to be back, doing what I love doing,” said Whyte. “I can’t wait to get into the ring and show the world that when push comes to shove I can get right back up in Wembley and remind everyone why I was WBC number one for over four years. 

“As an undefeated Heavyweight, Franklin is a dangerous guy but I’m going to teach him quite a few lessons at the OVO on November 26. Most importantly, I’m going to teach him how to lose.”

 

“I’m super hyped to fight in the UK,” said Franklin. “They love boxing and I plan on making a statement when I beat Dillian. I want them to be loud and love my boxing style and have them embrace me as the people’s champ. The world will see the real Jermaine Franklin Jr. 

 

“Dillian is a warrior. He has heart and he’s been with the best. It’s time for him to step aside and let the ‘989 Assassin’ make him body number 22 on my body count. The kind of fight I expect is a brawl. Dillian wants to prove he’s got something left in the tank. I want to show him I’m the future of boxing and for USA Heavyweights. 

 

“When I beat Dillian I want this victory to be followed with a title shot or a major fight to take me to the title. I’m like Holyfield. I’m a warrior. I’m from the hood. You have to take my heart and that will never happen in the ring. I have speed and power. I have no problem taking a punch to land my own. I am America’s next Heavyweight Champion.”

 

“I’m buzzing to be fighting for the British Title, I’ve had my eyes set on this belt for so long and I can’t wait to get my hands on it,” said Wardley. “Nathan Gorman’s a good fighter, but nothing is going to stop me from checking off this next milestone of my career. I thrive under the pressure of big fights like this, I live for it, there’ll be no better feeling than standing over him with my hand raised. I take my opportunities when they come, I’m not going to need any second chances like he did.

 

“I’ve never trained harder, I’ve never been fitter, it’s like the stars have aligned for this camp and everything is coming together perfectly. I’ve come on leaps and bounds with the new addition to my coaching team and I’m technically improving every day. That mixed with my natural athleticism and serious KO power, there’s nothing Nathan can bring to stop me.”

 

“It’s my second opportunity fighting for the British Title, so I’ve got to take it with both hands and this time it isn’t going anywhere other than back home with me,” said Gorman. “It’s against Fabio Wardley, and I know I’ll be facing the best Wardley that has ever entered that ring. Unfortunately for him, that will be met with the best Nathan Gorman, who is improving every second he spends in that gym.

 

“The thing I have that he doesn’t possess is the experience. I’ve already been in there with tougher questions that I have come through and answered, whereas I’m his acid test. It’ll be interesting if he lasts longer than rounds 5 or 6, he has a cut eye, and things aren’t going his way. He isn’t going to be able to match what I bring.”

 

“I’m delighted to welcome one of the biggest stars in Heavyweight boxing Dillian Whyte to the DAZN platform,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “The Body Snatcher is hungrier than ever after falling short in his first ever World Title challenge earlier this year and he’s jumping straight back in at the deep end against a young and dangerous fighter in Jermaine Franklin. Expect Maximum Violence in an England vs. USA main event.

 

“We’ve got an incredible undercard in store for you at the OVO Arena, Wembley on November 26 including the vacant British Heavyweight Title clash between Fabio Wardley and Nathan Gorman, a brilliant match-up at 175lbs between former World Title challenger Craig Richards and Ricards Bolotniks and Sandy Ryan going for another title against tough Mexican Magali Rodriguez. Catch it all live worldwide on DAZN.”

 “Nathan has made a fantastic comeback this year having had 18-months out, with the quick capture of an IBF Title being proof of that,” said Wasserman’s Head of Global Boxing, Kalle Sauerland. 

 

“Of course, the British Heavyweight Championship is one of the most respected titles in boxing and will propel him on to the world stage even further. We’re very confident Nathan will get the job done on November 26 and set up a HUGE 2023.”

 

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Dillian Whyte, one of the biggest names in Heavyweight boxing, to the platform on November 26,” said Joseph Markowski, CEO DAZN North America. “Jermaine Franklin will be a tough test for Dillian with the fight topping a stacked card full of action-packed matchups including Wardley vs. Gorman, Richards vs. Bolotniks and of course a future star in Sandy Ryan. Do not miss this fight! Live and exclusive and part of your DAZN subscription worldwide.”

 

Ticket details will be released shortly.

ABOUT DAZN

DAZN is the world’s leading sports entertainment platform. The only global digital sports broadcaster, DAZN is live in over 200 countries and is reimagining the way people enjoy sport. With a single, frictionless platform, sports fans can watch, bet, play, share, socialise, and buy tickets, NFTs and merchandise. Live and on-demand sports content, anywhere, in any language, on any device – only on DAZN. DAZN is a global, privately-owned company with employees in over 25 countries. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit www.dazngroup.com. 

Material and Photo Courtesy of: DAZN Used with permission.

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. 

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

WINNER OF BATESON VS MASOUD TO BE HONOURED WITH ALI TAZEEM TROPHY

Press Release: By Probellum – LONDON, OCTOBER 21 – The memory of the outstanding British boxing prospect Ali Tazeem will live on in a new award that carries his name. 

Credit: Probellum 

Tazeem, 18, was about to begin an exciting journey as a professional fighter when, in April, he tragically lost his life in a road accident. 

The hugely popular teenager from Wolverhampton had already been dubbed the ‘New Amir Khan’ and was set to take the pro ranks by storm before his untimely passing, which left his family and friends devastated and the boxing community shaken. 

But Probellum, who had signed Tazeem on a promotional contract just weeks earlier, can today announce the creation of the Ali Tazeem Trophy, an annual award that will be presented to the winner of a carefully chosen domestic fight between two young fighters that embody the skills, dedication and values of Tazeem. 

The trophy will be presented for the first time to the winner of one of British boxing’s most highly anticipated fights when super bantamweight stars Jack Bateson and Shabaz Masoud, who both knew Ali, clash at Probellum Sheffield, on November 11, in a British title eliminator. 

Sam Jones, Head of Talent Relations at Probellum, said: “There is not a day that goes by when I do not think of Ali.  He was a brilliantly talented and wonderful young man, with his whole life, both inside and outside of ring, ahead of him.

“Ali has an amazing family and Probellum wanted to make sure this special fighter is always at the forefront of our minds, and so we have created the Ali Tazeem Trophy.

“Even as an amateur, Ali represented excellence, excitement, skills and so much potential; he was one of this country’s most outstanding prospects, and we want this Trophy to be awarded to rising UK stars who do something extra special.

“The winner of Jack vs Shabaz on November 11 will do just that.  They are two of the country’s best young fighters, they are putting it all on the line and this will be a breakout night for one of them. I can’t think of a better fight, anywhere in the UK, for the inaugural Ali Tazeem Trophy to be presented.” 

Toheed Tazeem, Ali’s father, said: “I’m lost for words, this means the world to me and my family.  Thank-you to Sam, and Probellum, for keeping my son’s legacy alive.” 

To keep up to date with the latest news on Probellum Sheffield sign up to our newsletter or follow Probellum on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.     

You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter.  

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Probellum Used with permission.

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

Schedule Update

 

We would like to let our readers know that a column discussing some of the Boxing events that took place on October 15th will be released here on the website on Sunday, October 23rd. In the interim, any content that is sent in from promoters, networks, and others involved in the sport of Boxing will be made available as normal. 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  

Former World Champion DeMarcus Corley Returns Oct 29th In Tennessee

 

Credit: Majestic Raven Entertainment

Press Release: October 15, 2022 By Majestic Raven Entertainment – HOUSTON, Texas- Champions Enterprise HUB City Promotions presented by

Boxing Promoter Lamont Ingram will showcase an amateur and

professional boxing card featuring former world champion Demarcus

“amateur and professional boxing card featuring former world champion

Demarcus “Chop Chop” Corely in the main event.  The card is scheduled

to take place on October 29th in Jackson, Tennesse at the Champs Event

Center. Promoter Lamont Ingram wants to bring entertainment to boxing

fans by featuring established professionals and local amateurs. “I

wanted to do a boxing show that was good for professionals looking to

continue their career and non-professionals wanting a career.” Says

Ingram. “It's really important that you get boxing fans, amateurs, and

professionals in one building for boxing.”

 

The highlight of the event will be former World Boxing Organization

Junior Welterweight champion Demarcus Corely in 6 rounds of action.

Corely who has been in the ring with such former champions Viktor

Postol, Marcos Maidana, Miguel Cotto, and Floyd Mayweather is exiting

about his return to the ring for the first time since 2021. “I'm happy

to be getting back in the ring this year and staying active.” Says

Corely. “I have been in the ring for over two decades and the desire

to fight has never left me. I look forward to being in Tennessee.  

It's always a good thing to be around young boxers and amateurs who

want to go pro. Keeps you young.”

 

Doors open at 5pm and amateur bouts start at 6pm with professional

bouts scheduled to start at 8pm.

 

About the event

 

HUB City Fight Night is a fundraising event for local programs

supporting assistance for At-Risk children and other disadvantaged

populations in the community. This event is in partnership with

Champion Enterprises,  a Tennessee-based boxing promotional company.

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Majestic Raven Entertainment Used with permission.

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

October 15, 2022 To Be A Full Day For Boxing Fans

 

In addition to the Heavyweight bout between former WBC Heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder and former European Heavyweight champion Robert Helenius, a bout that was previously covered here in preview on The Boxing Truth®, Saturday, October 15, 2022 will feature much more for Boxing fans. Firstly, on the undercard of the Wilder-Helenius bout at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY that can be seen here in the United States on Fox Sports Pay-Per-View as well as on digital combat sports streaming network and pay-per-view platform FITE, will be a bout in the 168lb. Super-Middleweight division between former world champions Caleb Plant and Anthony Dirrell.

 

Some may call this a “Crossroads Fight” for both men. As some may recall, Plant was last in the ring in  November of last year when he lost his unbeaten record and IBF Super-Middleweight world championship in a unification bout with Saul “Canelo” Alvarez for the Undisputed world championship in the division. Although Plant would be stopped by Alvarez in eleven rounds, he did make a solid account of himself in defeat. Much like Deontay Wilder, Plant now looks to rebuild and the first step in that process will come in the form of former WBC world champion Anthony Dirrell. Dirrell, a veteran of thirty-eight professional fights, has also been looking to get back into position to fight for a world title and will come into this bout unbeaten in his last two fights having a draw and a win to his ledger in those bouts since suffering a knockout loss at the hands of David Benavidez in September 2019.

 

Although the story at least going into this fight will be one fighter looking to bounce back from the first loss of his career going against a fighter looking to continue building momentum, what this will come down to in the eyes of this observer could be who will be able to dictate the combat. What we have here is an encounter between two fighters who can do a little bit of everything. Two boxer/punchers that are capable of scoring a knockout should an opportunity arise and are also capable of Boxing to a decision victory.

 

While it may be logical to expect that Plant may want to make a statement in his first fight back, it may be wise to implement a tactical approach here as Dirrell has sixteen more bouts in his career compared to him and has scored knockouts in twenty-five of those bouts compared to Plant’s twelve knockouts in his twenty-one career wins. While this will likely be viewed as an advantage by some in Dirrell’s favor, one aspect that normally works in Plant’s favor is his lateral movement and ability to use angles.

 

 In his fight against Saul Alvarez, his movement and ability to attack Alvarez from various angles did for a time particularly early in the fight bring Plant success. As they bout went on however, Alvarez was able to put consistent pressure on Plant and gradually broke him down with body punches in addition to what he was able to land to his head.

 

Dirrell likely saw that fight and will likely be looking to implement a similar approach in his own way. What he needs to keep in mind is that Alvarez himself had trouble with Plant throughout that fight and it was largely his consistency in how he approached Plant that led to his success in the middle and late rounds and ultimately to his victory over him. Dirrell must also keep in mind that Plant does have quick hands and the ability to attack in spurts. If he is able to find success against him early, he must not get complacent and allow Plant any openings. Plant is the type of fighter that can take advantage of lulls throughout a fight and Dirrell needs to be aware of that.

 

As is the case for pretty much any fighter in the Super-Middleweight and 175lb. Light-Heavyweight divisions, the end goal for both fighters is likely an encounter with Saul Alvarez. With Alvarez maintaining his position as Undisputed world champion in the division, despite being shelved with an injury to his left hand following his third bout with Gennady Golovkin, this bout will likely amount to an audition among the potential opponents for Alvarez once he heals and is able to return to competition.

 

The Plant-Dirrell bout is not however, the only bout outside of Wilder-Helenius that will likely draw the interest of Boxing fans throughout the day on October 15^th. Two events will be taking place outside of the United States that also have intrigue. First, at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, England the highly anticipated Women’s world championship unification doubleheader featuring Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall meeting for the Undisputed Women's Middleweight championship of the world and a Jr. Lightweight unification bout between undefeated WBO/IBF world champion Mikaela Mayer and WBC/IBO world champion  Alycia Baumgardner, which can be seen here in the United States on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+.

 

The card, which was scheduled to take place on September 10th, was delayed due to the passing of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8^th as the United Kingdom entered a period of mourning, which suspended many activities including sports.

 

While all four fighters were in Manchester and participating in fight week activities including the pre-fight press conference prior to the Queen’s passing, an obvious question as these bouts near taking place is what affect if any will the one month delay have on the fighters.

 

The Shields-Marshall unification bout is one of the most anticipated fights throughout the entire sport. Two undefeated world champions putting their respective portions of a world championship on the line to unify and determine one champion alone is enough to draw interest even amongst casual fans, but this fight also has bad blood between the champions attached to it.

 

This stems from the meeting the two had as amateurs in May 2012 where Marshall scored a four round decision over Shields, in what was the only defeat Shields has suffered in a Boxing ring in a career that has seen her win two Olympic Gold medals as an amateur and win world titles in three weight divisions as a professional including briefly becoming the Undisputed Super-Middleweight world champion.

 

Obviously, the bad feelings between the two has simmered in the decade since that bout including a heated exchange between the two in a post-fight interview following Shields victory in February of this year over Ema Kozin. While some may view such an exchange “Pull Apart” as a means of promotion, this observer was vocal in saying that it was a negative for the women of the sport to see such an incident particularly when the sport is taking advantage of unprecedented exposure and long overdue recognition for the female fighters in the sport.

 

The view of yours truly notwithstanding, the fight between the two, this time as professionals appears to be an even fight. Shields has been splitting time between Boxing and competing in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) where she has a 1-1 record currently.

 

 Although one should not compare Boxing with the sport of MMA as it is two different sports and require different attributes, it is nevertheless interesting that someone of Shields’ caliber would be willing to venture into a different sport while still at the top of her game as a boxer. Given the demands and tone each sport requires to compete at a high level, a question done might ask is how will this impact her preparation for this fight particularly because it comes against not only the only boxer to defeat her as an amateur or professorial, but also someone that has proven to be very dangerous as a professional. Marshall has scored knockouts in ten of her twelve pro fights and will enter into this fight having scored eight consecutive knockouts.

 

At her best, Claressa Shields is a compact combination puncher that often overwhelms and out works her opponents with activity. While Shields only has two knockouts in her twelve career wins as a professional, she has on occasion shown punching power in her own right. Wisdom would suggest that she look to out box Marshall over the course of the scheduled ten round bout. Even though you can never dismiss the possibility of a knockout for either fighter and keeping in mind that Claressa Shields has yet to really be in danger in a fight to this point, sure must be wary of Marshall’s power because she has shown the ability to end a fight with one punch before. Despite the bad blood between the two, Shields must be tactical and not allow her emotion to dictate how she approaches this fight.

 

For Marshall, her fight plan should be looking for a way to limit Shields’ offense over the course of the fight. While one could make an argument based on statistics that she might have the edge in terms of power, Marshall must not head hunt and should be tactical as well, but try not to leave Shields openings. Marshall must dictate how the fight is to be fought in other to be successful.

 

Although the winner of Shields-Marshall will have status as Undisputed world champion in the Middleweight division, the co-main event could lead to an undisputed championship fight for the winner in 2023 in the 130lb. Jr. Lightweight division.

 

The fight between world champions Mikaela Mayer and Alycia Baumgardner presents an interesting clash of styles. Mayer is a solid boxer/puncher that uses lateral movement and hand speed to get the upper hand on her opponents. Unbeaten in seventeen pro bouts with five knockouts, Mayer has gradually been working her way towards unifying the division by successfully adding the IBF crown to the WBO championship she won in October 2020 with a ten round unanimous decision over Ewa Brodnicka. In the fight where she added the IBF championship, Mayer scored a ten round unanimous decision over Maiva Hamadouche in November of last year. While Mayer has not faced much resistance on her path towards an undisputed championship bout, her opponent Alycia Baumgardner could prove to be a dangerous obstacle in that path. Baumgardner won her portions of the World Jr. Lightweight championship by scoring a one punch knockout over previously undefeated world champion Terri Harper in November of last year a knockout where Harper appeared to be out cold on her feet. Since that victory, which some called an upset, Baumgardner successfully defended her crown in April by scoring a ten round unanimous decision over Edith Mattysee.

 

Despite her rise to the top of the division coming quickly and as a surprise to some, Baumgardner has shown obviously that she does have the punching power and credentials that should be taken seriously by fans and more importantly her opponents. This could potentially be a close fight depending on who is able to dictate how the fight is fought. Mayer must rely on what has gotten her in this position and box Baumgardner by being a tactician. Baumgardner meanwhile needs to find a way to cut the ring off and limit Mayer’s ability to move.

 

Although Mayer likely has an edge in regard to hand speed, she has not been put in a position thus far in her career where her ability to take a punch from a fighter with significant punching power has been tested. If Baumgardner is able to dictate the tempo of the combat, Mayer may well be tested in what has the appearance of a close and competitive bout at least on paper.

 

Following the Women’s world championship unification doubleheader, ESPN+ continues their Boxing programming of the day by presenting the rematch for the Undisputed Lightweight championship of the world between undefeated world champion Devin Haney and the former champion George Kambosos. A contractually mandated rematch that will take place in the country  as their first encounter Melbourne, Australia.

 

In their first bout in June of this year, Haney thoroughly out boxed the previously unbeaten Kambosos over twelve rounds to win the Undisputed championship in what was a pro-Kambosos environment before the champion’s home country.

 

Although this rematch was pre-ordained per contractual terms for the original bout and there remains a possibility that there could be a third bout between the two per the same contractual terms should Kambosos regain the championship, done questioned the wisdom of the former champion for exercising his rematch clause.

 

This is due to how the first fight was fought where Haney was simply too quick and too elusive for Kambosos. While some may say that it was a matter of the adage of “Styles Make Fights,”  the onus is on the former champion to show that he had a bad night at the office and this fight will be different.

 

How can Kambosos accomplish this? It is certainly easier said than done, but he needs to bring the fight to Haney from the outset and apply pressure on him. The difference in hand speed in the first fight was clear and some might be wondering how Kambosos can combat that speed this time around.

 

This observer is a firm believer that one of the best ways to try to negate a fighter’s hand speed is through timing. Although keeping in mind that it is easier said than done, Kambosos has to find a way as he is applying pressure on Haney to make the champion miss and counter his offense. This was accomplished by former world champion Jorge Linares, who was able to badly stun Haney in the closing seconds of the tenth round of their fight in May 2021. To date, this was the only time Haney has been hurt in his career. While he was able to recover and go on to win a convincing unanimous decision, it did show how an opponent needs to approach Haney.

 

Kambosos must find the balance of applying pressure, being more aggressive, but doing so tactically and trying to bait Haney into creating openings for him to exploit if he wants to be successful in this fight. Simply put, he cannot try to box with someone who might prove to be a master boxer by the time his career is over. He must force Haney into his role of fight.

 

The task for the champion going into his first title defense is to try and repeat a near-perfect performance that he was able to produce in the first fight. Haney must however, not be complacent and must be prepared for any adjustments that Kambosos might make this time around. While both fighters are likely going to be moving up to the 140lb. Jr. Welterweight division in the not too distant future, there remains unfinished business and we will see if Kambosos can find a way to force a chapter three in this rivalry.

 

As tends to be the case especially as the sport of Boxing moves more in the direction of digital streaming on terms of how it is broadcast to the public, this day of Boxing truly offers a little something for every type of Boxing fan. How October 15, 2022 will be remembered in the history book of Boxing however, remains to be seen.

 

“And That's The Boxing Truth. “

 

Wilder vs. Helenius (Featuring Plant vs. Dirrell) takes place on Saturday, October 15th at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. The fight can be seen in the United States on Fox Sports Pay-Per-View beginning at 9PM ET/6PM PT for $74.99. In addition to being streamed on the Fox Sports app on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices/Smart TVs, the event will also be streamed in the United States and globally on digital combat sports streaming network and pay-per-view platform FITE in addition to also being available via traditional cable/satellite pay-per-view throughout the United States and Canada.

 

To order and stream on the Fox Sports app download the Fox Sports app on your preferred device and follow the ordering instructions or visit www.FoxSports.com/PPV for ordering information.

 

To order and stream on the FITE app, download the FITE app on mobile, tablet or connected streaming devices/Smart TVs, or Click the following link to order and for instructions on how and where to download the FITE app: https://www.fite.tv/watch/wilder-vs-helenius/2pbyb/

 

Shields vs. Marshall /Mayer vs. Baumgardner takes place Saturday, October 15^th at Manchester Arena in Manchester, England. The full card can be seen in the United States on digital subscription sports streaming network ESPN+ beginning at 2:30PM ET/11:30AM PT. ESPN+ is available through the ESPN app on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices, platforms, and Smart TVs. For more information about ESPN+ including schedules, to subscribe, and where and how to access the ESPN app please visit: www.ESPNPlus.com.

 

Haney vs. Kambosos 2 takes places Saturday, October 15^th at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne, Australia. The card can also be seen in the United States on ESPN+ beginning at 8PM ET/5PM PT. The main event will also be simulcast on the main ESPN cable network across cable and satellite providers with a scheduled start time of 10:30PM ET/7:30PM PT.

 

*Fights and Cards Subject To Change 

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NAOYA INOUE VS PAUL BUTLER IN DECEMBER FOR UNDISPUTED BANTAMWEIGHT TITLE

Press Release: October 13, 2022 By Probellum – LONDON, OCTOBER 13 – Paul Butler goes in search of boxing immortality in December when he faces Naoya Inoue for the undisputed world bantamweight title. 

Credit: Probellum 

The WBO champion tackles Japanese hero Inoue, at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, on Tuesday, December 13 on a historic night for the sport, promoted by Ohashi Promotion and Teiken Promotions in association with Probellum.Inoue holds the IBF, WBA and WBC belts and wants to clean up the division before moving up in weight – but two-time world champion Butler holds the missing piece of the puzzle.

And the fighter from Ellesmere Port, in the UK, heads to the Land of the Rising Sun, fully intent on becoming boxing’s first undisputed bantamweight champion in half a century and scoring one of the biggest away wins by a British fighter ever.Paul Butler said: “I’ve been boxing for over 20 years and all the successes and set-backs have led me here, to the biggest fight of my career, with the biggest prize in the sport on offer.

“I am under no illusions as to the size of the task that faces me, but I have been going to bed dreaming of becoming the undisputed bantamweight champion of the world. Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum, said: “It does not get any bigger than this, but Paul Butler is ready to carve out history, cause a seismic upset and return home as the undisputed world bantamweight champion.

“We all appreciate how good Naoya Inoue is, we have seen it repeatedly, but the people who really know Paul, know what he is made of and the greater the challenge, the greater his performance will be.”

To keep up to date with the latest news on Butler vs Inoue sign up to our newsletter or follow Probellum on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.    

You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter. 

“Inoue is a phenomenal fighter but not one person should be underestimating me, my skills, or my resolve. I am going to Japan to write my name into the history of our sport.”

Material and Photo Courtesy of: Probellum Used with permission.

For more information about Probellum please visit: www.probellum.com.

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

Wilder-Helenius: The Comeback Begins

For many fighters that go on to become world champions throughout their careers, there comes a point where they enter a stage known simply as “The Comeback.” While it is a period that a fighter can find his or herself in for several reasons/circumstances, more often than not, “The Comeback” represents the start of a rebuilding process following a setback. In the case of former longtime WBC Heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder, the recent past has seen him suffer two notable setbacks.

This observer is referring to his two losses in his second and third fights against Tyson Fury in 2020 and 2021 respectively. Although the third encounter between the two was regarded as one of the best and dramatic Heavyweight championship fights in several years, Wilder did suffer two beatings in those fights and it was fair to question whether the former champion, who reigned as WBC king from 2015 until his first loss to Fury in 2020, would fight again. It was after all a fair question to ask after the punishment he sustained in those two bouts.

While that certainly can not be ignored as Boxing is a combat sport and fighters do risk their lives every time they compete, it may be easy for some to forget that prior to those setbacks, Deontay Wilder was firmly established as one of the sport’s feared “Knockout Artists,” having compiled forty-one knockouts in his forty-two career wins registering a career knockout percentage of over 91%. It can also be easy for some to overlook that in addition to his lengthy title reign in terms of time, Wilder also had one of the most active reigns as champion in terms of title defenses in the modern era of the sport in the five years as champion as he successfully defended his title ten times.

The loss of his crown in 2020, the legal hurdles he had to clear to get his contractually stipulated return bout in what was the third bout with Fury last year also likely took a toll on him in addition to what happened to him in those fights. After a year out of competition, Wilder now prepares to return to the ring as he will face longtime Heavyweight contender and former European Heavyweight champion Robert Helenius on October 15th at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

The fight, which can be seen here in the United States on Fox Sports Pay-Per-View, has one central question that surrounds it. What kind of Deontay Wilder will we see inside the ring?

At his best, Wilder is a devastating puncher that is more than capable of ending a fight quickly should the opportunity arise. It is important to keep in mind however, that Wilder is attempting now to bounce back from two brutal knockout losses. Beyond the obvious question regarding what did those two fights take out of him physically, it is equally important to question what effect those bouts had on him mentally.

Although this observer is a firm believer in the saying that the biggest enemy of a fighter is inactivity, the year Wilder has spent out of the ring probably did him more good than harm. Beyond giving him time to reflect and decide whether he wanted to continue with his career, the year off also provided time for him to heal physically. What those two fights did to him psychologically however, will be as compelling as the question of what those fights took out of him from a physical standpoint.

While Wilder has never been regarded for his Boxing ability or technique, one possible change we could see is how he approaches his opposition. In the third fight with Tyson Fury, Wilder nearly brought an end to the fight by dropping Fury twice in round four. Although frankly I was surprised that Fury was able to survive the attack Wilder was able to dish out in that round as many fighters under similar circumstances would likely not have been able to survive, Wilder was not able to build on what he was able to do in that round. This in addition to suffering punishment himself in being dropped three times throughout the fight in what was a very grueling battle, ultimately worked against Wilder leading to his second defeat to Fury.

One could suggest that a tactical mistake that Wilder made was that he did not pace himself and perhaps thought he would be able to rely on his punching power after what he was able to do to Fury in the fourth round of that fight. It will be interesting to see if Wilder will be more tactical and more aware of pacing himself going forward if a situation occurs where an opponent is able to survive multiple knockdowns where he does not burn himself out over the course of a fight and if he will take more of a boxer’s approach rather than relying solely on his punching power.

Wilder’s opponent for his first step on the comeback trail may prove to be a sturdy test in the form of former European Heavyweight champion Robert Helenius. At one point during the era of the division that was dominated by Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko, Helenius was viewed as one of the potential fighters that could have succeeded them as a potential central figure of the Heavyweight division.

Despite entering into this fight with an impressive record of 31-3, with 20 Knockouts as well as his status as a former European Heavyweight champion, some might say that Helenius has not fulfilled his potential. Much like Wilder, Helenius has gone through some setbacks in his career, but in recent times has gone through a resurgence including two knockout wins over highly touted rising prospect Adam Kowacki, who was unbeaten at the time Helenius fought him the first time in March 2020.

Although Robert Helenius has credentials and is not someone to take lightly, there are some who feel based on the fact that Wilder and Helenius were at one time sparring partners that this fight is designed to be a soft touch for Wilder in his first fight back after two losses to Tyson Fury. While you will never be able to convince some folks that their opinion may not be accurate, the sport of Boxing and by extension all combat sports are filled with stories of fighters who initially crossed paths as sparring partners and eventually met down the line in competition.

One thing that should be advised to any fan who watches a fight between fighters who have experience sparring with each other is there is a significant difference between sparring in a gym/training camp and facing each other in a competitive fight. A reason for this is a sparring partner’s responsibility is to mirror a style that their partner will be facing in their upcoming bout and as such, there is the obvious possibility that what a fighter sees in a sparring scenario may not necessarily be the same as in competition. It will nevertheless be interesting to see if Helenius either saw something in his sparring sessions with Wilder or in Wilder’s three bouts with Tyson Fury that he might look to exploit in this fight.

As was the case with his two bouts against Adam Kowacki, Helenius is being viewed by many as the opponent for Wilder as opposed to a competitive threat to the former world champion. In terms of how he should approach this fight, Helenius needs to get the respect of Wilder early, but must be cautious in doing so. Wilder does have the type of punching power that can end a fight suddenly and even though there is possibility that Wilder may not be as willing to let his hands go as freely as he was prior to those two losses to Fury, a fighter’s power is something to always respect.

The challenge for Helenius will be to find the balance between putting Wilder under pressure and doing so with caution. Helenius is also a fighter that is not known for his Boxing ability, but he must be the one to dictate the combat here in this fight.

While this fight has the tagline of being the first step for Deontay Wilder, this will be a good gage to evaluate just how much the two losses to Tyson Fury took out of him and this fight may also serve as an indicator as to how much Wilder has left to give as a fighter. We will see if we will get those answers when Wilder meets Helenius on Saturday, October 15th

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

Wilder vs. Helenius takes place on Saturday, October 15th at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. The fight can be seen in the United States on Fox Sports Pay-Per-View beginning at 9PM ET/6PM PT for $74.99. In addition to being streamed on the Fox Sports app on mobile, tablet, and connected streaming devices/Smart TVs, the event will also be streamed in the United States and globally on digital combat sports streaming network and pay-per-view platform FITE in addition to also being available via traditional cable/satellite pay-per-view throughout the United States and Canada.

To order and stream on the Fox Sports app download the Fox Sports app on your preferred device and follow the ordering instructions or visit www.FoxSports.com/PPV for ordering information.

To order and stream on the FITE app, download the FITE app on mobile, tablet or connected streaming devices/Smart TVs, or Click the following link to order and for instructions on how and where to download the FITE app: https://www.fite.tv/watch/wilder-vs-helenius/2pbyb/

*Fight and Card Subject To Change 

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Jason Mooney Pushing For WBC Mandatory Position

Press Release: October 7, 2022 By Team Moloney – Jason Moloney is geared up to put himself in line for a third attempt at a world title, as the Australian gets set for his clash with Nawaphon Kaikanha on home soil.

Credit: DiBella Entertainment

 

The fight will pit to of the bantamweight divisions highest rated contenders against each other, with a world title opportunity likely for the winner, and ‘Mayhem’ opened up about preparations ahead of the make or break clash.

 

Moloney said, “I can’t wait to get back in there, in Melbourne, alongside my brother on one of the biggest shows of the year. Thank you as always to Tony Tolj who goes to war for us, our whole training team and of course Top Rank for standing by us and showcasing us at home once again.

 

“Training has been brilliant, it’s great to fight at home, it just pushes you on on the hard days. Fighting in a stadium in your home country with a world title fight on the horizon is what boxing is all about. I couldn’t be more up for this.”

 

Moloney features alongside brother Andrew as support to Devin Haney’s unified world title rematch with George Kambosos Jr. The all action Aussie discussed his ideals for October 16 in Melbourne.

 

The Aussie bantamweight said, “Hopefully I blast my way into a world title fight by getting a win against Kaikanha. He’s a good fighter, I’ve not overlooked him one bit and I have a job to do. I’m highly rated with the WBO and WBC and I would love to fight for one of their world titles soon.

 

“Last time out my brother Andrew both had good performances. It was a perfect night, and that’s what we’re both aiming for again, with no doubt being left in the mind of the fans watching, that we’re both going into world titles in 2023.”

Material Courtesy of: Team Moloney/Photo Courtesy of: DiBella Entertainment Used with permission.

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

Rising Chilean Junior 'La Joya' Cruzat Talks Sparring Moloney Brothers, Chile National Title

Press Release: October 4, 2022 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Rising Chilean star Junior Cruzat is set for his Chilean national title fight on October 15, with the rising featherweight standout sharing a training base with brothers Andrew and Jason Moloney.

Credit: Dragon Fire Boxing 

Cruzat has spent a portion of his camp in Australia with the highly rated pair, and he discussed the lessons he's learnt working with both brothers who feature on the undercard of George Kambosos Jr vs Devin Haney.

Cruzat said, "You learn so much working with the Moloney brothers. They are both cool guys, but in the ring they can stun you with their talent. 

"Andrew Moloney is a high level boxer, he is an incredible talent, and he has so much skill with the jab. You learn a lot about your defence but different ways to use the jab from Andrew.

"Jason is ferocious, and comes forward with great inside movement. It's great for your defence, but he has a good variety and uses angles. So that was a great experience too."

Cruzat heads into his first championship fight, as he looks to follow in the footsteps of fellow Chilean Andres Campos who is also guided by Dragon Fire Boxing.

Junior opened up about his first title challenge, "I'm excited to be in my first title fight and I believe I'm ready for this now. Training in Australia has made me stone cold in the ring, and I'm going to put on the performance of my career.

"Whether I win by knockout or on points I'm going to be the next champion of Chile and that's the bottom line. I want to thank everybody at Dragon Fire Boxing for getting me this opportunity, and I'm sure it will be the first of many titles in my career."

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. 

Andrew Moloney Looks To Shine In Melbourne

Press Release: October 4, 2022 By Team Moloney – 

Andrew Moloney is ready for the test of Norbelto Jimenez, as the Aussie stylist continues to hunt down a fight with pound for pound star Kazuto Ioka.

Credit:Mikey Williams/ Top Rank Boxing 

Moloney impressed last time out, taking out Alexander Espinoza in two rounds on the undercard of Devin Haney and George Kambosos Jr in Melbourne, and now Moloney returns to the scene of the crime as he looks to continue his good form against Jimenez.

Moloney opened up about preparation going into his next outing, coming on the undercard of Devin Haney vs George Kambosos II.

Moloney said, “I’m excited to be back and to be back at home is always special. I won my first world title in Melbourne, so it will be always be a special place in my heart. Thank you once again to Top Rank and my manager Tony Tolj who’s never failed to have mine and my brothers back for our entire career. 

“You always find a different type of motivation when you’re at home, it’s a buzz being in front of your own people. I love fighting in Australia. I’ll fight anyone anywhere, I went to Chile a few years ago, but you can’t beat fighting in front of your friends and family.”

Moloney has held the WBA version of the world super flyweight crown, and has his sights set on a dream fight against Japanese legend Kazuto Ioka. The Gold Coast native discussed his ideals for a clash with Ioka down the line. 

Moloney stated, “I’ve been vocal about my desire to fight Ioka, and it’s entirely in a respectful manner. He’s a great champion, and legend of the sport, it would be an honor to share a ring with him. 

“My focus right now is on Jimenez on October 16, and then we’ll see where we go from there and I need to keep putting on quality performances to justify those claims and show the World, Andrew Moloney will be world champion again.”

Material Courtesy of: Team Moloney/ Photo Courtesy of: Mikey Williams Top Rank Boxing Used with permission. 

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

Alex Winwood Kicks Off Pro Career With A Bang Nov. 25 At Thunderdome 40

Press Release: October 2, 2022 By Dragon Fire Boxing – Olympian Alex Winwood is launching his pro career in style, as he goes directly into state title action on his pro debut, headlining the 40th edition of Dragon Fire Boxing's iconic Thunderdome Series.

Credit: Luke Marsden 

 

Winwood was bizarrely stopped in his quest for Commonwealth glory at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, England, with the reaction to his stoppage going viral. 

 

The Australian reacted on his Olympic & Comm Games journey and opened up on turning professional. He said, "I enjoyed the amateurs and the experience of the Olympics & Comm Games representing my country with pride. I've learned as much as I can from the amateurs and now it's time to turn to the professional ranks.

 

"The Olympics & Commonwealth games was a great experience despite how it ended for me. I've got a lot of attention from that, but I wanted the attention to be for winning a medal, not for being stopped in a strange fashion.

 

"I want to head into the pro ranks with all that behind me and right the wrongs. I was one of the best amateurs on the planet and I want to recreate that in the paid code."  

 

Winwood goes straight into title action, with his management at Dragon Fire Boxing headed up by Tony Tolj wanting to progress the well traveled amateur standout in quick fashion. 

 

The Western Australian native discussed his road to the pro raniks from a preparation standpoint. 

 

Winwood stated, "I'm delighted to be with Tony Tolj and Dragon Fire Boxing, they've got a plan and they know what I want, and I think starting with a fight for a state title is the right move. I'm excited and I'm really motivated to put on a show.

 

"I've worked with both Moloney brothers over the last year and they've prepared me for what's ahead in the professional ranks. I've learned a lot from the Moloney's and that type of education is what I need to become a world champion.

 

"I'm happy I'm starting my journey in Metro City, Perth in WA. There's nothing like fighting at home, and I can't wait to put on a show.

Material Courtesy of: Dragon Fire Boxing / Photo Courtesy of: Luke Marsden 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. 

Schedule Resumption Update Following Hurricane Ian

We would like to let our readers know following a pause in the normal schedule due to having to evacuate due to Hurricane Ian, our regular schedule will resume on Wednesday, October 12th. While material will cover the upcoming Heavyweight bout between former WBC Heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder and longtime Heavyweight contender Robert Helenius, we would also like to inform readers that content originally planned for the final week of September and the first two weeks of October will be covered as part of a special feature that will close out the month of October.

In the interim, any content that is sent in for release between now and October 12th from promoters, networks, and others involved in the sport of Boxing will be made available as normal. We want to thank readers for both their patience and understanding during what was frankly a scary time and subsequently led to an unplanned and unwanted pause in our normal schedule and we do apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. Stay tuned. 

“And That’s The Boxing Truth.”

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