Joshua stops brave Takam in 10.

In an eventful set of affairs, unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua 19-0 (19 Ko's) succesfully defended his trio of titles with a 10th round stoppage over an extremely game Carlos Takam 35-3-1 (27 Ko's) at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, tonight.. Takam, a late replacement for Kubrat Pulev, came with ambition, and went way above the call of duty in a bout that had, cuts, headbuts and cameos of intrigue.. The shorter adopted Frenchman boxed cautiously in the early rounds but drew blood in the second, damaging the champions nose with an accidental head-but. As blood ran from the injury an impatient Joshua upped the tempo. In round 4 Joshua dropped the challenger briefly who was now struggling to see through a severely cut right eye.. Takam looked completely unphased by the occasion, and besides the cuts fought with tremendous bravery, slipping many of Joshua's telegraphed shots and offering returns of his own.. Between most rounds the ringside physician inspected the injury, and although visibly atrocious, was not deemed threatening enough to cause a permanent issue to the fighter.. By round 7 it was evident who was in complete control, but the interest was purely in how far the gallant challenger could push himself, in a fight that he initially looked beyond him.. Joshua was finding the mark by round 9 and although Takam was responding with shots of his own, Anthony appeared to have no respect for his power.. After another long inspection of the eye, round 10 started with Carlos closing the distance and attempting to out-hustle Joshua, Anthony quickly adapted and fired a flurry of shots inside, as a final hook caught Takam flush, the Challenger staggered back, still in control of his faculties, when referee Phil Edwards intervened to call it off.. The stoppage appeared unfair to the brave showing from Takam, although it did appear as though the end was near..
Takam remains the second only man to push AJ towards the championship rounds and definitely deserves more credit for his glorious showing.. Anthony, who did look flat in comparison will take a lot from this experience, a late change of opponent and nose damage early in the bout are more boxes ticked in the seasoning department..

Whyte outscores Helenius, picks up WBC silver belt.

Former British heavyweight champion Dillian Whyte 21-1 (16 Ko's) picked up the vacant WBC Silver title by outpointing Robert Helenius 25-1 (16 Ko's) at the Principality in Cardiff tonight.. Helenius, a former two time European champion started fast, shaking Whyte up in the opener, yet fizzled out as the fight wore on.. Whyte maintained a steady pace throughout and looked extremely competent at times, yet lacked the ability to step up a gear on a occasion when it was important to make a statement.. Helenius fought to survive for the final 6 sessions and waved his right hand around as if it was injured.. Whyte never looked like closing the show but appeared content to leave the ring with the W.. Helenius is a lifetime away from his days as Sauerlands red hot prospect, only toughness and ring savvy saw him through tonight.. Whyte has been noted as a possible opponent for WBC Champion Wilder next, although common sense from this bout tells me that he needs more work..

Scores were.... 119-109.. 119-109.. 118-110

Katie Taylor picks up vacant WBA title in 7th fight.

5 time world amateur champion and 2016 Olympic Gold medalist Katie Taylor 6-0 (4 Ko's) arrested the vacant WBA female lightweight title away from former 3 weight champion Anahi Ester Sanchez 17-2 (9 Ko's) of Argentina with a unanimous decision on Saturday night at the Principality in Cardiff, Wales in only her 7th pro outing.. Taylor dropped the tough South American early with a body shot and consistently had Sanchez on the back foot throughout most of the bout. Sanchez did have a few moments, but lacked the devil that was required to deny the Irish girl her big moment.. Sanchez failed weight yesterday and had to relinquish the title, with only Taylor allowed to win the vacant belt..
Sanchez showed her toughness but was shutout by the more accurate and driven Taylor..

All scorecards were 99-90 in favour of Taylor.

Khalid Yafai makes first defence of WBA title with unanimous decision over Sho Ishida

Birminghams WBA Super Flyweight champion Khalid Yafai 22-0 (14 Ko's) successfully defended his title tonight at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff with a unanimous 12 round decision over tough undefeated challenger Sho Ishida 24-0 (13 Ko's) of Osaka Japan.. Yafai controlled the tempo of the fight but found the taller challenger a tough nut to crack.. Ishida had his moments but was unable to sustain an effective enough assault to steal the title.. Yafai showed a measure of maturity, but occasionally resorted to headhunting in an attempt to break the spirit of Ishida.. Yafai is now looking to an American appearance in the new year, in an effort to heighten his profile overseas with a potential match with Roman Gonzales a possibility.

Scores were, 118 110.. 116-112.. 116-112

Defiant Buglioni overwhelms brave Craig Richards to make second defence of British title.

In a second defence of his British light heavyweight title, former world title challenger Frank Buglioni 20-2-1 (15 Ko's) overwhelmed unbeaten challenger Craig Richards 10-0 (4 Ko's) over 12, in a highly entertaining fight at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff tonight.. Buglioni started off strongly, in an attempt to stamp his authority on former sparring partner Richards, forcing the challenger into survival mode for the first couple of sessions... In the third Richards began to relax and pick some sneaky counters of his own, making Buglioni appear white mechanical. Buglioni always maintained a lead, but a lack of head movement and punch variety, saw Richards still hanging around into the later rounds. Buglioni who was cut from round 3 onwards, continued to outgun Craig, coming within an ace of a late stoppage with his consistent pressure .. The brave Richards deserved to complete the distance but looked heavily weathered at the bell..

Judges Howard Foster and Steve Grey scored it 117-111
With Victor Loughlan scoring it 116-113..

Joshua v Takam weigh in results from Cardiff, Wales.

Weights from Cardiff, Wales...

Anthony Joshua 254.25 v Carlos Takam 235.5
(WBA and IBF heavyweight titles)

Khalid Yafai 114.5 v Sho Ishida 114.5
(WBA super flyweight title)

Dillian Whyte 247.5 v Robert Helenius 248.5
(vacant WBC Silver heavyweight title)

Frank Buglioni 174.5 v Craig Richards 173
(British light heavyweight title)

From the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales.
Promoted by Eddie Hearn and Matchroom.
Broadcast by Sky Box Office and Showtime.

Olympian Joe Joyce debut tomorrow as he takes on Ian Lewison over 10 at Indigo.

Tomorrow night at Indigo, O2 London, Hayemaker promotions unveil their latest Profesional addition, the accomplished former amateur champion Joe Joyce.. However the 6 foot 6, 32 year old isn't dipping his toe in with a 4 rounder against an Eastern European with a sketchy record, Hayemaker have faith enough to debut Joyce in a 10 round baptism of fire against a man who challenged for the British title in only his last outing..

Ian Lewison 12-3-1 (8 Ko's) is 36 years old and only last October challenged Dillian Whyte for the British title losing his game effort in the 10th. Prior to that he was coming off a 6 fight winning streak, ending with a trip to Nanning, China last June to upset 7-0 Zhiyu Wu to claim the Vacant WBO Asia Pacific title..

Amongst Ians victories there are respectable stoppage wins over Timo Hoffman, Dorian Darch and Tom Dallas.. Lewison did lose a points decision to Colin Kenna back in 2011, and drop a split verdict to Derrick Rossy back in the 2013 Prizefighter tourney, but is still definitely a huge test for any debutant..

Joyce is highly accomplished, in 2012 he was ABA super heavyweight champion, in 2013 he was a European championship bronze medalist, in 2014 he was a Commonwealth games gold medalist, in 2015 he was a European games gold medalist and in 2016 picked up an Olympic Silver medal in Rio, narrowly missing out to Tony Yoka of France. In addition to this Joe has been mixing it in outstanding company in the WSOB, boxing guys like Oleksandr Usyk and Ivan Dychko routinely, along with high level sparring with Anthony Joshua and more recently Bermaine Stiverne. Joyce isn't a baby and although he is technically taking his first steps as a paid fighter, he's probably a closer equivalent to a seasoned pro considering the kind of amateur grounding he has had.. Either way to jump from 3 to 10, and throw off your vest against a live name, is a huge milestone.

Lewison v Joyce will be broadcast live on Dave, Friday 20th October.

Gabriel Rosado meets Glen Tapia tomorrow at Monte Carlo, Las Vegas.

Tomorrow night at the Monte Carlo, Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Golden Boy promotions are hosting a 6 fight card headlined by former 2 time world Middleweight title challenger Gabriel Rosado 23-11, who takes on tough Glen Tapia 23-4, in a ten round bout made at 160.. Rosado who lost his two world title attempts at the hands of Peter Quillin and Gennady Golovkin back in 2013 is coming off two further defeats, a loss to Willie Monroe jr back in 2016 and a defeat to Martin Murray earlier this year both on points.. Tapia last won a fight back in 2015 and has been stopped twice out his last three outings, all defeats at the hands of Jason Quigley, Michel Soro and David Lemieux..

The undercard is headed by Mexican Welterweight Alejandro Barrera 29-3, who faces Keandre Gibson 17-1-1, over 10..

At Super Featherweight, Bekman Soylybayev 11-0 of Kazakhstan meets Fernando Vargas 32-12-3 for the WBC international title over 10..

Las Vegan, Randy Moreno Ochoa 9-1, meets Jesus Aguinaga 5-6-2, over six at Super Featherweight..

Las Vegas Super Featherweight Francisco Esparza 6-0-1, and Los Angeles based Panamanian, light heavyweight Israel Duffus 15-4, both meet Opponents yet to be announced over 6..

Promoter is Golden Boy.
Host is Monte Carlo Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas Nv..
Broadcaster : ESPN2.

2016 Olympic Champion Tony Yoka makes it 2-0 in Paris.

Tony Yoka, the 6 foot 7 inch Super-heavyweight gold medalist from the Rio games made it a successful 2-0 (1 Ko) at the Zenith de Paris, in Paris, France on Saturday night.. The 25 year old Yoka outpointed the durable Californian Jonathon Rice 7-3-1 (4 Ko's) over six impressive rounds.. Yoka is best remembered for controversially outpointing our own Joe Joyce in the 90Kg+ final of the 2016 games (Joe himself preparing to propel himself into the paid ranks against the experienced Ian Lewison this coming weekend..) Rice having his 11th outing has never been stopped, including a loss to the debuting California based Irish prospect Con Sheehan last year in LA..

Scores were: 60-54, 59-55 and 58-56 all in favour of the Frenchman.

October 28th.. Anthony Joshua v Carlos Takam.. Pulev injured.

In a dramatic turn of events, Anthony Joshua's opponent for his bout on 28th October in Cardiff has pulled out of the match due to a shoulder injury.. Rumours were rife this afternoon surrounding the situation, only to be verified later this evening by Eddie Hearn..

"I received a call from Kalle Sauerland late afternoon, who informed me that Pulev had injured his shoulder and may be ruled out of the fight - this was later confirmed by his doctor," Hearn Confirmed..

Pulev 25-1 (13 Ko's) was the IBF mandatory challenger and according to the rules of that governing body, in this type of event, the next ranked contender numerically has to be offered the opportunity..

So with 70.000 tickets already sold for the bout at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Anthony Joshua now faces tough 36 year old French based Cameroonian, Carlos Takam 35-3-1 (27 Ko's.)
Takam, who once held the very lightly regarded WBF title has competed at the highest level, losing on the two most prominent occasions, to Alexander Povetkin in 2014, and to the now WBO champion Joseph Parker last year in a very close affair..
Takam has remained active since the Parker loss, boxing twice this year already, picking up the IBF intercontinental title with a 4th round stoppage of Marcin Rekowski in January then making swift work of Ivica Bacurin in 2, last June.

Hearn:
"When the Pulev fight was announced I made a deal with Takam's team to begin camp and be on standby for this fight."
"When I called them this evening they were overjoyed and good to go. It's a difficult position for AJ - having prepared meticulously for the style and height of Pulev, he now faces a completely different style and challenge in Takam.
"This hasn't happened in his career before but he is ready for all comers on 28 October."

Anthony is making the first defence of his unified titles that he won last April. His original mandatory Pulev was never a match that was going to set the world alight, Takam is a little more of an aggressive fighter who may make for better viewing. Pulev was allegedly offered Joshua numerous times throughout the last 3 years and always turned the bout down for a variety of reasons, I was always of the opinion that it wasn't a fight that the Bulgarian fancied..

Sharif Bogere headlines at Sam's Town Las Vegas, October 21st.

Saturday 21st October 2017, Mayweather promotions in association with Sams town will feature professional boxing from Sam's Town Gambling hall in Las Vegas Nv..

Las Vegas based Ugandan Sharif Bogere (29-1) heads the cast as he takes on tough Jose Luis Rodriguez (22-10) in a lightweight 10 rounder..

In a Welterweight special attraction Cameron Kreal (12-12-2) takes on the durable Mexican based Japanese national, Shoki Sakai (23-7-1) who is coming off an upset win over highly ranked Ashley Theophane.

The undercard features an array of promising undefeated TMT fighters,
Including..

Las Vegas based Nigerian Middleweight, Oluwafemi Oyeleye (3-0)

Michigan based Jordanian Featherweight, Ahmed Majed Mahmood (7-0-1)

Las Vegas based Uzbek Welterweight, Sanjarbek Rakhmanov (8-0-1)

Las Vegas Lightweight, Rolando Romero (2-0)

And finally the Las Vegas based British former female Olympian and amateur world champion Savannah Marshall (1-0) at Super Middleweight..

All bouts sanctioned by the Nevada State Athletic commission.

Promoter is Leonard Ellerbe.

Venue is Sam's Town Las Vegas Nv.

Dillian Whyte meets Robert Helenius, October 28th in Cardiff.

Dillian Whyte has finally secured an opponent for an appearance on the Joshua v Pulev card in Cardiff on October 28th.. The WBC #4 will face tough Robert Helenius 25-1 (16 Ko's) for the WBC Silver title. Whyte, 21-1 (16 Ko's) is extremely grateful to Robert for taking the fight on a fortnights notice and has been nothing but complimentary of the former European Champion since hearing of the match..

"It’s been a very frustrating few months trying to get someone to fight me,” said Whyte. “I thank Robert for stepping up and in two weeks’ time we will fight for the WBC Silver title in Cardiff. I love to fight and I’m looking forward to being back in the ring, getting the victory and moving on to challenge for the World Heavyweight title.”

Helenius has put together 4 victories since his April 2016 knockout loss to Johann Duhaupas, most recently stopping Evgeny Orlov in June.. Prior to Duhaupas, Robert put together a 22 fight, 7 year unbeaten streak which in 2011 saw him beat Dereck Chisora by the slimmest of controversial split verdicts for the European title.. Unfortunately Helenius took two years away from the sport between 2013 and 2015, a hiatus that hurt his momentum.. This fight he feels could catapult him back to where he should have been before he left off..

"This is a huge fight and I’m excited about fighting the winner of last December’s thriller between Whyte and Chisora,” said Helenius. “Chisora and I were scheduled to fight in May but he ran. To my understanding Dillian is not a runner and he will stand and fight. This is a big fight for the Heavyweight division and may the best man win.”

Dillian last boxed in August, stopping journeyman Malcolm Tann in 3 rounds in a time filler in Nebraska..

Whyte v Helenius will play co feature on October 28th at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, the night headlined by Anthony Joshua's first defence of his unified titles against mandatory challenger Kubrat Pulev.

Lara successfully makes sixth defence of WBA title, outclassing former Olympian Gausha.

The highly talented WBA Super Welterweight champion, Erislandy Lara 24-2-2 (14 Ko's) completely outlanded and outclassed Clevelands once beaten 2012 Olympian Terrell Gausha 20-0 (9 Ko's) via unanimous points, last night at the Barclays Centre in Brooklyn.. I could have imagined an easier route for what would be Gaushas first attempt at a world championship, Lara being one of the most stylistically awkward of the current title holders, dropping the challenger in the fourth before easing through a 116-111, 117-110 twice to secure the sixth defence of the title he won in 2014, defeating former IBF champion Ishe Smith.. The previously undefeated 30 year old will come again, he handled himself competently in the circumstances and now understands the levels involved at the top having tasted it first hand.

Jermell Charlo scores sensational first round knockout over Erickson Lubin.

In the statement of the night WBC Super Welterweight champion Jermell Charlo 29-0 (14 Ko's) scored a first round one punch knockout over the previously unbeaten Erickson Lubin 18-0 (13 Ko's) at the Barclays Centre in Brooklyn tonight..  Both men fought 2 and a half minutes of the round extremely cautiously until a single breakthrough right hand shot closed the show..  2:41 of the round..  22 year old Lubin can come again but this knockout will definitely slow his momentum..    Following the bout a defiant Charlo sounded off about how Erickson tried to disrespect him in the lead up to the contest..   Incidentally Jermall Charlo was struck by a chair thrown from ringside following the victory..   A hyped Charlo proclaimed that he wanted IBF champion Jarrett Hurd next..

Hurd stops brave Trout in 10, retains his IBF Super Welterweight title..

Former WBA super welterweight champion Austin Trout 30-3 (17 Ko's) came out of the blocks fast in the early rounds against 27 year old IBF champion Jarrett Hurd 20-0 (14 Ko's) at the Barclays centre in Brooklyn Saturday night, setting a pace that one might consider poor judgment for a man 5 years the champions senior..  Hurd maintained his shape and looked the more composed, but allowed the 32 year old challenger to land the higher volume, often accurately throughout the first half of the bout..  But as advertised, Trouts anxious early workrate would take its toll and after seven would see him appear slightly disjointed, although still enjoying a healthy lead..  Hurd, cut badly in round 7 lacked the urgency of a champion attempting to make a statement, yet rallied in the eighth to try discourage the older man..  Trout slowed dramatically by round 8, yet still managed to find the fresher Hurd with crafty counters..  By 9 Trout looked to be running on vapours, yet still held a slight lead, leaving Hurd needing to take the fight in the last 3 sessions..  Ungainly, Hurd struggled to catch the obvious eye throughout the round, often crowding his own work or missing widely leaving the fight still up for grabs..
Round 10 saw the champion backing up Trout with the jab, yet still failing to capitalise on obvious openings, still allowing the tiring former champion to fiddle his way through the session..   Hurd lacks the power to pursue the stoppage, yet seemed to find the steady volume to overwhelm Trout..   With the eye closed shut, the sorry looking Trout returned to his corner, ahead.. but completely spent, to see the ringside physician stop the fight..    Hurd gets the 10th round TKO, but fails to impress on a stage that was provided for that purpose..

Santa Cruz stops Avalos in 8 to defend WBA Super title.

WBA Featherweight Super champion Leo Santa Cruz 33-1-1 (18 Ko's) successfully defended his championship on Saturday night by stopping gritty Chris Avalos 27-5 (20 Ko's) in 8 rounds at the StubHub Centre in Carson California.. Santa Cruz started effectively aggressive and hurt the challenger badly in the first two sessions. Santa Cruz once again found his mark in the fourth with accurate right hands landing flush, overwhelming the game challenger repeatedly.. Avalos survived the treacherous round but appeared spent at the bell.. A compassionate corner may have saved their charge from a hopeless task at this point, but Avalos was sent back into the action.. Within a minute of round 5, Santa Cruz once again sent his challenger reeling, but surprisingly Avalos responded and had a moments success of his own, the defiance seeing him survive the round.. The three weight champion stuck to task but was met by a stubborn Avalos in the sixth, again attempting to find some momentum and a foothold back into the bout. Avalos appeared to be overstaying his welcome in the seventh, showing the rarest of courage that has kept him in a fight that looked beyond him 3 rounds ago.. An impatient Champion attempted to close the show in the 8th, landing a series of clean shots, which prompting referee Thomas Taylor to step in and stop the fight.. The stoppage did appear a little odd considering the terrible trouble Avalos had survived in previous rounds, the time of the stoppage was relatively tame..

Abner Mares successfully defends his WBA title with lopsided 10 round TD over Andres Gutierrez.

31 year old Abner Mares 30-2-1 (15 Ko's) scored a decisive TD points victory following a cuts stoppage after handing out a meticulous one sided beating to the extremely game Andres Gutierrez 35-1-1 (25 Ko's) at the StubHub Centre in Carson California tonight.. Gutierrez was saved from himself in round 10 by referee Jack Reiss after soaking up a terrific volume of accurate punches from the dominant WBA champion. Gutierrez who was cut badly for the majority of the bout was looking despondent, but appeared set to complete the distance.. Mares showed the difference in level of ability in comparison to the challenger.. Reiss stopped the bout officially on cuts and went to the scorecards.. All 3 judges had Mares a 99-91 winner..

Undercard results, PBC Card, Carson California.

The afternoons fights on the PBC - Fox show in Carson California started with Mexican former world champion Antonio DeMarco (33-6, 24 KOs) handing Eddie Ramirez (17-1, 11 KOs) of Illinois his first loss with a stoppage at 1:56 of the opener.

Californian Bantamweight Jose Balderas (2-0) won a unanimous decision over Victor Torres (2-6-1, 1 KO) in a scheduled four rounder, Scores were 40-36 across the board.

Texan, Roberto Marroquin (27-4-1,19 KOs) stopped tough veteran Mexican Ruben Tamayo (26-11- 4) at 1:49 of round 5 in an eight round super featherweight bout.

Mexicos 2016 Olympic middleweight Misael Rodriguez (4-0, 2 KOs) took a well earned unanimous decision over Californian, Cesar Hernandez (3-3-1, 1 KO) over 6.. Scores were 60-54 by all three judges..

Lithuanian welterweight Eimantas Stanionionis (4-0, 3 KOs) was extended for the first time in his career against Todd Manuel (14-14-1, 3 KOs) over 8.. Scores of 80-72 (twice) and 79-73..

Featherweight Percy Peterson (3-14-3, 1 Ko's) scored the upset of the night, stealing a unanimous decision over Luis Coria (4-1, 3 KOs) in a scheduled four rounder. Peterson dropped Coria in the opening round, a knockdown which would play as a major factor on the scorecards.. All 3 judges saw it as 38-37..

Antonio Santa Cruz (6-3, 3KOs) younger cousin of Leo Santa Cruz scored a third round knockout over Jesus Algandar (2-2, 2 KOs). Algandar was counted out at 1:37 of the third..

Californian, Jerry Perez (4-0, 2 KOs) outscored Juan Sandoval (7-20-1, 4 KOs) of San Bernardino, California over 4.. Scores were unanimous at 39-37.

California super bantamweight Jose Vargas (3-0, 2 KOs) of Pasadena, scored a second round knockout over Jose Perez (1-1, 1 KO). The referee stopped the fight at 2:00 of the session.

Kingpin Johnson returns to upset Pianeta for IBO international title.

Former WBC heavyweight title challenger Kevin Johnson 31-8-1 (15 Ko's) turned back the clock tonight in Unterschleissheim, Germany by defeating twice beaten, double title challenger Francesco Pianeta 34-2-1 (20 Ko's) with a 7th round stoppage for the German based fighters IBO international title.. Johnson appeared in impressive shape and took control for most of the bout.. Pianeta could only  rally to claim the second round and had trouble coping with a cut as well as the telescopic reach of Johnson, looking reluctant to adapt.. Pianeta found himself trapped on the ropes for a large portion of the 7th and appeared unable to regain a foothold in the bout.. Midway through the session Johnson slammed home a bodyshot which dropped Pianeta to a knee, the brave yet discouraged German rose to continue but was met by a relentless barrage of shots which prompted his corner to call it off..  The bout was relatively uneventful but showed us that Kevin still has some tricks in the box, beating a fighter who'd only previously lost in World title attempts.. The body language of the two fighters told us volumes in this fight, Pianeta appeared unkempt and ill conditioned, while Johnson at least looked like he'd made a few sacrifices..

WBSS quarter final, Groves stops game Cox in 4.

Reigning WBA Super Middleweight champion George Groves 27-3 (20 Ko's) successfully defended his championship and advances to the WBSS semi-finals by stopping a game Jamie Cox 24-1 (13 Ko's) in four rounds at the SSE Arena in London tonight.. Cox didn't aim to squander his huge opportunity, taking the fight to Groves and landing the more eye catching shots in the first couple of sessions.. In round 3 the physically stronger Groves appeared to be landing hurtful punches on the inside, visibly troubling the challenger.. Groves continued the pressure into the fourth before collapsing Cox with a crushing right hand to the body.. The game challenger was unable to continue as referee Steve Grey completed the count..

Groves will now meet Chris Eubank Jr in a mouthwatering semi-final with both the WBA and IBO titles up for grabs along with a place in the prestigious tournament final in early 2018..

Premier Boxing Champions, Featherweight double header weigh in results from Carson Ca.

In the weigh in for tomorrow nights PBC Featherweight championship double header from the StubHub Centre in Carson California, Leo Santa Cruz came in at 125.4 lbs, while his opponent Chris Avalos scaled 126 lbs..
While Abner Mares and challenger Andres Gutierrez came in exactly the same at 126 lbs..

Santa Cruz v Avalos is for the WBA's Featherweight 'Super' Championship whilst the Mares v Gutierrez bout has the WBA's 'regular' Championship on the line..

It's the rarest of occasions where there are two fighters headlining the card claiming to be WBA featherweight champion.. I personally don't like multiple Champions within weight divisions from the get go, Split versions per alphabet body are hard enough to stomach but to apply multiple world titles to an alphabet body only offers confusion to fans and frustration to reigning champions..

Saturday evenings boxing is Promoted by Ringstar in association with Premier boxing champions and will be televised by Fox.

Former heavyweight title challengers, Pianeta and Johnson meet in Germany, Saturday.

Former heavyweight title challenger Francesco Pianeta 34-2-1 (20 Ko's) puts his IBO International title on the line tomorrow evening when he meets the crafty veteran American, Kevin Johnson 31-8-1 (15 Ko's) at the Infinity Hotel in Unterschleissheim, Germany.

Pianeta weighed in at 250lb's, with Johnson scaling a slightly more svelte 247lb's.

Both fighters have previously fought at the highest level and challenged for top honours, and an impressive victory here could thrust either man back into the title frame..

Kevin Challenged WBC champion Vitali Klitschko back in 2009, losing a unanimous decision, but will be remembered more recently for losing to Anthony Joshua is 2015 in what would be his only stoppage loss to date.. Johnson dropped a decision to the now IBF mandatory challenger Kubrat Pulev back in April of this year.. 

Pianeta was being highly touted as a future prospect, unbeaten in 29 fights before suffering his first loss by stoppage at the hands of Wladimir Klitschko back in 2013 in a challenger for the unified titles.. Four fights later in 2015 Pianeta would challenge WBA regular champion Ruslan Chagaev, once again falling short, again by stoppage.. Francesco has remained unbeaten since then, most recently beating one Oezcan Cetinkaya for an IBO international title in Germany 3 months ago..

Breazeale faces Molina on Nov 4th Barclays card.

In a battle of former world heavyweight title challengers, Californian Dominic Breazeale 18-1 (16 Ko's) will now face tough Eric Molina 26-4 (19 Ko's) in a 12-round WBC title eliminator on the Wilder v Stiverne 2 card at the Barclays centre, Brooklyn., on November 4th. The main feature, Deontay Wilder v Bermane Stiverne is being broadcast live on SHOWTIME.. Breazeale was originally scheduled to face Stiverne, Whom understandably pulled out of the bout when offered an elevated opportunity to challenge Deontay Wilder, following Luis Ortiz's failed drug test.
Wilder became champion back in January of 2015 when he beat Stiverne in their first meeting and boxed Eric Molina in his first defence 6 months later..
Breazeale, a former Olympian has already had a shot at a championship when he challenged IBF champion Anthony Joshua in June of last year in the champions first defence.. Molina lost his second shot at a title when he became Joshua's second defence back in the December of 2016.. Breazeale is coming off an impressive stoppage of previously unbeaten Izu Ugonoh last February, whilst Molina laboured to a 6 round Majority decision victory over Jamal Woods (a fighter with 35 losses) last month in his last appearance.

The card will also feature former welterweight champion Shawn Porter taking on Adrian Granados and Sergey Lipinets battling Akihiro Kondo for the vacant junior welterweight title both televised bouts.

Groves v Cox, WBSS quarter final on Saturday.

WBA World Super Middleweight title holder George Groves (26-3, 19 KOs) takes on fellow Brit and personal tournament selection Jamie Cox (24-0,13 KOs) in the Muhammad Ali Trophy quarter-final at The SSE Arena in London on Saturday..
Groves feels that he has finally found his feet as a champion and is in the form of his life, while Cox is being offered the biggest opportunity of his career, a title shot and a huge platform to pull off a memorable upset in a high profile tournament.

"I feel I’m in the form of my career,” said Groves.
“This tournament has come along for me at the perfect time. I’ve had a fantastic camp. Everything that we wanted to happen did happen. It’s gone perfectly. I know what Jamie Cox can bring. I know that we maybe haven’t seen the best of Jamie yet because he’s fought nowhere near the level that I have. "
"Jamie hasn’t fought any big names, to earn this opportunity, he hasn’t been in world title fights and he’s taking a giant leap on Saturday night. Both he and his trainer will wonder whether he can take that leap. When he’s boxed at a lower level he’s dropped to that level and maybe he’s that sort of fighter. Maybe he can rise to the occasion but maybe not.”
“Cox hasn’t fought anyone decent to get this. I’ve picked him, it’s fantastic for him. We’re hoping that the best of Jamie Cox will show up. I look forward to going out and performing and performing well. And to show everyone in the division that I’m still the man to beat.”

Cox acknowledges the fact that he hasn't boxed at this level before and is extremely grateful, but stands defiant..

“I’m going to win. It’s as simple as that. No question about it. I’ve come into this to win the tournament. George is the first stop. I’m ready. I don’t know why he chose me. Everyone in the tournament is good, but I’m going to make my mark.”

Kalle Sauerland the chief spokesperson for the tournament was very complimentary of both fighters, stressing that Groves is the man to beat in this series, he's the champion for a reason and very deserved of his number one seeding.
"Everyone seems to be talking about a Eubank Jr. vs. Groves semi-final but Jamie Cox comes in to a nothing to lose situation. He’s an undefeated challenger and that is something that you cannot overlook.. "

Groves is a huge favourite in this matchup, and will more than likely outwork the relatively inexperienced Cox, moving onwards towards the apparent match of the tournament, with Chris Eubank Jr.. Sauerland was correct, everyone is talking about Eubank Jr, and regardless of Groves superior ranking, appears the man to beat..

Wilder "Stiverne will carry the weight of Ortiz's mistakes"

It was recently made public knowledge that WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder will now defend his title against newly placed mandatory challenger Bermane Stiverne on Saturday, November 4, at the Barclays centre in Brooklyn. Stiverne v Wilder will be a rematch of their 2015 highly publicised title fight in which Wilder was extended for the first and only time in his 38 outings to date.. Stiverne will be substituting the unbeaten Luis Ortiz who failed a drug test a week prior to the announcement.. Following their 2015 bout, Stiverne was found to have been severely dehydrated, with chronic muscle fatigue that appeared to hamper the fighters performance throughout the fight, describing the event as though he was sleepwalking and barely a fraction of his usual self.. Don King and Stiverne's people have wanted this fight for nearly two years, and due to Ortiz's misfortune, were here..

Wilder isn't as forgiving.. 

Deontay Wilder: “Stiverne asked for it, so he’s going to get it. Whatever happens happens. Ask and you shall receive. I’m relieved to be getting my mandatory out of the way. At least now I won’t have to deal with that down the road.
“In the first fight, I broke my hand in the third round, and I still dominated. That was a lot of the reason why it went the distance. This time it’s a different day, different time and different fight. This time it won’t end well for him. Despite all of these obstacles that are thrown in my path, it still will not stop me from reaching my ultimate goal, which is to be the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.
“Stiverne will pay for Luis Ortiz screwing up!”

Stiverne ensures that he won't waste this opportunity, insisting that Wilder dodged a bullet in their first fight.. He won't be as lucky this time around..

Wilder has been scathing in recent public outbursts, blasting Ortiz and Povetkin for their substance abuse and the effects it's had on his immediate title reign, Deontay had select words for Dillian Whytes insulting offer to replace Ortiz and even poured scorn on Anthony Joshua's position as the UKs top heavyweight, stating that Fury did the real job on Klitschko and was the original heavyweight champion to put Britain on the map..

Either way, with both Joshua and Wilders mandatories out of the way, it could set up a 2018 mega fight between the two..

Ruthless Eubank jr disposes of unbeaten Yildirim in 3.

Chris Eubank jr (26-1, 20 KOs) sent out a chilling message to the remaining competitors of the Super Middleweight WBSS tourney on Saturday night, when he scored a clinical third round KO over the previously unbeaten Avni Yildirim (16-1, 10 KOs) in their quarterfinal bout at the Hanns-Martin-Schleyer Arena in Stuttgart, Germany.
Eubank managed to overwealm Yildirim as early as the opening round, forcing the game Turk to take a flash knee from a short uppercut.. Yildirim boxed un typically wild and presented himself almost as target practice for the ruthless IBO champion throughout the second.. The third would see Yildirim attempt to press Eubank, with adverse effects, Jr countered recklessly with a barrage of accurate shots closing the combination with a crisp left hook that would drop Yildirim heavily, obviously in no condition to continue Avni attempted to make it to his feet but the bout was waved off by referee Leszek Jankowiak at 1.58 of the session.
Eubank later proclaimed that he is here to take over the tournament and the division.. Chris's immediate focus will be subsequent quarter finalist George Groves whom he will more than likely face if the Londoner comes through his quarter final with Jamie Cox next week.. Yildirim along with promoter Ahmad Oner later explained to the press that Avni followed his fighting spirit and not the game plan in losing to Eubank so concisely, "If Avni learns from this and uses his ability to adapt he will move on and improve.. If he can't adapt, he won't advance above this level."
Avni himself had some chilling words about Eubanks ability, Yildirim has sparred and shared the ring with a whole lot of top fighters and champions, and when asked for a comparison between Jr and James Degale, Yildirim explained, there is no comparison, different league, Chris is extremely explosive..

Crolla scores unanimous victory over a gallant Burns in Manchester.

In an intriguing if not significant fight at lightweight former world champions, Anthony Crolla (32-6-3, 13 KOs) and Ricky Burns (41-7-1, 14 KOs) met over twelve rounds at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, England on Saturday night.. Crolla appeared to land the more telling shots in a highly watchable bout earning him the unanimous verdict, by possibly wider scores than I'd have tallied..  Scoring was. 116-113, 117-112, 116-114.

On the same card the slightly unheralded Mohamed Mimoune (19-2, 2 KOs) dethroned Sam Eggington (24-4, 13 KOs) of his European Welterweight title by split decision. Mimoune boxed more consistently than Eggington throughout the last half of the bout, showing an abundance of desire to win, a factor that appeared to be lacking in the champion.. I had the bout a clear cut unanimous win for the challenger.. Scores were 116-112, 115-113 for Mimoune, while a third judge submitted a classic at 116-112 for Eggington.

Welterweight Conor Benn (9-0, 7 KOs) took a veritable step up for his 9th outing against the usually capable Nathan Clarke (5-2-1, 1 KO) in an early support bout.. Benn meticulously cut the ring off from the start, before dropping Clarke early.. The ruthless Benn never allowed Nathan to regroup and scored a second heavy knockdown at a point where it would have been a justifiable stoppage.. Clarke was allowed to continue and was stopped moments later... Benn, somewhat content with his performance sounded extremely grounded in explaining how he doesn't wish to be rushed, stating that he fights who his team feels that he is ready for, saying that he doesn't even want to think about title fights yet, he gets nervous enough just boxing regular opponents.. Although it is apparent that before long Conor will be within range of domestic honours at least..

Former world title challenger Gavin McDonnell (18-1-2, 5 KOs) made a brief appearance, stopping tough Jozsef Ajtai (19-9, 12 KOs) in the first followed by another brief session by light heavyweight Hosea Burton (20-1, 10 KOs) who got rid of late substitute Ratu Latianara (5-1, 0 KOs) in just 1 minute 20 seconds.

Lightweight Lewis Ritson (13-0, 7 KOs) claimed the British 135lb belt with a seventh round stoppage of Robbie Barrett (15-3-1, 1 KO). Barrett had previously won his title with a hard earned decision over Scotty Cardle, Ritson jumped on Barrett and scored several knockdowns prior to the stoppage..

33 year old Sam Sexton grabs vacant British heavyweight title with unanimous victory over Gary Cornish.

33 year old Sam Sexton fulfilled a life long ambition tonight in the relative twilight of his career by outpointing Scottish behemoth Gary Cornish 24-1 (12 Ko's) for the vacant British Heavyweight title at the Meadowbank Sports Centre in Scotland.. The Norwich man was coming off a year long layoff but maintained his 8 fight winning streak with the victory a run going as far back as 2012 and his loss to David price in a previous challenge for this title, the other being a loss to Derrick Chisora 2 years earlier.. Sexton 23-3 (9 Ko's) didn't allow the height disadvantage to deter him, using clever counterpunches to pinch rounds throughout a generally ugly contest.. Cornish showed flashes of talent in the early rounds but faded as the wiser old campaigner out-hustled him. Cornish landed heavy artillery in spots but was unable to capitalise, suffering a cut eye from a head clash and a damaged nose, both early in the contest... Neither fighter took any chances in the final session, letting the leather fly, with Cornish enjoying his best success of the night in the final moments.. The victory was never really in doubt, Unanimously by scores of 114-116, 113-116, 114-115..
This is a career highlight for Sexton who did previously manage to pick up the Commonwealth title in 2009, as a springboard from his 2008 prizefighter Championship success, beating and defending against tough Martin Rogan.
Cornish's only other blemish was a stoppage loss to the now unified world champion Anthony Joshua in 2015.

Wilder v Ortiz scrapped.. Bermaine Stiverne rematch on.

A long awaited decision has been reached by Mauricio Sulaiman and the WBC regarding the upcoming Deontay Wilder heavyweight championship defence in Brooklyn Ny on November 4th. Original scheduled opponent Luis Ortiz 27-0 (23 knockouts) failed a drug test 10 days ago testing positive for the banned substances Chlorothiazide and Hydrochlorothiazide, two drugs listed as banned on Vadas 2017 roster under the subheading Diuretics.. Ortiz later claimed that the drugs were ingredients in his prescribed blood pressure medicine, yet failed to disclose them in the required legal paperwork and since its not a first offence for the Cuban, the WBC have pulled Ortiz out and ordered Wilder to fight the originally scheduled mandatory Bermaine Stiverne 25-2-1 (21 Ko's) in a rematch of their 2015 championship bout.. Wilder will no doubt be bitterly disappointed, but has a chance to better his points victory and lay claim that he has knocked out and stopped everyone he has faced as a pro.. Stiverne himself a former champion has only boxed once since his bout with Wilder, a clumsy win over Derrick Rossy last year where the Haitian had to climb off the floor from an early flash knockdown.. Bermaine remains the only man to yet take Deontay the full trip and it's the best fight that could be made considering the circumstances.. Wilder 38-0 (37 Ko's) has three times had fights scrapped due to a drug discrepancy, the most prominent being last years mandatory with former WBA champion Alexander Povetkin in Russia where the latter failed a test for the masking agent Meldonium..

Miracle man opponent revealed for Matchroom debut.

Former WBA middleweight champion Daniel Jacobs (32-2, 29 KOs) has officially released the identity of his forthcoming opponent today at a press conference in New York City. Jacobs was the first American signing of UK promotional offshoot for Eddie Hearn/Matchroom Boxing. Jacobs debut under the Matchroom banner is on HBO, on November 11th at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, NY. The opponent is unbeaten Luis Arias (18-0, 9 KOs).
Jacobs last outing was a unanimous yet narrow defeat at the hands of Gennady Golovkin in New York last March, in a bout for all of the marbles at 160.

Deontay Wilder 'Vents' in writing.

Following last weeks revelations regarding Luis Ortiz substance test failure and the frustrations concerning that huge WBC title defence, Deontay Wilder opened fire with both barrels by putting pen to paper, watch out, the language is colourful and everyone gets a mention..

................
I’m going to just put it like this , I’ve called out EVERY TOP FIGHTER that was viewed by many as the best of the division. I’ve always fight who was placed in front of me. Many of the so called best stayed in the light because they knew once they enter into that dark tunnel, I would be on the other end of that bih waiting… Mind “Willing” and Body saying “Ready”.

Name another HeavyWeight to date doing what I’m doing!? I’m not only knocking these grown ass men out, but the fashion I’m doing it in a way their body have abnormal movement on the canvas pavement. Many have visited the hospital shortly after meeting me and some have even smelt the scent of Death after dangerously getting their heads busted in.

GO DO YOUR RESEARCH FIRST PEOPLE “Lazy Asses” then you will see who’s the best! I actually end careers! Facts are facts! Numbers don’t lie! Like a pastor in church would say, “YOU BETTER BRING YOUR BIBLE AND READ IT AND KNOW IT FOR YOURSELF, BECAUSE I COULD TELL YOU ANYTHING AND YOU BELIEVE ME”.

Many people are afraid to face the truth of things. Why, because the truth fucking hurts! Many will say everybody else’s name, but yours on being the best, but on the other hand, feel shitty inside because they know what the real reality of it and the reality is DEONTAY WILDER IS THE BEST! On top of that, the MOST FEARED At This Moment In Time!

Face the reality or continuously look dumb explaining why God is using me in a strange, but never seen way. Btw it’s hilarious to watch.Im not here to change anyone’s mind on me or what I’ve done. To be honest, I really don’t give “$@&!” What you think! I just thought I’d give you a chance to do your homework first then honestly judge. ITS SO CRAZY HOW THE SO CALLED BEST AND CONTENDERS OF THE SPORT HAVE TO GET REPORTED USING P.E.Ds BEFORE FACING ME, BUT THE MOST FUNNIEST OF ALL I GET THE BLAME FOR GROWN ASS MEN MAKING DUMB ASS DECISION JUST TO FACE THIER FEARS!

On the bright side, we have WilderVsJoshua to look forward to, but wouldn’t it be the story of my life if he end up getting pop too?JUst sAyin

#BOMBZQUAD

Ortiz fails drug test, Wilder fight in disarray..

The long awaited November 4th fight between WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder and dangerous challenger Luis Ortiz appears to be in disarray, as Ortiz tested positive for a banned substance last week.. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman made an announcement Monday night over social media hinting at a cancellation. A finalised decision is expected soon regarding the status of the bout regarding a change of opponent.
Both fighters were required to submit a random blood and urine test by VADA in the weeks prior to the fight. Ortiz apparently tested positive for Chlorothiazide and Hydrochlorothiazide, which according to Ortiz’ camp stemmed from a hypertension medication.. Both substances are present on the 2017 WADA Prohibited List under the “Diuretics and Masking Agents” category.
Ortiz isn't a debutant to the failed a drug test situation.. in 2014, Ortiz received a fine and suspension from the Nevada State Athletic Commission for a test failure prior to his bout with Lateef Kayode..
This is the third occasion that Wilder has has a high profile bout scuppered by a test failure.. Alexander Povetkin wrecked a huge mandatory defence last year when he tested positive for the drug Meldonium.. Wilder who has voiced his opinion publicly this week has made it clear that he is still prepared to face the Cuban, regardless of the test failure.. Deontay respects the WBCs decision considering the circumstances, but has requested the defence in a bid to punish Ortiz in the face of the failure..

Briedis outscores Perez, moves into WBSS semi-finals.

WBC world cruiserweight title holder Mairis Briedis (23-0, 18 KOs) earned a crafty twelve round unanimous decision over Cruiserweight newcomer Mike Perez (22-3, 14 KOs) in a title defence and to advance into the semi-final of the World Boxing Super Series, last night in his native Riga, Latvia.
The fight wasn't exactly for the purist, where both knockout artists nullified the other with a lot of physical close quarter activity.. Briedis was cut in the third round from an accidental head clash for which Perez was taxed a single point. Perez did attempt to rally late in the bout, with most of his swarming flurries missing the target, Briedis consistently landed the cleaner, more accurate counters and managed to catch the judges eyes as the busier of the two. Briedis did lose a point in the tenth for holding, but had maintained a steady lead over the tough Cuban down the stretch.. Scores were 116-110, 115-111, 114-112.. The Latvian will advance to face WBO champion Oleksandr Usyk in the next round. Perez who featured more prominently as a heavyweight for most of his career appears to have found his optimum weight division although did seem to boxed within himself in what was his first championship challenge.