Easter and Barthelemy snooze to a split draw.. Ajagba blazes on.

Former lightweight title holder Robert Easter Jr. 21-1 (14 KOs) and the colourful former double division champion Rances Barthelemy 27-1 (14 KOs) boxed within themselves on Saturday night at the Cosmopolitan, Las Vegas, scratching out an unattractive Split draw, in a fight for the vacant IBO and WBA world lightweight titles.. Both fighters had all the intentions on producing on the night, but sometimes the styles just don’t gel.. Neither fighter appeared willing to pull the trigger..
Scores were 115-113 Easter, 115-113 Barthelemy and a 114-114 draw.
Both fighters called for a rematch after the fact.. it’s not a fight that I’d be keen on sitting through again..

On the undercard Nigerian Powerhouse Efe Ajagba took care of once beaten German import Michael Wallisch at 1:40 of the second.. Wallisch 19-1 (12 Ko’s) looked badly gun-shy after tasting Ajagba’s power early.. Olympian Ajagba is now 10-0 (9 Ko’s) and is looking for a decent step up fight..

Saturdays Event was hosted by the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas,
and was promoted by TGB Promotions, AB Promotions and Mayweather boxing.

The heavyweight debut of Oleksandr Usyk, only weeks away..

Only a matter of weeks now until the heavyweight debut of the unified world Cruiserweight king, Oleksandr Usyk, where he takes on the very capable and tested former world title challenger Carlos Takam at The MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland on a nationally broadcast fight card.. Oleksandr is naturally a big man, having spent most of his amateur career at heavyweight and Super Heavyweight, and having spent the best part of 7 years boiling his huge frame down to 200 pounds to fulfil an ambition of cleaning out the Cruiserweights in rapid fashion.. Takam is a stubborn, rugged campaigner, who gave Anthony Joshua a torrid nights work on a weeks notice, before succumbing to a late rally, by the Champion 18 months ago... and will certainly offer a willing challenge for the Ukrainians baptism at the higher weight.. The transition to heavyweight hasn’t been too extreme for Usyk, he has added the poundage gradually in a fashion styled after another great Cruiserweight stepping up, Evander Holyfield.. The flexibility will still be there and hopefully the speed and reflexes will be on hand in his flagship opportunity to showcase himself as a definite threat to the respective champions.. The undercard features the American debut of 27 year old Filip Hrgovic, the large, unbeaten Croatian heavyweight contender who takes on the once beaten Gregory Corbin, fresh off his first defeat, in a fight that I would describe as pointless.. Hrgovic is a powerful force, out to make a statement against a man who has only recently suffered a damaging first loss, in a bout that will more than likely conclude the Florida mans career.. Corbins age of 38 dictated the way that his management rapidly moved his career, but a fight of this nature only serves to harm the fighters confidence, at a time when its already damaged..

Usyk v Takam, and Corbin v Hrgovic will be shown live on DAZN and on Sky Sports in the Uk.

Andy Ruiz wins the Anthony Joshua lottery, challenges for the championship on June 1st.

Finally, two weeks after the collapse of the heavyweight championship fight between Champion, Anthony Joshua and would be challenger Jarrell Miller, it appears that we have an agreed replacement.. Andy Ruiz will once again challenge for the title, fresh off a victory last weekend in California over Alexander Dimitrenko.. The once beaten Ruiz challenged for the vacant WBO title two years ago in New Zealand, losing a split decision over Joseph Parker, that many thought Ruiz would have been granted on home soil.. If we were to take Ruiz purely on appearance alone, we’d have wrote him off long ago, yet beneath his soft body and mild demeanour lies a vicious puncher with very good mobility, and the type of style that makes for an interesting night on June 2nd.. Millers exit from the original scheduled bout ignited a frenzy amongst connected managers and promoters to provide an attractive replacement on such short notice.. The Original favourite looked to be Michael Hunter Jr, but with the contrasting style difference from that of Anthony’s original opponent, they edged towards a final three, being Luis Ortiz, Trevor Bryant and Andy Ruiz.. Joshua favoured the dangerous Ortiz, but in a miscommunication between the Cuban and his management, a substantial offer was refused, leaving the Florida based Bryant and Ruiz in the running.. Bryant, promoted by Don King and trained by Stacy McKinley looked to be tailor made for the job, tall, undefeated, American, and well conditioned.. Yet following late negotiations, Eddie Hearn and team Joshua came to the agreement that with all things considered, Ruiz is exactly what they require for AJ’s US debut.. The rest of the Madison Square Garden Card is still not yet finalised and with ticket sales on hold, pending news of the replacement, the promotion has been far from ideal.. 

Joshua v Ruiz will be broadcast on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports Box office in the United Kingdom..

David Price meets David Allen, July 20th in London.

Colourful Doncaster Heavyweight David Allen is all set to face Liverpool’s David Price in an interesting domestic dust up on the Dillian Whyte v Oscar Rivas Card on July 20th at the O2 in London..
Allen 17-4-2 (14 Ko’s) is fresh off his biggest victory to date, stopping former WBA regular champion Lucas Browne in three rounds only 2 weeks ago, demolishing the huge Aussie with a tremendous left hook to the body, in his first ever headline event..
Price 24-6 (19 Ko’s) a former Olympic medalist, British and Commonwealth champion, has faced some elite level heavyweights in his 30 bouts, unfortunately losing to most of them.. The Scouser returned to winning ways with a solid performance in stopping Tom Little last December before reducing the overmatched Kash Ali to desperate measures at The M&S Bank Arena only a month ago, Ali being disqualified for repeated biting in a bizarre affair.. On his day Price can prove a handful, tall, rangy and immensely powerful.. But Allen is an unpredictable fighter, who isn’t afraid to roll the dice.. An impressive recent win over Nick Webb convinced the Conisborough man to knuckle down and take his career more seriously, resulting in the fabulous performance against Browne.. The fight is a definite pick em affair, with the winner looking at a possible domestic bout with Dereck Chisora or Joe Joyce..

Allen v Price and Whyte v Rivas will be televised on Sky Sports Box office..

Dubois stops game Lartey in 4.

At The SSE, Wembley tonight, Undefeated Heavyweight prospect Daniel Dubois 10-0 (9 Ko’s) overcame some rocky moments before knocking out Ghana’s Richard Lartey 14-1 (11 Ko’s) in the fourth of a scheduled 10 rounder.. Lartey who arrived late due to visa issues showed grit in the early rounds, attempting to match Dubois with heavy weaponry..
Dubois managed to dig in and trouble the visitor frequently, but looked too eager to take risks, finding himself disorganised in the 3rd following a dangerous series of traded hooks between the two.. Dubois maintained his composure in round 4, settled back behind the jab and soon found Lartey an ideal target.. Halfway through the session, Lartey walked into a right hand, left hook combination that dropped him heavily.. Nose bloodied, Lartey attempted to rise but was counted out on his feet by Bob Williams at 1:50..
Dubois looks all set now to meet fellow undefeated Brit, Joe Joyce in a British title affair, later in the year.. Regardless of the spectacular victory tonight, this wasn’t Daniels beat effort..

Jesse Vargas overpowers tough Humberto Soto in 6..

In an action packed affair, former double world champ Jesse Vargas 29-2-2 (11 Ko’s) knocked out former three time world title holder, Humberto Soto 69-10-2 (38 Ko’s) with a vicious cluster of shots at 1:48 of round 6, in a scheduled 151 pound 10 rounder.. In a highly watchable bout, Soto touched down as early as the first from what appeared to be a low blow.. Shortly after, a nasty cut opened above Vargas’ left eye, courtesy of a headbutt.. Vargas maintained his composure and seemed to be doing enough to win the majority of the bout, yet Soto continued to bore in with the head, making it uncomfortable viewing.. In the 6th Vargas landed a clinical right cross, dropping Soto momentarily, when the action resumed, Vargas moved in, landing a crisp combination that once again floored Humberto, forcing the referee to halt the contest.. There were no complaints from the Soto contingent, as the stoppage was justified.. despite the spirited showing, Soto looked old in comparison to the younger, sharper Vargas.. Soto looking a shadow of the fighter that upset Brandon Rios only 8 weeks ago..

Lartey arrives in the Uk, accuses Warren of dirty tricks with Visa entry.

Ghanaian Heavyweight Champion, Richard Lartey 14-1, claims that a dirty tricks campaign by Frank Warren, halted the heavyweights entry into the country on Wednesday to fulfil media obligations for his bout with Daniel Dubois 10-0 (9 Ko’s) this weekend.. Lartey finally received the green flag to come to the UK, two days later, and intends to roadblock Dubois muted British title fight with Joe Joyce, scheduled for later in the year.. Lartey told Mirageboxing, “Dubois has been spoon fed Baby food, easy work.. He hasn’t faced anyone like me.. I’m African, I’m not going out like that.. My win over Dubois is a door open for a fight with Anthony Joshua.” Lartey stands at 6 foot 5, and appears defiant by demeanour, a win over Daniel could thrust the Ghanaian into a meeting with Joe Joyce, but ambitions of a Joshua fight in reality are light years away.. The African is in the Uk at last, and tomorrow’s fight with Dubois is back on.. Saturdays card from the O2, will feature Sunny Edwards, Zak Chelli and Jack Catterall..

Dubois opponent Lartey denied visa, Queensbury seek alternative opponent for Saturday.

Undefeated 21 year old Heavyweight Daniel Dubois planned appearance this coming weekend at Wembley took a blow, when scheduled opponent 6 foot 5 Ghanaian, Richard Lartey (14-1) was denied a visa to enter the United Kingdom for working purposes. This was to have been the prelude to Dubois’ 10-0 (9 Ko’s) crucial British title fight with Olympic silver medalist Joe Joyce 8-0 (8 Ko’s) pencilled in for 13th July.. Queensbury Promotions is working feverishly to find a worthy last minute replacement for Daniel who would be appearing live on ESPN+ in the United States.

Joe Joyce signs deal with Queensbury Promotions.

In a week that Undefeated heavyweight Joe Joyce 8-0 (8 Ko’s) parted ways with California based trainer Abel Sanchez, The Olympian has also signed a co-promotional deal with Frank Warrens, Queensbury Promotions, sharing the agreement with Ringstar Sports.. The agreement will ensure the 33 year old heavyweight more exclusive Tv appearances via Warrens relationship with UK based network, BT Sports.. Joyce holds the WBA Gold and Commonwealth titles, and is the number one mandatory for the European title.. Joe’s debut under Queensbury, should be May the 18th at the Lamex Stadium in Hertfordshire, under the tutelage of Adam Booth..

Undefeateds, Joe Joyce and Daniel Dubois, agree to meet for the vacant British title.

Undefeated Olympic silver medalist Joe Joyce 8-0 (8 Ko’s) has agreed to meet fellow unbeaten prospect, Daniel Dubois 10-0 (9 Ko’s) for the vacant coveted British heavyweight championship, in a fight that when originally ordered by the British Boxing Board of control looked unlikely to happen.. The matchup comes extremely early in both men’s careers, but in rolling the dice it shows how committed and confident both guys are in their respective abilities.. It was 28 years ago last month since possibly the last comparable British heavyweight title dual between undefeated prospects, when Gary Mason defended his title against the up and coming Olympic champion Lennox Lewis in 1991.. The Olympian came through on that occasion in a brutal fight that spring boarded Lewis towards his first world championship.. Dubois is a well balanced, physical boxer puncher who has been stepped steadily up until now, his spectacular knockout filled career possibly lacks rounds, While arguably  the more athletic Joyce has taken a risky path of stepping slightly more hastily towards a higher level of competition, due to his age, stopping former WBC champion Bermane Stiverne in 6 as recent as February.. Both guys are completely different fighters, Joyce looks to be a durable risk taker, while the 12 year younger Dubois appears to be the more calculated technician... No Venue or date has been set in stone, although Frank Warren does have July 13th earmarked for such an event... Daniel still has business next Saturday to attend to when he meets 14-1 Richard Lartey, a 6 foot 5 Ghanaian at Wembley..

Dillian Whyte meets Oscar Rivas, July 20th..

Finally the identity of Dillian Whyte’s opponent for July 20th has been revealed.. Whyte 25-1 (18 Ko’s) will face undefeated 2008 Olympian Oscar Rivas 26-0 (18 Ko’s) at the O2 in London.. Rivas is currently the NABF and NABO champion and is coming off a final round stoppage of Bryant Jennings in January. Whyte continues to pursue a championship fight, despite being pushed back continually.. Impressive victories over names like Jo Parker, Lucas Browne, Robert Helenius and Dereck Chisora should have secured a title fight for the Brixton man, yet circumstances and politics have denied any such opportunity to date.. Rivas is a live opponent, but is beatable, entering the final round in the Jennings fight the Colombian was staring defeat in the face.. Whyte is a much improved heavyweight and an impressive victory should finally affirm his position as the next in line for Deontay Wilders WBC title..

David Allen scores spectacular stoppage of Lucas Browne in London.

In an unlikely Main Event at London’s O2 arena, the colourful David Allen 17-4-2 (14 Ko’s) scored the most significant win of his career by stopping former WBA regular world heavyweight champion Lucas Browne 28-2 (14 Ko’s) with a counter left hook to the body.. Browne looked in control of the opening two rounds, with deliberate jabs and sneaky uppercuts, but allowed Allen to dictate a close quarters encounter approaching the third.. As both fighters came out for the third, Browne did appear to have slight nose damage which Allen quickly zoned in on.. moments later, Browne threw a long looping right hook, which Allen countered with a clinical left to the Australians exposed midsection, forcing Browne to wince in pain before falling to his knees.. Referee Marcus McDonnell took up the count as Browne, bleeding heavily from the nose was unable to recover.. The defeat is only the second of Lucas’ 30 fight career, his sole defeat coming against mutual opponent Dillian Whyte.. Allen now has British heavyweight boxing at his feet, with suggested bouts against Dereck Chisora and David Price potentially in his future.. Time of stoppage :58 seconds of round 3.

Heavyweight Dereck Chisora (30-9, 21 KOs) looked less that inspiring in tonight’s chief support as he scored a tedious 10 round unanimous decision over an unwilling Senad Gashi (17-3, 17 KOs). Dereck stalked the cautious Gashi, yet rarely found the mark with anything significant for much of the fight.. The German visitor lost most of his ambition in the first 3 rounds having felt Chisora’s power inside, and resigned himself to a survival mission.. Earlier in the week, David Haye offered Dereck as a potential replacement for Anthony Joshua’s June date, but on this showing, the Finchley man needs to consider his future.. Scores were 100-90, 100-91, 99-91.

The Event was hosted by the O2 Arena in London..
Promoted by Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom boxing..
Televised by Sky in the UK.

Miller fails test for a 3rd substance.. Sarah Fina claims that the backlash aimed at the fighter is racially motivated.

To update recent reports regarding Jarrell Miller’s positive dope test results, it has been revealed that yesterday a third positive reading was returned from his March 31st VADA test, this time for EPO, better known as Erythropoietin or hematopoietin, a substance used to increase the oxygen-carrying capacity of an athletes blood for cardiovascular endurance.. This is the third test failure in a week, Miller did release a social media apology where he came clean about the issue, stating that he “Messed up .” VADA along with the respective governing bodies are expected to issue the fighter with some form of disciplinary action in the coming days..

Although Miller was decent enough to take full responsibility for his actions, a curious response was released today by Sarah Fina, a member of Miller’s management team, suggesting that the backlash aimed towards Jarrell, is racially motivated..

Fina Stated..
Firstly, I do not condone cheating whatsoever, am I upset and disappointed with Jarrell...? Absolutely.. What Jarrell has done is wrong 100%, but what I won't do is turn my back on him.. People make bad choices in life.
With all of that being said, it is hard for me not to think that he is being nailed to the cross because he is an African-American fighter.

A bizarre statement considering that similar heat was aimed towards Saul Alvarez, Billy Joe Saunders, Tyson Fury, Lucas Browne and Manuel Charr in recent months regarding positive drug test results.. Miller did himself no favours in last months press tour, when he pointed an accusing finger at Anthony Joshua, calling him the Lance Armstrong of boxing, quite ironic that one of the substances found in Millers system was a particular drug used by the notorious cyclist..

Weigh in results from the O2 in London.

Weights and scheduled running order for Matchrooms Saturday night boxing from the O2 in London.

6 rounds Cruiserweights
Sam Hyde 14st 10lbs v Jozef Jurko 14st 2lbs

4 rounds Super-Bantamweights
Sam Cox 8st 8lbs v Georgi Georgiev 8st 8lbs

6 rounds Middleweights
John Harding Jr 11st 3lbs v Miroslav Juna 11st 4lbs

4 rounds (Women’s) Bantamweights
Shannon Courtenay 8st 6lbs v Roz Mari Silyanova 8st 7lbs

4 rounds Middleweights
Nikita Ababiy 11st 6lbs v Dmitri Faltin 11st 7lbs

Live Sky Televised bouts.

8 rounds Welterweights
Conor Benn 10st 8lbs v Josef Zahradnik 10st 5lbs

12 rounds, British & Commonwealth Lightweight Championships.
Joe Cordina 9st 8lbs v Andy Townend 9st 8lbs

10 rounds, WBA International Welterweight Championship
Josh Kelly 10st 6lbs v Przemislaw Runowski 10st 6lbs

10 rounds international Heavyweight contest
Dereck Chisora 18st 7lbs v Senad Gashi 15st 10lbs

Main Event.
12 rounds International Heavyweight contest
David Allen 17st 6lbs v Lucas Browne 17st 10lbs

The Event is hosted by The O2 in Greenwich, London.
Promoted by Eddie Hearn, Matchroom boxing.
Televised on Sky Sports in the UK.

Jarrell Miller... Fails second test.. for Human Growth Hormone.

It has just been revealed that heavyweight Jarrell Miller has just failed a second VADA test for the substance HGH, only days after denying a first failure for the banned drug GW156.. The revelation of the more recent failure has incensed Eddie Hearn, the promoter of heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, who is now convinced that Miller had no intentions of challenging for the title ‘Clean.’
Hearn said:

"We have now received news from VADA that Jarrell Miller has now failed a second seperate test for a further substance..  AJ’s June 1 opponent will be announced next week - if you don’t think you can beat him clean then delete my number!"

Last weeks news regarding the presence of Cardarine, in Millers, March 10th sample forced the New York State Athletic control board to deny the Brooklyn heavyweight a boxing licence to challenge AJ on June 1st, thus revoking Millers chance of a career high purse..
Eddie Hearn’s search for a late replacement on 6 weeks notice, has reached a shortlist with many predicting that either Michael Hunter jr or Manuel Charr will get the spot, whilst all concerned are still awaiting the results of Millers B sample, a mere formality considering the new circumstances..
The fight at Madison square garden on June 1st, is an important one for Joshua, it’s his US pro debut and it’s imperative that he makes a lasting impression, most favourably against a valid American opponent.. A change of opponent and style at this late stage is far from ideal.. Regardless, the show goes on with the disclosure of the replacement expected within the next 4 days..

Shields “I think I can beat up Keith Thurman.”

Undisputed women’s world middleweight champion, Claressa Shields says she’s very confident that she could beat most top male fighters, Calling out Keith Thurman, Shawn Porter and Gennady Golobkin by name.. Shields was impressive last weekend against Christina Hammer, proving that she indeed on another level in her particular division..
The ideal direction for the unified Michigan native would be fellow unified female champion Celilia Braekhus in a huge potential pay per view event in the near future, possibly at a 154 catch weight, to distinguish arguably the greatest female fighter alive..
But Shields recent comments show that she doesn’t just consider herself the best female fighter around, she is of the opinion that she’s far superior to most top male counterparts too.. and says she’s more than willing to back it up.
Claressa specifies... She spars with men, drops men, and busts men up all the time in the gym.. But that is when you have to rationally differentiate between her day to day sparring with head gear, and the men that she has targeted, the hard punching Gennady Golovkin and Keith Thurman, men that are generally regarded as elite championship fighters in men’s boxing..
Shields isn’t new to trash talking, but she does herself no favours in singling out proven world champions, when she has barely fought in 10 professional, 2 minute round contests..
The Comment,
“I think I can beat up Keith Thurman … I really do.”
Is an insult to the 29-0-1 fighter who has held multiple titles for a number of years..
Further than that.. Shields continued..
“They may be stronger than me, but their boxing ability isn’t like mine. GGG, he’s older now, but I could give GGG a run for his money.”
Golovkin needs no introduction as an elite fighter, and the comments just fall shy of crass..

Claressa’s recent success appears to have jaded her perspective as she goes on to say,
“Power for Power isn’t a question, it’s a skill sport, a sweet science.. Hammer was supposed to be stronger than me in most departments, but look at the traps that I set..”
“If I were to get in there with a man, I would do a lot more of that. And, I do have some power. I’m not gonna say I’m stronger than them, but if I set up the right shots up I can get the job done.. “

No comments have been made in response to Shields’ outburst by any of the respective fighters, but there has been countless comments via social media from many renowned boxing authorities..
Don’t expect a Thurman v Shields cross gender grudge match in the near future, but it’s highly likely that the next Male sparring Claressa partakes in, may turn into a point proving exercise..

I wish her well, but Claressa needs some assistance in controlling her tactless outbursts, before her activity in the press overshadows her performances in the ring.

Jarrell Miller Statement.

A disappointed Jarrell Miller issued a statement today via social media to offer some clarity, regarding the failed drug test situation which has forced the cancellation of his upcoming challenge for the world heavyweight championship..

I want to thank all of my supporters who have stood by me since day one and especially during this extremely difficult time... I have not been tuned into social media and any other media outlets to focus and channel all of my energies into working hard with no distractions...
I am absolutely devastated upon hearing the news my boxing license has been revoked in NY State and I will be vigorously appealing this decision. I have NEVER knowingly taken any banned substance and when I found out the news last night I was totally shocked...
My team and I stand for integrity, decency & honesty and together we will stand to fight this with everything we have..
This was a voluntarily test that I was very happy to do and these results came just one week after another voluntarily test that I had taken which was completely clean. I refuse to just lie down and let my dream be taken away from me when I know in my heart that I’ve done nothing wrong..
15 years of hard work. I’m a WARRIOR .. I don’t need a banned substance.
Remember don’t believe everything you hear and see. The facts will prevail and I shall be vindicated. I don’t have anything to hide and the truth will make itself known.

It appears like a heartfelt message that points towards a huge mistake being made regarding the positive test reading.. Which is all you can expect really from an athlete who’s just been caught and publicly embarrassed.. The facts though stand, very rarely are Vada test results wrong, and with insufficient disciplinary measures in place for culprits, the volume of dirty athletes continues to rise..
Miller is a 320 pound man, who throws an insane volume of punches and maintains a remarkable work rate despite his excessive girth.. A number of fighters/trainers have commented regarding these factors since the news broke 48 hours ago.. A replacement for Miller hasn’t yet been appointed, although Michael Hunter is the one name that seems to head most people’s list..

David Allen and Lucas Browne headline at the O2 this Saturday.

In his first appearance as the headline fighter, heavyweight David Allen 16-4-2 (13 Ko’s) takes on former WBA regular champion, Lucas Browne 28-1 (24 Ko’s) over 12 rounds at the O2 in London this coming Saturday 20th April, live on Sky sports and DAZN.. The 27 year old Allen has only been a professional for 7 years but has faced some of the world leading heavyweights in an up and down career.. The 4 losses have largely been against top drawer fighters, Dillian Whyte, luis Ortiz and Tony Yoka, each time offering a respectable account of himself in gruelling fights..   More recently Allen scored an impressive knockout of the highly favoured Nick Webb, resurrecting his career as a relevant name, contrasted by a lazy drawn out brawl with an 8-1 Ariel Bracamonte last November a performance so poor that it inspired Allen to knuckle down and dedicate himself to his craft..  After several months of devotion, solely focussed on Browne, Allen feels that this version of himself can have no excuses if he fails to beat Lucas Browne on Saturday, with the help of newly appointed coach Darren Barker, he assures there have been no stones left unturned..
Browne isn’t a stranger to these shores, he’s boxed here numerous times whilst under the Hatton promotional banner and more recently, in his sole loss, a 2018 knockout at the hands of their common opponent Dillian Whyte.. There are no secrets about Lucas, he’s a big, strong 40 year old puncher, who is dangerous for as long as you stand in front of him.. In 2016, whilst making a routine WBA title defence, a complacent Ruslan Chagaev found out the hard way, walking onto huge shots late in a fight in which he was leading to suffer a shock knockout, in what stands out as the Australians biggest win to date.. Lucas lost the title amidst drug allegations but has still remained relevant and active with 3 solid victories in the year since the Whyte defeat.. The bout is an intriguing one, the huge puncher against one of the most notoriously durable heavyweights around, both have fallen short at the highest level, but both have also proven that they belong in the fringes of contention.. In the heavyweights, you are only a couple of big wins away from title fights.. The loser on Saturday has a long way back to climb, but the winner has several lucrative options, including fights with names like David Price and Dereck Chisora (the latter appearing in a feature bout on the O2 card.) Browne v Allen is not one for the purists, but it has its place in today’s wide open heavyweight landscape..

Jarrell Miller fails drug test, leaving Joshua fight in disarray.

The disappointing news emerged last night ‘Tuesday 16th April’ that world heavyweight title challenger, Jarrell Miller 23-0-1 (20 Ko’s) has failed a random drug test, only 6 weeks away from his June 1st title fight against WBO/WBA & IBF Heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua 22-0 (21 Ko’s) at New York’s, Madison Square Garden.. Millers sample that was collected on March 10th of this year, had traces of the banned substance GW1516, Anti doping agency VADA haven’t released any further details of any action taken against the fighter, but it is expected in the circumstances that Miller May be forced to forfeit his opportunity, leaving only a 6 week window for a replacement to prepare for the date.. Dmitry Salita, the promoter for Miller, commented on social media “We are in the process of obtaining further information about VADA’s finding and will have more to say soon on this developing situation. In the meantime, Jarrell continues to train for his June 1 fight against Anthony Joshua.”
The substance in question Is better known as Cardarine, a drug first produced in the 1990s that was shown in tests on mice to improve their physical performance.. GW1516 soon became a black market substance as an effective athletic performance enhancer.. Doping agencies became most aware or the drug ahead of the 2016 Olympics preempting its prohibition.
Joshua and Hearn are extremely disappointed at the revelation, a lot of time and money has been spent in preparation for this, Joshua’s US debut, Miller was the ideal opponent for the date and Venue, it’s ironic that Miller was the one circulating rumours regarding Joshua’s alleged drug use, before this came to light.. The names rumoured at this time as possible replacements are Trevor Bryan, Luis Ortiz, Michael Hunter Jr, Adam Kownacki and Luis Ortiz.. however the southpaw Ortiz is an unlikely last minute substitute with all considered..

Jermaine Franklin outworks Rydell Booker in entertaining scuffle.

In an entertaining heavyweight co-feature, undefeated Jermaine Franklin 18-0 (13 KOs) faced former Number 1 ranked US Amateur standout, Rydell Booker 25-2 (12 Ko’s) over 10 on the Shields v Hammer card in Atlantic City.. The 25 year old Franklin started aggressively, taking the action to the 38 year old Booker, but found the overweight veteran surprisingly crafty, especially with the counter left hook.. Booker, deceptively agile made the enthusiastic Franklin look foolish with subtle counters.. The anxious youngsters inexperience began to show, as he began to load up on everything he launched at the wily Booker, expending unnecessary energy, largely missing with wide swings.. By the half way mark, it appeared as if Franklin May be heading towards a valuable yet painful lesson, as he twice spat the mouthpiece in order to catch precious time to organise himself.. By round 7 Booker himself was starting to feel the pace, reduced to an almost stationary target for the now more calculated Franklin... The younger man now managing to sustain a steady work rate, was for the first time dictating the fight, with Booker offering the occasional reminder for Franklin to stay switched on.. Both men enjoyed sporadic success throughout the highly entertaining fight, which saw Jermaine emerge a unanimous victor with scores of 99-91 and 98-91 twice..

In the grand scheme of things, the win is a decent result for Franklin, overcoming some crisis moments to turn the fight around against an accomplished fighter.. Booker looked surprisingly fresh considering the back story.. In 2004 Booker was 23-0 going into a heavyweight eliminator with the then still dangerous James Toney, dropping a 12 round decision.. Shortly after his solitary defeat, Booker was sentenced to between 12 and 30 years in jail for drugs offences.. After serving over a decade in prison, Rydell returned to the ring after a 14 year layoff in 2018, scoring 3 comeback wins prior to tonight’s nationally televised opportunity.. Booker, despite the loss looked remarkable with all things considered.. Franklin is an explosive fighter who in time could have a bright future with some fine tuning..

Following the fight, Jermaine acknowledged his faults throughout the bout, self criticising his inability to create space and tendency to be over anxious.. “I need to learn to be more patient because I had him hurt several times, and got over anxious, throwing my whole game plan out of the window.. I’ll fix my mistakes and come back bigger and better next time.. “

A disappointed Booker was a little hard on himself.
“I felt he out-hustled me, but it was a lot closer than how the judges scored it... He was missing me a lot more than it looked, I slipped a lot of shots and hit him clean... I knew he would bring the pressure, but he needs a lot of work. He stays too centered with his head. He’s alright. What he has on his side is youth. I’d rate my performance about a seven... I had a training camp injury I was dealing with. I’m going to stay active and come back stronger than ever.”

Shields outclasses Hammer, Unifies Middleweight championship.

In the feature bout at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, Claressa Shields 9-0 (2 KOs) became the undisputed women’s world middleweight champion, with a dominant unanimous decision victory over Christina Hammer 24-0 (11 KOs) The 24 year old, double Olympic champion, boxed a calculated opening round before completely whitewashing the German visitor with a ruthless yet organised performance.. The bout, one of the first Women’s world title fights, to hold main event status on a mainstream televised promotion, has to be arguably one of the most significant single events in women’s boxing history. Shields, not noted as a huge puncher had the taller Hammer in dreadful trouble in the final rounds, with a high volume of accurate punching.. Hammer found the calculated Shields hard to hit throughout, displaying impressive head movement and great footwork.. The judges scored the bout 98-92 and 98-91 twice, placing Claressa amongst a very limited list of fighters (Terrence Crawford, Bernard Hopkins, Oleksandr Usyk, Jermain Taylor and Cecilia Braekhus) to have unified all four major world Championships in one weight category..

Talking with Showtime’s Steve Farhood following the bout, the often outspoken and highly charged Shields boldly proclaimed  “I am the greatest woman of all time.... I did it. She didn’t win a single round... I almost knocked her out..... I swear I feel like I’m dreaming right now. Thanks to Christina Hammer and her team.... They said she had a hard jab and they weren’t lying. Her jab is off the chain.”

Shields, never one to duck a challenge, expressed her willingness to fight Cecilia Braekhus next, a fight that looks unlikely to materialise going by the Norwegians past record of accepting legitimate challenges.. Claressa’s proclamation of greatness may appear slightly premature, but her achievements to date must place the lady on course for high honours..

Mario Heredia scores upset over Samuel Peter in AC.

In what would be regarded as both a huge upset and a pretty dreadful decision, Mario Heredia 15-6-1 (13 Ko’s) scored a very unpopular split decision victory over 38 year old former WBC heavyweight champion Samuel Peter 37-6 (30 Ko’s) over 8 rounds tonight at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City Nj.. Peter who had made only 4 ring appearances in 8 years prior to tonight’s return, last boxed in this arena 14 years ago, when he ran Wladimir Klitschko to the wire in 2005.. Tonight however, the Nigerian lacked the technical skills that he once possessed and appeared to rely more on single shots, most notably the overhand right.. Peter scored a knockdown in round 2 and looked like he was going to close the show on the oft beaten Mexican, but overeagerly smothered his own work and let Heredia off the hook.. Samuel deserted all defence following the knockdown, and relied more on leaning back and rolling shots, more in the pursuit of landing single punches.. Round 4 was an alarming one for Peter, as Heredia found some ambition, landing far to frequently for comfort on Samuel, who by now had completely abandoned all technical fundamentals, allowing a fighter that is levels beneath him to find the target unperturbed.. Samuel did maintain his composure by the 5th, and again found his mark, hurting Heredia more than once whilst almost walking through return fire.. Peter did seem to eat a few too many shots throughout the remainder of the fight, but controlled the action with well timed jabs and crafty counters.. The taller Heredia looked a little disorganised in the 8th and was forced to smother Peters work on the inside, and survive a late attack from the Nigerian.. Considering the inactivity, Peter didn’t appear to gas and finished the bout relatively fresh, whilst the younger man showed signs of fatigue towards the final stretch.. Samuel boxed within himself, but in my opinion won the bout comfortably, unable to score a stoppage he notched up valuable live rounds against a lively opponent.. The announcement was an unlikely one and it leaves Peter with a hard mountain to climb with all considered.. Scores had it as 77-74, 76-75 Heredia.. and 79-72 Peter.

Bosel scores 8th round stoppage of late substitute Shala in Halle.

European light heavyweight title holder Dominic Bösel 29-1 (11 KOs) scored an eighth round stoppage over late replacement Timy Shala 23-3-1 (9 KOs) tonight at the Erdgas Arena in Halle, Germany. The Champion had Shala on the floor in the 7th, before scoring a technical knockout in the 8th.. Shala got the opportunity as a late substitute for the original opponent Orial Kolaj, who pulled out earlier in the week with a rib injury..

On the undercard, Heavyweight Peter Kadiru 2-0 (1 KO) knocked out Vincenzo Febbo (3-1, 2 KOs) in round 4.. Time was :53.
Light heavyweight Tom Dzemski 12-0 (7 KOs), outworked Josef Jurko 5-1 (3 KOs) over six.. Scores were.. 59-55, 59-55, 58-56. Tom is the son of renowned trainer Dirk Dzemsk.
In a bout for the European female featherweight title, Nina Meinke 9-2 (3 KOs) outpointed Helene Lascombe 5-1 (0 KOs) over ten rounds by scores of 97-94, 99-91 and 97-94.
Former Heavyweight Olympian, Erik Pfeifer 5-0 (3 KOs) never had things all his own way against tough Konsatntyn Dovbyshchenko 4-3-1 (2 KOs) but emerged victorious with a 6 round majority decision.. Scores were 58-56, 59-55 and 57-57.
Welterweight Marcel Hassler 9-0-1 (5 KOs) could only manage to scrape a six round draw against Gkouram Mirzaev 4-2-1 (3 KOs).
Lightweight Nenad Stancic 4-0 (2 KOs) won a six round majority decision over Iago Barros 4-13-2 (2 KOs). Scores were 59-55, 59-55 and 58-58.

The Event was hosted by The Erdgas Arena in Halle, Germany..
Promoted by Uli Steinfort, SES Sports Events..
Broadcast by MDR in Germany.

Lomachenko outguns brave Crolla in 4.

WBA & WBO lightweight champion Vasiliy Lomachenko 13-1 (10 KOs) outclassed mandatory challenger Anthony Crolla (34-7-3, 13 KOs) before stopping him with a crisp right hook in the 4th round of a dominant performance last night at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
The end came when Lomachenko popped a clinical right hand just above the challengers ear, causing the Manchester man to pitch forward face first, forcing referee Jack Reiss to call it off at 0:58 of the session..
Lomachenko boxed patiently, using the opener to find the measure of the defensively minded challenger, before adopting his offensive repertoire midway into the second.. Crolla didn’t appear to show any real sign of ambition, as Lomachenko completely overwhelmed him with speed and accuracy.. Towards the end of the third Vasiliy began to close in, pinning Crolla on the ropes and drilling him with a succession of unanswered punches, Jack Reiss jumped between the fighters, leaving viewers thinking he’d called a stoppage, but as the champion celebrated on the ringpost, it became apparent that he’d only administered an 8 count, as officials had to be quickly moved out of the ring.. The count however, only delayed the inevitable as Lomachenko wasted no time in resuming the onslaught, outgunning the overmatched Crolla in the next session..
The display by Lomachenko was ruthless and very impressive, following the fight, the champion made it clear that wants the Mikey Garcia fight next..

Weights from Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City.

Claressa Shields weighed in 4 ounces heavier than Christina Hammer at 159.4 to 159 pounds, prior to tomorrow’s unification women’s bout at Middleweight, with all of the current belts (IBF, WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO) on the line..

Undercard Weights.
Jermaine Franklin 245 v Rydell Booker 238
Otto Wallin 227 v Nick Kisner 221
Elena Gradinar 124 v Brenda Karen Carabajal 124
Ja’rico O’Quinn 115 v Vicente Alfaro Martinez 115
Samuel Peter 259 v Mario Heredia 275
Jesse Angel Hernandez 122 v Marcus Bates 122
Isiah Seldon 158 v Bryan Goldsby 154

Tomorrow’s Event is hosted by Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City and is promoted by Dmitriy Salita’s, Salita Promotions..
Broadcast by USA Showtime.

A look towards Saturday’s action in Atlantic City and Minneapolis.

This coming weekend brings us some great world title action, from both Minneapolis and Atlantic City.. At the Armory in Minneapolis, former world titlists Peter Quillin 34-1-1 (23 Ko’s) and Caleb Truax 30-4-2 (19 Ko’s) clash in an IBF Super-Middleweight world title eliminator that will be broadcast on FS1 and FOX Deportes as part of a 12 fight card promoted by Leon Margules, Warriors Boxing Promotions.. The card also features an interesting IBF Middleweight title eliminator between Ukraines former title challenger Sergiy Derevyanchenko 12-1 (10 Ko’s) and Germany’s, Jack Culcay 25-3 (13 Ko’s).. Interestingly, both Derevyanchenko and Quillin’s sole defeats came at the hands of Danny Jacobs, who features in one of this years major events on May 4th against Saul Alvarez in Las Vegas..
Over on the Atlantic coast we have a ground breaking Womens Unification finale at Middleweight between double Olympic Gold medalist and current IBF, WBC and WBA belt-holder Claressa Shields 8-0 (2 Ko’s) and WBO champion Christina Hammer 24-0 (11 KOs) It doesn’t get much better as far as female boxing goes, two unbeaten champions, who don’t appear to have much love for one another with all of the respective divisions marbles on the table.. Shields v Hammer is part of a 8 fight card at Atlantic City’s, Boardwalk Hall, that features and IBF interim Women’s featherweight title fight between Elena Gradinar 9-0 and Brenda Carabajal 15-4-1, and interesting heavyweight 10 rounder between undefeated, Jermaine Franklin 17-0 and 38 year old Detroit veteran Rydell Booker 25-1.. Another 10 rounder at heavyweight featuring an unbeaten prospect, Otto Wallin 20-0 of Sweden, against Nick Kisner 21-4-1.. Son of former WBA heavyweight champion Bruce Seldon, Isiah 12-2-1 makes an appearance in a 6 rounder at middleweight.. whilst former WBC Heavyweight champion Samuel Peter 37-6, continues on his comeback with an 8 rounder against Mexico’s Mario Heredia 15-6-1. Sam has only boxed 5 times in the last 8 years, losing notably to IBF number 1 contender Kubrat Pulev back in the December of 2016.. But since returning to the ring 8 weeks ago with a 1 round knockout of Gerardo Escobar 2-21, Peter is reported to have dropped weight and is looking rejuvenated in the gym..

Saturday’s Card is promoted by Dmitriy Salita’s, Salita Promotions and will be broadcast by USA Showtime..

Lomachenko and Crolla make weight.

Weights from Los Angeles..

Vasyl Lomachenko and British challenger Anthony Crolla both weighed in almost identical at 134.4 and 134.8 pounds ahead of their WBA and WBO lightweight championship fight..

Undercard weights..
Zurdo Ramirez 174 v Tommy Karpency 174
Mike Alvardo 139 v Arnold Barboza Jr 140
Alexander Besputin 147 v Alfredo Blanco 146
Janibek Alimkhanuly 160 v Cristian Olivas 159
Guido Vianello 244 v Lawrence Gabriel 208
Ruben Rodriguez 144 v Ramel Snegur 142
Christopher Zavala 129 v Sergio Gonzalez 129
Elvis Rodriguez 139 v Kevin Luna 139

Tomorrow’s Event will be hosted by The Staples Center in Los Angeles, California and will be Promoted by Top Rank.
The Evenings boxing will be streamed live on ESPN+

Bounty Hunter Jr defects to Eddie Hearn and Matchroom.

Former Cruiserweight world title challenger and current heavyweight contender Michael Hunter jr 16-1 (11 Ko’s) has left advisor Al Haymon and defected to Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing USA stable, in search of bigger opportunities via the DAZN broadcasting network.. Michael is currently undefeated at heavyweight, having pulled off a couple of giant killing displays in Europe stopping the highly ranked Alexander Ustinov and the previously undefeated Martin Bakole back in October and November of last year.. Hunter gave a great account of himself in his sole losing effort, whilst challenging for Oleksandr Usyk’s Cruiserweight championship in 2017.. Michael is currently ranked on the fringes of the top 10 at heavyweight and is scheduled to make an appearance on the May 25 card at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland.. The likeable Hunter hasn’t expressed any ambitions at world level yet, but has voiced his wishes to fight for the USBA Heavyweight title, a belt that his deceased father and former heavyweight contender Mike the Bounty Hunter once won..

Jarrett Hurd v Julian Williams undercard unveiled.

The May 11th PBC card from Fairfax Virginia headlined by unbeaten, IBF and WBA 154 pound champion Jarrett Hurd 23-0 (16 Ko’s) and top contender, Julian Williams 26-1-1 (16 Ko’s) has revealed its featured undercard;
Unbeaten featherweight prospect Stephen Fulton 15-0 (7 Ko’s) will meet former champion Paulus Ambunda 27-2 (11 Ko’s) over 12. The Fight Night Extra Card will be broadcast live on FS1 and Fox Deportes, the telecast will also include popular light heavyweight puncher Ahmed Elbiali 18-1 (15 Ko’s) and 19 year old middleweight prospect Lorenzo Simpson 3-0 (2 Ko’s) in a 4 round feature..

The Non-televised remainder of the card features unbeaten Alexandru Marin 17-0 (11 KOs) taking on former world title holder Luis Concepcion 37-7 (26 KOs) in a 12-round super flyweight bout..
Undefeated Greg Outlaw 7-0 (2 KOs) in an 8 rounder at Super lightweight.
Super middleweight contender Demond Nicholson 21-3-1 (20 KOs) in a 10 rounder.
Once-beaten Dravontay Rawls takes on Jonathan Perez in an 8 rounder at lightweight Unbeaten Aaron Anderson merts Peru’s Carlos Galindo over 4 at Super welterweight. Mark Duncan takes on Kevin Womack over 6, again at Super welterweight.
Unbeaten Mario Barrios battles Argentina’s Juan Jose Velasco in a 10 rounder at Super lightweight while tough middleweight contender Matt Korobov takes on Immanuwel Aleem in a 10 rounder that is scheduled to be added to the televised portion on FOX.

The Card will be hosted by The EagleBank Arena in Fairfax Virginia and is promoted by Premier Boxing Champions.

Fury v Schwarz heads to the MGM Grand Garden Arena and will be shown on ESPN+

The Las Vegas debut of unbeaten former unified heavyweight champion Tyson Fury 27-0-1 (19 Ko’s) against undefeated Tom Schwarz 24-0 (16 Ko’s) will be at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on June 15th.. Top Rank Inc will co-promote the fight in association with Frank Warren, Queensbury and SES boxing promotions and will be broadcast live across the United States, exclusively on ESPN+.
Fury will be returning to the ring for the first time since his sensational challenge for Deontay Wilders WBC title in December.. Tom Schwarz is a significant step down in class for Fury as an opponent regardless of the Germans unblemished record.. The 24 year old has been a professional now for 6 years and in his 25 victories, only four names appear recognisable, Tomas Mrazec, Konstantin Airich, Senad Gashi and more recently 17-1 Kristijan Krstacic..
The Schwarz v Fury bout is the first of a multi fight deal that was secured by the Brit in February, possibly culminating in a future bout with either Deontay Wilder or Anthony Joshua..

Steve Forbes returned to the ring in Oregon, Saturday, with a Win.

After four year away from the ring, former IBF jr lightweight champion Steve Forbes (36-14, 11 KOs) returned on Saturday night at the Clackamas Armory in Clackamas, Oregon, to score a unanimous decision victory over the tricky Tavorus Teague (6-26-4, 3 KOs). Featuring as the main bout on his own 2Pound Sports & Entertainment promotions card, Forbes had to work out Teague’s awkward style to eventually maintain the upper hand over the majority of the fight.
Teague, of Paramount, California, has his moments from range and enjoyed an encouraging start to the fight, landing first with crisp right hands. Forbes however stuck to task and eventually closed the distance, landing crafty counters frequently.. Half way through the fight Teague had been forced to fight at close range more to Forbes’ advantage yet still had his successes, stunning Forbes at the end of the fifth..
Forbes continued to maintain a constant work rate down the stretch, something Teague struggled with, and although trading at times, didn’t let his hands work enough to subdue the former champion..
Forbes finished much the stronger, with the Californian adopting a more defensive approach towards the end.. All three judges saw the fight in favour of Forbes..
Scores were 69-64, 68-65, and 67-66.

“I was happy to get the rounds in,” said Forbes after the fight. “I was happy to work on the things we worked on in the gym. His style was so awkward. I’d never fought a guy like that. It was a good test for me…I’m going to keep coming down in weight and this was a good way to test my strength a little bit. This guy is more of a middleweight than anything else…I felt good in there coming back after so many years.”
“I know we’ve got some stuff to work on, but overall it was good. My defense was good, and we were safe in there. A couple times I got a little lackadaisical in there because I knew he couldn’t hurt me, and I was trying to get a good shot in. But other than that, I feel good with it…we’ll be back in August.”

Leo, Martinez and Hunter all victorious at Sam’s Town.

Last night at Sam’s Town Casino resort in Las Vegas, three of the featured unbeaten prospects made their first appearance on the ShoBox, The Next Generation platform..

In the evenings feature bouts, super bantamweight Angelo Leo (17-0, 8 KOs) won a lopsided ten round unanimous decision over Neil John Tabanao (17-5, 11 KOs). Scores were 100-89, 100-90, 100-90.
Super featherweight Xavier Martinez (14-0, 10 KOs) outclassed John Moralde (21-3, 11 KOs) from the start, eventually scoring knockdown and a third round TKO. Time was 1.11.

Super featherweight Andres Cortes (11-0, 6 KOs) took an eight round unanimous decision over Jahmal Dyer (9-2, 5 KOs) in an entertaining battle.. Dyer scored a knockdown over Cortes in round four, yet Cortes appeared to rally back, winning by scores of 78-73, 79-73, 78-74.

Local Welterweight Cameron Krael (16-13-3, 4 KOs) won a ten round unanimous decision over Angel Hernandez (15-12-2, 9KOs). Scores were 99-91, 97-93, 98-92.

Featherweight Kingdamon Antoine (9-0, 7 KOs) whitewashed Raheem Abdullah (3-2, 0 KOs) 60-54 on all three cards.

Popular Welterweight Keith Hunter (10-0, 7 KOs) dropped the spirited Sanjarbek Rakhmanov (11-2-1, 5 KOs) in the second round before earning an eight round split decision victory in an important step up bout.. Scores were 77-74, 76-75 for Hunter and 76-75 for Rakhmanov.

Super middleweight Kevin Newman II (9-1-1, 5 KOs) knocked out Cesar Ugarte (8-4, 6 KOs) in the opener..

Welterweight Maurice Lee (10-1-2, 5 KOs) closed out the show by outpointing Andre Byrd (7-6-2, 1 KO) over six by scores of 58-56, 59-55, 58-56.

The card was presented by Mayweather Promotions (Leonard Ellerbe)

Martin Bakole returns spectacularly to stop Mariusz Wach in 8.

Tonight at the Spodek Events Center in Katowice, Poland, Scottish based Congolese heavyweight, Martin Bakole 11-1 (8 Ko’s) returned from defeat and injury in his October bout with Michael Hunter to pull off an impressive stoppage of former world title challenger Mariusz Wach 33-4 (17 Ko’s). The fight swung both ways with the huge Pole making things awkward for Bakole in the early rounds.. Bakole did manage to get the better of the quality exchanges in the middle rounds as Wach began to labour.. After round 6, it did appear that Bakole was in complete control, landing clusters of what seemed to be effortless punches on several occasions.. Wach stood fast and attempted to return fire with sneaky counters, but Martin looked too sharp to be denied on this night.. Bakole spent the first half of the 8th round setting Wach up, and making the pedestrian fighter use his legs, until with 37 seconds left in the session, Bakole put together a rally of 14 unanswered shots that coerced the referee to intervene and call a halt.. An impressive return to the ring following such a disappointing and anti climatic night last October.. Bakole looked a far more prepared fighter tonight and showed that he really is one to be respected.. The 8th round TKO victory earns Bakole the Polish International Heavyweight title, for all that its worth..

Weights from Katowice, Poland.

Weigh in results from Spodek Events centre in Katowice Poland.

At Heavyweight, Mariusz Wach weighed in at 262 pounds, a single pound lighter than Martin Bakole Who tipped in at 263 pounds.. (18 Stone 11 pounds)

Super-Middleweights, Robert Parzeczewski and Dmitrii Chudinov both tipped in at 167 pounds.

Undercard..
Damian Wrzesinski 138.9 vs. Kamil Mlodzinski 139.6
Damian Jonak 159.8 vs. Andrew Robinson 159.2
Patryk Szymanski 160.9 vs. Robert Talarek 159.8

Tonight’s event is promoted by; MB Promotions
Televised by PolSat Sport HD (Poland)

Marsellos Wilder tests positive for banned substance following recent victory in Texas.

The extremely outspoken, once beaten cruiserweight, brother of WBC heavyweight champion Deontay, Marsellos Wilder 3-1 (2 Ko’s) is reported to have failed a drug test, following his March 16th bout with Mark Sanchez 0-2, on the Errol Spence v Mikey Garcia card in Arlington Texas.. The bout which was initially registered as a first round knockout in favour of the 29 year old Wilder, has now been changed to a No Contest. The Texas bout was to have been Marcellos’ return to victory following his January 26th stoppage defeat at the hands of William Deets 6-12, in Brooklyn.. It’s tough to see a way that anyone could take Wilders career seriously now, in 5 appearances at close to 30 years of age, with limited amateur boxing experience, he’s suffered a loss and a positive substance test result, boxing against an opposition level with a total of 7 wins and 25 losses.. There has been no details yet released regarding the substance (Being a PED or recreational) neither are there and known details yet of the suspension Wilder will face.. Heavyweight brother Deontay is due to face number one challenger Dominick Breazeale in a grudge match on May 18th in Brooklyn, a match that has materialised partially due to an altercation Breazeale had with Marcellos Wilder back in February of 2017, following Deontays victory over Gerald Washington in Birmingham Alabama.. It’s probably safe to say at this point, that there really is only one fighter in the Wilder household, with Marsellos’ career grinding to a premature halt before it even got started..

Martin Bakole returns tomorrow in Poland against Mariusz Wach.

Tomorrow night, April 6th, Scottish based Congolese Heavyweight Martin Bakole 11-1 (8 Ko’s) makes the first return to the ring following his disappointing loss to Bounty Hunter Jr back in October, travelling to Katowice, Poland, where he makes the bold step of meeting former world title challenger Mariusz Wach 33-4 (17 Ko’s) over 10 rounds for the Polish International Heavyweight title.. Wach is coming off losses to Artur Szpilka and Jarrell Miller, but did manage to pull off a decent scalp 3 fights ago, back in 2017 when he outpointed tough Erkan Teper in Leipzig.. Bakole v Wach is part of a seven fight card, headlined by super middleweights Robert Parzeczewski and Dmitrii Chudinov..

The Card is hosted by the Polish Profesional boxing department and promoted by Mateusz Borek - MB Promotions..

The Event will be broadcast by Poland Pol-Sat Sport HD..

Oleksandr Usyk faces Carlos Takam, May 25th.

Undisputed world cruiserweight champion Oleksandr Usyk takes his first step into heavyweight waters when he faces tough Carlos Takam at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland on May 25, live on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports in the UK.
Usyk (16-0, 12 KOs) has been the lightning rod in the cruiserweight division over the last 3 years, cleaning up the WBSS with his dominant victory over Murat Gassiev last July to become the first unified cruiserweight ruler since O’Neil Bell and possibly the most complete cruiserweight since Evander Holyfield, 3 decades ago..
Usyk made a bold statement last November in Manchester where he Knocked out Tony Bellew in the eighth round in his seventh world title victory and what now seems to have been a farewell performance in the 200 pound division..
Usyk has chosen a live test for his heavyweight debut, French based Takam 36-5-1 (28 Ko’s) has boxed some of the premiere fighters in the division, and 2 years ago gave a great account of himself in a world title challenge for Anthony Joshua’s IBF and WBA titles on short notice, dragging Joshua into the tenth round and breaking the champions nose.. Takam also gave solid accounts of himself against Joseph Parker and Dereck Chisora, losing out narrowly on both occasions..

“May 25 marks a major moment in my career when I move to the Heavyweight division,” said Usyk. “At cruiserweight, I did it all and became the undisputed champion and that is my goal now in the Heavyweights.

“This is the ultimate challenge and it begins on May 25 against Carlos Takam. It’s a tough first fight but I need to test myself against World class opposition on my new road to undisputed.”

“Usyk has achieved everything in the Cruiserweight division – I am ready to welcome him to the new world of Heavyweight boxing,” said Takam. “I can promise that this will be a great fight and I will provide Usyk with a huge test on his Heavyweight debut. I have huge ambitions of my own in the division and this fight will provide me with the chance to prove that.”

In an era of supersized heavyweights, Usyk is faced with an uphill struggle by naturally giving away very obvious mechanical advantages to the title holders, but by bringing more technical tools to the table, along with mobility and speed, Usyk may provide us with some very interesting entertainment over the next 12 months.. Usyk won Olympic gold at heavyweight back in 2012, but had previously boxed at super heavyweight, and in the WSB series beat our own Olympic Super-heavyweight silver medalist Joe Joyce, displaying cameos of what we should expect come May..

No undercard details have yet been released...

Shakur Stevenson, arrested and charged, following Miami brawl.

Just days after his 21st birthday, Olympic silver medalist Shakur Stevenson was arrested and apparently charged with misdemeanour battery, following his alleged role in a Miami parking garage brawl.. Apparently Stevenson and fellow fighter, David Grayton, a 31 year old, 15-2-1 (11 Ko’s) welterweight from DC, we’re caught on Closed Circuit surveillance, brawling with a group of individuals next to a parking garage pay booth.. According to statements made to Miami police, both fighters made comments to the group whilst inside the garage, a group which included two females, to whom explicit sexual references were directed at, igniting the incident..
According to the police report, one Male and one female were treated by medical staff at the scene, both described as visibly injured.. Stevenson and Grayton had fled the scene by the time police had arrived, but were both apprehended an hour later at a South Beach Hotel, where both fighters had superficial injuries to suggest their involvement.. (Stevenson having a cut lip, and Grayton grazed knuckles.)
Authorities later checked CCTV footage, which has since been publicly released, and the outcome looks quite ominous for the pair..
Stevenson (7-0, 4 KO) has been extremely active, fighting eight weeks since December, Grayton is coming off a loss to Miguel Cruz back in November.
Prior to this incident, Stevenson was scheduled to meet Carlos Ruiz on August 18th as part of the Bryant Jennings-Alexander Dimitrenko undercard, but having viewed the footage, that appearance may be is a degree of doubt..
Shakur up to this point has never shown any particular history of this type of nature and had previously been publicly admired for his exemplary conduct as a rising young Olympian..
Fame and fortune really hasn’t reached Stevenson as of yet, let’s hope this incident isn’t a prelude to what we could expect from him as his popularity heightens.. Previous recent examples set by Adrien Broner should have acted as a deterrent for young fighters in their position, but sometimes just like the saying goes.. “Youth is wasted on the young.”

Greg Cohen lodges protest to CSAC following Dinu’s loss to Pulev.

The Promoter of Heavyweight Bogdan Dinu, Greg Cohen has filed an appeal for the Change of Decision, with the California State Athletic Commission for his fighter, following his knockout loss against Kubrat Pulev on March 23 at The Hangar in Costa Mesa, California.
The details of the lodged protest underlines Pulev’s repeated rabbit punches, including an ‘Intentional’ shot to the back of Dinu’s head shortly before the stoppage, as the fighter was “On his knees and defenceless.”
Pulev was penalized a point by referee Raul Caiz for the foul, and when the action resumed Dinu was knocked down twice more by borderline legal punches clearly landing close to the back of his head before the bout was halted at 2:40 of the 7th, being scored as a TKO victory for the Bulgarian.
The California commission has agreed to hear out Cohen’s appeal, with a hearing date scheduled for May 14th..
It’s very rare that any commission changes a fight result on the strength of an appeal hearing, after the facts.. undermining the officiating at the time.. Pulev did land shots that appeared illegal during the bout, but in the instance of the rabbit punch that was thrown ‘Intentionally’ as Dinu was on his knees, to Pulev’s defence, Bogdan was dipping and crouching low, repeatedly just prior to going to his knees.. In a fight where the highly ranked Pulev was cut and anxious to put his opponent away, there is a case for the accused fighter being unsighted in the specific instance.. Pulev is no saint, and the fight wasn’t his finest hour, but I doubt that Mr Cohen and his fighter will find success from the appeal.. I don’t blame Greg for his claims, it’s his business and in the same position I’d probably represent my fighter in the same way.

Undefeated Angelo Leo headlines Mayweather Promotions show at Samstown this coming Saturday.

This coming Saturday, Mayweather Promotions is televising possibly the only tv card of any note, from Sams Town Hotel and Gambling Hall in Las Vegas Nv. Headlining the card is undefeated local featherweight Angelo Leo 16-0 (8 Ko’s) taking on Filipino visitor, Neil John Tabanao 17-4 (11 Ko’s) over 10 rounds..
The card also features undefeated Xavier Martinez 13-0 (9 Ko’s) of Sacramento, as he meets another visiting Filipino, John Vincent Moralde 21-2 (11 Ko’s) over 10 at Super featherweight.
Popular Welterweight Cameron Krael 15-13-3 (4 Ko’s) takes on Texan, Angel Hernandez 15-12-2 (9 Ko’s) in the final 10 round feature bout of the night..
Heading the undercard, Unbeaten Las Vegas super featherweight Andres Cortes 10-0 (6 Ko’s) meets Maryland’s, Jahmal Dyer 9-1 (5 Ko’s) over 8 rounds..
26 year old, welterweight son of former heavyweight contender Mike The Bounty Hunter, Keith Hunter 9-0 (7 Ko’s) steps up as he meets Las Vegas based Uzbek, Sanjarbek Rakhmanov 11-1-1 (5 Ko’s) over 8.
8-1-1 Super-Middleweight, Kevin Newman II, meets 8-3 Cesar Lopez Ugarte over 8, with featherweights Kingdamon Antoine 8-0 and Raheem Abdullah 3-1 rounding off the evening in a conclusive 6 rounder..

The Samstown show will be broadcast by Showtime in the United States.

Heavyweight Kash Ali faces consequences following Saturdays biting incident.

Following the atrocious episode that led to the disqualification of Rotherham Heavyweight Kash Ali on Saturday in Liverpool, the British Boxing board of control has suspended the fighter indefinitely pending a future hearing, to allow Ali the opportunity to justify his actions.. Ali was losing Saturdays fight, and twice resorted to biting his opponent David Price, first in the second round and later at the conclusion of the bout where he wrestled Price to the canvas and bit the Liverpool mans mid section, leaving noticeable teeth marks.. Kash has already had his purse for the fight (£24,000) his career highest earnings, withheld, and could face a lengthy suspension and the possibility of a further fine.. Ali had never boxed on a high profile stage before and it may be some time until a similar opportunity arises.. Price appeared slightly more forgiving after the event, explaining how Ali was actually in the fight, and really had no need for his extreme actions.. Ali made a brief interview after the fact, where he embarrassingly explained that he has no excuse and really doesn’t know the reasoning behind the biting, offering what appeared as a genuine apology to Price.. The rematch looks unlikely, with David looking ahead to possibly meeting the winner of the upcoming David Allen v Lucas Browne fight.

Popular heavyweight Stan Allen, passes in Las Vegas..

Today brought the terribly sad news that my friend and former promising heavyweight prospect Stanley Allen had passed away in Las Vegas at the premature age of 47.. I first had the fortune of meeting Stan when he was part of the training camp of former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in 1996, along with longtime friends, Nate Tubbs, John Bray and Leroy Seals.. I was originally introduced to him by extrovert photographer Kirk Newman, and spent the best part of the following 3 weeks in hysterical laughter at his dry humour.. Stan was undeniably tough, I witnessed first hand how he could hang in there with Tyson through tough sessions leading up to both Holyfield fights, but Stan had a softer side, a mellow guy who loved his family.. Allen found boxing as a teen in Gary Indiana, boxing out of the Gary Pal Gym.. By 1989 he was a member of the US team and in the same year became the Chicago Novice Golden Gloves heavyweight champion.. Stan turned pro in 1996, racking up 5 straight wins in his first 18 months, finishing the year with an appearance on a double world championship Top Rank promoted card in Tijuana, Mexico, knocking out the huge Anthony Curry in 3 rounds.. Unfortunately it appeared that his work as a top drawer sparring partner for a legendary champion would take precedence over his own career, he would lose his first bout on the Vince Philips v Alfonso Sánchez world super lightweight championship fight undercard in 1998 to Philadelphia’s Ron McCarthy in Atlantic City, before dropping a points decision to rising prospect Harold Sconiers 6 months later on a heavyweight Explosion card in Connecticut.. Stan returned to the ring a couple more times, most recently in 2012, taking on 24 year old son of another former Tyson sparring partner Elijah McCall, falling short for the final time.. Nobody that Stanley crossed paths with forgot him, when he travelled to the Uk for Mike Tyson’s visits to fight both Julius Francis and Lou Savarese, Stan made an impression on everyone he met, a colourful charming man who had a calming presence.. A loyal man who put his family and friends first, whom is going to be missed immensely.. RIP Stan.. affectionately known as Corky.. Stanley Allen, you were loved..