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WBC/IBF/WBO light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev and challenger Callum Smith faced off at the final press conference for their world title clash on ESPN Saturday night at the Videotron Centre in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.

Artur Beterbiev: “I’m excited, just like I am for every fight. For this fight, we prepared like we usually do, which is at 100 percent…I’m focused on this fight. I’m happy that my supporters are coming to watch us. But I have things to do.”

Callum Smith: “This will be exciting. He’s a very good fighter. He’s a three-belt champion, so his achievements speak for themselves. But, I believe in myself. I always have. I believe that the best version of me can beat anyone in the world. I fully stand by that.”

The proceedings were all business with no handshake after the face-off. Beterbiev reportedly is upset at Smith for allegedly misrepresenting an “atypical” VADA test he (Beterbiev) had in December. Beterbiev was cleared after follow-up testing proved negative. An “atypical” result is different than an “adverse finding” and doesn’t necessarily represent use of a banned substance.

Keeps WBO AP 135lb belt

By Joe Koizumi
Photos by Naoki Fukuda

In the first show of 2024 in Japan, once-beaten southpaw WBO#13 Katsuya Yasuda (13-1, 8 KOs), 134.75, kept his WBO Asia Pacific lightweight belt when he decked #11 compatriot Ruito Saeki (10-6-1, 3 KOs), 134.25, twice, in rounds two and three, and accelerated his attack to halt him at 1:23 of the ninth round in a scheduled twelve on Tuesday in Tokyo, Japan.

For Yasuda, 31, it was his second defense since he acquired the vacant regional belt by outscoring Thailander Apichet Petchmanee this June. The 25-year-old Saeki, however, showed his heart to retaliate well despite his left optic badly puffed and almost closed until the ref Nakamura declared a halt. The loser strongly claimed he could still go on upon the seemingly well-timed stoppage. Continue reading “WBO#13 Yasuda stops Saeki”

Two rising talents are set to put their perfect records on the line as part of the ESPN-televised tripleheader headlined by the WBC junior lightweight showdown between reigning champ O’Shaquie “Ice Water” Foster and Abraham “El Super” Nova on February 16 at The Theater at Madison Square Garden.

In the 10-round junior lightweight co-feature, Andres “Savage” Cortes (20-0, 11 KOs) takes on Bryan Chevalier (20-1-1, 16 KOs). Also, rising featherweight Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (10-0, 6 KOs) will face Bernard Torres (18-1, 8 KOs) in the 10-round televised opener.

The ESPN+ streamed undercard features:

2016 Italian Olympian Guido “The Gladiator” Vianello (11-1-1, 9 KOs) battles Moses Johnson (11-1-2, 8 KOs) in an eight-round heavyweight contest.

Junior welterweight prospect Tiger Johnson (11-0, 5 KOs), a U.S. Olympian, makes his 2024 debut in an eight-rounder against Paulo Galdino (13-7-2, 9 KOs).

Unbeaten junior lightweight prospect Ofacio Falcon (10-0, 6 KOs) will make his second appearance at The Theater against Edward Ceballos (11-4-1, 6 KOs).

Middleweight prospect Euri Cedeno (7-0-1, 6 KOs), who represented the Dominican Republic at the Tokyo Olympics, goes against Antonio Todd (15-9, 9 KOs) in an eight-rounder.

Middleweight Isaah Flaherty (6-0, 3 KOs) will see action in a six-rounder against an opponent to be named.

By Jeff Zimmerman

The legendary Fernando Vargas, at his new Las Vegas gym, shared his relationship with the Garcias, especially Robert’s and Mikey’s dad, “El Jefe.” He talked about his relationship with his three fighting sons, Fernando Jr, Amado and Emiliano and how he never wanted them to box. Vargas also showed love for his fans and gave his thoughts on Spence Jr fighting again and much more in this Fightnews.com® exclusive.

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Two of the three Vargas Bros, Fernando Jr and Amado plus Gabriel Flores Jr. talked about their careers and the family atmosphere at the new gym of Fernando Vargas in Las Vegas where they teach boxing and jujitsu. The Vargas brothers talked about getting to the sport late as they were standout athletes in other sports whereas their youngest brother, Emiliano, started around 10 years old and is signed by Top Rank. Flores Jr was the youngest signee by Top Rank at 16 and is still only 23. All three are expected to fight March 16 at the Stockton Arena in Stockton, CA where Flores Jr is a hometown hero. The show will be promoted by G-SQUAD Entertainment run by Flores Jr dad and trainer, Gabriel Flores Sr.

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A Tale Of Ten Punches: Beterbiev vs Smith. Take an inside look at how Artur Beterbiev and Callum Smith will collide in their light heavyweight showdown.

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Unbeaten unified light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev (19-0, 19 KOs) is a 5:1 favorite to keep his WBC/WBO/IBF world titles against former super middleweight champion Callum “Mundo” Smith (29-1, 21 KOs) on ESPN Saturday night at the Videotron Center in Quebec City, Canada. Beterbiev turns 39 years of age eight days after the fight. Smith is 33.

WBO bantamweight champion Jason “Mayhem” Moloney (26-2, 19 KOs) is a 4:1 favorite to defend his world title against Saul Sanchez (20-2, 12 KOs).

Unbeaten WBC #1, WBA #1, IBF #3, WBO #5 super middleweight Christian Mbilli (25-0, 21 KOs) is a whopping 12:1 favorite to defeat Rohan Murdock (27-2, 19 KOs).

By Mauricio Sulaimán
Son of José Sulaimán – President of the WBC

The Christmas season has officially ended, and it’s time to knuckle down with willpower to lose those extra pounds we gained. As I previously explained, Mexico calls this the Guadalupe-Reyes Marathon, as there are daily parties from December 12 until January 6 with tamales, hot chocolate, some tequila, of course, and a variety of Mexican dishes to celebrate with friends and family … so we all start the year with a big belly, but with will to have a healthier one.

I sincerely hope that you have spent a Christmas season of peace, joy, and happiness with your loved ones and friends. Continue reading “A Great Year Begins for the WBC”

Former unified welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. is recovering from surgery to his right eye to remove a cataract.

Spence stated on Instagram, “Had to get cataract surgery. It’s been past due. Sh*t was covering my eye…why you think I got hit with so many jabs ‘n hooks? Still a great performance by bro.”

The surgery obviously throws a wrench into Spence’s contractually mandated rematch with Terence Crawford.

Julio Cesar Chavez Sr: Thank you for being on the lookout and worrying about my son Julio. Unfortunately, I confirm the news that spread today. My son Julio Cesar Chavez Jr was arrested and we are working together with his lawyers to resolve his legal situation.

It’s been a long road, but I don’t lose faith. I pray to God that this is the moment that finally propels my son towards a useful and happy life.

I ask for your understanding, [but] due to legal issues we cannot provide more information. His lawyer Guadalupe Valencia is with him at the moment.

Thanks for everything and blessings,
Julio Cesar Chavez

By TMZ.com

Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. was arrested for illegal possession of an assault rifle this weekend in L.A. … after cops were called to the scene by a concerned fan who believed the boxer may be a danger to himself or others.

TMZ Sports has learned the 37-year-old former champ, son of the legendary Mexican pugilist Julio Cesar Chavez Sr., was taken into custody by LAPD around 1:30 PM … after Jr. permitted responding officers to enter his home, where they located the illegal rifle.

Law enforcement sources tell us the weapon was an untraceable “ghost gun.” Continue reading “Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. Arrested”

Nevada State Athletic Commission Statement: On January 6, 2024, a contest was held between Vergil Ortiz and Fredick Lawson in Las Vegas, Nevada. The contest was under the jurisdiction of the Nevada State Athletic Commission. The health and safety of the unarmed combatants that compete in the state are paramount to the Commission. All contestants in the event were subject to full medical examinations and were cleared by medical experts to compete without restrictions. The Commission and its Executive Director will continue its ongoing practice of reviewing its official’s performance during and after an event.

In this week’s big fight, unbeaten light heavyweight destroyer Artur Beterbiev (19-0, 19 KOs) defends his unified WBC/WBO/IBF world titles against former supermiddle champion Callum Smith (29-1, 21 KOs) on Saturday night at the Videotron Center in Quebec City, Canada. ESPN will televise.

In another world title fight on the card, WBO bantamweight champion Jason “Mayhem” Moloney (26-2, 19 KOs) will defend his WBO world title against Saul Sanchez (20-2, 12 KOs).

Also, WBC #1, WBA #1, IBF #3, WBO #5 super middleweight Christian Mbilli (25-0, 21 KOs) faces Rohan Murdock (27-2, 19 KOs) in a ten-rounder.

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Also on Saturday, DAZN has picked up a boxing event from Yas Links Golf Course in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Formerly world-rated super featherweight Moussa Gholam (20-1, 12 KOs) meets Baby” Lunga Sitemela (15-1, 9 KOs) in the 10-round main event.

WBC #15 super welterweight “King” Callum Walsh (9-0, 7 KOs), of Cork, Ireland will return to The Theater at Madison Square Garden on March 15, broadcast globally on UFC Fightpass. The opponent is TBA.

“I’m honored to be fighting again at Madison Square Garden on St. Patrick’s Pay Weekend,” said Walsh. “The entire fight week experience in New York City was tremendous and I know the atmosphere this time will be even more electric with more fans coming over from Ireland.”

By Damon Gonzalez/LatinBox Communications

The Class of 2024 for Florida Boxing Hall of Fame was announced this weekend during a gala event at the SJC Boxing Gym in Fort Myers, Florida. Induction Weekend will again be at the St. Petersburg Hilton Lake Carillon. Dates are June 21, 22 and 23.

Fighters: John John Molina, Raul Frank, Edner Cherry, Jose Alonzo, David Diaz, Stacy Prestage, Saoul Mamby*, Arthur Williams*

Trainer/Managers: Willie Vargas, Sherman Henson

Promoters: Khalilah Escalera

Media: Jorge Ebro

Participants: John Beninati, Carl King, Raul Alvarez, Marc Hager

Officials/Commission: Chris Young, Dr. Mark Gordon, Tim Shipman, Kathy Gentile

Special Achievement Award: Ivan Echevarria, Carlos Albuerne

Walter A Flansburg Lifetime Award: Geri Atkinson-Hazelton

Three Lions Promotions will present their first show of 2024 on March 30 at the Hamilton Convention Centre in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. In the main event, unbeaten middleweight Antonio Napolitano (8-0-1, 4 KOs) and Ryan Young (15-5, 11 KOs) meet in a ten rounder for the NCC Canadian title.

The co-main event will see undefeated Canadian super middleweight champion John Michael Bianco (7-0-0, 3 KOs) against Kristaps Bulmeistars (11-2, 5 KOs) of Riga, Latvia. Continue reading “Boxing back in Hamilton, ON”

Ramon Arellano (Arellano Boxing) presents a night of boxing January 18th in Nashville, Tennessee. The site location will be the popular San Jose Fiesta Mexican restaurant owned by Arellano. The six round super lightweight main event will feature unbeaten Stacey Selby (4-0, 3 KOs) vs veteran Marlon Lewis (6-13-2, 3 KOs). Continue reading “Jan 18 Nashville card announced”

Referee Tony Weeks seemed to explain his quick stoppage of the Ortiz-Lawson fight in a since deleted Facebook post.

Tony Weeks: “What the public didn’t know [was] that prior to the fight they did a brain scan on [Lawson], and it came up that he had an aneurysm, and they did a test again, and the same aneurysm came up. Another doctor was brought in and gave him the same examination and he tested negative for the aneurysm, so they cleared him to fight.”

Golden Boy Promotions issued the following response:

Golden Boy Promotions Statement: “Fredrick Lawson was cleared by a Nevada State Athletic Commission sanctioned doctor to fight on Saturday night. All other questions should be referred to NSAC.”

By Miguel Maravilla

Following his victory, Vergil Ortiz, Jr. (20-0, 20 KOs) spoke to the media about his first round TKO over Fredrick “General Okunka” Lawson (30-4, 22 KOs) of Ghana. Joining him at the post fight press conference was his promoter Oscar De La Hoya as they spoke about Ortiz’s future and matching him up with WBO super welterweight champion Tim Tszyu.

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Undefeated super welterweight Vergil Ortiz, Jr. (20-0, 20 KOs) returned after 17 months to score a first round stoppage of Fredrick “General Okunka” Lawson with an assist from referee Tony Weeks.

“I’m ready for anyone. It felt like I’m back to doing what I usually do,” said Ortiz Jr. afterward. “This is my calling. This is what I was made to do and I want to continue doing this…there’s a lot of fighters that I want to fight, but Tim Tszyu, with all due respect, I want him next. He’s a hell of a fighter and it would be an honor to take him next.”

Ortiz and Tszyu later had a brief exchange on social media.

Tim Tszyu: “Yo Vergil Ortiz. Welcome to the “54 club. I’m always keen for a modern day classic.”

Vergil Ortiz Jr: “I knew you would be man! Let’s do it.”

40-yeqr-old “El Tigre” Ismael Barroso (25-4-2, 23 KOs) proved he still has much to give by winning the WBA interim super lightweight title with a first-round demolition of WBA #1 rated Ohara “Two Tanks” Davies on Saturday night in Las Vegas. Barroso was returning after a controversial stoppage loss against Rolly Romero in his previous fight.

“When I started boxing, they told me that I have a lot of power, and with God on my side I have that power,” said Barroso. “When I threw the first punch, I knew I had hurt him. I knew that I had him.

“The public has been calling for the fight with Romero, and I just want to say, I’m right here!”

Golden Boy Promotions has kicked off 2024 with the signing of former U.S. Olympian and former super lightweight world champion Jose Ramirez (28-1, 18 KOs).

“I’m ready to be a two-time world champion, and do it right now as well as stay active this year,” said Ramirez. “I felt Oscar and Golden Boy could deliver both immediately as well as some big fights at this point in my career that I want. This is the most motivated I have been since I turned pro.”

Ramirez was formerly promoted by Top Rank.

By Miguel Maravilla at ringside

Undefeated knockout artist Vergil Ortiz, Jr. (20-0, 20 KOs) scored a first round TKO against Fredrick “General Okunka” Lawson (30-4, 22 KOs) on Saturday night at the Virgin Hotels in Las Vegas. Now competing at super welterweight following 17 months out of the ring, Ortiz, looked to let out some ring rust, connected early in the first with a short left that staggered Lawson. Continuing to attack, Ortiz followed up with a series of unanswered punches as Lawson shelled up. Referee Tony Weeks stepped in too early, prematurely stopping the fight at 2:43 of the first, drawing a reaction of boos from the crowd. Following the fight, Ortiz went on to call out WBO super welterweight champion Tim Tzsyu.

In the co-feature bout of the evening, Venezuela’s Ismael Barroso (25-4-2, 23 KOs) scored a first round knockout over Ohara “Two Tanks” Davies (25-3, 18 KOs). A counter left dropped Davies early on. He got up and Barroso sent him to the canvas a second time. He got up once again but was unresponsive forcing the referee to stop the fight at 1:53 of the first round. The 40-year-old Barroso wins the WBA interim super lightweight title.

WBO #1 super lightweight Arnold Barbosa Jr. (29-0, 11 KOs) of El Monte returned to the ring in his Golden Boy Promotions debut to stop Xolisani Ndongeni (31-4, 18 KOs) of Eastern Cape, South Africa in eight. Continue reading “Ortiz halts Lawson, Barroso destroys Davies”

Unbeaten light heavyweight Dusty Hernandez Harrison (36-0-1, 22 KOs) scored a fourth round KO over Norberto Gonzalez (24-15, 13 KOs) on Saturday night at the Acca Shriners Center in Richmond, Virginia. Harrison began teeing off on Gonzalez in round two and it was target practice until Gonzalez went down in round four. Time was 2:21.

Welterweight Crisanto “Chingon” Lucio (7-1, 4 KOs) halted Vonshetha Miller (1-3, 1 KO) in round five. A body shot in round five took everything out of Miller and the referee stopped the bout. Time was 2:27.

42-year-old welterweight Jared Wells won his pro debut with a four round unanimous decision over Jashawn Hunter (1-7, 1 KO). Scores were 40-36 3x.

Popular 140lb contender Ryan Garcia has switched gears on a fight against WBC super lightweight champion Devin Haney, which the two had been talking up in recent weeks. Garcia announced on social media Saturday that he instead plans to challenge WBA super lightweight champion Rolly Romero.

Ryan Garcia: “I’ve notified my team I’m going a different route. My intent now is to fight Rolando Romero. I pray my team backs me on this decision. Oscar make this fight happen. THATS THE MOVE. BIGGER FIGHT, BIGGER BUSINESS…After what happens to Rollies, the Dev fight will be there and even bigger. Everyone critiquing now will end up seeing it was a better move. Plus he can go fight Richardson Hitchens. Go do your 30k PPV buys. I don’t need you Dev, you need me.”

Devin Haney: “Don’t ever mention my name p*ssy boi.”

Ryan Garcia: “You’ll be back.”

Meanwhile, Romero tweeted a homemade Rolly-Kingry fight poster with the hashtag #Spring2024

By Rick Scharmberg

The First State will hold its first fight card of 2024 on Saturday, January 20, when Strict Biz Promotions will host a 7-bout show at the Greater Newark Boys and Girls Club in Newark, Delaware. The main event will feature Delaware’s own, Maurice “War Time” Horne (6-1, 4 KOs) taking on 26-fight veteran Greg “Hotshot” Hackett, of Philadelphia in a six round light heavyweight bout. Continue reading “Boxing Returns to Delaware Jan. 20”