Month: July 2020

DILMAGHANI FOCUSED FOR RESCHEDULED EUROPEAN TITLE CHALLENGE AGAINST CHAMPION ZIANI ON SEPTEMBER 5

by adminChampionship News

Alex Dilmaghani will finally challenge the reigning European Super-Featherweight Champion Samir Ziani on Saturday 5th September, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5 in the UK.

Presented by Mick Hennessy for Hennessy Sports in association with Ladbrokes, Infinitum, Numan and Everlast, the five-fight card to be staged behind-closed-doors at a purpose built TV production facility in Wakefield, also features the Southern Area Super-Flyweight Championship between Sammy Cantwell and Ricky Little; cruiserweight talent Isaac Chamberlain and fast-rising middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr; plus a further name to be confirmed.

All-action Dilmaghani (19-1-1, 8 KO’s) was due to face Ziani (31-3-1, 6 KO’s) for the European title on April 25th, but the show was subsequently postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Hennessy has worked hard to ensure that his charge still had his title challenge upon the recommencement of boxing.

Dilmaghani, 28, is raring to return to the ring and finally lay his claim on the prized European title.  

It will be almost a year since his last fight in November at the York Hall where he fought a thrilling battle against the Two-Time World title challenger Francisco Fonseca for the IBO World title that ended in a draw, but was one of the fight’s of the year.

The Crayford southpaw displayed his never-say-die warrior’s heart by fighting with a bad cut above his left eye from the ninth round, he pressed the fight and although it was very close at the end, many ringside observers felt that Dilmaghani had done enough to be given the decision.

He will need all that and more when he comes up against the solid and experienced Ziani from from Blagnac, France, Ziani, 29, makes the second defence of his European title against Dilmaghani and it will be the first time he has fought in the UK despite having previously fought in Spain, Denmark, Morocco, Ukraine and Italy in his 35-fight career that has seen him capture the French and WBC & WBA International titles. 

He won the vacant European title by forcing Spaniard Juli Gigner to retire in the sixth round in his Barcelona backyard last year and putting his title on the line against ‘Dilma’ holds no fear for him.Ziani was last out in October when he made the first defence of the title over the Belgian challenger Faroukh Kourbanov with an unanimous points win.  

He has never been stopped in the three points losses on his record and one of those was to the big-hitting former IBF World Lightweight Champion Richard Commey in a very tight fight that some had Ziani winning. 

Dilmaghani said, “It’s been a long and frustrating time to wait, but I’m so happy that Mick has worked hard behind the scenes to make sure the title fight stayed on and now I get my chance at the European title and it’s live on free-to-air Channel 5.  Full respect to Ziani he’s coming over here to defend his title, but I will be relieving him of the belt. I can’t wait for it, it’s going to be great fight and real thriller for the viewers’ on Channel 5.”

Ziani said, “I’ve had plenty of extra time to prepare for Dilmaghani since the fight was postponed and I’m ready to fight him right now.  I’ve boxed everywhere and in other fighters’ countries so fighting him in England does not worry me one bit. He is in for the fight of his life so I hope he has studied and prepared himself in the meantime because he won’t know what’s hit him.”

Hennessy added, “It’s a relief to finally announce the fight is back on between Samir and Alex and the European title will still be on the line.  Like everyone, I was really looking forward to seeing this one in April, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown, it made it impossible to stage until restrictions had been eased.  I’d like to thank Gary Hyde, The BBBofC, The EBU and Channel 5 for their input and foresight in keeping this fight together and with the aim of getting it on as soon as possible.  I’m delighted that we’ve managed to deliver that and I’m sure their styles will make for a truly great fight on September 5th.”

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports 

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TWO BOXING EVENTS LIVE FROM SCOTLAND SCHEDULED ON FITE TV FOR AUGUST

by adminNews

Nathan Beattie vs Milton Arauz headlines 1st August and 6 time World Champion Lee McAllister vs Edwin Palacios headlines 15th August

Following the success of the inaugural LET BATTLE COMMENCE, in association with PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA & NEON ENERGY DRINK, that took place at the Northern Hotel in Aberdeen last weekend, promoter Lee Mcallister has announced two more events in the series which will be broadcast live and exclusive on FITE TV on Saturday 1st August and Saturday 15th August 2020.

Back on the 18th July the fans of the pugilistic arts around the world watching LET BATTLE COMMENCE 1 on  FITE TV were treated to the spectacle of the return to the fray by Lineal World Boxing Organization (WBO) Featherweight World Champion Scott Harrison, who faced and stopped Professional Boxing Council (PBC) International Champion Paul Peers in a non-championship six rounder.

Prior to Harrison-Peers the fans tuned in watched an incredible Battle Royale between 10 time Kick Boxing World Champion Caitlin Foran, who was making her professional boxing debut, and  Professional Boxing Council (PBC) International Bronze Champion Jaime Bates, who stepped in as late replacement after original opponent Carly Mackenzie broke two toes in a riding accident the previous weekend. After six incredibly closely fought rounds Foran secured the victory by a close 58-56 points tally.

The third fight of the night was a fantastic all action War between undefeated Lewis Mulberry and Nicaragua’s Johnson Tellez. I’m sure those watching on TV were as enthralled with the action as much as myself, Mulberry’s ring name is “Machine Gun’ and believe me that is a most appropriate moniker, as the 19 year old peppered the body of his far more experienced opponent with fast and powerful left and rights at a mega rapid pace. After six scintillating all action rounds, Referee Edward Law’s scorecard read 60-54 in favour of the teen sensation Lewis Mulberry.

Prior to Mulberry-Tellez Perth’s Adam Stewart (1-0-0) made his return to the ring against late replacement Nicaragua’s Alexander Zeledon, following an injury sustained by original opponent Liverpool’s Steve Sunners (4-0-0). Earlier this year Zeledon beat Manchester’s Dan Booth (4-1-0), so not an easy opponent, regardless of his negative record, for 25 year old Stewart who returned to the fray following a three year sabbatical.

What a cracking fight, both protagonists went at it hammer and tongs for close to four rounds before Stewart’s power came into play late in the fourth. With around 25 second or so of the round remaining Stewart fired a massive Exocet to send the Nicaraguan to the deck, Zeledon was clearly in pain as he unsuccessfully tried to make it to his feet. Official time of stoppage 2 minutes and 40 seconds of the fourth round.

The opening fight of the night see 18 year old Heavyweight Liam Allan from Aberdeen make his professional debut against Puerto Rican Jose F Leon. Cracking opening round, but in the second Allan’s mature approach, that belied his tender years, really came into play. 

As the second stanza progressed, Allan worked behind his superb jab to fashion some good openings, which he took without a second thought. Just about mid way through the  second round one such opening enabled the youngster to let rip with a massive shot that sent Leon to the deck. Leon made the count and boxing resumed, then with around 30 seconds of the round remaining Allan created another opening and once again let rip and landed a big shot to send the South American to the canvas for a second time, the tough Puerto Rican tried to make it to his feet again but just failed to make the count, official time of the stoppage was 2 minutes and 40 seconds.

The first August event, LET BATTLE COMMENCE II, in association with PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA and NEON ENERGY DRINK, takes place at the Northern Hotel in Aberdeen and broadcast live and exclusive by FITE TV on Saturday 1ST AUGUST 2020.

The line-up for the 1st August is:

1) Lightweight 

PBC & WBU International Champion Nathan Beattie (10-4-0) has a seriously tough night ahead, when he steps in the ring with Nicaraguan Milton Arauz (10-3-1)

2) Super Flyweight 

A truly mouthwatering contest sees PBC International Bronze Champion Nicola Hopewell go toe to toe with exciting Tasha Boyes from York, who will be making her professional debut.

3) Middleweight 

Liverpool’s Scott Mcintyre (4-1-0) will take on the seriously tough Nicaraguan Wilmer Gonzalez (21-18-1), who just a few fights back KOd a certain British WBF European and International Champ.

4) Super Featherweight 

Denny’s Kevin Traynor (2-0-0) will need to be at his best when he takes on the exciting Greek battler Paris Stavropoulos (2-1-0), who makes his first appearance in the UK.

5) Heavyweight 

The final fight of the night will pit debutant against debutant as Craig Dick takes on Michael Bassett, both the big lads have stated they will be looking to make a big impression on the 1st August.

Nathan Beattie versus Milton Arauz headlines LET BATTLE COMMENCE II, in association with PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA and NEON ENERGY DRINK, takes place at the Northern Hotel in Aberdeen and broadcast live and exclusive by FITE TV on Saturday 1ST AUGUST 2020.

LET BATTLE COMMENCE II PPV on 1st August ($4.99 approx £4) go to https://www.fite.tv/watch/let-battle-commence-beattie-arauz/2p7rq/

The second of the August events, LET BATTLE COMMENCE III, in association with PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA and NEON ENERGY DRINK will take place at the Northern Hotel in Aberdeen and broadcast exclusively live on FITE TV on Saturday 15TH AUGUST 2020.

The line-up for the 15th August is:

1) Middleweight 

Six time, Five Division World Champion, and Promoter of the LET BATTLE COMMENCE series, Lee McAllister steps in to replace Malta’s Brandon Borg to face Gerona, Spain based Nicaraguan Edwin Palacios in the headline fight, definitely a much tougher fight for Palacios than what he was expecting, but the macho South American has stated he’s up to the challenge and to expect fireworks.

2) Featherweight 

Sensational Teen former Amateur Star Hollie Towl will be making her professional debut against equally sensational World Boxing Council (WBC) Muay Thai World Champion Natacha De Almeida from Switzerland, who will also be making her professional boxing debut.

3) Middleweight 

Nathan Russo versus Wilmer Gonzalez – this highly anticipated clash of the Big Bangers was originally due to have been on the first LET BATTLE COMMENCE show in the series, but had to be rescheduled due to a minor injury suffered by Russo. Without a doubt this is going to be a highly exciting all action contest, how long it’ll last is anyones guess, as Russo has won every fight so far by KNOCKOUT and Gonzalez has 14 KOs on his record, including a huge upset KO win over a certain World Boxing Foundation (WBF) European and International Champion last year.

4) Welterweight 

Instead of the anticipated rematch against Dean Porter, Leeds’ Jack Jones, will now face Nicaraguan hard man Michael Isaac Carrero, following original opponent Porter having to withdraw.

5) Bantamweight 

Local lad Kenny Allan faces Chadwell Heath, Surrey’s Jordan Smith in the opening contest of the night, Allan will be looking to secure his second victory in his fledgling career, whilst Smith will be seeking to get the first win on his record on this just his third pro outing.

Lee Mcallister versus Edwin Palacios headlines LET BATTLE COMMENCE III, in association with PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA and NEON ENERGY DRINK and will take place at the Northern Hotel in Aberdeen and broadcast exclusively live on FITE TV on Saturday 15TH AUGUST 2020.

LET BATTLE COMMENCE III PPV ($4.99 approx £4) will be available on FITE TV from Wednesday 29th July

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MIDLANDS AREA WELTERWEIGHT TITLE SHOWDOWN BETWEEN BENJAMIN AND WALKER ADDED TO PITTERS V SUGDEN BRITISH TITLE CLASH

by adminChampionship News

Promoter Mick Hennessy oversees the long-awaited return of Championship Boxing to UK free-to-view TV screens exclusively LIVE on Channel 5 on Saturday 22nd August and has added a further title fight to the show.

The five-fight card, presented by Hennessy Sports in association with Ladbrokes, Infinitum and Numan, will be staged behind-closed doors at a purpose built production studio and is headlined with the long-awaited battle for the Vacant British Light-Heavyweight title between Shakan Pitters and Chad Sugden.

Hennessy is delighted to bolster the big fight-night with a sizzling Midlands derby that pits Birmingham’s Kaicee Benjamin and Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker in a fiery clash for the Vacant Midlands Area Welterweight Title with plenty of pride and honour at stake.

All-action Benjamin (10-0-1, 2 KO’s), the former Midlands Area Champion, is in fine recent form having made two defences of the title and seen off three unbeaten fighters (Shaquille Day, Levi Ferguson and Alex Fearon) in his last four fights. 

Rival Walker (7-0-1, 2 KO’s) will be looking to cause an upset and beat the favourite Benjamin to prove that he is the real deal.  The former standout amateur took the unbeaten record of Nathan Bendon and then forced then unbeaten Ohio Kain Iremiren to a draw and is pumped up for the challenge against Benjamin

In addition to the Pitters-Sugden and Benjamin-Walker showdowns, an action-packed card also features the highly anticipated return of Brixton cruiserweight title contender Isaac Chamberlain (10-1-0, 4 KO’s) as he targets titles on his comeback, Birmingham super-welterweight talent and Love Island star Idris Virgo (5-0-1) and fast-rising Sevenoaks middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr (3-0-1).

Hennessy said, “It’s fast building momentum towards an exciting and long-awaited return for British boxing on the free-to-air TV platform Channel 5 on August 22nd.  We’ve got a fantastic main-event in place with the British Light-Heavyweight title showdown between Shakan and Chad and that is now complimented with a Midlands Area title clash between Kaicee and Conah.  Not only that, but we have the exciting return of cruiserweight star Isaac who’s on the road back towards challenging for titles, plus reality TV star Idris and young prospect Michael complete the card.  This is a statement that our sport is finally back and where it belongs on the big-stage on free-to-air Channel 5 for everyone to watch without having to pay.”

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports 

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Review: 18th July ‘Let Battle Commence’ – Harrison Returns With a Bang, Whilst the Young Guns Foran, Mulberry, Stewart and Allan Score Impressive Wins.

by adminNews

Last Saturday night boxing finally returned to Scotland, for the first time since the lockdown began in March, when six time, five division World Champion turned Promoter Lee Mcallister presented the first in a series of ten special events created for TV under the banner of ‘LET BATTLE COMMENCE’, in association with PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA and NEON ENERGY DRINK and Broadcast Live and Exclusive on FITE TV.

However it was under very different conditions to any pre-lockdown events, for a start there were no spectators or press in attendance, but those weren’t the only differences, not by a long shot.

The event featured a five contest card, each restricted to a maximum of six rounds, in order to comply with Government guidelines. 

The first fight of the night see 18 year old Heavyweight Liam Allan from Aberdeen make his professional debut against Puerto Rican Jose F Leon. 

The local youngster showed no sign of nerves and was aggressively taking the fight to his much more experienced opponent right from the opening bell. Leon though is no mug and used all his experience to good effect to prevent Allan from landing too many big solid shots in the first, however the youngster did land some fantastic shots and come to that more than enough to easily secure the round.

More of the same in the second, Allan’s mature approach, that belied his tender years, really came into play in the second and as the round progressed worked behind his superb jab to fashion some good openings, which he took without a second thought. Just about mid way through the  second round one such opening enabled the youngster to let rip with a massive shot that sent Leon to the deck. Leon made the count with seconds to go and boxing resumed, then with around 30 seconds of the round remaining Allan created another opening and once again let rip and landed a big shot to send Leon to the canvas for a second time, the tough Puerto Rican tried to make it to his feet again but just failed to make the count, official time of the stoppage was 2 minutes and 40 seconds.

Next up was a six rounder between Perth’s Adam Stewart (1-0-0) and late replacement Nicaraguan Alexander Zeledon (6-23-3) after original opponent Steve Sunners (4-0-0) had to withdraw due to injury.

Earlier this year Zeledon beat Manchester’s Dan Booth (4-1-0), so not an easy opponent, regardless of his negative record, for 25 year old Stewart who returned to the fray following a three year sabbatical.

What a cracking fight, both protagonists really were up for the fight, which I’m sure entertained those watching on TV around the world as much as it did myself ringside. The first three rounds were closely fought from start to finish as was most of the fourth, that was until about 25 second or so of the round remaining Stewart fired a massive Exocet to send the Nicaraguan to the deck, Zeledon was clearly in pain as he unsuccessfully tried to make it to his feet. Official time of stoppage 2 minutes and 40 seconds of the fourth round.

The third fight of the evening featured unbeaten Lewis Mulberry (3-0-0), from Essex, undertaking his first six rounder against Nicaraguan Johnson Tellez (10-53-5) 

What a great fight, in fact a very close contender for fight of the night, it was fast a furious all action war for virtually every second of each round. I’m sure those watching on TV were as enthralled with the action as much as myself, Mulberry’s ring name is “Machine Gun’ and believe me that is a most appropriate moniker, as the 19 year old peppered the body of his far more experienced opponent with fast and powerful left and rights at a mega rapid pace. After six scintillating all action rounds, Referee Edward Law’s scorecard read 60-54 in favour of the teen sensation Lewis Mulberry.

One of the most welcome features of the LET BATTLE COMMENCE series is that there is always at least one female fight on every card, and the fight selected for the opening show welcomed former 10 time World Kickboxing Champion, 20 year old Caitlin Foran from Orkney making her professional boxing debut, against late replacement Jaime Bates (1-0-0), who had take the fight with just four days notice following original opponent Carly Mackenzie having to withdraw after breaking two toes in a riding accident the weekend before.

The fight itself was fantastic to watch, both girls went for it right from the opening bell and throughout the entire contest, Foran secured the first three rounds, but round four see a reinvigorated Bates turn the tide and secure not only the fourth but also the fifth. Bates and her team knew she was in with a chance to get a draw and with her corner’s encouragement really piled on the pressure, Foran is ring savvy though and her excellent ringcraft prevented the ever forward moving Bates from landing too many scoring shots, the around the midway point Bates began to fade, leaving openings that the Orkney lass just couldn’t ignore, which proved just enough for Foran to secure the round and her first Professional Boxing win. Referee Edward Law’s official score being 58-56.

The fifth and final contest of the night featured the return of two time WBO Featherweight World Champion Scott Harrison (27-3-2) to the fray in a six rounder against current Professional Boxing Council (PBC) International Lightweight Champion Paul Peers (7-4-0).

Peers started hard and fast to dominate most of the first stanza, Harrison managed to shake some the ring rust off in the second, his movement and ringcraft, became more like those that we had come to know during his reign as Featherweight King, he began to get his distance spot on and not only prevented Peers from landing as many shots as he did in the first but was landing plenty of big shots of his own to secure the second round.

The third round was fantastic to watch as the two warriors went to war, but the writing was on the wall, Harrison was beginning to look more and more like the Scott Harrison who destroyed the likes of Manuel Medina and Michael Brodie back in the early noughties.

No surprise then that after about a minute or so of the round Harrison see an opening and let rip with a vicious hook to the lower rib to send Peers down. Have to admit I as shocked that Peers made it to his feet, but he did and went straight back to mixing it up with one the best Scottish fighters of all time as if nothing had happened, however the fight was destined to conclude shortly after when Harrison let rip with an almost identical rib-breaker to send Peers down for a second time. Official time of the stoppage 2 minutes and 7 seconds of the third round.

The PPV ($4.99) on FITE TV is still available and those in the UK will also be able to view the event free from Saturday 25th July on Sports Channel Network (Youview/Freeview Channel 265) 

The next event in the LET BATTLE COMMENCE series, in association with PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA and NEON ENERGY DRINK will take place on the 1st August 2020 and will be PPV ($4.99) broadcast live and exclusive on FITE TV at 8pm in the UK, 9pm in Europe, 4pm (EST) and 1pm (PST) in America. 

The card will be headlined by PBC International Lightweight Champion Nathan Beattie (10-4-0) versus Milton Arauz (10-3-1) 

Main support pits exciting Super Flyweight Nicola Hopewell (1-0-0) against debuting Tasha Boyes.

An intriguing battle will ensue when Scott McIntyre (4-1-0) goes toe to toe with Wilmer Gonzalez (21-18-1), as both lads are proven big punchers and to add further interest in September 2019 Gonzalez knocked out the World Boxing Foundation’s (WBF) then European and International Champion, who coincidently had fought beat Scott McIntyre six months earlier.

Denny’s Kevin Traynor (2-0-0) is also set for a Battle Royale when he faces Patras, Greece’s #1 Super Featherweight Paris Stavropoulos (2-1-0).

The opening fight of the night will see Aberdeen Heavyweight Craig Dick making his professional debut against fellow Debutant Brentwood’s Michael Bassett.

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“It’s My Destiny To Become World Champion Again” Says Harrison

by adminNews

This coming Saturday former longtime World Boxing Organization (WBO) Featherweight World Champion Scott Harrison makes his long awaited return to the ring, when he faces Professional Boxing Council (PBC) International Champion Paul Peers in a non-championship contest on the PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA Presented LET BATTLE COMMENCE behind closed doors event at the Northern Hotel in Aberdeen, that will be broadcast live and exclusive on FITE TV 

Harrison’s three year domination of the WBO Featherweight Championship began in June 2002, with a sixth round stoppage victory over Victor Santiago for the Interim World Crown. Four months later Harrison secured the full World laurels with an unanimous points victory over Julio Pablo Chacon. 

On his first defence Harrison faced and beat Wayne McCullough comfortably on points In March 2003. Four months later he then faced Manuel Medina for the first time, losing by a split decision. With a rematch clause in place Harrison faced Medina once more, this time securing the World Crown for a second time with an eleventh round stoppage victory.

Three stoppage victories followed, over Walter Estrada, William Abelyan and Samuel Kebede, then in January 2005 Colombian Victor Polo not only went the distance but secured a draw against the ‘Real McCoy’.

2005 was a good year for Harrison, boxing wise, the Glasgow man securing a stoppage victory over Michael Brodie and solid points victory over Nedal Hussein.

In May 2006 Harrison pulled out of his next title defence, the media at the time stating he had been charged over an incident in a nightclub.

Harrison’s career was firmly on hold until 2012, following two jail sentences, but the tough Glaswegian eventually made his successful return to the fray in June 2012, when he stopped Gyorgy Mizsel to secure the International Masters Championship. Three months later Harrison secured a victory over Joe Elfidh.

In April 2014 Harrison unsuccessfully challenged Liam Walsh for the WBO International Lightweight title, then just weeks later it was announced that he had to return to Spain to complete his sentence following losing the appeal on the case.

Speaking from his home Harrison said: “I’m looking forward to my return to boxing and getting back to work and finishing the last chapter of my Boxing  career.

“I believe I can win another World title. Boxing is all about taking your opportunity’s and when it’s time to deliver, deliver. I have kept myself in good condition through the years training , roadwork sparring.

“I would like to thank Rio (BIBA VP Gianluca Di Caro) and BIBA for their continued support and for giving me the opportunity to fulfil a dream of becoming World Champion again and being able to earn a living for my Family. 

“I would also like to thank Lee McAllister and Assassin Promotions for their help and support and for organising this Boxing event through these unprecedented times of this Coronavirus Pandemic. 

“My opponent for this fight is Paul Peers he’s a decent opponent and seems up for the fight he has won some lost some but has had 3 good wins in his last 3 fights. 

“I wish him all the best but Boxing is all about levels and experience I believe it’s my destiny to become World Champion again trainings going well and I’m in tremendous condition and look forward to getting back to work and doing my job.“

Scott Harrison versus Paul Peers headlines the PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA Presented LET BATTLE COMMENCE behind closed doors event at the Northern Hotel in Aberdeen, that will be broadcast live and exclusive on FITE TV 

Main support sees ten time Kickboxing World Champion Caitlin Foran making her professional boxing debut against PBC International Silver Champion Jaime Bates.

The undercard also features unbeaten Lewis Mulberry (3-0-0) versus Nicaragua’s Johnson Tellez,  Liverpool’s unbeaten Steve Sunners (4-0-0) will be facing off against Perth’s Adam Stewart (1-0-0) and Aberdeen’s Liam Allan making his pro debut against Southend’s Dan Ballard.

The first event in the PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA presented LET BATTLE COMMENCE series takes place in Aberdeen on the 18th July 2020 and will be broadcast live on FITE.TV (worldwide) as well as delayed broadcast in the UK on Sports Channel Network (SCN) Channel 265 on Freeview/YouView.

For PPV purchases ($4.99) please go to https://www.fite.tv/watch/let-battle-commence-harrison-peers/2p7nh/

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Mackenzie Injured, Bates Steps up to the Plate and Faces Foran on Saturday Live on FITE TV.

by adminFemale Boxing / News

Carly Mackenzie has been forced to pull out of her much anticipated fight against ten time Kickboxing World Champion Caitlin Foran, who makes her professional boxing debut this coming Saturday. 

Current Professional Boxing Council (PBC) International Silver Champion Jaime Bates steps up to the plate as a late replacement on the PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA Presented LET BATTLE COMMENCE event at the Northern Hotel n Aberdeen, which will be broadcast live and exclusive by FITE TV from 8pm (GMT) in the UK, 4pm (EST)/1pm (PST) in the USA. 

On making the announcement, promoter Lee McAllister said Mackenzie, who broke two toes at the weekend after a horse stepped on her foot, “will not miss out” the six time, five Division World Champ turned promoter added “we’ll reschedule the fight with Caitlin for later in the year”

Speaking from her home in Orkney, Foran said.

“My heart goes out to Carly, I know how much she was looking forward to fighting me on Saturday, these things happen and I wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to fighting her later in the year.

“I couldn’t be more excited and honoured to be making my professional debut as the main support to such an exciting main card that includes my coach and manager Paul Peers and the comeback of Scott Harrison. 

“I feel this is a great time for me to be starting my career and I will be a hundred percent ready for Saturday. Jaime Bates is a proven Champion so will definitely be a good fight to start off my career.

“And I would also like to take this opportunity to say thank you to my sponsor, Gary Sutherland at GSRI Shetland”

Caitlin Foran versus Jaime Bates will be the main support when longtime WBO Featherweight King Scott Harrison goes toe-to-toe with PBC International Champion Paul Peers on the first of the Lee Mcallister promoted, PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA presented ‘LET BATTLE COMMENCE’ series of ‘Behind Closed Doors’ events that will be broadcast exclusively live on FITE.TV.

The undercard also features unbeaten Lewis Mulberry (3-0-0) versus Nicaragua’s Johnson Tellez,  Liverpool’s unbeaten Steve Sunners (4-0-0) will be facing off against Perth’s Adam Stewart (1-0-0) and Aberdeen’s Liam Allan making his pro debut against Southend’s Dan Ballard.

The first event in the PAPA JOHN’S PIZZA presented LET BATTLE COMMENCE series takes place in Aberdeen on the 18th July 2020 and will be broadcast live on FITE.TV (worldwide) as well as delayed broadcast in the UK on Sports Channel Network (SCN) Channel 265 on Freeview/YouView.

For PPV purchases ($4.99) please go to https://www.fite.tv/watch/let-battle-commence-harrison-peers/2p7nh/

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JONAS – HARPER CAN’T DEAL WITH THE BEST VERSION OF ME

by adminFemale Boxing
‘Miss GB’ relishing underdog tag ahead of historic World Title clash
Natasha Jonas is confident that Terri Harper won’t be able to deal with ‘the best version’ of her as the Super-Featherweights prepare to meet in a historic clash on Week 2 of Matchroom Fight Camp from Brentwood, Essex on Friday August 7, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US.

Harper puts her WBC and IBO crowns on the line against former Team GB standout Jonas (9-1, 7 KOs) in a keenly-anticipated main event that will see two British female fighters compete against each other for a World Title for the first time in the sport’s history. 

Jonas, Great Britain’s first ever Olympic female boxer, bounced back from her sole pro career loss against Viviane Obenauf with three rebuilding wins over Feriche Mashauri, Bec Connolly and Bianka Majlath, and the World Amateur Bronze Medallist believes all of the pressure will be on the shoulders of the younger Harper. 

“She’s young, she’s hungry and she’s proved she can do ten rounds,” said Jonas. “She’s fit, but I also think that some of those things can be your undoing when you’re young. Sometimes you’re a bit naive, you can be a bit overeager when you’re hungry. She’s been talking about stopping the fight early so we’ll see. That’s all I can say. 

“She’s done everything asked of her. She’s beaten people I couldn’t. She’s beaten experienced girls like Eva Wahlstrom. She’s took the title, she’s got the title, and I’ve just got to take that off her. Hats off to her for everything she’s done. I’ve got nothing bad to say about her. I’m realistic. I’ve just got to bring the best version of me, and I don’t think she can deal with that. 

“I think she’s the bookies’ favourite. Judging by some social media comments I’ve seen she’s possibly edging it with the fans too. There’s no pressure on me. She put out a statement the other day saying that there is but I don’t believe there is. She’s the Champion, she’s got to keep hold of it, she’s been very vocal about how she’s going to keep hold of it. She’s got to go out and prove it.

“Every time I’ve come back into boxing there’s always been a reason, like unfinished business. To win and to hold the belt would finally sort that unfinished business. That will make me complete. I’ll be prepared, whether it’s one round or ten rounds. I’ll be prepared and I’ll keep going. There’s nothing she does better than me, and I’ll prove it on August 7th.”

Harper vs. Jonas tops Week 2 of Matchroom Camp, Bournemouth’s Chris Billam-Smith (10-1, 9 KOs) defends his Commonwealth Title against undefeated Cardiff man Nathan Thorley (14-0, 6 KOs), Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (12-1, 9 KOs) gets his second outing of the year against Adam Harper (9-1), Oldham Lightweight prospect Aqib Fiaz (5-0) steps up against Birmingham’s former Midlands Area Champion Kane Baker (13-6) and Leeds Featherweight prospect Hopey Price (2-0) fights on UK soil again following his win on the huge Andy Ruiz vs. Anthony Joshua 2 show in Saudi Arabia. 
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CHEESEMAN VOWS TO BE TOO BIG AND STRONG FOR ‘FRAGILE’ EGGINGTON

by adminNews
‘The Big Cheese’ predicts late stoppage in Fight Camp opener
Ted Cheeseman has promised to use his size and strength to bully a ‘fragile’ Sam Eggington when they clash for the Stourbridge man’s IBF International Super-Welterweight Title at the top of the bill on the opening weekend of Fight Camp on Saturday August 1, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US.

Cheeseman (15-2-1, 9 KOs) is the naturally bigger man who has campaigned at 154lbs his whole professional career since turning over in September 2019, winning the English, WBA International and British Titles along the way. 

Eggington’s best wins have come at 147lbs where he was a beast domestically, using his size and punch power to win the Commonwealth and British Titles in 2015, he then stopped Ceferino Rodriguez in ten rounds to earn the European Title in 2017.

A move up to 154lbs saw Eggington notch back-to-back stoppage wins before he suffered a shock TKO defeat to Tanzania’s Hassan Mwakinyo in September 2018. Former World Champion Liam Smith then dominated Eggington en route to a fifth-round stoppage in Liverpool – a loss that Cheeseman has taken confidence from. 

“I respect Sam as a fighter,” said Cheeseman. “He’s a really good fighter, but I think he’s a massive Welterweight. I think he’s a fragile Light-Middleweight. When push comes to shove and I stand there and start bullying him and dominating him in the middle of the ring, he hasn’t got a Plan B but I have.

“If it goes wrong for me, I can box. If I start pushing him back and he can’t handle the strength or power, he has to try and fight back. If that isn’t working what does he do next? I know I can box, I’ve got that Plan B. I feel I’m going to be too big and too strong. 

“I feel like I’ll get Sam out of there in the later rounds. He’s going to have a go early on but as the rounds go on he’s going to keep on getting hit as his defence is his face. Once I keep hitting him the damage is going to come on top and one of the shots is going to land and he’s going to go.”

Eggington vs. Cheeseman tops Week 1 of Matchroom Fight Camp, Belfast’s big-hitting James Tennyson (26-3, 22 KOs) takes on Cardiff’s Gavin Gwynne (12-1, 2 KOs) for the vacant British Lightweight Title, Chatteris talent Jordan Gill (24-1, 7 KOs) meets Watford’s Reece Bellotti (14-3, 12 KOs) in an electric Featherweight battle, fast-rising Ipswich Heavyweight Fabio Wardley (8-0, 7 KOs) steps up to take on Middlesbrough’s Simon Vallily (17-2-1, 7 KOs) for the vacant English belt and gifted Sheffield Super-Lightweight Dalton Smith (5-0, 4 KOs) squares off with Liverpool’s Nathan Bennett (9-1, 2 KOs). 
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EGGINGTON: IT’S ALL OR NOTHING

by adminNews
‘The Savage’ prepared for backyard brawl
Sam Eggington says his highly-anticipated showdown with Ted Cheeseman at the top of the opening week of Matchroom Fight Camp on Saturday August 1 is “all or nothing” for both men as he sets his sights on a World Title Eliminator at 154lbs. 

Former European Welterweight Champion Eggington (28-6, 17 KOs) has notched four straight wins since losing to Liam Smith back in March 2019, picking up the IBF International Super-Welterweight Title on away soil against Orlando Fiordigiglio in September. 

He puts that belt, along with his No.5 ranking with the IBF, on the line against Cheeseman, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US, knowing that a win could propel him towards a surprise World Title shot and a loss could undo all of his hard work over the past year. 

The stakes are equally as high for Cheeseman who finds himself in a must-win situation following two losses and one draw in his last three fights. Everything is on the line for ‘The Big Cheese’ and another loss could prove to be disastrous for his career. 

“You only have to watch Ted fight to know that he doesn’t give up when it gets hard,” said Eggington. “I have full faith in myself and if anyone can make him give up, I’ll be that guy. It’ll be a good fight while it lasts. The way we both fight, it’s going to gel for a war, but I genuinely think I’ve got enough to get the win. 

“I’m confident with this fight. Eddie gave me a list of names for potential opponents and we picked him out because it’s a good fight and one we can win. It’s not a fight that worries me like others might have. I’ll make sure I walk out with the win. Any way, shape or form, I’ll get the win. 

“I’ve never been in a position to have an argument for some sort of Eliminator and I think I am now with the IBF belt. That’s the aim once we get past Ted next month. It’s all or nothing for the both of us. That’s the way I live in general. 

“It’s in the garden and there won’t be a crowd but that doesn’t matter to me. If I’m having a fight and it’s a packed-out arena, I want to win that fight. If I’m having a fight in an empty room, I’m having a fight and I still want to win. I’m going to bite down on my gum-shield and do anything I can to win.”

Eggington vs. Cheeseman tops Week 1 of Matchroom Fight Camp, Belfast’s big-hitting James Tennyson (26-3, 22 KOs) takes on Cardiff’s Gavin Gwynne (12-1, 2 KOs) for the vacant British Lightweight Title, Chatteris talent Jordan Gill (24-1, 7 KOs) meets Watford’s Reece Bellotti (14-3, 12 KOs) in an electric Featherweight battle, fast-rising Ipswich Heavyweight Fabio Wardley (8-0, 7 KOs) steps up to take on Middlesbrough’s Simon Vallily (17-2-1, 7 KOs) for the vacant English belt and gifted Sheffield Super-Lightweight Dalton Smith (5-0, 4 KOs) squares off with Liverpool’s Nathan Bennett (9-1, 2 KOs). 
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EPIC TAYLOR VS. PERSOON REMATCH CONFIRMED FOR MATCHROOM FIGHT CAMP

by adminFemale Boxing / News
Rivals collide on August 22 following New York WAR
The biggest rematch in the history of women’s boxing has been confirmed for Matchroom Fight Camp as Katie Taylor defends her WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight World Titles against Delfine Persoon on Saturday August 22, live on Sky Sports Box Office. 
 
Taylor (15-0, 6 KOs) completed her fairy-tale journey from Olympic Gold to Undisputed Lightweight World Champion with a thrilling but controversial points win over Belgium’s Persoon on a historical night at the world-famous Madison Square Garden on the Joshua vs. Ruiz bill last year. 
 
After a bloody and brutal battle that captivated the New York crowd, the Irish star added Persoon’s WBC belt to her IBF, WBO and WBA Titles to hold all four at 135lbs and cement her place as the number one Lightweight on the planet.
 
The 34-year-old went on to create more history at Manchester Arena in November when she dethroned WBO Super-Lightweight World Champion Christina Linardatou to become a two-weight World ruler – becoming only the third Irish boxer to win World Titles in two weight classes.
 
Persoon (44-2, 18 KOs) held the WBC strap for five years, making nine successful defences in that reign, before losing it to Taylor in a Fight of the Year contender. Despite losing on two of the judges’ scorecards, Persoon was convinced she’d won after ten rounds of relentless action and has been lobbying for a rematch ever since. 
 
“With Amanda Serrano not taking the fight I wanted the biggest fight possible in August and I think a second Persoon fight is one that everyone wants to see,” said Taylor. “I’ve been looking forward to a rematch ever since the first fight and I’m delighted it’s been made. It was definitely very close first time around, but I felt I deserved the win and I intend to leave no doubts in the rematch.”

Persoon said: “I am ready to get the victory following the injustice last June in New York, not by words but in the ring – I am ready!”
 
“Wow! What a fight – what a night! To be honest I can’t quite believe this fight has been made, I can’t give enough credit to Katie and Delfine for agreeing to do it again,” said Eddie Hearn. “Since their epic Fight of the Year contender at MSG last year, everyone has wanted to see this once again and now we have it. I’m very proud to stage this fight especially at such a critical time for our sport – along with Whyte vs. Povetkin August 22 will be one not to forget.”
 
Adam Smith, Sky Sports Head of Boxing Development, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to confirm Katie Taylor’s eagerly awaited rematch against Delfine Persoon, with all the World Lightweight Titles on the line. Katie has called for a second fight ever since that thrilling first encounter when she received the verdict, much to the dismay of Persoon.
 
“They go again on the Whyte-Povetkin bill, which just got even bigger, and Katie will be determined to end any dispute with a resounding win. I’ve been speaking to Katie over the last few days and she’s more fired up than ever to show once again why she is a pound-for-pound star of the sport.
 
“Of course, we’ve also got Whyte’s high stakes showdown against Povetkin, with Dillian risking his WBC Mandatory Title shot. It’s repeat or revenge for Taylor and then Heavyweight fireworks in a fitting finale to Matchroom’s Fight Camp!”
 
Taylor vs. Persoon lands on the final week of Matchroom Fight Camp as Dillian Whyte  (27-1, 18 KOs) puts his WBC Interim Heavyweight World Title on the line against Russia’s Alexander Povetkin (35-2-1, 24 KOs) in a battle of the left hooks, Martin Bakole (15-1, 12 KOs) returns to the ring against Russia’s Sergey Kuzmin (15-1, 11 KOs) and Luther Clay (13-1, 5 KOs) defends his WBO Global Welterweight Title against Chris Kongo (11-0, 6 KOs). 
 
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