FIGHT CAMP WEEK 1 WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER

18:15 BST LIVE ON BEFORE THE BELL

6 x 2 mins Super-Lightweight contest

SANDY RYAN 144lbs 7oz v KIRSTIE BAVINGTON 144lbs 3oz
(Derby, England)                  (Pensnett, England)

followed by

19:00 BST LIVE ON DAZN

10 x 3 mins IBF International Super-Middleweight Title
AVNI YILDIRIM 163lbs v JACK CULLEN 163lbs 7oz
(Istanbul, Turkey)           (Little Lever, England)

followed by

10 x 3 mins International Super-Welterweight contest 
ANTHONY FOWLER 155lbs 4oz v RICO MUELLER 156lbs
(Liverpool, England)                       (Eberswalde, Germany)

followed by

4 x 3 mins International Lightweight contest
CAMPBELL HATTON 135lbs 9oz v JAKUB LASKOWSKI 135lbs 8oz
(Manchester, England)                     (Siemianowice Slaskie, Poland)

followed by

12 x 3 mins European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles
TOMMY MCCARTHY 199lbs 3oz v CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH 199lbs 5oz
(Belfast, Northern Ireland)              (Bournemouth, England)

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBA Featherweight World Title
XU CAN 125lbs 3oz v LEIGH WOOD 125lbs 5oz
(Beijing, China)          (Nottingham, England)
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HENNESSY ALL STARS IN ACTION AT THE COVENTRY SKYDOME ARENA ON ONE HUGE NIGHT!

 Eggington, Chamberlain, McKenna, Pitters, Bent, Benjamin, Virgo, McGinty, Welch, Hennessy Jr., to showcase skills and firepower 

Promoter Mick Hennessy will showcase the brightest boxing talents of his quality packed stable in one mega night of boxing at the Coventry Skydome Arena on Friday 10th September, live and free in the UK and Ireland on Channel 5. Hennessy’s biggest stars, champions and prospects will get to show off their skills and dynamite punching in front of a live crowd and viewing TV audience as they aim to become British boxing’s next big thing. Presented by Hennessy Sports in association with William Hill, Infinitum, Numan and Everlast, tickets will start at £40 and go on sale on general sale shortly. The action packed line up features: 

Sam Eggington: Multi-tilted, all-action Eggington won the WBC Silver Middleweight title in a thrilling battle with Carlos Molina in May and picked up a World ranking as he closes in fast on a World title. 

Isaac Chamberlain: The Brixton banger makes his highly anticipated return to the ring following career enhancing shoulder surgery which will make him better than ever and is now ready to rock and is back to his big-punching best again. 

Stevie McKenna: The Irish dynamo has TNT packed in his fists with all eight out of eight of his opponents KO’d within five rounds. The County Monaghan welterweight terror is gunning for a showdown with English rival Conor Benn next year as he continues leaving a trail of destruction in his wake. 

Shakan Pitters: The charismatic Birmingham giant signalled his explosive return to the ring earlier this year with a KO of Jermaine Springer and now looks to regain his mantle as British Light-Heavyweight Champion. 

River Wilson Bent: The fast-rising Coventry middleweight hot shot has been hailed as the new Ricky Hatton with his exhilarating knockout style and lifted the roof off the Planet Ice Arena with his KO of George Farrell last time out. 

Kaisee Benjamin: Thrilled in his last fight when he floored rival Martin Harkin with a searing body shot in the sixth round and Harkin didn’t come out for the next round. Super skilled Benjamin is shaping up to be a serious threat in the welterweight division. 

Idris Virgo: The Love Island star is proving to be the real deal as he continues on the road to his first title fight. With a physique carved out of rock, the flash and brash Birmingham super- middleweight ace has backed everything up so far. 

Brett McGinty: The sensational Ricky Hatton trained, Donegal super-welterweight, and former amateur standout talent is unbeaten in two fights and is showing signs of becoming a force to be reckoned with as he developes. 

Tommy Welch: The Brighton heavyweight star and former amateur sensation brings hell every time he fights and he doesn’t hang about with all three of his fights ending by KO inside two rounds. 

Michael Hennessy Jr.: A former top amateur with a wealth of experience, the stylish Sevenoaks super-welterweight is looking better and better each time with some eye-catching combinations to head and body as looks to stamp his mark in the pro game. 

Hennessy was the first boxing promoter to open the doors to the public in May at the Coventry Skydome Arena and the allocated tickets – put on sale just five days before the show – sold out within minutes and the action starved fight fans were given to a fistic treat. 

This time the Coventry Skydome Arena will be open to full capacity on Friday 10th September and Hennessy is promising a night of entertainment that they won’t forget. 

He said, “This is a real boxing bonanza of a card for the fight fans. After a very tough time that everyone has had, this is a show for the fans where they can come out and enjoy the fights, see the Hennessy Sports stable of champions from Sam, Kaisee, River, the return of Isaac, Shakan on his comeback, and our exciting future of young talents like Stevie, Idris, Brett, Tommy and Michael all showcasing their skills. The breadth of talent across the weight divisions is just incredible and shows the strength of British and Irish boxing as they look to shine on this massive night. There will be real entertaining, fifty-fifty, fights throughout the card to savour so don’t miss this one.” 

The full card will be announced in the coming weeks. 

Tickets will go on sale shortly and are expected to sell out fast so keep a close eye on Hennessy Sports social media accounts for more announcements.
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports
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FIGHT CAMP WEEK 1 PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Thanks Chris, thanks Darren and thanks to everyone for joining us here as we look outside to Fight Camp. Just two days to go, with the most incredible experience to come for fighters, for fans and for viewers on Saturday night as Fight Camp returns.

“As Chris said, we do have some sad news to bring you, the fact that Conor Benn tested positive for COVID-19 this morning. He will be off the card on Saturday night. That fight will be rescheduled as soon as physically possible and when it is safe to do so.

“Leigh Wood against Xu Can for the WBA World Featherweight Title will main event here on Saturday night. A chance for Leigh Wood to become only the second person from Nottingham to become a World Champion.

“We have a great co-main event – the European, British and Commonwealth Title showdown – Tommy McCarthy against Chris Billam-Smith. Jack Cullen against Avni Yildirim now elevated to that main card as well. Anthony Fowler against Rico Muller. Anthony Fowler, Campbell Hatton, Sandy Ryan – a huge night of boxing to come.”

Adrian Granados:

“It’s just the nature of the world we live in now. It’s unfortunate, Conor and I were very gun-ho about this fight, excited about it, chomping at the bit. It’s the day and age we live in, anything can happen now – this unfortunate disease that’s conquering the world right. I’m upset and frustrated but what can we do.
 
“This says Benn vs. Granados, let’s go. This was the fight that was supposed to happen, Benn’s being talking a lot of stuff. I’ve said some things, but I just wanted to get it on, ready to rumble. It’s unfortunate but I’m hoping for a speedy, 100% recovery for him, no excuses. The 14th August or the 14th September we’ll be 100% ready.”

Xu Can – Beijing, China – 18-2, 3 KOs – defending his WBA Featherweight World Title against Leigh Wood:

“I’m in the best state, I wasn’t able to fight in the last 20 months. I’m fully prepared and looking forward to the fight on Saturday night.
 
“Now I want to focus on this fight, Leigh Wood is a great fighter and I’m taking this really seriously. I will think about the other fighters after Saturday night.
 
“We will show the fans a big show on Saturday night. For the fans, I will take the victory back to my family and country. Nothing can stop me.” 

Pedro Diaz, trainer of Xu Can:

“I’m very happy to be here, thanks for the opportunity in Fight Camp. I think Saturday will be a very good fight, I see this big fight starting fast, Leigh has big power and an experienced corner. However, Xu Can has a great defence against the big power.”

Leigh Wood – Nottingham, England – 24-2, 14 KOs – challenging Xu Can for the WBA Featherweight World Title:

“It’s the thing you dream of stepping into the gym as a kid, fighting for a World title. It’s not going to be good enough to fight for one, I need to win. I’m 100% confident in getting the win across the line on Saturday night. I’ve worked really hard, my testament in being in the gym and staying ready, ticking over, and improving with Ben is the reason I’ve got myself ready in short notice.
 
“My last fight for the British title I only had a short time with Ben, I was working on things and just did as I was told, I just trusted him, and it worked. Now I’ve been back in the gym after that fight, picking things up and now I understand what I’m doing. It’s going to be key for a victory on Saturday night.
 
“After my last fight I was looked at pursuing one of the champions, but there’s so many names at Featherweight – the division is red hot. I can’t look too far ahead; I’ve got to be extremely focused on Saturday because all of that can dissolve into the abyss. I need to be 100% focused on Saturday night, I am, and I truly believe I will win this fight.” 

Ben Davison, trainer of Leigh Wood:
 
“I believe Leigh can do this. We’re very confident, like you said Eddie it’s very random but fortunately Leigh was in the gym – he’s look after himself all year round. He’s very well prepared, this is the best prepared I’ve seen him physically, emotionally, tactically, we’re ready to go.
 
“Leigh’s been in with other good punchers as well, the hardest punchers don’t always become the best fighters, so you need a little bit more than that. But like I said before Leigh is very well prepared, tactically. Anybody that knows Xu knows he’s got phenomenal output and it’s up to us to deal with that. We believe we know what to do to solve it.”
 
“I believe 100% Leigh Wood will become World Champion on Saturday.”

Tommy McCarthy – Belfast, Northern Ireland – 18-2, 9 KOs – fighting Chris Billam-Smith for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles:

“There’s no real size difference, he’s 6’3 and I’m 6’2½, we’re the same weight so it’s not a major factor. Nothing concerns be about Chris, I’ve got better boxing skills, I’m elusive, I’ve got more experience, all those cards are stacked in my favour. 
 
“Chris is just rolling the dice here, it’s a big mistake to take this fight in this stage of his career. I’ve said it before, he isn’t ready for such a big jump, he hasn’t been fighting at a good level and he’s coming up to my level. I’m going to prove that on Saturday night.
 
“I will fight anyone but to fight Chris Billam-Smith to get the clean sweep and go for a World title after, you couldn’t have picked a better opponent. Some people have World title eliminators against killers, and I’ve got Chris, I couldn’t say no.
 
“Chris is a good fighter but he’s not on my level. That’s not an opinion that’s looking at the facts, he hasn’t got my experience or boxed at my level. Saturday night I’m going to thump him all over the ring.
 
“He’s been saying he’ll KO me; he’s been saying the exact same one-liner in every interview – I think I’ll stop him in the mid to late-rounds – somebody is saying it to him. He is saying what Shane is saying. I’m coming in here to smash him to bits.”

Mark Dunlop
 
“This is the triple crown of British and Irish boxing; we’re delighted that we’re facing Chris for all three belts. Chris seems like a nice guy, but I feel he’s being pushed to say the things he’s saying. At the end of the day, when you get into that ring there’s only going to be one winner and that will be Tommy McCarthy.
 
“I’ve never seen Tommy so dedicated, he hasn’t been out of camp since the last fight and that’s why he’s in incredible shape. He’s chomping at the European level and kicking the door of a World title – he’s number three in the IBF. Tommy’s going for everything, all the belts and World title. That’s why we’re here, not for the money but for the glory.” 
 
Chris Billam-Smith – Bournemouth, England – 12-1, 10 KOs – fighting Tommy McCarthy for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles:

“It’s been exciting, it’s a fight you can really get up for with everything that’s on the line. The chat and interviews between us have been good and I’m excited for Saturday.
 
“This is the right steps at the right time for me, with the British, Commonwealth and European titles being on the line this is another step on the ladder.
 
“I’ve said it all along, I believe I’ll stop Tommy in the mid to late rounds. That’s what I said at the beginning and that’s what I still believe.” 

Shane McGuigan, trainer of Chris Billam-Smith:
 
“Credit to both guys for taking the fight, it’s a domestic title but they’re both highly ranked by the governing bodies at world level. They could have sat and waited for an opportunity at the top but it’s fantastic, it allows Chris to win the European and British title, while defending his Commonwealth title.
 
“It’s exactly what he’s in this sport for, big fights, domestic fights that we can get up for. It’s a competitive fight, after Riakporhe it’s probably Chris’ hardest fight to date.
 
“I think Tommy’s not the biggest Cruiserweight, he’s very skilful, got good movement, sits back well, is very elusive but I think close mid-range size is going to tell as the fight goes on and I can see Chris stopping him in the later rounds.
 
“This is a massive step for Chris. He wasn’t touted to be the best, he didn’t go to the Olympics, he wasn’t on the national set-up, but we’ve been working together now four years and he’s been progressing gradually. He’s maximised him as an athlete throughout and I think this will be a real defining fight for him and will put him on the world scene.” 

Campbell Hatton – Manchester, England – 2-0 – fighting Jakub Laskowski in a four round Lightweight contest:

“This is a step up, he’s tricky and a tall fighter, it’ll take a big of figuring out – it’ll be a bit awkward. It’ll be a good learning experience for me.
 
“I showed big improvements from my second professional fight to my first, just because of how much more relaxed I was. I showed a lot more composure, kept my shape better just because I was handling my nerves better. It’s getting more and more the norm to me now; I’ll be even more relaxed, and we’ll see even bigger improvement on Saturday.
 
“I’ve always wanted to box at the Manchester Arena which I did last time, but it was empty. I can’t wait to do it with a full crowd, we’re getting back to normal now. My minds on the job this weekend but it’s another motivator to look good on Saturday and move on to the next.”

Jakub Laskowski – Siemianowice Slaskie, Poland – 4-4-1, 2 KOs – fighting Campbell Hatton in a four round Lightweight contest:

“I’m excited for a good fight. Campbell Hatton get ready!”

Anthony Fowler – Liverpool, England – 14-1, 11 KOs – defending his WBA International Super-Welterweight Title against Rico Mueller:

“I was a bit worried on Monday/Tuesday because I wasn’t boxing at all, I had the baby in my hand – I was thinking I better switch on here. I knew as soon as I got back in the gym with Shane and the lads I’d switch back on and I’ve got to. It’s a fight, one shot can change a fight.
 
“I’m back in the gym now, I’m on weight, my life is on the line every fight – I can’t think about the baby. I need to worry about my opponent which I am doing.
 
I left no stone unturned at camp, I’m really focused, I never have an off say. I’m switched on all the time, and I will be on Saturday night. I look at him as a 5’9 orthodox boxer, we prepared for that style. Whatever he does I’ll have an answer for.
 
“If I lose this fight, all the plans go away. I’ve got to win, and I will win.”  

Rico Mueller – Eberswalde, Germany – 28-3-1, 19 KOs – challenging Anthony Fowler for the WBA International Super-Welterweight Title:

“Unfortunately, with Conor Benn it didn’t work out but when I got the call about Fowler, I knew I wanted to take the fight. This is the first time I’ll step up in weight but I’m confident and on Saturday there will be fireworks.” 

Avni Yildirim – Istanbul, Turkey – 21-3, 12 KOs – fighting Jack Cullen for the vacant IBF International Super-Middleweight Title:

“First of all, thanks to Matchroom and my promoter for the great opportunity again. I don’t want to talk too much but I need a great comeback.
 
“After the Canelo fight, I opened a new page, I have a new division, a new target. Hopefully everything will go good.” 

Jack Cullen – Littler Lever, England – 19-2-1, 9 KOs – fighting Avni Yildirim for the vacant IBF International Super-Middleweight Title:

“I’m just grateful that I’m back out there and what an opponent I’m fighting. Yildirim is a tough, strong lad and he’s going to come for it – it’s going to be a great fight.
 
“This is it, if/when I get past him where does it put me. At the end of the day, it’s all about fighting the best and he is what one the best – I appreciate that.
 
“You’re going to see the same Jack Cullen, but I’ve got a lot of stuff we’ve been working on and it’s going to pay off. There’s no reason why I’m not winning this fight.”

Sandy Ryan – Derby, England – Professional Debut – fighting Kirstie Bavington in a six round Super-Lightweight contest:

“Respect to Kirstie for taking the fight, we know she’s going to come to win. Let’s go.
 
“My former GB teammates are out in Tokyo, what a week this is going to be – them securing medals for the country and me making my debut on Saturday. I can’t wait, right in it with 6 rounds, Kirstie coming to win, let’s go.
 
“She [Kirstie] said she’s going to take me to the trenches, so let’s see. I hope she brings that energy Saturday night.” 

Kirstie Bavington – Pensnett, England – 3-1-2, 2 KOs – fighting Sandy Ryan in a six round Super-Lightweight contest:

“I’m excited and ready to go. I’ve been training hard all through lockdown and waiting for this opportunity to come. I’m going to give it all I’ve got and take her to the trenches.” 
 
“I’m just going to enjoy every moment here, enjoy the whole experience and do the best I can – hopefully make people proud at home.”
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I’M READY TO GO ALL THE WAY SAYS RYAN

Former amateur star set for pro debut at Fight Camp
Former amateur star Sandy Ryan is promising to make a big statement on her introduction to the paid ranks this Saturday at Matchroom Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex by becoming the first person to stop Kirstie Bavington, live on Before The Bell. 
 
The 27-year-old Derby boxer, who claimed gold at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games and silver at the 2014 World Championships, had been one of Team GB’s leading medal hopes for the rescheduled Tokyo Games before deciding to turn professional with STN Sports in March. 
 
Following a glittering amateur career, Ryan will start life in the pro ranks campaigning at Super-Lightweight with trainer Clifton Mitchell, and the Midlands talent is ready to target World Titles with an ultimate ambition of fighting at the home of her beloved Derby County Football Club.
 
“To be successful and one of the best female fighters in the world is my goal,” said Ryan. “I’ve got the right team around me and I believe I can achieve that. I was going to turn pro after the Olympics but when they were postponed, I took the decision to turn over. I feel like it’s the right time and I’m ready to go all the way. 
 
“I was on the GB squad for nine years. I went to every major tournament besides the Olympic Games. I went to the World Championships and won a silver medal, European bronze, European Games bronze and Commonwealth Games gold medal. All this experience will help me massively in the pro game. 
 
“Each day that passes I get more and more excited. I can’t wait for my debut, every day I visualise my ring walk, getting in the ring and smoking the girl.
 
“I said to my manager, ‘I don’t want a walkover, get me a good opponent’, and they delivered with Kirstie. I looked on YouTube and watched a few of her fights, she seems game and she’s coming to win which is exactly what I want. I didn’t want to do a four rounder in my first fight so I’m going straight into six rounds.
 
“I’ve done this for many years, but the pro game is very different. Every fight and camp I will learn and develop, and the journey is only just beginning. I want to be up there, in years to come when people talk about women’s boxing, I want my name in the same bracket as Katie Taylor.
 
“I have massive dreams to fight for a World Title at Pride Park, the home of Derby County FC. First things first I want to make a big statement at Fight Camp. The girl has never been stopped before so let’s see!”
 
Ryan vs. Bavington is part of a huge night of action as Fight Camp returns with a bang, rising Welterweight star Conor Benn (18-0, 12 KOs) puts his WBA Continental Title on the line against Adrian Grandos (21-8-3, 15 KOs), WBA Featherweight World Champion Xu Can (18-2, 3 KOs) defends his Title against Nottingham’s Leigh Wood (24-2, 14 KOs), Tommy McCarthy (18-2, 9 KOs) and Chris Billam-Smith (12-1, 10 KOs) collide in a massive showdown for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles, former World Title challenger Avni Yildirim (21-3, 12 KOs) aims to bounce back from his loss to pound-for-pound king Canelo Alvarez when he takes on ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (19-2-1, 9 KOs), Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (14-1, 11 KOs) promises to build on his huge third-round knockout win over Jorge Fortea when he takes on Rico Mueller (28-3-1, 19 KOs) and Manchester Lightweight Campbell Hatton (2-0) continues his young journey in the pro ranks against Jakub Laskowski (4-4-1, 2 KOs).
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THE CANELO FIGHT IS OLD NEWS SAYS YILDIRIM

‘Mr Robot’ looks to bounce back against Cullen
Avni Yildirim has brushed off his defeat at the hands of pound-for-pound king Canelo Alvarez and is ready to launch his quest at a new weight when he takes on Jack Cullen on the first week of Matchroom Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex on Saturday July 31, live worldwide on DAZN.
 
Yildirim (21-3 12 KOs) took on Canelo in Miami in February, challenging the Mexican star for the WBC and WBA World Super-Middleweight Titles at the home of the Miami Dolphins, but the Turk was unable to dethrone the champion and was pulled out after the third round by then-trainer Joel Diaz.
 
The 29-year-old previously challenged Anthony Dirrell for the vacant WBC strap in February 2019, losing via a controversial split decision in Minneapolis, and now Yildirim has chosen to drop down to 164lbs in a catchweight clash with Cullen and to also team up with a new coach in Pedro Diaz.
 
“The Canelo fight is old news,” said Yildirim. “I am looking to open a new page on my career down at Middleweight. I have a new trainer in Pedro Diaz, it’s a new start and I have a new lease of life, everything feels good.”
 
Diaz is one of the world’s finest trainers, having worked with the vaunted Cuban teams in four Olympics and guiding the Dominican Republic in another, before switching to the pro game and working in the corners of modern greats like Miguel Cotto and Guillermo Rigondeaux, and Yildirim will be looking to absorb his years of experience in this new chapter.
 
Yildirim’s first assignment under Diaz sees him take on ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ over ten rounds at the second instalment of Matchroom’s Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex. Cullen fights for the second time in the unique setting having drawn with Zak Chelli last summer and added a fine win over John Docherty to his CV in November. 
 
A clash with Yildirim came out of leftfield for both men and has been well received by pundits, but Yildirim is not focusing on his British foe, but looking to make a statement in the Middleweight division and warn the belt-holders that he is gunning for their hardware.
 
“I’m in a new gym, new atmosphere,” said Yildirim. “Pedro is one of the best trainers in the world and a great guy, and I think that he can make me a World Champion at 160lbs, and I’m telling the champions – I am coming for you.
 
“I know what I want to be, a great champion at Middleweight, and Pedro believes in me and says that I can do it. My motivation is so high, and my body and my mind are both in a great place.”

Yildirim vs. Cullen is part of a huge night of action as Fight Camp returns with a bang, rising Welterweight star Conor Benn (18-0, 12 KOs) puts his WBA Continental Title on the line against Adrian Grandos (21-8-3, 15 KOs), WBA Featherweight World Champion Xu Can (18-2, 3 KOs) defends his Title against Nottingham’s Leigh Wood (24-2, 14 KOs), Tommy McCarthy (18-2, 9 KOs) and Chris Billam-Smith (12-1, 10 KOs) collide in a massive showdown for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles, Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (14-1, 11 KOs) promises to build on his huge third-round knockout win over Jorge Fortea when he takes on Rico Mueller (28-3-1, 19 KOs), Manchester Lightweight Campbell Hatton (2-0) continues his young journey in the pro ranks against Jakub Laskowski (4-4-1, 2 KOs) and former amateur star Sandy Ryan makes her highly-anticipated professional debut at Super-Lightweight against Kirstie Bavington (3-1-2, 2 KOs).
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GOLDEN BOY HAVE MADE A MISTAKE PICKING ME TO CHALLENGE CAN SAYS WOOD

‘Leigh-thal’ vows to become the UK’s latest World Champion
Leigh Wood believes that Xu Can’s promoter Golden Boy have made a mistake by choosing him as their WBA Featherweight World Champion’s latest defence on the first week of Matchroom Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex on Saturday July 31, live worldwide on DAZN.

Wood (24-2, 14 KOs), who is trained by Ben Davison alongside Undisputed Super-Lightweight World Champion Josh Taylor, landed the vacant British Featherweight Title last time out at The SSE Arena, Wembley in February by stopping previously unbeaten Doncaster fighter Reece Mould with a brutal knockout in the ninth round.

Can (18-2, 3 KOs), who is recognised by The Ring Magazine as the No.3 Featherweight in the world, won China’s first ever WBA World Title when he defeated Puerto Rico’s defending Champion Jesus Rojas with a unanimous decision at the Toyota Center, Houston, in January 2019. 

‘Monster’ hasn’t boxed since he defended his World Title against Manny Robles III at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California, way back in January 2019. Nottingham’s Wood believes that he possesses the power to ask Can serious questions as he aims to emulate Carl Froch by becoming the city’s second World Champion. 

“When opportunity knocks you’ve got to be ready,” said Wood. “I’m always in the gym all year round keeping fit, staying on it and living the life. This opportunity has come up and I’ve grabbed it with both hands. 
 
“I’m coming to win. I’m not just coming to fight for a World Title. I don’t want to be remembered as the kid that boxed for a World Title. I want to win the World Title. People can congratulate me on this fight after I win.
 
“I’ve proved that I’m way above domestic level and that my power is too much for these kids. It is a big jump from domestic level to World Title level but I’m confident in my ability and I’m confident in my power. 
 
“Xu Can’s best attribute is his punch volume. He throws a lot of punches. He doesn’t take a good shot. When he gets clipped his head is all over the shop. He’s not boxed anyone that can dig like I can – in my opinion. I’m going to be giving him questions that he’s not answered before. I’m bringing a lot more than what he’s seen before. 
 
“At the same time, he’s going to be doing the same to me. He’s going to be throwing a lot of shots at my head. I’m going to have to be smart and super fit. I’m excited about it and I’m going to rise to the challenge. I’m extremely confident. 
 
“Ben (Davison) doesn’t get it wrong. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him get it wrong. You have to take away a fighter’s best attributes. Can’s best attribute is his volume. I think he’s got the record for the most punches thrown in 12 rounds. We have to take that away from him. 
 
“I’m going to go out there and stick to the game plan, and I believe I’ll get the job done. I’m surprised that him and his team Golden Boy have specifically asked for me. Be careful what you wish for. They’ve made a mistake picking me.”

Can vs. Wood features on a huge night of action as Fight Camp returns with a bang, rising Welterweight star Conor Benn (18-0, 12 KOs) puts his WBA Continental Title on the line against Adrian Grandos (21-8-3, 15 KOs), Tommy McCarthy (18-2, 9 KOs) and Chris Billam-Smith (12-1, 10 KOs) collide in a massive showdown for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles, former World Title challenger Avni Yildirim (21-3, 12 KOs) aims to bounce back from his loss to pound-for-pound king Canelo Alvarez when he takes on ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (19-2-1, 9 KOs), Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (14-1, 11 KOs) promises to build on his huge third-round knockout win over Jorge Fortea, Manchester Lightweight Campbell Hatton (2-0) continues his young journey in the pro ranks against Jakub Laskowski (4-4-1, 2 KOs) and former amateur star Sandy Ryan makes her highly-anticipated professional debut at Super-Lightweight against Kirstie Bavington (3-1-2, 2 KOs).
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EDWARDS SET FOR FIRST TITLE DEFENCE

THE IBF WORLD flyweight champion Sunny Edwards will make a first defence of his title against the unbeaten Filipino Jayson Mama at the Copper Box Arena on Saturday September 11.

For ‘Showtime’ Sunny, 16-0, this mandatory challenge for his belt comes just over four months after his exquisite skills proved simply too much for the former long standing and decorated champion Muruti Mthalane at York Hall, where he became his promoter Frank Warren’s 149th world champion a matter of months after the Hall of Famer celebrated 40 years in the professional sport.

This time around, the 25-year-old Edwards will have the additional boost of crowd support inside the Copper Box on a show that falls squarely near the beginning of the traditional boxing ‘season’.

It should make for a spectacular start to the new campaign, with Edwards up against a 16-0 challenger, whose KO-record justifies his stage name of ‘Smasher’. The 24-year-old has stopped nine of his 16 opponents and hails from a nation with a rich pedigree in the lighter weight classes.

Promoter Frank Warren commented: “This is a bit of a step into the unknown against an unbeaten fighter who will be as confident of victory as Sunny was against Mthalane. Jayson Mama was good enough to step aside to allow Sunny his shot at the South African great and now it is his turn to attempt to upset the odds.

“To my mind though, Sunny is the best flyweight on the planet and this is just the beginning of a glorious reign as champion. He wants to unify and win the Ring Magazine belt and we will look to do that, but he has this mandatory obligation to navigate through first and he cannot take anything for granted.

“After winning his title in an eerie atmosphere, it would be fitting if the public really come out in their numbers to support Sunny on his journey as world champion and I hope the Copper Box is full to the rafters in recognition of his achievements.”

Ticket information to follow next week.
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GRANADOS PROMISES TO HUMBLE BENN

‘Tigre’ aims to stop “England’s new golden boy”
Adrian Granados says he will “humble” Conor Benn when they collide for the WBA Continental Welterweight Title at the top of Fight Camp Week 1 in Brentwood, Essex on Saturday July 31, live worldwide on DAZN.

‘Tigre’, a 33-fight veteran who is no stranger to boxing’s biggest platforms, has gone the distance with former two-time Welterweight World Champion Shawn Porter and former multi-division World Champion Adrien Broner in losing efforts – and the 31-year-old believes he is on another level to the opponents Benn has faced.

Benn produced dominant performances in his last two outings against Sebastian Formella and Samuel Vargas – leading to many in the sport labelling him as one of the new stars of the thriving 147lbs division – and Granados says that he will need to stop the 24-year-old Essex native if he is to come away with a victory. 

“I want to beat Conor Benn and get closer towards a World Title shot of my own,” said Granados. “I’m not worried about whatever Conor Benn is saying. He’s saying he’s going to stop me. He’s saying he’s going to do this and do that. You know what? I don’t talk, I just show up, and that’s what I’m going to do. 

“Confidence is good. That’s what we all have. I’m a confident fighter. I’m confident in my abilities. I just don’t talk the way he does. Some of the things he said about me, it’s like, ‘alright boy you’re going to find out now’. Don’t be talking all that mess because you’re going to get humbled real quick. 

“I’m not anybody else you ever fought. He’s making it seem like he’s going to dismantle me, he’s going to destroy me. It’s like bro, you ain’t nobody. I didn’t even know who he was until recently. I’ve got respect for the Benn name. I respect him because he’s a Benn. It’s from his dad and what his dad has done. 

“I’m going to have to stop him because I’m fighting England’s new golden boy in England. I’ve got to stop him. I know everyone was impressed with his fight with Samuel Vargas but he just kind of jumped on Sammy and Sammy wasn’t expecting all that. It was a great win for him, but I’m not Samuel Vargas. 

“I kind of see myself as a loveable loser because I just can’t get a decision. I can’t get a win at the big stage. I give hell to whoever I fight. Have they looked at my losses and think I’m the right fight to take? My career could look so much different if the right decisions were made in my fights. I know that I’m going to show the heart that I’ve got and the balls that I’ve got.

“I’ve asked questions of much better fighters than Conor Benn and I’m not coming to the U.K. to make up the numbers. This is a big opportunity for me against a fighter I know they’re hyping to be the next big thing. They’ve made a mistake in picking me. This is a big moment for me and I’m taking it.” Benn vs. Granados tops a huge night of action as Fight Camp returns with a bang, WBA Featherweight World Champion Xu Can (18-2, 3 KOs) puts his Title on the line against Nottingham’s Leigh Wood (24-2, 14 KOs), Tommy McCarthy (18-2, 9 KOs) and Chris Billam-Smith (12-1, 10 KOs) collide in a massive showdown for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles, former World Title challenger Avni Yildirim (21-3, 12 KOs) aims to bounce back from his loss to pound-for-pound king Canelo Alvarez when he takes on ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (19-2-1, 9 KOs), Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (14-1, 11 KOs) promises to build on his huge third-round knockout win over Jorge Fortea, Manchester Lightweight Campbell Hatton (2-0) continues his young journey in the pro ranks against Jakub Laskowski (4-4-1, 2 KOs) and former amateur star Sandy Ryan makes her highly-anticipated professional debut at Super-Lightweight against Kirstie Bavington (3-1-2, 2 KOs).
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Two-time national champion Arnold Obodai joins MTK Global

MTK Global is delighted to announce a managerial deal with two-time national amateur champion Arnold Obodai ahead of his plans to turn professional.

Sport has been a key part of Obodai’s life from a young age, playing basketball in the United States before turning to boxing when he returned to the UK at the age of 19.

Representing Repton ABC, Obodai won two national titles, and is now ready to make the transition from amateur into the paid ranks.

The London boxer recently signed a promotional deal with Queensberry Promotions too, and he is extremely pleased to be teaming up with MTK Global.

Obodai said:“I’m very excited about being managed by MTK Global. I know how well they look after their boxers and I’m glad to be a part of that. I’ve got a great team around me.

“MTK Global have some great champions and having a good management team around you is a contribution to success I believe. It’s a team effort although it’s you in the ring.

“I’m a two-time national champion, I won one in 91+kg category and under 91kg category, and now I want to reach the top and become a world champion.

“I want to have fun doing what I do in the process, but it’s one step at a time though. Fans can expect excitement from me!”

MTK Global Promoter Lee Eaton added:“We’re thrilled to welcome Arnold Obodai to the team. He showed in the amateurs exactly what he is capable of, and he will no doubt carry those talents into the professional ranks.”

News on when Obodai will make his professional debut will be announced in due course.

Stay up to date by subscribing to our weekly newsletter HERE and on social media @mtkglobal

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JOYCE Vs TAKAM OFFICIAL WEIGH-IN RESULTS


Official weigh-in results below:

JOYCE v TAKAM
Joyce weight: 18st 11lbs 14oz 
Takam weight: 17st 10lbs 8oz

SHEERAZ v GURRIA 
Sheeraz’s weight: 11st 13lbs 1oz
Gurria’s weight: 10st 13lbs 12oz
     
JENKINS v ESSUMAN
Jenkins weight: 10st 6lbs 10oz 
Essuman weight: 10st 6lbs 6oz
 
BOURKE v BEECH JR
Bourke’s weight: 8st 9lbs 10oz
Beech Jr’s weight: 8st 10lbs 9oz

NOAKES V ALI
Noakes’ weight: 10st 8lbs 1oz
Ali’s weight: 11st 1lbs 14oz

ADELEYE v MANEV
Adeleye’s weight: 16st 2lbs 12oz
Manev’s weight: 16st 4lbs 12oz

FOX v BARLOW
Fox’s weight: 19st 9lbs 5oz
Barlow’s weight: 16st 9lbs 3oz
 
BURKE Jr v CUMMINGS
Burke Jr’s weight: 10st 11lbs 4oz
Cummings’ weight: 11st 1lbs

FRANKHAM v JONES
Frankham weight: 9st 5lbs 10oz
Jones’ weight: 9st 5lbs 13oz

SOCZYNSKI V SEN
Soczynski’s weight: 14st 5lbs
Sen’s weight: 14st 9lbs 1lbs
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