Results from today’s weigh-in below: FIGHT #1 – 17:15 HRS 6 X 3 Minute Rounds Welterweight Contest DYLAN MORAN – 148.14lbs V M.J HALL – 149.1lbs FIGHT #2 4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Lightweight Contest MACAULEY OWEN – 134.2lbs V CONSTANTIN RADOI – 133.2lbs FIGHT #3 4 X 3 Minute Rounds Bantamweight Contest RAHEEM MUHAMMED – 116.12lbs V REISS TAYLOR – 117.2lbs FIGHT #4 6 X 3 Minute Rounds Featherweight Contest ANDREW CAIN – 126.8lbs V URIEL LOPEZ – 124.11lbs FIGHT #5 6 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Lightweight Contest WILLO HAYDEN – 138.3lbs V LEE CONNOLLY – 138.4lbs FIGHT #6 – 19:55 HRS **LIVE ON BT SPORT** 8 X 3 Minute Rounds Lightweight Contest RYAN GARNER – 133.8lbs V PEDRO MANUEL GOMES – 135.3lbs FIGHT #7 8 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Lightweight Contest EITHAN JAMES – 140.14lbs V STU GREENER – 138.10lbs FIGHT #8 10 X Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest DENZEL BENTLEY – 161.12lbs V SAM EVANS – 161.12lbs FIGHT #9 THE WBO INTERNATIONAL SUPER-MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP 10 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 168 lbs ZACH PARKER – 168lbs V MARCUS MORRISON – 167.8lbs FIGHT #10 THE VACANT IBO INTERNATIONAL MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP 10 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 160 lbs NATHAN HEANEY – 159.13lbs V SLADAN JANJANIN – 158.8lbs |
Author: admin
WORLD CLASS AND UNDEFEATED PROSPECT AARON McKENNA SIGNS LONG TERM PROMOTIONAL AGREEMENT WITH MICK HENNESSY
Challenges for the WBC Youth Middleweight crown against Ghanaian puncher Edem Bika on 13 November, live and free on Channel 5
‘The Sliencer’ links up with unbeaten brother Stevie ‘The Hitman’ under talent packed Hennessy Sports bannerLondon, UK
Unbeaten hot Irish prospect Aaron “The Silencer” McKenna has signed a long-term promotional agreement with promoter Mick Hennessy and joins undefeated brother Stevie at Hennessy Sports to form a world class strike partnership.
The middleweight ace kicks off the first fight under the new deal when he features on Hennessy’s triple-title extravaganza on Saturday 13th November at the Coventry Skydome Arena, live and free on Channel 5 in the UK and Ireland.
McKenna will challenge for the first title of his career when he contests for the WBC Youth ‘World’ Middleweight title in a battle of the punchers against Ghanaian hard-hitter Edem Bika.
Previous prospects who have won a WBC Youth crown have gone on to greatness including the World’s current best pound for pound fighter Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez – who McKenna aims to face and dethrone within the next few years.
The County Monaghan hot shot has looked sensational since turning pro following a stellar amateur career in December 2017 in Las Vegas.
Campaigning almost exclusively in the United States, McKenna has amassed an immaculate twelve fight record with 7 KO’s as he marks himself out as one of the very best young standout prospects in World boxing.
He has featured on Hennessy shows in his last two fights; last December in Redditch when he halted Jordan Grannum – who hadn’t been stopped in 79 fights – with a savage body shot in the second round and Grannum didn’t come out for the third and last month he out classed Croatian Ivica Gogosevic in Coventry. And he joins elder sibling Stevie ‘The Hitman’ under the quality packed Hennessy Sports banner where Stevie has fought since September last year before officially signing in December and has since flourished and taken his record to 9-0 with 8 knockouts.
McKenna is excited to have signed a long-term agreement with Hennessy and has seen what the renowned promoter has done for Stevie’s career and cannot wait to put his career into full throttle. Aaron said, “I can’t wait to get started under Mick and Hennessy Sports I’m really looking forward to a massive future with big plans ahead so I couldn’t be more happier putting pen to paper with him,”
“For me fighting regularly, building up my career and reputation is massively important and of course receiving the fantastic exposure on Channel 5 which has already made a big difference to me, so signing with Mick at this stage is absolutely brilliant,”
“His reputation is second to none and he has guided so many fighters to world titles so I have total confidence in that he will do the same for me and of course Stevie. I can’t wait for the day that the both of us are World Champions.”
“I’m looking to put on a real show for the fans on Saturday 13th November in Coventry when I challenge for my first title, the WBC Youth World title, which is a big statement and many great fighters have held that title, like Canelo, and have gone on to achieve great things in the sport,”
“Fighting alongside my brother Stevie again is a huge boost and the pair of us will really take the boxing world by storm together.”
Father and trainer Fergal is ecstatic that both his boys are now under the guidance of Hennessy and will now be propelled to stardom under his expert guidance.
He said, “Mick has done a fantastic job with Stevie so I’m really happy that he will be promoting Aaron as well. Both boys are really excited to be in the Hennessy Sport stable and you will now see the both of them flourish as they develop from prospects to contenders to champions. We’re in for a really exciting time.”
Hennessy has big plans for Aaron and has delivered the WBC Youth title in his first fight under the new deal. He said, “I’ve known Fergal and the boys for a long time through the amateur scene and we have developed a very strong bond and friendship over the years. I have long admired the skill and talent that both boys possess and they were incredible rising through the amateurs ranks, winning countless titles and have entered the pros with even more promise. I was delighted to officially welcome Stevie to the team in December and he has looked sensational so far maintaining his unbeaten record as he cuts through the welterweight division. So I’m now delighted to have officially signed Aaron to a long term deal that will see him challenge for the WBC Youth World title on Saturday 13th November in Coventry and winning that title will be a real statement of intent for him. To have world class young talents like Stevie and now Aaron under the Hennessy Sports banner is truly amazing for us and I’m really looking forward what the future holds with the boys and Fergal.”
Hennessy finished by saying firmly, “All of the premier players in World boxing have missed a trick with this young man. At this moment in time he is by far the best signing in World boxing, and will go on to be an absolute crossover superstar in the middleweight and super-middleweight divisions.”
HAMZAH SHEERAZ TO FACE BRADLEY SKEETE IN “BREAKOUT” FIGHT
HAMZAH SHEERAZ will defend his WBO European Super-Welterweight championship against Bradley Skeete at London’s Copper Box Arena on Saturday December 4, live on BT Sport.
It’s the biggest fight so far in the career of Sheeraz who is one of British boxing’s best upcoming talents.
Londoner Skeete (29-3, 14 KOs) has mixed it with the best and made three unbeaten defences of the British Welterweight title that he took from Sam Eggington before relinquishing the belt.
Ilford’s Sheeraz (13-0, 9 KOs) who now trains in California will be making the fourth defence of his belt and bidding for an eighth consecutive inside the distance win.
The high class card is headed by the blockbuster Light-Heavyweight rematch between Commonwealth champion Lyndon Arthur and Anthony Yarde.
“I am looking forward to facing Bradley Skeete on December 4 and it’s going to be an unbelievable fight for the fans to witness,” said Sheeraz.
“He’s won titles and is a technically experienced fighter and this makes it exciting. I’m coming to win and I will win.”
“I’ve been training away from home in the USA out of my comfort zone, away from family and friends. I like him as a fighter but on Dec 4 in the ring I’m going to beat him.
“Bradley is a good step-up opponent for me. I believe I will have too much for him come fight night. I’m looking to make a big statement and show the world I belong with the best at 154.”
Skeete is now back in business, training up in Sheffield with Dominic Ingle and had a run-out in June, scoring a third round stoppage over Dale Arrowsmith.
He insists he is a rejuvenated fighter ready to enjoy a successful swansong to his professional career.
“Obviously before I fell out of love with boxing but now I am the old me, I am buzzing,” insisted Skeete. “I am back where I started and it is a very good fight for me. In their eyes I have been there and done it and they will be looking to take my scalp. They obviously think I am at the back end of my career and I will be a good name for him but, and I am not just saying it, I love boxing again and I feel so good after a good long break.
“It is like a new lease of life. I go back a long way with Al (former trainer, Smith), but I just needed a break for one and a fresh start for two. I am doing what I do and enjoying it, now I am ready to go again and to come back in a good fight like this against Hamzah is perfect.
“He is a young, fresh champion with big things being said about him. But, listen, with my experience I am very, very confident. It is my biggest domestic fight since Sam Eggington and look how I performed on that night.
“I’ve sparred Hamzah before and he came down the gym around the time he turned pro, I think. In his early career he was coming up on my undercards or similar cards to me. He’s got a big following, he’s been guided right and he can fight.
“He is nice and tall, which is something I am not used to saying about my opponents, he can fight and he is a good kid. I’ve got no bad words to say about him and he is at the stage of his career where he needs a step-up because he hasn’t really been put in with a test yet.
“I am sure Frank and the people around him want to see if he is the real deal. He is fighting me and, after some time off, I am fresh and this is my night.”
Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren said: “Hamzah versus Bradley is a great fight and fitting for such a strong card.
“Since we signed Hamzah to Queensberry I have believed that he has World title potential and his fight against Bradley will be a breakout fight.
“He has gone about his business without fuss and the improvement in every fight is clear to see. I believe that this fight is the right step up at the right time.
“I promoted Bradley for much of his career. I know just how skilful and talented that he is. He won a British title and other titles with us. Now he is back to try and win another title belt.
“There are few nicer boxers to meet than Bradley, but for once I will be in the opposing corner on December 4.”
Sheeraz won his WBO European crown almost two years ago when he stopped Ryan Kelly inside six rounds and has made subsequent defences against Paul Kean, Guido Nicolas Pitto and Ezequiel Gurria.
Earlier this year he moved his training base to Los Angeles where he is training under experienced Ricky Funez at the Ten Goose gym in Los Angeles.
Hamzah, 22, is now highly ranked in the WBO ratings for their World crown held by Argentina’s Brian Castano.
Skeete, 34, outpointed Eggington to become British and Commonwealth champion in March 2016. He then made his domestic title defences against John Thain, Shayne Singleton and Dale Evans to win his Lonsdale belt outright.
After giving up that title, Kerman Lejarraga defeated him in a European title fight, but if he were to beat Sheeraz it would give him a ticket to the top once again.
————————————-
Tickets for Arthur v Yarde 2, live from the Copper Box Arena on Saturday December 4 are available here
HOSPITALITY – £300.00
HOSPITALITY – £250.00
FLOOR SEAT – £150.00
FLOOR SEAT – £100.00
FLOOR SEAT – £75.00
LOWER BOWL SEAT – £50.00
PARKER vs MORRISON – OFFICIAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
QUEENSBERRY staged the final press conference ahead of Saturday’s (6th Nov) show at Utilita Arena, Birmingham that is headlined by Zach Parker’s WBO International Super-Middleweight championship defence against Marcus Morrison, live on BT Sport. Woodville’s Parker (21-0, 15 KOs) will also be risking his status as number one contender for the WBO World title held by Canelo Alvarez when he faces Manchester’s Morrison (24-4, 16 KOs). Here are a selection of quotes from the press conference. FRANCIS WARREN: “It is going to be a great night in Birmingham. Zach against Marcus is the stand out fight. Marcus is a tough opponent who had a great fight with Chris Eubank. There is so much more at stake than Zach’s title. He is number one with the WBO and if he beats Marcus I’m sure he will stay up until the early hours of Sunday watching Canelo v Caleb Plant. The winner of that fight will have to fight their mandatory next year. That fight is for real if Zach comes through. The ultimate dream is for Zach to have a World title fight at Pride Park.” ZACH PARKER: “Marcus is confident. It is a good fight and we’re both going to bring it. The best man will win and that is going to be me. I can’t thank Frank Warren, Neil Marsh and BCB enough for doing all this for me because we’re on the right track. This is about getting the win. We are not going out there looking for the stoppage. I’d rather have the rounds because I’ve stopped my last two opponents early. Marcus is a tough opponent and I am going to bring all I’ve got. Marcus is a big puncher, but I will box and move. I will land the big shots when I want to.” NEIL MARSH (Parker’s manager): “Every fight is a banana skin so for Joe to think we’ve overlooked Marcus is wrong. We have a lot of respect for Joe and Marcus. It comes down to one thing. Boxing is about levels and Zach is a World class boxer. That is nothing against Marcus. I just believe Marcus is a British level fighter – a very confident one. He had a very good win in Italy and a good fight against Chris Eubank Jr . We have been sounding out Eubank because I think Zach stops him in four or five rounds. I believe Zach will stop Marcus. Now we are with Frank Warren and his team we have the right promoter campaigning for us. MARCUS MORRISON: “It’s no secret that Zach is a fully fledged Super-Middleweight, but they came looking for me. I’m a Middleweight, but I have been in with Super-Middleweights, Light-Heavyweights and held my own. I do believe he has made a big mistake. He is comfortable in his number one spot and could’ve choose an easier opponent who doesn’t carry my punch power. I can end this fight in a split-second. This will be more technical than the Eubank fight. Zach is more technically gifted than him and will try to use that to his advantage. This fight will catch fire, big shots will be traded. It’s a battle of two punchers and if I land he’ll go.” JOE GALLAGHER (Morrison’s manager and trainer): “When the fight was offered we snapped it up. When you go through Zach’s record since he beat Darryl Williams which was controversial he has been on a good run of stoppages. There is a lot of noise about Zach, but I am confident in Marcus. It’s a huge opportunity and there is no pressure on Marcus. They are talking about Zach fighting at Pride Park, but after this weekend I hope they have the number for the Etihad because I am sure Marcus would like Canelo at the home of Manchester City. It’s a live fight and no walk in the park. We’re hugely confident of an upset.” On the same bill Stoke-on-Trent’s Nathan Heaney (13-0, 5 KOs) will meet Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Sladan Janjanin (30-8, 23 KOs) for the vacant IBO Intercontinental Middleweight title over ten rounds.Former British Middleweight champion Denzel Bentley 14-1-1, 12 KOs) faces Wednesbury’s Sam Evans (10-1-1, 3 KOs) in a non-title ten rounder.In eight round action is Southampton Lightweight hope Ryan Garner (10-0, 6 KOs) who boxes Portugal’s Pedro Manuel Gomes (9-1, 2 KOs).Irish Welterweight prospect Dylan Moran (15-1, 6 KOs), exciting Liverpool Super-Bantamweight Andrew Cain (7-0, 6 KOs), Northampton Super-Lightweight Eithan James (6-0) and Dubliner Willo Hayden (1-0) all box six rounders.Telford pair, Super-Lightweight Macauley Owen (1-0, 1 KO) and Bantamweight debutant Raheem Muhammed are in four round action. |
BUATSI FACES FORMER WORLD TITLE CHALLENGER VLASOV IN MANCHESTER
Parker vs. Chisora 2 undercard shapes up for December 18 |
Joshua Buatsi will face former World Title challenger Maxim Vlasov on the undercard of Joseph Parker’s huge rematch with Derek Chisora at the AO Arena in Manchester on Saturday December 18, live worldwide on DAZN (with the exception of New Zealand and Samoa). Buatsi (15-0, 13 KOs) scored his tenth knockout in a row when he stopped Latvia’s Ricards Bolotniks in the eleventh round of their WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title Eliminator on the third and final week of Matchroom Fight Camp in August. That win followed on from his brutal fourth-round stoppage of undefeated Frenchman Daniel Blenda Dos Santos in May and the 28-year-old contender returns to the famous arena next month to take on his toughest challenge yet in the professional ranks. Russia’s Vlasov (45-4, 26 KOs) dropped a controversial twelve-round majority decision to the USA’s Joe Smith in a challenge for the vacant WBO Light-Heavyweight World Title earlier this year and the former Interim Cruiserweight World Title challenger is determined to bounce back by becoming the first man to defeat Buatsi. Also on the card, undefeated New Malden Super-Middleweight talent Lerrone Richards (15-0, 3 KOs) looks to build on his impressive EBU European Title win against Giovanni De Carolis in May when he takes on unbeaten IBO 168lbs World Champion Carlos Gongora (20-0, 15 KOs). Gongora created history by becoming Ecuador’s first ever World Champion when he scored a spectacular twelfth-round knockout win over Kazakhstan’s Ali Akhmedov last December before stopping Christopher Pearson in his maiden defence of the title on the Andrade vs. Williams undercard. ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (20-2-1, 9 KOs) returns to the scene of his Fight of the Year contender with Felix Cash back in 2019 as he clashes with Germany’s Emre Cukur (17-1, 3 KOs) for the vacant EBU European Super-Middleweight crown following his win over Avni Yildirim in July. Manchester Super-Featherweight contender Zelfa Barrett (26-1, 16 KOs) hopes to make it three wins from three fights in 2021 as he meets Australia’s Bruno ‘The Terminator’ Tarimo (26-2-2, 5 KOs) in a Final Eliminator for the IBF World Title. Derby Super-Lightweight prospect Sandy Ryan (2-0, 1 KO) is out to impress again after her vicious body shot knockout win over Aleksandra Vujovic last month in Italy, unbeaten Cruiserweight Jordan ‘Troublesome’ Thompson (11-0, 9 KOs) looks for another big KO in his home city, New Zealand Cruiserweight David Nyika (1-0, 1 KO) fights in the UK for the first time and Anthony Crolla-trained Lightweight Rhiannon Dixon (3-0) returns to action. Tickets are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200 and £400 (VIP). Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from 10am on Thursday November 4. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members. General Sale tickets can be purchased via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) from 10am on Friday November 5. |
McGINTY WANTS TO SHARE IRISH TITLE DREAM WITH HATTON
Fast-rising and undefeated Irish star Brett McGinty wants to lift the Irish title on home soil and would love to have fight great Ricky Hatton alongside him.
McGinty, a former stellar and highly decorated amateur, makes his fourth appearance as a professional with Hatton in his corner at the Coventry Skydome Arena on Saturday 13th November, live and free on Channel 5, as part of Hennessy Sports multi-titled card.
Shakan Pitters takes on Reece Cartwright for the Vacant WBC International Light-Heavyweight title, Coventry sensation River Wilson-Bent faces Tyler Denny for the vacant English Middleweight strap, and undefeated Irish Middleweight ace Aaron McKenna challenging for his first title.
McGinty, from St Johnston, County Donegal, might be at the beginning of his career but has already set an immediate target of fighting for a domestic title and taking one of boxing’s most popular figures with him.
“To fight back at home is one of my main goals,” said the 23-year-old.
“In the short-term it maybe could be for the Irish title. One thing for me is I won Irish titles in practically every age group as an amateur and I would love to win the Irish belt as a professional.
“It would be even better to have Ricky over for it as well. I’d still do my training in Manchester, but it would be amazing to have him over for fight week and of course the fight.
“Everyone loved Ricky Hatton. Not just in Manchester or England, but everywhere. He captured everyone’s attention.
“He was a man of the people, he was so down-to-earth and one of the lads, and I think that’s why the Irish liked him so much. But at the end of the day, he was a damned good boxer as well.”
McGinty is now based in Manchester to work closely with Hatton the trainer.
The marauding middleweight admitted he was a little star-struck when he first met the former world champion. Hatton turned up in his Rolls Royce with a personalised number plate, but it didn’t take long for them to hit it off.
He may have been too young to fully appreciate the famous 2005 night that saw ‘The Hitman’ crowned world champion in his home city, or his fans invading Las Vegas when he challenged Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, McGinty is wise enough to listen to one of the best.
“I really do like it in Manchester and working with Ricky is unbelievable,” he said.
“He’s passing all the knowledge he’s experienced in his career and all those world title fights, and you couldn’t really ask for anyone better, someone who has been there and done it all.
“There’s actually a couple of things we have in common in the ring. We are both aggressive fighters and he was obviously a brilliant body puncher and that is one of my strong points as well.
“We’ve been working quite a bit on that, finding the right gaps, not just letting the shots go, making sure they get through and making my shots sink in.
“I was quite successful in the amateurs and obviously trained hard but the difference in intensity was tough to start with.
“Ricky makes sure you put everything into it, but you know it is all good stuff that is going to help you, improve you in the ring and take you forward.”
McGinty is being moulded into a bodyshot specialist like his mentor and believes he can reproduce the sort of night Hatton will always be remembered for.
“It doesn’t matter where or who I am fighting, I will always entertain you,” he said.
“I’ve just got a crowd-pleasing style. I always had it in the amateurs. I’m a come-forward fighter and am never, ever on the back foot. You will always see me in an exciting fight.
“I am always there, right in front of them, and I am willing to give one and willing to take one. Anybody tuning in to watch me is definitely going to get an explosive performance.”
UPDATED FIGHT CARD Shakan Pitters v Reece Cartwright for the Vacant WBC International Light-Heavyweight Championship headlines the triple-title card that includes a fiery midlands derby between Coventry hot-shot River Wilson-Bent against Rowley Regis rival Tyler Denny for the Vacant English Middleweight Championship. Red hot Irish middleweight sensation Aaron ‘The Silencer’ McKenna will challenge for his first championship title. Aaron’s joins older brother Stevie ‘The Hitman’ McKenna who is lighting up the welterweight division with his dynamic and KO performances and faces Ghanaian hitter Richard Djarbeng over eight rounds. The rest of the Hennessy All Stars team will be out in full force starting with welterweight aceKaisee Benjamin against Germany Andreas Maier over eight rounds;Birmingham super-middleweight Idris Virgo takes on France’sGregory Trenel in an eight rounder; Sevenoaks highly talented super-welterweight Michael Hennessy Jr.; undefeated County Donegal middleweight starlet Brett McGinty; unbeaten Brighton heavyweight destroyer Tommy Welch meets Bulgarian Kristian Kirilov over four rounds. Lastly two new additions to the card,Leamington Spa lightweight Danny Quartermaine and Chelmsley Wood lightweight Scott Melvin, both in separate four round contests. |
Presented by Hennessy Sports in association with William Hill, Infinitum, Numan and Everlast, tickets are priced at £45, £55, £90 and £120 and are available from https://iceaccount.co.uk/wbc-championship-boxing-info |
CAMERON VS. MCGEE WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER
16:50 BST LIVE ON BEFORE THE BELL 4 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest THOMAS CARTY 18st 3lbs v IGORS VASILJEVS 15st 11lbs 11oz (Dublin, Ireland) (Riga, Latvia) followed by 6 x 3 mins Light-Heavyweight contest JOHN HEDGES 12st 10lbs 8oz v BEN THOMAS 12st 11lbs 12oz (Takeley, England) (Bolton, England) followed by 6 x 3 mins International Cruiserweight contest JORDAN THOMPSON 14st 3lbs 6oz v PIOTR PODLUCKI 13st 13lbs 5oz (Manchester, England) (Warsaw, Poland) followed by 8 x 2 mins International Super-Bantamweight contest ELLIE SCOTNEY 8st 11lbs 8oz v EVA CANTOS 8st 10lbs 13oz (Catford, England) (Elda, Spain) followed by 19:00 BST LIVE ON DAZN 10 x 3 mins vacant WBC International Silver Super-Featherweight Title YOUSSEF KHOUMARI 9st 3lbs 4oz v JORGE CASTANEDA 9st 2lbs 15oz (Wembley, England) (Texas, USA) followed by 10 x 3 mins vacant WBA International Light-Heavyweight Title CRAIG RICHARDS 12st 7lbs v MAREK MATYJA 12st 6lbs 7oz (Crystal Palace, England) (Wroclaw, Poland) followed by 6 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest JOHNNY FISHER 17st 4lbs 2oz v ALVARO TERRERO 16st 12lbs (Romford, England) (Cadiz, Spain) followed by 8 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest ALEN BABIC 15st 4lbs 5oz v ERIC MOLINA 18st 5lbs (Zagreb, Croatia) (Texas, USA) followed by 10 x 2 mins WBC, IBF and Ring Magazine Super-Lightweight World Titles CHANTELLE CAMERON 9st 13lbs 9oz v MARY MCGEE 9st 13lbs 10oz (Northampton, England) (Indiana, USA) |
SHE’LL RUN BUT I’LL CHASE HER DOWN SAYS MCGEE
‘Merciless’ plans to overwhelm Cameron at The O2 |
Mary McGee plans on overwhelming Chantelle Cameron when they clash for the WBC, IBF and Ring Magazine Super-Lightweight World Titles at The O2 in London this Saturday October 30, live worldwide on DAZN. ‘Merciless’ McGee (27-3, 15 KOs) comes into the fight with increased momentum, notching seven straight wins since her World Title loss in 2013 and picking up the IBF Super-Lightweight Title on the way. The American’s last win came via a ninth round TKO against Deanha Hobbs to retain her crown. “My relentlessness, my heart and my determination to not give up overwhelms certain opponents,” said McGee. “I guess they feel the power, but I’ve never thought in my mind that I’m that powerful. So for me, I feel as if she is going to run from me. She tells her game plan in interviews. I’m going to make her miss and make her pay. I already know what she’s going to do – she’s going to try to run and pot-shot. “I’m not Adriana Araujo. She came five pounds overweight. She was drained and she couldn’t pursue Chantelle. The last girl that she fought Melissa Hernandez shouldn’t even be fighting at 140lbs – she’s a great fighter but at 140lbs what can you do against someone who’s much bigger and stronger than you? It’s going to be a different fight. I know that she’s going to be doing a lot of running but I’m going to chase her down. “My experience allows me to look at certain things and understand what I can and can’t do. I’m not taking any more fights to lose. I’m coming over here to win. I’m going to fight hard – dog hard. If they think I’m going to just open up and let her hit me then they’ve got another thing coming. Nobody is stopping me. I’ve never been stopped in 31 fights and I’m not going to start now. “My plan is to beat her, to overwhelm her. I want a fair decision if it goes to the judges. My plan is to do what I’ve trained to do round to round. I’m ready to win those belts. I want to win titles but I’m not just here to hold titles. I want to build a legacy for my son and myself. When I came back to boxing it was after I had my child. I decided that this was a way to make him proud of me.” Cameron vs. McGee tops a big night of action Greenwich, ‘The Savage’ Alen Babic (8-0, 8 KOs) clashes with two-time World Title challenger Eric Molina (28-7, 20 KOs) over eight rounds, Craig Richards (16-2-1, 9 KOs) returns to the ring against Poland’s Marek Matyja (20-2-2, 9 KOs) after pushing WBA Light-Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol all the way in May, Youssef Khoumari (13-0-1, 5 KOs) takes on Jorge David Castaneda (14-1, 11 KOs) for the vacant WBC International Silver Super-Featherweight Title, ‘The Romford Bull’ Johnny Fisher (3-0, 3 KOs) faces Spain’s Alvaro Terrero (5-13-2, 3 KOs) in front of over 1,000 of his fans, Catford Super-Bantamweight Ellie Scotney (2-0) squares off against Eva Cantos (2-1) in her first fight with new trainer Shane McGuigan, Manchester Cruiserweight Jordan Thompson (10-0, 8 KOs) makes his Matchroom debut against Poland’s Piotr Podlucki (6-5, 2 KOs), Takeley Light-Heavyweight prospect John Hedges (3-0) meets Ben Thomas (2-7-3, 1 KO) over four rounds and Dublin Heavyweight Thomas Carty (1-0) has his second professional fight. |
CAMERON VS. MCGEE + UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:
“Good afternoon everyone and welcome back to the second phase of our press conference. Of course, the disappointment that Dillian Whyte will not be fit to fight against Otto Wallin this Saturday but the good news is we have a great fight card ready to go at The O2 this Saturday live around the world on DAZN. When we got the bad news about Dillian Whyte automatically you get asked the question and you have to make the decision on what do you do. Obviously we have an obligation to these men and women to make sure that we deliver for them on many different levels. One to make sure that we advance their careers, two we give them opportunities to fight, we progress their careers, and obviously they get paid as well. It was never in the mind to let these people down. We care for our fighters and there’s a massive opportunity for the people up here on this stage.”
Chantelle Cameron:
“My career has gone from strength to strength, I’m living the life and absolutely loving it.
“This is going to be my toughest fight yet and something I’ve been screaming for years now; I’ve always said I want to face a tough champion and I’ve got it.
“I never change, so, I want to make an exciting fight and Mary’s going to bring that to the ring as well. I feel like my engine is better, I don’t stop.
“It’s all a visualise, all I see. Unified Champion.”
Mary McGee:
“I’ve trained really hard for this fight; I knew a long time ago that I would be fighting Chantelle because I would listen to her saying she wanted to fight one of the champions – I made sure I prepared for her from that day. When I was offered this fight, I was excited because I knew I could sit next to Eddie Hearn.
“I knew that sitting next to Eddie Hearn, and with Matchroom, was one of the pinnacles of boxing. So, to be a female fighter who used to sell tickets out of her car all night just to get a fight, to sitting up here, I’m more than ready. It’s going to be an exciting fight.
“I started boxing when I was 14, I stayed amateur for maybe five years, after winning the golden gloves a couple years in a row, I needed to make a living for myself, so I went pro. They said you could make $100 a round boxing; it was what I loved to do so I said, ‘hey this sounds like a steal for me’. As I got better and kept winning, I realised that my opponents cost more money, so I had to get out and sell tickets night and day just to get on the card and make sure my opponent got paid.
“I know it’s going to be a tough fight; I’ve watched her beat the hell out of girls and I thought, ‘yeah, I’ve got to make sure I get out there and do my real work’. She’s not coming to lose, I made sure I worked hard for her. I take this fight very seriously.
“I don’t believe so, some of the girls she fought, like the girls she got the title from, she came overweight and out of shape. Chantelle beat her but I can beat someone who’s overweight and out of shape too. Melissa is a good champion, but at Featherweight. I’m a natural Super-Lightweight so I know I have a better chance than those other girls.
“I didn’t come all the way across the pond just to get beat, it’s going to be a rumble in the jungle, like in the Ali days, she’s not going to just beat me believe that.”
Alen Babic:
“I rate Molina for being here, but I don’t rate him as a tough test of mine. I really don’t think you can fight me on ten days’ notice, he said I don’t respect the Heavyweight division, but he took the fight and training for what – to be a fitness trainer. I think I’m going to smash him and I’m going to do it for my brother Dillian Whyte.
“I want to be knocked out; how can you be fearful when I want to be defeated. I crave it, please somebody defeat me, I love it. I want to take the 0 from my record, I don’t like it. F**k you 0.
“I box for the average Joe. I don’t just want to box for the boxing fanatics, you will value me, it’s just a matter of time. Please come out and support me, I will give it all, I’ll be reckless.”
Eric Molina”
“13-day notice, my wife and my team helped me prepare. Working with the number on promoter in the world, I just can’t say no man. It’s an honour to be here, to be out here halfway across the world, I relish these fights – I just can’t say no, I love it.
“No disrespect to the guys Babic has faced, he’s faced some tough guys. I think Babic is a tough fighter also, in the Heavyweight division, I just don’t think he has the size for this division. I’ve seen some guys even myself, I’m small for this division.
“It’s the Heavyweight division, you have to respect it and stay humble to it. It’s something I’ve learnt in the game, this fight I’ve got to use my experience and size to my advantage.
“He’s got one gear, he comes forward, I think that he’s a fan-friendly fighter because he’s reckless. When you’re reckless, you eventually run into a wreck, that’s what makes it exciting. I feel like my abilities, my counter punches, I think this fight leaves a big opportunity for me to win.
“If you look at all my fights, I’ve landed the big shot, I think Anthony Joshua was the only fight I didn’t. Even looking at the last fight with Wardley who I think is a great fighter also, he took my shots well, but I landed them all night. We’re going to see if he can take those shots on Saturday.”
Craig Richards:
“This is a fight I wanted, a tough fight, past the British level. He’s ranked above every British fighter behind me so it’s a move forward in my career. I know he’s solid, but this is what I want, a solid test, I want to keep pushing forward, kicking the door down and making waves on the scene.
“I possess a lot of power at 175lbs as you’ve seen in some of my big fights but still, I don’t get the credit that I think I deserve. I feel like sometimes it’s fights like this I’ve got to make sure I go out there and perform, get a good job done on him, otherwise people will put me to the back of the list as always.
“You hear people mention Light-Heavyweights and leave me out of the scene sometimes, although I’ve gone out there and beaten some good names. It’s fights like this I need to go out there and perform well, keep pushing forward until they’ve got no choice but to have my name at the top of the list.
“I believe that eventually everyone’s got to get into the mix right, if you look at me, I’ve been in the mix, I’ve beaten two top five prospects in Britain. I’ve beaten so many domestic talents I could have won the British Title outright, but yet no one talks about that. No other domestic guy has done what I’ve done, yet I’m still left out of the conversation. I’m in the second half of my career now and I’ve got to make it count.”
Marek Matyja:
“It’s a big chance to fight for the British market and in a British ring, it’s up to my hands and fist to fight my position.
“I saw his fight with Bivol and I saw his good side, but I didn’t come here to emphasise his good side but to use his weak side and win.”
Johnny Fisher:
“Massive thank you to everyone who’s supported me and to those who are coming on Saturday night. Big thanks to you Eddie for keeping the show on, because there would have been a lot of angry people in Romford looking for you somewhere. My Dad’s been a massive help, up until 2/3 in the morning stressing while doing his job so I’ve got to give him a massive thank you.
“None of it matters unless I put on a good performance on Saturday night. We’ve been working hard in the gym with Mark Tibbs, Jimmy Tibbs and the whole team. It’s now down to me to do the business, everything else has been laid down, it’s now time for me to put on a good performance.
“That’s going to be the challenge for this fight, we’ve been working very hard in the gym to measure my distance correctly and I’ve been sparring very well. I was sparring with Fury up in his gym before this as well, as you said, he’s a game fighter and comes to fight. I think that will and ambition he’s got, it’s my job to crush it, when he comes forward and tries to let his hands go, my speed and power will be telling, he’ll feel it in full force.”
Youssef Khoumari:
“The camp I had in Portugal was the best camp I’ve ever had; I feel like I’m in the best shape of my life and I’m ready to go on Saturday night – bring more than my A game.
“Like I’ve shown in my last couple of fights I’m ready for whatever comes on the night. I’m tough, I’m ready to go, everybody knows from what they’ve seen I love a war. I’m ready to bring the heat on the night and make it another smoky Saturday.”
Jorge Castaneda:
“I’m ready to come fight and show the people of the UK a war. I’ve trained really hard for this fight, I know Khoumari is going to bring his A game, he’s going to come and get into a hell of a fight with me, you don’t want to miss it.
“I had to take any opportunity they gave me you know; I didn’t go up in the amateur ranks, I didn’t have any amateur fights. Like I said, in the pro rankings, I’ll take any opportunity they’ll give me to showcase my skills and that I’m a great exciting fighter.
“It’s really motivating for me; I’m fighting for a title against a tough guy. These are the types of fights I need to get closer to a World Title, I know winning this fight will bring me more exciting fights, better paydays, that’s what I want. I want to fight, take this win, take this belt back to my family and to the people of Laredo, Texas.”
Ellie Scotney:
“It’s been a long time coming and I feel like I’m finding my feet now. From Saturday night I’m looking forward to getting the ball rolling.
“I’ve been there seven weeks now and I feel like I’m learning every day, if I show a glimpse of that on Saturday night, I’m going to keep learning from there.
“As soon as I get in the ring Saturday and get the business done, I’m looking to get into those big fights because they’re the ones that matter.”
Thomas Carty:
“Over the last year, this time last year, I flew out to Derek Chisora’s camp when he fought Usyk and from there it’s been non-stop. I’m delighted to be here now, kicking off my own career on a Matchroom show, which is where everyone wants to be. I’m really looking forward to Saturday night.
“I made my debut in Belgium in May, but over the last year I’ve racked up loads of rounds with quality fighters, so I do feel well experienced – I do need the rounds in the ring. I do feel as though I’ve gained massive experience over the last year sparring these guys, seeing what level they’re training and where they’re at.”
John Hedges:
“I’m looking forward to it, obviously the first one in front of a crowd and there’s a fair few coming. Obviously with Johnny’s support there’s going to be a lot of Essex in the arena. It’s going to be a good night, great night in Austria recently, I’m fresh from just having a fight. I’m looking forward to it, I’m blessed for the opportunity so thank you very much.
“I had a hard start to the pros; we’ve just been full on since then. We’ve moved to Mark Tibbs’ stable and all of us train hard, fight hard. We haven’t been taking the easiest of fights and it’s been good, I’ve been seeing the progression slowly. My last fight there was a big improvement and I look to do the same again come Saturday. I’m grateful for the opportunity and I think I’m going to shine.”
Jordan Thompson:
“It was scary because I’ve been out of the ring for two years now with a bit of a stop-start career, so when the main event got called off, I was definitely one of those that was worried. Thank you for keeping the card on and giving us all the opportunity to get out there and put on a show still.
“Sparring is sparring, hopefully on Saturday night I’ll go out there and put it into play. I’ve gained some really good experience in the last few years, even I’ve been inactive, I do see myself getting in there and in the mix with things. I won’t be shying away from any fight, so I’ll get some momentum behind me Saturday night, hopefully get out again before the end of the year and next year we get into the mix of things.”
Sharp vs. Kabore – Weights & Running Order
IFL TV BROADCAST BEGINS 5:30PM BST
Fight #1 – Super-Featherweight, 4 Rounds
LERONE HARRISON (9st 7lbs 9oz) vs. SIMAS VOLOSINAS (9st 4lbs)
Fight #2 – Bantamweight, 6 Rounds
SEAN MCGOLDRICK (8st 8lbs 3oz) vs. STEPHEN JACKSON (8st 8lbs 5oz)
Fight #3 – Cruiserweight, 6 Rounds
WILL HAMILTON (13st 12lbs 8oz) vs. IVO ZEDNICEK (14st 6oz)
Live Float – Super-Middleweight, 4 Rounds
JOE GILES (12st 1lb 6oz) vs. PAVOL GARAJ (11st 12lbs 4oz)
ESPN+ BROADCAST BEGINS 7:00PM BST / 2:00PM ET / 11:00AM PT
Fight #4 – Super-Lightweight, 8 Rounds
PIERCE O’LEARY (10st 1lb 9oz) vs. SIAR OZGUL (10st 2lb 2oz)
Fight #5 – Super-Lightweight, 6 Rounds
‘SUGAR SHY’ SHILOH DEFREITAS (10st 5lbs 8oz) vs. FONZ ALEXANDER (10st 8lbs 4oz)
Fight #6 – Super-Welterweight, 6 Rounds
SAM GILLEY (11st 3lbs 8oz) vs. DANIEL LARTEY (11st 7lbs 4oz)
Fight #7 – Super-Welterweight, 6 Rounds
JORDAN REYNOLDS (11st 3lbs) vs. RODOLFO PATERNO (10st 11lbs 6oz)
Fight #8 – WBC International Super-Welterweight Title, 10 Rounds
TURSYNBAY KULAKHMET (10st 13lbs 7oz) vs. JUAN CARLOS ABREU (10st 13lbs 5oz)
Fight #9 – WBO Global Super-Featherweight Title, 10 Rounds
ARCHIE SHARP (9st 3lbs 6oz) vs. ALEXIS BOUREIMA KABORE (9st 3lbs 4oz)