MATCHROOM AND DAZN ANNOUNCE 2023 SHOWS INCLUDING TAYLOR VS. SERRANO II ON MAY 20

by adminFebruary 6, 2023February 6, 2023News

Former two-time Heavyweight Champion of the World Anthony Joshua returns to our screens to face Jermaine Franklin live from the The O2 in London on Saturday April 1
ALL fights to be included in £9.99 monthly DAZN subscription, marking the first time in over eight years that Joshua has not been on pay-per-view in the UK
Taylor vs. Serrano II, Callum Smith, Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez and Joe Cordina all return to the ring

Former two-time unified Heavyweight Champion of the World Anthony Joshua(24-3, 22 KOs) fights at The O2 in London for the first time since 2016 as he begins life under the tutelage of new head trainer Derrick James. ‘AJ’ returns to the scene of his first World Title win over Charles Martin to face another American contender in Jermain Franklin (21-1, 14 KOs). Saginaw’s ‘989 Assassin’ pushed Dillian Whyte all the way in a close points loss at Wembley’s OVO Arena last November and is relishing his shot against one of the biggest names in the sport. British megastar Joshua is ready to begin his ascent back to the top of the Heavyweight division after suffering back-to-back losses to pound-for-pound great Oleksandr Usyk in London and Saudi Arabia.

This fight will be the first in Joshua’s new five-year partnership with DAZN to be streamed live, exclusive and worldwide on the digital sports entertainment platform, which is fast becoming the undisputed Global Home of Boxing. Joshua vs. Franklin will be included in the £9.99 per month DAZN saver subscription, making it the first fight in over eight years that fans do not need to pay an additional pay-per-view fee to watch Joshua. Beyond the UK, DAZN is available in over 200 territories. Simple to download as an app on Smart TVs, games consoles, tablets and mobiles, and subscribed to with one-click, being on DAZN will make this the most accessible Joshua fight ever.

“I’m looking forward to stepping back into the ring on April 1 at The O2 in London.” said Joshua. “Mentally and physically I feel ready. I want to put on a show and impress my coach as he has high standards. Franklin has a good style and a great attitude, which he has shown in recent fights. This will be my first fight broadcast on DAZN in the UK and it will be globally available on the platform. I want to thank DAZN for supporting both myself and the sport of boxing as a whole. I would also like to thank the team at 258 and Matchroom Boxing.”

“I’m ready to show the world why it’s time for me to take my place at the top of the Heavyweight division,” said Franklin. “Joshua had his time. It’s my time to shock the world! This fight isn’t going to the judge’s card. I will have win number 22 come April 1. That ain’t no April Fool’s joke.”

Alongside Joshua vs. Franklin, Matchroom and DAZN have announced its largest ever schedule of content for the first half of 2023 that will see even more iconic and emerging boxing talent, including five other premium fights, on its platform alongside an ever-greater roster of other sporting entertainment.

The following shows will be shown live and exclusive on DAZN with further fights and full undercard details to be announced shortly:

Saturday, February 18: Leigh Wood vs. Mauricio LaraHometown hero Leigh Wood (26-2, 16 KOs) puts his WBA Featherweight World Title on the line against big-punching Mexican Mauricio Lara (25-2-1, 18 KOs) as Matchroom’s 2023 schedule in the UK begins with a bang. ‘Leigh-thal’ memorably stopped Michael Conlan in the 12^th and final round of his epic first defence of the WBA 126lbs title back in March 2022, knocking the Irishman out of the ring in brutal fashion to end their Fight of the Year stunner. ‘Bronco’ has been waiting patiently for his shot at Wood after their eagerly anticipated September 24 fight was postponed following a torn bicep suffered by Wood in sparring, but the Featherweight KO artist finally gets his dream World Title opportunity this month in what promises to be an epic battle between two knockout artists.

Saturday, March 11: Callum Smith vs. Pawel StepienThe WBC’s No.1 ranked Light-Heavyweight contender Callum Smith (29-1, 21 KOs) returns home to face undefeated Pole Pawel Stepien (18-0-1, 12 KOs) at the M&S Bank Arena as he looks to secure a showdown with unified WBC, WBO and IBF ruler Artur Beterbiev later in the year. A stacked undercard sees Australia’s WBO Global Super-Lightweight Champion Liam Paro (23-0, 14 KOs) put his title on the line against local favourite Robbie Davies Jr (23-3, 15 KOs) following his sensational first-round KO win over fellow Aussie Brock Jarvis last October. One of the hottest prospects in America Diego Pacheco (17-0, 14 KOs) fights in the UK for the first time as faces another step up against Little Lever’s all-action Super-Middleweight Jack Cullen (21-3-1, 9 KOs). Full undercard details to follow.

Saturday, March 18: Cyrus Pattinson vs. Chris JenkinsMatchroom’s first NXTGEN card of the year at the Utilita Arena Newcastle features some of the very best prospects in the North East looking to take the next steps in their promising careers. Former Team GB standout Cyrus Pattinson (5-0, 3 KOs) faces his toughest test so far in the professional ranks against Wales’ former British Welterweight Champion Chris Jenkins (23-6-3, 8 KOs) while Tokyo 2020 Olympic Silver Medallist turned Welterweight prospect Pat McCormack (3-0, 2 KOs) looks to wow his home crowd against Italy’s Dario Socci (15-7-2, 6 KOs) in his first scheduled eight-round contest. Also on the card, Birmingham’s Solomon Dacres (5-0, 1 KO) squares off with Newcastle’s Robert Ismay (11-0, 4 KOs) for the English Heavyweight Title.

Saturday, April 8: Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez vs. Cristian GonzalezBoxing’s youngest World Champion Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez (17-0, 11 KOs) attempts to become a two-weight ruler when he clashes with Cristian ‘El Chicharito’ Gonzalez (15-1, 5 KOs) for the vacant WBO 112lbs at the Boeing Center at Tech Port, San Antonio. The 23-year-old sensation from San Antonio, Texas enjoyed a stellar 2022, becoming boxing’s youngest active World Champion in February, stepping in late to meet Carlos Cuadras for the vacant WBC Super-Flyweight strap in Phoenix and then putting on a stunning display in his first defence, stopping Thai star Srisaket Sor Rungvisai on his San Antonio home turf in June inside eight rounds. He was named the Fighter of the Year by ESPN in their midyear awards for 2022 before outpointing Israel Gonzalez on the ‘Canelo’ vs. ‘GGG’ undercard in September.

Saturday, April 22: Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov vs. Joe CordinaUnbeaten Welshman Joe Cordina (15-0, 9 KOs) attempts to win his IBF Super-Featherweight World Title back against current belt-holder Shavkatdzhon Rakhmiov (17-0-1, 14 KOs) at the Cardiff International Arena. ‘The Welsh Wizard’ captured the famous red and gold belt with a stunning one-punch knockout of Japan’s Kenichi Ogawa on a memorable night at the arena last June. Cordina was scheduled to make the first defence of his World Title against Rakhimov in Abu Dhabi last November but suffered a hand injury that required surgery and was subsequently stripped of his title by the IBF. Rakhimov won the vacant title by stopping Manchester’s Zelfa Barrett in nine rounds on the undercard of Dmitry Bivol vs. Gilberto Ramirez.

Saturday, May 20: Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2Irish legend Katie Taylor (22-0, 6 KOs) fights in Ireland for the first time in her professional career, putting her Undisputed Lightweight World Title on the line once more against Puerto Rican star Amanda Serrano (44-2-1, 30 KOs) in an unmissable rematch. Taylor cemented herself as the greatest female fighter on the planet by edging out Serrano in an epic fight for the ages on an iconic night at a sold-out Madison Square Garden in New York last April. The global superstar retained her belts after a Fight of the Year contender with multi-division World Champion Serrano – the first women’s boxing bout to headline the famous MSG in its 140-year history, attracting an unprecedented audience of 1.5 million tuning in globally on DAZN.

Alongside this jampacked schedule of boxing, in the last 12 months DAZN has added 75 media properties to its UK offering, giving – in particular – combat sports fans access to the widest range of live and on demand content. The Professional Fighters League (PFL) partnered with DAZN to launch PFL Europe, the inaugural event will be held in Newcastle on 25 March and broadcast globally on DAZN.

In the UK DAZN is available as a Monthly Saver (x12) at £9.99, an Annual Super Saver priced at £99.99 and a Flexible Monthly Pass priced at £19.99.

How to watch DAZN Watching on DAZN is simple and easy. Go to the app store on your chosen device, search for and download the DAZN app.   Create an account, choose a plan and start watching anywhere – on your phone, tablet, smart TV and gaming consoles. You can log in to multiple devices and enjoy top sporting content anywhere.

“What an incredible year Matchroom and DAZN have in store for fight fans around the world – and this is just the beginning,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “The UK’s biggest boxing star Anthony Joshua returns to our screens on April 1 as he looks to reclaim his spot as the number one Heavyweight on the plant. ‘AJ’ has reset and refocused and he is on a mission to defy his critics as he kicks off his exciting new partnership with DAZN. Modern legends Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano run it back for all of the marbles at Lightweight in what will be one of the most iconic sporting events that Ireland has ever seen on May 20 in Dublin. Their first meeting at MSG last year was one of the very best night’s I’ve experienced in boxing and the rematch promises to be even bigger and better.

“Callum Smith is within touching distance of a shot at unified Light-Heavyweight ruler Artur Beterbiev and can’t avoid any slip-ups against Pawel Stepien on his Liverpool homecoming on March 11 and boxing’s youngest World Champion Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez attempts to create even more history on April 8 when he goes for gold at 112lbs against Cristian Gonzalez. ‘The Welsh Wizard’ Joe Cordina attempts to recapture his IBF Super-Featherweight World Title against Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov in Cardiff on April 22 and the young guns are out to impress in our first NXTGEN event of the year in Newcastle on March 18 – not forgetting the small matter of Leigh Wood vs. Mauricio Lara in just under two weeks’ time in Nottingham. It is without a doubt the best schedule in boxing and there’s still so much more to come. Watch it all live on DAZN.”

“This is the most eagerly anticipated fight of Anthony Joshua’s career, and, at DAZN, we are delighted to deliver it to fans in the UK and around the world as part of their monthly subscription, making it the most accessible ‘AJ’ fight in a decade”, DAZN CEO Shay Segev said. “Beyond our unrivalled boxing schedule, we are committed to building our library of sports content the UK. Our tie-up with KSI’s Misfits to create X Series and joint venture with Professional Fighters League to launch PFL Europe are just two examples of what we will do to deliver top sports content to DAZN subscribers.”

“We have worked with Anthony Joshua for five years, and we are incredibly excited to be kicking off our new UK relationship with him on April 1,” said Joseph Markowski, CEO North America, DAZN Group. “Being ringside for Taylor vs. Serrano at a sold-out MSG was one of the great sporting moments of my life; what an incredible atmosphere and fight. Alongside this blockbuster, the schedule we have curated so far features some of our best talent, Jesse Rodriguez, Callum Smith and Joe Cordina. All live and exclusive on DAZN.”

“This is the start of a hugely important phase for ‘AJ’ and it is exciting to be kicking it off exclusively on DAZN and at The O2 in London, a place he has had many memorable nights,” said 258 Managing Director Freddie Cunningham.

Tagged : DAZN / Matchroom Sport

CALLUM SMITH FACES UNBEATEN POLE PAWEL STEPIEN ON MARCH 11 IN LIVERPOOL

by adminFebruary 6, 2023February 6, 2023News

Paro vs. Davies Jr and Pacheco vs. Cullen land on action-packed undercard

Callum Smith fights in Liverpool for the first time since 2019 when he faces undefeated world-ranked Pole Pawel Stepien at the top of a stacked card at the M&S Bank Arena on Saturday March 11 that features Liam Paro vs. Robbie Davies Jr and Diego Pacheco vs. Jack Cullen, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).

The WBC’s No.1 ranked Light-Heavyweight Smith (29-1, 21 KOs) returns home for a must-win clash with the IBF’s No.7 ranked 175-pounder Stepien (18-0-1, 12KOs) as he looks to secure a mouth-watering showdown with unified WBC, WBO and IBF ruler Artur Beterbiev later in the year.

Former WBA and Ring Magazine Super-Middleweight World Champion ‘Mundo’ has won both of his fights at Light-Heavyweight in brutal fashion following a move up in weight after his points loss to pound-for-pound superstar Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez at the Almodome in San Antonio, USA back in December 2020.

The 32-year-old Liverpudlian destroyed Lenin Castillo with a sickening second round KO to return to winning ways on the undercard of the first meeting between Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua at the home of Tottenham Hotspur in September 2021 before taking out France’s Mathieu Bauderlique in four rounds just under a year later in Saudi Arabia.

Szczecin’s Stepien remains unbeaten since joining the professional ranks in December 2015, with the only blemish on his 19-fight career being a draw with Marek Matyja in 2019, and the 32-year-old is ranked in the world’s top 15 with the WBO, IBF and WBA – picking up the Polish and IBF Intercontinental Light-Heavyweight Titles in 2019 and 2021 respectively.

A stacked undercard sees Australia’s WBO Global Super-Lightweight Champion Liam Paro (23-0, 14 KOs) put his title on the line against local favourite Robbie Davies Jr (23-3, 15 KOs) following his sensational first-round KO win over fellow Aussie Brock Jarvis at the South Bank Piazza in South Brisbane last October.

One of the hottest prospects in American boxing Diego Pacheco (17-0, 14 KOs) looks to impress on his first appearance in the UK, stepping-up against Little Lever’s Jack Cullen (21-3-1, 9 KOs) in what promises to be an all-action battle for the WBO International Super-Middleweight Title.

Romford Heavyweight sensation Johnny Fisher (7-0, 6 KOs) takes ‘The Romford Bull’ Army to Liverpool for the first time as he faces Italy’s Alfonso Damiani (6-2, 2 KOs) over eight rounds and local Light-Heavyweight Thomas Whittaker-Hart (7-1, 3 KOs) aims to avenge his first loss against Darewn’s Mickey Ellison (14-4, 5 KOs) in a rematch for the Central Area Title.

Warrington Lightweight talent Rhiannon Dixon (7-0) squares off with Wombourne’s Vicky Wilkinson (5-0-1) for the Commonwealth Title and Oldham’s Aqib Fiaz (10-0) takes on Yeovil’s Dean Dodge (9-2-1, 3 KOs) over eight rounds at Super-Featherweight, plus there’s action for Hyde’s Campbell Hatton (9-0, 3 KOs), Chester Middleweight Paddy Lacey (7-0, 1 KO) and Billericay Middleweight George Liddard (1-0, 1 KO).

“Pawel Stepien is just what I need going into the Artur Beterbiev fight,” said Smith. “He hasn’t ever tasted defeat and he’s ranked in the top 15 by 3 governing bodies. He is certainly no walkover and I know I can’t afford to make any mistakes. The prize waiting for me should I win means you’ll be seeing the best from me on March 11.”

“We always love returning to Liverpool for one of the best atmospheres in the UK, and we’ve got a stacked card from top to bottom for you all on March 11, said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Callum Smith can’t afford any slip-ups against Pawel Stepien – he’s next in line to face unified World Champion Artur Beterbiev and that’s a fight I really fancy him in if he gets past the unbeaten Pole.

“We’re spoilt for choice with this cracking undercard, Liam Paro looked sensational last time out and Robbie Davies Jr finally gets the big fight he’s been craving. Diego Pacheco against Jack Cullen can only be fireworks and ‘The Romford Bull’ Army are going to be bringing all the noise for Johnny Fisher! Thomas Whittaker-Hart can’t afford another loss this early in his career and there’s so much more on offer. Watch it all live around the world on DAZN.”

Tickets for Smith vs. Stepien are priced £40, £60, £100, £150 and £300 (VIP).

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from midday on Tuesday February 7. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on-sale time.

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and the M&S Bank Arena from midday on Wednesday February 8.

Tagged : Callum Smith / Pawel Stepien

APBC Cut/Cornerman Course Set for 18th February 2023 in Worksop, Notts.

by adminJanuary 18, 2023January 18, 2023News

APBC Cut/Cornerman Course Set for 18th February 2023 in Worksop, Notts.

The British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) have arranged an Association of Professional Boxing Commissions (APBC) Certified Corner/Cutman Course, at the Stanley Street Sports and Social Club in Worksop, Nottinghamshire on Saturday 18th February 2023, that is essential for all Coaches and Cornermen.

ALL Coaches are welcome, as these courses are essential for all coaches in our sport whether Pro, Amateur or Unlicensed.

The Cut/Cornerman course covers all aspects from weigh-in to post fight.

Subjects covered:

Duty of Care
Head Trauma Signs & Symptoms
Coaches/Cornermen/Cutman Responsibilities
Cutman’s Tools of the Trade
Professional Hand Bandaging
Weight Cutting and Weigh-in
Working the Corner – Contest and Sparring
Types of Injuries and Rules Pertaining to Injuries.
Corner Treatment of Bruising, Swellings and Cuts
Post Fight

The Course will take place at Stanley Street Sports and Social Club in Worksop, Nottinghamshire on Saturday 18th February 2023

Times and fees for the course are:

1pm to 5pm – Cornerman/Cutman Course – £105 per person

Photo ID as well as a Passport-Size Head & Shoulders Photo for Certification are required, so please bring with you on the day.

To register: Call/Text/WhatsApp: +44 (0)7789 364702 – e.mail: admin@boxbiba.com or office@apbcboxing.com

Download Registration form here:

https://boxbiba.com/CutmanCourseRegistration18thFebruary2023Worksop.pdf

The course takes place on Saturday 18th February 2023 between 1pm – 5pm at:

Stanley Street Sports & Social Club

2 Stanley Street

Worksop

Nottinghamshire S81 7HX

United Kingdom

#BIBAChangingBoxingForGood

www.boxbiba.com

Tagged : Association of Professional Boxing Commissions (APBC) / Cornerman Course

Distinguished Professor Brad Donohue Joins BIBA Medical Advisory Board

by adminJanuary 18, 2023January 18, 2023News

Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in the United States, Brad Donohue, BA, Ph.D., has been appointed to the British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) Medical Advisory Board.

Having experience as a national amateur boxing champion in the U.S., Dr. Donohue is known internationally for his work developing the first sport-specific psychological assessment screens and interventions for athletes’ mental health and performance (clinical trials funded by NIH/NIDA in the U.S.)

Upon his appointment Dr. Donohue said, “I’m extremely honoured to be appointed to this very prestigious Board.

“Professor Michael Graham, Mr. Gianluca Di Caro and Mr. Chris Wardrope have assembled an impeccable Board of luminaries who have established hallmark strategies safeguarding boxers.

“I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves and get to work optimising the mental and physical health of BIBA boxers.”

BIBA Vice President Gianluca Di Caro added, “it is a true honour to have Dr Donohue join our team, .he is exceptionally qualified, as are all BIBA Medical Advisory Board members, and of course being a former boxer really gives him an unequalled insight of the boxer’s psyche, as is clear when you read his published papers.

“Dr Donohue joins fellow highly qualified specialists on our esteemed Medical Advisory Board headed by Chief Medical Officer: Professor M.R. Graham and includes Chief Consultant Surgeon: Mr Ken Park, Regional Chief Physiotherapy Officer : Mark Heffernan, Regional CMO (England): Professor Bruce Davies, Regional CMO (Scotland): Professor Julian S Baker, Deputy Regional CMO (Scotland): Dr. Rajeev McCrea-Routray, Regional CMO (Wales) Dr. John Pates,
Regional CMO (Southern Region) Dr. Yousef Rashid and Chief Medical Officer (Malta) Dr. Mark Xuereb.

“Dr Donohue’s experience and knowledge can only help BIBA raise the bar even higher, Health & Safety and Boxer Mental Wellness wise.

“BIBA are already the indisputable industry leader, with regard to boxer Health & Safety.

“Following three major life changing injuries and one fatality on BBBofC sanctioned, not BIBA sanctioned, professional boxing events in the UK in 2016, the BIBA board decided it was time for additional procedures in an attempt to try and reduce further bleed to the brain injuries.

“The following year we recruited leading head injury specialist and forensic scientist Professor Graham to the BIBA Medical Committee, as well as became the first boxing commission world-wide to introduce the potentially life saving Infra-scanners ringside at our events.

“In addition to introducing Infra-Scanners, we also introduced further Health & Safety Initiatives, including Rehydration Drinks authorised for contest of eight rounds and more, as well as making it mandatory that all BIBA officials are fully trained on Head Trauma Signs & Symptoms Awareness.

“The Head Trauma Signs & Symptoms Awareness initiative has now been extended and all APBC Accredited courses run by our team, whether Referee/Judge, Supervisor/Inspector or Cut/Cornerman, include not only Head Trauma Signs & Symptoms but also Duty of Care

“It is our belief that it is essential that in order to be able to deliver the highest levels of duty of care to competing boxers on events sanctioned by ourselves that the officials in the ring and ringside, as well as those in the corner of boxers when competing, are aware of the signs of possible head trauma.

“When combined with other BIBA initiatives, such as Infra-Scanners ringside, Rehydration Drinks, Weight-Cutting monitoring etc. we believe that these initiatives will ensure that those that compete on BIBA sanctioned events are receiving the highest possible levels of care, within the sport.

“Dr Donohue’s timing couldn’t be better, as later this month we will be announcing the introduction a new bit of kit, an advanced medical process for the treatment of head trauma injuries within sport, this will be a game changer, not just for Boxing, but all sports where head injuries occur.

“I look forward to working closely with Dr Donohue, and of course all our established Medical Advisory team, on this exciting life changing project as well in relation to the development of further Health & Safety and Boxer Mental Wellness initiatives for the boxers and our beloved sport.”

#BIBAChangingBoxingForGood

www.boxbiba.com

Tagged : Distinguished Professor Brad Donohue

ADELEYE VS BEZUS HEADLINE YORK HALL CARD ON 17 FEB

by adminJanuary 13, 2023January 13, 2023News

THE IBF EUROPEAN lightweight champion Mark Chamberlain and heavyweight contender David Adeleye are both in headline action when Queensberry makes a return to York Hall on Friday February 17, live on BT Sport.

The 24-year-old Chamberlain, 11-0 (7 KOs) won his title at Wembley with a shutout 10-round demolition of Marc Vidal in July of last year, before being forced to withdraw from a November defence due to a shoulder injury.

The Waterlooville puncher will go up against the Italian Vairo Lenti, 10-4-1 (1 KO), the former champion of Italy who has won his last three fights and last fought in July.

Adeleye, 10-0 (9 KOs), fought only twice last year due to injury, but managed to add two stoppages to his KO-count by extinguishing the threat of Chris Healey and Elvis Garcia.

The Ladbroke Grove heavy faces a fellow unbeaten fighter in the Ukrainian Dmytro Bezus, 10-0 (5 KOs), who resides in Liga, Latvia.

The 6ft 6″ 33-year-old last fought in October of last year, recording a fourth round stoppage over Lukas Wacker at the Arena Riga.

Stylish super lightweight Henry Turner (9-0, 2), who won the WBC International Silver title over in Dubai in November, will make a first defence of his belt at York Hall over 10 rounds.

Thrilling super featherweight prospect Royston Barney-Smith (4-0, 2 KOs) will be looking to make it a knockout treble in his fifth four-rounder after scoring quickfire stoppages in his last two fights, while Northampton super welterweight Carl Fail (7-0, 2) will have his second fight under the Queensberry banner, also over four.

Nottingham light heavyweight Ezra Taylor (4-0, 3) will have his second six-rounder after impressively stopping Mohamed Cherif Benchadi last time out in Telford, with Loughton super bantamweight Adan Mohamed (7-0, 2) also fighting over six. Batley super lightweight Amaar Akbar (4-0) and Penge cruiserweight Aloys Junior (2-1, 2) will both fight in four round contests.

“This is a great opportunity for Mark Chamberlain and David Adeleye to enjoy top billing at York Hall,” said promoter Frank Warren. “I expect both of them to really push on this year and reinforce their status as two of the leading prospects in the country and this will be an important night for them after missing out on fights last year due to injury.

“I believe it is a realistic aim for both Mark and David to be hunting down British titles in the near future and I am confident they would be successful in this.

“Henry Turner won his WBC belt on Middle East soil so I am looking forward to him stepping it up in what will be his 10th fight as a pro and it won’t be long before Carl Fail finds himself in the title mix.

“Royston Barney-Smith is now showing us his genuinely elite quality in the ring and this young man is going to be a big force in years to come. I cannot wait to see him back in action.

“I am also looking forward to checking out the progress of Ezra Taylor, Amaar Akbar, Adan Mohamed and Aloys Jr, who are all showing promising signs and are quickly becoming ones to watch. “

Tickets for the show at York Hall on Friday, 17 February are on sale now available from ticketmaster.co.uk.

Tagged : David Adeleye / Dmytro Bezus

Chris Wardrope Appointed Chairman Central Area and also to the Main Board of BIBA

by adminNovember 2, 2022November 2, 2022News

It is with great pleasure that we today announce the appointment of Chris Wardrope, FCBI, Chartered Banker as Chairman of the Central Area Board. With the appointment Chris will also take a seat upon the main board of directors, during what is a very exciting time for the British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA). The appointment closely follows Class A Star referee Ian John-Lewis joining the organisation.

With a career in Corporate Banking extending over 30 years, and having previously been awarded a Fellowship by the Chartered Banker Institute for services to Banking, Chris will be aiding in the development of BIBA in the region, as well as acting as supervisor & inspector at our many events.

His association with boxing also extends back over 30 years, including being involved in the amateur code, as both a fighter and trainer for many years. More recently within professional boxing, Chris has served for a number of years as the UK & European Co-ordinator and Supervisor for the World Boxing Foundation (WBF). During his time with the organisation Chris has worked closely with the WBF President Mick Croucher in promoting and developing the sanctioning body across the globe.

With strong experience as a supervisor / inspector, Chris has also carried out these duties not only for the WBF, but also in world title fights for the World Boxing Union (WBU). In addition he is a published boxing writer and fight artist. Originally from Scotland, Chris now resides in Chorley, Lancashire.

Chris commented: “Anyone who knows me or has worked with me in the past understands that while I am a career Corporate Banker, my passion in life is Boxing.

“It is a sport I love and have been involved in and studied from a very young age.

“With my professional background, I have experience across many business sectors including strategic planning, business development and financial advice.

“This experience is all cross transferable to my new role within BIBA and I believe that I can add an additional layer of professionalism, balance and guidance to the board, as well as some fresh ideas for the further development of BIBA across not only the UK but globally.

“Most of all, I am boxing man through and through and I look forward to working with the fighters, managers and promoters and assisting them to fulfil their potential.

“I look forward to working at our up coming shows across the region and the UK.”

BIBA Vice President Gianluca Di Caro added: “It is with great pleasure that we appoint Chris, as Chairman of the Central Area and to the main board of directors.

“Having worked with Chris at numerous events, what stood out for us at BIBA was his knowledge of the sport, his professionalism and treatment of the fighters and those around him, which mirrors the BIBA ethos.

“As such we were delighted when we approached him with this opportunity and he accepted readily.

“We welcome Chris to the ever growing BIBA family with open arms and look forward to working closely with him to develop BIBA and our beloved sport further”.

Chris can be contacted at:

Tel/WhatsApp: +44 (0)7702 091803 or via email at cwardrope@boxbiba.com

About the British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA)

Founded in 2016, the British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) is a professional Boxing governing, licensing and sanctioning organisation that operates primarily, but not exclusively, in the United Kingdom.

The British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) are the indisputable industry leader, with regard to Health & Safety, within the professional boxing world.

BIBA became the first European Commission to become one hundred percent compliant with the American Federal act. “The Professional Boxing Safety Act 1996”

In 2017, following three major life changing injuries and one fatality on BBBofC sanctioned, not BIBA sanctioned, professional boxing events in the UK in 2016, the BIBA board decided it was time for additional procedures in an attempt to try and reduce further bleed to the brain injuries.

BIBA recruited leading head injury specialist and forensic scientist Professor Michael Graham MBChB; JCPTGP; PhD; FRSM; MPhysoc; BASEM; MICR; MCSFS; PCCMH; APIL Expert; FSB to the BIBA Medical Committee.

BIBA became the first boxing commission world-wide to introduce the potentially life saving Infra-scanners at all events – https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/boxing/article-4197732/BIBA-introduces-scanners-help-prevent-brain-injuries.html

To ensure the highest possible level of Health & Safety for boxers competing on British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) sanctioned events all BIBA licensed officials and coaches are required to have attended a Head Trauma Signs & Symptoms Awareness course annually.

It is our belief that it is essential that in order to be able to deliver the highest levels of duty of care to competing boxers on events sanctioned by ourselves that the officials in the ring and ringside, as well as those in the corner of BIBA licensed boxers when competing, are aware of the signs of possible head trauma.

When combined with other BIBA initiatives, such as Infra-Scanners ringside, Rehydration Drinks, Weight-Cutting monitoring etc. we believe that these initiatives will ensure that those that compete on BIBA sanctioned events are receiving the highest possible levels of care, Health & Safety wise, in the sport.

The British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) also believe that it is imperative that procedures are in place to assist boxers when they retire from competing.

It is a well documented fact that when Athletes from any sport retire that the sudden change of lifestyle, as well as the loss of structure required for competition may cause Mental Health issues, such as depression, anxiety and even drug or alcohol dependency.

As such BIBA have not only introduced a system of retraining retired boxers to be Officials and other roles such as Coaches etc to enable them to remain fully involved in the sport.

In addition BIBA appointed three eminent Sports Psychologists Dr John Pates PhD; Mphil; BA (Jt Hons), PGCE, PDip, Professor Julien S Baker Ph.D, D.Sc, FPhysiol, FHBA, FRSB, FICR, C.Biol, C.Sci and Professor Bruce Davies Ph.D, FACSM, Emeritus Professor of Applied Physiology at the University of South Wales, UK, to the BIBA Medical Advisory Committee to assist the retired boxers as they make the transition from competing to a non-competitive roles within the sport It should be noted all are also leading Health & Exercise Scientists and world authorities on Head Injuries,

BIBA is a signatory of the Mental Health Charter for Sport and Recreation and have assembled a Committee, that includes Professor Graham, Professor Baker and Dr Pates amongst other specialists to create strategies and procedures to assist those in need of support.

The British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) developed the BIBA Health & Safety Executive website, that not only covers Health & Safety advice, resources and information for boxers, but also features Mental Health awareness information and resources.

Whilst it is essential that we get the much needed information and resources available on the very important subject of Mental Health, we believe that we should also include equally important Health & Safety policies, resources and research, especially those that may reduce the potential risks of bleeds to the brain as well as take a serious look at the current rules of the sport to improve the Health & Safety of those that compete.

www.boxbiba.com

Tagged : British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) / Chris Wardrope

CLASS A STAR CHAMPIONSHIP REFEREE IAN JOHN-LEWIS JOINS THE BRITISH & IRISH BOXING AUTHORITY (BIBA)

by adminSeptember 30, 2022September 30, 2022News

It was officially announced today that the highly respected and world class championship referee, Ian John-Lewis, has joined the British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA). This follows on from his surprise resignation from the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) earlier this month.

A former amateur and professional boxer, he has used this vital experience when he became a referee. In 2000 he became Britain’s first and still only Black A Star referee. in 2010 he became the youngest British referee to be the ‘man in the middle’ at the WBC world heavyweight championship and in 2018 was voted the worlds best boxing referee by his qualified peers.

Now in his 30th year as an official he has refereed 1044 championship bouts, mostly in Britain, and 77 championship contests overseas in 19 different countries including; Italy (15), Denmark (6), Germany (11), France (4), Japan (8), Spain (3), Poland (5), South Africa (2), Turkey (3), Belgium (1), Canada (3), Romania (1), Sweden (1), Russia (5), Zambia (1), Finland (2), USA (3), Saudi Arabia (2) and Gibraltar (2).

John-Lewis’ inaugural professional refereeing assignment was the contest between Darren Fifield and Kevin Jenkins at the famous York Hall in Bethnal Green on the 17th February 1993 and his most recent Championship refereeing assignment was on the 10th December 2021, when he was the third man in the ring for the World Boxing Council (WBC) World Youth Championship contest at the National Sports Centre in Crystal Palace, London between Aaron McKenna and Carlos Galego Montijo.

In addition John-Lewis also judged 442 bouts, of which 305 were Championship contests and again whilst most were in the UK, he also travelled the world on judging assignments.

John-Lewis’ first judging assignment was the World Boxing Federation (WBFed) Pan European Championship fight between Jason Hart and Lester Jacobs that took place at Caesars Nightclub in Streatham, London on the 25th November 1998 and his most recent Championship judging assignment being the IBF, WBA, WBC and WBO Championship contest between Undisputed Champion Josh Taylor and and WBO’s #1 mandatory challenger Jack Catterall that took place on the 26th February 2022 at the SSE Hydro in Glasgow.

On making the announcement, British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) Vice President Gianluca Di Caro said;

“It is truly an honour to welcome one of the very best referees in the world to the BIBA family.

“It seems I am not the only one that is overjoyed that Ian has joined us, on Wednesday, following a photo of Ian and myself being posted on social media, it seemed that not only virtually every BIBA members posted extremely positive comments welcoming Ian aboard, but also many of the boxers that Ian had refereed over the years also posted fantastic reviews and offered their congratulations.

“I, and am sure all BIBA officials, look forward to working with Ian, after all, and as it says on the jacket of his biography – ‘he is a fair man’, ‘he is Ian John-Lewis’, ‘he is the Referee’”

John-Lewis, whose biography I AM THE REFEREE was published in 2014, is a man of few words, then briefly added;

“I’m pleased that the British & Irish Boxing Authority has given me the opportunity to continue to do what I do best…Referee.”

About the British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA)

Founded in April 2016, the British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) is a professional Boxing governing, licensing and sanctioning organisation that operates primarily, but not exclusively, in the United Kingdom.

The British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) are the indisputable industry leader, with regard to Health & Safety, within the professional boxing world.

BIBA became the first European Commission to become one hundred percent compliant with the American Federal act. “The Professional Boxing Safety Act 1996”

BIBA recruited leading head injury specialist and forensic scientist Professor Michael Graham to the BIBA Medical Committee.

BIBA became the first boxing commission world-wide to introduce the potentially life saving Infra-scanners at all events.

The British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) also believe that it is imperative that procedures are in place to assist boxers when they retire from competing.

As such BIBA have not only introduced a system of retraining retired boxers to be Officials and other roles such as Coaches etc to enable them to remain fully involved in the sport.

In addition BIBA appointed two eminent Sports Psychologists, Dr John Pates PhD; Mphil; BA (Jt Hons), PGCE, PDip and Professor Julian S Baker Ph.D, D.Sc, FPhysiol, FHBA, FRSB, FICR, C.Biol, C.Sci to the BIBA Medical Advisory Committee to assist the retired boxers as they make the transition from competing to a non-competitive roles within the sport.

www.boxbiba.com

Tagged : British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) / Ian John-Lewis

US Federal lawsuit filed against BoxRec, Daniel Kinahan, MTK and ABC

by adminApril 12, 2022April 12, 2022News

Boxers Brendon Denes and Ivana Habazin along with Habazin’s manager Charles Muniz and promoter Edward Mendy have filed a lawsuit for Injunctive Relief and for Damages against BoxRec, BoxRec Officers, Owners and Managers John Sheppard and Marina Sheppard, BoxRec Employee and Agent Sam Lu, the Association of Boxing Commissions, Round 10 Boxing, Dubai Boxing Commission, Round 10 Boxing and Dubai Boxing Commission Officer, Owner and Manager Ahmed Seddiqi, Round 10 Boxing and Dubai Boxing Commission Manager and Employee Jose Mohan, MTK Global, MTK Global Sponsor, Consultant and Controller Daniel Kinahan, and those unnamed defendants acting in concert with and/or conspiring with them.

This particular case – Download or view case files here – relates mainly to an event that took place at the Arabian Ranches Golf Club in Dubai in April 2021, and highlights that Boxrec are suppressing results submitted by numerous commissions around the world, something that Mike Mazzulli the President of the North American Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC) has known about for a long time, but constantly has failed to deal with.

Back in 2016 Gianluca Di Caro, Vice President of the British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) highlighted Boxrec’s suppression of results from a number of commissions, including BIBA, to Mr Mazzuli, following the appointment of Boxrec as joint Official Record Keeper for the ABC, along with long time Official Record Keeper Fight Fax.

Mr Di Caro, with assistance from former ABC President Tim Lueckenhof and International Boxing Federation (IBF) Rating Director Anibal Miramontes, compiled a dossier of cases of not just the suppression of results but also ‘doctoring’ of boxers records and clear cases of boxer endangerment, due to Boxrec’s failure to update boxers records or event results, which were submitted to Mr Mazzulli.

Mr Mazzulli sent an e.mail to both Boxrec and FightFax with the heading “Boxrec – details of record manipulation and failure to list events or update records.” In which he wrote; “In an effort to resolve this issue, all ABC Boxing Record Keepers will actively recognise and record all pro boxing contest for all commissions (including those in the United Kingdom) that are sent in by those Boxing Commissions that are recognised by the ABC”

Mr Mazzulli’s instructions were clear enough, yet Boxrec continued to ignore the ABC edict and continues to do so even today, as is clear by this latest case, yet the ABC took no further action against Boxrec.

Due to the lack of action by the ABC, Mr Di Caro submitted substantial case files to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) highlighting Boxrec’s inaccuracies and failures.

More recently Mr Di Caro highlighted the dangers of Boxrec’s action in an article published by British Boxing Scene Magazine – Link to British Boxing Scene article

In the article Mr Di Caro referred to an e.mail from another former ABC President, Mr Greg Sirb to Mr Mazzulli in which he stated “I have become increasingly frustrated by the way Boxrec (Marina) has single handedly decided what fight results shall be included in the ABC database. Boxrec like Fight Fax is a record Keeper, that is it, they are not a commission, Boxrec does not decide what is a good result and what is not, the fact is that if a boxing result comes in from a commission (anywhere in the World) that result must be posted.”

Yet even after receiving that e.mail, no action has been taken by the ABC to ensure Boxrec complied to Mr Mazzulli’s edict that Boxrec must actively recognise and record all pro boxing contest for all commissions (including those in the United Kingdom).

The current case also highlights the direct involvement of Daniel Kinahan, who is a known leader of an organised crime syndicate that the US Government placed a $5Million reward for information that leads to the arrest of Mr Kinahan and other high ranking leaders of the cartel – Link to Sky News article

Mr Kinahan recently received vocal support from Mauricio Suilaimán, President of the World Boxing Council (WBC) – Link to Sunday World article – at a time when the US Ambassador for Ireland Claire Cronin called for the Boxing World to cut ties with the gang boss – Link to AP article on Yahoo

The case submitted to US Courts will have significant affect on a number of British Boxers, who are signed to and receive financial support from Mr Kinahan and/or MTK, as well as the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) who license MTK promoter Lee Eaton as well as sanction MTK events in the United Kingdom, despite being fully aware of that the financing of these events is from the proceeds of serious crime.

Robert Smith, the general secretary for the British Boxing Board of Control, stated last year there is nothing the BBBofC can do to prevent the continued involvement of Daniel Kinahan in the sport, as he is not licensed by them. – Link to article in the G uardian

The effect this case could have on the boxing world is far reaching, one that is likely to not only highlight the corruption that is rife in the sport but also affect some of the UK’s top boxing stars, those whose careers have benefitted greatly by them receiving ‘dirty’ money from Kinahan or MTK.

Tagged : Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC) / Boxrec / Brandon Denes / British & Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) / Charles Muniz / Daniel Kinahan / Edward Mendy / Gianluca Di Caro / Ivana Habazin / MTK

MASOUD SHINES IN DUBAI STOPS BOYEUX IN TWO

by adminMarch 18, 2022March 18, 2022News

Britain’s fast-rising super-bantamweight star Shabaz Masoud delivered a statement of intent by stopping Yoann Boyeux in Dubai.

The ‘Maverick’ dazzled at Probellum Evolution and bamboozled his hugely experienced French rival, forcing him to quit at the end of the second of 10 scheduled rounds.

Masoud moves to 10-0 with this career-best win and said he wanted to leave his mark on the big stage in the Middle East.

“I came out for the first bell and I was looking for the stoppage – I wanted to make a bit of a statement,”said Masoud, who hails from Stoke-on-Trent.

“I’m ready for step-ups in class now, I’ve been saying that for a long time. I know what I am capable of and my team and my family know what I am capable of.”

Earlier on the stacked card, Bakhodir Jalolov took less than five rounds to cement his status as a future heavyweight champion with a brutal beatdown of Kamil Sokolowski.

The 6’7” Olympic gold medallist scored a knockdown in round two with a cuffing shot that Sokolowski brushed off but the Big Uzbek was repeatedly hurting his Polish opponent with backhands to the body.

At the beginning of round five, Jalolov made a telling breakthrough when his lethal left hand dropped Sokolowski just seconds after the bell.

Further punishment was dished out by a menacing Jalolov and Sokolowski fell to the canvas once more under a barrage of clubbing shots, prompting the referee to step in and bring a halt to the contest at 1:17 of the round five.

“I’m ready to compete with the best in the heavyweight division and I am coming for all of the belts, and I know my time is coming,” Jalolov said after the fight, as he moved to 10-0 as a professional, with as many knockouts.

Jalolov is being primed for a big fight in the United States this summer as he builds towards a shot at the heavyweight crown.

Poland’s Eryk Apresyan opened Probellum Evolution with victory over Burak Akkus, dropping his rival with a body shot.

Sultan Al Nuaimi was next in action at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium, and the home fighter out-pointed Tanzania’s Hamza Mchanjo over six rounds.

Tom Hill of the United Kingdom was given the nod by all three ringside judges in his bout with Ireland’s Rohan Date.

Hill, who moves to 10-2 as a professional, dropped his opponent in the sixth round and took the contest 77-75, 77-75 and 76-75.

Joshua Ridgewell dominated a blood-stained super-featherweight contest with India’s Suraj Ram.
Ridgewell, from Essex in England, was in control from the off and moved to 2-0 as a professional when the referee stopped the fight in round three due to a nasty cut above Ram’s right eye.

“After that, I’m very happy,” buzzed Ridgewell.

“I landed some really nice shot and stopped everything he was trying to do.”

Tagged : Shabaz Masoud / Yoann Boyeux

BENN MEETS VAN HEERDEN ON APRIL 16

by adminMarch 9, 2022March 9, 2022Championship News / News

‘The Destroyer’ takes on ‘The Heat’ in Manchester

Conor Benn will defend his WBA Continental Welterweight Title against South Africa’s Chris Van Heerden at the AO Arena in Manchester on Saturday April 16, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding New Zealand and Australia).

‘The Destroyer’ (20-0, 13 KOs) secured a stunning knockout win over former World Champion Chris Algieri last time out in December, taking out the American with a brutal right hand in the fourth round of their top of the bill clash at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool.

The 25-year-old contender from Essex holds top ten rankings with the WBA, WBO and IBF after notching three wins during a breakout 2021 – and the British star believes that 2022 will be an even bigger year for him as he works towards a World Title shot.

‘The Heat’ (28-2-1, 12 KOs), born in Johannesburg, South Africa, previously held the IBO Welterweight World Title from 2011 until 2013, beating Kaizer Mabuza, Sebastian Andres Lujan and Matthew Hatton during his Title reign.

Now residing in Santa Monica, California, USA the 34-year-old southpaw is eager to test himself against one of the fastest rising Welterweights in world boxing and should provide valuable rounds having only been stopped once by Errol Spence in 32 fights.

A huge undercard sees Bournemouth’s European Cruiserweight Champion Chris Billam-Smith (14-1, 10 KOs) rematch Belfast’s former champion Tommy McCarthy (18-3, 9 KOs) following their epic back and forth battle at the Matchroom HQ last summer.

‘The Gentleman’ withstood a late fightback from McCarthy as he edged out a narrow split points decision to add the British and European Cruiserweight Titles to his Commonwealth Title, before defending his EBU crown with a points win over Dylan Bregeon in Sheffield.

Manchester Super-Featherweight contender Zelfa Barrett (27-1, 16 KOs) looks to build on his impressive IBF World Title Eliminator win over Australia’s Bruno Tarimo on the Parker vs. Chisora 2 undercard when he challenges European Champion Faroukh Kourbanov (19-3, 3 KOs) – a former opponent of Joe Cordina.

Hard hitting Cruiserweight talent Jordan Thompson (12-0, 10 KOs) has scored two big first round knockouts since putting pen to paper on a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn last June, and the 28-year-old from Manchester will be out to impress his home fans again as he works towards his first Title shot in 2022.

Hyde Lightweight prospect Campbell Hatton (6-0, 2 KOs) quickly returns to action after earning the best win of his career over Joe Ducker last month, Little Lever’s Jack Cullen (20-3-1, 9 KOs) aims to bounce back from his stoppage loss to Kevin Lele Sadjo in December and Alnwick Welterweight Cyrus Pattinson (3-0, 1 KO) hopes to make it two wins from two fights in 2022.

“I’m excited to step into the ring with Chris Van Heerden,” said Benn. “Van Heerden is a tough operator and a southpaw who will be in there giving it his all in every round. For me and my team it’s now about fighting every style that we can face as we continue to head towards World Championship status and Van Heerden brings something different to the table than I’ve not faced before.

“With that being said this is another stepping stone for me on my journey to the top, I haven’t seen anything in Van Heerden’s previous fights that I can’t deal with, and I expect another explosive victory on April 16. If he comes to fight or he wants to box, I can deliver that smoke either way! The AO Arena has to be one of the most exciting venues to fight in. I love Manchester. I get shown a lot of love and support up in Manchester – it’s a fighting city. I bring the entertainment every time I fight and I can’t wait for April 16.”

“Sometimes it takes 10 years for that one year to come around that completely changes your life,” said Van Heerden. “This is my year. I want to thank Conor Benn for taking the fight, knowing that I’m coming to beat him in his backyard. I also want to thank Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing for taking this risk and my manager Peter Kahn for getting this fight done. I am looking forward to putting on a show in Manchester on DAZN.”

“Conor Benn is fast becoming one of the biggest stars in British Boxing and he faces by far the toughest test of his career to date when he takes on Chris Van Heerden in Manchester on April 16,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Van Heerden has mixed at the very highest level and faced fearsome Welterweight ‘Boots’ Ennis last time out before the fight was ruled a no contest due to a clash of heads – he always comes to fight, and I expect a gruelling battle for Conor. We are building an action-packed card and already announce the rematch of one of the Fight of the Year contender between Chris Billam-Smith and Tommy McCarthy and local star Zelfa Barrett challenges for the European Title. I expect another blistering statement from Conor Benn live worldwide on DAZN.”

“We are excited to welcome back one of the brightest prospects in boxing, Conor Benn, to the platform when he takes on former IBO Welterweight Champion Chris Van Heerden on April 16,” said Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN. “This is another huge test for Conor as he continues his quest to capture a World Title in 2022. We pride ourselves in having the best schedule in boxing, and with the announce of this matchup in April and early May you will see Canelo Alvarez, Ryan Garcia, GGG, Taylor vs. Serrano and Conor all fighting live on DAZN.”

Tickets are priced £40, £60, £100, £150 and £300 (VIP).

FightPass tickets will be available to purchase for Matchroom Boxing FightPass members from midday on Thursday March 10 via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com)

General Sale tickets will be available to purchase from midday on Friday March 11 via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) and the AO Arena (www.ao-arena.com).

Tagged : Chris Van Heerden / Conor Benn

British Boxing Scene

Category: News