| 16:30 GMT LIVE ON BEFORE THE BELL 6 x 2 mins International Lightweight contest RHIANNON DIXON 135.8 lbs v VAIDA MASIOKAITE 137.8 lbs (Wigan, England) (Panevezys, Lithuania) followed by 6 x 3 mins International Cruiserweight contest JORDAN THOMPSON 199.8lbs v PIOTR BUDZISZEWSKI 200lbs (Manchester, England) (Warsaw, Poland) followed by 8 x 2 mins International Super-Lightweight contest SANDY RYAN 143lbs v MARIA SOLEDAD CAPRIOLO 143lbs (Derby, England) (Villa Carlos Paz, Argentina) followed by 18:00 GMT LIVE ON DAZN 4 x 3 mins International Cruiserweight contest DAVID NYIKA 199.3lbs v ANTHONY CARPIN 203lbs (Hamilton, New Zealand) (Argenteuil, France) followed by 8 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest ALEN BABIC 216lbs v DAVID SPILMONT 252lbs (Zagreb, Croatia) (Saint-Michel, France) followed by 12 x 3 mins IBO Super-Middleweight World Title CARLOS CONGORA 168lbs v LERRONE RICHARDS 167.2lbs (Esmeraldas, Ecuador) (New Malden, England) followed by 12 x 3 mins IBF Super-Featherweight World Title Eliminator ZELFA BARRETT 129.8lbs v BRUNO TARIMO 128.8lbs (Manchester, England) (Southport, Australia) followed by 12 x 3 mins vacant European Super-Middleweight Title JACK CULLEN 167.8lbs v KEVIN LELESADJO 167.8lbs (Little Lever, England) (Saint-Maur, France) followed by 12 x 3 mins WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title JOSEPH PARKER 251lbs v DEREK CHISORA 248.8lbs (Auckland, New Zealand) (Finchley, England) |
Tag: Joseph Parker
PARKER VS. CHISORA 2 PLUS UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
| Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman: “Thank you to everyone in attendance today here in Manchester ahead of a huge night of boxing this Saturday, live and exclusively on DAZN all around the world from the Manchester Arena. “A huge crowd is expected as we wrap up what has been a sensational year against all odds. Tomorrow night we have our 43rd show of the year in Uzbekistan, Saturday night we have our 44th show of the year in Manchester and I think it’s one of the best shows we’ve put on so far this year. “Of course, the main event a Heavyweight blockbuster, the rematch between Joseph Parker and Derek Chisora. One of four brilliant 50/50 championship fights on this card, littered with great young talent and fighters emerging on the World Championship stage.” David Higgins, Founder and Director of Duco Events: “It’s a pandemic and a crazy world. The fact Matchroom are still making events happen is fantastic. It’s a risky business, I think sometimes in boxing it’s fashionable to hate successful people, but I think everyone in the sport should be grateful Matchroom are keeping these shows going and providing the opportunities. “We’re grateful for sure, and to Derek Chisora for always bringing a fight. Someone asked me today saying he’s going to come swinging trying to take Joseph’s head off does that worry you. I said no it doesn’t I’m sure we’ve prepared for that, but I’ve seen Joseph sometimes at his best in those types of situations. I’m sure Joseph is going to be cool and stick to the plan but if Derek wants to swing Joseph is ready for that too.” Joseph Parker: “It’s great to be back in Manchester with the team. We’ve had a tremendous camp; this fight will be different from the first for sure. “Not having a crowd made a big difference, I think Derek feeds off the crowd, I feed off of them too. A lot of fighters feed off the crowd and just having no noise and hearing specific voices it’s pretty weird. “The World Title, my eyes are just purely on this weekend and Derek Chisora. I want to probably knock him out between round six and ten.” Andy Lee, trainer of Joseph Parker: “I know how much Chisora would have improved with Dave because when I won the World Title, in my corner assisting Adam Booth was Dave Coldwell – I know all about him. I know how he will help Chisora improve. “After the first fight when the bell rang, I thought they were going to give the decision to Derek Chisora, I said it to him in the ring. We got the decision and when I watched it back, I thought Joe won the fight. We won’t be negative, Joe’s going to be a lot more positive, he’ll stand a lot more, fight a lot more and be more consistent with his attack. It should make for an excellent fight. “If anything, the crowd in there will be a benefit to Chisora more than Parker because he’ll feed of that and the energy, he’s a big favourite. He’s now the hero, people love him and his fight style, he’s given us great fights over the years. We’re here to do business, when Joseph gets in the ring, he’ll be different in terms of the spite he has, mentally and physically.” Derek Chisora: Chose not to speak. Dave Coldwell, trainer of Derek Chisora: “I think as a fighter gets more experience under their belt, they get wiser and realise certain mistakes that they made earlier on in their career they can’t afford to make as they go on. They just learn and get smarter. “Derek when he linked up with David Haye, changed the way he lived nutrition-wise, looking after his body and keeping it maintained even between fights. Even though he’s getting older, that takes it’s time to really bed in and with consistency you get better results in how you perform. “Right now, Derek is performing really well, I’m happy with the work he’s done in the gym, his commitment, his sparring sessions have been great. He’s in a good place and you’ll see on Saturday. “I don’t expect it to go the distance. I think Parker’s link up with Andy Lee, he’s a very smart man when it comes to boxing, he’s worked with two of the best in business and to sprinkle a bit of Andy Lee’s knowledge in there you’re going to get results. I’m expecting a better, more aggressive and positive Joseph Parker, but in the same vein I’m seeing a better Derek Chisora. “People have underestimated what a difference having a crowd makes to these guys, Derek loves the crowds singing his name and getting behind him. Certain fighters it doesn’t affect, your cool calculated boxing skillsters who’ll think their way through everything. Fighters like Derek and Joseph, they get that vibe, and it adds an extra few per cent. When you’re talking about performance levels in these kinds of fights, those little per cents add up.” Jack Cullen: “I’ve sold near enough 1,000 tickets, and I’ve promised everyone I’m winning the European Title, that’s my early Christmas present. I’m taking it with both hands and I’m going for it, I’ve had the European Title in my head for a long while and come 18th December it’ll be a victory and a dream come true. “You win a European Title and you’re right up there in all the rankings, anything can happen after this. I’ve just got to get past Sadjo on the 18thand we’re ready for next year. “I’ve just got to stick to my game plan, if I stick to it then it should be a good night for me.” Kevin Lele Sadjo: “I did accept the challenge very quickly and thanks for the invitation. I am in form, my camp has had me training ready for a fight, when the opportunity arises to feature on a Chisora card it’s something you can’t miss. Without even watching Jack Cullen we were ready to sign up quickly and I’m hoping to return to France with the European Title. “It’s funny you should choose the word war; the war is not in the crowd but in the ring. The war is where I position myself as a boxer, it’s not just the crowd for Jack Cullen, my crowd is watching me at home on DAZN. I think it’s going to be a superb encounter and the war is all about heart and I’ve brought my heart.” Zelfa Barrett: “Bruno Tarimo, I’ve studied him, watched him, I know he’s a solid fighter. He throws the kitchen sink and has a bit of brains about him, but this is my World Title fight. I’m not thinking about anything else, he’s my target and I respect him and the struggles he’s had. This is boxing, it doesn’t matter where you’re from or what you’ve done, it’s all about what happens in the ring. I’m excited and more than ready for this. “I’m doing this for my mum, it’s been a hard year but tough times, tough people. This is boxing and I can express how I feel in the ring, come Saturday night I’ll be victorious.” Bruno Tarimo: “Firstly, I want to thank God for bringing me here safe, this is my first time in Manchester for a big show. Thanks to Matchroom for bringing me onto the show, I appreciate it. Thanks for the support of my team in Australia and Tanzania – for my country. “I come from nothing, I can fight Super-Bantam but I have opportunity in Australia, it helps me but it doesn’t have the small weight. I have to take the big fight with big people to be World Champion and help my family. “Zelfa Barrett is a good fighter, he’s smart and my team and I back in Australia were watching him. Every fighter is different, all the fighters in Australia know and support me, it’s going to be a good show on Saturday night.” Lerrone Richards: “This is a world level fight, a real-world level fight, a fight that I relish, and I know I can win – win in great fashion. “The winner of this fight, which will be me, can push on to world level. I’m excited about this fight, it’s an opportunity for me to showcase my skills at the higher level and shut the doubters up. Once I win this fight, the future is bright.” David Nyika: “I feel very lucky to be here, thank you for having me on the card. I have the opportunity now to let people know who David Nyika is, I’m here to stay in the UK and ready to make my mark. I feel totally blessed to be part of such a big camp. “I didn’t come away with a gold medal, so I technically didn’t achieve my ultimate dream of getting a gold. Onwards and upwards, this is an opportunity for me to make a living and continue down a path that I’ve dreamed of as a kid.” Sandy Ryan: “We’re also looking to make a statement, my trainer Clifton Mitchell is holding me back a little bit, he wants me to start strong, sharp and box. When we see an opening, we’re going to take her out. “Don’t worry, the knockout is going to happen, we’re going to show a little boxing first. It isn’t going eight rounds.” Jordan Thompson: “It’s a pleasure to be back out, especially in my hometown, I’m looking to go out there and put on another explosive performance. Like I always say, artistic violence, that’s one thing you can expect with me. “The Cruiserweight scene domestically is buzzing right now; I definitely see myself getting amongst that and coming out top of the crop. Like I said, I’ve got an amazing team in place, I’m looking forward to what next year brings. Definitely titles on the horizon no doubt about it.” Cyrus Pattinson: “I think activity is one of the most important things to be out on a regular basis. I know I’ve got a durable opponent for the weekend; he’s been with some of the domestic fighters I’ve been fighting for British and European Titles so I’m looking to make a statement on Saturday and do things other Welterweights haven’t been able to do.” Rhiannon Dixon: “It was a bit frustrating hearing my opponent potentially pulled out again and all the mix up of this week. I’m just excited to get there on Saturday. I’m just looking to make my mark on 2022 and I just can’t wait for it.” Alen Babic: “Two weeks ago, you [Eddie] slid into my DM’s and asked if I wanted to fight, I said yeah let’s go. People have routine victories, I have routine knockouts, I think Saturday is going to be another routine knockout. I’m going to operate like John Wick. “I like this, I like this living. I give it all to boxing and for the next five to six years I just want to box – I don’t want to do anything else. “Let’s go, like I said I have a brilliant team, we are going for the Bridgerweight Title. I’m really into it and let’s go, I’m going to give my whole life to it and I’m sure we’re going to get it.” |
I’M BRINGING THE PAIN! SAYS CHISORA
| Del Boy questions Parker’s decision to take rematch |
| Derek Chisora has promised to exact revenge on Joseph Parker when they rematch for the WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title at the AO Arena in Manchester this Saturday December 18, live worldwide on DAZN (with the exception of New Zealand and Samoa). Chisora (32-11, 23 KOs) was left angered by what he felt was more rough treatment by boxing judges following his split decision points loss to former WBO World Champion Parker earlier this year – the eleventh loss of his illustrious 43-fight career in boxing’s glamour division. The 37-year-old knocked Parker down inside 10 seconds of their first meeting and applied plenty of pressure and punishing body shots during a busy first half of the fight, but it wasn’t enough as the New Zealand star responded well in the second half of the fight, sealing a close win with two cards of 116-111 and 115-113. Fed up go being on the wrong end of what he believes to be harsh decisions against him, ‘WAR’ Chisora insists he will take this weekend’s highly anticipated clash out of the judges’ hands by delivering an emphatic knockout win to end the year with a bang. “I don’t think that they wanted to give me the rematch really,” said Chisora. “And if I was him, I wouldn’t take the rematch, I would have moved on – but I was 100 per cent sure that I wanted the fight. Different judges score fights in different ways. What are we scoring now? For the pressure fighter and making the fight happen? Because if I don’t go forward, we can just stand there and look at each other. “I caught him off-balance maybe because it wasn’t a powerful knockdown and when he got up he was fine. He’s got good hands. You can tell he’s bulked up a bit, he’s packed more strength on since the first fight so you can see he’s coming with more power punches. “If you look at his record from when he won the WBO title, he boxed Andy Ruiz in his hometown and he didn’t KO him, he played it safe, he defended it here against Hughie Fury and played it safe and then he boxed AJ and he froze and played it safe. So, you can tell a fighter, the guys that really want to fight, he might tell himself he wants to fight but really and truly, he doesn’t want to be there. “It’s been two years since I’ve boxed in front of a crowd, it’s going to be amazing, and I hope I don’t freeze! I enjoy it, how could you not? I think if you sell thousands of tickets, you enjoy it. AJ, Canelo, Dillian, me – we all sell out arenas and we love it. You know people are coming to watch you fight and you want to give them a good night. It’s a show, you must give them a show from the walkout to the last bell. “I don’t cry over spilt milk, I never have. I don’t moan, I move on. Everyone’s plan is to take it out of the judges’ hands, I am just going to go in and put on a great fight. I love Manchester – Manchester always comes out. I’m bringing the pain; it’s going to be sick. I just want to give the fans what they want, and they want to see war. Joseph is going to try to ride the storm early, and come on in the second half, but there is nowhere to hide.” Parker vs. Chisora 2 tops a huge night of action in Manchester, ‘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 Kevin Lele Sadjo (16-0, 14 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 an Eliminator for the IBF World Title, 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), Croatian Heavyweight knockout artist Alen ‘The Savage’ Babic (9-0, 9 KOs) looks to make it ten knockouts from ten fights, New Zealand Cruiserweight David Nyika (1-0, 1 KO) fights in the UK for the first time against Anthony Carpin (5-6-2, 2 KOs), Derby Super-Lightweight prospect Sandy Ryan (2-0, 1 KO) is out to impress against Maria Soledad Caprialo (7-13-4) after her vicious body shot knockout win over Aleksandra Vujovic in Italy, unbeaten Cruiserweight Jordan ‘Troublesome’ Thompson (11-0, 9 KOs) meets Clement Oppenot (5-1, 3 KOs) over six rounds, former Team GB standout Cyrus Pattinson (2-0, 1 KO) takes on Evgenii Vazem (9-21, 4 KOs) over six rounds at Welterweight and Anthony Crolla-trained Lightweight Rhiannon Dixon (3-0) fights Paola Pamela Benavidez (8-5-3) over six rounds. Limited remaining tickets are available to purchase via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) |
I NEED TO TAKE CARE OF BUSINESS SAYS PARKER
| Kiwi star vows to beat Chisora more convincingly in huge rematch |
| Joseph Parker says his “career is on the line” when he meets British veteran Derek Chisora for a second time at the AO Arena in Manchester this Saturday December 18, live worldwide on DAZN (with the exception of New Zealand and Samoa). The New Zealand star (29-2, 21 KOs) overcame a first-round knockdown to edge past former World Title challenger Chisora last time out at the same venue back in May via a hard-fought split decision in his first fight with former WBO Middleweight king Andy Lee. Ranked at No.2 in the world with the WBO, former World Champion Parker heads into this weekend’s huge rematch knowing that a loss to Chisora would prove to be disastrous in his pursuit of becoming a two-time Heavyweight ruler. “The first fight wasn’t the longest camp together with Andy, we were just getting to know each other and getting ready for the fight,” said Parker. “A longer camp is more beneficial as I am understanding more what Andy is trying to teach me. We’ve worked so hard every day and I think that it’s really going to show on the night. “Andy and I have been working on a lot of things in camp and the goal is to go in there and look better, and win but win well. I can say that I am going to be more dominant, more aggressive, and that sort of stuff, but I just want to go out there and fight and I will let my actions do the talking for me. “I want the best Derek Chisora. I got a hard pressure fighter in the first fight with Derek and I think that he’ll be looking to make little adjustments to improve, so I am looking forward to what he’s going to bring. As long as I do what I can do it’s not going to go the distance, but I know he feels the same way. There’s no issues for me in the build up with a great camp and injury free. “I like Derek and respect him, but this is not the time to be friends before the fight. I need to take care of business because my career is on the line here. He’s achieved a lot and I respect him, but that can wait until after the fight. “I think the result was right. I did enough to win, it wasn’t the most dominant or best performance, it was a close fight but I believe I won it and it’s good to be able to run it back and to show the improvements I’ve made with Andy. It’s the first rematch of my career so I am excited for that and I just want to go out and fight hard, beat him up and put on a better performance and win in better fashion.” Parker vs. Chisora 2 tops a huge night of action in Manchester, ‘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 Kevin Lele Sadjo (16-0, 14 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 an Eliminator for the IBF World Title, 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), Croatian Heavyweight knockout artist Alen ‘The Savage’ Babic (9-0, 9 KOs) looks to make it ten knockouts from ten fights, New Zealand Cruiserweight David Nyika (1-0, 1 KO) fights in the UK for the first time against Anthony Carpin (5-6-2, 2 KOs), Derby Super-Lightweight prospect Sandy Ryan (2-0, 1 KO) is out to impress against Maria Soledad Caprialo (7-13-4) after her vicious body shot knockout win over Aleksandra Vujovic in Italy, unbeaten Cruiserweight Jordan ‘Troublesome’ Thompson (11-0, 9 KOs) meets Clement Oppenot (5-1, 3 KOs) over six rounds, former Team GB standout Cyrus Pattinson (2-0, 1 KO) takes on Evgenii Vazem (9-21, 4 KOs) over six rounds at Welterweight and Anthony Crolla-trained Lightweight Rhiannon Dixon (3-0) fights Paola Pamela Benavidez (8-5-3) over six rounds. Limited remaining tickets are available to purchase via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) |
PARKER VS. CHISORA 2 + UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
| Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman: “This is a huge night of boxing in Manchester on December 18 and the wonderful Manchester Arena. Of course, the main event everyone talks about, last time a real close-run fight between Joseph Parker and Derek Chisora, they do it all again – this time in front of fans. “What a card we have for you to close out the year, live and exclusively on DAZN. We are having ten shows in the next seven weeks in six different countries, of course we’re here to talk about a tremendous card on December 18. “Some of the undercard are in huge fights, career defining fights, and of course in the COVID world we live in today a lot of their opponents staying in their own country to prepare to fly over shortly for their challenge. “We managed to get this fight on again, thanks to both guys for accepting the rematch for this fight. Last time out this was one fight I was so disappointed was behind closed doors. Derek Chisora is a guy who thrives on the big arenas and atmospheres, you’ve seen Joseph Parker box at Millennium Stadium in front of 70,000, against Dillian Whyte in front of 20,000 at The O2. “We cannot wait to see the fans back in Manchester Arena for not just a great card but a really good Heavyweight fight.” Joseph Parker – Auckland, New Zealand – 29-2, 21 KOs – defending his WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title against Derek Chisora: “It’s great to be back here in the UK, Andy Lee the coach, the main man, and Johnny Ward and the rest of the team back in Morecombe. I’m excited because it’s the first rematch in my career, I’m excited to start seeing the improvements I’ve been making in camp when I’ve been away in New Zealand and the things that Andy and I have been working on. “We didn’t have the longest camp last time but we’ve had a longer camp this time so there are no excuses. I did watch the fight back and I thought I won so I’m not sure, he thought he won too so that’s why we’re here again. “Derek is one tough guy, he comes forward and puts on the pressure, like he said bite the gumshield and throw the kitchen sink, that’s exactly what he did and what he’s going to do for the next fight. I feel like this fight is going to different, I’ve had a lot more time to work on things that Andy has suggested I work on and now that I’m here with him in camp my confidence is growing every day seeing the improvements. “I feel like this is the place to be you know, I have this fight with Derek in front of me and there are a lot more fights out there that can be made. We have to make these sacrifices as fighters, I know a lot of fighters that make sacrifices, I’m away from my wife and family, my parents, I feel like it’s my time to make it count. “That’s my goal, to become two-time World Champion, I’m well positioned at the moment with the rankings but with COVID its hard lock in fights so thanks to everyone for getting this made and Chisora for accepting it again. It’s good to out three times this year and you’ve just got to take the opportunities when they come. “I feel like I’ll finish this fight within the distance, I’ve got a good feeling.” Andy Lee, trainer of Joseph Parker: “We only had five weeks last time, it just wasn’t enough time to affect any change or embed any habits or instincts we were trying to work on. In saying that, Derek only had the same time with Buddy McGirt. This time Joseph has a greater understanding of what we’re trying to do, it’s as much about the mindset as it is about the technical side. “It will be a good fight, I’ve seen a change in Joseph from the last fight and compared to the work we’ve done in between, he’s definitely focused. I think Joseph sees an opportunity for himself, the way the Heavyweight division is now, Joe fully believes when he gets past Chisora, he’s right there with any of them. I have no qualms with putting him in with anybody. “He’ll never fight Tyson Fury because they’re as close to brothers, but anybody else in that division I’d be very comfortable with putting Joseph in with them. These young fighters here in front of me, I’m a big fan of all of them, I’m looking forward to the fight and for Joe to show exactly what he can do. “Having David in the opposite corner brings a bit of trepidation to me, Dave was in my corner for 2/3 of the biggest fights of my career. I know what he brings, the knowledge he has, when you’re someone like Chisora small adjustments can make a big change. “That’s probably what they’ll be looking to do. Chisora isn’t going to come out and box, jab and move, he’s going to come forward and bring the fight. Small adjustments will make a big change, so we have to be ready for that. That’s what we’re preparing to do, Joe’s working extremely hard and we’re well ahead of schedule, I’m very happy.” Derek Chisora – Finchley, London – 32-11, 23 KO’s – challenging Joseph Parker for the WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title: “Two fights behind closed doors, Usyk and Parker, Manchester again. I’m half excited and half not, I’m happy for the fight but I might be disappointed with what comes with the fight to be honest with you. I’m going to speak to my management team at 258 that we get an American referee and good judges for this fight because so many times I’ve been robbed, in Helsinki, the first one here with Dillian – it gets a bit frustrating. “I’m happy the rematch is on, I’m excited and I’ve got David Coldwell now with me. Right now, I’m not buzzing yet, but I want to say this honestly to the press and to you Eddie, I need you to get a good referee, an American referee, not a BBBofC referee because those guys in the past have messed me around. If Robert Smith is listening, I do not want your referee to ref me for this fight. “I know for a fact come 18 December; we are going to war. Joseph Parker doesn’t scare me; he hasn’t got anything that I’m scared of. He hasn’t power punches, I don’t know how they gave him the last fight to be honest with you, I’m just disappointed they gave it to him. “I 100% won the first fight, I was the more pressure fighter, I was making the fight happen – all he wanted to do was hold. The whole Kronk style of holding and resting on you, that’s what they do – it’s good for them. “The name of the game ladies and gentlemen is boxing, bite your gumshield and chuck the leather. There isn’t any point of trying to tip-toe boxing, it doesn’t work, bite the gumshield and chuck the kitchen sink – that’s the name of the game for me. We are coming to war, that’s why people love watching me, we’re coming to fight. I’ve never been in boxing my life; we’re coming to fight. “I was saying this morning in the gym, boxing life is short, and you have to grab with both hands the ups and downs, the wins and losses, you have to enjoy it while you’re doing it. You don’t want to have any regrets when you hang up your gloves and say why didn’t I train harder for this fight. “I love it, I enjoy training and waking up – on the M1 coming to Sheffield every Sunday. I love going back to my family, I love coming back seeing Dave and staying in a hotel. I love it and it’s the same as my opponent, he leaves his family and comes to Europe to train when he’s so far away from his wife and kids. This time we have is not long, so I always tell myself thank god for everything I have today waking up every morning, loving this game we have – boxing.” Dave Coldwell, trainer of Derek Chisora: “The thing about Derek is, he loves this sport and loves fighting. But what gets him going is real fights, he’s not one of these fighters that when he gets to a certain level, he just wants to cash out against mediocre opposition that he believes he’s going to beat easily. He wants to test himself, and if you look at his resume and the fighters he’s fought, that shows and what gets him going. “The Joseph Parker fight is a fight that since the first one that’s all he’s spoke about. The first one was a very good fight, it was close, regardless of who you thought won it makes no difference, Joseph Parker won the fight. Derek’s going in there to reverse the result and put on a performance. “He’s [Chisora] working so hard, not just hard but smart. He’s a real pleasure to coach, people think he must be so hard to work with, he’s not, this time around he’s working with the younger guys in the gym – he’s a great inspiration to them. The difference with Derek this time around is he trains, he foes his work, then he stays behind and watch the sparring with the other guys. “He’s almost enjoying being around the environment a little bit more, he seems happier and like I said the work is brilliant. I can’t knock what he’s doing right now and we’re still weeks away from the fight. I’m quite excited to see Derek put it together on fight night, we understand it’s going to be a hard fight. “I’ve got all the respect in the world for Andy Lee, he’s such an intelligent man, he knows everything about this sport. All his fighters are dangerous, good fighters, and I expect because he’s had more time with Parker this time around I expect a better version of him, but I expect a better version of Derek, this is going to be a great fight.” Lerrone Richards – New Malden, England – 15-0, 3 KOs – challenging Carlos Gongora for the IBO Super-Middleweight World Title: “I’m very excited for this fight, I can’t wait to showcase my skills and show everybody what I’m about once again. I’m very confident about this fight, you’re going to see more of Lerrone Richards with a little bit more spice, I can’t wait. “I was very adamant from when I started my professional career to box at every level, winning the British, Commonwealth, European Title and this is the next step. I can’t wait, I’m at this level, I believe my skills are beyond this level, it’s time for me to showcase this on December 18.” Jack Cullen – Little Lever, England – 20-2-1, 9 KOs – challenging Emre Cukur for the vacant European Super-Middleweight Title: “A European Title is every boxer’s dream; I’m going to go in there and get the job done. Little Lever, there was only 25 at fight camp, wait until there’s 1000 of them at Manchester Arena. It’s going to be amazing and I’m looking forward to, thanks for putting me on this card, it’s a brilliant card. “We had a game plan from day one when we found out we were fighting Yildirim – it worked. It’s all down to Michael and Dave my coaches, at the end of the day we’ll go again. We’ve watched this guy; we’ll get a game plan, and we’ll get him beat. “I think it’s going to be an easy fight, but we’ll see. Like you said, I’ve never been in an easy fight, I’m going to stick it on him anyway he’s having it the lad.” Zelfa Barrett – Manchester, England – 26-1, 16 KOs – fighting Bruno Tarimo in an Eliminator for the IBF Super-Featherweight World Title: “This is the kind of fight I need in Manchester; I’ve not boxed in front of a crowd in two years so I’m excited to just fight. I’ll put on a performance, Bruno is no pushover, he’s there to take me out, he’s rugged, he will give it. He’s made for me, you know he’s not going to stand there and box, he’s going to come to fight and give it his all, I’m ready for that. “This is what’s in my mind constantly, it’s on my doorstep, put on a great performance. Stevenson is awesome, you’ve got to give credit where it’s due, but the rest of the champions aren’t the strongest. These guys are beatable, I’m in my range to beat these guys so I just need to put on a performance, get the win. My focus is on Bruno December 18, I’m going to win and be looking good as well.” David Nyika – Hamilton, New Zealand – 1-0, 1 KO – fighting in a four-round Cruiserweight contest: “I feel very privileged to be here, I’m in the heart of professional boxing here so this is a massive opportunity for me. I’m looking to put myself on notice in the Cruiserweight division. “I think there’s a lot more to professional boxing than I initially thought, I feel like I’m rebuilding Rome starting to work with Andy Lee. I’m in great company with the likes of Joseph Parker, the Fury’s are in camp, I’m a sponge right now and this is a great opportunity for me to grow, learn and develop as a boxer – also as a person.” Jordan Thompson – Manchester, England – 11-0, 9 KOs – fighting in a six-round Cruiserweight contest: “It’s a pleasure to be able to get out and stay active, keep the momentum going. It was good to get the win in the style I did, making a little bit of an announcement on the scene, it felt like my debut again it’s been that long. I’m keen to keep going, keep the momentum going and put on a show in front of my home fans. Back in Manchester, my hometown, I’m looking forward to it. “At the end of the day, I will always be going for the knockout. I let my hands go with bad intentions, but there’s going to come a day where I need to get rounds in, I’m going to need to learn – I’m still learning on the job. I do need to get those rounds in but I’m sure they’ll come; timing is everything. We’ll go out there and aim to get another knockout December 18.” Sandy Ryan – Derby, England – 2-0, 1 KO – fighting in an eight-round Super-Lightweight contest: “I’m looking forward to it, to be on a great card, a big card like this. Let’s go and put on another big performance. “I know what level I’m at and I think I’ve showed in my first two fight. I boxed different in my first two fights and there’s more to come next year, get me some title fights Eddie. “I’ll be going into every fight meaning business. Hurtful business.” Rhiannon Dixon – Wigan, England – 3-0 – fighting in a four-round Lightweight contest: “I can’t wait, it was unfortunate what happened last time but it’s great to be on such amazing card. It’s the return back at the Manchester Arena and I’m just excited to show people what I can do. “Women’s boxing is just getting bigger and bigger and the more that people like myself and Sandy are on these shows and putting on amazing performances, we’re changing people’s opinions of women’s boxing. I’m just excited to where things are going and showing people what I can do on December 18.” |
DAZN and Matchroom announce more global additions to growing fall fight schedule
| DAZN and Matchroom have announced three premium fights nights to add to an ever-increasing fall fight schedule, live and worldwide on DAZN: Mikey GarciaOctober 16: Former four-weight world ruler Mikey Garcia returns to action against European Super-Lightweight Champion Sandor Martin at Chukchansi Park in Fresno, CA. October 30: WBC Interim Heavyweight World Champion Dillian Whyte faces Swedish fighter Otto Wallin, live from The O2 in London and worldwide on DAZN. December 18: Heavyweights Joseph Parker and Derek Chisora rematch in another epic clash at the AO Arena in Manchester, live worldwide on DAZN (except New Zealand and Samoa). First, four-weight king Mikey Garcia (40-1, 30 KOs) is back in action on Saturday October 16 at Chukchansi Park in Frenso, CA as he tackles European Super-Lightweight Champion Sandor Martin (38-2, 13 KOs). Garcia steps through the ropes for the first time since defeating Jessie Vargas in Frisco, TX in February 2020 and the California man welcomes Spaniard Martin to his home state, with Martin coming into the fight on the back of two successful defences of his European 140lbs strap. Garcia-Martin will be live worldwide on DAZN and tops a stacked card featuring World Title action and hot prospects to be announced shortly. Two weeks later, ‘The Body Snatcher’ Dillian Whyte (28-2, 19 KOs) returns to the ring on Saturday, October 30, at The O2 in London, facing off against Swedish Heavyweight Otto Wallin (21-1-0-1, 14 KOs). The Brixton native avenged his previous defeat with a statement round 4 TKO against veteran Alexander Povetkin and reclaimed the WBC Interim Heavyweight Title. Wallin continues his good form coming into the fight, having beaten Dominic Breazeale and Travis Kauffman after a unanimous decision loss against two-time World Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury. The event will be live worldwide on DAZN. And, on Saturday, December 18, Joseph Parker (29-2, 21 KOs) faces off against the mercurial Brit Derek Chisora (32-11, 23 KOs) in a rematch of their 12-round war in May 2021. Parker, the former WBO Heavyweight Champion, has tallied five straight wins since losing against Dillian Whyte for the WBO International Heavyweight Title. Derek ‘WAR’ Chisora is looking to bounce back after losing by split decision against Parker and by unanimous decision against Oleksandr Usyk in October 2020. The event will be live worldwide on DAZN (with the exception of New Zealand and Samoa). Full card details will be released soon. |
| Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN, commented: “These three excellent fights are a testament to the great partnership that continues to flourish with Matchroom globally. Our schedule for the rest of the year is shaping up nicely and filled with World Champions, grizzled veterans, and exciting up-and-coming talent. We look forward to continuing to unveil more blockbuster fight nights as part of our ongoing commitment to deliver value to boxing fans worldwide.” Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn said: “Matchroom and DAZN’s stacked upcoming schedule just got even better with these three blockbuster additions. First up on October 16 four-weight king Mikey Garcia returns to action in a difficult assignment against Barcelona’s European Super-Lightweight Champion Sandor Martin in Fresno, CA. ‘The Body Snatcher’ Dillian Whyte returns home to The O2 on October 30 to put his Interim WBC Heavyweight World Title against Otto Wallin – the man that came so close to inflicting a loss on Tyson Fury. Then on December 18 Joseph Parker and Derek Chisora go to war again at Manchester Arena. Catch it all live and exclusively around the world on DAZN.” Other major matchups this fall on DAZN include live boxing making its return to Italy on October 1 as local star Daniele Scardina continues his hunt for a World Title fight when he takes on Juergen Doberstein for the WBO Intercontinental Super-Middleweight Title in Milan. And, on October 9, the south of Liverpool takes on the north as Liam Smith faces off against fellow Liverpudlian Anthony Fowler in a hugely competitive domestic fight, live from the M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool. DAZN is available for £7.99 / €7.99 per month. Existing UK & Ireland subscribers will be moved to £7.99 / €7.99 pm from September 30th. This not only covers dozens of fight nights annually (subject to availability), including premium events from Matchroom UK, USA, Italy, and Spain as well as Golden Boy, plus The DAZN Boxing Show – the only daily boxing show and go-to boxing news source available to fight fanatics worldwide, including on-the-ground and behind-the-scenes coverage throughout AJ vs. Usyk fight week. There’s also a growing line-up of original programming such as Ronaldo: El Presidente, La Guerra Civil, Canelo: The Greatest Athlete You’ve Never Seen, Club Ibiza, as well as a new original series to be announced shortly. Full details are available on DAZN News. |
PARKER EDGES PAST CHISORA VIA SPLIT DECISION
| Results from Manchester |
| 12 x 3 mins vacant WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title DEREK CHISORA v JOSEPH PARKER WSD12 (115-113 Chisora, 116-111 Parker, 115-113 Parker) (Finchley, England) (Auckland, New Zealand) Joseph Parker overcame a first-round knockdown to defeat Derek Chisora by split decision following a brutal Heavyweight battle at the AO, Arena Manchester, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on DAZN in all markets excluding the UK, Ireland, China, New Zealand and Samoa. The New Zealander had a disastrous start, hitting the canvas in the opening seconds, and Parker showed grit along with his classy combinations to secure victory with tallies of 115-113 and 116-111, with Chisora receiving a score of 115-113. “I am feeling it,” Parker told Matchroom. “Derek landed a lot of shots on me. I’ll probably feel it more tomorrow. The plan was to come out and box smartly and stay focused. I got caught right at the beginning. I think it was round the back of the head, I didn’t see it. “The plan was to box and move and be smart. With the guidance of Andy I was able to box. We didn’t have the longest time together. I know I needed a lot of work. I need to keep learning from Andy and practicing the things we work on in the gym. “It was a tough fight and I got caught right at the beginning. I just had to dig deep and stay focused and follow the plan that we had in place. Swayed off a bit, but Derek is a very tough opponent. He came forward, put pressure on me from the beginning. Threw big bombs and landed a lot. “The boxing skills won me some rounds towards the end. It was a very close fight. I thought it could go either way, and I’m very thankful and blessed to get the win today. He brought the smoke. If you want to feel it, jump in the ring with him. “It’s very achievable [World Title fight]. I just have to get back to the training. There’s a lot of things I have to work on. I had a good plan in place. There’s still a lot I can show, I just have to keep working with Andy, and more camps ahead. We could do it next fight.” 10 x 2 mins Undisputed Lightweight World Titles KATIE TAYLOR WUD10 (96-94, 96-95, 96-95) v NATASHA JONAS (Bray, Ireland) (Liverpool, England) Katie Taylor retained her WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight World Titles after a unanimous decision victory over Natasha Jonas with scores of 96-94, 96-95 and 96-95. The Irish star shared another memorable meeting with Jonas, nine years after their London 2012 Olympic Games bout, as Taylor was forced to dig deep for the win. “Again, it was probably a bit too exciting for my liking,” Taylor told Matchroom. “It was definitely a toe to toe battle in there. I thought I was a bit flat early on, but I dug deep to win the championship rounds. I definitely showed the heart of a champion in there and that’s what won me the fight in the end. “She showed everything it takes to win a World Title in her last two performances. Tonight was a brilliant showcase for women’s boxing and boxing overall. Every time we fought as amateurs it was that type of fight as well. I’d prepared for a hard ten-round battle tonight and that’s exactly what it was. “Eddie was saying that fight would have brought the PPV sales up a small bit. That’s obviously a great start. I feel sorry for the main event coming out after that fight. It was a thrilling fight. I’m just delighted to come out of it with the belts and still undefeated. 18-0, onwards and upwards. This is what I’m in the sport for, I want to be involved in the biggest fights. There’s plenty of those fights out there for me.” 4 x 3 mins Lightweight contest CAMPBELL HATTON WPTS4 (40-36) v LEVI DUNN (Manchester, England) (Prestwich, England) Campbell Hatton sealed a shutout points victory over Levi Dunn as he made a winning debut in his hometown of Manchester.The 20-year-old was fighting at the scene of father Ricky’s World Title triumphs after a frantic debut in Gibraltar and he displayed more discipline, sealing a 40-36 verdict following four rounds.“I could tell during the whole build up that I’d be a lot better in this fight,” Hatton told Matchroom. “I’ve just been so much more relaxed. It’s night and day. I’ve not watched it back yet, but I think I did show a lot smarter boxing and a bit more composure. “There’s still room for improvement but I’m buzzing with it. I’ve not had probably 10% of what I had to do last time. I’m grateful for it. I think I was hurting him a bit more this time. In a spar, it isn’t about taking them out is it. He was doing a lot of holding. He’s a tough kid and he’s done the job that he was here to do. I think I would have got him out of there if there was a bit less holding. “My heroes have boxed here, so it’s a box ticked for me. It was weird walking down the ramp with no crowd. I can’t wait to do it again here when it’s packed. It’s not new to me now, I’ve got a bit more used to it. I’ll be straight back in the gym ready to go again. It’s all learning, and by keeping busy, I think I’ll be flying soon.” 10 x 3 mins Middleweight contest CHRIS EUBANK JR WUD10 (98-92, 98-92, 98-92) v MARCUS MORRISON (Brighton, England) (Hattersley, England) Chris Eubank Jr marked his return to Britain with a punishing points victory over Marcus Morrison to stay on course for a big name fight later this year. Eubank Jr ended a lengthy absence from the ring, hurting Morrison on a number of occasions before sealing victory with three scores of 98-92. The Brighton star had Morrison in trouble as early as the second round, but says he decided to let his opponent recover in order to gain valuable rounds. “My last fight lasted two rounds, so really it’s been two years since I had a twelve-round fight,” Eubank Jr told Matchroom. “There was definitely some ring rust, and there was definitely some getting back into the swing of things. I had him hurt bad in the second round. I backed off. I wanted him to recover so that I could be seen again. “I’m back on TV, I’m back fighting, this is my home. This is my life; this is what I do. I wanted to go the distance and get those rounds in. I’m happy with the performance. I followed instruction; he was telling me to do things in the corner and I went out there and did it. That’s kind of alien to me. Usually most of my career has been dependent on what I want to do, my instincts and my reaction. But now we have a head coach in Roy Jones Jr and I full trust him. I’m happy to be paired with him. “This is the beginning of a long and great journey for me. I want to be very active this year, I want to fight at least twice more. This is a good start. Full credit to Marcus. I’ve hit guys with shots like that and they’ve gone. He kept coming. A lot of respect for Marcus. There’s a lot of World Champions in the Middleweight division. There’s a lot of big names out there for me to go and fight. Golovkin is the end goal, and anyone with a World Title. I’m coming, they’re all on the radar.” 12 x 3 mins WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title DMITRY BIVOL WUD12 (118-110, 115-113, 115-114) v CRAIG RICHARDS (Saint Petersburg, Russia) (Crystal Palace, England) Dmitry Bivol retained his WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title via a unanimous decision despite a spirited performance from South Londoner Craig Richards. The unbeaten Russian is recognised as one of the finest fighters in the 175lbs division, but he was made to work for victory over ‘Spider’ Richards with scores of 118-110, 115-113, 115-114. “I’m not happy but I’m okay,” Bivol told Matchroom. “It was a long rest for me and I went into the ring after one and a half years. It’s fine. My opponent was a good fighter, really good. He’s smart and he thinks. He was thinking for the whole fight. “It’s okay. I was feeling that I’d won. I gave him a couple of rounds for recovery. I landed more clean punches. I respect him and I respected him before the fight. I think he can make problems for all fighters because of his style. “He moved a lot. Fighters who move a lot and have good speed are really hard. He is a good fighter, but I have more weapons in my arsenal. I’m glad I have had another defence. Of course, I want unification fights. I still want them. I haven’t had a chance to fight for another belt, this is why I defend my belt. “I’d like to fight for another belt, it would be a good challenge for me. I believe I can become the Undisputed World Champion one day, this is why I train, that’s why I have a good team. I believe one day I will be if I train hard. Thanks to everyone who supports me and watched this fight.” 4 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest JOHNNY FISHER TKO3 (1:46) v PHIL WILLIAMS (Romford, England) (Swindon, England) Johnny Fisher moved to 2-0 as he stopped Swindon’s Phil Williams in the third round with a barrage of hurtful punches. ‘The Romford Bull’ gave another impressive display of his raw power, forcing the referee to step in after a sustained assault. “I thought it was brilliant to get out on such short notice,” Fisher told Matchroom. “Credit to Sam Jones and Eddie Hearn for getting the fight there for me. Phil Williams is an awkward and tough opponent; he’s only been stopped four or five times in 30 bouts. Awkward fight, but I got him out of there and I showed I could go three rounds and keep a high pace. “I’m trying to find the balance between having that killer instinct and sitting behind my boxing. Sometimes in there you probably get caught between the two. As I progress, I’ll be able to use that killer instinct more effectively. It was an awkward fight, but I showed that I’ve got the strength and the power to stop people. I stopped him in the third round. We’ll go against for the next one as soon as we can. “If you stay ready, you’ll get opportunities, especially at Matchroom and with S-JAM Boxing. I showed I can turn up and get the job done. I’m very grounded. I played rugby for a long time. That teaches you a lot of discipline. I’ve got family and a support network who believe in me. They always tell me the truth as well, and I’ll always be truthful about my own performances. “It’s all systems go, ready for the next one. I’ve got to get that jab off, because in the gym it’s coming off lovely. When you get under them lights, you can have a bit of eagerness. I’ve only had four amateur senior fights and I’ve got a long way to go in the professional ranks.” 12 x 3 mins vacant IBO Lightweight World Title JAMES TENNYSON v JOVANNI STRAFFON TKO1 (2:10) (Belfast, Northern Ireland) (Mexico City, Mexico) James Tennyson was dropped and stopped as Mexico’s Jovanni Straffon produced a stunning first-round victory to claim the vacant IBO Lightweight World Title. The Belfast man was stunned by an early onslaught from Straffon, who dropped Tennyson heavily and then forced referee Michael Alexander to wave the fight off after just two minutes and ten seconds. “I dreamed about this several years ago,” Straffon told Matchroom. “I know I was up against everything. I knew he was a very strong fighter. He called himself ‘The Assassin’, but he was assassinated. He punches hard, but nothing punches harder than life. “It has been a very good year for Mexican boxing. There has been lots of surprises and upsets. I’m not really surprised about what happened. I have been well prepared for a year. I knew I was the big underdog but now I’m the winner. “I would really like the opportunity to work with Eddie Hearn. I would like to thank my manager and promoter. I hope some really good things are coming my way. I believe I just won an opportunity to get some of the tough and big names out there. Don’t give up on anything, always keep on dreaming because dreams do come true.” 8 x 3 mins International Super-Middleweight contest SCOTT FITZGERALD TKO3 (2:43) v GREGORY TRENEL (Preston, England) (Dainville, France) Former British Super-Welterweight Champion Scott Fitzgerald ended his lengthy absence from the ring with a third-round stoppage of Frenchman Gregory Trenel in the opening bout of the evening. Fitzgerald hadn’t boxed since landing the British Title against Ted Cheeseman back in October 2019, and returned at Super-Middleweight as he continues to work his way back down to 154lbs. In his post fight interview, the unbeaten Preston talent reiterated his desire to rematch one of his former opponents Ted Cheeseman or Anthony Fowler by the end of the year. “It’s an amazing feeling,” Fitzgerald told Matchroom. “There were times I thought I wouldn’t get back here. To get back in there and come out with a stoppage is a great feeling. I was whacking some shots off his head, and at some points he was smiling. I could see he was tough. At the end he wasn’t looking to throw back and I was hitting him with some big shots. The body shots were hurting him. I think it was the right decision from the ref. “I’ve already lost a fair bit of weight to get down to 12 stone. If I’m out again in July I can be under eleven and a half stone and ready for a big one then. October time, under eleven stone then. I’ve 100% learnt my lessons. I just keep the right people around me. I’ll keep my eyes on the mission. No messing about. “I’d like to win the British Title back by the end of 2021. That’s what I’m hoping for. Cheeseman, I’m sure he’d be happy to fight me again as I’ve already beaten him. That’s a way back in for me. I’m going to keep chipping away at this weight and get myself ready. The first fight with Anthony Fowler was a great fight and everyone enjoyed it, the public enjoyed it and I know they all want to see it again. If it’s right to happen before the end of the year, I’m ready for it.” |
CHISORA VS. PARKER WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER
| 17:00 LIVE ON MATCHROOM BOXING YOUTUBE 8 x 3 mins International Super-Middleweight contest SCOTT FITZGERALD 12st 1lbs 4oz v GREGORY TRENEL 11st 12lbs 2oz (Preston, England) (Dainville, France) followed by 18:00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS BOX OFFICE/DAZN 12 x 3 mins vacant IBO Lightweight World Title JAMES TENNYSON 9st 8lbs 7oz v JOVANNI STRAFFON 9st 7lbs 2oz (Belfast, Northern Ireland) (Mexico City, Mexico) followed by 4 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest JOHNNY FISHER 17st 7lbs 4oz v PHIL WILLIAMS 19st 2lbs 7oz (Romford, England) (Swindon, England) followed by 12 x 3 mins WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title DMITRY BIVOL 12st 6lbs 2oz v CRAIG RICHARDS 12st 6lbs 6oz (Saint Petersburg, Russia) (Crystal Palace, England) followed by 10 x 3 mins Middleweight contest CHRIS EUBANK JR 11st 7lbs 9oz v MARCUS MORRISON 11st 7lbs 8oz (Brighton, England) (Hattersley, England) followed by 4 x 3 mins Lightweight contest CAMPBELL HATTON 9st 9lbs 9oz v LEVI DUNN 9st 8lbs 5oz (Manchester, England) (Prestwich, England) followed by 10 x 2 mins Undisputed Lightweight World Titles KATIE TAYLOR 9st 8lbs 8oz v NATASHA JONAS 9st 8lbs 7oz (Bray, Ireland) (Liverpool, England) followed by 12 x 3 mins vacant WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title DEREK CHISORA 17st 12lbs 8oz v JOSEPH PARKER 17st 3lbs 2oz (Finchley, England) (Auckland, New Zealand) |
PARKER: I WANT TO BE WORLD CHAMPION AGAIN
| Former WBO King meets ‘WAR’ Chisora in Manchester |
| Joseph Parker hopes that a win over Derek Chisora at the AO Arena, Manchester this Saturday May 1, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and DAZN in all markets excluding the UK, Ireland, China, New Zealand and Samoa, will kickstart his route back to the top of the Heavyweight division. Former WBO World Champion Parker (28-2, 21 KOs) is fresh off a hard-fought 12-round decision over long-time amateur nemesis Junior Fa at Spark Arena in Auckland, New Zealand that settled an 11-year old rivalry with his compatriot. Ranked at No.3 with the WBO, Parker recently teamed up with former Middleweight World Champion Andy Lee, and the 29-year-old knows an impressive stoppage of the teak-tough Chisora would propel him closer to his ambition of becoming a two-time World Champion. “I’m very prepared for this fight, I’ve had a great training camp with Andy in Ireland, then we moved over to Morecambe and got some great sparring under our belt, great pad work, bag, everything,” said Parker. “I feel like with this fight, physically and mentally, I’m in a great place – probably the best I’ve been in a while. “You will see some good changes. I’ll be sharper, with better movement and better footwork. I’ll be focused for the whole fight. If I execute the game-plan that Andy has put in place, it should be a good night for Team Parker. I expect Derek to be Derek – to apply pressure from the beginning, throwing punches and bombs. “Two totally different styles, Junior Fa’s style was move and hug, punch every now and then. With Derek it’s no secret, he’s going to come forward and apply the pressure, throw punches everywhere. My hands are going to have to be up, down and all around. “I’ve been a World Champion before and I want to be World champion again. In order to achieve that goal I have to get Derek out of the way first. Then set up the other fights that are out there. We’ve done everything we can to prepare for whatever he brings. “I think this is the perfect fight at the right time. We’re right there, get a good victory and there’s many other great fights out there to be made and to position yourself when the titles are free to fight for. This is a big card, not only the main event but the undercard fights are very exciting, I’m looking forward to Saturday.” Chisora vs. Parker tops a huge night of action in Manchester, Irish star Katie Taylor (17-0, 6 KOs) defends her Undisputed Lightweight crown against former amateur rival Natasha Jonas (9-1-1, 7 KOs), undefeated WBA Light-Heavyweight World Champion Dmitry Bivol (17-0, 11 KOs) puts his Title on the line against Craig Richards (16-1-1, 9 KOs), Chris Eubank Jr (29-2, 22 KOs) returns against Marcus Morrison (23-3, 16 KOs), Belfast’s James Tennyson (28-3, 24 KOs) faces Mexico’s Jovanni Straffon (23-3-1, 16 KOs) for the IBO Lightweight World Title, Preston’s Scott Fitzgerald (14-0, 9 KOs) makes his long awaited return against Gregory Trenel (13-6-2, 3 KOs) and Lightweight prospect Campbell Hatton (1-0) fights in his home city for the first time as a pro against Levi Dunn (0-4). |
CHISORA VS. PARKER + UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
| Eddie Hearn, Chairman of Matchroom Sport: “What a delight to be here in Manchester ahead of a huge night of boxing this Saturday from the AO Arena, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on DAZN around the world. This is the card of the year so far. There’s so much to talk about here today from the big Heavyweight main event to the Undisputed World Championship, to the World Light-Heavyweight Championship and much more.” Derek Chisora – Finchley, London – 32-10, 23 KO’s – fighting Joseph Parker for the vacant WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title: “I love fighting, throwing yourself in the World Title shot is okay. Dillian Whyte has been in the World Title shot for the last five years, he hasn’t gone anywhere. I don’t to put myself in those positions, I want to put myself in positions where I get to fight good fights. This is right, I’m fighting Joseph Parker and after that we’ll see what happens. “I want to do what I do best, come forward, fight, chuck hell and do what I do every day. Roll the dice and rock and roll – go at it. I’ll come out of the gates and just go. “The guy has a spider bite, we can’t deny it, we don’t know if it’s true or not, but he had it and now he’s here – we’re not going to cry over spilled milk. David did a good impression wearing the spiderman suit early on the morning, it was okay. The fight is here now so we’re not going to talk about history anymore, that’s why it’s called history. “It’s going to be a great night; good things are happening. It’s a big card, but we don’t have that little edge on with the fans, it’s depressing but what can we say. “The king is back, long live the king – I’m back. I’m buzzing, to all those fans at home, I’m going to bring smoke and I know my opponent is going to bring something which is going to be on his bike – but it’s going to be okay. He’s going to be cycling back to Australia but it’s all good. I know right now I’m still laughing and joking but when I come tomorrow, you’re going to know what time it is.” David Haye, Hayemaker Promotions: “Derek wants the biggest fights; he wants to leave a legacy and wants to go out there for people to know Derek Chisora means war and destruction. We pushed it to the wire with Usyk last time out, someone who’s ranked number one in the world, I thought he won the fight. It was a close fight, two judges only had it by two points, this time round he’s not going to leave it to the judges. No mind set to try and win this fight on points. “Joseph Parker, we know is an excellent boxer, one of the best jabs in the business. Ask Andy Ruiz, Carlos Takam, it’s a killer. So, it’s a simple solution, we’re not having a boxing match with Parker it must be a fight. I can guarantee a knockout in this fight, this is not going the distance. This is about how much Joseph Parker can take. “He’s got a great chin, he went twelve rounds with AJ, twelve rounds with Dillian Whyte who hit him on the button many times. Derek’s going to have to do something very special on Saturday night and he’s brought in the big guns – Buddy McGirt Hall of Fame trainer. We’re adding whatever we can to give Derek what’s needed to do the impossible. “A lot of people are not giving Derek a shot in this fight, but when you see how Derek comes across the ring in the first round, I think you’ll understand where this fight is going and going in a very destructive manner. It’s going to be all out explosion from the first round and get your popcorn and don’t go to the toilet. “Anybody who watches Derek Chisora will want to keep him on the outside, because once Derek’s on the inside – ask David Price who said when Derek was inside, he didn’t know where the punches were coming from. When you’re inside with those little gloves, a big Heavyweight with short cuffing shots. He’s been practicing this stuff; his inside game is very destructive. “Joseph Parker is going to be in a situation he hasn’t been in before, he’s fought come forward fighters before, but he’s been able to keep them at arm’s length. Derek must do his work in the inside, drag him into the deep end from round one. It’s going to have to be brutality from round one and I’m excited.” Buddy McGirt, trainer of Derek Chisora: “It’s been interesting, but it’s been great – I have no complaints. Derek, David and the team have made me feel at home, welcomed me well so I really can’t complain. “I expect Parker to do both, Andy Lee has got an old way of thinking. I think they’re going to box, but also try to fight on the inside when they want to fight on the inside – they want to dictate it. That I know, because they’re not going to try and box all night, I know guys like Andy and how he thinks. Sometimes you’ve got to try and beat a guy at his own game a little while, we’ve got to get down and dirty. “We’ve got to drag it down like that, it’s no secret. He’s got to be Derek, just smooth the rough edges. They’re going to try and box, yeah, but I also know in the later rounds they’re going to fight him in the inside and break our man down – we’re prepared for that.” Joseph Parker – Auckland, New Zealand – 28-2, 21 KOs – fighting Derek Chisora for the vacant WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title: “I’m very prepared for this fight, I’ve had a great training camp with Andy in Ireland, then we moved over to Morecambe and got some great sparring under our belt, great pad work, bag, everything. I feel like with this fight, physically and mentally, I’m in a great place – probably the best I’ve been in a while. “Two totally different styles, Junior Fa’s style was move and hug, punch every now and then. With Derek it’s no secret, he’s going to come forward and apply the pressure, throw punches everywhere. My hands are going to have to be up, down and all around. “I think this is the perfect fight at the right time. We’re right there, get a good victory and there’s many other great fights out there to be made and to position yourself when the titles are free to fight for. This is a big card, not only the main event but the undercard fights are very exciting, I’m looking forward to Saturday.” Andy Lee, trainer of Joseph Parker: “I can only see the fight playing out one way, with Derek coming forward and bringing war which he has done over numerous fights in recent years. I see Joseph boxing a smart fight, if he can put in the practice what we’ve been rehearsing in training the I can Joseph winning by late stoppage. We don’t want to leave anything to the judges, the only way to guarantee victory in this game is by getting a knockout, as much as they’re going for it, we’ll be going for it as well. “We might surprise you, we surprised everybody with Tyson Fury against Wilder, we just might do the same, but you’ll have to wait and see.” Katie Taylor – Bray, Ireland – 17-0, 6 KOs – defending her WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight World Titles against Natasha Jonas: “This is why we’re taking the fight; we don’t take any easy fights. I’m in this sport to fight the best, in terms of training camps every one’s the same, we train for every single fight as if it’s going to be my hardest. My mind set and mentality doesn’t change fight to fight so I’m looking forward to a great fight on Saturday. “The fight was nine years ago, we were both very different fighters to what we are now. I think we’ve both developed and matured into great pro fighters. The fight is going to be completely different Saturday night then it was in the London Olympics. What works in the pro game doesn’t work in the amateur game – this is a completely different fight. “I think my last few performances have shown I’m at my peak, I’ve shown my best in the last few performances. My last three fights were probably my best performances as a pro, so I feel like I’m definitely improving and getting better each time.” Ross Enamait, trainer of Katie Taylor: “We’re here to win the fight, we train hard for every fight. This is Katie Taylor’s twelfth World Title fight; this is there twelfth fight period. Every fight is a big fight, we’re coming to win and we’re here to win on Saturday. “She’s going to be as sharp as ever, we looked great the last fight, we beat Persoon clear in the second fight regardless and what he’s [Joe Gallagher] saying over here. The fight before that we looked great, there’s no slide, you’re going to see the best Katie on Saturday.” Natasha Jonas – Liverpool, England – 9-1-1, 7 KOs – challenging Katie Taylor for her WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight World Titles: “Every time I’m asked to step up, I do, and I perform. Being the underdog for me is no different, I’m always the underdog on the big night. The more you tell me I can’t do it, the more I’ll prove you that I can. “You’ve got to remember that going into the Harper fight we’d just come off a lockdown, financially I didn’t know when I was going to box again, I had the baby 24/7 because the schools were shut, and I was in a bit of pickle of where I was going to go or where my opportunity was going to arise. “Obviously we got that opportunity, and the baby came along to all the sessions, she was a big part of that camp. It was great to be back, and I was starting from down the mountain mentally, physically, emotionally. Now I’m not there, after the Harper fight, I’m at the top of the mountain. I’m starting at the Harper fight and building up from that. Everything says that I’m much better than from the Harper camp and I know I had to be there. “I think in boxing one punch changes everything. I do believe I have power; I don’t want to make prediction or disrespect anybody by saying that. After the traumatic experience of round 8 against Harper, I promised myself that they are learning curves and that will never happen again. If I get that opportunity, it’ll be the end of the fight.” Joe Gallagher, trainer of Natasha Jonas: “It’s good to see the bookies are giving Natasha a better chance against Katie then they did against Terri Harper, that’s good for a start. Its friends reunited, Katie Taylor – what can you not say about her. What she’s achieved, she’s a national hero back in Ireland, what she’s done for female boxing across the world, nothing but respect for her. “This is the fight business; come Saturday night this is strictly business. Katie Taylor, she’s the media darling, Natasha Jonas is going into the fight after a great career performance. She won the WBC Super-Featherweight title, only two people in the world didn’t think she got it, but apart from that she’s a World Champion in my eyes. “Natasha Jonas now moving up to Lightweight, here she is now taking on what people describe as the greatest all time female fighter. This is a fight that if there was to be three-minute rounds for women’s boxing, this would be it. If you go back and watch their London 2012 Olympic fight, it was brilliant. But to show how much both have improved since then, it would be better in 12 x 2 or 10 x 3 contest. “We’ve got a ten round sprint here; we’re seeing that with Natasha fight of the year with Teri Harper. We’re going into this fight with the bookies siding with Natasha more, the judges are to come and do what they need to do, not to be here in awe of Katie or Matchroom. They come here and score what happens, Sky have got to commentate on punches landed, not where they’re from or what’s going round. “Natasha is a strong live underdog, I’m telling you now Katie Taylor, whether she wants to say it or not, this will be the hardest and most disciplined training camp she’s ever had for any of her fights. She knows the serious threat Natasha Jones brings. They know the threat, what we want in this fight is fairness by the judges and the commentary to score on what’s seen. If everyone does their job, including me and Natasha, we’re going to have a new Undisputed World Champion come Sunday morning. “Sit back, enjoy your popcorn and enjoy what it is – it’s the biggest female fight the UK and Ireland has ever seen. We’re privileged to be part of it and see this event. We’ll roll onto Saturday night.” Dmitry Bivol – Saint Petersburg, Russia – 17-0, 11 KOs – defending his WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title against Craig Richards: “I missed fighting, I’m really looking forward to getting in the ring and making a great fight for all of the boxing fans. I have a dream to be the Undisputed Champion, I have goals to fight in Saint Petersburg, to fight in the America, to fight in England. Now I’ve accomplished one of my goals. “I just believe in my skills; I believe I can beat him and move forward again. Of course, I think about my life, I’m living until May 1st then we’ll see what will happen. I believe, I trained all my life, I’ve boxed since I can remember, and I have to be the winner.” Vadim Kornilov, World of Boxing: “It’s been frustrating for everybody with COVID and everything going on, there are a couple of opportunities but I’m really excited for Dmitry to have his first debut in the UK. The fans here are great, we’ve had a lot of success with Povetkin, getting a lot of attention. “This is important for him and his career, I can see the ambition on the other side, I can see the professional team, that will make the fight even more exciting. Both guys are coming to win and both guys have a lot of confidence. We feel very excited, and we look forward to Saturday.” Craig Richards – Crystal Palace, England – 16-1-1, 9 KOs – challenging Dmitry Bivol for the WBA Light-Heavyweight World Title: “I believe that I can become the next champion. I’ve come off a good win for the British Title, it’s not like I was in dark place in my career, and this was the only opportunity. I’ve got momentum in my career; I only took the fight because I believe I can win, and I want more momentum.” “People talk about me stepping up from the British scene and moving on. My careers been a bit backwards, although it looks like I’ve just won the British and moved on I’ve been beating unbeaten guys early on my career. “If you look at all the other Brits that have pushed on, they’ve had one domestic dust up and then moved on to the world scene. I’ve had loads of experience, when’s the time to move on – I can’t keep fighting domestically, it’s time to push on I’ve got enough experience. I’m ready to go. “I think he’s [Bivol] one of the greatest fighters in the Light-Heavyweight division. This is why he’s perfect for the job. People mentioned the other Light-Heavyweights, sometimes I wasn’t getting mentioned, but I believe I was getting overlooked. Beating someone like Dmitry Bivol, who’s one of the best out there, I’ll get the credit I deserve.” Peter Sims, trainer of Craig Richards: “We had a conversation before the Shakan Pitters fight and I said to him, it’s not about if you win this fight, it’s how you win this fight – this will define whether you’ll step up or stay at the British level for a little while. The way he dismantled Shakan Pitters was a sign for him to step up. “He’s fifth in the WBO rankings, he’s 3rd or 4th in the British rankings. I believe he’s the best British Light-Heavyweight at the moment.” “Boxing is made of upsets, if we go back to Nigel Benn vs. Gerald McClellan fight, or recently Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua, conspiring to upset the boat and beat Dmitry Bivol – I think he can. “You can’t deny that Dmitry Bivol is a class fighter, his amateur pedigree is absolutely spot on. We’re going into the fight with total 100 respect for Bivol. He’s the WBA Super Light-Heavyweight World Champion for a reason. “His speed is good, he’s got great feet, he’s got the whole package, but we believe with the assets Craig’s got and what he’s developed and how he’s progressed in the gym, he can do the job and upset the boat.” Campbell Hatton – Manchester, England – 1-0 – fighting Levi Dunn in a four round Lightweight contest: “I learnt a lot; the whole week was a great experience for me – I enjoyed every minute. I learnt just how hard a game it is, the opponent I faced was a tough, durable lad. I got the 8-ounce gloves on and thought he’s not going to last two rounds with these on. They are tough blokes; you don’t just knock them over. Now I know to keep calm and not try and force things. “I’ve known Levi, I’ve sparred him and know what to expect. It’s a good thing at this stage in my career to put a bit of a game plan together which you don’t normally get. That’s going to help me stay calm as well, I know the specific things I need to do. The United top makes things a lot better. “I think in my first fight I showed little glimpses of what I can do. I set high pace that I could fight, but I didn’t show my boxing brain and the classy work I can do. This time I do want to show that patience and put in a more classy performance.” Levi Dunn – Prestwich, England – 0-4 – fighting Campbell Hatton in a four round Lightweight contest: “I only started boxing when I was 17, from when I started, I always saw myself on Sky and Matchroom. I didn’t think it would happen this fast but now I’m here. “I’m just blessed to be here in the first place, with this pandemic I didn’t think it was going to happen like this. The only fights have been hard fight out there, but I’ve got to win and try my best. Each fight I know I’m improving a hell of a lot, it’s only a matter of time before I feel like I’ll be able to beat everyone in my weight class. “Since we sparred, I’ve had 3 pro fights since then and sparred a lot of top kids so I feel like I’ve improved a hell of a lot since then.” Chris Eubank Jr – Brighton, England – 29-2, 22 KOs – fighting Marcus Morrison in a ten round Middleweight contest: “That’s what this fight is about, to see if that sauce is still there. I haven’t fought a ten-round fight in a long time, I’ve been out of the ring for a long time. My last fight was in New York end of 2019 and lasted two rounds, so the last real fight was February 2019. So this is my opportunity to get back in the ring and showcase everything me and Roy have been working on over the last year and a half. “We’ve done a lot of work, I have been inactive in terms of not being in the ring fighting, but in terms of what I’ve bene doing with Roy at his gym, super active – everyday week in week out. Learning, improving, I’m one of the only fighters in the game that can say during COVID I improved as a fighter, I think I’ve ascended so it’s just up for me now to go out there and show off the skills. “What I was doing worked for me for a long time, but I got to a point where I realised that once you reach a certain level you need as much support as you can get, as many eyes on you as possible. Going into the gym on your own schedule, doing what you want, controlling the gym, it’s not necessarily the best way to do things – especially if there’s somebody that can guide you better than you can guide yourself. “I had a very hard time finding that in a trainer, which is why I chose not to have one for so long. In meeting Roy, I found someone I fully trust, when he tells me to do something I can second guess it. It’s been a very eye-opening experience. Everything happens for a reason and I think this is the perfect time we met, during COVID, I’m very happy.” Kalle Sauerland, promoter of Chris Eubank Jr: “That’s what boxing’s about, it’s about opportunities. But you know it’s exciting to be working with Roy, what a legend and one of my all-time favourite fighters. Roy came in as a bonus, we were talking with Jr before, and we weren’t sure the relationship with Roy and Chris because everybody was in lockdown and working behind closed doors. “Chris is one of those talents and personalities that only come around so often, and he reminds me of a throwback to the days of the UK where his dad performed. He’s a combination, he’s throwback fighter, he’s got the charisma and warrior like approach of his father, he’s got the bang of Benn, he’s got the speed of Naseem, he’s got the set on him like Collins. “You’ve got everything you need in a fighter and now he’s got Roy in the corner. He’s got Wasserman Boxing in his corner, a powerhouse, no disrespect to the other side but we are here to take over and Saturday in the first step of a massive year.” Roy Jones Jr, trainer of Chris Eubank Jr: “I really love the atmosphere, really loved being here. For me and Joe outside the ring we’ve got to play mental chess as well. We’re here to give our athletes the best opportunities to go out and showcase what they are. This kid has the ability to be anything he wants to be in boxing, I’m sure his kid feels the same. “When you get a horse that can win the Kentucky Derby, you’ve just got to get him with the right trainer and situation, and the sky’s the limit. That’s what’s happened with Chris, he’s been doing so much on his own and got so far on his own, you’ve got to take your hat off to it. Now the fact he came to my gym and he stayed there, shows me he wants to get better; he wants to the top of the heat, he wants to win the triple crown. “I’m so glad to him get this opportunity, so glad to see Marcus get this opportunity, I’m looking forward to being a part of this. “You never know what God has in store for you, you never say never because you never know. Because we didn’t become rivals [Chris Eubank Sr] or enemies, I’m able to help his son.” Marcus Morrison – Hattersely, England – 23-3, 16 KOs – fighting Chris Eubank Jr in a ten round Middleweight contest: “This is a massive fight for me and I’m well aware this is levels above what I have previously been in with before. When I got the phone call, there was no way I was turning it down, this is a great fight and I think it’s going to be full of excitement come Saturday. “I don’t think being inactive is going to play a massive part in this fight. If you’re a true athlete and professional, you’ll stay in the gym. Even if you’ve not got a fight you’ll stay in and work on your craft. Both of us are that type of fighter, I believe Chris has stayed in the gym and stayed busy, it’s the same with me. I can’t wait and the fans are in for a treat.” Joe Gallagher, trainer of Marcus Morrison: “It’s a huge opportunity, in my opinion it will be a rough, tough, rugged type of fight – all action. Obviously, you’ve got Roy Jones Jr, what a legend of a fighter but also a gentleman outside the sport. It’s fantastic to have him here in Manchester, he’s always gracious, kind and has time for people. Having him involved has added that little bit of spice. “Macus has been at this arena 8 or 9 times now. We’ve pushed him once before with Welborn, it was man against boy at the time. Welborn then went on to win a British Title. Marcus then had a win in Italy, showed he had power late. “It’s hard this fight, I’m a huge fan – I like the kid, he reminds me of Callum Johnson last week. He’s coming for it; he’s having a straightener with you whether you like it or not it’s a fight. That’s what we like, and I think that’s what boxing is missing nowadays, fighters that want to fight – this kid wants to fight. “Marcus Morrison, he likes to fight as well, this is going to be a good one. Marcus carries power in both hands, we know he’s an underdog but when anybody in a fight can punch you’ve got to be wary and respectful of that. Marcus on Saturday night will be going in there hoping to land, if he lands it’ll be what happens next. Can he finish? We don’t know. Can Chris survive? We don’t know. We will have a moment in this fight, how the fight plays out after that remains to be seen. “We had Marcus going over some of Chris’ old fights early one, very sharp. We’ve had Chris in the gym before, I know him and I can’t talk bad of him, he’s a good fighter. He carries himself well and is a personality in boxing. When the bell goes it’s down to both Marcus and Chris, Chris is going to try to implement things Roy has taught him. I’m not going to say they’ve overlooked Marcus but if eh they have, they could come unstuck Saturday night.” James Tennyson – Belfast, Northern Ireland – 28-3, 24 KOs – fighting Jovanni Straffon for the vacant IBO Lightweight World Title: “It’s a huge opportunity for me to put myself up there and earn some fights with the top Lightweights in the world. “This is it; this is the belt that I need to get me up there. This is going to put me in a great position, like you said the other belts are taken and I want a piece of the action. “I’m looking forward to a good fight, these Mexicans have got a reputation for their toughness and durability – they bring it every time. I’m excited, I love these kinds of fights this is what I’m up for. “This has got the makings to be a very exciting fight. I’m praying, ready and very confident – I’m looking forward to it.” Jovanni Straffon – Mexico City, Mexico – 23-3-1, 16 KOs – fighting James Tennyson for the vacant IBO Lightweight World Title: “I come here for the upset, I come here for the win and I want all the people in the UK and world to watch me fight. “He [Tennyson] might fight as a Mexican but he’s never faced a Mexican so he can expect a war.” Scott Fitzgerald – Preston, England – 14-0, 9 KOs – fighting Gregory Trenel in an eight round Super-Middleweight contest: “I’m buzzing to be back. It’s been a long time, 18 months, this is all new to me. That’s how long it’s been. I’m looking forward to getting in there Saturday, do a job and get myself back in the mix. “At one point I wasn’t sure if I was going to be back in the ring. I’ve been working hard and I’m happy to be back here and about to get back in the ring. I’ll do a job Saturday night and I look forward for what’s to come. “I know that a lot of people want to see that fight again [Fowler]. I think I can do a better job on it as well. I’d like to get this fight out the way, you’ve mentioned another fight in July, look for one of those big fights whether it’s the Fowler rematch of whatever – for October time. “Sometimes things aren’t going great, but it’s not going to be like that for the rest of your life. You just get up and keep trying, you’ll get back.” Gregory Trenel – Dainville, France – 13-6-2, 3 KOs – fighting Scott Fitzgerald in an eight round Super-Middleweight contest: “This is the perfect moment for me against a beautiful opposition. I am dangerous for Scott because I’m crazy.” |
