James - The Boxing Exchange

EVAN HOLYFIELD SET TO CONTINUE HIS COMEBACK

SATURDAY, AUGUST 2, AT CHRISTY MARTIN’S “MAYHEM IN MUSIC CITY 2” EVAN HOLYFIELD SET TO CONTINUE HIS COMEBACK THIS SATURDAY, AUGUST 2, AT CHRISTY MARTIN’S “MAYHEM IN MUSIC CITY 2” EVENT FROM THE FAIRGROUNDS ARENA IN NASHVILLE AND LIVE ON MILLIONS.CO PPV July 28, 2025, Nashville, TN – Super welterweight prospect Evan “Yung Holy” Holyfield has been added to Christy Martin Promotions’ “Mayhem in Music City 2” boxing event this Saturday, August 2, at the Fairgrounds Arena in Nashville. Holyfield (12-1, 8 KOs), the son of former two-division world champion Evander Holyfield, will face Saint Louis veteran Jeremiah Robinson (8-5, 8 KOs) in a six-round test. Tickets for “Mayhem in Music City 2” start at $60.70 (incl. $5.20 Fee & $5.39 Tax) and are available from Eventbrite. Saturday’s ring appearance will mark just the second fight for Holyfield in over two years. The 27-year-old underwent open-heart surgery in September 2023 to correct a right coronary anomaly, a congenital cardiac blood vessel malformation that up to 1% of people are born with. Though most are not dangerous, Holyfield required emergency surgery to ensure his survival. .Now fully recovered and ready to resume his hunt for a world championship, Holyfield says he’s more than ready to wow the fans this Saturday night. “I always knew I had heart,” said Holyfield. “My heart has been in boxing since I was 12 years old, but now I have a perfect heart, and I feel that is going to take me to the top in boxing. I think people who come to see me fight Saturday are going to see me bringing a great deal of mayhem to my opponent.” Holyfield’s long-time chief trainer, Atlanta boxing mastermind “Sugar” Bert Wells, has trained hundreds of world-class boxers, and says he has high hopes for the comeback of the second-generation prospect. “Evan knows how to fight, and a healthy Evan will go all the way if he keeps his focus,” said Wells. Manager Mike Joyce, a Chicago boxing attorney and the son-in-law of Muhammad Ali, says he has had his eye on Holyfield since he was an amateur. “Evan has that Holyfield bloodline,” said Joyce, “which means he is athletic, tough, and hard-working. His style makes for exciting fights, and I believe that is the reason Christy Martin has invited him to appear.” The night’s main event will feature Victor “Jalapeno” Hernandez (14-0, 12 KOs) taking on Jayvon “El Elegido” Garnett (10-2, 5 KOs) for the NABA & Junior NABF Featherweight Championships. “Mayhem in Music City 2” will also be broadcast live on Millions.co pay-per-view. “Evan Holyfield always puts on a great show for the fans, and I’m happy to see him back and healthier than ever,” said promoter Christy Martin. “He will be facing an opponent who has knocked out every opponent he’s faced, so it will be a dangerous fight for him to be taking so soon into his comeback.” On fight night, doors will open at 6 pm and the first fight starts at 7 pm. The Fairgrounds Arena is located at 401 Wingrove Street in Nashville. Please use the “Expo 3” entrance from Wedgewood. # # #

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‘Camden Buzzsaw’ leaves behind a legacy of grit, love, and inspiration

CURRENT EVENTS / James

‘Camden Buzzsaw’ leaves behind a legacy of grit, love, and inspiration (BALTIMORE – July 26, 2025) — Dwight Muhammad Qawi, the fierce two-division world champion who rose from the prison yard to boxing immortality, passed away yesterday, Friday, July 25, 2025, at the age of 72 following a five-year battle with dementia. Born Dwight Braxton on January 5, 1953, at Baltimore’s historic Provident Hospital, Qawi was raised in Camden, New Jersey, where early hardship and bullying shaped the fire within him. “He was hungry to win,” said his sister Wanda Marvay King, recalling how being bullied as children gave him the drive to succeed. That determination would take him far. While serving time in Rahway State Prison, Qawi discovered boxing and committed himself to the sport. He went on to do the unthinkable—defeating the then-unbeatable James Scott inside the very prison where they had both been incarcerated. Upon his release in 1978, he launched a professional career that would span two decades. Known as “The Camden Buzzsaw” for his relentless pressure-fighting style, Qawi captured the WBC Light Heavyweight Championship in 1981 with a dramatic 10th-round TKO of Matthew Saad Muhammad. After defending the title three times, he moved up in weight and won the WBA Cruiserweight Championship in 1985, knocking out Piet Crous in South Africa. In 1986, Qawi fought Olympic gold medalist Evander Holyfield in one of the greatest cruiserweight battles of all time, going 15 hard rounds in a split-decision loss that only further cemented his legend. He retired in 1999 with a record of 41 wins, 11 losses, and 1 draw, including 25 knockouts, and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2004. Beyond the ring, Qawi was a loving and family-oriented man. He lived at 704 West Lafayette Avenue near Baltimore’s Lafayette Square and remained deeply connected to both Baltimore and Camden throughout his life. He was a devoted son who helped care for his mother, a proud father and grandfather, and a guiding light to young people in trouble. After retiring from boxing, he dedicated himself to service, working as a drug and alcohol counselor and youth advocate at The Lighthouse, a recovery home in Mays Landing, New Jersey. “He told them to stay off drugs and alcohol and stay out of trouble,” his sister said. “He was full of love.” Even in his final years, Qawi fought dementia with the same heart and courage that defined his boxing career. “He fought dementia just like he fought in the ring,” said King. “He never gave up.” .

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Rozicki Back In The Gym, returning to the Ring

PRESS RELEASES / James

Canadian Cruiserweight Contender Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki Back in the gym, returning to ring October 25 in Nova Scotia HAMILTON, Ontario, Canada (July 23, 2025) – World cruiserweight contender Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1-1, 19 KOs) has resumed training following a torn right bicep tendon sustained in April. His promoter, Three Lions Promotions, has announced Rozicki will officially make his return to the ring on October 25th at home in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Rozicki will face South African Akani “Prime” Phuzi (14-3, 6 KOs) in the 10-round main event for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Continental Americas Cruiserweight Championship. “We’re excited to bring Ryan Rozicki back home to Sydney, Nova Scotia, on October 25th for what promises to be an explosive matchup against South Africa’s Akani ‘Prime’ Phuzi,” commented Daniel Otter, Managing Director of Three Lions Promotions. “This could very well be Ryan’s final fight in Cape Breton as he resumes his world title pursuit abroad, making it a special opportunity for local fans to witness him live. Tickets are on sale this Friday (July 25) at 10 a.m. ET through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.ca) and the Centre 200 website (www.centre200.ca). We’re expecting a packed house.” Canadian Super Middleweight Champion John Michael ‘JM’ Bianco (9-1, 4 KOs) will also be fighting on the Oct. 25th card versus an opponent to be determined. Undefeated Mexican native Meilyn Sanchez (3-0, 1 KO), now fighting out of Canada, will take on Costa Rican super bantamweight Silvia Duan (4-3, 3 KOs) in a 6-round bout, while Canadian middleweight Brett Beaton (6-3, 4 KOs) will be showcased against an opponent to be determined. Full card details will be announced shortly. “I have trained my whole life for an opportunity like this,” Phuzi said. “I am coming to spoil Rozicki’s plan, take his ranking, and fight for the world title.” Back on May 3rd, as the mandatory challenger, the hard-luck Canadian boxer had been scheduled to face World Boxing Council (WBC) Cruiserweight World Champion Badou “The Ripper” Jack in Saudi Arabia. Unfortunately, the aforementioned injury forced him to withdraw from his third ordered world title fight. The 30-year-old native of Nova Scotia has since undergone successful surgery, and he plans to secure his long-awaited world title shot in 2026. “I was sparring for my fight with Jack,” Rozicki remembered. “I threw a right to the body, and my tendon snapped. I certainly wasn’t expecting that, but I knew it when I heard it pop. I didn’t see it (damaged bicep) until I looked down and saw my bicep pulled up to my shoulder. “At first, I was distraught, but after some time, I believed everything happens for a reason and that will show in the near future. There have been some difficult moments. I just went back to the gym for the first time (since he suffered his injury) since it happened. I just keep thinking about the future and what’s coming. “After this layoff, I just want to get back in the ring, win this belt (WBC Continental Americas) in October and then, of course, fight for the world title.” Rozicki earned his WBC No. 1 challenger position during the past two years but faced setbacks with two canceled title fights against Noel Mikaelyan. His injury cost him the world title fight with Jack on May 3rd, he was replaced by Mikaelyan, who then lost a disputed decision. Mikaelyan’s petition for an immediate rematch was granted, and negotiations are ongoing. Rozicki, of course, is due for a positive break after so many disappointing setbacks during his 9-year professional boxing career. He was just elevated to the No. 4 position in Ring Magazine’s independent world cruiserweight ratings, ahead of Jack, Mikaelyan, and Peralta. Otter is confident in the process, as well as his fighter, in terms of becoming the first Canadian-born World Cruiserweight Champion. “We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to His Excellency Turki Alalshikh for his ongoing support, reflected in Ryan’s recognition by Ring Magazine,” Otter concluded. “Our appreciation also goes to WBC President Maurico Sulaiman and Alberto Leon of the WBC for sanctioning this bout. “While this may not be the title fight we originally had in mind at the start of the year, it’s the perfect comeback bout for Rozicki following his injury. His opponent is no slouch, and this will be a real test that fans won’t want to miss.” Rozicki is preparing to take care of business on Oct. 25 to continue his championship dream. “I’m going to get that WBC World title belt,” Rozicki exclaimed.

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THE CAREER OF JOEY GIARDELLO

FIGHTERS OF THE 20th CENTURY / James

GIARDELLO STATUE DEDICATION July 21, 2025 Dick Tiger, left, and Joey Giardello pose before one of their four epic bouts. Remembering the Career OF Joey Giardello Thanks to the members of Ring 1 and South Philly Boxing for celebrating Joey Giardello’s birthday (he would have been 95) on July 21st at Nior Restaurant, located in the neighborhood where his statue is erected and where he grew up. The statue was dedicated on May 21st, 2012. Born Carmine Orlando Tilelli on July 16, 1930, in Brooklyn, NY. He adopted the name Joey Giardello to enlist in the U.S. Army underage, using the identity of a cousin’s friend. Served in the Army during WWII and boxed while in service. After his discharge in 1948, he turned pro and settled in South Philadelphia, where he maintained this persona throughout his boxing career. Snapshot of Career Early pro fights (1948–1950) featured mostly journeymen opponents. His first setbacks came against Joe DiMartino and other lesser-known boxers. A notorious New York commission incident involved his fight against Billy Graham, where the decision was reversed twice, eventually restored in court as Giardello’s win. It’s referred to as “The reversed reversal” in boxing lore. First title shot: April 20, 1960, against Gene Fullmer, which ended in a grueling 15-round draw. In 1962, beat Henry Hank in a fight named Ring Magazine’s Fight of the Year. On June 24, 1963, he shocked the boxing world by defeating Sugar Ray Robinson at age 33—a performance that earned him top contender status against Dick Tiger. December 7, 1963: Won the WBA/WBC/The Ring middleweight title by defeating Dick Tiger in Atlantic City via 15-round decision. Championship Reign. Held the world middleweight championship from late 1963 to October 1965, defending the title four times December 14, 1964: Defended his title against “Hurricane” Rubin Carter in Philadelphia. Despite Carter’s early dominance, Giardello rallied to win unanimously. The fight was later mischaracterized in the 1999 film The Hurricane, leading Giardello to sue over its portrayal; the case was settled out of court. Lost his title to Dick Tiger in a rematch on October 21, 1965, after struggling with weight-cutting and conditioning challenges, as documented by chronic weight issues toward the end of his reign Final Fights & Retirement After his title loss, Giardello had just four more fights through 1967, including a decision loss to rising prospect Jack Rodgers, before retiring for good with a record 101–25–7 (with one no contest) and 33 KOs. Life After Boxing & Recognition Post-boxing, he returned to his birth name and worked as an insurance agent and distributor. He was also active in charitable causes, especially working with intellectually disabled communities, inspired by his son Carmine Jr., who had Down syndrome. Received several honors: International Boxing Hall of Fame induction in 1993. Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame induction (posthumous) in 2009. A statue erected in South Philly at Passyunk Ave. / 13th / Mifflin streets to immortalize the boxer beloved by his city. Giardello passed away on September 4, 2008, at age 78 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. He had battled congestive heart failure and diabetes. He left behind his wife Rosalie, four sons, and a lasting legacy in boxing and his community. Thanks to: Passyunk Gym Phillyboxinghistory.com Joey Eyes

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Toro Promotions. Inc. to promote its First International pro boxing show

CURRENT EVENTS / James

Toro Promotions. Inc. to promote its First International pro boxing show in El Salvador on September 20th LOS ANGELES (June 23, 2025) – Toro Promotions, Inc. has announced that it will expand its market on the international scene by promoting its first pro boxing event on September 20th in El Salvador. The world of professional boxing is set to make history as El Salvador proudly hosts its inaugural boxing event on September 20th at the prestigious venue, Gimnasio Nacional Jose Adolfo Pineda in San Salvador, the capital and largest city in El Salvador. With the help of Toro Promotions, this landmark event marks a monumental moment in sports in El Salvador, bringing together world-class athletes, global media, and passionate fans for an unforgettable night of high-stakes competition and world title fights. This event will receive the support and recognition of the World Boxing Council (WBC) and the regulatory framework of the Salvadoran Boxing Federation (FESALBOX), the highest governing body for boxing in El Salvador. The nation is establishing a robust foundation for a new era of sporting excellence, inviting more international organizations to collaborate in advancing boxing and elevating all national sports. El Salvador President Nayib Bukele’s broader vision includes his country becoming a center for major boxing and MMA events. The Boxing Federation recently appointed International Boxing & MMA Consultants, Inc. (“IBMC”) as the national athletic commission overseeing professional boxing, mixed martial arts, and other combat sports in El Salvador. IBMC will be responsible for licensing, regulating, and reporting pending events and results of professional boxing, MMA, and all other professional combat sports events in El Salvador in order to continue attracting attention worldwide as a welcome venue for combat sports. Los Angeles-based Toro Promotions, Inc., which has promoted numerous shows in California and Washington over the past few years, is looking forward to promoting combat sports events in El Salvador. “With El Salvador attracting huge interest and investment to serve as a regional and global hub for boxing and MMA, Toro Promotions is spearheading this endeavor,” Toro’s promoter, Azat Torosyan, said. “We are proud to promote and organize the first international pro boxing event in El Salvador. Toro Promotions also welcomes the opportunity to work with Mr. Campuzano and his expert team to ensure the highest global standards of safety and fairness for athletes competing under our banner.” Toro Promotions is known for its stable of talented heavyweights such as 2020 Ukrainian Olympian Tsotne “Mr. T” Rogava (12-0, 8 KOs), Dante Stone (19-1, 12 KOs), Kingsley “The Black Lion” Ibeh (15-2-1, 13 KOs), Alexander “The Great” Flores (19-5-1, 17 KOs), and Jack “The Outlaw” May (10-1, 9 KOs). Other top Toro fighters include a trio of gifted super featherweights – WBA No. 13 rated Austin Brooks (13-0-1, 6 KOs), and Nilo Guerrero (10-0, 7 KOs). The Sept. 20th show in El Salvador is scheduled to be headlined by a 10-round WBC FECARBOX Heavyweight title fight between Ibeh, who has won his last 10 fights in a row, against past world heavyweight title challenger Gerald Washington (21-6-1, 14 KOs) Also scheduled to be in action are Brooks in a 12-round title fight, as well as Guerrero in separate bouts against opponents to be determined. Card subject to change. Full details will be coming during the next few weeks. -30-

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LOPEZ AND VARGAS FIGHT TO EXCITING SPLIT DRAW

CURRENT EVENTS / James

LOPEZ AND VARGAS FIGHT TO EXCITING SPLIT DRAW MAIN EVENT OF CHRISTY MARTIN PROMOTIONS AND PATRICK ORTIZ’S RINGSIDE TICKET INC.’S PECHANGA RESORT CASINO IN TEMECULA, CA Friday, July 18, 2025 – Temecula, CA – Christy Martin Promotions and Patrick Ortiz’s Ringside Ticket Inc., presented “Lopez vs. Vargas,” on Friday night, as Louie Lopez and crosstown rival Adrian Vargas fought to a thrilling split draw in the 10-round welterweight main event from the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. The action was also streamed live on Millions.co. Not there to waste any time, both fighters came out firing from the opening bell. Vargas (15-0-2, 10 KOs) stung Lopez (16-2-4, 5 KOs) with a hook in round two, although Lopez got his share of big shots in as well. Lopez punctuated a strong round four by landing a sharp right hand that briefly forced Vargas to hold on. Vargas, who had never previously gone past four rounds in his career, appeared to be coming on in rounds five and six, but ran into a strong right hand from Lopez in the seventh that shifted the fight’s momentum yet again. After a strong round nine for Vargas, Lopez closed the show well by edging out a competitive final round. After 10 blistering rounds that had the large crowd on its feet, the scores were 96-94 Vargas, 99-91 Lopez and 95-95. In the night’s 10-round co-featured bout, WBA-NABA Super Welterweight Champion Emeka “The Lion Heart” Nwokolo (16-1, 13 KOs) of Los Angeles via Benin City, Nigeria, successfully defended his title with a well-fought 10-round unanimous decision over late-sub opponent Jose “El Guerro” Sanchez (14-6-1, 4 KOs) of Albuquerque. Sanchez, who had been scheduled to fight Abel Ramos on tomorrow night’s Pacquiao vs. Barrios card, started well, gliding around the perimeter and catching Nwokolo coming in several times with sharp right hands. The clear aggressor throughout, Nwokolo had a good round six, as he upped the intensity and trapped Sanchez against the ropes with an extended two-fisted attack. Nwokolo appeared to badly sting Sanchez in an exciting round nine with a left hook, but the rugged New Mexican managed to stay on his feet and even landed a few haymakers of his own near the end of the round. Miraculously, Sanchez came out for round 10 looking energized and landed several multi-punch salvos to the head of Nwokolo. “That guy is a warrior,” said a happy Nwokolo, post-fight. “I’m looking for any opportunities I can get. I’m ready to take on anyone.” The scores were 97-93 x 2 and 96-94, all for the champion. 18-year-old former two-time national amateur champion Paolo “Pow” Barredo (4-0, 2 KOs) of Walnut, California, scored a dominant four-round decision over 30-fight super featherweight veteran Luis Valdez (8-21-1, 2 KOs) of Tijuana. Showing patience, the well-schooled Barredo finally dropped Valdez with a hook in round three, but the Mexican survival expert was able to avoid being finished and ultimately made the final bell. The scores were an academic 40-35 across the board for the promising Barredo. Super welterweight prospects Devin “White Chocolate” Parrish (5-0-1, 5 KOs) of Chicago and Oscar Trujillo (2-0-2, 1 KO) of Riverside, California, retained their undefeated records by fighting to an exciting six-round split draw. In a fight that could have been contested in a phone booth, both men went to work on each other, nose-to-nose, from the opening bell. Parrish briefly staggered Trujillo with an overhand right in round two and again early in round three with a right hook, but in both cases, Trujillo shook it off and came back with his own power shots. Parrish appeared to be the stronger fighter, while Trujillo was more active. The scores were 59-55 Trujillo, 59-55 Parrish and 57-57. Murrieta, California welterweight Michael “Boogeyman” Meyers (7-2-1, 3 KOs) fought to an entertaining and hard-fought six-round split draw against a game Josias Gonzalez (2-5-2) of Whittier, California. Meyers kept the pressure on, loading up with two-fisted haymakers to the head and body, while Gonzalez moved around the ring firing three- and four-punch combinations. Gonzalez got off to a good start, while Meyers came on stronger in the second half. The scores were 58-56 each way, with a 57-57 card securing the draw. Both fighters expressed the desire for a rematch and the energized crowd strongly agreed. In the opening fight of the night, lightweight William King (6-2-2, 3 KOs) made quick work of Markus Bowes (3-9, 2 KOs). After sizing Bowes up for a minute, King landed a perfect straight right hand at 1:43 of the opening round, dropping Bowes for the full 10 count. King looked sharp and dangerous for a fighter returning from an 11-month layoff. # # #

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THE GOLDEN ERA HEAVYWEIGHTS OF THE 1950s

HISTORICAL / James

Year by Year Documentary of 1950s Heavyweight Action Marciano: The Unbeatable Champion Floyd Patterson, The Thinking Man’s Fighter The Cincinnati Cobra – Ezzard Charles THE GOLDEN ERA OF HEAVYWEIGHT BOXING Heavyweight boxing in the 1950s was a golden era for the sport, marked by legendary champions, iconic rivalries, and a gritty, action-packed style of fighting. The decade began with the reign of Ezzard Charles and ended with Floyd Patterson becoming the youngest heavyweight champion at that time. Key Boxers of the 1950s 1. Joe Louis (“The Brown Bomber”) Although his prime was in the 1930s and 1940s, Louis continued to fight until 1951. Retired in 1949, but came back due to financial troubles and was defeated by Ezzard Charles in 1950. His influence and legacy loomed large over the 1950s. 2. Ezzard Charles World Heavyweight Champion: 1950–1951 Defeated Joe Louis in a unanimous decision in 1950. Known as a skilled, technical boxer with underrated power. Lost the title to Jersey Joe Walcott in 1951. 3. Jersey Joe Walcott World Heavyweight Champion: 1951–1952 Finally won the title at age 37 after multiple attempts. Knocked out Charles in their third fight. Lost the title to Rocky Marciano in 1952. 4. Rocky Marciano (“The Brockton Blockbuster”) World Heavyweight Champion: 1952–1956 Retired undefeated at 49–0 with 43 KOs. Famous fights: Two brutal wins over Walcott and two over Charles. Known for relentless pressure, granite chin, and knockout power. Retired in 1956, leaving the title vacant. 5. Floyd Patterson World Heavyweight Champion: 1956–1959 Won the vacant title in 1956 at age 21, becoming the youngest champion at the time. Olympic gold medalist in 1952. Managed by Cus D’Amato, known for his peek-a-boo style defense. Lost the title to Ingemar Johansson in 1959. 6. Ingemar Johansson Swedish heavyweight who shocked the world by knocking out Patterson in 1959. Became heavyweight champ, setting up a trilogy that continued into the early 1960s. Style of the Era Fighters often had smaller training teams and fought more frequently. Emphasis on toughness, stamina, and power. Technical skills were evolving, but brawling and aggressive fighting were common. Fights often went 15 rounds. Cultural Impact Boxing was a top-tier sport in terms of popularity. Fights were widely broadcast on the radio and later on television. Champions were major national and international celebrities. The heavyweight title was considered one of the most prestigious titles in all of sports. Jersey Joe Walcott – Undisputed Champion ON THIS DAY – Ingemar Johansson

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Undefeated prospect Pryce Taylor Set for Ring Return

PRESS RELEASES / James

Working hard to join Brooklyn’s Elite list of top heavyweight boxers (L-R) – Claressa Shields & Pryce Taylor Taylor set to return to the Ring NEW YORK CITY (July 17, 2025) – Undefeated heavyweight prospect Pryce Taylor (8-0, 6 KOs) is set to return to the ring on July 26th in Detroit. After coming off his June 6th knockout win over Ed Fountain (14-8), he is aiming to join Brooklyn’s elite heavyweights in an exclusive club. “I’m the next great heavyweight out of Brooklyn,” Taylor proclaimed. “And I’m a top American heavyweight prospect today.” Achieving this rare distinction is notably challenging, as Brooklyn has produced world heavyweight champions such as Mike Tyson, Riddick Bowe, Floyd Patterson, Michael Moorer, and Shannon Briggs—all members of a special group within boxing’s premier division. Except for Briggs, each has been inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Taylor posted a 60-11 amateur record, won two New York Golden Gloves titles, and finished as heavyweight runner-up four times at the USA Boxing National Championships. As a professional prize fighter, the 28-year-old Taylor has put many of his opponents to sleep, much like his Brooklyn predecessors, including six stoppages in his eight matches, the last four in a row. “The Pryce is Right” has been training at Brooklyn’s Cops & Kids Boxing Gym with head trainer Benny Roman. Taylor also trained for three weeks in Delray Beach, Florida, with trainer Sugar Hill, focusing on movement and sparring. “It helped,” Taylor said. “There was good sparring there, and it was a good experience overall.” Taylor values the exposure from fighting on a Salita Promotions card headlined by unbeaten, undisputed heavyweight champion Claressa Shields (16-0, 3 KOs), who faces Lani Daniels (11-2-2, 1 KO) in Detroit. Previously, Taylor stopped Jerell Nettles in round two on a Shields-headlined event. “This time will be different,” Taylor pointed out. “My last fight on Claressa’s card, I was in the opening bout, off-TV, and nobody was there. I had a good seat to watch her fight, and I met her. But I’m on the main card and my fight will be streamed live on DAZN this time.” In his first scheduled 8-round bout, Taylor will take on Robert Simms (12-4-1, 3 KOs) from Saginaw, Michigan. Two fights prior, Simms defeated previously unbeaten James McKenzie Morrison (20-1-2, 18 KOs), who is the son of the late world heavyweight champion Tommy Morrison. “I’ve heard my opponent comes to fight,” Taylor concluded. “I really like fighting an opponent like that instead of the guys who don’t stand and fight. I also like fighting at this pace (7 weeks since his last fight) because I love boxing. I’ve been training for 8 rounds, but it’s not going the distance. I don’t see him lasting four rounds, if that.” “I’ve kept Pryce very busy because to become a great from Brooklyn, you better be tough, talented and able to work for it,” Pryce’s manager Keith Sullivan stated. “He has had eight fights in just nineteen months as a pro, and three fights fell out due to opponent injuries. That’s an old-school pace I am keeping him on. Not every fighter can handle that rate of fighting, Pryce eats it up. He can reach the upper echelon. It will take continued hard work. “The last time he fought on Clarissa’s card, we walked into an empty arena. I leaned into him and said, ‘Enjoy the silence, soon enough you will be entering into jeering packed arenas.’ And on July 26th that will come true.” Sullivan, a former New York State Athletic Commission Deputy Commissioner, also manages 3-time, 2-division World Champion Miyo Yoshida (18-5) and Bronx NYPD officer Nisa Rodriguez (3-1, 1 KO). Sullivan co-manages IBF Welterweight World title challenger Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (14-1, 11 KOs) and his cousin, pro-debuting middleweight Jim Donovan, alongside coach and ex-world champion Andy Lee. *******************************

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AL BERNSTEIN, CHRISTY MARTIN AND ERIC BOTTJER TO SERVE AS ALL-STAR COMMENTARY

PRESS RELEASES / James

AL BERNSTEIN, CHRISTY MARTIN, AND ERIC BOTTJER TO SERVE AS ALL-STAR COMMENTARY TEAM FOR THIS FRIDAY’S ‘LOPEZ VS. VARGAS’ EVENT FROM PECHANGA RESORT CASINO & LIVE ON MILLIONS PPV STREAMING SERVICE FRIDAY’S ‘LOPEZ VS. VARGAS’ EVENT FROM PECHANGA RESORT CASINO & LIVE ON MILLIONS PPV STREAMING SERVICE July 16, 2025 – Temecula, CA – Al Bernstein, one of boxing’s most recognizable and respected commentators for more than 40 years, will team up with fellow International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee and event promoter Christy Martin, as well as top matchmaker and broadcast professional Eric Bottjer, to form the all-star commentary team for this Friday, July 18’s “Lopez vs. Vargas,” professional boxing show from Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California and broadcast live in full on Millions PPV (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) for just USD 19.99. Presented by Christy Martin Promotions and Patrick Ortiz’s Ringside Ticket Inc., in the 10-round welterweight main event, Corona, California’s Louie Lopez (16-2-3, 5 KOs) will face undefeated Adrian Vargas (15-0-1, 10 KOs) from National City, California. And in the 10-round super welterweight co-feature, Emeka Nwokolo (15-1, 13 KOs) of Los Angeles via Benin City, Nigeria, will take on Jireh De Los Santos (15-2-2, 5 KOs) of Weslaco, Texas. Known worldwide as “The Voice of Boxing,” Al Bernstein first gained notoriety while working as an analyst (and often host) of the Top Rank Boxing Series on ESPN from 1980 to 1998. In the early 2000s, Bernstein moved to Showtime Networks and added his signature commentary voice to many of the greatest fights of the past four decades on Showtime Championship Boxing, SHOBOX: The New Generation, and over 150 pay-per-view events, including the three highest-grossing events in television history. The first American broadcaster to commentate boxing for a linear TV network in the United Kingdom, Bernstein has also served as a ringside analyst for boxing telecasts on Channel 5 and ITV, and has carved out a career of varied endeavors, including television, film, and live stage performance. Bernstein was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2012. “I’m excited to be a part of this event for several reasons,” admitted Bernstein. “I get to work with my friends: boxing legend Christy Martin, top matchmaker Eric Bottjer, and great California promoter Patrick Ortiz. Plus, returning to Pechanga Casino and Resort for this event is also a delight — I’ve announced many great boxing events from that venue. I am also excited to be working with Millions PPV for the first time, an innovative new platform for boxing and other sports and entertainment endeavors. I’m also pleased that I’ll be interacting with fans at pre-fight events and on fight night. I enjoy participating in events like these around the country, where I can interact with boxing fans. I am in the midst with of a series of these appearances for promoters all around the United States and elsewhere.” A pay-per-view favorite during boxing’s golden age, Christy Martin made a name for herself fighting on the undercards superstars such as Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Félix Trinidad, and Julio César Chávez. During a fighting career that spanned from 1989 to 2012, among her many accolades and distinctions, she held the WBC Female Super Welterweight World Championship. Considered the person who “legitimized” women’s participation in the sport of boxing, Martin was the first female boxer ever elected to the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame and was also elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2020, which was the first year that women were on the ballot. Since her retirement, Martin has been reborn as a highly respected boxing promoter and the President of Christy Martin Promotions, as well as a boxing analyst and motivational speaker. In 2021, Netflix released Untold: Deal with the Devil, a documentary chronicling Martin’s career and personal life. In 2024, it was announced that a biopic of her life, starring Sydney Sweeney, was in production. The film was shot in September and October 2024 and is scheduled for release in November 2025. “This is a thrill for me, working with two of the best in boxing,” said Christy Martin. “And the fact that this is a Christy Martin Promotions event makes it even more of a joy to be part of. Al and Eric are two of the best in the business with two lifetimes of boxing experience to share with the audience. We have a great show for the viewers and fans, and I can’t wait for fight night.” Known as one of the most influential matchmakers in boxing over the past three decades, Eric Bottjer has been involved in some of the biggest boxing matches of the modern era, working with prominent promoters such as Don King, Eddie Hearn, Cedric Kushner Promotions, and Dan Goossen. A journalism major at the University of Oregon, Bottjer has also served as a writer for notable publications, including The Ring Magazine, and has become a popular commentator on the global streaming platform DAZN. “It’s a joy to work with Al and Christy,” said Eric Bottjer. “Al is one of the best broadcasters in the history of our sport. He’s fantastic. Christy and her wife Lisa are not only my friends they are also doing the right thing in boxing, which is giving opportunities to fighters on mid-level shows that are so badly needed to advance their careers, so they can move on to bigger things eventually.” Jeremiah Gallegos will serve as the night’s ring announcer. All bouts are subject to change. The Pechanga Resort Casino is located at 45000 Pechanga Parkway in Temecula, CA. For more information, visit pechanga.com or call 877-711-2946. # # #

AL BERNSTEIN, CHRISTY MARTIN AND ERIC BOTTJER TO SERVE AS ALL-STAR COMMENTARY Read More »

3-Time World Champion is waiting

PRESS RELEASES / James

Miyo Yoshida is tired of playing Boxing’s dreaded waiting game. 3-Time World Champion Miyo Yoshida is tired of playing Boxing’s dreaded waiting game NEW YORK CITY (July 15, 2025) – Three-time, two-division World Champion Miyo Yoshida (18-5) is tired of waiting for her mandated International Boxing Federation (IBF) Bantamweight world title shot as its No. 1-rated mandatory challenger. Yoshida won the World Boxing Organization (WBO) Super Flyweight title in 2019 and 2021. On December 9, 2022, she fought in San Francisco as a late replacement on only two weeks’ notice, impressively defeating IBF Bantamweight World titleholder Ebanie Bridges (9-1) by unanimous decision over 10 rounds (99-91, 99-91, 97-93). Last October, Yoshida lost her IBF title in a controversial 10-round decision to Shurretta Metcalf (14-5-1, 2 KOs). Last Friday night, Metcalf lost the IBF belt to Cherneka Johnson (18-2, 7 KOs), the WBA Bantamweight World Champion, on the Katie Taylor-Amanda Serrano III undercard at Madison Square Garden. With the win, Johnson also scooped up the vacated World Boxing Council (WBC) and World Boxing Organization (WBO) world titles. When Metcalf defeated Yoshida, it was with highly questionable tallies of 99-91, 97-93, and 96-94. Her manager, Attorney Keith Sullivan, appealed the result to the IBF, arguing that Yoshida’s accurate jabs and higher punch connection rate should have earned her the win. COMPUBOX statistics strongly supported Sullivan’s appeal: Yoshida out-landed Metcalf in eight of the 10 rounds by a margin of 96 to 64 in total connects, including a 49-17 edge in jabs and 30 to 16 in punches landed to the body. Yoshida’s defensive skills were also on display, with Metcalf landing just nine percent of her overall punches thrown. The IBF ruled in January that Yoshida was its No. 1 mandatory challenger, requiring the titleholder to defend against Miyo by this October. Yoshida’s promoter, Lou DiBella, got her back into the win column against a formidable opponent on February 1, when she defeated Beata Dudek via 10-round unanimous decision (99-91, 97-93, 96-94). “Miyo is a three-time world champ and a trailblazing symbol for Japanese women as an athlete and single mom. I applaud the IBF for recognizing that Yoshida deserves the opportunity to regain her belt. We will continue to push for Miyo to get her title shot as soon as possible, and I am confident that we can work out a deal with MVP. They are in the business of making the best fights in women’s boxing. Undisputed Champ Cherneka Johnson vs. Miyo is a terrific match,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Lou has done a great job keeping Miyo active and creating great opportunities for her. The time is finally here for Miyo’s title match to be scheduled. Fortunately, Jake and Nakisa are helping to change the landscape for women in boxing under their MVP banner,” stated Miyo’s manager, Keith Sullivan. “Congratulations to Cherneka, who fought a great fight and made history. The styles of Miyo and Johnson will make for an exciting, fan-friendly fight. We have two promoters who firmly support women’s boxing, so I am confident we will get that title fight scheduled as soon as possible,” concluded Sullivan. From ringside Friday night, Miyo said, “Johnson had the perfect fight plan. I respect her, but we’ll have a more intense fistfight. So, let’s finally get my mandatory title fight scheduled. We’ll see in the ring who deserves to raise the belt as the IBF bantamweight champion.” Miyo Yoshida, known as the “Fighting Single Mother” in Japan, is a respected role model and was the recipient of Ring Magazine’s “Most Inspirational Female Fighter” award in 2023. She is among just 23 female world champions from Japan and only the sixth to hold world titles in multiple weight classes. Sullivan, a former New York State Athletic Commission Deputy Commissioner, also manages undefeated Brooklyn heavyweight Pryce Taylor (8-0, 6 KOs) and Bronx NYPD officer Nisa Rodriguez (3-1, 1 KO). Sullivan co-manages IBF Welterweight World title challenger Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (14-1, 11 KOs) and his cousin, pro-debuting middleweight Jim Donovan, alongside coach and ex-world champion Andy Lee. INFORMATION X : @MiyoBledog Instagram : @miyo_yoshida_ Facebook : /miyoyoshida

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