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Sep 08 2023

Fury looks Obese at the press conference of Fury vs Ngannou Showdown

Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou recently came face to face for the first time since their upcoming Fury vs Ngannou ten-round professional fight was confirmed for October 28. The event kicked off with a red carpet press conference in London, where the two fighters exchanged words and posed for photos. Notably, Fury opted to go shirtless for the photo opportunity. Fury, often referred to as 'The Gypsy King,' is the clear favorite in this Fury vs Ngannou crossover contest. It's hard to find anyone in the fighting world, be it fighters or pundits, who is picking Ngannou to pull off the upset, especially given that this will be Ngannou's first appearance in the ring following his successful UFC championship run. Fury, who describes himself as a behemoth, typically weighs in the range of 260-270 pounds for his fights. His heaviest weight in his career was during his trilogy bout with Deontay Wilder, where he tipped the scales at a staggering 277 pounds. Notably, Fury experienced a significant weight gain during his hiatus from the sport in 2016 and 2017 before making a remarkable comeback to become a two-time heavyweight champion. Fans who got a glimpse of the first face-off between Fury and Ngannou took to social media to share their observations. Some remarked that Fury appeared to weigh over 300 pounds, while others suggested that he seemed out of shape and may not be taking his training seriously for what many expect to be an easy victory. In contrast, Ngannou, who remained dressed in a suit during the press conference, has a reputation for looking powerful and fit. For his most recent MMA bout, where he secured a unanimous decision victory over Cyril Gane, he weighed in at 255 pounds. The much-anticipated Fury vs Ngannou showdown is scheduled for October 28 in Riyadh. Fans can expect more details on the Fury vs Ngannou event and the undercard to be announced soon.
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Sep 07 2023

Nina Agdal Files Lawsuit Against Dillon Danis Over Online Harassment Ahead of Logan Paul Fight

Nina Agdal, Logan Paul's fiancée, has taken legal action against Dillon Danis due to his relentless online harassment. Despite their upcoming boxing match scheduled for October 14, the situation has escalated into an ugly feud even before they step into the ring. In the lead-up to the fight, the former UFC fighter has directed his online attacks towards Agdal, bombarding her with hundreds of messages on social media platforms, including X (formerly known as Twitter). One particularly offensive post featured a sexually explicit image of Agdal, which has prompted her to file a lawsuit against Danis. According to TMZ, Agdal's legal complaint cites humiliation, emotional distress, and damage to her reputation as a result of Danis's actions. She alleges that Danis has posted about her approximately 250 times in recent weeks, with his explicit post being a clear violation of federal and state laws. The lawsuit contends:
"Later that day, Danis reposted the explicit photograph in order to maximise the number of views it would receive."
TMZ further reports that Agdal is seeking unspecified damages but not less than $150,000 per violation of federal law that prohibits the unauthorized sharing of intimate images. In addition to the lawsuit, she has also sought a restraining order against Danis. Danis acknowledged the lawsuit on social media, stating:
"Nina Adgel has filed a massive lawsuit against me. She filed a restraining order against me and is seeking prison time, so the fight is in jeopardy if I’m in jail. "This is actually wild but I won’t stop f*** the system come get me. Logan Paul is a dead man walking."
It's important to note that the lawsuit doesn't explicitly mention jeopardizing the fight or seeking prison time, contrary to Danis's claims in his social media post, as clarified by a community note on X.
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Sep 07 2023

Frank Warren Pushes for Dubois vs. Usyk Bout to Be Declared a No-Contest in Pursuit of Rematch

Boxing promoter Frank Warren has initiated an appeal to overturn the result of Daniel Dubois' world heavyweight title loss to Oleksandr Usyk. During their bout in Poland, Dubois managed to knock down Usyk in the fifth round, but the hit was ruled a low blow. This decision allowed Usyk, the Ukrainian boxer, a recovery period, after which he defeated the London-based Dubois in the ninth round. The World Boxing Association (WBA) acknowledged receiving the appeal. Dubois' team has formally appealed the result of the August 26 bout where he faced a knockout defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in Wroclaw, Poland. Now that the WBA has the appeal, it will be reviewed in accordance with our regulations. All decisions regarding this matter will be taken under WBA guidelines and announced properly.
“The WBA, now that it has received a formal appeal from Dubois’ team, will proceed with a review as per the regulations. “Any decision made regarding this situation will be made under WBA rules and communicated in a timely and appropriate manner.”
Luis Pabon, the referee from Puerto Rico, provided Usyk with nearly four minutes of recovery time after the controversial blow. Dubois and his team maintain the hit was legitimate, as it seemed to connect at the champion's belt line. After the match, Dubois, feeling exhausted and defeated by Usyk, did not participate in the post-fight press event. During this event, both Warren and Dubois' coach, Don Charles, expressed their disagreements with the referee's call. Regardless of the WBA's final decision on the match's outcome, Dubois and his team are hopeful that, at the very least, a direct rematch will be sanctioned to address the prevailing disputes.
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Sep 07 2023

'I Was Kinda Disappointed … That It Took This Long For Me To Get My Recognition' - Crawford Shared His Thoughts After Becoming 2x Undisputed Champion

Following his triumphant win against Errol Spence Jr., Terence Crawford confessed to experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. The victory, which took place two months ago at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, saw Crawford from Omaha, Nebraska, become the undisputed welterweight champion after halting Spence in the ninth round. In a recent conversation, Crawford expressed that, post-fight, his feelings varied from sheer joy to a sense of relief. Despite his victory over Spence, he also mentioned feeling “disappointed.” His sentiment stems from his belief that the recognition he rightfully deserved seemed to have been delayed in his career. As he approaches his 36th birthday in September, Crawford, boasting a record of 40-0 with 31 KOs, has often faced skepticism regarding his true stature in the welterweight division. Additionally, the politics surrounding boxing seemed to have kept him from landing significant matches. Discussing his emotions, Crawford shared with Joe Rogan:
“That’s what my feelings was. A lot of people were like, ‘Man, you didn’t look too happy after you won. I didn’t see the excitement in you.’ I was like, man, I was happy. I was happy I had to prove myself to the world how great I knew I was. But at the same time, I was kinda disappointed at the same time that it took this long for me to get my recognition, for me to get a big marquee fight at this status, at 35 years old.”
Crawford went on to detail his long pursuit of a match against Manny Pacquiao, which spanned almost half a decade before his bout with Spence. Being a champion for nearly a decade, Crawford lamented not always securing the big challenges he sought after. However, he takes pride in his accomplishments, being the first to achieve undisputed status in both junior welterweight and welterweight divisions during the four-belt era. Reflecting on the aftermath of the Spence fight, Crawford mentioned:
“You know, when you go in the back room and everybody want to see the excitement and I was just like, ‘I got that off my back.’ It was a sign of relief.”
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Sep 07 2023

'Deontay is prepared, violent, focused and ready to put a hole in him [Joshua]' - Says Malik Scott About Wilder vs Joshua Showdown

Deontay Wilder and Anthony Joshua are continuing discussions about a potential Wilder vs Joshua showdown in early 2024. The anticipated bout, orchestrated by Saudi Arabia, has been in the pipeline for most of this year. While there's been no formal confirmation, both camps are stressing that the Wilder vs Joshua fight remains a priority. Wilder, now 37, hasn't stepped into the ring since his impressive first-round defeat of Robert Helenius in October 2022. This came after two losses to Tyson Fury. On the other hand, Joshua has kept busy after his loss to Oleksandr Usyk, securing a win against Jermaine Franklin and delivering a seventh-round knockout to Helenius within the year. Malik Scott, Wilder's coach, is unwavering in his belief that Wilder will defeat Joshua early in the Wilder vs Joshua bout. Speaking to Little Giant Boxing, Scott conveyed his intent on disrupting Joshua's winning streak. He said, It’s a great fight. We all know who my pick is, and we mean them no good over there. I’m trying to stop what they're doing over there, and that’s continuing to win fights. My job is to make sure that Deontay is prepared, violent, focused, and ready to put a hole in him. And that’s what he’s ready to do. I truly, truly believe that’s what’s going to happen.
“It’s a great fight. We all know who my pick is, and we mean them no good over there. I’m tryna stop what they doing over there, and that’s continuing to win fights. My job is to make sure that Deontay is prepared, violent, focused and ready to put a hole in him. And that’s what he’s ready to do. I truly, truly believe that’s what’s gonna happen.”
Scott also highlighted Wilder's impressive record, pointing out the 'Bronze Bomber's' 42 knockouts. He believes Joshua's movement, or the lack of it, will make him an easy target, leading to the 43rd knockout for Wilder. Scott pointedly remarked, He’s too big to get out of the way of anything. Come on man, Robert Helenius was hitting you at will with the jab.
“He’s too big to get out the way of anything. Come on man, Robert Helenius was hitting you at will with the jab.”
While Wilder seems eager to dive into this much-anticipated Wilder vs Joshua match, it's known that his team might consider another bout in the meantime. On the flip side, Joshua's representatives have implied that if an agreement isn't reached soon, Joshua might schedule a fight in December.
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Sep 07 2023

'He’s [Ngannou] a Tough, Tough Guy' - Frank Warren Warns Tyson Fury Prior Fury vs Ngannou Bout

Frank Warren, Tyson Fury's promoter, has emphasized the need for the "Gypsy King" to be at his absolute best when he squares off against ex-UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou. The much-anticipated fight is set to light up Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on October 28, though Fury's WBC title will not be at stake. The contest, tagged "Battle Of The Baddest," is a headline attraction for the Riyadh Festival. As two stalwarts of their respective sports collide, global interest is inevitable. Speaking on the White and Jordan show, Warren highlighted the credentials of both fighters: “They’re both the best of their respective disciplines." While Warren acknowledges the prowess and boxing prowess of Fury, he has reservations due to Ngannou's sheer punching power.
“I don’t expect Ngannou to out-box Tyson but I know that he’s a tremendous puncher. He’s a roughhouse... he’s a tough, tough guy."
Warren believes the only path to victory for Ngannou would be a knockout, a feasible outcome given Ngannou's reputation as the world's hardest puncher. Warren stated:
“You know that [Ngannou] is going to come throwing bombs."
For the safety of the fighters, he underscored the need for a vigilant referee to enforce boxing regulations strictly. Elaborating on Ngannou's potential strategy, Warren said,
“He’s going to have to throw bombs and put Tyson out of his stride."
He also pointed out that one solid punch could dramatically alter the course of the fight. To underscore this point, he referred to Daniel Dubois's recent bout with Oleksandr Usyk. In reaction to Simon Jordan dismissing the event as 'rubbish', Warren defended its significance, stating:
“It’s not rubbish, it’s two guys getting in the ring and you’ve got to have balls to get in the ring."
Warren highlighted that combat is not new to Ngannou. Expecting a win for Fury, he remains cautious, concluding that the bout promises to be thrilling. Warren also responded to suggestions that the fight is primarily for monetary purposes. Comparing boxing to any profession, he explained that everyone works for monetary compensation. Asserting the magnitude of the event, Warren hinted at significant developments over the coming weeks.
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Sep 04 2023

'The main thing and good thing is people are getting found out' - Says IBF World Bantamweight Champion Ebanie Bridges About Alycia Baumgardner VADA Test Report

IBF bantamweight champion, Ebanie Bridges, has shared her thoughts on the recent drug-related controversy enveloping Alycia Baumgardner. Rumors began circulating after Baumgardner was reported to have tested positive for certain prohibited substances following her rematch win against Christina Linardatou in July. Specifically, mesterolone and methenolone metabolites were identified in her test. The repercussions of this discovery could be significant for Baumgardner, who currently is the undisputed super featherweight world champion. It's expected that all major boxing bodies, including the WBO, IBF, WBA, and WBC, will launch their own probes into this matter. Having a background in bodybuilding, Bridges possesses insight into the substances that have been pinpointed in Baumgardner's test. She explained to Lucky Block:
“Because the drug testing is so sensitive now, people are getting popped a lot more, whether it be through speckles of contamination or it's because they've done a f------ cycle, and they've timed the detection wrong. Do you know what I mean? Whatever it is. The main thing and good thing is people are getting found out." “That stack that she's taken is a very common bodybuilding stack. I was an ex-bodybuilder, and it's a very common bodybuilding stack for women, so it's going to be a hard one for her to explain, but if she is innocent, then I hope she gets justice, but if not, then I hope her opponents get justice. all I want is the truth. And in time it should come out.”
Being away from competitive boxing since the last year, Bridges is now keen to re-enter the ring.
“My priority right now is to bash some b!tches. I want to defend my belt because I've put my life on hold waiting to box. I can't travel. I can't eat, I can't go home and see my family. I can't do all these things because I'm in camp and always training, and always making sure I'm staying fit and ready, so I can get a fight. It's very hard,” Bridges said. “I think I'm deserving of a voluntary after not getting a voluntary and being forced to fight my mandatory straight away, and also coming off an injury. If I was to fight in America, I'd like to fight Avril Mathie because: I think it would be a great fight for both of us. It's a fight that will bring a lot of attention, a lot of eyes on the sport. She's a swimwear model as well, and she's got a great record, she's a tough fighter, Australian, she comes to fight, and I know that she'll come into the fight wanting to win, and I think it would just be a really good fight got women's boxing to bring eyes on it, and to show two females going hard at it. “I don't need boxing to make money. But that’s not the point, I have a bigger goal which is to be undisputed, and that keeps me focused on what I want to do, and that keeps me doing all these sacrifices day in and day out. Being away from my family, not going traveling with my friends, not eating out for dinners and stuff like that, because I have to keep weight. It’s f------ because the amount of times that I wanted to go back home but I can't afford that time out. I’m frustrated.”
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Sep 04 2023

Brian McIntyre 'BoMac' Arrested at Manchester Airport!

In a surprising turn of events, Brian 'BoMac' McIntyre, the acclaimed boxing trainer behind Chris Eubank Jr.'s recent triumph over Liam Smith, got arrested at Manchester Airport. The incident unfolded after the security personnel reportedly detected a firearm inside his luggage. The 53-year-old McIntyre was in preparation to board a flight to Atlanta on Sunday morning when this unexpected incident occurred. His baggage, which was routinely scanned, allegedly revealed not just a firearm but also an associated magazine and rounds of ammunition. Upon this discovery, the UK Border Force swiftly intervened. The seriousness of the situation escalated to a point where armed police officials had to make their presence felt in Terminal 2 of Manchester Airport. It was here, amidst the passengers waiting in the departure lounge, that McIntyre, affectionately known to many in the boxing world as 'BoMac', was taken into custody. He is now under investigation on grounds of suspected firearm possession. This incident has taken many by surprise, primarily because just the previous evening, McIntyre had played a pivotal role in Eubank Jr's impressive victory against Liam Smith at the renowned Manchester Arena. The high-profile rematch garnered significant attention, making the events of the subsequent morning even more shocking. It's essential to highlight McIntyre's reputation in the boxing community. Apart from mentoring Eubank Jr, he is also known for his association with the two times undisputed world champion, Terence Crawford. His expertise and guidance have played instrumental roles in the success stories of these athletes. While the sporting world reels from this news, the specifics and circumstances leading to the firearm's presence in McIntyre's luggage remain unclear. The team representing Eubank Jr. has been approached for a statement regarding the situation but has chosen to remain silent at this juncture. Sky Sports News, which has been closely following this development, also reached out to the Greater Manchester Police for an official statement or comment, awaiting their response. As the story unfolds, the boxing community and fans worldwide eagerly await more details, hoping for clarity on an incident that could potentially impact the careers and reputations of some of the sport's most prominent figures.
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Sep 04 2023

Tyson Fury, If Jon Jones Gets Hold of You He is Pulling Limbs off - Tony Bellew issued a strong cautionary message to Tyson Fury

Former cruiserweight world champion, Tony Bellew, has issued a strong cautionary message to Tyson Fury regarding his upcoming fight against a formidable opponent. Fury is scheduled to face former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in a crossover boxing match, a decision that has garnered criticism from various quarters. John Fury, Tyson's father, has expressed his desire to see Tyson engage in another crossover fight, this time in the MMA octagon against mixed martial artist Jon Jones. John believes Tyson's skill set would translate well in both boxing and MMA.
“Tyson isn’t the best in the world for nothing. If he crosses over, the Tyson I know, he can get in the octagon with anybody. I think you’ll see that with Jon Jones. I want to see that with Jon Jones. I don’t want to see a boxing match, I want to see both men with an all-in battle royale and let the best man at the end of it put their hands up and say I’m the best man, the hardest man and the baddest man on the planet. That would be my plan [to see that fight next]. Go out with a bang, let the world see you’re the real deal in all walks of life not just a boxing match.”
Bellew, however, has delivered a stern warning to Fury, advising him against taking on Jon Jones under MMA rules. Bellew has previously described Jones as a "monster" and emphasized that no boxer would stand a chance against him in an MMA setting. Bellew cautioned Fury that even if he believes he possesses wrestling skills and strength, Jones's expertise and power would make him extremely dangerous. Bellew predicted that Jones could potentially inflict serious injuries on Fury if he were to engage in an MMA fight with him.
“No boxer has any chance whatsoever against [Jon Jones]. As soon as somebody comes at you and starts doing this (crouches down), just hold your hands up and say ‘I’m good’, I don’t need any of this. Tyson Fury, mate I know you think you can wrestle, I know you think you’re strong and heavy, if he [Jon Jones] gets hold of you he is pulling limbs off. You’re going to lose your ankle your knee, your arm, you’re going to lose something. Jon Jones is a freak of nature, the guys a monster.”
The upcoming crossover fight between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou is set to take place on October 28 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Despite the outcome affecting both fighters' professional records, Fury's WBC title will not be on the line for this bout.
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Sep 04 2023

'Bear in mind he's got Mike Tyson' - Says John Fury About the Upcoming Fury vs Ngannou Showdown

John Fury, father of WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, holds a different perspective on the upcoming boxing match between his son and MMA veteran Francis Ngannou. Ngannou, a former UFC heavyweight champion, is set to make his professional boxing debut against Tyson Fury in a non-title bout on October 28 in Saudi Arabia. While many expect a one-sided contest, John Fury believes the fight will be more competitive than anticipated. Expressing his respect for Ngannou, John Fury acknowledged his status as a world champion in MMA. He believes that Ngannou is taking the challenge seriously and predicts that he will bring his best efforts to the ring against Tyson Fury. John Fury doesn't foresee his son emerging from the match without some significant battle scars, stating that Tyson might face injuries like a broken leg or arm. He emphasized that the compensation for the fight is important due to the anticipated intensity of the bout.
"I hold him in the highest esteem and the highest regard. He's world champion at his game, he's taking on the best in the world, taking it seriously and I do believe he's going to bring the smoke."
To prepare for the fight, Ngannou has enlisted the assistance of former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson as his head trainer. John Fury holds a great deal of admiration for Mike Tyson and acknowledges naming his own son after the legendary boxer. He believes that Mike Tyson's presence in Ngannou's corner will contribute significantly to his training and approach. John Fury highlighted the dynamics at play, suggesting that Ngannou's desire to impress Mike Tyson and Tyson Fury's strong ego create a backdrop for a fierce contest. He emphasized the value of having Mike Tyson as a mentor in Ngannou's training camp, expressing confidence that Mike will provide valuable insights into boxing techniques and strategies.
"Bear in mind he's got Mike Tyson there and he wants to impress Mike Tyson. And then Tyson [Fury] has got an ego as big as Morecambe so the stage is set for a battle royal." "He couldn't have a better mentor in his camp than the great Mike Tyson, I'm sure Mike will show him the boxing moves he needs."
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Sep 04 2023

'This could be career curtains' - Says Carl Froch After Smith vs Eubank 2 Fight

Carl Froch has advised Liam Smith, the former WBO light-middleweight champion, to consider retirement following his recent knockout loss to Chris Eubank Jr. Froch praised Eubank's performance, stating that it was the best he had ever seen from him. The rematch between the two British boxers surprised many, as Smith, who had previously defeated Eubank with a fourth-round knockout, found himself knocked down in the fourth round and eventually stopped by the referee in the 10th round. Eubank showcased his skills by maintaining a sharp performance throughout the fight. He effectively used a solid jab and incorporated uppercuts to keep Smith on his toes. Froch, speaking on his podcast "Froch on Fighting," commended Eubank's performance while acknowledging Smith's struggles.
“That was probably the best I have ever seen him against a really, really bad version of Liam Smith. I can’t take credit away from Chris Eubank Jr because he performed really well, but unfortunately for Smith that could be the end of the road for him.”
Froch pointed out that Smith seemed uncomfortable at the 160-pound weight class and expressed doubt about his ability to drop down to 154 pounds or move up to the super middleweight division. He observed that Smith's weight challenges played a role in his defeat and suggested that this loss might signal the end of Smith's career.
“I thought he was comfortable at 160. He obviously isn’t. He’s took 42lbs off so he can’t go down to 154, he’s gunna have to stay at middle, and he can’t go up to super middleweight, he’s not big enough. But at middle you’ve just seen what happened to him. He can’t do it.”
Froch later stated in an interview on talkSPORT Boxing that he believes Smith's career is finished. He cited Smith's difficulties in finding the right weight class and expressed concern about his prospects moving forward.
“This could be career curtains. He’s had a fantastic career. He’s 35 years old, he got badly beaten because he couldn’t do the weight so I think that could be the end. “I think Liam Smith looks shot and finished at 35 years old. He can’t do 160lbs, he’s 35 years-old had a career at 154lb so if he can’t do 160 what’s he going to do? Step up to middleweight, well he’s not big enough. So for me his career is over.”
The boxing community widely viewed the fight as one-sided and turned their attention to Eubank's future opponents.
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Sep 03 2023

What's Next For Chris Eubank Jr After Smith vs Eubank 2?

After Chris Eubank Jr.'s impressive victory over Liam Smith in their Smith vs Eubank rematch, Conor Benn took a swipe at him, boldly stating he'd defeat him in just four rounds. Eubank Jr., fresh off his victory, is keen to face Gennady Golovkin next and also threw challenges to both Conor Benn and Kell Brook. Eubank Jr. silenced skeptics with a commanding performance in Manchester, securing two knockdowns and a 10th-round stoppage. This was a comeback from his unexpected knockout defeat to Smith earlier this year. With both fighters now having a decisive victory each, the possibility of a Smith vs Eubank third match to settle their intense rivalry is up in the air. Eubank Jr. has long expressed a desire to face Golovkin. The two were on a collision course in 2016, but Golovkin ended up facing Brook in London. Tom Loeffler, Golovkin's promoter, had mentioned in January that a UK showdown with Eubank Jr. was on the table. At 41, Golovkin has been out of the ring for a year, following a loss to the acclaimed Canelo Alvarez. His last fight before that was a defense of his middleweight titles in Japan, where he also clinched the WBA title by defeating Ryota Murata. Eubank Jr.'s aim to fight Golovkin revolves around those belts. However, Golovkin recently vacated his unified titles and currently has no scheduled matches. Eubank Jr. voiced his eagerness to Sky Sports, stating:
“Listen, I want to fight Triple G. I don’t know where he is right now, but wherever you are Gennady, you’ve been holding onto them belts for too long. I want to take one, so let’s get that on if we can. 100 per cent.”
Previously, a bout between Eubank Jr. and Benn was in the works, but it was canceled due to Benn's failed drug tests. With Benn now cleared to fight in the UK, this match seems likely. Eubank Jr. is also eyeing a potential match with Brook, stating:
“There’s some big names out there, I see a few of these guys in the crowd. I’m coming for you Conor, I’m coming for you. I’m coming for you Kell, I’m coming for you. Anyone else who wants it, we’re going to put on a show for the fans, that’s for sure.”
Benn responded to Eubank Jr.'s callout, saying on social media:
“Not impressed... it’s curtains in four rounds if you fight me at 160lbs.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn chimed in on the potential bout, tweeting:
“Eubank v Benn..absolutely massive.”
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Sep 03 2023

Conor Benn Is Not Impressed by Chris Eubank Jr's Performance in Smith vs Eubank 2

Conor Benn, a notable welterweight contender, was left unimpressed despite Chris Eubank Jr.'s decisive victory over Liam Smith in their Smith vs Eubank 2 rematch. Previously, in Smith vs Eubank first bout, Smith had floored Eubank in just four rounds. However, the Smith vs Eubank 2 rematch told a different story in Manchester. While Eubank seemed to control each round, knocking Smith down twice and compelling the referee to end the Smith vs Eubank 2 match, Benn remained skeptical. A potential face-off between Benn and Eubank had been in the cards last October. Still, plans went awry when Benn tested positive for a prohibited substance, a development that has kept him tied in a legal tussle with the British Boxing Board of Control and UKAD. Benn speculated that Smith's subpar performance was due to a leg injury. He commented:
“Smith made him look good. What, it takes you ten rounds to dispatch of someone who’s got a broken leg? I’m not really impressed.”
as reported by Talk Sport and No Smoke Sport. He further expressed his desire to settle their unfinished business with Eubank. Benn added:
“You could definitely see that it was an injury, that’s all that was. 100 percent, you could tell Smith wasn’t on his game. His punches lacked precision, and he couldn't evade the oncoming blows."
He critiqued Eubank's strategy, saying:
“I didn’t think it was an impressive performance. If you’ve got a wounded man in there, you should take charge and finish it. If my opponent was injured and unable to fight back, I'd ensure they wouldn't last the round."
Although Benn acknowledged that Eubank's performance had improved, he firmly believed Smith's condition played a major role in that. Benn confidently stated his strategy if he were to face Eubank:
“I’d get hold of him [Eubank] within four, I’d go on the offensive right from the start. I'm ready for that match, anytime."
Furthermore, Benn emphasized his willingness to ascend two weight classes to battle Eubank.
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Sep 02 2023

Chris Eubank Jr. Stops Liam Smith and Gets His Revenge at Smith vs Eubank 2 Bout

In a stunning turnaround from last Smith vs Eubank 2 encounter, Chris Eubank Jr. decisively overcame his past defeat, delivering a masterclass against Liam Smith. Eubank, making a return to the Manchester's AO Arena where he faced a shocking fourth-round defeat seven months earlier, commanded the ring and secured a tenth-round stoppage win. Reflecting on his victory IN Smith vs Eubank 2, Eubank commented:
"It was essential. There are so many big matches out there that I need to be a part of."
After the surprising setback in January, Eubank took some strategic moves, primarily hiring Brian ‘Bomac’ McIntyre, known for training the renowned Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford. This partnership could well make McIntyre the 2023 Trainer of the Year contender. Interestingly, Smith’s multiple postponements, due to injuries, gave Eubank extended preparation time. Unfortunately for Smith, this seemed to disadvantage him.
"What transpired tonight was what should’ve occurred in January,"
Eubank recalled, indicating that his earlier loss was a mere fluke. From the get-go, Eubank dominated Smith vs Eubank 2 bout. He kept Smith on the defensive, mastering both jabs and uppercuts. Smith's attempts at offense were constantly thwarted, and by the fourth round, he faced a setback reminiscent of Eubank's earlier defeat, being sent to the canvas with a swift uppercut. Rounds continued in Eubank’s favor, with Smith's responses weakening, culminating in a tenth-round stoppage. For Smith, the evening marked the end of a successful spell, with this being his first defeat after four consecutive victories.
“From the beginning to the end, everything just didn't go my way. Chris was on top of his game. That's the story. When I win, I celebrate. When I lose, I accept it."
Eubank's control of the Smith vs Eubank 2 match was evident in the punch stats, with him landing 33.3% of his total punches, while Smith managed just 25%. In a lighthearted moment, Eubank remarked, “I threw so many punches, my trunks’ lettering came off." But he also took the time to acknowledge Smith's spirit, saying,
"Liam is a warrior. Much respect to him and his team."
Eubank is now setting sights on future challenges, mentioning fighters like Conor Benn and Kell Brook. However, one name stands out for Eubank — Gennadiy Golovkin, commonly known as Triple G. Though a match between them was planned once but never materialized, Eubank seems eager to rekindle that possibility, stating:
“I really wish to face Triple G. If he’s available, we should make it happen.”
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Sep 03 2023

Smith vs Eubank 2 a Knockout Night: Cullen and Clarke Shine in Manchester Showdown

Boxing fans were treated to a riveting evening of action-packed bouts in Smith vs Eubank 2, with Jack Cullen and Frazer Clarke stealing the limelight with their extraordinary performances. In the buildup to the much-anticipated Smith vs Eubank 2 fight, Jack Cullen took center stage against Mark Heffron. The stakes were high, with both contenders setting their sights on the coveted British and Commonwealth super-middleweight titles. Cullen, demonstrating immense skill and precision, landed a powerful left-hook on Heffron in the third round. The punch sent Heffron spiraling to the canvas, and though he tried to recover, the impact was too much. Overwhelmed with emotion, Cullen reflected on his childhood dream of achieving such a title, and the realization of that dream was evident in his jubilation. This match proved that in boxing, moments can be transformative, with dreams realized in mere seconds. On the same Smith vs Eubank 2 night, Frazer Clarke, Great Britain's 2020 Olympic Bronze medalist, also captivated the audience with his performance against David Allen. The match was set at Manchester's AO Arena, with both fighters showcasing sheer determination and skill. Clarke, tall and dominant, used his left jab effectively, keeping Allen on the defensive for most of the early rounds. Allen, not to be outdone, tried to adopt a more defensive stance, but Clarke's relentless offense put him on the back foot. However, the sixth round brought tension and drama. Clarke, after being penalized for low blows, shifted his strategy, targeting Allen's head. This sudden change in tactic took Allen by surprise. As the round concluded, Allen's discomfort was evident, and upon returning to his corner, it was clear he couldn't continue. Later, it was revealed he had suffered a perforated eardrum. This setback marked the end of Allen's four-fight winning streak, while Clarke, continuing his unbeaten journey, advanced his record to an impressive 8-0. The evening was a testament to the unpredictable nature of boxing. Each match, each round, holds the potential for surprise and drama. As both Cullen and Clarke move ahead in their careers, they'll undoubtedly look back on this night as a pivotal moment in their journey.
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Sep 02 2023

Adam Azim Goes Ten-Round Distance Again, Outclasses Aram Fanyan

Adam Azim showcased his endurance by fighting through a ten-round bout for the second time in a row. After ending a consecutive six-fight knockout spree seven months prior, Azim was tested again, this time by Ukraine's Aram Fanyan. By the end of their match, the judges favored Azim with scores of 100-90, 99-91, and 98-92. This bout, featured on Sky Sports Box Office, took place at the AO Arena in Manchester, England. With this win, Azim's record improved to 9-0, with 6 of those being KOs. Earlier in the year, he had marked his first ten-round distance bout by outclassing Santos Reyes at the OVO Arena Wembley. A scheduled bout in June had been deferred because of an infection Azim had from a training injury. Despite the delay, he celebrated his 21st birthday and returned to the ring as planned. During the fight, Azim maintained his stance, keeping Fanyan at bay, who was constantly looking for opportunities with his signature left hook. While Fanyan managed to land a few good punches, Azim remained largely unshaken. Instead, he focused on his own strength, emphasizing his powerful jabs and dodging Fanyan's attempts. The bout had its intense moments. In the third round, Fanyan's left hook had Azim slightly wobbly, but he recovered swiftly. As the rounds progressed, Azim was cautious, avoiding any undue risks, especially given Fanyan's deceptive power. There were several noteworthy moments, including Fanyan's attempts to overpower Azim with wild right punches and Azim's continuous effort to leverage his jab. By the eighth round, both fighters intensified their strategies. Azim amplified his offense, while Fanyan used his left hook to push back. The ninth round had its dramatic moment when the referee warned Fanyan for an improper move, leading to some discomfort for Azim, though it was short-lived. Both boxers displayed their skills, but it was Azim who had the upper hand. With this bout, Fanyan's impressive ten-fight winning streak came to an end, and his record adjusted to 23-2 with 5 KOs.
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Sep 02 2023

Mikaela Mayer Wants To Fight Natasha Jonas For IBF Welterweight Championship After a Win at Smith vs Eubank 2

Mikaela Mayer, after her latest win in Manchester against former European champion Silvia Bortot, has her eyes set on a match against IBF welterweight champion Natasha Jonas. Mayer's performance stood out during the Smith vs Eubank 2 event, with her securing victory in all ten rounds according to referee Steve Gray's evaluation. Mayer, who formerly held the super-featherweight champion title, recently shifted to the super-lightweight category. Now, she's focused on climbing the ranks in the welterweight division. She mentioned that she's gearing up to move from 130 to 147, acknowledging the challenges of the transition after maintaining her former weight for years. Mayer is confident in her readiness to face Jonas. Adding to the anticipation, Jonas, who became a two-weight world champion in July by defeating Kandi Wyatt, was present during Mayer's recent match. From the ringside, she too showed enthusiasm for a potential match against the 2016 Rio Olympian Mayer.
“I’m ready for that fight, yeah,” Mayer told Sky Sports post-fight. “I’ve been preparing my body to go up, it’s a big jump going from 130 to 147. It takes time to do what I did [by] keeping my body down at that weight for so many years, but I’ve already been working on it and I’m prepared to go to 147 and take on Natasha Jonas right away. “That’s definitely the one I want next, and from what I hear she’s game and wants it too.”
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Sep 02 2023

'It’s just about adjusting to a new weight. No overhaul needed.' - Jermell Charlo is Sticking to his Routine

The old adage goes, "If it's not broken, don't fix it," and that seems to be Jermell Charlo's mantra. With a commendable track record that could well pave his way to the Hall of Fame, Charlo has consistently proven his mettle in the junior middleweight category, boasting impressive victories and multiple title streaks. However, come September 30th, Charlo is set to momentarily leave his familiar domain of 154 pounds to square off with Canelo Alvarez. But the leap of two weight classes and an additional 14 pounds doesn’t seem to faze the boxer from Houston. There's no denying that facing Canelo presents a significant step up in competition for Charlo. But despite the mounting pressure and the monumental challenge ahead, Charlo remains unfazed. Many speculate he should restructure his training for this bout, but Charlo dismisses such suggestions. Speaking candidly on Cigar Talk, Charlo remarked:
“Maintain the routine that has been working. It’s just about adjusting to a new weight. No overhaul needed.”
His belief in consistency and familiarity as his winning formula isn't unfounded. Over the years, especially in the 154-pound category, Charlo has demonstrated a consistent strategy, albeit with minor tweaks when necessary. For instance, his initial face-off with Brian Castano resulted in a split decision draw, only for Charlo to turn the tables in their subsequent bout. Similarly, in 2018, Charlo faced a setback against Tony Harrison but bounced back with a decisive victory in their rematch. Ultimately, it's Charlo's unwavering faith in his preparations and his relentless dedication that fuels his confidence, irrespective of who he's up against or the weight class. As Charlo puts it:
“The key isn't to overcomplicate things. Commit, work tirelessly, and remain focused on the goal.”
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Sep 02 2023

'Spence Activated His Rematch But We Don’t Have a Date' - Bomac Confirms!

Terence Crawford and Errol Spence are reportedly gearing up for a rematch. Bryan ‘Bomac’ McIntyre, Crawford’s coach, recently disclosed to Pro Boxing Fans that Spence has invoked the rematch clause. Although confirmed, the exact date of the match remains uncertain. It could potentially be scheduled in the last part of this year or early in 2024.
“Spence activated his rematch,” said McIntyre following a question. “That’s confirmed, but we don’t have a date and stuff like that.”
While the location hasn't been finalized, the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, which hosted their initial bout on July 29, is a top contender, with the MGM Grand Garden Arena also in the mix. The forthcoming face-off is expected to be at junior middleweight (154-pound cap). Previously, Spence has mentioned his struggle to meet the welterweight limit, hinting that his initial bout with Crawford would mark his final fight at 147 pounds. Their previous encounter was among the most awaited bouts in recent times. Crawford showcased his prowess by knocking Spence down thrice, eventually securing a win in the ninth round. This victory was significant for Crawford, not only maintaining his unblemished record (40-0, 31 KOs) but also earning him the title of Ring Magazine welterweight champion. In addition, Crawford unified the championship, integrating Spence’s WBC, IBF, and WBA titles with his existing WBO title. Despite his commendable track record, Crawford was only slightly favored over Spence in their initial meeting. After his defeat to Crawford, Spence, hailing from Desoto, Texas, now has a record of 28-1, with 22 KOs.
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Sep 02 2023

John Fury Says His Son [Tyson] Will Suffer Severe Injuries In Francis Ngannou Fight

John Fury, the father of renowned boxer Tyson Fury, has shared his concerns over his son's upcoming match against the former UFC heavyweight champion, Francis Ngannou. The two are set to face each other in a ten-round non-title match in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on October 28, under conventional boxing rules. The bout aims to identify the unofficial 'baddest man on the planet.' While Ngannou is stepping into a boxing ring for the first time, he carries a reputation as one of the most potent strikers globally from his time in the UFC. John Fury remarked in an interview with Seconds Out, sponsored by Freebets.com,
"He's world champion at his game, he's taking on the best in the world, taking it seriously, and I do believe he's going to bring the smoke. I'm expecting Tyson to come out with a broken leg or a broken arm."
Another intriguing aspect of the fight is that Ngannou has sought guidance from boxing legend Mike Tyson, interestingly, the inspiration behind Tyson Fury's name. Discussing this, John said:
"Keep in mind he's got Mike Tyson there, and he wants to impress Mike Tyson." He further emphasized that the influence of Mike Tyson in Ngannou's corner might be a significant advantage, noting, "He couldn't have a better mentor in his camp than the great Mike Tyson, I'm sure Mike will show him the boxing moves he needs."
Overall, while Tyson Fury is preparing for this unique face-off, his father remains concerned, suggesting the intensity of the upcoming battle:
"Exhibition or not, they're going to be fiercely competitive."
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