ADRIEN BRONER vs. MARCOS MAIDANA FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

"You never know, maybe I have to sit in there and brawl it out with this guy for 12 rounds.  Maybe I mess him up in two.  Maybe one." - Broner

"They might say Broner is one of the best, but I don' think he is." - Maidana

San Antonio solidified itself as a boxing powerhouse in 2013, so it's only fitting that the home of the Alamo will host the final blockbuster boxing event of the year when Adrien "The Problem" Broner faces Marcos "El Chino" Maidana thisSaturday, Dec. 14, live on SHOWTIME^® (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

"I put San Antonio with New York City, Las Vegas and Los Angeles as one of the top boxing cities in the country," Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer said during Thursday's final press conference for "DANGER ZONE: Broner vs. Maidana." 

And the third SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING event to emanate from San Antonio this year might be the best yet.  Saturday's telecast features four can't-miss world championship fights with each fighter facing potentially the toughest test of their respective careers.   

Here's what the fighters, trainers and promoters had to say during Thursday's final press conference:

ADRIEN BRONER, WBA Welterweight World Champion

"If he makes a mistake and I have a chance to get him out of there I'm going to get him out of there.  If I just beat him to death, then I beat him to death. 

"Who doesn't want to see a young star on the rise like Adrien Broner fight a guy like Marcos Maidana, a hard puncher, a knockout artist with 31 knockouts?  Who doesn't want to see that?  There's always that 'what if?'

"It's going to be a hell of a fight.  I don't go for knockouts but I really feel I'm going to knock this guy out; I'm going to be his first stoppage.  I'm going to stop this guy and we're going to move on to the next one. 

"Maidana is a good fighter, a hell of a fighter, but he's not on my level.  My career is going to the rooftop.  It's going to skyrocket.  But this is just the beginning.  It starts here. 

"I don't even think I've showed all of my abilities yet.  Maidana is a different type of fighter and he might bring something else out of Adrien Broner that the world hasn't seen yet.  Or he might be a regular fighter after I make him look the way I make him look.

"Every boxer wants to be where I am right now.  I am the person who is going to take over boxing after Floyd Mayweather.  Everybody wants this position. So I don't get mad when I hear that Keith Thurman wants to fight me - he's supposed to.  Who doesn't want to be where I am. 

"On Dec. 14 we're worried about Maidana.  I respect his coach; I respect him as a fighter.  People say I'm being bashful, I'm being respectful.  I can't talk trash to someone who doesn't speak English.  He's looking at me crazy right now and I don't know if he's faking or not.  He's a very respectful guy so I have to respect him, but on Dec. 14 I'm going to beat his ass.  I'm going to beat his ass for sure.  We can be friends after that.

"I'm not coming to play.  It's going to be the AB show and I'm going to be victorious.  We don't think about losing. 

"I don't watch tape but I've seen him a couple of times.  Everybody knows Maidana makes a lot of mistakes and you can't make mistakes with Broner. 

"You never know.  Maybe I have to sit in there and brawl it out with this guy for 12 rounds.  Maybe I mess him up in two.  Maybe one." 

MARCOS MAIDANA, Former WBA Super Lightweight World Champion

"I want to thank my team for working hand-in-hand with me, for all their help and support and for working so close with me. Thank you to Sebastian Contursi, Robert Garcia, Cecilio Flores and my right hand, my cousin "Pileta," that's been with me all the way.

"I'm ready for this fight; I've trained hard and I'm certain I have what it takes to come out victorious on Saturday.

"They might say Broner is one of the best, but I don' think he is. He's definitely different to any other opponents I've fought, but I'm prepared.  I'm ready for him.

"I'm going to hit him hard, very hard, with all I have and I'll get busy with him. I hope he's ready, because I am.

"This is the hardest fight of my life. I respect Broner, but I don't underestimate him.  On Saturday, I'll do my part; I'll do what I came here for - to fight with my heart and do my best.

"I'm not a trash talker. I'm not that kind of guy and I'm not going to get into that. It's just not my thing."

KEITH THURMAN, WBA Interim Welterweight World Champion

"I'm just trying to bring the excitement.  This card is called the "Danger Zone" and it's a guaranteed fact that every time you come into the ring with Keith "One Time" Thurman you're automatically stepping into the Danger Zone. 

"This is the last fight of the year and the last fight of the year is my favorite fight of the year.  I like to call it the icing on the cake.  I've been training really hard for this fight.  Soto is a real tough opponent.  He gave (Andre) Berto his all.  He claims he has a new passion for the sport.  I believe the man.  I saw it when he fought.  I saw his passion and I'm truly looking forward to this fight. 

"Christmas came early and I have two presents for Soto right here-my right and my left-two real nice packages.  Like I said, this is going to be the icing on the cake. 

"Last year I ended with a tremendous victory and I don't think this fight is going to go the distance.   I'm looking forward to putting him down on that blue canvas and make sure he gets to sleep real nice. "One Time," every time.

"My promoters have been testing me and I've been passing every test with flying colors.  So I'm ready for the world of boxing.  I'm not afraid to lose, I'm not afraid to get beat.  I want go out old school and fight the best of the best. 

"My KO ratio is phenomenal, but, as a matter of fact, I'm disappointed that I didn't knock out everybody.  I'm the kind of guy that wants to knockout everybody.  I'm "One Time," every time.  And that's what I'm bringing Saturday night. 

"I'm on the up and up.  I'm on my way to the top.  So this fight is important to get not just a victory but a KO victory so I can keep representing "One Time" Thurman."

"I'm not afraid to put it all on the line.  I've got "O" and I'm not afraid to let it go.

JESUS SOTO KARASS, Welterweight Contender

"It's a very important fight for me, especially with the holidays coming up.  I'd like to go enjoy the time off with a win.  

"My promoters and manager put me against the best.  I fight the best and the best comes out of me. 

A lot of people don't believe in me and they don't think I have what it takes to beat Keith Thurman.  But I've proven them wrong before and the people will respect me after the fight. 

"I've been on big cards before.  But my job is to go out and win and give the fans what they want.  I'm coming to knock him out.  If he wants to box I'm going to take him to school.  My heart is in this fight.

"I've worked really, really hard for this fight.  I've trained at the Ponce De Leon Gym in Monterrey, Calif., and this Saturday I'm going to show it in the ring.

"There's not much to say, other than to those that don't believe I'm worthy to be here, just wait to see me on the ring on December 14.

"For all the people that don't believe in me, for all those that think I shouldn't be in this position, I'm going to show everybody on Saturday night what I'm made off and I'm going to do it well.

"I want to thank Keith Thurman and his team for giving me the opportunity to fight for a world title again."

LEO SANTA CRUZ, WBC Super Bantamweight World Champion

"I'm just excited to be on a great undercard with Maidana and Broner.  I've trained really hard to be on these guys' level and I want to defend my title.  I know Cesar is a great fighter and that he has everything it takes to become a champion.  And I've trained hard to give him a great war.  We're going to leave it all in the ring.  May the best man win. 

"I closed out 2012 with a great win on CBS and I'm excited to do the same this year on SHOWTIME."

CESAR SEDA, Super Bantamweight Title Challenger

 "I want to let you know that you are going to witness a great show on Dec. 14

"From my part, I've prepared very well and I assure you, you are going to see a great fight on Saturday night.  I hope to see you all there."

BEIBUT SHUMENOV, WBA Super Light Heavyweight World Champion

 "It's great to be involved in an event like this, one of boxing's best of the year.  I had a great training camp and can't wait to show the American boxing fans what I am all about. 

"I know Tamas is undefeated, he's very ambitious and he came here to take what's mine.  But I'm not going to let him take my title.  I'm going to fight hard for what's mine.  And I'm going to show the world that I'm the best light heavyweight champion of the world."

TAMAS KOVACS, Light Heavyweight Contender

"This is a very big opportunity for me.  This is the fight of my life.

"I've been training and preparing for this fight since September.  On Saturday, I'm coming out with all I have.

"It took me forty hours to get to San Antonio.  It was a difficult trip, but it was worth it.  This is the fight of

my life. This is my chance and I'm going to take it.

"I know Shumenov is a good boxer, but I'm good and also clever. So, he better watch out."

ROBERT GARCIA, Maidana's Trainer

"Maidana is very happy to be here.  We know we are facing a great champion, but Chino [Maidana] knows what he has to do, and he's ready to do it. Come Saturday night, we are going to give the fans a great fight.

MIKE STAFFORD, Broner's Trainer

"For this fight Adrien is going to show you something special.  He's going to give you a Christmas present.  He had a great camp and this kid is something special.  I want to thank Team Maidana for signing the contract.  I know it is not easy to commit to fighting a guy like this [looking at Adrien Broner], he's truly the best."

RICARDO "DINAMITA" ALVAREZ

"I'm thankful for this fight, this is my first time fighting here. I'm thankful for my promoters, my camp, my friends and my family for all their support.

"December 14 at the Alamodome is going to be a good night for me, it's my debut in United States and I'm really excited. "

RICHARD SCHAEFER, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions

"It's been a great year in boxing and a great year for boxing in San Antonio with spectacular events here in San Antonio.  Thanks to the fans for embracing these fights.  We promise to keep bringing the big fights and price the big fights appropriately starting at $10.  This is our Christmas gift to the great fans in San Antonio.

"We would not be here without Mike Battah and James Leija, a very enthusiastic team to work with.

"Big thank you to Matt Black and Les Moonves along with Stephen Espinoza and their entire team for all their hard work in this incredible year for Golden Boy Promotions. "

MIKE BATTAH, President of Leija-Battah Promotions

"Welcome everyone to San Antonio from all over the world, very much appreciate your help in building up our business.  I made a commitment to San Antonio to build boxing here. Our commitment will continue, it's great to work with Richard and Golden Boy.  Our commitment will stay and continue to grow.

"We have the will to build boxing; we have the skills the structure and the organization.

"One of the biggest cards in Texas in many years, fans will see a terrific night of boxing.

"JESSE" JAMES LEIJA, Texas Boxing Legend, Leija-Battah Promotions

"Want to thanks GBP for giving us this opportunity to prove ourselves.  Mike Battah is an incredible businessman and a great partner.   Also want to thank the fans of San Antonio, best fans in the world.  This is truly an early Christmas gift for the fans to come out and enjoy the fights.  We have the top fighters from Golden Boy Promotions on this card.

"Leo Santa Cruz, one of my favorite fighters is in a very tough fight against Cesar Seda.

"Continue to support these events and we will continue to bring the biggest events here to one of the greatest cities in the world.

NICHOLS LANGELLA, General Manager of the Alamodome

"We're very proud to host this event.   It takes a terrific passion and enthusiasm to put on this show.   Thanks to James Leija, Mike Battah and Golden Boy for putting this tremendous event together."

"DANGER ZONE: Broner vs. Maidana," a 12-round fight for Broner's WBA Welterweight World Championship taking place on Saturday, Dec. 14 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Leija*Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona, AT&T, Grudge Match and Casamigos Tequila. In the 12-round co-featured attraction, Keith Thurman will defend his interim WBA Welterweight World Championship against Jesus Soto Karass. Leo Santa Cruz will put his WBC Super Bantamweight World title on the line against Cesar Seda in a 12-round bout and Beibut Shumenov faces Tamas Kovacs in a 12-round clash for Shumenov's WBA Super & IBA Light Heavyweight World titles. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast will air live at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and can be heard in Spanish using secondary audio programming (SAP). Preliminary bouts will air live on SHOWTIME EXTREME® at 6:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights! and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, All photos other than those specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Impress Photo-Studios♔ and KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment Sports and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Blog-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Danger Zone Undercard Conference Call Notes

As 2013 comes to a close, Los Angeles based promotional giants Golden Boy will see fit that the year ends with anything but a whimper. Although their September card which featured Floyd Mayweather and Saul "Canelo" Alvarez broke numerous financial records and carried an almost fever pitch of anticipation, the bout itself was more bang snaps than fireworks. Nevertheless, in the weeks leading up to Christmas, the southern California company will showcase two back to back weekend fight cards which could easily rank among the year’s best. In particular, the evening which has been labeled "Danger Zone" is sure to please not only those in attendance at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, but also the viewers at home who will be able to enjoy the fights on a non pay per view Showtime telecast on December 14 (8PM ET / 5PM PT). The evening’s main event will feature the brash, slick and undefeated Cincinnati fighter Adrien "The Problem" Broner (27-0, 22 KO’s) versus the hard charging slugger from Argentina, Marcos "El Chino" Maidana (34-3, 31 KO’s) in a scheduled twelve round bout for Broner’s WBA welterweight title. Additionally, the night’s undercard is heavily stacked and sure to please. In the co-main event, Keith "One Time" Thurman (21-0, 19 KO’s, Clearwater, Florida) will place his interim WBA World welterweight title on the line in a twelve round contest with Jesus Soto Karass (28-8-3, 18 KO’s, Los Mochis, Sinaloa, MX). This past July at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Thurman and Soto Karass fought in separate bouts and each scored knockout victories. Thurman knocked out Diego Chavez in ten rounds, while Soto Karass gained a shocking twelfth round knockout win over Andre Berto. Another match of note is the one scheduled between newly crowned WBC super bantamweight champion Leo Santa Cruz (25-0-1, 15 KO’s, Rosemead, California) and Cesar Seda (25-1, 17 KO’s, Puerto Rico). The aforementioned participants in the night’s undercard took part in an international media conference call this afternoon alongside Richard Schaefer (CEO of Golden Boy Promotions). Selected highlights are listed below. Richard Schaefer: "This is the best card we’ve ever put together. It’s not just about Broner and Maidana, which I believe is a pay per view event. The undercard we’ve put together is amazing. It will be live on Showtime and will be available for free. We’ve set the Alamodome up for 30,000 people and 10,000 tickets have already been sold. The least expensive ticket is only ten dollars. Even the non televised portion, which features Rau’Shee Warren, Jamel Herring, Ricardo Alvarez (Canelo’s brother) and Jermain Taylor as well, is just fantastic." Opening Statements, Jesus Soto Karass: "We’re ready for a war on December 14 and we’ve been preparing for one." Opening Statements, Keith "One Time" Thurman: "We’re getting in shape and I’m looking forward to December 14." Thurman on Soto Karass’s upset win over Andre Berto: "I watched the main event. I saw his fire and passion. He had a warrior mentality and he wouldn’t back down. I’m expecting the same fighter when I face him. I didn’t know which way his fight was going to go. As soon as he dropped Berto and the fight was over, then I knew a bout between us could be a possibility." On Getting a Big Time bout: "This fight right here will be the icing on the cake. After this bout, no one will be able to say that Keith "One Time" Thurman hasn’t been tested. After this, hopefully the door will be open for a big world title fight." Soto Karass on Thurman’s KO of Diego Chavez: "I didn’t see that much and I don’t like watching videos. He fought on the undercard of my fight with Andre Berto and it wasn’t until it was all over that I was told about the chance to fight Thurman. I’m getting ready like never before, just as always. I know he’s a young, strong fighter. I need to win this fight and take the title back to Los Mochis." Thurman on his 90% Knockout Ratio: "I can box and I can punch. Sometimes, I’ll have a game plan on whether I’d like to fight on the inside or outside. My name is "One Time" and I’m always looking for that one shot early on. I like going home early. I’m prepared to give my best on the (December) 14th." Soto Karass on Fighting Toe to Toe: "I’ve been characterized as a fighter that likes to do that. Lately, I’ve been doing more boxing, but of course as always I can go toe to toe if I have to. There’s always some skill and a game plan involved." Keith on his love for Boxing: "This job brings the best out of me and I’m my own boss. Each day in the gym I am developing as a fighter just as every day I’m developing as a man. It brings success inside and outside the ring." On the history of the Sport: "I actually was not much of a boxing fan as I grew up. It was not until I did my own research that I fell in love with so many of the old school fighters. All you had to do in those days was to walk up to a fighter and say, "Hey, I’m going to knock you out" and he would say, "Okay. Where do we sign?" Schaefer on Future Matchups: "Imagine the winner of this fight against the winner of Broner vs. Maidana? These are the types of fights that I as a fight fan just love to see." Opening Statements, Cesar Seda: "Good afternoon to everyone. Thank you to Oscar de la Hoya and Richard (Schaefer) for this opportunity. Thanks as well to Leo Santa Cruz. I’m ready to show that Puerto Rico is still full of boxing talent." Opening Statements, WBC Super Bantamweight Champion Leo Santa Cruz: "Thanks to my manager Al Haymon, Richard (Schaefer) and Oscar (De La Hoya). I’m ready for December 14. I want it to come so I can so everyone how motivated I am." Richard Schaefer on staging fights around the USA: "We started in San Antonio with club shows. It’s been a slow process with Leija-Battah promotions. The goal has been to bring world championship fights there. We’ve done the same thing as of late in Brooklyn, New York. The key is to capture those markets which share the same passion for the sport and those who are willing to invest in the sport as well. It’s just a matter of finding the right promoters and fighters who’d like to work with us." Cesar Seda on moving up in weight (115 to 122): "I moved up just like Leo did. I’ve kept my eye on him and the truth is that I feel much stronger at 122 pounds. In terms for punches, I’ve never fought anyone who throws as many as Leo. I want to prove that I’m ready." On Displaying Talent for Puerto Rico: "It motivates me and gives me hunger. Right now in Puerto Rico, there aren’t too many champions, but I will prove how good we are." Leo Santa Cruz on moving up in weight: "I feel much better at 122 (pounds). The weight is better for me. I feel great in sparring and in the gym." Cesar Seda on Pressure to fight for Puerto Rico: "No pressure at all. We’ve been working hard on my conditioning and strength in the gym to make sure there’s no pressure." Santa Cruz on Expectations: "I try to improve everyday in the gym. I give one hundred percent. I dedicate myself every day. I like to give the fans a great show and I never want to disappoint them." On Facing a Southpaw: "They’re more difficult. The last southpaw I fought was Vusi Malinga (June 2012). I can get used to their style. I’ll be ready and prepared for it." Richard Schaefer on future dates in San Antonio: "It’s always been a great market for boxing. With Mike (Battah) and James (Leija), we’ve taken this to another level. I’m not listing in order, but there’s the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, the Staples Center in Los Angeles and then there’s the market in San Antonio. We’re holding a number of dates for next year there. Saul "Canelo" Alvarez felt very welcome there and wants to fight there again. You don’t hear much about Dallas any more since they hosted a Manny Pacquiao fight there a few years ago. You cannot build a market with just a "one off" event. You need to bring a mix of smaller and bigger fights." On The Hispanic Market: "It’s extremely important to the overall health of boxing. We’ve used a research company to ask about the demographics of boxing fans. The Hispanic as well as African American markets are so important. We are seeing more and more that the market in general is getting behind boxing. The ratings we’ve received so far for our Fox Sports 1 telecasts have been unbelievable. If you can bring events to the stadiums as well as arenas in a particular city, then you can only elevate the sport." On Local talent: "There is great talent there. These young kids see that boxing is coming on a regular basis to their town and it encourages them to train even harder. It’s encouraging and it helps the sport grow from the roots up. I think it’s a dream for many fighters to become professional and one day fight in their hometown. Mike Battah is just an amazing guy who has a true passion for the sport." On Lowering Ticket prices: "You always should want to create an environment where a family can go and enjoy the event. I think that pricing is important and we want to make a point here. The larger venues give us more options on ticket prices and inventory." Seda on winning a decision in San Antonio: "Yes and we’ve prepared for that. I understand that the place will be pro-Santa Cruz, but we can find ways around that." Leo on Seda’s fighting style: "I know that he’s a very good fighter. He has the quality to be a champion. He can punch and he can box. He can do a lot." Cesar on Santa Cruz’s style: "I have the tools and the ability to beat a fighter like him."

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights! and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, All photos other than those specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Impress Photo-Studios♔ and KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment Sports and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Blog-Online Publication all rights reserved.

"KNOCKOUT KINGS II: Andre Berto vs. Jesus Soto Karass" Final Press Conference Quotes‏; SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Tripleheader Saturday, July 27, LIVE on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/PT) From AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas

ANDRE BERTO, Former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion

"There's really not much to say, these guys had said it all.

"I'm in tremendous shape, I'm focused. I'm going to put on a hell of a performance.

"I'm just going to go in there and be me. I'm not worried about the title of the show, I'm not worried about his record. I'm just going to go in there and get the win.

"I am in great shape and I have everything to bring to the table. I have the speed, I have the power. I have the explosiveness and I'm going out there and do what I know how to do.

"I've known Virgil (Hunter) since I was 13 so it's not like he's a stranger to me. Everything's been flowing pretty well and it's been a great situation for me.

"The show is called Knockout Kings but no matter how it goes, I know it's going to be exciting. You're definitely going to see a lot of speed, a lot of power and a lot of explosiveness, it's going to be an exciting show.

"It's going to be a hell of a fight; I'm in shape. I'm in good spirits. I'm focused and I know Soto Karass is ready too."

Andre Berto, Jesus Soto Karass, Omar Figueroa, Keith Thurman - Pre-Fight Action - SHOWTIME; A lineup of power-punchers is ready to rock San Antonio when Showtime Championship Boxing rolls into town. Watch Andre Berto, Jesus Soto Karass, Omar Figueroa Jr., and Keith Thurman in action before they throw down live on SHOWTIME, Saturday July 27 at 9PM ET/PT.

JESUS SOTO KARASS, Veteran Welterweight Contender

"My preparation has been great. My team knows what Berto brings. He's an ex-champion. We know that he's a quality fighter and he's tough. But that's why we train for this.

"The losses you see on my record, I wasn't taking it serious. But, believe me, we're taking Andre Berto very serious. Not only have I matured personally but I've matured in the ring. The preparation has been very good. We know we have a tough opponent, but we're here and we're prepared to win.

"Every fight I come with a different plan. We have a plan for Andre Berto. We have a Plan A, a Plan B, it doesn't matter; we'll be ready for him.

"My only prediction is it's going to be a war. I'm going to leave my heart in there. If I have to die in the ring I will

"Out of the ring we're friends, but inside the ring it's another thing. I don't have anything against Andre Berto but once we get in the ring I'm looking to knock him out.

"I want everyone to help, help me with breast cancer awareness. We have a raffle going on - it's $10 to buy a ticket and you can win the gloves and the trunks that I wear in the ring. Let's go knockout cancer as well.

"The reason I support Susan G. Komen is because of Oscar De La Hoya. It really touched my heart that Oscar lost his mother, Cecilia, to cancer. So being a boxer I felt like I would join that fight to knock out breast cancer.

"I'm ready; I'm only a pound-and-a-half away. I can't wait until tomorrow so I can get on the scale and go eat."

OMAR FIGUEROA, Undefeated Rising Star & WBC Lightweight Contender

"This is it, this is seventeen years of work. This is why every boxers starts, what every boxer dreams of. This is it. The goal is the green belt, that's the one, that's the best one. That's the one we all want.

"This is a great opportunity, this is what we have been working so hard for.

"I want to thank my opponent's team for having agreed to this fight, he's ranked number one and that's what we wanted.

"We don't take anybody lightly. We are ready, we know that a fight can take many directions with every step you take in the ring, so we are ready.

"I'm excited to be on this card. It's really an honor to fight in the KNOCKOUT KINGS because is one thing to be considered a fighter and another one to be considered a knockout artist.

"I'm fighting with great knockout artist such as Keith Thurman, Berto, Chaves and Arakawa and all these are great fighters

"We are the backbone [of boxing] because we fight to knock someone out, we try to provide the fans with the most excitement we can and we go in there ready for war."

NIHITO ARAKAWA, WBC Interim Lightweight World Championship Contender

"I'm happy to have this chance at my first world title. That gives me extra motivation to win this fight.

"I don't think I can win by points. I have to knock him out - I think that's my only chance to walk out of here with a world title

"My nickname is "Baby Faced Sniper," but when I saw Omar Figueroa it looks like he's a little bit more baby faced than I am. So I want to give him my nickname "Baby Faced Sniper."

"I've prepared for this world title chance for my entire life and I know Omar has prepared for this as well. We're both going to fight as hard as we can to get that first world title. I know I want it and I know he wants it, so it's going to be an exciting fight."

DIEGO CHAVES, WBA Interim Welterweight World Champion

"We know we have a tough opponent, we have very similar records, neither of us can lose concentration during the fight because it can end with only one punch that's why we are very well prepared and we know we can take the win.

"I know Keith is a good fighter, but I hope he's ready because I'm going to show him and the world why I'm a world champion and why this belt is coming back with me to Argentina.

"He may be undefeated, but he's never faced anyone like me.

"I've been training hard, very hard. We are looking forward to a great fight, and we are confident the we'll come out victorious.

"It's going to be a war. I'm not going to leave my belt in the judges' hands- I plan on taking care of Thurman on my own."

KEITH THURMAN, WBA World Championship Welterweight Contender

"It's a tremendous fight. I'm 20-0 with 18 knockouts; Chaves is 22-0 with 18 knockouts. You don't see this very often with young fighters.

"But I'm the kind of fighter that's knocking on everybody's door. Everybody in the welterweight division will soon know about Keith "One Time" Thurman. We're moving up one step at a time and we're going to step over Diego on Saturday night, guaranteed.

"The KO bonus has nothing to do with the way I fight. My motto is already KOs for life and the nickname "One Time." I do my best to get the fighter out of there because if we don't have to do the distance then that, to me, is a job well done.

"We're always looking for that knockout; we're always looking for that one punch that can change the fight around. That's just me, that's just "One Time." That knockout bonus is just another check waiting.

"I definitely don't think he's faced anyone like me. That's why I'm confident. I believe he's been spoon-fed his entire career. A lot of people say the fighters I've fought knew I was favored, but they were still world-class fighters and I dominated them each and every round. And I plan on dominating Diego Chaves every round Saturday night.

"Knockout Kings II - this event has that title for a reason. I guarantee you'll get your moneys' worth."

ANTHONY DIRRELL, Light Heavyweight Contender

"I battled cancer and it didn't hold me down. I'm still here and I'm ready.

"Coming up this Saturday, I'll win with by knockout. "

ANTHONY HANSHAW, Light Heavyweight Contender

"It doesn't matter what happened when I fought his brother. The fact that I lost to Andre just gives me extra motivation. When I fought Andre, I wasn't in shape at all. But I'm in some of the best shape of my career to fight Anthony. I had a great camp and I'm ready to give him the first loss of his career."

JESSE JAMES LEIJA, Former World Champion & Boxing Legend

"I want to thank the Susan G. Komen Beast Cancer Foundation - you are important in every one of our lives because we all have moms. But that's not to say that men can't get breast cancer as well.

"I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions for giving us the opportunity to put on the type of fights that we've been bringing to San Antonio.

"I also want to thank SHOWTIME. I won my first world title on SHOWTIME and fought several times on the network, so it's not just a thing for me to say that I'm proud to be them. It means a lot more than just face value; it's what in my heart because they've been with me for several years.

"We're still recovering from the Canelo-Trout fight and now we're bringing Knockout Kings II where we have three world title fights and I don't know who is going to win. Will the fights go the distance? Probably not when you have these types of punchers. Who's going to win the fights? I have no idea. Am I going to be in the front row? You bet.

"I've watched these guys on TV and I'm awed by the type of power that they have. Omar - I call him 'Mini Mike Tyson' - I hope he gives us two rounds so we can really appreciate the power that he has."

ABOUT "KNOCKOUT KINGS II"   

"Knockout Kings II," featuring former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion Andre Berto facing tough Mexican veteran contender Jesus Soto Karass in a 12-round main event for the vacant NABF Welterweight Championship, takes place Saturday, July 27 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas.  The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Leija & Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T.  In the 12-round co-featured attractions, Weslaco, Texas' undefeated rising star Omar Figueroa Jr. squares off against Japan's Nihito Arakawa for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with Teiken Promotions and undefeated power-puncher Diego Chaves faces fellow unbeaten knockout artist Keith Thurman for Chaves' WBA Interim Welterweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with KO International.  The tripleheader will be broadcast live on SHOWTIME® at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT and will be available in Spanish via second audio programming (SAP).  Preliminary fights will air on SHOWTIME EXTREME^® at 7:00 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast).

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 All photos other than those specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Impress Photo-Studios♔ and KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Blog-Online Publication all rights reserved.

"KNOCKOUT KINGS II, Andre Berto vs. Jesus Soto Karass a 12-round welterweight main event, takes place Saturday, July 27 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas

"KNOCKOUT KINGS II," featuring Two-Time Welterweight World Champion Andre Berto facing tough Mexican veteran contender Jesus Soto Karass in a 12-round welterweight main event, takes place Saturday, July 27 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas.  The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Leija & Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T.  In the 12-round co-featured attractions, Weslaco, Texas' undefeated rising star Omar Figueroa Jr. squares off against Tokyo's Nihito Arakawa for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with Teiken Promotions and unbeaten knockout artist Keith Thurman and fellow power-puncher Diego Gabriel Chaves battle for Chaves' WBA Interim Welterweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with KO International.  The tripleheader will be broadcast live on SHOWTIME at 9 p.m. ET/PT and will be available in Spanish via second audio programming (SAP).

ANDRE BERTO, Former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion

"I'm looking forward to this challenge on July 27.  As you can see, it's an exciting undercard with my man Keith Thurman and my man Omar Figueroa.

"I've been through some ups and downs.  I feel that I have made some of the right changes that I needed to get focused.

"I have a new team and I'm dedicated to win another world title.

 "I let the big show get away from me twice, once against Victor Ortiz and once against Robert Guerrero.  I'm coming to San Antonio focused.

"It's going to be a hell of a show.  Make sure you buy your tickets or tune in on SHOWTIME because there's nothing stopping me.  I'm ready.

"You can have all the power in the world, but if you don't know technique or don't have a strategy, then you've got nothing.  I've made changes in my game plan and I'm going to fight smarter.

"Soto Karass is a good fighter.  I've seen his fights.  There's nothing too spectacular about him, but he does have that tough Mexican fighting style."

JESUS SOTO KARASS, Veteran Welterweight Contender

"I have a great test ahead of me.  I have followed Andre Berto's career very closely.  When he was a world champion, I was hoping I was going to get to fight him someday.

"I wasn't ready for him then, but now that I got offered the fight, I know I'm ready.

"This is a very important fight for me and I know I'm ready.  I'm going to give it everything I've got to prove all of the doubters wrong.

"I decided that this year is the year I'm going to become a world champion.

"San Antonio is one of the best places for boxing. With these ticket prices, I'm hoping the arena is going to be full of Mexicans and Mexican Americans.

"The name of this fight is 'Knockout Kings II' for a reason and I'm going to try to make sure it lives up to its name."

OMAR FIGUEROA JR., Undefeated Texas Rising Star

"This fight is called 'Knockout Kings II' for a reason.  I always go out there looking for the knockout.  This is a great fight card for the fans.  This is what boxing needs.

"It especially means a lot for my home state of Texas.  This is perfect for me.  All of my friends, family and fans can come up and see me fight.

"I'm at a loss for words when I think about fighting for my first world title here in Texas.  I pictured myself being in this position because as a fighter, you have to see it in order to achieve it.  This is what we've wanted and what we've been working so hard for.

"July 27, you'll see fireworks in the ring.

 "San Antonio is the perfect place for a card like this.  I can't describe what it was like being at the Canelo vs. Trout fight.  Hearing 40,000 people cheer was incredible.  I'm so grateful for this opportunity and proud to be a part of this fight card."

KEITH THURMAN, Undefeated Top Rated Welterweight Contender

"The last time I was in Texas was when I was competing as an amateur in the 2008 Olympic Trials.

"I don't know if there is another fighter out there that's hungrier than me.  They've been feeding me, but I'm still starving   I have a long time left in this game and I don't know when I'm going to get enough of it.

"I'm looking forward to this fight.  My opponent is a young hungry fighter with a record of 22 and 0 with 18 knockouts and I am 20 and 0 with 18 knockouts.  You know this is going to be a fight.

"If you're a boxing fan and you're from around here, then you have to be here unless you've got a family emergency.

"Come support the undercard that has a lot of local fighters and local talent.

"I don't expect this fight to go more than two rounds.  If the fight goes more than two rounds, find me and I will give you a refund."

ERIC GOMEZ, Vice President and Matchmaker of Golden Boy Promotions

"We've been around for a little over a decade and we've done great events and I don't think we've had a partner like Leija and Battah Promotions.  They're committed to boxing and committed to Texas and they're doing an amazing job.

"Don't blink when Keith Thurman fights, because you might miss something big.

"Everyone has been looking for the next great fighter in Texas, the next great champion from the state and I think we've found him in Omar Figueroa.

"In boxing, there are great events and then there are great fights.  Last month at the Alamodome, there was a great event.  This main event is a great fight.  Styles make fights and both of these guys really come to fight.  They're going to come to fight hard because that's what they know how to do.

"This is little bit of a crossroads fight for both Berto and Soto Karass.  The winner is going to go on to bigger and better things and whoever loses is going to have to take a hard look at their career."

JESSE JAMES LEIJA, Former Two-Time World Champion & Texas Boxing Legend

 "We have a strong undercard with great local talent from San Antonio.  We see great things happening for these guys in the future.

"We're excited to have Omar Figueroa back again, but maybe he will give us two rounds this time.

"I'm a huge fan of Andre Berto and of Jesus Soto Karass.  I'm also a huge fan of the sport of boxing and Mike [Battah] and I have worked really hard with Golden Boy Promotions to bring the best events to San Antonio.

"We want to fill the AT&T Center with 18,000 people and I think that's doable.

"We're bringing great fights, big names and we hope everyone comes out and supports boxing in San Antonio."

MIKE BATTAH, President of Leija and Battah Promotions 

"We are growing this fight business and it's growing in a fast way.  San Antonio is going to be the hub of boxing and we're really excited about that."

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 All photos other than those specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Impress Photo-Studios♔ and KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Blog-Online Publication all rights reserved.

"Knockout Kings II" Featuring Andre Berto vs. Jesus Soto Karass & Undefeated Rising Stars Keith Thurman vs. Diego Chaves Lands At The AT&T Center in San Antonio on July 27 Live on SHOWTIME - Tickets Go On Sale Friday, May 17 at 10:00 a.m. CT‏

"KNOCKOUT KINGS II" FEATURING FORMER TWO-TIME

WORLD CHAMPION ANDRE BERTO FACING

PERENIAL CONTENDER JESUS SOTO KARASS AND UNDEFEATED

RISING STARS KEITH THURMAN AND DIEGO CHAVES SQUARING OFF FOR WBA INTERIM WELTERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP LANDS AT THE AT&T CENTER IN SAN ANTONIO ON JULY 27

PLUS, UNBEATEN TEXAS SENSATION OMAR FIGUEROA JR.

FACES JAPAN'S NIHITO ARAKAWA FOR WBC INTERIM LIGHTWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

SHOWTIME^® TO TELEVISE TRIPLEHEADER LIVE

San Antonio, Texas will once again be the site of a major boxing event when SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® returns to the Lone Star State on Saturday, July 27 with "KNOCKOUT KINGS II," a spectacular night of world-class fights at the AT&T Center featuring a tripleheader starring some of the sport's brightest stars live on SHOWTIME.

In the 12-round main event, former Two-Time Welterweight World Champion Andre Berto is back in the ring to take on tough Mexican contender Jesus Soto Karass.  Plus, unbeaten knockout artist Keith Thurman and fellow power-puncher Diego Gabriel Chavesbattle for Chaves' WBA Interim Welterweight World Championship and Weslaco, Texas' undefeated rising star Omar Figueroa Jr. squares off against Tokyo's Nihito Arakawa for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight World Championship.

The event marks the return of co-promoters Golden Boy Promotions and Leija & Battah Promotions to San Antonio where they recently promoted the April 20 blockbuster fight between Canelo Alvarez and Austin Trout which had almost 40,000 fans in attendance.

"Texas is our new home away from home and it's great to be returning so soon after the Alvarez-Trout mega event in April," said Oscar De La Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions.  "That event proved that boxing is alive and well and on July 27, we're going to have another stacked card that will pack the AT&T Center."

"Leija-Battah Promotions is thrilled to be co-hosting another SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING event in San Antonio in collaboration with Golden Boy Promotions," said Mike Battah, President of Leija & Battah Promotions.  "The people of San Antonio and Texas demonstrated their affinity for boxing on April 20 at the Canelo vs. Trout sell-out event and we look forward to hosting multiple mega-fights yearly."

"We have always dedicated ourselves to providing the people of San Antonio and all of South Texas with a broad variety of first-class sports and entertainment events at the AT&T Center," said Rick Pych, Spurs Sports & Entertainment President of Business Operations.  "San Antonio is a city that truly appreciates and supports boxing in a big way and this is a terrific opportunity for fight fans to witness three world-class bouts in an arena setting."

A member of the 2004 Haitian Olympic team, Andre Berto (28-2, 22 KO's) turned pro later that year and has never looked back.  A throwback fighter willing to go into the trenches to put on exciting bouts for his fans, the 29-year-old from Winter Haven, Florida first struck professional gold in 2008 when he stopped Miguel Rodriguez in the seventh round to win the WBC Welterweight World Championship.  Berto successfully defended the crown five times before losing it to Victor Ortiz in The Ring Magazine's 2011 Fight of the Year.  He bounced back five months later to defeat Jan Zaveck for the IBF Welterweight World Championship.  In his most recent bout, Berto engaged in a fight of the year candidate against Roberto Guerrero, losing a hard fought 12-round decision last November.

"It's been a long time since I've fought in Texas and I'm happy to be back fighting in front of the great fans here," said Berto.  "I'm hungrier than ever to get my title back and the first step is taking out Soto Karass on July 27."

One of the fight game's most rugged competitors, Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico's Jesus Soto Karass (27-8-3, 17 KO's) always gives a supreme effort in the ring and, win or lose, his opponents never emerge from their fights with him unscathed.  Fresh off of a January win overSelcuk Aydin, the 30-year-old Soto Karass hopes to add Berto's name to a list of vanquished foes that includes Euri Gonzalez, Said El Harrak, Vince Phillips, David Estrada and Chris Smith.

"I respect what Andre Berto has done in his career and he's a tough fighter, but a win over him would be the biggest of my career," said Soto Karass.  "If I want to get a world title shot, I have to go through him to get it."

A crushing puncher with a 90% knockout rate, Clearwater, Florida's Keith "One Time" Thurman (20-0, 18 KO's) has raised his worldwide profile considerably since returning from a year-long injury induced layoff in 2012.  Since then, Thurman has gone 5-0 with four knockouts, with wins over Brandon Hoskins, Orlando Lora and former World Champion Carlos Quintana.  In his last fight in March, the 24-year-old scored a shutout win over former World Champion Jan Zaveck and on July 27, he challenges for his first world title.

"I'm looking forward to fighting for an interim title and doing it against someone like Chaves," said Thurman.  "I'm not going to have to chase him or get him to fight.  We're going to battle and I'm going to be the last man standing."

The latest in the line of hard-hitting standouts from Argentina, Diego Gabriel "La Joya" Chaves (22-0, 18 KO's) shares a similar fighting philosophy with his opponent, Thurman: to end matters as soon as possible.  Currently sporting a five-fight knockout streak, the 27-year-old Chaves won the WBA Interim Welterweight World Championship in July of last year with a second round knockout of Ismael El Massoudi and defended it two months later with an identical result against Jose Miranda.  Now he's back to fight in the United States for the first time since 2010.

"I appreciate the opportunity to fight in the United States and against someone with a great reputation like Keith Thurman," said Chaves. "We're proud people and proud fighters in Argentina and I'm going to show this to the world on July 27^th."

Adding to the knockout theme on July 27 is Texas' own titan, Weslaco native Omar "Panterita" Figueroa Jr. (21-0-1, 17 KO's), who has ended four of his last five wins with first round knockouts.  In April, the 23-year-old thrilled his home state fans with a first round knockout over then unbeaten top prospect Abner Cotto, winning the NABA and WBC Interim Silver Lightweight titles in the process.  He will draw on the energy from a San Antonio crowd for his third consecutive fight when he fights for his first world title against Arakawa on July 27.

"For me there's nothing like fighting at home in Texas and the fans of San Antonio have pushed me to new heights in my last two fights," said Figueroa.  "I'm looking forward to giving them another big knockout win."

Fighting out of Tokyo, Japan, 31-year-old southpaw Nihito Arakawa (24-2-1, 16 KO's) is a nine-year veteran guaranteed to give Figueroa some looks he has never seen in the ring before.  A Japanese and OPBF lightweight champion, Arakawa has won 11 of his last 12 bouts, most recently dispatching Pakphum Tor Pornchai in two rounds on May 4.  On July 27, he'll enter hostile territory with the goal of pinning a "1" on Figueroa's loss column.

"I'm looking forward to fighting in the United States for the first time against a tough opponent like Omar Figueroa," said Arakawa.  "I'm coming here to put on a great show and take the title back to Japan with me."

"KNOCKOUT KINGS II," featuring Two-Time Welterweight World Champion Andre Berto vs. tough Mexican contender Jesus Soto Karass in a 12-round welterweight main event, takes place Saturday, July 27 at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas.  The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Leija & Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona and AT&T.  In the 12-round co-featured attractions, unbeaten knockout artist Keith Thurman and fellow power-puncher Diego Gabriel Chaves battle for Chaves' WBA Interim Welterweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with KO International and Weslaco, Texas' undefeated rising star Omar Figueroa Jr. squares off against Tokyo's Nihito Arakawa for the vacant WBC Interim Lightweight World Championship in a fight promoted in association with Teiken Promotions.  The tripleheader will be broadcast live on SHOWTIME and will be available in Spanish via second audio programming (SAP).

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 All photos other than those specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Impress Photo-Studios♔ and KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Blog-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Hopkins vs. Cloud Saturday, March 9 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn

Hopkins vs. Cloud, a 12-round fight for Cloud's IBF Light Heavyweight World Championship will take place Saturday, March 9 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.  The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Don King Productions and sponsored by Corona, AT&T, Ford and Rocawear.  The HBO World Championship Boxing telecast begins at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT.  The co-main event will be a 12-round fight between top rated undefeated contender Keith Thurman and former World Champion Jan Zaveck for Zaveck's WBO Inter-Continental Welterweight Championship.

 ♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Mayweather has six approved opponents for six-fight contract with Showtime/CBS

Floyd Mayweather Jr. has already approved six opponents for his six-fight contract with Showtime/CBS. According to the Boston Herald these are the fighters that Mayweather has approved of to fight for his 30 months $250 million contract with Showtime/CBS: Guerrero, Marcos Maidana, Alfredo Angulo, Danny Garcia, Saul "Canelo" Alvarez and Devon Alexander. 

Of that list, only Canelo would be considered a dangerous opponent for Floyd. Garcia is a light welterweight, Alexander tends to clinch a lot, Angulo is a slow 154 pounder, Maidana is also very slow, and Guerrero is a straight up fighter with little in the way of defensive skills. Missing from this list is Manny Pacquiao, the fighter that boxing fans feel would be Mayweather’s biggest threat. If all Mayweather Jr. has to do is beat Canelo, Angulo, Guerrero, Alexander, Garcia and Maidana in order to complete his six-fight contract within 30 months for Showtime/CBS then they’re not putting a lot of pressure on him. Pacquiao’s name should be in that list as well as Amir Khan, Lucas Matthysse, Keith Thurman and Austin Trout. Alvarez is a good fighter, but he’s pretty slow and is like a bigger version of Juan Manuel Marquez.

Mayweather already proved that he can beat Marquez with ease, so it’s likely that Canelo will be no problems for Mayweather. Canelo obviously will be coming next after the Guerrero fight because Mayweather is going to want to get the most difficult fight out of the way as quick as possible in order to avoid facing him a year or two down the line when he starts to lose more of his skills.

It’s still a very winnable fight for Mayweather no matter when he faces Canelo because his style is made to order for him.

Garcia is someone whose situation is kind of precarious right now. Unless Golden Boy keeps him away from Matthysse and Amir Khan, we could see Garcia beaten in 2013. At that point there will be no reason for Mayweather to fight him. He’ll have to switch out Garcia’s name and insert Khan or Matthysse.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.

Hopkins vs. Cloud, a 12-round fight for Cloud’s IBF light heavyweight title; Undefeated Light Heavyweights Ryan Coyne And Marcus Oliveira Will Meet On Hopkins vs. Cloud Card at Barclays Center On March 9 WBA Light Heavyweight Final Elimination Bout

Hopkins vs. Cloud, a 12-round fight for Cloud’s IBF light heavyweight title, will take place Saturday, March 9 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.  The event is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Don King Productions and sponsored by Corona, AT&T and Ford.  The co-main event will be a 12-round fight between top-rated contender Keith Thurman and former world champion Jan Zaveck for Zaveck’s World Boxing Organization Intercontinental welterweight championship. Undefeated Light Heavyweights Ryan Coyne And Marcus Oliveira Will Meet On Hopkins vs. Cloud Card at Barclays Center On March 9

A World Boxing Association light heavyweight elimination bout featuring two undefeated fighters, Ryan “The Irish Outlaw” Coyne (21-0, 9 KOs), from St. Louis, and Marcus Oliveira (24-0-1, 19 KOs), from Lawrence, Kan., has been added to the March 9 card in Brooklyn’s Barclays Center headlined by future Hall of Famer Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins (52-6-2, 32 KOs), from Philadelphia, taking on undefeated International Boxing Federation light heavyweight champion Tavoris “Thunder” Cloud (24-0, 19 KOs), from Tallahassee, Fla.

The winner of Coyne vs. Oliveira, scheduled for 10 rounds, will become the No. 1-rated light heavyweight by the WBA and the mandatory challenger to its champion, Beibut Shumenov.

Coyne gained attention while campaigning as a cruiserweight when he was chosen to participate in the fourth season of the popular television series The Contender where he fought into the semi-finals before suffering an accidental headbutt that forced him to leave the competition.  In his final fight at cruiserweight, Coyne captured the World Boxing Council United States Championship after winning a unanimous decision over previously undefeated David McNemar on June 25, 2011.  Coyne has maintained his perfect record by notching three victories since moving down to the 175-pound limit.

Oliveira has shown considerable power by winning 19 of his 25 matches by knockout, achieving an 82% knockout ratio.  Oliveira scored a pair of third-round knockouts in fights against his most notable opponents: former cruiserweight world champion Kelvin “Concrete” Davis in 2008 and Antwun Echols on Jan. 28, 2012.

♔EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess♔, See you at the Fights and Thank You for your time. EL Boxing Empress Online @ Twitter http://www.twitter.com/Keishamorrisey ©®™ 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 All photos other than specified by "EL Boxing Empress & MMA Princess" Keisha Morrisey, for ♔Empire Morrisey Photo-Studios♔, KCKMT for Bloodline Boxing Communications Entertainment and ★Starlite★ Boxing's Sweetscience Magnews-Online Publication all rights reserved.