1 hr. ago
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn has expressed regret over not bringing Katie Taylor to GAA headquarters earlier, following extraordinary ticket demand for the Irish fighter's farewell contest at Croke Park.
The 40-year-old will fulfil a lifelong dream when she takes to the ring in Dublin on Saturday night, seeking to become a three-time undisputed world champion against the undefeated Flora Pili.
A sell-out crowd of 80,000 is set to gather for the pioneering athlete's final bout prior to retirement, though Hearn remains confident that vast numbers of additional tickets could easily have been sold.
Previous concerns regarding financial viability, substantial security expenses, and complex logistics had dissuaded the promoter from organising a Croke Park show headlined by Taylor—a hesitation he now reflects on with disappointment.
Hearn said: "If Croker would have originally gone 'Yes, this is going to be massive', I would have gone 'Wow' and we would have done it.
#park #promoter #irish
The 40-year-old will fulfil a lifelong dream when she takes to the ring in Dublin on Saturday night, seeking to become a three-time undisputed world champion against the undefeated Flora Pili.
A sell-out crowd of 80,000 is set to gather for the pioneering athlete's final bout prior to retirement, though Hearn remains confident that vast numbers of additional tickets could easily have been sold.
Previous concerns regarding financial viability, substantial security expenses, and complex logistics had dissuaded the promoter from organising a Croke Park show headlined by Taylor—a hesitation he now reflects on with disappointment.
Hearn said: "If Croker would have originally gone 'Yes, this is going to be massive', I would have gone 'Wow' and we would have done it.
#park #promoter #irish
3 days ago
Moses Itauma has a lot of changes to make if he's to become a boxing world champion in the future.
Itauma, 21, had the chance Saturday at London's O2 Arena to become the youngest heavyweight world champion since Mike Tyson. All he had to do was beat veteran contender Filip Hrgovic and claim the vacant IBF heavyweight world ******* le.
Despite winning the first round, knocking Hrgovic down in the second, and dominating many of the subsequent rounds with his dazzling offense and fast hands, Itauma nonetheless showed his inexperience, according to his promoter Frank Warren. He fell in love with his power and abandoned his jab, the Queensberry Promotions founder said.
Itauma (14-1, 12 KOs) ultimately punched himself out and lost in the ninth round, when he could barely stand on his own accord. He threw slower, more sluggish shots, and he was there for the taking. Hrgovic, 34, simply needed only to survive in order to claim the win once it was given to him.
"Moses started the fight really well — controlling the fight with his jab, but it didn't work out for him," Warren, Itauma's longtime promoter, said post-fight.
#heavyweight
Itauma, 21, had the chance Saturday at London's O2 Arena to become the youngest heavyweight world champion since Mike Tyson. All he had to do was beat veteran contender Filip Hrgovic and claim the vacant IBF heavyweight world ******* le.
Despite winning the first round, knocking Hrgovic down in the second, and dominating many of the subsequent rounds with his dazzling offense and fast hands, Itauma nonetheless showed his inexperience, according to his promoter Frank Warren. He fell in love with his power and abandoned his jab, the Queensberry Promotions founder said.
Itauma (14-1, 12 KOs) ultimately punched himself out and lost in the ninth round, when he could barely stand on his own accord. He threw slower, more sluggish shots, and he was there for the taking. Hrgovic, 34, simply needed only to survive in order to claim the win once it was given to him.
"Moses started the fight really well — controlling the fight with his jab, but it didn't work out for him," Warren, Itauma's longtime promoter, said post-fight.
#heavyweight
6 days ago
IndyCar president Doug Boles flew from Ontario to Washington, D.C., the evening of Aug. 16 with as much trepidation as he had optimism. Boles, who typically travels to the site of IndyCar's upcoming race mid-week, wasted no time getting to the nation's capital ahead of the series' second-biggest race of the year, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix.
After IndyCar and promoter Green Savoree Racing Promotions made a poor first impression – having to call off Friday's practice session – at their new street race in Markham, Ontario, it wasn't clear what awaited for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, although this race was promoted by Penske Entertainment with ****** istance from Monumental Sports & Entertainment and Harbinger.
"Honestly, I was worried just because how Canada had gone," Boles told IndyStar in an exclusive interview.
But after a dinner with Penske Corporation president Bud Denker and the chance to see the 7-turn, 1.7-mile track come to fruition, Boles realized that IndyCar was "in good shape" for Saturday and Sunday's on-track sessions.
Once President Donald Trump signed an executive order allowing the IndyCar race – which was won by Kyle Kirkwood – to occur around the U.S. Capitol Building, the series had less than seven months to check every box for the new street course. (It typically takes a year, sometimes two, to set up new street circuits.)
#street
After IndyCar and promoter Green Savoree Racing Promotions made a poor first impression – having to call off Friday's practice session – at their new street race in Markham, Ontario, it wasn't clear what awaited for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix, although this race was promoted by Penske Entertainment with ****** istance from Monumental Sports & Entertainment and Harbinger.
"Honestly, I was worried just because how Canada had gone," Boles told IndyStar in an exclusive interview.
But after a dinner with Penske Corporation president Bud Denker and the chance to see the 7-turn, 1.7-mile track come to fruition, Boles realized that IndyCar was "in good shape" for Saturday and Sunday's on-track sessions.
Once President Donald Trump signed an executive order allowing the IndyCar race – which was won by Kyle Kirkwood – to occur around the U.S. Capitol Building, the series had less than seven months to check every box for the new street course. (It typically takes a year, sometimes two, to set up new street circuits.)
#street
8 days ago
Ultimate Fighting Championship veteran EdsonBarboza has made it clear that his retirement is final and hehas no plans to reverse his decision.
Just days after announcing the end of his 17-year professionalmixed martial arts career, the Brazilian has a message for managersand promoters who might try to entice him back intocompetition.
Barboza announced his retirement after suffering a fourthconsecutive defeat, getting finished by EstebanRibovics at UFC330 in Philadelphia. The 39-year-old then removed his glovesinside the Octagon as the crowd gave him a standing ovation andchanted his name.
For Barboza, having his children beside him made the momentparticularly emotional.
"The entire arena spontaneously chanting 'Barboza,' with my kids bymy side inside the Octagon — they had never been to one of myfights before," Barboza told Sherdog. "Definitely, that was themost emotional moment of my career."
Barboza said age wasn't the primary factor behind his decision.Instead, a severe left-eye injury suffered against LeroneMurphy proved to be the turning point. He emphasized that hecan still beat many fighters but acknowledged that competing at thehighest level is no longer realistic for him. Barboza then made hismessage to potential suitors clear.
"Managers, event promoters, please leave me alone. Don't offer meany fights," he said.
After dedicating his life to combat sports since childhood, Barbozaknows walking away will be an adjustment. However, retirement doesnot mean leaving the sport behind.
"Over these 32 years, I've had the opportunity to train with dozensof coaches from all over the world, and they taught me so much,"Barboza added. "Keeping all that knowledge to myself would beunfair, so I definitely want to pass it on."
#barboza
Just days after announcing the end of his 17-year professionalmixed martial arts career, the Brazilian has a message for managersand promoters who might try to entice him back intocompetition.
Barboza announced his retirement after suffering a fourthconsecutive defeat, getting finished by EstebanRibovics at UFC330 in Philadelphia. The 39-year-old then removed his glovesinside the Octagon as the crowd gave him a standing ovation andchanted his name.
For Barboza, having his children beside him made the momentparticularly emotional.
"The entire arena spontaneously chanting 'Barboza,' with my kids bymy side inside the Octagon — they had never been to one of myfights before," Barboza told Sherdog. "Definitely, that was themost emotional moment of my career."
Barboza said age wasn't the primary factor behind his decision.Instead, a severe left-eye injury suffered against LeroneMurphy proved to be the turning point. He emphasized that hecan still beat many fighters but acknowledged that competing at thehighest level is no longer realistic for him. Barboza then made hismessage to potential suitors clear.
"Managers, event promoters, please leave me alone. Don't offer meany fights," he said.
After dedicating his life to combat sports since childhood, Barbozaknows walking away will be an adjustment. However, retirement doesnot mean leaving the sport behind.
"Over these 32 years, I've had the opportunity to train with dozensof coaches from all over the world, and they taught me so much,"Barboza added. "Keeping all that knowledge to myself would beunfair, so I definitely want to pass it on."
#barboza
12 days ago
Tyson Fury has claimed his mega-fight with Anthony Joshua "doesn't look like it's going to happen" - as boxing finds new ways to torment its fans and test their patience over and over again.
The two defining fighters of a generation in British boxing were expected to finally meet in November but the two sides have so far failed to agree on where the bout would take place.
Despite both Joshua and Fury building their legacies in the UK, the most powerful figures at the fight's broadcasting partner Netflix appear to be adamant that the fight is staged in the US.
Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn appears resigned to this eventuality, despite reiterating his desire for it to take place in the UK, with Fury responding by calling both men "money-thirsty".
"Doesn't look like they're going to sign the fight and it doesn't look like it's going to happen all because Eddie Hearn and that want more money," Fury said in a video on Instagram on Friday.
#fury #going #joshua #hearn
The two defining fighters of a generation in British boxing were expected to finally meet in November but the two sides have so far failed to agree on where the bout would take place.
Despite both Joshua and Fury building their legacies in the UK, the most powerful figures at the fight's broadcasting partner Netflix appear to be adamant that the fight is staged in the US.
Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn appears resigned to this eventuality, despite reiterating his desire for it to take place in the UK, with Fury responding by calling both men "money-thirsty".
"Doesn't look like they're going to sign the fight and it doesn't look like it's going to happen all because Eddie Hearn and that want more money," Fury said in a video on Instagram on Friday.
#fury #going #joshua #hearn
14 days ago
Dana White and Eddie Hearn continue to be at odds with one another.
For much of 2026, White and Hearn have been engaged in a public feud, with the two even briefly discussing boxing each other. The primary friction between the two stems from White's move into boxing promotion with Zuffa Boxing — taking some of Hearn's fighters — and Hearn's move to take on a few high-profile MMA fighters to manage. But lately, their biggest issue has been the planned heavyweight superfight between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
Fury and Joshua are supposed to fight in their long-awaited matchup before the end of the year, and earlier this year, White claimed to be the promoter of the fight. Hearn disputes this claim, and when rumors began circulating on Tuesday that an announcement was imminent for the fight to take place in November at Madison Square Garden, Hearn shot that down.
"Actually, I should be suing Dana White, because what he's doing is, he's actually purporting to have the ability to stage the fight there, and he's using my client to do a venue deal that he has no rights to," Hearn told About Boxing. …
"The reality is, now, TKO are coming on, asking me if they can be involved. So Dana White's gone from being the promoter of the event to asking if he can be involved. And rather than going, 'Fuck off!' I'm saying, why? Why should I let you be involved in this event? Break it down for me. Tell me how it benefits Anthony Joshua. Tell me how it benefits Matchroom. Tell me how it benefits my fighters. What do you want to do? Do you want to do Matchroom vs. Zuffa 5 v. 5 on the undercard? OK, if it gives my fighters an opportunity.
#fighters #joshua #fight #tell
For much of 2026, White and Hearn have been engaged in a public feud, with the two even briefly discussing boxing each other. The primary friction between the two stems from White's move into boxing promotion with Zuffa Boxing — taking some of Hearn's fighters — and Hearn's move to take on a few high-profile MMA fighters to manage. But lately, their biggest issue has been the planned heavyweight superfight between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.
Fury and Joshua are supposed to fight in their long-awaited matchup before the end of the year, and earlier this year, White claimed to be the promoter of the fight. Hearn disputes this claim, and when rumors began circulating on Tuesday that an announcement was imminent for the fight to take place in November at Madison Square Garden, Hearn shot that down.
"Actually, I should be suing Dana White, because what he's doing is, he's actually purporting to have the ability to stage the fight there, and he's using my client to do a venue deal that he has no rights to," Hearn told About Boxing. …
"The reality is, now, TKO are coming on, asking me if they can be involved. So Dana White's gone from being the promoter of the event to asking if he can be involved. And rather than going, 'Fuck off!' I'm saying, why? Why should I let you be involved in this event? Break it down for me. Tell me how it benefits Anthony Joshua. Tell me how it benefits Matchroom. Tell me how it benefits my fighters. What do you want to do? Do you want to do Matchroom vs. Zuffa 5 v. 5 on the undercard? OK, if it gives my fighters an opportunity.
#fighters #joshua #fight #tell
15 days ago
IndyCar's Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham was seen by 913,000 viewers on Fox. The inaugural street race, which saw Andretti Global's Marcus Ericsson capture his first win in three years, outdid last year's Toronto race – which was viewed by 734,000.
The race peaked with 1.081 million viewers from 2:15 to 2:30 p.m. before Ericsson passed Romain Grosjean for the lead on Lap 86 of the 90-lap race. It was IndyCar's most-viewed Toronto-area race since 2012, when 1.129 million watched Dario Franchitti win in the Exhibition Place neighborhood.
IndyCar's first weekend at Markham faced a lot of scrutiny after the race's promoter, Green Savoree Racing Promotions, didn't have the new street course prepared for IndyCar and support series practice sessions Friday. The race moved to Markham after spending 37 of the last 40 seasons in Exhibition Place. With World Cup matches taking place at BMO Field this year and the downtown Toronto race being a rolling one-year contract, IndyCar moved to a suburb 20 miles out, where the series is set to race for another four years.
Fox is averaging 1.731 million viewers, which is up 16% from last year through 14 races (1.486 million). Aug. 9's Grand Prix of Portland received only 677,000 viewers – a 5% decrease from 2025.
IndyCar is in its second year of having all its races broadcast on Fox's network channel. Last summer, Fox acquired a one-third stake in Penske Entertainment, IndyCar's parent company. Markham marked the third straight race below 1 million viewers after eight of the first 11 races of the season surpassed 1 million (and only one was below 900,000). The Music City Grand Prix on July 20 had 775,000 viewers, although rain delay coverage following the men's FIFA World Cup final reached 2.878 million viewers.
#viewers #indycar
The race peaked with 1.081 million viewers from 2:15 to 2:30 p.m. before Ericsson passed Romain Grosjean for the lead on Lap 86 of the 90-lap race. It was IndyCar's most-viewed Toronto-area race since 2012, when 1.129 million watched Dario Franchitti win in the Exhibition Place neighborhood.
IndyCar's first weekend at Markham faced a lot of scrutiny after the race's promoter, Green Savoree Racing Promotions, didn't have the new street course prepared for IndyCar and support series practice sessions Friday. The race moved to Markham after spending 37 of the last 40 seasons in Exhibition Place. With World Cup matches taking place at BMO Field this year and the downtown Toronto race being a rolling one-year contract, IndyCar moved to a suburb 20 miles out, where the series is set to race for another four years.
Fox is averaging 1.731 million viewers, which is up 16% from last year through 14 races (1.486 million). Aug. 9's Grand Prix of Portland received only 677,000 viewers – a 5% decrease from 2025.
IndyCar is in its second year of having all its races broadcast on Fox's network channel. Last summer, Fox acquired a one-third stake in Penske Entertainment, IndyCar's parent company. Markham marked the third straight race below 1 million viewers after eight of the first 11 races of the season surpassed 1 million (and only one was below 900,000). The Music City Grand Prix on July 20 had 775,000 viewers, although rain delay coverage following the men's FIFA World Cup final reached 2.878 million viewers.
#viewers #indycar
15 days ago
IndyCar's Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham was seen by 913,000 viewers on Fox. The inaugural street race, which saw Andretti Global's Marcus Ericsson capture his first win in three years, outdid last year's Toronto race – which was viewed by 734,000.
The race peaked with 1.081 million viewers from 2:15 to 2:30 p.m. before Ericsson passed Romain Grosjean for the lead on Lap 86 of the 90-lap race. It was IndyCar's most-viewed Toronto-area race since 2012, when 1.129 million watched Dario Franchitti win in the Exhibition Place neighborhood.
IndyCar's first weekend at Markham faced a lot of scrutiny after the race's promoter, Green Savoree Racing Promotions, didn't have the new street course prepared for IndyCar and support series practice sessions Friday. The race moved to Markham after spending 37 of the last 40 seasons in Exhibition Place. With World Cup matches taking place at BMO Field this year and the downtown Toronto race being a rolling one-year contract, IndyCar moved to a suburb 20 miles out, where the series is set to race for another four years.
Fox is averaging 1.731 million viewers, which is up 16% from last year through 14 races (1.486 million). Aug. 9's Grand Prix of Portland received only 677,000 viewers – a 5% decrease from 2025.
IndyCar is in its second year of having all its races broadcast on Fox's network channel. Last summer, Fox acquired a one-third stake in Penske Entertainment, IndyCar's parent company. Markham marked the third straight race below 1 million viewers after eight of the first 11 races of the season surpassed 1 million (and only one was below 900,000). The Music City Grand Prix on July 20 had 775,000 viewers, although rain delay coverage following the men's FIFA World Cup final reached 2.878 million viewers.
#last #first
The race peaked with 1.081 million viewers from 2:15 to 2:30 p.m. before Ericsson passed Romain Grosjean for the lead on Lap 86 of the 90-lap race. It was IndyCar's most-viewed Toronto-area race since 2012, when 1.129 million watched Dario Franchitti win in the Exhibition Place neighborhood.
IndyCar's first weekend at Markham faced a lot of scrutiny after the race's promoter, Green Savoree Racing Promotions, didn't have the new street course prepared for IndyCar and support series practice sessions Friday. The race moved to Markham after spending 37 of the last 40 seasons in Exhibition Place. With World Cup matches taking place at BMO Field this year and the downtown Toronto race being a rolling one-year contract, IndyCar moved to a suburb 20 miles out, where the series is set to race for another four years.
Fox is averaging 1.731 million viewers, which is up 16% from last year through 14 races (1.486 million). Aug. 9's Grand Prix of Portland received only 677,000 viewers – a 5% decrease from 2025.
IndyCar is in its second year of having all its races broadcast on Fox's network channel. Last summer, Fox acquired a one-third stake in Penske Entertainment, IndyCar's parent company. Markham marked the third straight race below 1 million viewers after eight of the first 11 races of the season surpassed 1 million (and only one was below 900,000). The Music City Grand Prix on July 20 had 775,000 viewers, although rain delay coverage following the men's FIFA World Cup final reached 2.878 million viewers.
#last #first
18 days ago
MARKHAM, Ontario – After IndyCar had to call off Friday's practice session for the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham, cars have made it on track for the rescheduled session Saturday morning.
With the race's promoter, Green Savoree Racing Promotions, being behind on preparation for the new street course in Markham, all on-track activities were placed on hold Friday before being eventually postponed to Saturday. This is the first year that the series is racing at the 12-turn, 2.19-mile street course after racing at Exhibition Place in downtown Toronto for 37 of the last 40 years.
"IndyCar is incredibly disappointed that our promoter was not able to complete the track build on time, despite significant support from our team on site," IndyCar president Doug Boles said in a news release. "Ontario has always been a magnificent market for our sport and the number of spectators that attended today is a shining example of that. New events can always pose logistical challenges and we join in the frustration of our loyal fans and apologize.
"Once we hit the track, we believe the circuit will be spectacular. We would like to thank the city of Markham for the major support it has made to provide IndyCar a layout, which is fast, technical and will put on a terrific show on Sunday."
Green Savoree Racing Promotions needed to receive and install the necessary tire packs for the tire barriers in runoff areas. The three support series in attendance – USF 2000, USF Pro 2000 and NASCAR Canada – completed their practice sessions Saturday morning before Indy cars got on track. IndyCar has another practice at 2:30 before qualifying at 6:30. The race begins at noon on Sunday.
#ontario
With the race's promoter, Green Savoree Racing Promotions, being behind on preparation for the new street course in Markham, all on-track activities were placed on hold Friday before being eventually postponed to Saturday. This is the first year that the series is racing at the 12-turn, 2.19-mile street course after racing at Exhibition Place in downtown Toronto for 37 of the last 40 years.
"IndyCar is incredibly disappointed that our promoter was not able to complete the track build on time, despite significant support from our team on site," IndyCar president Doug Boles said in a news release. "Ontario has always been a magnificent market for our sport and the number of spectators that attended today is a shining example of that. New events can always pose logistical challenges and we join in the frustration of our loyal fans and apologize.
"Once we hit the track, we believe the circuit will be spectacular. We would like to thank the city of Markham for the major support it has made to provide IndyCar a layout, which is fast, technical and will put on a terrific show on Sunday."
Green Savoree Racing Promotions needed to receive and install the necessary tire packs for the tire barriers in runoff areas. The three support series in attendance – USF 2000, USF Pro 2000 and NASCAR Canada – completed their practice sessions Saturday morning before Indy cars got on track. IndyCar has another practice at 2:30 before qualifying at 6:30. The race begins at noon on Sunday.
#ontario
18 days ago
MARKHAM, Ontario – After IndyCar had to call off Friday's practice session for the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham, cars have made it on track for the rescheduled session Saturday morning.
With the race's promoter, Green Savoree Racing Promotions, being behind on preparation for the new street course in Markham, all on-track activities were placed on hold Friday before being eventually postponed to Saturday. This is the first year that the series is racing at the 12-turn, 2.19-mile street course after racing at Exhibition Place in downtown Toronto for 37 of the last 40 years.
"IndyCar is incredibly disappointed that our promoter was not able to complete the track build on time, despite significant support from our team on site," IndyCar president Doug Boles said in a news release. "Ontario has always been a magnificent market for our sport and the number of spectators that attended today is a shining example of that. New events can always pose logistical challenges and we join in the frustration of our loyal fans and apologize.
"Once we hit the track, we believe the circuit will be spectacular. We would like to thank the city of Markham for the major support it has made to provide IndyCar a layout, which is fast, technical and will put on a terrific show on Sunday."
Green Savoree Racing Promotions needed to receive and install the necessary tire packs for the tire barriers in runoff areas. The three support series in attendance – USF 2000, USF Pro 2000 and NASCAR Canada – completed their practice sessions Saturday morning before Indy cars got on track. IndyCar has another practice at 2:30 before qualifying at 6:30. The race begins at noon on Sunday.
#track #racing #ontario
With the race's promoter, Green Savoree Racing Promotions, being behind on preparation for the new street course in Markham, all on-track activities were placed on hold Friday before being eventually postponed to Saturday. This is the first year that the series is racing at the 12-turn, 2.19-mile street course after racing at Exhibition Place in downtown Toronto for 37 of the last 40 years.
"IndyCar is incredibly disappointed that our promoter was not able to complete the track build on time, despite significant support from our team on site," IndyCar president Doug Boles said in a news release. "Ontario has always been a magnificent market for our sport and the number of spectators that attended today is a shining example of that. New events can always pose logistical challenges and we join in the frustration of our loyal fans and apologize.
"Once we hit the track, we believe the circuit will be spectacular. We would like to thank the city of Markham for the major support it has made to provide IndyCar a layout, which is fast, technical and will put on a terrific show on Sunday."
Green Savoree Racing Promotions needed to receive and install the necessary tire packs for the tire barriers in runoff areas. The three support series in attendance – USF 2000, USF Pro 2000 and NASCAR Canada – completed their practice sessions Saturday morning before Indy cars got on track. IndyCar has another practice at 2:30 before qualifying at 6:30. The race begins at noon on Sunday.
#track #racing #ontario
19 days ago
IndyCar and IMS President Doug Boles during the public drivers' meeting prior to the NTT IndyCar Series 109th Running of the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on May 24, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael L. Levitt/Lumen via Getty Images)
In what could have been a great opening day for IndyCar on the streets of Markham, Ontario turned into bitter disappointment for the huge throng of fans in the grandstands and for IndyCar President Doug Boles.
Instead of racing action, the only wheels turned on the 2.19-mile, 12-turn road course was construction machinery still trying to complete the track build. Without enough key tire packs in place to make for a safe impact area, IndyCar officials cancelled all track activity on Friday and issued a revised schedule for Saturday.
That left Boles furious that the track was not ready in time by the promoter of this weekend's event, and a key, longtime IndyCar ally, Green Savoree Promotions.
"IndyCar is incredibly disappointed that our promoter was not able to complete the track build on time, despite significant support from our team on site," Boles said. "Ontario has always been a magnificent market for our sport and the number of spectators that attended today is a shining example of that. New events can always pose logistical challenges and we join in the frustration of our loyal fans and apologize.
#indycar #boles #president #doug
In what could have been a great opening day for IndyCar on the streets of Markham, Ontario turned into bitter disappointment for the huge throng of fans in the grandstands and for IndyCar President Doug Boles.
Instead of racing action, the only wheels turned on the 2.19-mile, 12-turn road course was construction machinery still trying to complete the track build. Without enough key tire packs in place to make for a safe impact area, IndyCar officials cancelled all track activity on Friday and issued a revised schedule for Saturday.
That left Boles furious that the track was not ready in time by the promoter of this weekend's event, and a key, longtime IndyCar ally, Green Savoree Promotions.
"IndyCar is incredibly disappointed that our promoter was not able to complete the track build on time, despite significant support from our team on site," Boles said. "Ontario has always been a magnificent market for our sport and the number of spectators that attended today is a shining example of that. New events can always pose logistical challenges and we join in the frustration of our loyal fans and apologize.
#indycar #boles #president #doug
19 days ago
NASCAR is once again leaving Rockingham Speedway.
"The Rock," the iconic 0.940-mile oval track in North Carolina's Richmond County, has hosted races for the Craftsman Truck Series and the second-tier O'Reilly Auto Parts Series in each of the last two seasons after a 12-year absence.
But Rockingham's promoter — Track Enterprises — announced on Friday, Aug. 14 that NASCAR racing will not be held at the track in 2027. In a statement, Track Enterprises says the decision comes "amid overall uncertainty at the facility."
The owner of the speedway is Darryl Cuttell, and he is currently grappling with a financial strain as he battles liens and lawsuits totaling more than half-a-billion dollars. Elon Musk's ****** eXAI alleges it has overpaid between $500 to $800 million for services from Darana Hybrid, an international electro-mechanical contractor company that Cuttell owns.
Cuttell also owns the International Hot Rod ****** ociation (IHRA). Amid Cuttell's financial troubles, IHRA has laid off employees and canceled some of its racing series.
#speedway
"The Rock," the iconic 0.940-mile oval track in North Carolina's Richmond County, has hosted races for the Craftsman Truck Series and the second-tier O'Reilly Auto Parts Series in each of the last two seasons after a 12-year absence.
But Rockingham's promoter — Track Enterprises — announced on Friday, Aug. 14 that NASCAR racing will not be held at the track in 2027. In a statement, Track Enterprises says the decision comes "amid overall uncertainty at the facility."
The owner of the speedway is Darryl Cuttell, and he is currently grappling with a financial strain as he battles liens and lawsuits totaling more than half-a-billion dollars. Elon Musk's ****** eXAI alleges it has overpaid between $500 to $800 million for services from Darana Hybrid, an international electro-mechanical contractor company that Cuttell owns.
Cuttell also owns the International Hot Rod ****** ociation (IHRA). Amid Cuttell's financial troubles, IHRA has laid off employees and canceled some of its racing series.
#speedway
19 days ago
MARKHAM, Ontario – IndyCar's first weekend on the streets of Markham has gotten off to a disastrous start, with the series having to call off its Friday practice session for the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham.
On Thursday, it became clear to those in the paddock that the race's promoter, Green Savoree Racing Promotions, was well behind on its preparation for the new street race on the 12-turn, 2.19-mile track. Despite the series reiterating its intentions to race Thursday evening and throughout the day Friday, Green Savoree Racing Promotions never got the track to a place that met the regulations of the FIA and IndyCar's competition team.
IndyCar's first open gate day in Markham collapsed as each hour passed, and no race cars made it on track. Throughout the day, spectators – who had free admission to Friday's (lack of) activities – were left mainly in the dark about postponements and eventual cancellations that took place. Green Savoree Racing Promotions failed to give consistent public address updates on changes to the schedule, even to the point of having teams pack cars back into transporters and drivers leaving the track before IndyCar made the postponement public.
Mishaps at new street circuits are bound to happen. The most recent example being in 2021, when grandstands were still being built the morning of the inaugural Music City Grand Prix in downtown Nashville. But Green Savoree Racing Promotions – which also manages the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and Grand Prix of Portland – was unprepared for Friday to a level that is somewhat embarrassing for the promoter and the series that partners with it for multiple events per year.
"IndyCar is incredibly disappointed that our promoter was not able to complete the track build on time, despite significant support from our team on site," IndyCar president Doug Boles said in a news release. "Ontario has always been a magnificent market for our sport and the number of spectators that attended today is a shining example of that. New events can always pose logistical challenges and we join in the frustration of our loyal fans and apologize.
#promotions
On Thursday, it became clear to those in the paddock that the race's promoter, Green Savoree Racing Promotions, was well behind on its preparation for the new street race on the 12-turn, 2.19-mile track. Despite the series reiterating its intentions to race Thursday evening and throughout the day Friday, Green Savoree Racing Promotions never got the track to a place that met the regulations of the FIA and IndyCar's competition team.
IndyCar's first open gate day in Markham collapsed as each hour passed, and no race cars made it on track. Throughout the day, spectators – who had free admission to Friday's (lack of) activities – were left mainly in the dark about postponements and eventual cancellations that took place. Green Savoree Racing Promotions failed to give consistent public address updates on changes to the schedule, even to the point of having teams pack cars back into transporters and drivers leaving the track before IndyCar made the postponement public.
Mishaps at new street circuits are bound to happen. The most recent example being in 2021, when grandstands were still being built the morning of the inaugural Music City Grand Prix in downtown Nashville. But Green Savoree Racing Promotions – which also manages the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course and Grand Prix of Portland – was unprepared for Friday to a level that is somewhat embarrassing for the promoter and the series that partners with it for multiple events per year.
"IndyCar is incredibly disappointed that our promoter was not able to complete the track build on time, despite significant support from our team on site," IndyCar president Doug Boles said in a news release. "Ontario has always been a magnificent market for our sport and the number of spectators that attended today is a shining example of that. New events can always pose logistical challenges and we join in the frustration of our loyal fans and apologize.
#promotions
19 days ago
MARKHAM, Ontario (AP) — IndyCar officials called off the first day of practice and qualifying Friday at the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham after the race promoter failed to complete the track.
The event is in its first year in Markham after leaving Toronto's Exhibition Place, the race site since its inaugural running in 1986.
Once the track is completed, IndyCar will inspect the circuit to ensure it's safe. Officials hoped to squeeze all the activities scheduled for Friday into the Saturday schedule ahead of the race Sunday.
The temporary circuit, built for the first time this week, runs between Kennedy Road, Enterprise Boulevard, the Unionville GO tracks and Highway 407.
Some of the incomplete features included a pedestrian bridge over Enterprise Boulevard that would connect parking to the main spectator compound as well as ports cut into safety fencing for marshals to wave hazard flags through.
#first #ontario #track
The event is in its first year in Markham after leaving Toronto's Exhibition Place, the race site since its inaugural running in 1986.
Once the track is completed, IndyCar will inspect the circuit to ensure it's safe. Officials hoped to squeeze all the activities scheduled for Friday into the Saturday schedule ahead of the race Sunday.
The temporary circuit, built for the first time this week, runs between Kennedy Road, Enterprise Boulevard, the Unionville GO tracks and Highway 407.
Some of the incomplete features included a pedestrian bridge over Enterprise Boulevard that would connect parking to the main spectator compound as well as ports cut into safety fencing for marshals to wave hazard flags through.
#first #ontario #track
19 days ago
MARKHAM, Ontario (AP) — IndyCar officials called off the first day of practice and qualifying Friday at the Ontario Honda Dealers Indy at Markham after the race promoter failed to complete the track.
The event is in its first year in Markham after leaving Toronto's Exhibition Place, the race site since its inaugural running in 1986.
Once the track is completed, IndyCar will inspect the circuit to ensure it's safe. Officials hoped to squeeze all the activities scheduled for Friday into the Saturday schedule ahead of the race Sunday.
The temporary circuit, built for the first time this week, runs between Kennedy Road, Enterprise Boulevard, the Unionville GO tracks and Highway 407.
Some of the incomplete features included a pedestrian bridge over Enterprise Boulevard that would connect parking to the main spectator compound as well as ports cut into safety fencing for marshals to wave hazard flags through.
#indycar
The event is in its first year in Markham after leaving Toronto's Exhibition Place, the race site since its inaugural running in 1986.
Once the track is completed, IndyCar will inspect the circuit to ensure it's safe. Officials hoped to squeeze all the activities scheduled for Friday into the Saturday schedule ahead of the race Sunday.
The temporary circuit, built for the first time this week, runs between Kennedy Road, Enterprise Boulevard, the Unionville GO tracks and Highway 407.
Some of the incomplete features included a pedestrian bridge over Enterprise Boulevard that would connect parking to the main spectator compound as well as ports cut into safety fencing for marshals to wave hazard flags through.
#indycar
22 days ago
Daniel Cormier wants Ali Abdelaziz to pump the brakes on PFL champion Usman Nurmagomedov's chances against top UFC lightweights.
Nurmagomedov (22-0) is a free agent after knocking out Archie Colgan in the first-round of the PFL New York main event earlier this month. If Nurmagomedov does end up signing with the UFC, his manager, Abdelaziz, claimed on the "Pound 4 Pound" podcast that he would have his way with Ilia Topuria, Paddy Pimblett, Charles Oliveira, and Max Holloway – which Cormier thinks is an absurd statement to make.
"I get it, that's your guy, you're a promoter, but you're speaking about the absolute best guys in the world," Cormier said on his YouTube channel. "Now, to have faith and think Usman Nurmagomedov can fight these guys, absolutely. ... I think Usman Nurmagomedov is special. I think Usman Nurmagomedov, if he comes to the UFC, immediately becomes one of the top contenders in the organization. I have seen this young man train. I have seen him work. I know that he has championship-level experience."
While Nurmagomedov got some of that championship-level experience through two tough outings against Paul Hughes, Cormier said the UFC would be a step up in competition.
"As good as the Irish kid is, the UFC guys are better," Cormier said. "So you would imagine that these fights would be ultra competitive, but that's the beauty in having a guy separate himself from the world in a different organization. That's the beauty because while what Ali says is very out there, when he looks at that group of fighters, he would expect that because that's all they've really done. Umar has done very well. Khabib dominated; Islam has dominated.
#cormier #think #pound
Nurmagomedov (22-0) is a free agent after knocking out Archie Colgan in the first-round of the PFL New York main event earlier this month. If Nurmagomedov does end up signing with the UFC, his manager, Abdelaziz, claimed on the "Pound 4 Pound" podcast that he would have his way with Ilia Topuria, Paddy Pimblett, Charles Oliveira, and Max Holloway – which Cormier thinks is an absurd statement to make.
"I get it, that's your guy, you're a promoter, but you're speaking about the absolute best guys in the world," Cormier said on his YouTube channel. "Now, to have faith and think Usman Nurmagomedov can fight these guys, absolutely. ... I think Usman Nurmagomedov is special. I think Usman Nurmagomedov, if he comes to the UFC, immediately becomes one of the top contenders in the organization. I have seen this young man train. I have seen him work. I know that he has championship-level experience."
While Nurmagomedov got some of that championship-level experience through two tough outings against Paul Hughes, Cormier said the UFC would be a step up in competition.
"As good as the Irish kid is, the UFC guys are better," Cormier said. "So you would imagine that these fights would be ultra competitive, but that's the beauty in having a guy separate himself from the world in a different organization. That's the beauty because while what Ali says is very out there, when he looks at that group of fighters, he would expect that because that's all they've really done. Umar has done very well. Khabib dominated; Islam has dominated.
#cormier #think #pound
22 days ago
Claressa Shields knows how to draw a crowd. Now the boxing star is adding extra glitz and glam.
High-profile rappers will be part of the show and famous boxers are expected to be in attendance when Shields fights Kaye Scott for the women's WBC and WBA world middleweight ****** les Saturday, Aug. 15 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta.
Shields, the two-time Olympic gold medalist, will be accompanied on her ring walk by Lotta, the Grammy-award nominated rapper. YG and Diamond the Body, two other notable rappers, will accompany two other fighters on their ring walks.
Also, Shields' team is saving VIP seats for retired boxer star Floyd Mayweather Jr., fellow retired boxing star Terrence Crawford and current boxing sensation Shakur Stevenson, and reserving VIP spots for two more rappers, Kevin Gates and Shields' boyfriend, Papoose.
"Claressa is a real bona fide star,'' Dmitriy Salita, Shields' promoter, told USA TODAY Sports. "And I think she's the biggest selling star.''
#rappers #ring #retired
High-profile rappers will be part of the show and famous boxers are expected to be in attendance when Shields fights Kaye Scott for the women's WBC and WBA world middleweight ****** les Saturday, Aug. 15 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta.
Shields, the two-time Olympic gold medalist, will be accompanied on her ring walk by Lotta, the Grammy-award nominated rapper. YG and Diamond the Body, two other notable rappers, will accompany two other fighters on their ring walks.
Also, Shields' team is saving VIP seats for retired boxer star Floyd Mayweather Jr., fellow retired boxing star Terrence Crawford and current boxing sensation Shakur Stevenson, and reserving VIP spots for two more rappers, Kevin Gates and Shields' boyfriend, Papoose.
"Claressa is a real bona fide star,'' Dmitriy Salita, Shields' promoter, told USA TODAY Sports. "And I think she's the biggest selling star.''
#rappers #ring #retired
27 days ago
Our ***** ysts just identified a stock with the potential to be the next Nvidia. Tell us how you invest and we'll show you why it's our #1 pick. Tap here.
Delivered 16% year-over-year growth in run-rate EPS, supported by strong underlying fundamentals and 14 consecutive quarters of generating over $400 million in cash.
Prioritized margin integrity over sales volume in Individual Retirement, strategically pivoting capital toward Institutional Markets where risk-adjusted returns were more attractive during the quarter.
Achieved a 19-point year-over-year increase in Plan Sponsor Net Promoter Score in Group Retirement, driven by a top-to-bottom commitment to improving customer experience.
Leveraged automated underwriting for over 80% of new Life business, contributing to run-rate earnings that exceeded management's typical guidance.
#year #Retirement #delivered #individual
Delivered 16% year-over-year growth in run-rate EPS, supported by strong underlying fundamentals and 14 consecutive quarters of generating over $400 million in cash.
Prioritized margin integrity over sales volume in Individual Retirement, strategically pivoting capital toward Institutional Markets where risk-adjusted returns were more attractive during the quarter.
Achieved a 19-point year-over-year increase in Plan Sponsor Net Promoter Score in Group Retirement, driven by a top-to-bottom commitment to improving customer experience.
Leveraged automated underwriting for over 80% of new Life business, contributing to run-rate earnings that exceeded management's typical guidance.
#year #Retirement #delivered #individual
27 days ago
Queensberry promoter Frank Warren has said that Irish boxer Lee Reeves is "making progress" after being hospitalised following his fight in Dublin on Saturday night.
The 31-year-old's condition was described as "critical but stable" after he was admitted for treatment following his defeat to Gary Cully.
Reeves was fighting for the vacant BUI Celtic super-lightweight ******* le but was knocked out in the 10th round at the 3Arena.
The Limerick southpaw was stretchered out of the ring after the fight.
An update provided by Warren on Thursday struck a positive note.
#following #frank
The 31-year-old's condition was described as "critical but stable" after he was admitted for treatment following his defeat to Gary Cully.
Reeves was fighting for the vacant BUI Celtic super-lightweight ******* le but was knocked out in the 10th round at the 3Arena.
The Limerick southpaw was stretchered out of the ring after the fight.
An update provided by Warren on Thursday struck a positive note.
#following #frank
27 days ago
Promoter Frank Warren has refused to say if the 'Battle of Britain' between former world heavyweight champions Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will take place in the United Kingdom or the United States.
Eddie Hearn, Joshua's promoter, insisted last month the bout must take place in the UK under the terms of the fight deal signed by both camps, with London's Wembley Stadium seemingly the most likely venue.
But Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh reportedly wants to stage the contest at a time that would attract the largest global audience.
But were the fight to be held at Wembley, any plans to stage the bout with a 2:00 am (0200 GMT) start would require an exemption to the stadium's curfew restrictions.
There would be no such issues should the long-awaited contest be held instead at New York's Madison Square Garden.
#bout #contest
Eddie Hearn, Joshua's promoter, insisted last month the bout must take place in the UK under the terms of the fight deal signed by both camps, with London's Wembley Stadium seemingly the most likely venue.
But Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh reportedly wants to stage the contest at a time that would attract the largest global audience.
But were the fight to be held at Wembley, any plans to stage the bout with a 2:00 am (0200 GMT) start would require an exemption to the stadium's curfew restrictions.
There would be no such issues should the long-awaited contest be held instead at New York's Madison Square Garden.
#bout #contest
28 days ago
Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore has revealed that he once joined forces with Donald Trump to explore the possibility of bringing a Formula 1 race to New York, with the proposed venue ultimately located in New Jersey. Despite the ambition behind the project, the plan ultimately failed to materialise.
Today, Formula 1 can count the United States among its strongest and fastest-growing markets, with three Grands Prix on the calendar: Austin, Miami and Las Vegas, the latter returning to the championship in 2023. The sport has also enjoyed a significant surge in popularity across the country in recent years, with growing fan interest and an expanding commercial presence.
Donald Trump's rise to mainstream fame accelerated through The Apprentice, the reality TV show that turned him from a businessman into a household name across the United States. Years later, Briatore took on the same role in the Italian version of The Apprentice, becoming the face of the programme in Italy.
Speaking to The Race, the Italian revealed that he enlisted Donald Trump's help because of his experience as a promoter, despite the future US president knowing very little about Formula 1 at the time. Briatore explained that he brought Trump and Bernie Ecclestone together to explore potential locations for a race in the New York area.
"Donald had no idea as well about Formula 1 - but he's a great promoter. At the time, he promoted boxing, he promoted everything in Vegas, etc... I made Donald talk with Bernie (Ecclestone). I was in the office of Donald. We put in (a) video with Bernie to (find) what was the best place in New York to do the race.
#race
Today, Formula 1 can count the United States among its strongest and fastest-growing markets, with three Grands Prix on the calendar: Austin, Miami and Las Vegas, the latter returning to the championship in 2023. The sport has also enjoyed a significant surge in popularity across the country in recent years, with growing fan interest and an expanding commercial presence.
Donald Trump's rise to mainstream fame accelerated through The Apprentice, the reality TV show that turned him from a businessman into a household name across the United States. Years later, Briatore took on the same role in the Italian version of The Apprentice, becoming the face of the programme in Italy.
Speaking to The Race, the Italian revealed that he enlisted Donald Trump's help because of his experience as a promoter, despite the future US president knowing very little about Formula 1 at the time. Briatore explained that he brought Trump and Bernie Ecclestone together to explore potential locations for a race in the New York area.
"Donald had no idea as well about Formula 1 - but he's a great promoter. At the time, he promoted boxing, he promoted everything in Vegas, etc... I made Donald talk with Bernie (Ecclestone). I was in the office of Donald. We put in (a) video with Bernie to (find) what was the best place in New York to do the race.
#race
29 days ago
Despite a standing order to defend his WBC cruiserweight ***** le against David Benavidez, Noel Mikaelian will meet Jai Opetaia in the co-feature of Zuffa Boxing's Ryan Garcia vs Conor Benn show in Las Vegas, Nevada.
"This is a huge card, and I look forward to showing the world once again why I'm the best cruiserweight on the planet," Opetaia said. "Credit to Noel for stepping up to the plate while others — yes, David Benavidez, I'm talking about you — continue to run and hide."
"This is a massive fight for Jai, and it's refreshing to see a top-tier cruiserweight step forward when so many continue to avoid the challenge," said Mick Francis, Opetaia's longtime manager. "He's proud to defend the Zuffa Boxing and Ring ***** les on the biggest stage."
"When I step into the ring on September 12 against Jai Opetaia in Las Vegas, I intend to defend my world championship. This is the fight I've wanted since becoming a two-time world champion, and I'm ready to deliver," Mikaelian said. "I haven't fought since December 2025 because of circumstances outside of my control. I refused to stay inactive. Champions are meant to defend their ***** les, and that's exactly what I'm prepared to do."
It's certainly a better matchup than the Glanton fight that kicked off this whole debacle in the first place. but I personally would not put any stake in this happening. Mikaelian (28-3, 12 KO) is under contract with Don King, who remains as vexatiously litigant as ever and has a long history of quashing any attempt by his fighters to compete outside of his purview. Dan Rafael reports that King, who'd reached a deal with Benavidez promoter Sampson Lewkowicz, will follow his usual M.O. and "likely" file suit.
#opetaia
"This is a huge card, and I look forward to showing the world once again why I'm the best cruiserweight on the planet," Opetaia said. "Credit to Noel for stepping up to the plate while others — yes, David Benavidez, I'm talking about you — continue to run and hide."
"This is a massive fight for Jai, and it's refreshing to see a top-tier cruiserweight step forward when so many continue to avoid the challenge," said Mick Francis, Opetaia's longtime manager. "He's proud to defend the Zuffa Boxing and Ring ***** les on the biggest stage."
"When I step into the ring on September 12 against Jai Opetaia in Las Vegas, I intend to defend my world championship. This is the fight I've wanted since becoming a two-time world champion, and I'm ready to deliver," Mikaelian said. "I haven't fought since December 2025 because of circumstances outside of my control. I refused to stay inactive. Champions are meant to defend their ***** les, and that's exactly what I'm prepared to do."
It's certainly a better matchup than the Glanton fight that kicked off this whole debacle in the first place. but I personally would not put any stake in this happening. Mikaelian (28-3, 12 KO) is under contract with Don King, who remains as vexatiously litigant as ever and has a long history of quashing any attempt by his fighters to compete outside of his purview. Dan Rafael reports that King, who'd reached a deal with Benavidez promoter Sampson Lewkowicz, will follow his usual M.O. and "likely" file suit.
#opetaia
1 month ago
Sky Sports's new documentary is stacked with sobering soundbites. In one scene, boxing coach Joe Gallagher recalls hearing a mother ask her son: "Are all the lows worth that one high?" The answer, of course, was "yes". As Gallagher puts it: "Everyone wants their own Rocky story."
But as Sky explores, that doesn't always mean a rousing underdog story. Rocky's sequels showed Sylvester Stallone's character struggling with retirement, and this is the premise of The Final Round.
Releasing on Friday, the film features interviews with former world champions like Johnny Nelson and Josh Warrington, while Gallagher and Dominic Ingle are among the coaches to speak, promoter Eddie Hearn features, and commentator Andy Clarke weaves together themes of "addiction", sacrifice, and ego.
Former world champion Johnny Nelson (Getty)
The documentary even includes one of the final interviews with the late, great Ricky Hatton, whose internal fights after retiring matched any that he had in the ring.
#johnny #nelson #story #interviews
But as Sky explores, that doesn't always mean a rousing underdog story. Rocky's sequels showed Sylvester Stallone's character struggling with retirement, and this is the premise of The Final Round.
Releasing on Friday, the film features interviews with former world champions like Johnny Nelson and Josh Warrington, while Gallagher and Dominic Ingle are among the coaches to speak, promoter Eddie Hearn features, and commentator Andy Clarke weaves together themes of "addiction", sacrifice, and ego.
Former world champion Johnny Nelson (Getty)
The documentary even includes one of the final interviews with the late, great Ricky Hatton, whose internal fights after retiring matched any that he had in the ring.
#johnny #nelson #story #interviews
1 month ago
Canelo Alvarez has opened up on his put-down of Max Kellerman, 10 months after the Mexican fighter fired up fans with his response to the commentator.
At the press conference for Canelo’s fight with Terence Crawford, Kellerman lauded Dana White – who was promoting a major boxing event for the first time – for allegedly building the UFC into something bigger than boxing.
At the time, Kellerman said: “Dana White is the greatest combat-sports promoter in my lifetime. He built an institution. You know why boxing is not as popular as it used to be anymore, right? UFC is really popular. That’s because of Dana White. He built something like the NBA.”
Fans in Las Vegas’s T-Mobile Arena booed Kellerman at this point, to which he said: “Stop now, because he’s about to do it again, for boxing now. You want an NBA or an NFL for boxing? Here it comes.”
Canelo, 36, took issue with this comment, telling Kellerman: “Hey Max, boxing is always [getting] bigger and bigger and bigger. Don’t say boxing is not big enough. Boxing is big, you know how big boxing is.”
#boxing #kellerman #canelo #fans
At the press conference for Canelo’s fight with Terence Crawford, Kellerman lauded Dana White – who was promoting a major boxing event for the first time – for allegedly building the UFC into something bigger than boxing.
At the time, Kellerman said: “Dana White is the greatest combat-sports promoter in my lifetime. He built an institution. You know why boxing is not as popular as it used to be anymore, right? UFC is really popular. That’s because of Dana White. He built something like the NBA.”
Fans in Las Vegas’s T-Mobile Arena booed Kellerman at this point, to which he said: “Stop now, because he’s about to do it again, for boxing now. You want an NBA or an NFL for boxing? Here it comes.”
Canelo, 36, took issue with this comment, telling Kellerman: “Hey Max, boxing is always [getting] bigger and bigger and bigger. Don’t say boxing is not big enough. Boxing is big, you know how big boxing is.”
#boxing #kellerman #canelo #fans
1 month ago
Ryan Garcia won’t be bound by guidelines if he ever signs with Zuffa Boxing.
Garcia is scheduled to put his WBC welterweight ***** le on the line against Zuffa Boxing’s Conor Benn on Sept. 12 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. While the particulars of the bout are unknown to Garcia, he believes it will be co-promoted. Furthermore, Garcia is certain that he will not be wearing Zuffa fight gear and claims he will never wear a Zuffa uniform even if he signs with the promotion.
Garcia explains that he likes to express himself by designing his own outfit and walkout music. He vows to never sign with Zuffa Boxing if they don’t allow him to express himself the way he wants. However, Garcia complimented Dana White for the way he is building up Zuffa Boxing.
“Even if I ever signed with Zuffa, I will make sure that I never wear a Zuffa outfit,” Garcia told Ariel Helwani. “I'm wearing my own outfits, doing my own thing. If you don't like it, then I'll never sign with you. At the end of the day, I love the whole ‘design your outfit, design your walkout.’ I'm not about to be a robot. I don't care how much money you offer me. I just love the whole show of it and I feel like they should let certain fighters do that. I would like to express myself… I think Dana White's doing an amazing job with Zuffa so far... I like how they run the press conferences... I think it's better.”
Zuffa Boxing is White’s venture into the world of pugilism. The Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO wants to bring boxing under a centralized UFC-style model, but is facing fierce competition from traditional boxing promoters like Eddie Hearn.
"If I ever signed with Zuffa, I will make sure that I never wear a Zuffa outfit. I'm wearing my own outfits, doing my own thing.
If you don't like it, then I'll never sign with you... I'm not about to be a robot, I don't care how much money you offer me."
"I think Dana White's… pic.twitter.com/QOh7pIS3h0— Ariel Helwani (arielhelwani) July 22, 2026
#like #OUTFIT #don 't #wearing
Garcia is scheduled to put his WBC welterweight ***** le on the line against Zuffa Boxing’s Conor Benn on Sept. 12 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. While the particulars of the bout are unknown to Garcia, he believes it will be co-promoted. Furthermore, Garcia is certain that he will not be wearing Zuffa fight gear and claims he will never wear a Zuffa uniform even if he signs with the promotion.
Garcia explains that he likes to express himself by designing his own outfit and walkout music. He vows to never sign with Zuffa Boxing if they don’t allow him to express himself the way he wants. However, Garcia complimented Dana White for the way he is building up Zuffa Boxing.
“Even if I ever signed with Zuffa, I will make sure that I never wear a Zuffa outfit,” Garcia told Ariel Helwani. “I'm wearing my own outfits, doing my own thing. If you don't like it, then I'll never sign with you. At the end of the day, I love the whole ‘design your outfit, design your walkout.’ I'm not about to be a robot. I don't care how much money you offer me. I just love the whole show of it and I feel like they should let certain fighters do that. I would like to express myself… I think Dana White's doing an amazing job with Zuffa so far... I like how they run the press conferences... I think it's better.”
Zuffa Boxing is White’s venture into the world of pugilism. The Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO wants to bring boxing under a centralized UFC-style model, but is facing fierce competition from traditional boxing promoters like Eddie Hearn.
"If I ever signed with Zuffa, I will make sure that I never wear a Zuffa outfit. I'm wearing my own outfits, doing my own thing.
If you don't like it, then I'll never sign with you... I'm not about to be a robot, I don't care how much money you offer me."
"I think Dana White's… pic.twitter.com/QOh7pIS3h0— Ariel Helwani (arielhelwani) July 22, 2026
#like #OUTFIT #don 't #wearing
2 months ago
Two of boxing's biggest and most polarizing stars will go head-to-head when Ryan Garcia makes the first defense of his WBC welterweight championship against Britain's Conor Benn on Sept. 12 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Two longtime promotional rivals — Zuffa Boxing's Dana White and Golden Boy Promotions' Oscar De La Hoya — will work together for the mega-fight that streams on Paramount+ worldwide and exclusively on DAZN in the UK and Ireland.
Talks to matchmake Garcia and Benn began several months ago, but it has been a long, arduous journey to reach Wednesday's announcement of the fight.
Negotiations hit a major roadblock this past month when Garcia's promoter, Golden Boy, and his broadcaster, DAZN, issued cease-and-desist orders to Zuffa Boxing and TKO, instructing the pair to halt their alleged tortious interference with Garcia.
Golden Boy has a mutual say on all of Garcia's fights due to a co-promotional option it has on him, although its exclusive promotional deal expired earlier this year. The promoter claimed in the letter to Zuffa that it had not been involved in any of the talks for a bout between Garcia and Benn, despite widespread reports that a deal was close to being finalized.
Two longtime promotional rivals — Zuffa Boxing's Dana White and Golden Boy Promotions' Oscar De La Hoya — will work together for the mega-fight that streams on Paramount+ worldwide and exclusively on DAZN in the UK and Ireland.
Talks to matchmake Garcia and Benn began several months ago, but it has been a long, arduous journey to reach Wednesday's announcement of the fight.
Negotiations hit a major roadblock this past month when Garcia's promoter, Golden Boy, and his broadcaster, DAZN, issued cease-and-desist orders to Zuffa Boxing and TKO, instructing the pair to halt their alleged tortious interference with Garcia.
Golden Boy has a mutual say on all of Garcia's fights due to a co-promotional option it has on him, although its exclusive promotional deal expired earlier this year. The promoter claimed in the letter to Zuffa that it had not been involved in any of the talks for a bout between Garcia and Benn, despite widespread reports that a deal was close to being finalized.
2 months ago
Conor Benn will fight Ryan Garcia on 12 September, it has been announced, as the British star seemingly challenges the American for the WBC welterweight ******* le.
The two stars have been linked for some time, but they will officially square off at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Mexican Independence Weekend.
The bout was announced on Wednesday by Zuffa Boxing chief Dana White, best known as the president and CEO of mixed-martial-arts behemoth the UFC.
Britain's Benn split from his longtime promoter Eddie Hearn to join White and Zuffa in February, in one of the most-shocking developments in boxing's recent history.
Hearn and his company Matchroom had promoted the welterweight for his entire career, and had stuck by him during a two-year saga that began when Benn failed two drug tests. Benn in fact signed with Zuffa just days after another verbal attack on Hearn, 47, by White, 56.
The two stars have been linked for some time, but they will officially square off at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Mexican Independence Weekend.
The bout was announced on Wednesday by Zuffa Boxing chief Dana White, best known as the president and CEO of mixed-martial-arts behemoth the UFC.
Britain's Benn split from his longtime promoter Eddie Hearn to join White and Zuffa in February, in one of the most-shocking developments in boxing's recent history.
Hearn and his company Matchroom had promoted the welterweight for his entire career, and had stuck by him during a two-year saga that began when Benn failed two drug tests. Benn in fact signed with Zuffa just days after another verbal attack on Hearn, 47, by White, 56.
2 months ago
Teofimo Lopez spoke with Fight Hype after his kickoff press conference for a fight against Rolly Romero, and talking about his mindset for this fight, Lopez says he’s even more focused after coming off a wide decision loss to Shakur Stevenson in his last outing. Here are some excerpts from Lopez about where he’s currently at.
“When you get outclassed like in my previous fight then there’s things you got to really think about,” Lopez said. “I think about the business perspective of it, I need to also protect my ******* ets. What does that mean? Got to start launching something different: Takeover Promotions with DAZN. We can do anything and everything with the lead promoters that come into play but at least I get the rights to all my things…I got to take control of my career.
“These are my prime years. Let’s take advantage of those prime years but in a good way where small steps but long gains afterwards…By the end of this whole thing, I’m going to help a lot of young fighters. By the end of this whole thing, they’re going to help a lot of young fighters.”
Teofimo challenges Rolly for his WBA welterweight ******* le next month in Las Vegas.
“When you get outclassed like in my previous fight then there’s things you got to really think about,” Lopez said. “I think about the business perspective of it, I need to also protect my ******* ets. What does that mean? Got to start launching something different: Takeover Promotions with DAZN. We can do anything and everything with the lead promoters that come into play but at least I get the rights to all my things…I got to take control of my career.
“These are my prime years. Let’s take advantage of those prime years but in a good way where small steps but long gains afterwards…By the end of this whole thing, I’m going to help a lot of young fighters. By the end of this whole thing, they’re going to help a lot of young fighters.”
Teofimo challenges Rolly for his WBA welterweight ******* le next month in Las Vegas.
2 months ago
Johnny Fisher has become the latest fighter to join Zuffa Boxing, splitting from Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom to sign with the rival promotion.
Fisher has a cult following in London and Essex, and he had become one of Hearn’s biggest stars over the last three years, helped in part by the reach of his father “Big John”, a social-media sensation.
Fisher’s popularity has come in spit of his patchy recent form, however. The 27-year-old won a controversial decision over Dave Allen in late 2024, before suffering a fifth-round stoppage in their rematch last May, and even his comeback win – a fourth-round TKO of Ivan Balaz in December – saw Fisher hurt in the first round.
Perhaps Zuffa is trying to capitalise on Fisher’s popularity, in any case, or maybe this signing is another attempt to get one up on Matchroom.
After Zuffa launched in January, it signed Matchroom’s longtime fighter Conor Benn in February, with the British welterweight leaving Hearn despite the promoter’s support over a two-year saga that stemmed from Benn failing two drug tests.
Fisher has a cult following in London and Essex, and he had become one of Hearn’s biggest stars over the last three years, helped in part by the reach of his father “Big John”, a social-media sensation.
Fisher’s popularity has come in spit of his patchy recent form, however. The 27-year-old won a controversial decision over Dave Allen in late 2024, before suffering a fifth-round stoppage in their rematch last May, and even his comeback win – a fourth-round TKO of Ivan Balaz in December – saw Fisher hurt in the first round.
Perhaps Zuffa is trying to capitalise on Fisher’s popularity, in any case, or maybe this signing is another attempt to get one up on Matchroom.
After Zuffa launched in January, it signed Matchroom’s longtime fighter Conor Benn in February, with the British welterweight leaving Hearn despite the promoter’s support over a two-year saga that stemmed from Benn failing two drug tests.
2 months ago
HOLLYWOOD, CA — Premier Boxing Champions officially became part of DAZN's roster of promotional partners on Thursday, and while the Teofimo Lopez-Rolly Romero welterweight ***** le fight will carry the marquee value on August 22, the more consequential story to come out of the press conference at the Avalon in Hollywood may be everything the deal unlocks below it.
DAZN's head of boxing in North America, Britton Hardin, called PBC the last major promoter needed to bring nearly the entire sport under one roof, joining Matchroom, Queensberry, Top Rank, Golden Boy, Boxxer and Salita Promotions. TGB Promotions' Tom Brown noted the platform actually opens July 25 with Errol Spence Jr. facing Tim Tszyu in Australia, with Lopez-Romero following as the first ***** le fight of the new relationship. Both men framed the deal as removing the biggest obstacle boxing has dealt with for years: division. Hardin put it bluntly, saying the goal is to stop keeping fighters siloed on separate networks and start building the matchups fans actually want.
Ryan Hafey - PBC
Chris Mannix hosts Thursday's press conference announcing PBC and DAZN's new partnership deal
Nobody made that case better than Sebastian Fundora. The WBC super welterweight ***** leholder, whose younger sister Gabriela has fought on DAZN for years, said the partnership finally puts every top name at 154 pounds in one place, including WBA and WBO champion Jaron 'Boots' Ennis, IBF ***** leholder Josh Kelly and Virgil Ortiz Jr. Fundora still has to get through his mandatory defense against Ermal Hadribeaj first, but he made clear where his focus is beyond that fight, naming Ennis as the matchup he wants at the start of 2027. He also weighed in on Ennis' win over Xander Zayas last week, saying he studied the fight closely and noticed a few things in the third round that stood out, adding that the stoppage still gave fans what they wanted.
DAZN's head of boxing in North America, Britton Hardin, called PBC the last major promoter needed to bring nearly the entire sport under one roof, joining Matchroom, Queensberry, Top Rank, Golden Boy, Boxxer and Salita Promotions. TGB Promotions' Tom Brown noted the platform actually opens July 25 with Errol Spence Jr. facing Tim Tszyu in Australia, with Lopez-Romero following as the first ***** le fight of the new relationship. Both men framed the deal as removing the biggest obstacle boxing has dealt with for years: division. Hardin put it bluntly, saying the goal is to stop keeping fighters siloed on separate networks and start building the matchups fans actually want.
Ryan Hafey - PBC
Chris Mannix hosts Thursday's press conference announcing PBC and DAZN's new partnership deal
Nobody made that case better than Sebastian Fundora. The WBC super welterweight ***** leholder, whose younger sister Gabriela has fought on DAZN for years, said the partnership finally puts every top name at 154 pounds in one place, including WBA and WBO champion Jaron 'Boots' Ennis, IBF ***** leholder Josh Kelly and Virgil Ortiz Jr. Fundora still has to get through his mandatory defense against Ermal Hadribeaj first, but he made clear where his focus is beyond that fight, naming Ennis as the matchup he wants at the start of 2027. He also weighed in on Ennis' win over Xander Zayas last week, saying he studied the fight closely and noticed a few things in the third round that stood out, adding that the stoppage still gave fans what they wanted.
