Royal Battle: Amir Khan Vs. Devon Alexander fighters discuss training camp and the holiday season

With the holiday season upon us, fighters preparing to participate in the stacked Dec. 13 event taking place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas live on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®, take a break from training to discuss their progress in camp and what they are most grateful for during this festive season.

The following answers offer some insight into the fighters’ training camp regiments.

Q: Training camp is nearly over. How has camp been going so far?

AMIR KHAN (AK), WBA International and WBC Silver Welterweight Champion (Training in the Bay Area, Calif.):Camp has been great. We’re working hard and feeling in the best shape ever. I can’t wait for the fight.

DEVON ALEXANDER (DA), Former Two-Division World Champion (Training in St. Louis, Mo.): Camp is going tremendously well. I’m getting more and more anxious as the fight approaches.

KEITH THURMAN (KT), Interim WBA Welterweight Champion (Training in St. Petersburg, Fla.): Training camp is great, I have great sparing partners and we train three times a week and add some cardio to the mix. It’s good, this is my job, my office, we stay in the gym and work at the gym to make the fight look easy.

ABNER MARES (AM), Former Three-Time, Three-Division World Champion (Training in Los Angeles, Calif.): Camp has been great! I’m back with my old team and coach that took me to three world titles and it’s been going really well.

JERMALL AND JERMELL CHARLO – CHARLO TWINS (CT), Undefeated Junior Middleweight Contenders (Training in Houston, Texas): We’re feeling good. This is the best camp we’ve ever shared together.

ERROLL SPENCE JR. (ES), Undefeated Junior Middleweight Prospect (Training in Dallas, Texas): Training camp has been great. I’m on weight and I’ll be ready to fight on Dec. 13.

VICTOR ORTIZ (VO), Former welterweight champion (Training in Indio, Calif.): I’ve been working hard and learning from coach Joel Diaz; it’s definitely been a solid camp.

Q: Fight night is a little less than two weeks away. How are you feeling physically?
AK: I’m feeling strong and sharp. This is one of my best camps, a lot of hard work has been put in and it will pay off on fight night. I’m excited to fight. It’s been a long time.

DA: Physically I feel good. I’m in tremendous shape. And with two weeks to go I’ll be right on schedule.

KT: I feel strong, I am dropping weight on schedule and am looking forward to getting back in the ring after this minor layoff.

AM:Physically I can honestly say that I’m always ready and I’m ready to fight, but the mental part to me is the most important thing and mentally I’m ready to win one fight at a time until I become world champion once again.

CT: Knowing that we’re both fighting step-up fights we pushed each other to the maximum.

ES: I’m feeling really good. I’ve been sparring 10-12 rounds with 30-second breaks without any problem.

VO: I’m feeling great just making sure I pay attention to my coaches and work hard every day.Q: What have you been doing to pass the time when you are not in the gym or training?

AK: I’m relaxing and resting. I spend time studying Devon’s style. My brother and dad are in town so I have company. We go out to the mall or for walks. I’m a very chill guy.

DA:Well when I’m getting ready for a fight I’m completely zoned in on that fight, so I don’t do much. I train and then I’m back home. Maybe I’ll see a movie every now and then.

KT: Lately I have been playing musical instruments on my down time, it’s entertaining.

AM: Spending time with my family. I’ve been spending the most time ever with my kids and wife and it’s really important to me and it’s what I love to do when I’m not working.

CT: We spend time with our families. Jermell just bought a new house. Things are getting better in life for both of us. We’re also traveling and experiencing different boxing styles.

ES: I like to go to the movies and watch TV. I’ve also been spending time hanging out with family and friends.

VO: I spend my time in gyms or doing something outdoorsy.

Q: What is your biggest motivation during training camp?

AK: My father and coach. They motivate me and get the best out of me. Especially when I’m tired and down and missing my family and my little girl Lamaisah. Also Lamaisah is a huge motivation, I’m doing this for her.

DA: My biggest motivation during training is knowing that I’m closer than ever to being one of the best in boxing and becoming a household name.

KT: That it’s not over. My future is bright, and it motivates me to work harder every day.

AM:Now and always has been my family.

ES: The biggest motivation during training camp is knowing that I’ll be boxing on TV and I have the opportunity to showcase my skills in front of everyone.

VO: To be that best that I can be to myself.

Below are some of the “ROYAL BATTLE: KHAN VS. ALEXANDER” fighters’ favorite holiday traditions and an account of what makes them feel most appreciative.

Q: What is your fondest memory of the holidays?

AK: Spending time with family and having a break, just not thinking of anything else but family time. Also helping families in need and charities through Amir Khan Foundation.

DA: My fondest memory of the holidays are me and the family getting together and being with each other and seeing each other. We are a close family.

KT: Eating plenty of food with family and friends.

AM: I have many fond memories of making “buñuelos,” which are Mexican fried sweet dough sprinkled with cinnamon, for Christmas with my mom.

CT: Flag football is always the best part of the holidays.

ES: Spending time with my family is what’s most important to me.

VO: No memories really I’m always in camp holiday time.

Q: What is your favorite holiday tradition to participate in?

AK: Eid, which is a Muslim celebration where the family spends time together and we have dinner and give presents and money to the kids.

DA: One of my favorite holiday traditions is to be at my mom’s house and see everyone eating all that food and laughing and joking.

KT: Pretty much eating – dessert is my favorite. I’m going to tear up the desert tray at Christmas.

AM: Thanksgiving is always great because my family always take turns to say what we are thankful for and it’s great to hear everyone’s blessings.

ES: My favorite is cutting the turkey at Thanksgiving.

VO: I would have to say Halloween just to see the scary people and costumes.

Q: If you could invite one historical figure to a holiday dinner or celebration this season who would it be, and why?

AK: Muhammad Ali, he is my boxing hero and Mike Tyson who is now a friend. It would just be good to talk about boxing and they can tell me about their careers.

DA: If I had to pick a historic figure to come celebrate with it would be President Barack Obama. He is one of the most influential people of my day.

KT: Jesus, because he is the King of Kings and his spirit lives on.

AM: It would be Cesar Chavez to thank him for fighting for my people and our rights as immigrants.

VO: That’s a fun question. There’s so many people around that I wouldn’t really know who…

Q: What’s the one holiday food item or fixing that you must have this season?

AK: Thanksgiving dinner. Turkey, sweet potatoes and big bowl of salad.

DA: My favorite holiday dish that I’m waiting on is the collard greens or I could say the baked macaroni.

KT: I must have a nice apple pie. I haven’t had one in a long time.

AM: The ones that I can’t wait for are Mexican tamales and buñuelos.

CT: Gumbo!

ES: My mom’s sweet potato pie!

VO: Some pumpkin pie.

Q: What have you been most thankful for so far in 2014?

AK: My baby daughter Lamaisah, who was born in May. It’s a great feeling being a father and it’s further motivation in my career.

DA: What I’m most thankful for is being able to still be here getting blessed with tremendous opportunities. There’s so much that I’m thankful for.

KT: Thankful that I’m here, this life, this blessing and for the experience of growth. And I am thankful for the many more years in the sport and life in general.

AM: My health and being able to help others in some way.

CT: We’re most thankful for having a very close family. We’re very grateful of for all that Ronnie Shields and Al Haymon have made possible. Al gave us the chance and now we’re thankful for our position in the sport of boxing. We’re getting closer and closer to world titles.

ES: My health and the support that I get from my family and friends.

VO: To a great team that I have from Coach Joel, Coach Hoss, Coach Antonio, Coach Jose and Al Haymon, the Watson family and Scott Karp and Sam Spira. I have lots of good people in my corner in and out of boxing.

– PRESS RELEASE

Reunited with Medina, Mares looks to become world champion in 2015

]]> http://behindthegloves.com/news/reunited-with-medina-mares-looks-to-become-world-champion-in-2015/feed/ 0 http://behindthegloves.com/news/amir-khan-gets-ready-for-devon-alexander/ http://behindthegloves.com/news/amir-khan-gets-ready-for-devon-alexander/#comments Tue, 02 Dec 2014 19:06:23 +0000 http://behindthegloves.com/?p=10715

Amir Khan gets ready for Devon Alexander

“When I walked into the gym for the first time you could hear the bags being punched, you could smell the sweat and the blood. It felt like home.” – Amir Khan

Despite all his success, former unified junior welterweight champion Amir “King” Khan (29-3, 19 KOs) has stayed true to his roots. Born in the United Kingdom to Pakistani immigrants, the British superstar was introduced to boxing when he was 8 years old by his father, Shah, who has been by his side for all of his amateur and professional bouts. Khan, a devout Muslim who attends weekly prayer sessions, says he draws his strength inside the boxing ring from his religious beliefs. Check out this video of Khan discussing his family life, religion and his “make or break” showdown with Devin Alexander “The Great” (26-2, 14 KOs) on Saturday, Dec. 13, live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

And don’t miss additional videos, photos and other offerings from SHOWTIME Sports during “Khan Takeover Day” on social media by following the hashtag #KhanDay

‘Royal Battle’ televised bouts lineup announced

With the holiday season fast approaching, boxing fans will have plenty to celebrate at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, Dec. 13, as the star-studded “ROYAL BATTLE: Khan vs. Alexander” has grown to a quadrupleheader. Added to the previously announced SHOWTIME telecast will be a 10-round featherweight bout featuring former three-division world champion Abner Mares (27-1-1, 14 KOs) against Mexico’s Jose Ramirez (24-3-2, 15 KOs), and opening the live SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING portion of the event at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT will be a 12-round IBF Title Elimination bout between unbeaten Jermall Charlo (19-0, 15 KOs) and Italy’s Lenny Bottai (22-2, 9 KOs).

Headlined by the high-stakes 12-round welterweight matchups between British superstar and former unified super lightweight world champion Amir “King” Khan and former two-division world champion Devon Alexander “The Great,” and featuring the interim WBA Welterweight World Championship 12-round title fight between Keith “One Time” Thurman against Leonard “The Lion” Bundu, the live SHOWTIME event will offer a full night of boxing action.

SHOWTIME EXTREME viewers will also be treated to outstanding live action beginning at 7 p.m. ET/PT (delayed on the West Coast), with top 154-pound contender Jermell “Iron Man” Charlo (24-0, 11 KOs) putting his unbeaten record on the line in a 10-round bout against Mario Alberto Lozano (28-5, 20 KOs) and undefeated 2012 United States Olympian Errol Spence Jr. (14-0, 11 KOs) taking on longtime contender “Mighty” Mike Arnaoutis (24-10-1, 11 KOs) of Greece in an eight-round junior middleweight contest. Plus, the return of former welterweight world champion “Vicious” Victor Ortiz (29-5-2, 22 KOs) against Denver’s Manuel Perez (21-10-1, 4 KOs) will be aired during the SHOWTIME EXTREME telecast.

Rounding out the non-televised card, in an eight-round cruiserweight bout featuring Beibut Shumenov (14-2, 9 KOs) versus Robert Thomas Jr. (14-2-1, 9 KOs) and Tokyo’s Yoshihiro Kamegai (24-2-1, 21 KOs) will face off against San Jose’s Oscar Godoy (13-3, 6 KOs) in an eight-round junior middleweight showdown.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are priced at $300, $200, $100, and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes. Tickets are limited to eight (8) per person with a limit of four (4) at the $50 price range. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Facing off against former world champion Mares will be Mazatlan, Mexico native Ramirez, (24-3-2, 15 KOs), who can put himself in the running for a world title shot at 126 pounds with a win on Dec. 13. A professional since 2006, the 27-year-old former WBO International Featherweight World Champion is 3-2 in his last five bouts, a stretch that includes a victory over veteran contender Rey Bautista. Ramirez now makes his home in Oxnard, Calif., where he’s put in an intense training camp for the biggest fight of his career.

Former amateur sensation Jermall Charlo (19-0, 15 KOs) of Houston, Texas has made his presence known in the professional game with all but four of his wins coming by way of knockout. The 24-year-old Charlo is ready to continue to make a statement that he is one of the best junior middleweights in the world when he opens the Dec. 13 telecast against Lenny Bottai. His most recent win, a seventh round technical knockout over Norberto Gonzalez in September has given Charlo the drive to close out the year with a victory and head into 2015 with a world championship in his sights.

On a quest to bring a world championship home to Italy, Livorno’s  Bottai (22-2, 9 KOs) is a seasoned veteran of European rings, where he has won the Italian, IBO International, IBF International, IBF Intercontinental and WBC Mediterranean Junior Middleweight titles. The only thing missing for the 37-year-old warrior is a world title belt and following seven consecutive victories, four by knockout, he can move one step closer to glory should he upend Charlo.

Winner of nine of his last 11 fights, 27-year-old Mario Alberto “Aguila” Lozano (28-5, 22 KOs) will be a stern test for unbeaten Jermell Charlo on Dec. 13 in Las Vegas. A stellar welterweight contender for several years, the Chihuahua, Mexico native is now putting his skills on display at 154 pounds, where he has recently battled respected contenders Vanes Martirosyan and Charles Hatley. But to set the stage for a title run, Lozano must dispatch Charlo from the ranks of the unbeaten and end 2014 with a bang.

2012 U.S. Olympian Errol Spence Jr. (14-0, 11 KOs) has been making a steady climb up the divisional ranks since turning professional. After a shutout win over rugged veteran Ronald Cruz in June and a dominating technical knockout victory over the experienced Noe Bolanos in September, the 24-year-old from Desoto, Texas is primed to take his next big step.

Fresh from his first fight as a professional in his native Greece, a second round knockout of Andrei Staliarchuk in May, Athens’  Arnaoutis (25-10-2, 12 KOs) will see if 2012 U.S. Olympian Spence has what it takes to move to the next level when they collide. A veteran of nearly 14 years in the pro game, the 35-year-old Arnaoutis has battled the likes of Josesito Lopez, Chris Algieri, Danny Garcia and Victor Ortiz in his career, and he still feels he gas plenty left his as he tackles one of boxing’s brightest prospects.

– Press Release

“Getting knockouts and creating knockouts, that’s what ‘One Time’ is all about” – Keith Thurman

One of boxing’s brightest young stars, hard-hitting interim WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman (23-0, 21 KOs) continues to call out the top fighters at 147 pounds.  A crowd-pleasing boxer with exceptional power, Thurman is arguably boxing’s most feared and avoided fighter with a host of former world champions among those reluctant to face him.  Check out this video to see some of the KO artist’s greatest hits and don’t miss Thurman’s return to the ring against fellow unbeaten European star Leonard Bundu (31-0-2, 11 KOs) on Saturday, Dec. 13, live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

“Royal Battle: Khan vs. Alexander,” a 12-round welterweight bout for the WBC Silver Welterweight Title, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Khan Promotions and The Great Promotions and is sponsored by Corona Extra, AT&T and Mexico – Live It To Believe It! The event will take place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nev. and will air on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). In the co-main event, Keith Thurman defends his interim WBA Welterweight World Title against Leonard Bundu.  The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast will also be available in Spanish via secondary audio programming (SAP).

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are priced at $300, $200, $100, and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes. Tickets are limited to eight (8) per person with a limit of four (4) at the $50 price range. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available atwww.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com

Manuel ‘Manos’ Perez inks contract to fight Ortiz Dec. 13

When Manuel Perez won the UBF International Title just two weeks ago in his hometown, he knew the win would bring great opportunities for his career.

Perez put on an impressive and possibly his best performance Nov. 1 in Denver against Cesar Holguin to claim the title. What Perez didn’t expect was that opportunity would come knocking so quickly.

Perez (22-10-1) signed a contract Monday to face Victor Ortiz on Dec. 13 in Las Vegas, as part of the Amir Khan vs. Devon Alexander undercard. While most fight fans were hoping for an Andre Berto rematch, Ortiz (29-5-2) is planning to revive his boxing career by facing “easier” opposition.

Coming off a three fight losing streak, Ortiz possibly bit off more than he could chew with Perez. Perez is no stranger to delivering upsets to his opponents and their promoters.

In 2008, Brandon Rios fought Perez to a draw and at the time was the first blemish on Rios’ record. Two judges scored the bout 95-95, and the third judge had the bout 96-94 Perez. A year later, Rios avenged his draw with a TKO in the seventh round, the only stoppage in his career.

“Rios broke my nose in the second round and although I tried my best to stay in the fight, it was hard with blood flying everywhere”, Perez said.

In February 2012, Perez faced Edgar Santana on ESPN’s Friday Night Fights for the NABA light welterweight title. Perez outboxed and outclassed Santana in front of his hometown crowd in Dover, Delaware. and took a title back to Colorado. The impressive win opened the door to a better opportunities as it led to his beating Jose Miguel Cotto later that year in Mexico. Perez dominated the fight and sent Cotto into retirement.

Perez is known as a road warrior and has seen his fair share of disappointment from bad judging and robberies. But that’s never stopped him from always wanting to fight the best possible opposition.

“At the end of my career I want people to see me for the fighter I am, not for my record,” Perez said. “I’ve gone to a fighter’s backyard and proven a lot of people wrong.”

Perez has shown heart, not just in the ring but where it counts the most. Perez works a full time job, punching the clock Monday through Friday to provide for his family, three boys and his wife of six years.

“Boxing won’t make me rich, but it helps give my family extra to live a good life,” Perez said.

When most fighters argue over their purse and being put on the A side or B side, Perez has been patiently waiting for the right opportunity to enter into the next level.

“The fights have been there, I’ve been called to face some pretty big names, but it was either on a short notice, or for no money at all.”

Perez feels that this fight with Ortiz is the perfect platform to show the world who he is and what he can do. Perez finds himself in the same situation Josesito Lopez was before their 2012 fight in Los Angeles. Lopez upset Ortiz and the win boosted his career.

“I’m excited for this fight,” Perez said. “But while Ortiz is planning his comeback, I’m planning on sending him back out. My career is taking off right now and Ortiz is in the way of my goals and plans.”

Perez is not the only one with a lot to prove, as Ortiz has not won a fight since 2011. He is coming off a 10-month layoff since being knocked out by Luis Collazo, who went on to fight Khan in May. But he has since started training under the watchful eye of Joel Diaz in Indio, Ca.

“I’m only 27 and there is a lot of fight still in me, I will go on and be a champ again,” Ortiz said.

The “Royal Battle” was to be a triple headliner before the withdrawal of the Jermell Charlo vs.  Demetrius Andrade match up. This may now create the bump-up in position for Ortiz vs. Perez to see a major TV spot on the Showtime card.

Either way Perez guarantees a war and the rise of one man and the fall of another.

“I don’t think Victor has the heart to go toe to toe with me for ten rounds, but I hope he does,” Perez said. “The better the person in front of me, the better I perform.”

– Leann Perez / @LeannPerez_
Contributor for BehindTheGloves.com

Andrade/Charlo reportedly off “Royal Battle” card, Ortiz’ opponent named?

One of the scheduled bouts set for the Dec. 13 “Royal Battle” card has been pulled from the bill, according to a report by boxingscene.com Sunday.

The anticipated bout between WBO junior middleweight champion Demetrius Andrade and Jermell Charlo has been cancelled, according to the report citing “financial issues” that needed to be worked out with the champion. Andrade’s wife is also set to give birth to their child and he wants to be by her side, the report states.

Golden Boy Promotions has yet to confirm the status of the WBO junior middleweight bout.

The fight could be rescheduled to take place in January on an undisclosed network, according to the report. The bout was scheduled to compliment the welterweight showdown between Amir Khan and Devon Alexander at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The card is also scheduled to feature Keith Thurman, Victor Ortiz and Abner Mares in separate bouts.

An official announcment could be made at a Golden Boy Promotions’ press conference in San Antonio, Tx. to announce a Dec. 8 show, along with Leija Battah Promotions.

Meanwhile, while Ortiz’ opponent has yet to be officially announced, but a report by Rocky Mountain Boxing on Sunday said Manuel Perez has been named his opponent. Perez is married to BehindTheGloves.com contributor Leann Perez.

While unconfirmed, Eric Gomez, Golden Boy Promotions matchmaker, said Ortiz’ camp has accepted to face Perez. Perez, who has spent most of his recent career in the light welterweight division, recently claimed the vacant UBF International welterweight title with a unanimous decision over Cesar Holguin Nov. 1. and has won three of his last four bouts. Ortiz last stepped in the ring back in January and was knocked out by Luis Collazo following a 19-month layoff.

While an unknown name, Perez has fought quality competition and has lost to Brandon Rios, Mercito Gesta and Diego Magdaleno. Perez fought Rios to a draw in 2008 and suffered a TKO loss in a rematch the following year. Perez has wins over Jose Miguel Cotto and Edgar Santana.

If Ortiz has agreed to fight Perez, a formal announcement could also be made at Monday’s press conference.

– Jose Quintero / @JoseSwift8755
US Editor for BehindTheGloves.com

Amir Khan back in action on stacked card

Amir Khan returns to the ring on Dec. 13 as he faces off against Devon Alexander at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas as he looks to the end year on a high note in hopes of a 2015 showdown with Floyd Mayweather.

Khan (29-3, 19 KOs) was originally set to face Alexander last December in New York when the American held the IBF welterweight title but opted to pass on the bout, holding out for a showdown with Mayweather that never materialized. Alexander (26-2, 14 KOs) subsequently lost his title to Shawn Porter, who Khan’s arch rival Kell Brook defeated this summer to land the strap. Both Khan and Alexander know that a victory in December will put them in line big matchups in the coming year.

Khan impressed last time out against Luis Collazo in May and it appeared that his hard work with trainer Virgil Hunter in the gym was paying off. Khan won virtually every round of the bout displaying the frightening hand speed that few fighters possess. More importantly, he boxed a smart fight and stuck to a game plan without getting caught with silly shots as he has in the past. Khan will be looking to build on this performance and put on a show in the fight capital of the world knowing that another victory would really announce himself in the welterweight division.

Alexander should not be overlooked though. He is a former two-weight world champion who has mixed it with elite level fighters. Alexander probably scored a more convincing victory over Marcos Maidana than did Khan and Maywether, in his first clash with the tough Argentine. Alexander is tough with an awkward style and will be fully aware of what a victory over Khan in Vegas could do for his career. Alexander got a points victory in his last outing against Jesus Soto Karass and will need to improve on that performance to trouble Khan.

Khan has the carrot of two big money fights dangling in front of him should he take care of business in December. Obviously the biggest fight in boxing is a clash with Mayweather and this will be his aim for May 2015. Should that fight not happen, a domestic showdown with Brook is a more than worthy alternative. Brook is the reigning IBF king and has a rivalry with Khan that stretches back many years.

The fight is an easy sell in the UK and would fill an outdoor venue just like Froch vs Groves II did. The winner could then go on to challenge Mayweather. Khan has been dismissive of Brook in the past but if the Mayweather fight fails to come to fruition there are few better options out there for him. First things first though Khan needs to come through the Alexander fight on Dec. 13.

There is further interest in the welterweight division on the bill with Keith Thurman squaring off against Leonard Bundu. Demetrius Andrade puts his WBO light middleweight on the line against Jermell Charlo. Victor Ortiz and Abner Mares will also be featured on the card. It is certainly shaping up to be a great night of boxing before for fight fans as 2014 comes to a close.

– Thomas Flower / @thomasflower
Contributor for BehindTheGloves.com

Ortiz, Mares added to Dec. 13 “Royal Battle” card

Golden Boy Promotions has completely outdone themselves.

In what was a star-studded lineup, headlined by Amir Khan and Devon Alexander, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas Dec. 13, two former title holders were announced on the under card Friday. Abner Mares and Victor Ortiz will join Alexander, Khan, Keith Thurman and Jermell Charlo on a Showtime quintuple header.

Oscar De La Hoya will be a busy man Dec. 13. Not only is his company promoting the card, Mauricio Herrera will be featured on the under card of Timothy Bradley Jr. and Diego Chaves at the Cosmopolitan across the Las Vegas Strip. De La Hoya has previously stated he intends on attending both events.

“A huge main event with two former champions looking to take a major step back towards a title shot, undefeated fighters going head-to-head on the undercard, our last big show of the year,” De La Hoya stated in a Showtime press release. “Dec. 13 at MGM Grand will have it all. Golden Boy Promotions is finishing 2014 strong, and will move into 2015 continuing to make good on our promise to make the most exciting fights for boxing fans.”

Earlier this month, BehindTheGloves.com wrote a story, about the pending announcement of the Khan and Bradley show down, saying Christmas is coming early for fight fans. Indeed it is.

Mares (27-1-1, 14 KOs) seeks to continue his comeback since suffering the first loss of his career to Jhonny Gonzalez last year. Mares looked impressive in July under the tutilage of Virgil Hunter, but he has since returned to his longtime and former trainer Clemente Medina.

Mares’ foe has yet to be announced, but fireworks can be expected when watching one of his matches. Mares was pleased to announce his return to the ring

“My ultimate goal is another shot at a world championship and a win on Dec. 13 will help me get there,” Mares said. “I plan on putting on a great performance and showcasing my skills once again.”

Meanwhile, Ortiz (29-5-2, 22 KOs) has yet to find his winning ways since April 2011 when he bested Andre Berto. Since then he has suffered three consecutive knockout losses to Floyd Mayweather, Josesito Lopez and most recently Luis Collazo. But at the age of 27, there is hope Ortiz can regain his form, and reestablish himself by getting his boxing career back on track.

That begins with the Joel Diaz experiment. Earlier this year, Ortiz made a trip to Indio Ca. with his buddy and former world title contender Diego Magdaleno. According to Diaz, Ortiz asked if he can train under Diaz’ supervision. Diaz agreed but under one condition. Diaz told Ortiz he runs the show and will not tolerate any lack of focus or commitment to the sport. Diaz said Ortiz agreed to the terms and the two are eager to see if a change of scenery will get Ortiz’ once promising career back in the right direction.

“I’m excited to get back into the ring. I got caught in my last fight,” Ortiz said. “But I’m ready to get back to work and improve my game. I know what it takes to win and that is what I plan on doing on Dec. 13. I’m thankful for the opportunity and looking forward to giving fans a great show.”

Ortiz’ foe has not been announced. Ortiz vs. Lopez II, anyone?

– Jose Quintero/ @JoseSwift8755

US Editor for BehindTheGloves.com

“Royal Battle” – A hard-hitting tripleheader headlined by Amir Khan vs. Devon Alexander

The stars of boxing’s present and future will be out in full force at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, Dec. 13, when Golden Boy Promotions in association with Khan Promotions and The Great Promotions present a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader featuring a pivotal welterweight showdown and two world championship fights, live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

In a pair of must-see, high-stakes welterweight matchups, British superstar and former unified super lightweight world champion Amir “King” Khan of Bolton, England will take on former two-division world champion Devon Alexander “The Great” of St. Louis, Mo., while undefeated interim WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith “One Time” Thurman of Clearwater, Fla., will defend against Leonard “The Lion” Bundu of Lazio, Italy.

Rounding out an action-packed night on the three-fight SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will be WBO Junior Middleweight World Champion and 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade of Providence, R.I., who risks his 154-pound belt against tough undefeated young star Jermell “Iron Man” Charlo of Houston, Texas. Charlo will make his first attempt at world title glory in a battle of unbeaten junior middleweights.

Featured on the undercard will be two separate 10-round bouts featuring former three-time, three-division world champion Abner Mares and former welterweight world champion “Vicious” Victor Ortiz. Mares, who will fight in a featherweight bout against an opponent to be determined, will look to build on his recent victory over Jonathan Oquendo. Ortiz is looking to make a comeback statement in a welterweight bout against an opponent to be named.

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are priced at $300, $200, $100, and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes. Tickets are limited to eight (8) per person with a limit of four (4) at the $50 price range. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

“Getting back in the ring is all I’ve been looking towards these last few months,” said Khan. “I want to show everybody that I’m a major force at 147 pounds and I’m ready to take on the best. This fight with Alexander has been on the table for a while, but it is finally happening and I plan on winning impressively to show that I am truly one of the best welterweights in the world.”

“I’ve wanted this fight for a long time and I’m ready to show that I’m worthy of this opportunity and the opportunities ahead after I win on Dec. 13,” said Alexander. “I’ve worked hard my entire life and now the pressure is on to really show what I can do.”

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and defend my title,” said Thurman. “I’m going to give all my fans the performance of a lifetime and prove why my name should be at the top of the welterweight conversation.”

“December 13 is going to be the biggest night of my professional career thus far,” said Bundu. “To be fighting in the United States, in the fight capital of the world — Las Vegas on SHOWTIME against one of the most promising American prospects is a dream come true. But Keith Thurman doesn’t scare me. I know that I have what it takes to win and truly make a name for myself throughout the boxing world.”

“There is no way I’m letting go of my belt,” said Andrade. “Jermell Charlo is a good fighter, but nothing is going to stop me from defending my belt and raising my hand in victory on Dec. 13. I am confident that this will be a fight fans won’t want to miss.”

“I am beyond excited to finally get a shot at a world title,” said Charlo. “This is what I’ve been waiting for. I’m ready to be a world champion. Nothing is going to stand in my way. Andrade is the champion and I’m not looking past him at all, but this is my time. I know it. The title will lead to bigger and better things and that is what I’m all about.”

“I am so happy to be back at MGM Grand after my recent win in July,” said Mares. “My ultimate goal is another shot at a world championship and a win on December 13 will help me get there. I plan on putting on a great performance and showcasing my skills once again.”

“I’m excited to get back into the ring,” said Ortiz. “I got caught in my last fight, but I’m ready to get back to work and improve my game. I know what it takes to win and that is what I plan on doing on December 13. I’m thankful for the opportunity and looking forward to giving fans a great show.”

“A huge main event with two former champions looking to take a major step back towards a title shot; undefeated fighters going head-to-head on the undercard; our last big show of the year -Dec. 13 at MGM Grand will have it all,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions. “Golden Boy Promotions is finishing 2014 strong and will move into 2015 continuing to make good on our promise to make the most exciting fights for boxing fans.”

“The Dec. 13 edition of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING delivers on our promise to televise stacked fight cards featuring big name fighters in meaningful fights,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports. “The main event, Amir Khan versus Devon Alexander, is a matchup between two renowned former world champions, each at a critical juncture in his career. In the co-feature, Keith Thurman, one of the brightest young stars in boxing, faces perhaps his toughest test to date in the highly regarded and undefeated Leonard Bundu, as each boxer battles for position in the ultra-competitive welterweight division. The opening bout on the telecast features two very talented undefeated rising stars, champion Demetrius Andrade and No. 2-ranked challenger Jermell Charlo. Each fight on the telecast will have a significant impact on the top-10 divisional rankings.”

Khan(29-3, 19 KOs), a 2004 Olympic Silver medalist who turns 28 on Dec. 8, has won his last three contests, all against former world champions. In his most recent outing, he scored three knockdowns en route to a lopsided 12-round decision victory over Luis Collazo in the co-main event on May 3. Before that, the popular, lightning-quick Brit defeated Julio Diaz via unanimous decision in April of 2013 and Carlos Molina in Dec. of 2012. A victory against Alexander would put Khan in a position to become a two-division world champion in 2015.

The 27-year-old southpaw Alexander (26-2, 14 KOs), is a former welterweight and junior welterweight world champion and is coming off of a 10-round unanimous decision over the tough Jesus Soto Karass last June. Fighting with a newfound passion and aggressiveness, Alexander was victorious by the scores of 99-91 twice and 97-93. A winner of five of his last six bouts, a stretch that has seen him defeat the likes of Lucas Matthysse and Marcos Maidana, Alexander believes that his technical artistry will put him back in the world title hunt soon.

Thurman (23-0, 21 KOs) has always been feared for his knockout power, but when he won the WBA Interim Welterweight World Title with a 10th round knockout over Diego Chaves in July of 2013, he was put in a position where the elite of the fight game would have to square off with him eventually. The 25-year-old Thurman has since made two successful title defenses with knockouts over Jesus Soto Karass and Julio Diaz, and he will attempt to achieve the same result against Bundu.

Bundu(31-0-2, 11 KOs), who represented Italy in the 2000 Olympic Games, is making his United States and SHOWTIME debut. The European and Commonwealth Champion, is coming off a hard-earned 12-round decision over previously undefeated contender Frankie Gavin on Aug. 1. Bundu was born in Sierra Leone before moving to Italy, where he has fought the majority of his fights since turning pro in 2005. He is ranked No. 3 in the WBC and No, 4 in the WBA and IBF.

A decorated amateur, Providence, Rhode Island’s Andrade (21-0, 14 KOs) turned professional in 2008 after representing the U.S. in the Olympic Games in Beijing. In November of 2013, the talented southpaw won the vacant WBO Junior Middleweight World Title with a 12-round decision over Vanes Martirosyan and this past June, the 26-year-old successfully defended his title for the first time with a seventh-round technical knockout over Brian Rose.

Charlo (24-0, 11 KOs), 24, is the younger-by-one-minute brother of identical twin, Jermall, who is also a world-ranked undefeated contender at 154 pounds. A tall fighter for his division, Charlo has stepped up in class in some recent fights and is coming off two consecutive terrific points’ victories against Charlie Ota in a 12-round fight on May 24 and against Gabriel Rosado in a 10-round battle on Jan. 25. Charlo, also a top-notch amateur, won the bronze medal at the 2005 Junior Olympics. December 13 marks a milestone in Charlo’s career as he will do everything he can to capture his first world title.

Mares (27-1-1, 14 KOs) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, and fighting out of Downey, Calif. is coming off of a unanimous decision victory over Johnathan Oquendo at MGM Grand in July. Prior to his impressive win, Mares suffered the first loss of his professional career to the hands of Johnny Gonzalez, but has since bounced back and is ready to fight. Mares found himself on the pound-for-pound list in 2013 after winning the WBC Featherweight title, adding to his accomplishments as he already held world championships at bantamweight and super bantamweight.

Ortiz (29-5, 22 KOs) is ready to show the boxing world that he still has what it takes to be great. The 27-year-old Ventura, Calif. native has made headlines in and out of the ring, not only as a fighter, but also an entertainer. A former welterweight world champion who has engaged in memorable battles against the best in the boxing business including Floyd Mayweather, Marcos Maidana, Andre Berto and Josesito Lopez. He has also crossed over into the bright lights of Hollywood as a member of the cast of ABC’s hit series “Dancing With The Stars” and most recently as part of the film “Expendables 3.” Now Ortiz will return to the ring for the first time since his knockout loss against Luis Collazo in January and looks to show the boxing world he’s serious about another run at a world title.

– PRESS RELEASE