BoxRec

Fight Week!

Parker-Chisora undercard: McGregor is out, Cullen to face Sadjo instead of Cukur

We’ve known for quite some time that heavyweights Joseph Parker and Dereck Chisora would be facing each other in a rematch in Manchester on December 18.

The undercard looked pretty solid, with the likes of Carlos Gongora meeting Lerrone Richards at super middleweight and European bantamweight titleholder and rising star Lee McGregor defending his title against Narek Abgaryan. While Jack Cullen was tabbed to face Emre Cukur for the vacant European super middleweight title.

However, news reached The Ring that McGregor will instead now face Abgaryan in late January.

Cukur is out of his fight with Cullen due to a hand injury. Cullen will now meet dangerous Frenchman Kevin Lele Sadjo, in what may be a more difficult assignment.

Cullen enjoyed a breakout win over former Canelo opponent Avni Yildirim (UD 10) over the summer which helped position him for a shot at the vacant EBU title. The 28-year-old sports a (20-2-1, 9 knockout) record.

Sadjo was a French amateur champion before turning professional in 2017. The 31-year-old won his first 14 by knockout but has been taken the distance in his two most recent outings.

It should prove to be an interesting clash of styles between the 6-foot-3 Cullen and the smaller but more robust Sadjo, who is 5-foot-8.

Joseph Parker: My Career is On The Line in Chisora Rematch

"The first fight wasn’t the longest camp together with Andy, we were just getting to know each other and getting ready for the fight," said Parker. "A longer camp is more beneficial as I am understanding more what Andy is trying to teach me. We’ve worked so hard every day and I think that it’s really going to show on the night.

"Andy and I have been working on a lot of things in camp and the goal is to go in there and look better, and win but win well. I can say that I am going to be more dominant, more aggressive, and that sort of stuff, but I just want to go out there and fight and I will let my actions do the talking for me.

"I want the best Derek Chisora. I got a hard pressure fighter in the first fight with Derek and I think that he’ll be looking to make little adjustments to improve, so I am looking forward to what he’s going to bring. As long as I do what I can do it’s not going to go the distance, but I know he feels the same way. There’s no issues for me in the build up with a great camp and injury free.

"I like Derek and respect him, but this is not the time to be friends before the fight. I need to take care of business because my career is on the line here. He’s achieved a lot and I respect him, but that can wait until after the fight.

"I think the result was right. I did enough to win, it wasn’t the most dominant or best performance, it was a close fight but I believe I won it and it’s good to be able to run it back and to show the improvements I’ve made with Andy. It’s the first rematch of my career so I am excited for that and I just want to go out and fight hard, beat him up and put on a better performance and win in better fashion."

Media work out today



Press conference tomorrow

A little secret of mine…

$99 Canadian dollars (Canadian DAZN subscription per year) + Streamlocator = Every single English Premier League football game broadcast live + Lots of boxing + Other sports

Enlightened-One wrote: ↑15 Dec 2021, 16:40 A little secret of mine…

$99 Canadian dollars (Canadian DAZN subscription per year) + Streamlocator = Every single English Premier League football game broadcast live + Lots of boxing + Other sports

It really is one of the best streaming deals out there. I love DAZN

tiny_acres wrote: ↑15 Dec 2021, 17:30

Enlightened-One wrote: ↑15 Dec 2021, 16:40 A little secret of mine…

$99 Canadian dollars (Canadian DAZN subscription per year) + Streamlocator = Every single English Premier League football game broadcast live + Lots of boxing + Other sports

It really is one of the best streaming deals out there. I love DAZN

Streamlocator unlocks geographically locked streaming services. It’s much better than VPN’s.

So wherever you’re located in the world, it allows you to access content at the highest quality streaming. Zero buffering.

There’ll be people in the UK paying for DAZN GB for boxing and Sky Sports, as well as BT Sports, for the English Premier League.

DAZN Canada provides all that content in one service, accessible via Streamlocator.

Streamlocator is a free Chrome browser add-one.

Enlightened-One wrote: ↑15 Dec 2021, 18:37

tiny_acres wrote: ↑15 Dec 2021, 17:30

Enlightened-One wrote: ↑15 Dec 2021, 16:40 A little secret of mine…

$99 Canadian dollars (Canadian DAZN subscription per year) + Streamlocator = Every single English Premier League football game broadcast live + Lots of boxing + Other sports

It really is one of the best streaming deals out there. I love DAZN

Streamlocator unlocks geographically locked streaming services. It’s much better than VPN’s.

So wherever you’re located in the world, it allows you to access content at the highest quality streaming. Zero buffering.

There’ll be people in the UK paying for DAZN GB for boxing and Sky Sports, as well as BT Sports, for the English Premier League.

DAZN Canada provides all that content in one service, accessible via Streamlocator.

Streamlocator is a free Chrome browser add-one.

In what way is it better than a VPN? A VPN means you can change your "geolocation" and therefor unlock geographicaly locked content does it not? That said ill take note, Australia DAZN didnt get fight camp, And i expect Kambosos future fights to be PPV here and free everywhere else.

gregregegg wrote: ↑16 Dec 2021, 02:17In what way is it better than a VPN? A VPN means you can change your "geolocation" and therefor unlock geographicaly locked content does it not? That said ill take note, Australia DAZN didnt get fight camp, And i expect Kambosos future fights to be PPV here and free everywhere else.

A lot of streaming services are incompatible with the majority of VPN's, such as Amazon & Netflix. They also slow down your internet connection, which can cause buffering. And the streaming service providers are actively trying to prevent their content being viewed using VPN's, which means a VPN that works today might not work tomorrow.

There are three forms of Streamlocator: a physical hub (allowing your entire household to use the service i.e. stream DAZN Canada, Netflix USA etc. from any device for any streaming service from anywhere in the world), a (per device) app requiring a small monthly fee or a free Chrome extension.

I own the hub and also use the Chrome extension.

The user can select from a massive list of streaming services and choose which location they'd prefer to stream from.

If I can pay to watch legitimate premium-quality streaming services that are much cheaper than what’s available in my current location, then it’s a no-brainer, because I can ditch over-priced subscription fees.

For instance: DAZN Canada provides all the sporting content I personally require that is provided by Sky Sports, BT Sports & DAZN UK. I watch boxing and enjoy watching all the English Premier League games live (DAZN Canada shows all of them live, they don't just cover one or two games per week).

The annual subscription fee for DAZN Canada was the equivalent price of a couple of Anthony Joshua PPV's on Sky Box Office, which were actually broadcast by DAZN Canada anyway, but not covered by DAZN UK. So for me, it felt like I received DAZN Canada for free, if you know what I mean, since I would have had to pay to watch those PPV's anyway.

Anyway, try the free Chrome extension and then watch Peacock, Pluto or Tubi... and see how much free content you have access to (assuming you're not from the USA).

It's worth checking their website. It's not a dodgy illegal service.

Press Quotes

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman: “Thank you to everyone in attendance today here in Manchester ahead of a huge night of boxing this Saturday, live and exclusively on DAZN all around the world from the Manchester Arena.

“A huge crowd is expected as we wrap up what has been a sensational year against all odds. Tomorrow night we have our 43rd show of the year in Uzbekistan, Saturday night we have our 44th show of the year in Manchester and I think it’s one of the best shows we’ve put on so far this year.

Of course, the main event a Heavyweight blockbuster, the rematch between Joseph Parker and Derek Chisora. One of four brilliant 50/50 championship fights on this card, littered with great young talent and fighters emerging on the World Championship stage.”

David Higgins, Founder and Director of Duco Events:

“It’s a pandemic and a crazy world. The fact Matchroom are still making events happen is fantastic. It’s a risky business, I think sometimes in boxing it’s fashionable to hate successful people, but I think everyone in the sport should be grateful Matchroom are keeping these shows going and providing the opportunities.

“We’re grateful for sure, and to Derek Chisora for always bringing a fight. Someone asked me today saying he’s going to come swinging trying to take Joseph’s head off does that worry you. I said no it doesn’t I’m sure we’ve prepared for that, but I’ve seen Joseph sometimes at his best in those types of situations. I’m sure Joseph is going to be cool and stick to the plan but if Derek wants to swing Joseph is ready for that too.”

Joseph Parker:

“It’s great to be back in Manchester with the team. We’ve had a tremendous camp; this fight will be different from the first for sure.

“Not having a crowd made a big difference, I think Derek feeds off the crowd, I feed off of them too. A lot of fighters feed off the crowd and just having no noise and hearing specific voices it’s pretty weird.

“The World Title, my eyes are just purely on this weekend and Derek Chisora. I want to probably knock him out between round six and ten.”

Andy Lee, trainer of Joseph Parker:

“I know how much Chisora would have improved with Dave because when I won the World Title, in my corner assisting Adam Booth was Dave Coldwell – I know all about him. I know how he will help Chisora improve.

“After the first fight when the bell rang, I thought they were going to give the decision to Derek Chisora, I said it to him in the ring. We got the decision and when I watched it back, I thought Joe won the fight. We won’t be negative, Joe’s going to be a lot more positive, he’ll stand a lot more, fight a lot more and be more consistent with his attack. It should make for an excellent fight.

“If anything, the crowd in there will be a benefit to Chisora more than Parker because he’ll feed of that and the energy, he’s a big favourite. He’s now the hero, people love him and his fight style, he’s given us great fights over the years. We’re here to do business, when Joseph gets in the ring, he’ll be different in terms of the spite he has, mentally and physically.”

Derek Chisora:

Chose not to speak.

Dave Coldwell, trainer of Derek Chisora:

“I think as a fighter gets more experience under their belt, they get wiser and realise certain mistakes that they made earlier on in their career they can’t afford to make as they go on. They just learn and get smarter.

“Derek when he linked up with David Haye, changed the way he lived nutrition-wise, looking after his body and keeping it maintained even between fights. Even though he’s getting older, that takes it’s time to really bed in and with consistency you get better results in how you perform.

“Right now, Derek is performing really well, I’m happy with the work he’s done in the gym, his commitment, his sparring sessions have been great. He’s in a good place and you’ll see on Saturday.

“I don’t expect it to go the distance. I think Parker’s link up with Andy Lee, he’s a very smart man when it comes to boxing, he’s worked with two of the best in business and to sprinkle a bit of Andy Lee’s knowledge in there you’re going to get results. I’m expecting a better, more aggressive and positive Joseph Parker, but in the same vein I’m seeing a better Derek Chisora.

“People have underestimated what a difference having a crowd makes to these guys, Derek loves the crowds singing his name and getting behind him. Certain fighters it doesn’t affect, your cool calculated boxing skillsters who’ll think their way through everything. Fighters like Derek and Joseph, they get that vibe, and it adds an extra few per cent. When you’re talking about performance levels in these kinds of fights, those little per cents add up.”

Jack Cullen:

“I’ve sold near enough 1,000 tickets, and I’ve promised everyone I’m winning the European Title, that’s my early Christmas present. I’m taking it with both hands and I’m going for it, I’ve had the European Title in my head for a long while and come 18th December it’ll be a victory and a dream come true.

“You win a European Title and you’re right up there in all the rankings, anything can happen after this. I’ve just got to get past Sadjo on the 18thand we’re ready for next year.

“I’ve just got to stick to my game plan, if I stick to it then it should be a good night for me.”

Kevin Lele Sadjo:

“I did accept the challenge very quickly and thanks for the invitation. I am in form, my camp has had me training ready for a fight, when the opportunity arises to feature on a Chisora card it’s something you can’t miss. Without even watching Jack Cullen we were ready to sign up quickly and I’m hoping to return to France with the European Title.

“It’s funny you should choose the word war; the war is not in the crowd but in the ring. The war is where I position myself as a boxer, it’s not just the crowd for Jack Cullen, my crowd is watching me at home on DAZN. I think it’s going to be a superb encounter and the war is all about heart and I’ve brought my heart.”

Zelfa Barrett:

“Bruno Tarimo, I’ve studied him, watched him, I know he’s a solid fighter. He throws the kitchen sink and has a bit of brains about him, but this is my World Title fight. I’m not thinking about anything else, he’s my target and I respect him and the struggles he’s had. This is boxing, it doesn’t matter where you’re from or what you’ve done, it’s all about what happens in the ring. I’m excited and more than ready for this.

“I’m doing this for my mum, it’s been a hard year but tough times, tough people. This is boxing and I can express how I feel in the ring, come Saturday night I’ll be victorious.”

Bruno Tarimo:

“Firstly, I want to thank God for bringing me here safe, this is my first time in Manchester for a big show. Thanks to Matchroom for bringing me onto the show, I appreciate it. Thanks for the support of my team in Australia and Tanzania – for my country.

“I come from nothing, I can fight Super-Bantam but I have opportunity in Australia, it helps me but it doesn’t have the small weight. I have to take the big fight with big people to be World Champion and help my family.

“Zelfa Barrett is a good fighter, he’s smart and my team and I back in Australia were watching him. Every fighter is different, all the fighters in Australia know and support me, it’s going to be a good show on Saturday night.”

Lerrone Richards:

“This is a world level fight, a real-world level fight, a fight that I relish, and I know I can win – win in great fashion.

“The winner of this fight, which will be me, can push on to world level. I’m excited about this fight, it’s an opportunity for me to showcase my skills at the higher level and shut the doubters up. Once I win this fight, the future is bright.”

David Nyika:

“I feel very lucky to be here, thank you for having me on the card. I have the opportunity now to let people know who David Nyika is, I’m here to stay in the UK and ready to make my mark. I feel totally blessed to be part of such a big camp.

“I didn’t come away with a gold medal, so I technically didn’t achieve my ultimate dream of getting a gold. Onwards and upwards, this is an opportunity for me to make a living and continue down a path that I’ve dreamed of as a kid.”

Sandy Ryan:

“We’re also looking to make a statement, my trainer Clifton Mitchell is holding me back a little bit, he wants me to start strong, sharp and box. When we see an opening, we’re going to take her out.

“Don’t worry, the knockout is going to happen, we’re going to show a little boxing first. It isn’t going eight rounds.”

Jordan Thompson:

“It’s a pleasure to be back out, especially in my hometown, I’m looking to go out there and put on another explosive performance. Like I always say, artistic violence, that’s one thing you can expect with me.

“The Cruiserweight scene domestically is buzzing right now; I definitely see myself getting amongst that and coming out top of the crop. Like I said, I’ve got an amazing team in place, I’m looking forward to what next year brings. Definitely titles on the horizon no doubt about it.”

Cyrus Pattinson:

“I think activity is one of the most important things to be out on a regular basis. I know I’ve got a durable opponent for the weekend; he’s been with some of the domestic fighters I’ve been fighting for British and European Titles so I’m looking to make a statement on Saturday and do things other Welterweights haven’t been able to do.”

Rhiannon Dixon:

“It was a bit frustrating hearing my opponent potentially pulled out again and all the mix up of this week. I’m just excited to get there on Saturday. I’m just looking to make my mark on 2022 and I just can’t wait for it.”

Alen Babic:

“Two weeks ago, you [Eddie] slid into my DM’s and asked if I wanted to fight, I said yeah let’s go. People have routine victories, I have routine knockouts, I think Saturday is going to be another routine knockout. I’m going to operate like John Wick.

“I like this, I like this living. I give it all to boxing and for the next five to six years I just want to box – I don’t want to do anything else.

“Let’s go, like I said I have a brilliant team, we are going for the Bridgerweight Title. I’m really into it and let’s go, I’m going to give my whole life to it and I’m sure we’re going to get it.”

Another really high quality weekend of boxing (especially if Beterbiev v Browne comes off). We boxing fans are getting spoiled lately. I hope it never ends.

ironbeard wrote: ↑16 Dec 2021, 14:32 Another really high quality weekend of boxing (especially if Beterbiev v Browne comes off). We boxing fans are getting spoiled lately. I hope it never ends.

The undercard of this is actually a slow burner under the radar type thing and should be quite good. Keep an eye out for David Nyika, a new HW on the pro scene.

KiwiRider wrote: ↑16 Dec 2021, 14:55

ironbeard wrote: ↑16 Dec 2021, 14:32 Another really high quality weekend of boxing (especially if Beterbiev v Browne comes off). We boxing fans are getting spoiled lately. I hope it never ends.

The undercard of this is actually a slow burner under the radar type thing and should be quite good. Keep an eye out for David Nyika, a new HW on the pro scene.

Thanks for the tip, Kiwi.

I like Parker and hope he can carry out the aggressive gameplan but I'm resigned to seeing a re-run.

Need Tyson on his corner between rounds screamin
at him. or some Steve Collins-esque hypnosis

golden_balls wrote: ↑17 Dec 2021, 05:46 I like Parker and hope he can carry out the aggressive gameplan but I'm resigned to seeing a re-run.

Need Tyson on his corner between rounds screamin
at him. or some Steve Collins-esque hypnosis

Teddy atlas fireman speech every round on repeat.

Parker needs to make a big splash or risk becoming irrelevant.

I have traditionally been a Parker fan, but I get the feeling he has regressed a little bit.

I heard him interviewed by Steve Bunce and he claims that he's going to mix it up.

I hope he does, because that's the only way you can make a statement against Chisora.

Parker lacks motivation and aggression. Chisora Is a consistent workman. If Parker hasn’t put in the work, he will be outworked by the workman.

Ricky Hatton has said he loser may need to retire.

Parker may not even hit his prime yet.. We don't know.

And being a few years youngers than the top guys, He could easily regain a world title.

He does need that kick in his fights..

Ruthless-RKO wrote: ↑17 Dec 2021, 08:15 Ricky Hatton has said he loser may need to retire.

Parker may not even hit his prime yet.. We don't know.

And being a few years youngers than the top guys, He could easily regain a world title.

He does need that kick in his fights..

But what is prime? Is it a physical thing or when you are at your most hungry plus physically peaking? If Parker is not motivated…he’s basically a mentally shot fighter and out of his prime. Harsh description however that’s what it seems to me re Parker. Like anything in life, you need to put in the work, that takes drive,

lol, absolutely no chance parker is pre prime

Ruthless-RKO wrote: ↑17 Dec 2021, 08:15 Ricky Hatton has said he loser may need to retire.

Parker may not even hit his prime yet.. We don't know.

And being a few years youngers than the top guys, He could easily regain a world title.

He does need that kick in his fights..

Good points.

It's hard to believe that Parker is still in his 20s.

All the main players are low to mid 30s and Parker hasn't even reached 30 yet.

He definitely needs a kick.

I am hoping that hooking up with Tyson Fury's training inner circle will give him that kick.

I’ve always predicted that Parker beats Chisora in the rematch. It’ll either be a one-sided decision victory or a late stoppage.

I haven’t been able to imagine any scenario whereby Chisora upsets Parker. The Brit never receives any kudos from the judges (he often “loses” rounds he deserved to win) and the Kiwi is just far too durable to be KO’d by Dereck.

That said, Joseph Parker looked very heavy on the scales and is probably 15lbs heavier than his pugilistic prime weight.

If the extra weight isn’t part of Parker’s gameplan, we could end up seeing Joe gas during the later rounds, assuming the fight progresses beyond the sixth.

I’m still favouring Parker to comfortably beat Chisora, but the Kiwi’s extra weight has made me less confident about my prediction.

Parker is inaccurate and nevers gets into a higher gear. He has natural talent but doesnt have "it"

Chiz will give him hell again