Latest news with #Lightweight
New York Post
12-07-2025
- Sport
- New York Post
Edgar Berlanga, Shakur Stevenson represent boxing's polar opposites on top of intriguing NYC card
Two differing perspectives say so much about the current state of boxing. There is Edgar Berlanga (23-1, 18 KOs), who told The Post: 'I've just learned throughout the years, in order to be a big megastar in boxing, you can have all the medals you want, all the world titles you want, three-time undisputed, two-time undisputed, undisputed world champion, but if you can't catch the people's attention, you're nothing in the sport. 'Right now, I don't have a world title and I make five times more than guys that got world titles, multiple world titles. That goes to show that you don't really need a world title. You don't need a title to certify your name in the sport of boxing. Advertisement 6 Edgar Berlanga leaves his corner to fight Steve Rolls during their super middleweight bout in the Hulu Theatre at Madison Garden on March 19, 2022 in New York. Getty Images 'In this day and age, as long as you can fight, you're entertaining the crowd, you're not a runner, you go in there to fight and you're looking for knockouts and you're looking to be sharp and talk crap, you talk the talk and you can walk the walk, that's the most important thing. I'm the only guy on this card that's really bringing that entertainment to the sport. And that's what it needs, it needs that.' Then there's Shakur Stevenson: Advertisement 'I'm not talking bad and I'm not saying slurs with my speeches,' he told The Post. 'Honestly, none of that s–t matters, at the end of the day. How everybody feels, they can feel, they're entitled to their opinion. It don't really matter what anybody else thinks.' Both are on the highly anticipated card Saturday night at Louis Armstrong Stadium at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, site of the U.S. Open — the first bout that will be fought at the venue. 6 Shakur Stevenson of the US in action against Oscar Valdez of Mexico during their WBO/WBC/Ring Magazine Junior Lightweight title fight on April 30, 2022 at the Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. EPA Both are 28 years old. Both grew up locally — Berlanga in New York City and Stevenson in Newark. But they represent polar opposites. Advertisement Berlanga is flashy, cocky, braggadocious and style over substance. He has a fan-friendly, exciting approach inside the ring, relentlessly looking for knockouts with big punches. 6 Edgar Berlanga celebrates his first round Technical Knockout against Cesar Nunez during their super middleweight bout at Madison Square Garden on Dec. 14, 2019 in New York City. Getty Images He began his career with 16 first-round knockouts and 18 of his 23 wins have been by stoppage. Advertisement His stardom is ahead of his accolades, which helped him land a lucrative bout against Canelo Alvarez last September. Stevenson (23-0, 11 KOs), on the other hand, is much less of a trash-talker and more substance over style. 6 Shakur Stevenson (right) punches Germany's Artem Harutyunyan during the ninth round of a WBC world lightweight championship boxing match on July 7, 2024, in Newark, N.J. AP He's a three-division world champion and has dominated every pro bout he's fought. But his approach is much less appealing to casual fans — he knocks out very few opponents and is one of the best defensive and most elusive fighters in the sport. That results in much less action and output, so much so that Turki Al-Sheikh — whose Riyadh Season promotional company is putting on the card — has trolled Stevenson, saying he produces 'Tom and Jerry' type fights. Stevenson's stardom lags his accomplishments, and he's yet to have a signature bout against a superstar. 6 Shakur Stevenson celebrates after defeating Felix Caraballo (not pictured) by TKO in the sixth round of their super featherweight bout at MGM Grand Conference Center Grand Ballroom on June 9, 2020 in Las Vegas. Top Rank via Getty Images Advertisement Stevenson is the one defending a title — his WBC lightweight belt — against William Zepeda. But it is Berlanga — whose super middleweight bout against Hamzah Sheeraz has no titles at stake — who is the main event, while Stevenson is the co-main event. In the modern boxing landscape, attention is often more lucrative than accomplishments. 'Boxing is real big in the city,' Berlanga said. 'Just not for any boxers, because there's a lot of boxers that are represented in New York right now. They're not making an effect like that because they're not delivering what people want, and that's knockouts. They don't deliver what people want, and that's entertainment. I have the whole package. Advertisement 6 New York boxer Edgar Berlanga posing for a photo during a training session at Competitive Edge Athletics in Port Washington. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post 'When you bring that excitement, when you bring the swag and the look and you come from New York and you entertain the fans and you talk crap to the other opponent and you talk crap to promoters, you be flamboyant, you talk the talk and you walk the walk, that's when you're drawing a big crowd of people. That's what the people love in New York. 'You saw when the Knicks were playing? We're cocky. We're super cocky, and when we win, we're even more cocky. It's just in us. That's just us, that's our energy.' Saturday will represent a unique atmosphere — outdoors at a tennis stadium. Advertisement For his part, Stevenson is promising more excitement. 'I know this is the first time anyone has ever fought at this stadium,' Stevenson said. 'I will be the first person and I will be leaving my name on it. … I think this fight kind of takes me to another level. I'm fighting at a stadium nobody has ever fought at. 'I just know this is the fight that's gonna do it. William Zepeda is gonna bring out another side to me that the fans haven't gotten a chance to see yet.'
Metro
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
M&S has called it a 'thigh guy summer' - and here are the best short for men
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more The UK has been baking in recent weeks with temperatures soaring above 30°C. While we don't mean to complain about sweating from areas we never knew was possible, we have had a much-needed change in wardrobe, and not just women, but men too. Marks and Spencer shared a survey with us that showed 66% of men are leaning into the short shorts trend this summer, with a staggering 76% feeling more body confident than ever before. Even Google searches has seen 'men's short shorts' reach highs of 138%. This has lead 46% of men to purchase short shorts for the summer – M&S has coined the rising hemlines trend as the 'thigh guy summer'. There is nothing more uncomfortable than long length jeans, or low hemlines that irritate you on a balmy summer day or feel even more restricting on a day with absolutely no breeze to cool you down. The return of short shorts is not simply relegated to gymwear or swimwear, but everyday shorts too including tailored designs and linen shorts with a five-inch hemline. Not quite sold on the trend and need some style inspiration? Look to Paul Mescal, Harry Styles or Alexander Skarsgård who seem to be spearheading the short shorts trend. Of course there is only one retailer to shop the style with affordable price tags – M&S. So, without further ado, here are the best short shorts for men to snap up this summer. There is nothing worse than having a swim, and waiting hours for your trunks to dry so you can head to a restaurant or lunch, hence why M&S' Quick Dry Plain Swim Shorts are a must. Because they're so quick drying, and stylish, you could easily wear them for hikes, days out and relaxing poolside. Available in 12 colours. BUY NOW FOR £15 A pair of smart chinos are a popular staple for men to wear to more formal events, such as holidays, weddings, evenings out. But in the summer the alternative is a pair of chino shorts, and this style is available in extra short, short, medium and long lengths. The extra short length is only available in select colourways. Buy Now M&S' Regular Fit Stretch Chino Shorts are slightly different to the Chino Shorts, as this pair offer a more relaxed fit, which you can wear day and night. Made from soft and breathable cotton fabric in a smart chino finish, just shorter in length. It features added stretch for a comfortable fit. Available in regular fit, slim fit and loose fit, as well as extra short, short, medium and long lengths. BUY NOW FOR £20 If you are looking for a more fitted smart short to wear this summer the Slim Fit Super Lightweight Chino Shorts are a worthy investment, especially at £35. Crafted from a cotton and elastomultiester, which are soft, breathable, comfortable yet sleek. It features a button and zip front fastening, a slightly narrower leg than other styles and belt loop fastening to style with a belt. BUY NOW FOR £35 If you are working out in the summer, or any time of year, you won't want excess fabric to get in the way and restrict your movement. The solution? M&S' Good Move Sport Shorts, which are breathable, lightweight, sweat-wicking and shorter in length – the perfect combination to keep you comfortable and cool. BUY NOW FOR £20 If you're heading on holiday and need to stock up on your trunks, another pair of short short swim shorts are M&S' Cotton Rich Seersucker Striped Swim Shorts. Crafted from lightweight cotton and Sun Smart UPF50+ technology to protect the wearer from harmful UV rays – though you still need to apply SPF as well of course. BUY NOW FOR £25 Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Share your views in the comments below MORE: What to wear to Wimbledon 2025 – from dresses, suits and stylish co-ords to watch courtside MORE: I'm a shopping writer and here's what I'm buying this week – from Berghaus to Skin Rocks MORE: The best women's hiking clothes and accessories for successful summer hikes
Yahoo
15-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Andy Cruz Faces Hironori Mishiro In IBF Lightweight Final Eliminator
Andy Cruz Faces Hironori Mishiro In IBF Lightweight Final Eliminator originally appeared on Athlon Sports. By Peter Raburu Andy Cruz (5-0, 2 KOs) will face Hironori Mishiro (17-1-16 KOs) in a final IBF Lightweight eliminator this Saturday, June 14th, at 7:00 pm. Advertisement This match will determine Raymond Muratalla's next opponent, who is currently a 135-pound champion. Cruz previously defeated Omar Sacido Gamezz in his prior fight. The fight results are believed to suit the champion, Andy Cruz, forcing Muratalla (23-0, 17 KOs) to prepare even harder before potentially fighting Cruz. This comes after Murattalla defeated Zaur Abdullaev for the IBF interim title on May 10th. Raymond's battles are fairly predictable, and he has been criticized for being one-dimensional, only fighting in one gear, and lacking a killer instinct. Cruz has proven to be a nightmare for opponents in the 135-pound category. This comes after top Rank fighter Keyshawn Davis made it obvious that he did not want to fight Cruz after being battered with whips four times in their amateur battles. Keyshawn made various dubious justifications, and now he's set to face the nightmare again. Will he make excuses again or face the nightmare? Advertisement Mishiro, on the other hand, remains in fifth place in the IBF rankings, and this fight is an opportunity for the former Japanese Lightweight Champion to make his American debut in the biggest fight of his career. He is confident and optimistic about landing the title shot for himself. 'I've put in the hard work and dedication, and I can't wait to step into the ring again,' said Cruz. 'This fight isn't just about winning; it's about showing my people the passion I have for the sport. I'm ready to prove that I'm a contender and bring that W home!' said Mishiro in a YouTube interview. 'I want to thank Matchroom for allowing me to fight in the US,' said Mishiro. 'I'm excited and motivated for such a great opportunity. I have fought as the underdog many times, and I look forward to making another big upset on June 14,' said Mishiro in a YouTube interview. This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 13, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Charles Oliveira Issues a Brutal Warning to Ilia Topuria Before UFC 317
In just a few weeks, UFC 317 will deliver one of the most explosive matchups in recent memory. The main event features Ilia Topuria making his lightweight debut, and he's skipping the line—going straight for gold. But waiting for him is no warm welcome. Instead, it's a battle-hardened former champion in Charles Oliveira, and ahead of the highly anticipated showdown, Oliveira is making it clear that he's not here to play nice. While much of the pre-fight spotlight has focused on the rise of Topuria, Charles Oliveira has remained largely silent—until now. In a recent clip shared by Full Violence on TikTok, Oliveira finally broke his silence and did so with no hesitation. 'It's a great fight, he's a great fighter. But I don't need to prove anything to anyone about who I am,' he said. 'This fight came at a huge opportunity. I will knock out this guy. That's for real.' That statement shouldn't come as a surprise to longtime fans. Oliveira holds the UFC record for most finishes in promotional history, with a staggering 20 stoppages. He's also the all-time leader in submission victories. During his title reign, Oliveira fought Michael Chandler, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje consecutively—and finished all three. That stretch of dominance solidified his reputation as one of the most dangerous lightweights in UFC history, showcasing both striking and submission prowess. Charles OliveiraGetty Images With momentum on his side and experience at the highest level, Oliveira's words may not be hype—they might be a serious warning of what's to come. Related: Former UFC Champion 'Pissed' After Being Passed Over for Ilia Topuria Fight Related: Dricus Du Plessis Sends Explicit Response to Contender Ahead of UFC 319
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Justin Gaethje Frustrated After Ilia Topuria vs Charles Oliveira Title Fight Announcement
UFC 317 will mark the start of Ilia Topuria's quest for double champion status, as he moves up to lightweight and immediately challenges for UFC gold. In his divisional debut, Topuria faces one of the sport's most feared submission specialists in Charles Oliveira—a former titleholder known for breaking records and finishing elite opponents on the ground. But while the spotlight shines on the matchup, one former UFC champion is feeling overlooked—and he's not staying silent. That former titleholder is Justin Gaethje. On a recent episode of the Anik & Florian Podcast, co-host Jon Anik shed light on a private conversation he had with Gaethje, revealing the lightweight contender's frustration. 'He was pissed, right? He feels like certainly he was passed over in favor of Charles Oliveira for this opportunity against Ilia Topuria,' Anik said. He added, 'I think what Justin Gaethje and his manager Ali Abdelaziz are looking for is just some sort of guarantee that they will be next.' Advertisement Gaethje's irritation comes on the heels of a critical bounce-back win at UFC 313, where he defeated Rafael Fiziev by majority decision. It was a rematch of their razor-close bout at UFC 286, and this time, Gaethje clearly separated himself in the third round, earning Fight of the Night honors. The win moved him to No. 3 in the official UFC lightweight rankings. Charles Oliveira, currently ranked No. 2, returned to action at UFC 309, where he secured a unanimous decision victory over Michael Chandler. The bout marked his bounce-back fight after suffering a loss to Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 300. Oliveira earned the win on all three judges' scorecards, reinforcing his position as a top contender and strengthening his case for another shot at the belt. Justin GaethjeGetty Images With Gaethje and Oliveira neck-and-neck in the rankings and both coming off high-level wins, it's understandable why the UFC's decision to go with Oliveira over Gaethje could be seen as a toss-up. Each man had a legitimate case, but ultimately it was Oliveira who landed the Topuria sweepstakes. UFC CEO Dana WhitePhoto by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC With Dana White remaining noncommittal about Gaethje's future, the road ahead remains uncertain. However, if history is any indicator, the former champion is unlikely to stay sidelined for long. A clash with the winner of UFC 317 could still be in play—and Gaethje is making sure his name stays in the conversation. Related: Jake Paul Responds to Logan's MMA Challenge in Latest Twist to Sibling Rivalry Related: New Details Emerge in Fatal Crash Involving Francis Ngannou: Report
