Premier Boxing Champions is set to make its debut on Spike TV with a doubleheader on Friday, March 13 from Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, Calif. culminating with a welterweight showdown between hard-hitting Andre “The Beast” Berto (29-3, 22 KOs) and the always exciting Josesito “Riverside Rocky” Lopez (33-6, 19 KOs). The televised action begins at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT.
The first main event of the evening will see the return of former welterweight champion Shawn “Showtime” Porter (24-1, 15 KOs) facing off against the dangerous Roberto “La Amenaza” Garcia (36-3, 23 KOs).
“Fighting on the Premier Boxing Champions series on Spike TV is huge for all of us and for the sport of boxing. This is going to take all of us to a whole different level and give us the chance to become household names,” said Berto.
“Fighting on free television is what made guys like Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Duran and Marvin Hagler huge stars and I’m ready for my chance to do the same. I can’t wait to start this next chapter of my career and you’re going to see a new and rejuvenated Andre Berto on March 13th on Spike TV so make sure to tune in.”
“This is definitely going to be the fight of my life and I’m excited,” said Lopez.
“I’m looking forward to all of my local fans being there to witness a great victory. I’m fighting a really good fighter in Berto, but every fighter is dangerous. I know I have to prepare even better than ever. On March 13, I expect a big crowd because I’m fighting so close to home and my fans have been so supportive wherever I fight. I’m confident that I’m going to give the fans in attendance and on television a great performance.”
“The opportunity to fight on Spike TV and show my skills in front of millions of people is very exciting. Being a part of the first PBC event on Spike TV is an honor,” said Porter.
“My opponent has a great record and he’s a veteran. He’s strong and durable and he’s going to be a ready when he gets into that ring. I expect it to be a very tough fight, but a great fight. Of course, I expect to win and I expect to look very good doing it.”
“I’m grateful that I’m going to be part of something that is going to be great for this sport and that is being on the first PBC event on Spike TV,” said Garcia.
“Shawn Porter is a great world class fighter. He is the kind of fighters that you need to beat to be seen at the ‘A-level’ in boxing. This is the fight that can change my career and my life. I’m already training as hard as I can. I’m giving it everything I have in the gym so I can give everything I have on March 13.”
“We’re thrilled to be a part of this extraordinary event on Spike TV,” said promoter Tom Brown. “These two fights will undoubtedly provide non-stop action for the fans in the arena and those watching at home.”
