Tevin Farmer has breakout 2014; looks for big 2015

Farmer Takes on Viktor Chernous this Friday night in Cabazon, California FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Philadelphia (January 6, 2015 ) - As recently as 2012, Featherweight contender Tevin "The American Idol"  Farmer was considered nothing more than a dangerous and useful journeyman.  A fighter who would and could compete to a certain level but ultimately would fall a bit short against fighters with a perceived higher class. Enter a bout that took place on October 12, 2012.   Farmer was summoned in to face hot undefeated prospect Jose Pedraza.  Pedraza won the fight via 8th round.  After the fight, Farmer's record stood at a pedestrian 7-4-1. Fortunately he didn't give up.  He had a brother who worked at Rocco's Collision Center in South Jersey which is owned and operated by Mark Cipparone. Cipparone sat down with young Farmer and decided to get into the fight game as a manager. Cipparone changed Farmer's train of thinking and provided him with the proper needs in order for Farmer to succeed at the highest level. The first order of business was to seek out and build a team who could both train at the highest level and also provide mentor ship to this young man both in an out of the ring. The process was not easy Cipparone said, "I included Tevin every step of the way. He was at every interview with every coach and he was the one who made those very difficult decisions. I have every reason to be proud of Tevin. His mind, body, and work ethic is that of a champion and his results speak volumes. It won't be long before the World will see what I have been saying about "The American Idol" Tevin Farmer." Mission accomplished as Farmer has ripped off ten wins in a row that has raised his mark to an impressive 17-4-1. In that streak he has scored quality victories over Camillo Perez (9-0), Noel Echevarria (11-1), Emanuel Gonzalez (14-0) and in his most recent effort, he took out Dominic Coca in one round on October 11. The surge in Farmer's career earned him a promotional contract with well regarded DiBella Entertainment. 2015 looks to be a huge year in the career of Tevin Farmer as he will prove that when given the proper management and backing, that dreams come true. He will get his 2015 underway this Friday night when he takes on Viktor Chernous (15-1-1, 5 KO's) in an 8-round bout at the Morongo Spa & Resort in Cabazon, California.    "Farmer started his career at 7-4-1 and has used a 10-fight win streak against quality opposition to achieve prospect/contender status. He's fighting top competition againon Friday night. Tevin is only 24 years old and I believe he has championship-caliber talent.", said his promoter Lou DiBella of DiBella Entertatinment   To listen to Tevin Farmer in his own words, click on the below video: Tevin Farmer Club 1957 Management was founded in 2013 by local businessman Mark Cipparone.  Cipparone is the owner of the widely successful and popular Rocco's Collision.  Since the formation of Club 1957 Management he has guided the careers of some the top fighters in the country.  Currently he manages Heavyweight Joey Dawejko, Welterweight Raymond Serrano, Jr. Lightweight Tevin Farmer and Jr. Lightweight Jason Sosa and others.

JOSE PEDRAZA: "I'm ready to fight Rances Barthelemy and bring home the title"

PUERTO RICO (November 20, 2014) - After his dominating performance against Philippine contender Michael Farenas (39-5-4, 31 KOs), Puerto Rican star and IBO super-featherweight champion, Jose "Sniper" Pedraza (19-0, 12 KOs), is elated that he's become the mandatory challenger to face IBF champion Rances Barthelemy (21-0, 12 KOs).

"I'm very excited about my future and I'm very thankful to my promoters Gary Shaw, Lou DiBella and Javier Bustillo for getting me the fights I needed to become the mandatory challenger to fight for the IBF title." said Pedraza. "I've been getting a lot of support from my people here in Puerto Rico and it feels great to be loved by them.  I've already started training as I'm eager to get back in the ring.  I'm ready to fight Rances Barthelemy and bring home the IBF title."

Promoter Gary Shaw was amazed on how well Pedraza picked apart Farenas in their bout.  He feels Pedraza soared from a fighter on the rise to one of the best fighters in the 130lbs division. 

"Pedraza was absolutely outstanding in his fight with Farenas," said Gary Shaw. "He looked fantastic.  He has the rare ability to make adjustments in the ring against any style.  He proved he can hang with the big boys.  Farenas is a big puncher and Pedraza negated everything he brought to the table.  Pedraza graduated from top prospect, to world title contender in one terrific performance.  I believe he is the top 130 pounder in the world, and come early 2015 will prove it when he fights for the world title."

Pedraza is promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, DiBella Entertainment and Universal Promotions.

Jose Pedraza Wins IBF Elimination Bout against Michael Farenas

PUERTO RICO (November 14, 2014) - Tonight at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Gary Shaw Productions, DiBella Entertainment and Universal Promotions' undefeated IBO super featherweight champion, Jose "Sniper" Pedraza (19-0, 12 KOs) dazzled his hometown fans winning an astounding 12-round unanimous decision against top Philippine contender Michael Farenas (39-5-4, 31 KOs).  With the win, Pedraza moves into the mandatory position to fight IBF world champion, Rances Barthelemy (21-0, 12 KOs) as this fight was an IBF elimination bout. 

Pedraza got into a grove in the early rounds and mounted a sustainable lead as he used his superior boxing skills to pick apart Farenas who was coming forward.  As the fight entered the middle rounds, Pedraza continued to box and use lateral movement to win rounds.  Farenas had his moments as he landed a few big power shots, but nothing that would prevent Pedraza from executing his game plan. In the championship rounds Farenas came on strong, but it was too late as Pedraza ended strong to keep his lead intact.  Scorecards read 117-111, 118-110 and 116-112, all in favor for Pedraza.

"This was a great win for the people of Puerto Rico and I'm very happy with my performance," said Jose Pedraza. "I knew if I stuck to my game plan which was to box and punch off angles I would be victorious.  I want to thank my promoters Gary Shaw, Lou DiBella and Javier Bustillo for all their support.  I'm ready to challenge Rances Barthelemy for the world title.  I know I can bring home another championship to my countrymen in Puerto Rico."

"Pedraza boxed beautifully tonight and proved he's one of the best super-featherweights in the world," said Gary Shaw.  "There is no doubt in my mind he has what it takes to unify all the world titles at 130lbs.  He's now the mandatory challenger to face IBF champion Rances Barthelemy.  DiBella, Bustillo and I will start working on the matchup right away.  I think it's a fantastic fight for the fans." 

 

Welterweight Prospect 'Speedy' Rashidi Ellis Added to Pedraza-Farenas card this Friday in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Former amateur star, 'Speedy' Rashidi Ellis ( 12-0, 9 KO's ) from Lynn, Massachusetts will return to the ring this Friday, November 14th at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where in the ,main event, Puerto Rican sensation, Jose 'Sniper' Pedraza will face Philippine contender, Michael Farenas in a IBF elimination bout.

Ellis opponent will be Joseph De los Santos ( 18-13-9 KO's ) from Dominican Republic in a scheduled six round bout at the welterweight division.
  
"Joseph (De los Santos) has faced great fighters such as Glen Tapia, J 'Leon Love, Eddie Gomez and many others. In fact, in that Gomez fight, the result was controversial because the fans, and many boxing analysts saw Joseph winning convincingly, but now is Rashidi's time. His ring IQ it's unbelievable, we expect a huge victory", stated Rashidi's manager, Edwin Diaz, President of Troya Boxing.

"I'm very well prepared for my toughest test. My opponent is very experienced, loves to brawl, and that's what I was looking for. I just hope he comes ready to fight, in great shape because I'm ready to deliver a great show to the great Puerto Rican fans", commented Rashidi Ellis, who trains in Bayamón, Puerto Rico under the tutelage of longtime trainer, Alex Rivera.

Ellis, who at one point of his boxing amateur career was ranked number one at the Welterweight division (152 pounds) in the United States, ended up with a record of 60-11, which included:

-2012 National PAL (Police Athletic League) Champion

-Three time New England Golden Gloves Champion 

-Rocky Marciano Amateur Boxing Tournament Champion 

-Silver Medal at the Independent Cup in the Dominican Republic


Ellis comes from a family of boxers. His older brother, Ronald "Akeem" is an undefeated super middleweight prospect. His sister, Rashidia, is a 2012 PAL champion, and a favorite win a medal for the U.S. Women`s Boxing Team in the 2016 Summer Olympics.

JOSE PEDRAZA ENTERS FINAL DAYS OF TRAINING CAMP Photos By Jonathan Gaudier Universal Promotions PUERTO RICO (November 5, 2014) - Top rated super-featherweight contender, Jose "Sniper" Pedraza (18-0, 12 KOs) is wrapping up his final days of training camp as he prepares for his upcoming IBF elimination bout against Philippine contender Michael Farenas (39-4-4, 31 KOs). Promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, DiBella Entertainment and Universal Promotions', Pedraza will face Farenas at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico on November 14, 2014. The 12-round bout will be televised on DirecTV in Puerto Rico only. Check your local listing for more details. "I'm ready to show the world that I'm ready to take on all comers and on November 14 I will showcase my skills and qualities in the ring," said Pedraza. "The training is done and now it's time to focus on making weight. Farenas represents exactly what we wanted. He is a strong, world-class opponent. I will use every weapon in my arsenal to come out on top. I will give all Puerto Rico a great victory." Promoter Gary Shaw feels Pedraza is on the verge of super stardom as he states, "I believe Jose Pedraza is the best 130 pounder in boxing. He has all the ability to fight against any style. He's very popular in his native land of Puerto Rico and I feel he's on the threshold of some really big fights. Farenas is a big step up but I know Pedraza will be ready for the challenge."

JOSE PEDRAZA 

ENTERS FINAL DAYS OF TRAINING CAMP

Photos By Jonathan Gaudier Universal Promotions

PUERTO RICO (November 5, 2014) - Top rated super-featherweight contender, Jose "Sniper" Pedraza  (18-0, 12 KOs) is wrapping up his final days of training camp as he prepares for his upcoming IBF elimination bout against Philippine contender Michael Farenas (39-4-4, 31 KOs).

Promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, DiBella Entertainment and Universal Promotions', Pedraza will face Farenas at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico on November 14, 2014.  The 12-round bout will be televised on DirecTV in Puerto Rico only. Check your local listing for more details.

"I'm ready to show the world that I'm ready to take on all comers and on November 14 I will showcase my skills and qualities in the ring," said Pedraza. "The training is done and now it's time to focus on making weight.  Farenas represents exactly what we wanted. He is a strong, world-class opponent.  I will use every weapon in my arsenal to come out on top.  I will give all Puerto Rico a great victory."

Promoter Gary Shaw feels Pedraza is on the verge of super stardom as he states, "I believe Jose Pedraza is the best 130 pounder in boxing.  He has all the ability to fight against any style.  He's very popular in his native land of Puerto Rico and I feel he's on the threshold of some really big fights.  Farenas is a big step up but I know Pedraza will be ready for the challenge."

PEDRAZA VS. FARENAS IBF ELIMINATION BOUT FINALIZED FOR NOVEMBER 14, 2014 IN PUERTO RICO

PUERTO RICO (October 9, 2014) - Gary Shaw Productions, DiBella Entertainment and Universal Promotions' undefeated IBO super featherweight champion and Puerto Rican sensation Jose "Sniper" Pedraza (18-0, 12 KOs) and Philippine contender Michael Farenas (39-4-4, 31 KOs) have finalized their IBF elimination bout scheduled for November 14, 2014, at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico.  The 12-round bout will be televised on DirecTV in Puerto Rico only. Check your local listing for more details. 

Currently ranked WBA #4, WBC #5 and IBF #6, Pedraza will put everything on the line against Farenas, who is currently rated IBF #2, for a chance to fight the current IBF world champion Rances  Barthelemy (21-0, 12 KOs).

Pedraza, who has knocked out five of his last seven opponents, is excited about the opportunity to showcase his talents at home in Puerto Rico where all of his fans will be able to see him fight live.

"I've worked very hard to get into this position and I'm going to take advantage of this opportunity," said Pedraza. "I want to thank Gary Shaw, Lou DiBella and Javier Bustillo for bringing this fight to Puerto Rico. I love my people and I can't wait to give them a great show. Farenas is a very powerful puncher, but I feel my boxing skills will prevail and I'll be victorious."

Riding a five-fight knockout streak, Farenas possesses immense power in both hands. With the advantage in experience, Farenas feels that he has the knowledge to figure out Pedraza, who is a slick boxer-puncher.

"Pedraza brings a great skill set to the ring, but I have twice as many fights as him and my experience will benefit me in this fight," said Farenas. "I have more knockouts than he has wins, so I feel very confident going into this bout. Fighting in Puerto Rico will be something new for me, but I look forward to the challenge of beating Pedraza in front of his countrymen."

"Pedraza vs. Farenas is a great fight for the fans," said Gary Shaw. "Javier Bustillo, Lou DiBella and I have groomed Pedraza for this moment. We both feel that he's the next great champion to come out of Puerto Rico. Farenas is a very dangerous fighter because he can end the fight with one punch. With that being said, Pedraza must utilize his superior boxing skills to counter the punching power of Farenas. This is a great matchup, one that I believe Pedraza will win though."

"When it comes to pure skill and ring intelligence, Pedraza is right there with the best of them," Lou DiBella stated. "Both fighters are on a roll having knocked out many of their recent opponents. This is the type of fight that boxing fans look forward to. I'm confident in Pedraza's ability to outbox Farenas and secure a victory in front of his countrymen."

"When you think of great fighters that have come from Puerto Rico, Pedraza is someone that has the talent to follow in their footsteps," said Javier Bustillo. "On November 14th, the people of Puerto Rico will get the opportunity to see Pedraza fight live against a very perilous opponent in Farenas. This is what boxing is all about...great fights!"

ESPN "FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS" SHAFIKOV ENDS NUGAEV WINNING STREAK JOSE PEDRAZA STOPS MARTINEZ IN SIX

SANTA YNEZ, CA (August 15, 2014) - Gary Shaw Productions presented another great edition ofESPN "Friday Night Fights" at the Chumash Resort Casino in Santa Ynez, Calif.

In the main-event, Lightweight contender Rustam Nugaev's (27-7-1, 17 KOs) five fight knockout streak was halted by a very determined Denis Shafikov (34-1-1, 18 KOs), who put on a stellar performance winning by TKO at the 1:16 mark of round 9.  With the victory, Shafikov becomes the mandatory challenger to fight IBF Lightweight Champion Miguel Vasquez, whom he just lost a close unanimous decision to in his last fight.

"Tonight Shafikov was the better man," said Nugaev. "I couldn't get into a good rhythm with my game plane and it showed.  I still feel I have a lot of fight left in me and I promise I'll be back to fight another day.  I want to thank Gary Shaw for all that he's done for me.  I'm very disappointed I didn't perform to my best ability tonight, but like I said...I'll be back."

In the co-main event, Puerto Rico's shining star and IBO Super-Featherweight champion, Jose "Sniper" Pedraza (18-0, 12 KOs), looked sensational as he defeated the rough and rugged Juan Carlos Martinez (20-15-1, 7 KOs) by way of knockout when Martinez quit on his stool after the sixth round.  The win gets Pedraza one step closer to a world title opportunity as he is currently rankedWBA #4, IBF #7 and WBC #7.

"I knew Martinez was a very tough fighter coming in, but I wanted to make a statement and let the boxing world know that I'm for real," said Pedraza. "I feel I'm ready to fight any of the champions in my weight class.  I'm going to let my promoter Gary Shaw put everything together.  I know I have the talent to bring a world title back home to my people of Puerto Rico.  I'll be back in the gym as soon as I return home."

Undercard Results

Francisco Santana  defeated Luis Alfredo Lugo (5th round TKO)

Khabir Suleymanov defeated Rufino Serrano (Majority Decision) 

Edwin Sandoval defeated Lyonell Kelly (Unanimous Decision) 

Makani Sarellano defeated Andrew Tinae (4th round KO)

Carlos Samuel Lopez defeated Azamat Umarzada (Unanimous Decision)

ESPN "FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS" NUGAEV vs. SHAFIKOV

FRIDAY AUGUST  15, 2014

FROM THE CHUMASH RESORT CASINO

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

"This is going to be one hell of a fight" - Gary Shaw

SANTA YNEZ, CA (August 11, 2014) - Promoter Gary Shaw believes the scheduled main-event onESPN "Friday Night Fights" this week, featuring lightweights Rustam Nugaev vs. Denis Shafikov, is going to be a potential fight of the year candidate. 

Nugaev (27-6-1, 17 KOs), who's rated IBF #5, WBC #3 and WBA #7, is currently riding a 5-fight knockout streak since arriving from Russian in 2013.  Shafikov (33-1-1, 18 KOs), is coming off a 12-round unanimous loss to current IBF champion, Miguel Vasquez (33-3, 13 KOs).  Both fighters have an aggressive style which Gary Shaw believes will make for an exciting night of boxing.  The winner will position himself as the mandatory challenger to fight for the IBF title.

"This is going to be one hell of a fight for the fans," said Gary Shaw. "Nugaev is a tremendous puncher with a great chin and he loves to bring the fight to his opponent.  Shafikov is similar as he also likes to come forward and throw big shots. Both fighters have a lot to gain with a victory.  With the winner becoming the mandatory to fight for the IBF title, I see nothing but fireworks in this fight, and I feel Nugaev will come out on top."

"I have to commend ESPN for showcasing a real fight, a fight that the fans are guaranteed to enjoy.  There have been a lot of mismatches in boxing of late and fight fans deserve to see more hard-hitting competitive fights, especially in a main event attraction.  In Nugaev vs. Shafikov, you have two fighters who are putting everything on the line to get a world title opportunity.  This Friday a "WAR" will be shown on ESPN "Friday Night Fights" so everyone should be tuning in.  This fight has the potential to be Fight of the Year."

The ESPN "Friday Night Fights" telecast begins Friday August 15, 2014 at 9:00 p.m. EST / 6:00 p.m. PST from the Chumash Resort Casino in Santa Ynez, Calif. 

Tickets priced $35, $50, $65, $85, and $95 are on sale now and can be purchased at the Chumash Casino Box office or online at HERE.  Doors open at 5:00 P.M, first fight starts at 5:30 P.M. 

ESPN "FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS" PEDRAZA vs. MARTINEZ

GARY SHAW PRODUCTIONS

Press Release For Immediate Release

CO-MAIN EVENT TO NUGAEV vs. SHAFIKOV FRIDAY AUGUST  15, 2014 FROM THE CHUMASH RESORT CASINO UNDERCARD BOUTS ANNOUNCED TICKETS ON SALE NOW SANTA YNEZ, CA (August 6, 2014) - Gary Shaw Productions undefeated Super-Featherweight sensation, Puerto Rico's, Jose "Sniper" Pedraza (17-0, 11 KOs), makes his way back to the ring against Juan Carlos Martinez (20-14-1, 7 KOs) August 15, 2014 as the co-feature to Rustam Nugaev (27-6-1, 17 KOs) vs. Denis Shafikov (33-1-1, 18 KOs). The 10-round bout will air live on ESPN "Friday Night Fights" and will take place at Chumash Resort Casino in Santa Ynez, Calif. Pedraz, who's knocked out five of his last seven opponents, is currently ranked WBA #4, IBF #7 and WBC #7.  A slick boxer-puncher, Pedraza is not looking past Martinez who recently defeated top contender Alejandro Perez.  He vows to put on a great performance for all the fans in attendance, as well as those watching on TV. "Martinez is coming off an impressive win against Perez who is a good fighter," said Pedraza. "I know he's going to be coming with all he's got to try to knock me off, but I'll be ready for anything he brings. Gary Shaw and Javier Bustillo have once again got me a wonderful opportunity to showcase my skills on an international stage.  A world title fight is right around the corner and I just want to keep getting better with each fight. I'm excited to put on a good show for the fans." "Bustillo and I have really seen the improvement in Pedraza with each fight," said Gary Shaw. "He's advancing brilliantly.  I know he has the skills to take his career to the next level.  Martinez has a lot of skill and he is going to bring a unique style, but I'm confident Pedraza will use his superior boxing skills to come out victorious." Undercard Bouts 8-Round Welterweight Bout Francisco Santana (20-3-1, 9 KOs) vs. Wilfredo Acuna (15-15, 12 KOs) 6-Round Featherweight Bout Rufino Serrano (14-5, 1 KO) vs. Khabir Suleymanov (16-4-1, 6 KOs) 4-Round Super-Bantamweight Bout Edwin Sandoval (2-1, 1 KO) vs. Lyonell Kelly (0-3) 4-Round Heavyweight Bout Makani Sarellano (1-1, 1 KO) vs. Andrew Tinae (0-2) 4-Round Super-Middleweight Bout Carlos Samuel Lopez vs. Jamal Harris (5-10-4, 3 KOs) The ESPN "Friday Night Fights" telecast begins Friday August 15, 2014 at 9:00 p.m. EST / 6:00 p.m. PST from the Chumash Resort Casino in Santa Ynez, Calif.  Tickets priced $35, $50, $65, $85, and $95 are on sale now and can be purchased at the Chumash Casino Box office or online at HERE.  Doors open at 5:00 P.M, first fight starts at 5:30 P.M.

GARY SHAW On Dulorme, Golovkin-Geale, Jennings, More

By Ben Jacobs - BoxingScene.com

Gary Shaw may have had some setbacks over the years but he is working as hard as ever and he currently has a number of fighters who are in significant bouts over the next couple of months.   In addition, Shaw promotes some young talent who may not be far off challenging for big honours themselves.

The New Jersey based promoter took some time to speak to BoxingScene about the likes of Bryant Jennings and Daniel Geale who face Mike Pérez and Gennady Golovin respectively on July 26.  He also discusses future plans for Thomas Dulorme and José Pedraza, among others.

BoxingScene.com: How pleased are you with Thomas Dulorme's progress since he lost to Luis Carlos Abregú?

Obviously in the fight that he lost I would have wished that the trainer had not stopped the fight, I think it would have brought out a lot more in Dulorme.  Since then he's recovered, he had a great win over [Karim] Mayfield on HBO and I'm looking to get him into another big fight.

BoxingScene.com:  Is it true that Ruslan Provodnikov's team turned down a fight with Dulorme?

Yes, it is true.  Rather than fight Chris Algieri, HBO said they'd like to see Dulorme and Provodnikov, and they turned down the fight, they said no.  They chose Algieri which in retrospect was not a good choice.   I don't think Dulorme will fight for world title this year but I'd like to get him another big fight and fight for a world title in 2015.

BoxingScene.com: You also promote his countryman, José Pedraza, could you talk about his progression.

I believe José Pedraza, I'm not comparing him with Trinidad and Cotto, they're at this point in a different class, but of the young guys I believe he's the best on the island.  They're making a big deal out of [Felix] Verdejo, believe me, Verdejo will never fight Pedraza.  Pedraza's a much better fighter, he's had better fights under his belt.  Verdejo is still fighting stiffs.  Pedraza is very good.  He holds the IBO title, he's moving up in the rankings and you'll see a lot more of him in 2015.

BoxingScene.com: Has Gennady Golovkin been overhyped at all and is Daniel Geale his toughest test?  Continue Reading...

JOSE SNIPER PEDRAZA CONTINUES TO IMPRESS WITH FIRST ROUND KO

Photo by William Trillo

NEW YORK (June 7, 2014) - Tonight from the Madison Square Garden in New York, Puerto Rico'sJose "Sniper" Pedraza (17-0, 11 KOs), remained undefeated with an impressive first round knockout over Arturo Uruzquieta (15-7, 6 KOs).

Pedraza, who holds the IBO super-featherweight title, went on the attack as soon as the bell rang.  Multiple combinations to the head and body forced Uruzquieta to take a knee midway through the opening round.  After seeing Uruzquieta take immense punishment, the referee halted the bout at the2:19 mark. Although this bout was a non title matchup, Pedraza who's ranked WBC #5, IBF #8, andWBA #8, wants to return to the ring as soon as possible.

Promoted by Gary Shaw Productions, Universal Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, Pedraza feels he's ready to take on the best in his division.

"It was great to come out to Madison Square Garden and take care of business with a knockout," said Pedraza. "I feel I'm unstoppable right now and I want to challenge all the champions in my weight class. I'm going to see what my promoters have lined up, and continue my march towards unifying all the titles."

"I know the people of Puerto Rico are very proud of Pedraza for his accomplishment in the ring thus far." said Gary Shaw, who promotes Pedraza with Lou DiBella and Javier Bustillo. "I believe Jose is on the fast track to greatness and my business partners and I will look to see what is best for him in the future.  I think it's time to set up some mega fights with the other champions."

Pedraza is a member of "Team Puerto Rico", which is a collaboration between Gary Shaw Productions, DiBella Entertainment and Universal Promotions, made with the goal of gathering the best of Puerto Rico's boxing talents.