January – April 2018

STAY IN THE KNOW WITH MAYWEATHER PROMOTIONS

2017 was a rewarding year for Mayweather Promotions, as we continued to add to our stable of talent, while our existing fighters were recognized nationally and internationally for their accomplishments inside and outside of the ring. Last year also presented losses, as we remember the legacy of one of boxing’s notable figures in the sport. We’re looking forward to an even more prosperous 2018, and thank all of our fans that have joined us on our journey as the PAST.PRESENT. FUTURE of sports and entertainment!

Remembering legendary cut-man, Rafael Garcia

Known for his trademarked pin hat, and a legacy that spans over 70 years in the boxing industry, Rafael Garcia will truly be missed. Most notably known for being Floyd Mayweather’s cut man and the man who the champ trusted most to wrap his hands throughout most of his distinguished career. Garcia was also known to be a part of the careers to 35 world champions that include legends such as: Roberto Duran, Alexis Arguello, Chad Dawson, Wilfredo Gomez, and many more. Garcia will be remembered for his contagious smile in his trademarked pinned hat that he wore with pride that represented all of the countries and championships that he was a part of. He was a cheerful man who had the most positive spirit anytime you were in his presence.

Rafael Garcia was born in Puebla, Mexico where he took up the sport of boxing at age 15 after getting bullied in school. From then on, his career in the industry began, where he transformed from undefeated bantamweight fighter to becoming one of the most successful corner-men the sport has ever seen. After impacting the sport in such a positive way and working with some of the most prominent fighters the sport has seen, Garcia was honored for his contribution to the sport on August 12, 2017, when he made history by being inducted into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame.

 

Garcia will forever be remembered for his contributions to the sport of boxing and the lives he touched. His legacy will leave an everlasting impression on us all. He inspired many lives and his friends and family will dearly miss him. In the words of TBE Floyd Mayweather, “you will always be remembered Grandad.”


The Mayweather Effect

Mayweather Promotions is approaching it’s 11th year as a promotional company, building on its legacy as the leading promotional company in sports and entertainment behind the career of 12-time undefeated world champion, Floyd “Money” Mayweather. We successfully carried that momentum into producing some of the most exciting, record-breaking, and sell-out shows that 2017 saw. 2017 marked another historical and groundbreaking year for Mayweather Promotions, as legendary boxing icon, Floyd “Money” Mayweather rose out of retirement to face The Notorious Conor McGregor. As a result of “The Mayweather Effect,” Mayweather vs. McGregor made history as 2017’s biggest event in sports.

The Showtime PPV presentation of Mayweather vs. McGregor on August 26, 2017 generated the second most pay-per-view buys in North America with an astonishing number of 4.3 million. The total global revenue from this PPV attraction, that includes ticket sales, sponsorship, and international distribution, exceeds $600 million, which contributes to the largest revenue for a single-day sporting event that history has ever seen. This bout has officially become Showtime PPV’s second best event of all time.

Mayweather and Showtime PPV now account for the three-highest grossing pay-per-view events in television history. Mayweather vs. McGregor undeniably became the biggest fight in combat sports history with record-breaking numbers, but this won’t be the last time we make history. Mayweather Promotions continues to build a powerful roster of prospects who will soon be put to the test to create their own legacies in becoming world champions. We look forward to a prosperous 2018 as we plan to produce many more record-breaking events, and championship bouts.

WBC honors Floyd Mayweather with “Event of the Year 2017” Award

12-time undefeated world champion, Floyd “Money” Mayweather, was honored by the WBC the award for, “Event of the Year 2017”. He was the first to make history as he battled toe-to-toe with UFC’s top contender, Conor McGregor, during the historical “The Money Fight” on August 26, 2017. His remarkable performance made history in the sport for overcoming his difficulties and dominating against a bigger, stronger, and heavier fighter to eventually get the knockout win. This fight brought the MMA and boxing industries together for an action-packed night that will never be forgotten. This performance earned Floyd the recognition of being the only ever to win WBC belts in 5 divisions and will continue carrying the legacy of being the greatest in  WBC history.


Badou Jack is nominated for “Best Athlete” and the Radiosporten “Jerring Prize” in his home country of Sweden!

Idrottsgalan has nominated Badou Jack for the second time in his career for “The Male Athlete of Sweden 2017” award, the most prestigious event for athletes in the country of Sweden. This celebrated sports gala dinner will take place on January 18, 2018, and invites about 2,400 guests for an evening of honor to the great Swedish athletes in sports.

Jack has also been nominated by Radiosporten for the “Radiosporten Jerring Prize” an award given by Sweden’s public service radio, and voted on by their radio audience. This award is considered to be the country’s most prestigious athlete honors. He has dedicated his life to becoming the best, and has built an impressive resume over the past 7 years, gaining 22 wins, 13 by way of KO, and only 1 loss. Jack’s remarkable performances in 2017 include: a breakthrough performance against James DeGale in January, ending in what some considered a “debatable” draw, and his most recent accolade, when he made his Light Heavyweight debut and became a two-time world champion with a beautifully executed 5th round TKO that landed him to victory against former world champion Nathan Cleverly on the Mayweather vs. McGregor undercard. Jack is considered to be one of Sweden’s best athletes and first ever Swede to become world champion in two different weight classes.

“To be nominated by my country a second time is pretty remarkable. I didn’t win last year, but knowing I am a prominent figure in sports that Sweden recognizes is pretty awesome. All I can do is continue to be great and perfect what I do best. I will hopefully be attending along with my family if I am not training, overall I’m just happy to be recognized.”

Aside from his notable boxing career, Jack recently traveled overseas for a week to the UAE and Jordan on a goodwill tour to promote peace and unity, which was prompted after the recent tragedies that struck the United States during the latter part of 2017.

While in Dubai, Jack met with a group of 800 passionate college students and staff at the Dubai Global Academy. In alignment with the mission of this academy, to motivate college students to pursue athletics and health along with their academic studies, he spoke to the students about the worth of sport, importance of “moral education,” and the essential role of self-commitment in attaining good results.

In addition, Jack also spoke with students and staff at the Wellington International School in Dubai and in Amman, Jordan visited the Jordan Olympic Committee, the Baqa refugee camp, Rai elementary school, and Yarmouk Orphanage.

Jack is looking forward to continuing his climb to the top in his career, supporting his family, as well as sustaining his commitment to giving back to his community.


New Mexico native and undefeated rising prospect, Angelo Leo (11-0,7KO’s), makes a spectacular Mayweather Promotions debut on November 18th on the Smith vs. Williams, undercard!  

Leo made Sin City his new home 8 months ago in hopes of signing the deal of a lifetime. After making the move, he immediately began training at The Mayweather Boxing Club and sparring constantly against other top prospects in an effort to show his skillset. Leo’s dream came true on November 7th, 2017, when he was given the opportunity to sign with the company’s growing stable of fighters.

A week and a half later, on November 18th, the twenty-three-year-old undefeated prospect was in the ring making his Mayweather Promotions debut on the Smith vs. Williams undercard. Leo displayed a great performance and came out with a victorious 4th round KO win against Basilio Nieves at The Cosmopolitan Hotel in Las Vegas. He is back in the gym training and preparing for his next challenge and looks to continue building a strong fan base in Las Vegas and all over the world. The young fighter is currently trained by his father Miguel Leo and looks to stay consistent and busy as he climbs the ladder to a budding career. Be on the lookout for this breakout Super Bantamweight!

 

 

Badou Jack honored by the WBC with “Exemplary Champion of The Year” Award

Former WBC Super Middleweight champion Badou Jack, became the WBC Super Middleweight champion on April 24, 2015 when he beat Anthony Dirrell by majority decision. Since winning the title, Jack successfully defended his title three times, until finally moving up in weight to the light heavy weight division when he took on former WBA champion Nathan Clevery on the Mayweather vs. McGregor undercard. Although we gained another title in a different organization, Jack still wears his WBC title with pride. Jack remains absolutely loyal to the WBC even proudly showcasing his belt with pride and honor at all times. Badou is an exemplary family man who represents the best of boxing inside and outside the ring. Congratulations to two-time world champion, Badou Jack on his success and achievements throughout his career!

EVENTS

We made sports history last year with the most anticipated and unprecedented events in the industry. As the past, present, and future of sports and entertainment we’ll continue to strive to set the bar even higher. Read below for top sports news, information, and events from boxing to other national titles at stake in the sports world, and beyond.

UPCOMING EVENTS

1/20 Dylan Price & Richardson Hitchins in separate bouts on Spence vs. Peterson undercard

Dylan Price and Richardson Hitchins will be going after their first wins of 2018 on the Spence vs. Peterson undercard in Brooklyn at Barclays. Neither fighter is new to fighting in the city- Price is coming off of a TKO victory over Trevor Ballinger that came inside Barclays Center on November 4, 2017, while Hitchins has made a home fighting at the Brooklyn venue since making his professional debut, with his most recent win against Jordan Morales by unanimous decision back in November of last year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1/27 –Sin City Showdown, Sharif Bogere vs. Arturo Santos

Once beaten Lightweight prospect Sharif Bogere makes his return to Sam’s Town Live against Mexico’s Arturo Santos in 10 rounds of action. This bout marks Bogere’s return to the venue after his recent unanimous decision victory against Jose Luis Rodriguez back in October. The bout will take place on Saturday, January 27th inside Sam’s Town Live, home of Mayweather Promotions’ Sin City Showdown cards.

Also making his return, is Mayweather Promotions’ entertaining and gritty Welterweight prospect Cameron Krael, who was featured as the co-main event on Bogere’s last card at Sam’s Town Live. Krael is determined to make his return and continue his pursuit in becoming a top contender in the Welterweight division. The Sin City Showdown card will also feature Mayweather Promotions’ talented prospects including undefeated Welterweight Sanjarbek Rakhamanov, undefeated Lightweight prospect Xavier Martinez, recently signed Super Bantamweight Angelo Leo who recently made a spectacular Mayweather Promotions debut with a 4th round KO in November, Welterweight prospect Maurice Lee, undefeated Light Middleweight Oluwafemi Oyeleye, and hard-hitting undefeated Lightweight prospect Rolando Romero all in separate bouts.

You can catch the live action by tuning in to Mayweather Promotions’ livestream on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. Tickets and additional event details can be found here: bit.ly/1-27SINCITYSHOWDOWN

 

 

2/17 Danny Garcia vs. Brandon Rios, PLUS David Benavidez vs. Ronald Gavril WBC Super Middleweight Championship rematch

Two-division world champion Danny “Swift’’ Garcia returns to the ring to take on former world champion Brandon “Bam Bam” Rios in a welterweight showdown on Saturday, February 17 live on SHOWTIME at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Last September, David Benavidez became boxing’s youngest world champion when he beat Ronald Gavril in a hard-hitting, crowd-pleasing brawl that was scored a split decision. Gavril and Benavidez will soon face each other to rematch for the WBC Super Middleweight title at Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The first meeting, which took place at The Joint, inside the Hard Rock Hotel was one of the most talked about fights in 2017, as fans and spectators were blown away by the power, heart, and mental toughness Gavril displayed in the ring; even knocking down Benavidez in the 12th and final round with 50 seconds left. The rematch between Benavidez and Gavril was announced on December 21, 2017 and both fighters have already claimed the victory, but only one will either retain his title or become the new WBC Super Middleweight world champion. The live action will be featured on Showtime.

Event tickets and additional event information can be found here: http://bit.ly/GarciaRios

 

RECAPS

11/18/17 Smith vs. Williams

Former Olympian Marlo Moore, kicked off the Smith vs. Williams undercard, while making his professional Heavyweight debut with a flawless TKO victory against Oswaldo Ortega. Mayweather Promotions’ Oluwafemi Oyeleye followed up the action in a super welterweight showdown winning a hard-fought battle vs. Brandon Adams. Super lightweight prospect Darwin Price remained unbeaten with a UD over Angel Hernandez. Lanell Bellows was able to turn his fate inside the ring in his favor by adding another KO victory to his record after stopping Fabiano Pena in the 7th round. Our recently signed super bantamweight prospect Angelo Leo (11-0) made his Mayweather Promotions’ debut and picked up a stoppage win over Basilio Nieves.

  

In a battle of undefeated featherweight prospects kicking off the Bounce TV broadcast, Olympic silver medalist, Tugstsogt Nyambayar overcame adversity when he went the distance for the first time in his career, and came out on top winning an eight round unanimous decision over the hard-hitting Harmonito Dela Torre.

 

Leading up to the main event, Lionell Thompson took on Earl Newman in the co-main and had Newman in serious trouble after a combination of hard shots. Referee Robert Byrd ruled a knockdown when Newman was dropped in the 3rd round but he managed to survive the round. Thompson earned his second knockdown over Newman in the fourth round, leading Thompson to victory- winning the ten-round matchup by way of unanimous decision, serving Newman his first taste of defeat.

 

Julian “J-Rock” Williams and Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith put on a show at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, getting everyone on their feet chanting and cheering for both opponents. Williams was successful in the end, defeating veteran fighter and former world champion, Ishe Smith, but Smith did not bow out easily. Williams and Smith went toe-to-toe in the ring in a full-on brawl. Smith suffered a gash above his right eye early in the rounds, but was still able to give Williams trouble as he worked the body. After 10 rounds of action, judges saw the fight: 97-93, 98-92, and 99-91 in favor of Williams.

SPORTING EVENTS

1/25-28 Winter X Games 22

Location: Aspen, Colorado

Site: http://xgames.espn.com/xgames/

About: The X Games is an annual extreme sports event hosted, produced, and broadcast by ESPN. Coverage is also shown on ESPN’s sister network, ABC. The inaugural X Games were held during the 1995 summer in Newport, Rhode Island. Participants compete to win bronze, silver, and gold medals, as well as prize money. The Games gained media exposure due to their big name sponsors, top-tier athletes, and consistent fan attendance. Concurrent with competition is the “X Fest” sports and music festival, which offers live music, athlete autograph sessions, and interactive elements.

 

2/4 Super Bowl LII

Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota

Site: https://www.nfl.com/super-bowl

About: The Super Bowl was created as part of a merger agreement between the NFL and its then-rival league, the American Football League (AFL). It was agreed that the two leagues’ champion teams would play in the AFL–NFL World Championship Game until the merger was to officially begin in 1970. More information about the teams competing in this year’s championship game is forthcoming.

 

2/9-25 Winter Olympics

Location: Pyeongchang, South Korea

Site: https://www.olympic.org/pyeongchang-2018

About: The Olympic Winter Games is a major international sporting event held once every four years, for sports practiced on snow and ice. The Winter Games have evolved since their inception. Sports and disciplines have been added and some of them, such as alpine skiing, short track speed skating, freestyle skiing, skeleton, and snowboarding, have earned a permanent spot. The United States is the only country that has earned gold medals at each of the Winter Games.

 

2/26 Daytona 500

Location: Daytona Beach, FL

Site: http://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com/Events/2018/DAYTONA-500/DAYTONA-500.aspx

About: The 2018 DAYTONA 500 serves as the pinnacle for the six decades of historic performances, heroic figures and spectacular moments that transformed Bill France’s dream into “The Great American Race”. Don’t miss out when the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup season begins anew with this showcase of speed, skill, and determination as drivers battle the famed 2.5-mile trivial and it’s 31-degree banking to earn the coveted title of DAYTONA 500 Champion.

 

2/28-3/4 UCI Track Cycling World Championships

Location: Apeldoorn, Netherlands

Site: http://www.wkbaanapeldoorn.nl/

About: The 2018 UCI Track Cycling World Championships are the World Championships for track cycling in 2018. They are scheduled to take place in the Netherlands at the Omni sport Apeldoorn.

 

3/8-18 Winter Paralympics

Location: Pyeongchang, South Korea

Site: www.paralympic.org/pyeongchang-2018

About: The Games will feature up to 670 athletes, a 24% increase on the 539 athletes that competed at Sochi 2014. This number includes a 44% increase in the number of female athletes set compete compared to Sochi. Athletes will compete in 80 medal events across six sports: alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, ice hockey, snowboard, and wheelchair curling. Alpine skiing and snowboard events will take place at the Jeongseon Alpine Centre whilst the Aplensia Biathlon Centre will stage biathlon and cross-country events.

 

4/5-8 Masters Tournament

Location: Augusta, Georgia

Site: www.masters.com

About: The Masters Tournament, also known as The Masters or The US Masters, is one of the four major championships in professional golf. Scheduled for the first full week of April, the Masters is the first major of the year, and unlike the others, it is held at the same location, Augusta National Golf Club, a private course in the southeastern United States, in city of Augusta, Georgia.

 

4/4-15 Commonwealth Games

Location: Carrara, Australia

Site: https://www.gc2018.com/

About: The games are overseen by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF), which also controls the sporting program and selects the host cities. The games movement consists of international sports federations (IFs), Commonwealth Games Associations (CGAs), and organizing committees for each specific Commonwealth Games. There are several rituals and symbols, such as the Commonwealth Games flag and Queen’s Baton, as well as the opening and closing ceremonies. Over 5,000 athletes compete at the Commonwealth Games in more than 15 different sports and more than 250 events.

 

ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS

1/17-28 Sundance Film Festival

Location: Park City, Salt Lake City and Sundance, Utah

Site: https://www.sundance.org/

About: With over 46,660 attendees in 2016, it is the largest independent film festival in the United States. Held in January in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, as well as at the Sundance Resort, the festival is a showcase for new work from American and international independent filmmakers. The 2017 Festival showcased 119 feature-length and 68 short films, alongside new episodic work, panels, music and New Frontier.

 

1/20 PGA Awards

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Site: https://www.producersguildawards.com/2018/

About: The Producers Guild Awards is embarking upon their 29th annual event on January 20th. It is one of the awards season’s marquee events as the Producers Guild Awards celebrates the finest producing work of the year, and gives the Guild an opportunity to honor some of the living legends who have shaped our profession.

 

2/13 Mardi Gras New Orleans

Location: New Orleans, LA

Site: http://www.mardigrasneworleans.com/

About: The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced to medieval Europe. In 1870, Mardi Gras’ second Krewe, the Twelfth Night Revelers, was formed. This is also the first recorded account of Mardi Gras “throws.” Newspapers began to announce Mardi Gras events in advance, and they even printed “Carnival Edition” lithographs of parades’ fantastic float designs. Like Comus and the Twelfth Night Revelers, most Mardi Gras krewes today developed from private social clubs with restrictive membership policies. Since all of these parade organizations are completely funded by their members, New Orleanians call it the “Greatest Free Show on Earth!”

 

2/18 BAFTA Awards

Broadcast Network: BBC One

Site: http://awards.bafta.org/

About: The British Academy Film Awards or BAFTA Film Awards are presented in an annual award show hosted by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) to honor the best British and international contributions to film.

 

3/11 Calle Ocho Festival

Location: Miami, Florida

Site: http://carnavalmiami.com/events/calle-ocho/

About: A marquee event of Carnaval Miami, Calle Ocho is the largest Hispanic festival in the nation. Stroll around 20 blocks of Little Havana filled with musical stages, international food, sampling sites, folkloric dances and entertainment for all holistic demographics: families, couples and friends. Calle Ocho has been the platform for the biggest musicians in the Hispanic market such as Pitbull, Niki Jam and others.

 

4/1-30 Skagit Valley TULIP Festival

Location: Skagit Valley, WA

Site: www.tulipfestival.org

About: The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is one of the destination events for the Pacific Northwest, held from April 1-30, celebrating millions of tulips bursting into bloom. As with all things governed by Mother Nature, the tulips bloom according to their own schedule sometime during the festival. The tulips allow them to showcase true Skagit Valley agriculture.

 

4/4 Academy Awards

Broadcast Network: ABC

Site: http://www.oscars.org/oscars

About: Each January, the entertainment community and film fans around the world turn their attention to the Academy Awards. Interest and anticipation builds to a fevered pitch leading up to the Oscar telecast, when hundreds of millions of movie lovers tune in to watch the glamorous ceremony and learn who will receive the highest honors in filmmaking. The 90th Oscars will air live on ABC on Sunday, March 4, 2018.

 

WHAT'S TRENDING?

2017 was a year filled with bright colors, bold designs, and funky celeb trends. We even saw boxing infused into last year’s fashion. Now that the new year has arrived, there’s fashion trends that are making their way from 2017 into 2018, the new year also means new movie releases, and new vacation plans. Here’s a full breakdown of the best of 2017 and newsworthy inspirations to start your new year off right!

 

FASHION

STREETWEAR BRAND SUPREME CONTINUES TO SOAR AND LOOKS TO CLAIM 2018 WITH A POTENTIAL COLLABORATION WITH LUXURY WATCH COMPANY ROLEX, ALONG WITH ANOTHER EPIC COLLAB WITH BOXING GREAT EVERLAST

Supreme x Rolex collaboration could be on the way. The collaboration is said to feature both watches and apparel, and is said to be dropping sometime in 2018.

Back in 2013, Supreme enlisted Bamford Watch Department to customize a Rolex Submariner, of which only 20 were rumored to be made for a price point between $10,000-$12,000 each, later ending up on the resell market for a cool $50,000. The watch featured a box logo engraved on the back and a “FUCK EM” slogan on the dial.

 

A LOOK BACK ON HOW THE SWEET SCIENCE INSPIRED FASHION IN 2017

Big name fashion and lifestyle brands are flocking to the sweet science to add to their portfolio of ready to wear fashion. Could it be that the biggest event in sports history between Mayweather and McGregor injected new life into fashion? Not sure. But what we do know is that 2017 featured some of the most sought-after collaborations inspired by boxing. Streetwear giant Supreme tapped boxing great Everlast for their third collection, which featured two satin boxing robes in red and cheetah print which released in late October, Pharrell’s BAPE collaborated with Japanese brand Ready Made featuring wax canvas gloves and Everlast boxing shorts released back in October, even high-end fashion designer Phillip Plien took a jab into the culture when he designed a fully custom boxing set fit for The Champ; a boxing robe and tracksuit for TBE Floyd Mayweather and his team for his fight against The Notorious Conor McGregor this past August.

Lifestyle brands upped their appeal by selecting celebrities and well-known influencers to market their boxing lines. Reebok added supermodel Gigi Hadid to be the face of their boxing campaign that released first quarter earlier this year, and Adidas pulled supermodel Karlie Kloss and DJ/Lifestyle Influencer Hannah Bronfman as brand ambassadors for their 2017 campaigns.

 

BEST FASHION TRENDS IN 2017, THAT ARE STILL TRENDING INTO 2018

 

Puffer Coats

Band & Vintage Tees

Track Pants

 

SNEAKER RELEASES:

 

TRAVEL

TRAVEL BRANDS ARE GIVING PEOPLE REAL EXPERIENCES, NOT JUST VACATIONS

Travelers also want more out of their trips. They want to come home with stories of new experiences (and Instagram photos) to share with friends. Increasingly, new brands are coming onto the scene to challenge legacy hotel chains, airlines, and others in the industry to give customers experiences when they travel. Airbnb sparked change when it burst onto the scene, but now brands like onefinestay and Afar are creating services and opportunities for people with wanderlust who also want to come back from their vacations having experienced something incredible and new.

ONE FINE STAY | @onefinestay

Onefinestay offers luxury homes and apartments to fit modest to higher-priced budgets, that travelers can have all to themselves, but it also offers some hotel-like amenities including airport transfers, housekeeping, childcare, and grocery services.

Benefits:

  • We handpick the finest homes in the best destinations
  • Each home must meet our exacting hospitality standards
  • We’re the only company that visits and vets every home in person
  • We look for space, character and comfort – only 1 in 10 make the cut

 

 

 

 

 

AFAR

Afar, which started as a print magazine and digital publication targeting people who wanted to do more and experience more on their trips, is now a platform that helps people find and save destinations, restaurants and experiences that fit their travel desires. The site is categorized into 5 categories: Travel Guides, Inspiration, Tips + News, Hotels, and Journeys perfect to plan your next adventure.

 

DESTINATIONS TO VISIT THIS YEAR

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The long-awaited opening of the Louvre Abu Dhabi is reason enough to travel to this Middle Eastern emirate. It took 10 years and an estimated $600 million dollars to build French architect Jean Nouvel’s vision of a massive cupola that shades 55 buildings housing a collection of works from such artists as Ai Weiwei, Vincent van Gogh, Jenny Holzer, and Leonardo da Vinci. While you’re there, you can also stroll the city-length seaside promenade and see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque’s pristine white domes or sleep in a Bedouin tent in the middle of a desert.

 

 

 

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

Kuala Lumpur is famously multicultural: In the course of a day, you can wander the Chinese zodiac sculpture garden at colorful Thean Hou Temple, ogle the 40-foot-tall Hindu monkey god at Sree Veera Hanuman Temple, and learn about Islam on a volunteer-led tour of Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan, an architecturally magnificent mosque that holds up to 17,000 worshippers. You’ll also find a wealth of Asian art on display at the inaugural KL Biennale, which concludes at the end of March at the National Visual Arts Gallery. The capital is thrumming with energy; new construction appears around every bend. But traditional kampong life can still be observed in time-capsule neighborhoods such as Pudu, Lucky Garden, and the back streets of Chinatown. Getting lost on foot is the best way to experience it.

 

 

 

PALAU

Palau is one of the tiniest countries in the world, known for the superlative underwater experiences to be had in spots such as its UNESCO-designated Southern Lagoon. But this remote archipelago has also become a heavyweight in the climate change fight: Over the last few years, Palau designated a Marine Protected Area the size of France; limited flights from China (its largest source of tourism); restricted development; banned plastic bags; and announced the “Palau Pledge”—an oath to protect the islands’ natural and cultural resources that all visitors must take upon arrival. Making sustainability such an intrinsic—and explicit—part of the travel process puts this future-thinking paradise high on our list for 2018.

 

 

COZY HOTELS YOU WON’T WANT TO LEAVE

 Hotel Emma, San Antonio, TX

A 19th-century former brewhouse in San Antonio’s vibrant Pearl Brewery district has been beautifully converted into the 146-room Hotel Emma, named for the wife of the original brewer. Envisioned by noted hotel design firm, Roman and Williams, the décor melds details and items salvaged from the historic building with lots of rich woods, buttery leathers, and handwoven textiles creating spaces that curling up with loved ones. http://www.thehotelemma.com/

 

 

 

 

 

One &Only Palmilla, Los Cabos Resort, San José del Cabo, Mexico

When this Mexican glamour spot opened in the 1950s, A-listers like Ernest Hemingway and John Wayne could access its sandy shores only via yacht or private plane. The resort retains that hideaway feel, with its whitewashed buildings tucked amid swaying palms and fragrant gardens and fronting a sugary sand beach. Butlers arrange romantic experiences, filling rooms with candles, creating beach bonfires beneath the stars with food care of the on-site Jean-Georges restaurant, and chartering yachts for sunset sails. All rooms front the ocean, but we suggest upgrading to a casita for private (skinny-dip-friendly) pools.

 

 

 

 

Auberge du Soleil, Rutherford, CA

As its name would suggest, this wine-country retreat knows the magic of good lighting, whether it’s the Napa sun on your skin as you recline poolside in a gauze-draped chaise or the soft glow of the fire in the Michelin-starred restaurant that put this spot on the map. It’s a Provençal-inspired property spread over acres of gardens and olive groves and one that lavishes couples with thoughtful details. Start a bottle of the good stuff over dinner? The remainder will be delivered to your room with glasses. French doors open onto patios where your morning coffee is served. And staff set the scene for romance in the bathrooms with candles, bath oils, and skylit tubs. Splurge on a couples spa treatment in a suite with its own hot tub, fireplace, and garden, after which you can wander from hot to cold soaking pools, sauna to steam room.

 

 

 

 

ENTERTAINMENT

 OFFSET NAMED BEST FEATURE ARTIST OF 2017

2017 reinstated rap’s resurgence in mainstream music. On Spotify, hip-hop listening increased by 74% globally. Not seen since the mid ’00s had there been five rap number ones in a calendar year in the United States.

Migos kicked off the year with their trap-heater turned pop-anthem “Bad and Boujee,” and they’d soon capitalize by dropping Culture at the apex of their hype, which, despite being overlooked in some end-of-year lists due to it’s January release, stands its ground as one of the best rap projects of this decade. Offset – a man utterly hell-bent on packing in as many fire features into a year as humanly possible.

Throughout 2017, Offset set it off with this slew of ferocious features on the most high-profile – and most-underrated – projects in hip-hop this year. He’s gone harder than anyone else on his features this year, and thrown down the gauntlet for 2018. We can agree that Migos as a whole shows no plans of slowing down, gaining a couple Grammy nods. 2017 proved to be in favor of the 1/3 member, Offset.

 

 

MOVIE RELEASES

1/12/2018 – PROUD MARY

Taraji P. Henson is Mary, a hit woman working for an organized crime family in Boston, whose life is completely turned around when she meets a young boy whose path she crosses when a professional hit goes bad. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/proud_mary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1/12/2018 – SATURDAY CHURCH

Saturday Church tells the story of 14-year-old Ulysses, a shy and effeminate boy, who finds himself coping with new responsibilities as “man of the house” after the death of his father. Living alongside his mother, younger brother, and conservative aunt, Ulysses is also struggling with questions about his gender identity. He finds an escape by creating a world of fantasy filled with dance and music. Ulysses’ journey takes a turn for the better when he encounters a vibrant transgender community, who take him to “Saturday Church,” a program for LGBTQ youth. Ulysses manages to keep his two worlds apart; appeasing his aunt and discovering his passion for the NYC ball scene, and voguing, until his double life is revealed. Ulysses must find the courage to be who he truly is, all while risking losing those he cares about most.

 

 

 

 

 

1/19/2018 – THE FINAL YEAR

The Final Year is a unique insiders’ account of President Barack Obama’s foreign policy team during their last year in office. Featuring unprecedented access inside the White House and State Department, THE FINAL YEAR offers an uncompromising view of the inner workings of the Obama Administration as they prepare to leave power after eight years.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2/9/2018 – FIFTY SHADES FREED

Believing they have left behind shadowy figures from their past, newlyweds Christian and Ana fully embrace an inextricable connection and shared life of luxury. But just as she steps into her role as Mrs. Grey and he relaxes into an unfamiliar stability, new threats could jeopardize their happy ending before it even begins.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3/16/2018 – TOMB RAIDER

Lara Croft is the fiercely independent daughter of an eccentric adventurer who vanished when she was scarcely a teen. Now a young woman of 21 without any real focus or purpose, Lara navigates the chaotic streets of trendy East London as a bike courier, barely making the rent, and takes college courses, rarely making it to class. Determined to forge her own path, she refuses to take the reins of her father’s global empire just as staunchly as she rejects the idea that he’s truly gone. Advised to face the facts and move forward after seven years without him, even Lara can’t understand what drives her to finally solve the puzzle of his mysterious death. Going explicitly against his final wishes, she leaves everything she knows behind in search of her dad’s last-known destination: a fabled tomb on a mythical island that might be somewhere off the coast of Japan. But her mission will not be an easy one; just reaching the island will be extremely treacherous. Suddenly, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Lara, who–against the odds and armed with only her sharp mind, blind faith and inherently stubborn spirit–must learn to push herself beyond her limits as she journeys into the unknown. If she survives this perilous adventure, it could be the making of her, earning her the name tomb raider.

FEATURED FIGHTER: ANDREW TABITI

 

Andrew “The Beast” Tabiti was introduced to boxing in 2006 at the age of 17. Now, as an undefeated rising contender in the Cruiserweight division, he is seeking new heights as he makes his way to the top if his division, in pursuit of a world title opportunity. Learn more about this quarter’s featured fighter and his lifestyle beyond the ring below.

Do you feel like your opponents have overlooked you as a young fighter in the game? If so, do you view this as an advantage?

Yes, stepping in the boxing world, a lot of people have overlooked me as a young fighter in the game because I don’t have too much experience as an amateur or even as a pro being that I’m not a seasoned vet. When I fought Steve Cunningham on the Mayweather vs. McGregor undercard, I think people were able to see my potential.

What fight card that you have been featured on have you been most excited about?

The fight card I was most excited about was the Mayweather vs. Pacquiao card. I was supposed to be featured on the undercard of that fight, but it didn’t happen because of something that went wrong with my opponent. I was so excited about that fight and it really hurt that I wasn’t able to fight that night.

Being a fighter is tough mentally and physically, what are ways that you stay motivated in the gym to become a better fighter?

I agree that being a fighter is tough mentally and physically. I stay motivated by remaining dedicated to what I do. I always think back to where I used to be, how I used to live, and how I grew up. It was real hard, so that motivates me to do what I need to do in order to get to where I need to go.

What are your current career goals, and what is your game plan to reach those goal(s)?

My career goal is to become a world champion. When I make the money after becoming a world champion I want to make a name for myself; become a household name. I also want to give back to others and open businesses so that I can generate money outside of boxing. I’ve been planning this for a very long time and I’m motivated to reach each of my goals.

How do you balance work (boxing) and your family/social life?

I balance boxing and my family/social life by putting boxing first but always making time for my family. I put my family right after boxing and as for a social life, I don’t have too much of a social life. I’m an “out of sight, out of mind” type of person so I hang with the people who stay around.

Name your top 5 music artists right now and your favorite hype song to listen to while you’re training.

It’s so many talented artists out there right now. A few that I like are: Drake, Chris Brown, Ginuwine, and I like Beyonce. My favorite hype song would be Fabolous- To the Sky. That’s the song I’ll listen to before a fight or while I’m training and when I run. It helps motivate me.

Besides boxing, are you a fan of other sports? Who are your favorite team(s)?

Besides boxing, I like football and basketball. I don’t watch it too much because I devote most of my time to boxing but try to watch football occasionally. Football teams I like are the Bears and the Patriots. The Patriots are definitely going to the playoffs, everyone knows that, but I think they’re going to win the Super Bowl Championship again.

Outside of boxing, what do you enjoy doing most?

Outside of boxing I like to kickback, hang out with close friends, and eat ice cream. I also like to chill, listen to good music and keep good vibes around me. I’m real low-key and I just stay in my lane.

FEATURED STAFF: ASHLEY ASTON

Meet Ashley, a mom of two who has brought her small-town fun-loving personality to Sin City! Living and working in a fast-paced environment unlike where she grew up, has allowed Ashley to grow and strengthen her skills on a career and personal level.  Continue reading to learn more about this quarter’s featured staff member Ashley Aston, her experiences at Mayweather Promotions, and what she thinks of the nightlife in Vegas.

Where are you originally from and how does it differ from Las Vegas?

I was born and raised in Twin Falls, Idaho, a town where hunting and fishing are a way of life. Although hunting and fishing is enjoyed in many places, it’s much more prevalent in Idaho. Twin Falls gives off a small-town feel, where you’re more inclined to know who your neighbors are and see them on frequent occasions, unlike Las Vegas, where everything is so spread out and there are many different neighborhoods for entertainment and living all over the city. My town was so small, that my graduating class had approximately one hundred students in it.

What is your role at Mayweather Promotions? How did you get started and how long have you been with the company?

My main role is Executive Assistant at Mayweather Promotions; however I am also responsible for coordinating travel for our events. Those responsibilities are: booking flight reservations for fighters and their camps, preparing hotels and ensuring reservations are accurate, organizing ground transportation during fight week, and communicating with each fighter and their camp as necessary with updates or changes. My day-to-day role entails working directly with the VP of Marketing and Operations to complete necessary administrative duties. The VP of Marketing and Operations approached me about two years ago at my previous place of employment, as she was blown away by my work ethic and professionalism, which eventually led to a full-time role with the company.

What makes you proud to be part of the Mayweather Promotions team?

Not only does our team exude a high level of professionalism, we collectively work as a team to put together amazing events, such as Mayweather vs. McGregor that will have people talking for years to come. Whenever I run into people and they ask where I work, that question is always followed by intrigue and more questions about how I got started. That alone makes me proud to be able to say I work for the best promotion company in sports and entertainment.

What do you find to be the biggest challenge trying to balance your career and family?

Trying to balance career and family has been a rewarding challenge. I have learned how to give my family the time and attention they need while also getting my work done. I am given some flexibility to sometimes work from home with my children present, allowing me to focus on maximizing my time to ensure they are taken care of and my tasks get completed on time, which isn’t always easy.  This has allowed me to grow in many ways and strengthen my organization and time management skills as a professional and mother.

What is the most important thing you’ve learned since working at MP?

I’ve learned how to perform better under pressure, the importance of effective communication, and how to work well in a team environment.  I am usually more productive under pressure if I remain level headed and calm, and stay focused in high-pressure situations.  Communication is invaluable, and a necessity at Mayweather Promotions to minimize the risk of misunderstanding or providing incorrect information to the parties we work with. Working on various teams has allowed us to complete projects efficiently, support one another, and promote individual creativity.

At a fast-paced company like MP, you are often on the go and multitasking. Are there any techniques or exercises (both physical and mental) that you perform to keep sharp?

Meditation is key to staying sharp. I think it’s important to meditate in the morning about the goals you need to accomplish that day, and at night before bed about the events of the day so you can put it all behind you and sleep comfortably.

Since you began working at Mayweather Promotions, how has your interest in boxing grown?

My interest in the sport has grown 100%. The only fight I had ever seen before working at MP was Mayweather vs. Pacquiao and at that time I honestly knew nothing about boxing. Now that I am more involved with booking fighters travel, I am more engaged to see how they perform against one another, and have a better understanding of what goes on in the ring.

What is your perfect idea of a night on the town in Vegas?

When people think of Vegas they envision a night hanging out on the strip or going to a show, but I’m a simple girl who loves great food and a movie without the kids. There’s so much entertainment and dining in Vegas outside of the strip that many don’t know about!

What is the best advice you’ve received by the President, CEO, or VP of Marketing and Operations at Mayweather Promotions?

The best advice I’ve received is to stay focused and always keep the goal or goals that needs to be accomplished in the forefront of your mind, because there are always going to be obstacles that may deter you from accomplishing them.

What key characteristics do you possess that allow you to successfully complete your duties at MP while also staying motivated?

I am positive, upbeat, and I have great work ethic. There’s never a time when something important isn’t going on, and I’ll always make sure that the job gets done.

 

Since you began working at Mayweather Promotions, what has been the highlight of your career (an event, advice, friendship, etc)?

 An obvious highlight of my time at Mayweather Promotions is the Mayweather vs. McGregor event because it was my first experience working an event of such great magnitude. To have been a part of something on the level of that event was amazing!   Another experience that was equally fulfilling is The Floyd Mayweather Jr. Foundation Back-2-School 5th Giveaway. While working this event, a little boy ran up to me and hugged me with tears of joy in his eyes after he received his bookbag filled with school supplies. To know the impact that the foundation has on the community is eye opening, and I know that all the inspiring experiences will stay with me forever.

Tell us one fun fact about yourself that most people wouldn’t know.

I used to manage a chain of movie theaters in Idaho while I was still a teenager in high school.   I started the position working concessions stands and sprouted into a management role. Over time I worked in various positions at the management level, from assistant manager of an individual theater, to head manager of a larger one, and finally district manager of six theaters including two drive-in theaters. The corporation entrusted me with so much responsibility at a young age because I had proven my ability to successfully bring revenue in to the theaters.  My main duties as a manager involved overseeing the employment process, staff schedules, product inventory, balancing the registers nightly, customer satisfaction, movie promotion, and filling in as a projectionist.

Movies used to require a lot more work behind-the-scenes before audiences could enjoy it. Working as a manager and being a full-time student was a lot of work but it was a very enjoyable experience that helped prepare me for the workforce as an adult.

FEATURED FAN

We have fans all across the globe that we enjoy staying connected with via social media and at our events. Each quarter, we select some of our top fans to highlight and show our appreciation. Read below to learn more about two of our top fans this quarter as they open up about their favorite Mayweather Promotions fighter.

Sylvia Joyner is a 51 year old Washingtonian. She attended University of the District of Columbia (UDC) and Strayed College and is a mother of four beautiful young ladies. She fell in love with the sport of boxing at the age of 15 through her summer job assignment, working at the Mid-Town Youth Center (Boxing Gym).  She realized she needed street smarts and was eager to learn the game. The owner and trainer, Mr. Gene Hughes, would let her watch as he trained and coached the young boys/men for their upcoming fights and taught her the ends and outs as well. Boxing has motivated and inspired her to want to get involved more and she’s currently in the process of getting a license to become a boxing judge. Her favorite Mayweather Promotions fighter is former IBF Lightweight champion, Gervonta Davis. Read below to learn why Davis is her favorite and what it’s like to be a fan of the undefeated fighter.

How long have you been a fan of Gervonta and in what ways do you or have you supported Gervonta?

Being that Gervonta is from my hometown of Baltimore, I have always made sure to show him support for his upcoming fights, as well as other fighters from the Baltimore area, by sending messages on social media wishing him good luck or commenting on his progress. I enjoy watching him fight and develop as a fighter. Gervonta is a winner and I am excited to see where his career takes him in the future.

What was the first Gervonta fight you watched on TV or  at an event?  

The first time I saw him fight was in 2013 at the DC Armory in DC, when he fought Desi Williams in his pro-debut. My initial reaction to seeing him fight was “damn that boy got skills.” Ever since then, I became a loyal fan of Gervonta and have enjoyed watching him grow into a champion.

What’s your favorite Gervonta moment?

A moment I’ll never forget is when he took a picture with my twin daughters. We attended a fight at the MGM in Oxon Hill, MD in April of 2017 and Gervonta was there. Without any hesitation, he gladly took a photo with my daughters and I witnessed first-hand how he handles himself like a true champ and is friendly and kind to his fans and supporters.

If you could meet Gervonta, describe to us the perfect meeting experience. If you have met Gervonta describe the experience to us.

If I had the opportunity to sit down to talk to Gervonta, I would also ask if he could go with me to my granddaughter’s school to speak to the little boys and girls and give them positive advice.

What traits do you think sets Gervonta apart from others?

From what I’ve seen, Gervonta is courteous and respectful outside of the ring. Inside of the ring, he shows he has what it takes to be #1. He has taken his talent to the next limit in every opportunity he’s been given.

What impact has Gervonta had on your life or in what ways has he inspired you?

What has inspired me the most is his personality and how he handles himself in the public eye. I respect that I’ve never seen him out of character. As a fan, that shows me his dedication and drive to be #1 in boxing and his focus on reaching his goals.

Name one skill that Gervonta has mastered in the squared circle and how you think it will effective against all competition.

Easy… knockouts!

If you could provide Gervonta with any advice, words of encouragement, or gratitude, what would you say?

I would tell him to keep his “eyes to the street” meaning always be mindful of your surroundings.  Go to school and learn about your finance, never rely on someone else to do that for you.  Keep yourself surrounded with positive people that you know will have your back at all times. Trust no one but GOD.  Follow your heart and can and will the next Champ of all times.  Never forget where you came from, but that doesn’t mean you have to stay there.  Help the little kids and teach and become a big brother.  Help someone else to get out.  Don’t get caught up on the hype.  Nothing but Love!

 

 

David Palacios is 25 years old and was born and raised in Canada. He has been boxing since the age of 13 and has won and competed at a national level. He’s been a Mayweather fan since he fought Zab Judah in 2006 and has supported Mayweather Promotions since day 1. Currently, his favorite MP fighter is boxing prospect, Kevin Newman. Read below to learn why David chose “The Second Coming” as his favorite fighter.

How long have you been a fan of Kevin?

I’ve been a fan of Kevin since way back to his amateur days. His skill set and boxing style captured my attention.

What was the first Kevin fight you watched or seen live?

I’ve seen all of his pro fights and I’ve watched him spar on Mayweather boxing channel but the first fight I saw was his pro-debut against Azamat Umarzoda. The fight decision was a draw, but it was a great fight to watch.

Which fight is your all-time favorite Kevin Newman fight?

It has to be Newman vs. Umarzoda, the rematch. Kevin fought hard to get the unanimous decision victory over Umarzoda. As a fan, it was exciting to watch him earn a victory over an opponent he fought prior that ended in a draw. He proved to himself and his fans that he continues to grow and get better as a fighter in the ring.

If you could meet Kevin, describe to us the perfect meeting experience. If you have met Kevin describe the experience to us.

If I could meet him I would just hang with him at the Mayweather Boxing Club and have him show me Vegas and cruise the city.

What impact has Kevin had on your life or in what ways has he/ inspired you?

I am a boxer myself, so I have studied his fights, training, and sparring. Seeing him remain motivated to get better every time he steps in the ring and evolve as a boxer has helped make me a better fighter.

In your opinion, how has Kevin positively impacted the sport of boxing?

I think he’s impacted the industry by giving hope to fighters coming up behind him who haven’t been fighting all their lives and fighters who didn’t begin boxing at a very young age. He’s proof that you don’t have to start off boxing at the youngest age and can still find success.

Name one skill that Kevin has mastered in the squared circle and how you think it will effective against all competition.

He’s has mastered defense.

If you could provide Kevin with any advice, words of encouragement, or gratitude, what would you say?

He already knows this but, I would tell him I truly believe he can do it…I think he’s a true champion!

 

Thank you to all Mayweather Promotions fans for your overwhelming support!

 

SHOP

Shop the latest collections & drops from our selection of Mayweather Promotions, Mayweather Sports, and TMT apparel & accessories. TMT recently dropped the highly anticipated Declaration & Marble hoodie, worn by The Champ during his Mayweather vs. McGregor Press Tour. Shop the full selection of TMT gear here!