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HIT SHOW DANA WHITE’S CONTENDER SERIES  CONTINUES ITS FOURTH SEASON WITH EPISODE 2 AIRING LIVE TUESDAY FROM UFC APEX IN LAS VEGAS

HIT SHOW DANA WHITE’S CONTENDER SERIES  CONTINUES ITS FOURTH SEASON WITH EPISODE 2 AIRING LIVE TUESDAY FROM UFC APEX IN LAS VEGAS

ALL EPISODES WILL AIR EXLUSIVELY ON ESPN+

 

The fourth season of the hit show Dana White’s Contender Series continues with Episode 2, featuring a lineup of rising athletes looking to make their dreams come true by impressing UFC President Dana White and earning a spot on the UFC roster.

 

The second episode of season four takes place on Tuesday, August 11 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, with all five bouts streaming exclusively on ESPN+ in the US.

 

ESPN+ is available through the ESPN.com, ESPNPlus.com or the ESPN App on all major mobile and connected TV devices and platforms, including Amazon Fire, Apple, Android, Chromecast, PS4, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, X Box One and more. Fans can sign up for $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year, with no contract required.

 

To support your coverage, please find the download link to the season four sizzle reels here and here. In addition, please find the download link for the season four athlete feature here, which highlights some of the participating athletes, their backgrounds and what competing on Dana White’s Contender Series means to them.

 

Season 4, Episode 2 – Confirmed Bouts:

Middleweight
Dustin Stoltzfus vs. Joe Pyfer

 

Bantamweight
Adrian Yanez vs. Brady Huang

 

Women’s Strawweight
Vanessa Demopoulos vs. Cory McKenna

 

Featherweight
TJ Laramie vs. Daniel Swain

 

Middleweight
Anthony Adams vs. Impa Kasanganay

 

Visit the UFC.com for information and additional content to support your UFC coverage.

 

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 318 million fans and 102 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 175 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 65 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

 

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment enterprise, features more than 50 assets – nine U.S. television networks, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN International, ESPN The Magazine and more.  ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

 

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown quickly to 7.9 million subscribers in less than two years, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content.

 

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HIT SHOW DANA WHITE’S CONTENDER SERIES RETURNS FOR ITS FOURTH SEASON, AIRING LIVE TUESDAYS FROM UFC APEX IN LAS VEGAS

 

HIT SHOW DANA WHITE’S CONTENDER SERIES RETURNS FOR ITS FOURTH SEASON, AIRING LIVE TUESDAYS FROM UFC APEX IN LAS VEGAS

ALL EPISODES WILL AIR EXLUSIVELY ON ESPN+

 

The hit show Dana White’s Contender Series officially returns for its fourth season featuring a lineup of new and returning athletes looking for their chance to impress Dana White and make their UFC dreams come true by competing to earn a spot on the UFC roster.

 

Season four is scheduled for 10 Tuesday night episodes, with the first taking place on Tuesday, August 4 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, with all five bouts streaming exclusively on ESPN+.

 

ESPN+ is available through the ESPN.com, ESPNPlus.com or the ESPN App on all major mobile and connected TV devices and platforms, including Amazon Fire, Apple, Android, Chromecast, PS4, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, X Box One and more. Fans can sign up for $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year, with no contract required.

 

Over its past three seasons, Dana White’s Contender Series has introduced some of UFC’s top prospects from around the world, including launching the UFC careers for such athletes as Sean O’Malley, Edmen Shahbazyan, Dan Ige, Maycee Barber, Sodiq Yusuff and more. To this day, eight Dana White’s Contender Series alums have competed in UFC main or co-main events and 16 signees are currently in the top 15 of their respective divisions, making it one of the most successful talent-discovery shows in UFC history.

 

To support your coverage, please find the download link to the season four sizzle reel here. In addition, please find the download link for the season four athlete feature here, which highlights some of the participating athletes, their backgrounds and what competing on Dana White’s Contender Series means to them.

 

Bouts included in the first episode of season 4:

Light heavyweight
Ty Flores vs. Dustin Jacoby

 

Lightweight
Uros Medic vs. Mikey Gonzalez

 

Flyweight
Luis Rodriguez vs. Jerome Rivera

 

Lightweight
Jordan Leavitt vs. Luke Flores

 

Visit the UFC.com for information and additional content to support your UFC coverage.

 

About UFC®
UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 318 million fans and 102 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 175 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 65 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

 

About ESPN
ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment enterprise, features more than 50 assets – nine U.S. television networks, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN International, ESPN The Magazine and more.  ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

 

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown quickly to 7.9 million subscribers in less than two years, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content.

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HARD-HITTING HEAVYWEIGHT FINISHERS (#4) DERRICK LEWIS AND (#11) ALEKSEI OLEINIK COLLIDE AT UFC® APEX

HARD-HITTING HEAVYWEIGHT FINISHERS
(#4) DERRICK LEWIS AND (#11) ALEKSEI OLEINIK
COLLIDE AT UFC® APEX

FEATURED BOUTS:

(#11) OMARI AKHMEDOV vs. CHRIS WEIDMAN

(#14) BENEIL DARIUSH vs. SCOTT HOLTZMAN

 

UFC® continues its run of August events at UFC APEX, headlined by a battle of heavyweight contenders, as No. 4 ranked Derrick Lewis squares off with No. 11 Aleksei Oleinik. The co-main event will feature No. 11 ranked middleweight contender Omari Akhmedov, who aims to take out his first former UFC champion when he faces Chris Weidman.

 

The event will be closed to the public and will be produced with only essential personnel in attendance pursuant to a Health, Safety and Operations plan approved by the Nevada Athletic Commission.

 

UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+®: LEWIS vs. OLEINIK will take place Saturday, August 8 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas, with all fights carried exclusively on ESPN+ in English and Spanish. The main card begins at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT on Saturday, August 8, with the prelims kicking off at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT.

 

A former title challenger, Lewis (23-7 1NC, fighting out of Houston, Texas) is among the most exciting KO artists in the heavyweight division. Throughout his UFC run, he has delivered impressive KO finishes against Alexander Volkov, Marcin Tybura and Travis Browne. Lewis also holds a decision victory over perennial top contender Francis Ngannou. Lewis now looks to earn his third consecutive win to re-assert himself as a dangerous title threat.

 

Considered among the most skilled heavyweight grapplers, Oleinik (59-13-1, fighting out of Moscow, Russia) continues to turn heads with his trademark Ezekiel choke submission. A 24-year MMA veteran, he has delivered spectacular victories over Fabricio Werdum, Mark Hunt and Mirko Cro Cop. Oleinik now hopes to add another top heavyweight to his hit list and crack the UFC heavyweight top five for the first time in his career.

 

Unbeaten since returning to the middleweight division in 2017, Akhmedov (20-4-1, fighting out of Makhachkala, Russia) goes for his most important win yet. A gritty Sambo fighter, Akhmedov secured hard-fought wins over Ian Heinisch, Zak Cummings and Tim Boetsch. In the biggest spotlight of his career, Akhmedov has his sights set on taking out his first former UFC champion to continue his ascent up the 185-pound ladder.

 

A former UFC middleweight champion, Weidman (14-5, fighting out of Baldwin, N.Y.) returns to the 185-pound division ready to climb back to the top of the mountain. A decorated grappler, Weidman dethroned all-time great Anderson Silva for the middleweight belt in 2013. During his reign he netted successful title defenses against Silva, Lyoto Machida and Vitor Belfort. Weidman now aims to re-enter the middleweight rankings with a dominant win over a tough emerging contender.

 

Additional bouts on the card include:

  • Maki Pitolo (12-5, fighting out of Mākaha, Hawaii) squares off with Darren Stewart (11-4 1NC, fighting out of London, England) in an exciting middleweight bout
  • No. 8 ranked women’s bantamweight contender and former women’s featherweight title challenger Yana Kunitskaya (12-5 1NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, FL by way of Saint Petersburg, Russia) meets debuting Julija Stoliarenko (9-3-1, fighting out of Kaunas, Lithuania)
  • In a battle of rising lightweights, No. 14 ranked contender Beneil Dariush (18-4-1, fighting out of Yorba Linda, Calif.) takes on Scott Holtzman (14-3, fighting out of Knoxville, Tenn.)
  • Tim Means (29-12-1 1NC, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) makes his 22nd UFC appearance against Laureano Staropoli (9-2, fighting out of La Plata, Argentina)
  • Nasrat Haqparast (11-3, fighting out of Hamburg, Germany) hopes to return to his winning ways when he faces undefeated Alex Munoz (6-0, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.)
  • Andrew Sanchez (12-5, fighting out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada) locks horns with Wellington Turman (16-3, fighting out of Curitiba, Brazil)
  • Gavin Tucker (11-1, fighting out of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada) meets Justin Jaynes (16-4, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) in a clash of entertaining featherweights
  • Youssef Zalal (9-2, fighting out of Englewood, Colo. by way of Casablanca, Morocco) aims to continue his momentum when he meets Peter Barrett (11-3, fighting out of Somerville, Mass.)
  • Irwin Rivera (9-5, fighting out of Hudson Valley, N.Y. by way of Mexico City, Mexico) hopes to earn his first UFC victory when he takes on Ali Alqaisi (8-3, fighting out of Jordan)

 

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage.

 

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 318 million fans and 102 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 175 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 65 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

 

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown quickly to 7.9 million subscribers in less than two years, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content.

 

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) through the ESPN App, (on mobile and connected devices), ESPN.com or ESPNplus.com. It is also available as part of a bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu (ad-supported), and ESPN+ ­— all for just $12.99/month.

 

 

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment enterprise, features more than 50 assets – nine U.S. television networks, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN International, ESPN The Magazine and more.  ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

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UFC Returns to UFC Apex with Five Action-Packed Cards in August

UFC® RETURNS TO UFC APEX WITH FIVE ACTION-PACKED CARDS IN AUGUST

 

TOP MIDDLEWEIGHT CONTENDERS CLASH AS (#8) DEREK BRUNSON AND (#9) EDMEN SHAHBAZYAN HEADLINE FIRST AUGUST EVENT

FEATURED BOUTS:

(#3) JOANNE CALDERWOOD vs. (#6) JENNIFER MAIA

(#12) VICENTE LUQUE vs. RANDY BROWN

 

UFC® returns to Las Vegas with a series of action-packed cards every Saturday night in August, kicking off with a clash of top middleweight contenders as No. 8 Derek Brunson looks to hand No. 9 Edmen Shahbazyan his first professional loss.

 

The remaining cards will be announced at a later date. All events will be closed to the public and will be produced with only essential personnel in attendance pursuant to a Health, Safety and Operations plan approved by the Nevada Athletic Commission.

 

UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+®: BRUNSON vs. SHAHBAZYAN will take place Saturday, August 1 at UFC Apex in Las Vegas with all fights carried exclusively on ESPN+ in English and Spanish. The main card begins at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, with the prelims kicking off at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT.

 

A staple of the middleweight top 10, Brunson (20-7, fighting out of Wilmington, N.C.) returns to action intending to once again stop the ascent of another fast-rising prospect. Despite his All-American wrestling background, Brunson has developed into one of the most explosive strikers in the division with knockout wins over Lyoto Machida, Uriah Hall and Sam Alvey. He now looks to extend his current win streak and work his way back towards the top five by becoming the first person to defeat Shahbazyan.

 

One of the youngest athletes on the entire UFC roster, Shahbazyan, 22 (11-0, fighting out of Glendale, Calif.) has quickly developed into the middleweight division’s top prospect. Hailing from the same gym as former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey, Shahbazyan has shown incredible skills during his young MMA career by finishing all but one of his victories in the first round, including wins over Brad Tavares, Jack Marshman and Charles Byrd. He now takes a step up in competition and looks to prove that the hype around him is deserved with his most critical victory yet.

 

Additional bouts on the card include:

  • A critical bout in the women’s flyweight division sees No. 3 ranked contender Joanne Calderwood (14-4, fighting out of Glasgow, Scotland) step up on short notice to take on No. 6 ranked Jennifer Maia (17-6-1, fighting out of Curitiba, State of Paraná, Brazil)
  • In an exciting welterweight bout, No. 12 ranked contender Vicente Luque (19-7-1, fighting out of Brasilia, Brazil) looks to defend his spot in the rankings against rising prospect Randy Brown (12-3, fighting out of Queens, N.Y.)
  • In an thrilling lightweight rematch, Lando Vannata (11-4-2, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) and Bobby Green (25-10-1, fighting out of Fontana, Calif.) look to replicate their first Fight of the Night performance
  • Light heavyweight veterans meet when veteran Ed Herman (26-14 1 NC, fighting out of Portland, Ore.) meets Gerald Meerschaert (30-13, fighting out of Milaukee, Wisc.) on short notice
  • Kevin Holland (18-5, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas) and Trevin Giles (12-2, fighting out of Houston, Texas) look to build their win streaks in a clash at middleweight
  • Veteran bantamweight Frankie Saenz (13-6, fighting out of Scottsdale, Ariz.) aims to make a statement against Jonathan Martinez (11-3, fighting out of Plainview, Texas)
  • Perennial top contender Ray Borg (13-5, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) looks to spoil the debut of UFC newcomer Nate Maness (11-1, fighting out of Henderson, Ky.)
  • Middleweights Eric Spicely (12-6, fighting out of Olneyville, R.I.) and Markus Perez (11-3, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) battle to return to the win column
  • In a battle of featherweight prospects looking to earn their first UFC win, Jamall Emmers (13-5, fighting out of Mentone, Calif.) welcomes the debuting Timur Valiev (16-2, fighting out of Moscow, Russia)

 

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage.

 

###

 

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 318 million fans and 102 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 175 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 65 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

 

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment enterprise, features more than 50 assets – nine U.S. television networks, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN International, ESPN The Magazine and more.  ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

 

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown quickly to 7.9 million subscribers, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content.

 

Programming on ESPN+ includes exclusive UFC and Top Rank boxing events, thousands of college sports events (including football and basketball) from more than a dozen sports at 20 conferences, hundreds of MLB and NHL games, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, Bundesliga – beginning in 2020, EFL Championship and Carabao Cup, Eredivisie), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, exclusive ESPN+ Original series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films.

 

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) through the ESPN App, (on mobile and connected devices), ESPN.com or ESPNplus.com.  It is also available as part of a bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu (ad-supported), and ESPN+ — all for just $12.99/month

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Deiveson Figueiredo and Joseph Benavidez rematch for vacant UFC fly weight championship on UFC FIGHT ISLAND

(#1) DEIVESON FIGUEIREDO AND (#2) JOSEPH BENAVIDEZ REMATCH FOR VACANT UFC FLYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP ON UFC FIGHT ISLAND

FEATURED BOUTS:

(#6) vs. (#7) KELVIN GASTELUM

(#4) ALEXANDRE PANTOJA vs. (#7) ASKAR ASKAROV

 

UFC® continues its run of shows on UFC FIGHT ISLAND with a vacant flyweight championship bout that will see No. 1 ranked contender Deiveson Figueiredo rematch No. 2 Joseph Benavidez. In an exciting clash of middleweight contenders, No. 6 ranked Jack Hermansson takes on No. 7 Kelvin Gastelum. All events on UFC FIGHT ISLAND are the result of a partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

 

UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+®: FIGUEIREDO vs. BENAVIDEZ 2 will take place Saturday, July 18 at Flash Forum on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. The main card begins at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT in English and Spanish on ESPN+. The preliminary card will kick off at 5 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. PT on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ (English and Spanish). The event will be closed to the public and will be produced with only essential personnel in attendance.

 

Figueiredo (18-1, fighting out of Soure, Pará, Brazil) scored a controversial TKO win over Benavidez in February, but was deemed ineligible for the vacant championship due to missing weight. Arguably the hardest hitting flyweight on the roster, Figueiredo holds spectacular victories against Tim Elliott, Alexandre Pantoja and John Moraga. Figueiredo now looks to do right by his second title opportunity and prove his win over Benavidez was no fluke.

 

Considered by many to be among the greatest fighters to never win a UFC championship, Benavidez (28-6, fighting out of Las Cruces, N.M.) has a fresh opportunity to make his dream a reality. Over the course of his tremendous career, he has earned impressive victories against Jussier Formiga (twice), Henry Cejudo and Tim Elliott. Benavidez now hopes to even the score with Figueiredo and capture the UFC flyweight championship.

 

Known for his heavy ground-and-pound attack, Hermansson (20-5, fighting out of Oslo, Norway) has proven to be as tough and gritty as they come at middleweight. Victorious in four of his last five outings, he has netted exciting wins over Jacare Souza, David Branch and Thales Leites. Hermansson now aims to re-assert himself as a title threat by taking out another former UFC title challenger.

 

Winner of The Ultimate Fighter season 17, the resume of Gastelum (16-5 1NC, fighting out of Yuma, Ariz.) features the top names at middleweight and includes a classic five-round battle against champion Israel Adesanya. He also holds sensational wins over Michael Bisping, Jacare Souza and Tim Kennedy. Gastelum now hopes to continue his climb up the ranks by taking out Hermansson.

 

Additional bouts on the card include:

  • In an exciting lightweight bout, Marc Diakiese (14-3, fighting out of Doncaster, England) meets Rafael Fiziev (7-1, fighting out of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan by way of Phuket, Thailand)
  • Ariane Lipski (12-5, fighting out of Curitiba, State of Paraná, Brazil) aims to build off her most recent win when she takes on Luana Carolina (6-1, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil)
  • In a pivotal flyweight contenders’ bout, No. 4 ranked Alexandre Pantoja (22-4, fighting out of Arraial Do Cabo, Brazil) squares off with unbeaten No. 7 Askar Askarov (11-0-1, fighting out of Khasavyurt, Dagestan, Russia)
  • Undefeated Roman Dolidze (6-0, fighting out of Odessa, Ukraine) makes his UFC debut against Khadis Ibragimov (8-2, fighting out of Saint Petersburg, Russia)
  • Grant Dawson (15-1, fighting out of Lee’s Summit, Mo.) meets Nad Narimani (12-3, fighting out of Bristol, England) in a 150-pound catchweight bout
  • Joe Duffy (16-4, fighting out of Donegal, Ireland) returns to take on Joel Alvarez (16-2, fighting out of Asturias, Spain)
  • Brett Johns (16-2, fighting out of Swansea, Wales) goes for another highlight-reel finish when he takes on Montel Jackson (10-1, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.)
  • UFC flyweight newcomers collide when Malcolm Gordon (12-3, fighting out of London, Ont., Canada) squares off with Amir Albazi (12-1, fighting out of London, England)
  • Davi Ramos (10-3, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) meets Arman Tsarukyan (14-2, fighting out of Krasnodar, Russia, by way of Phuket, Thailand) in a battle of gritty lightweight grapplers
  • Heavyweights kick off the evening when Carlos Felipe (8-0, fighting out of Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil) squares off with Serghei Spivac (10-2, fighting out of Chisinau, Republic of Moldova)

 

UFC will then wrap up its first series of events on UFC FIGHT ISLAND with UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: WHITTAKER vs. TILL on Saturday, July 25.

 

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts live and subject to change.

 

A full line of UFC FIGHT ISLAND products, including t-shirts, hats, water bottles, tote bags, and more are available now on UFCStore.com

 

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 318 million fans and 102 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 175 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 65 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

 

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi:

The Department of Culture and Tourism conserves and promotes the heritage and culture of Abu Dhabi emirate and leverages them in the development of a world-class, sustainable destination of distinction that enriches the lives of visitors and residents alike. The Department manages the emirate’s tourism sector and markets the destination internationally through a wide range of activities aimed at attracting visitors and investment. Its policies, plans and programmes relate to the preservation of heritage and culture, including protecting archaeological and historical sites and to developing museums, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Zayed National Museum and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. The Department of Culture and Tourism supports intellectual and artistic activities and cultural events to nurture a rich cultural environment and honour the emirate’s heritage. A key role played by the Department is to create synergy in the destination’s development through close co-ordination with its wide-ranging stakeholder base.

 

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown quickly to 7.9 million subscribers, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content.

Programming on ESPN+ includes exclusive UFC and Top Rank boxing events, thousands of college sports events (including football and basketball) from more than a dozen sports at 20 conferences, hundreds of MLB and NHL games, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, Bundesliga – beginning in 2020, EFL Championship and Carabao Cup, Eredivisie), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, exclusive ESPN+ Original series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films.

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) through the ESPN App, (on mobile and connected devices), ESPN.com or ESPNplus.com.  It is also available as part of a bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu (ad-supported), and ESPN+ — all for just $12.99/month.

 

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment enterprise, features more than 50 assets – nine U.S. television networks, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN International, ESPN The Magazine and more.  ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

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UNLV MEN AND WOMEN EARN CSCAA TEAM SCHOLAR AWARDS

UNLV MEN AND WOMEN EARN CSCAA TEAM SCHOLAR AWARDS

Both the UNLV men’s and women’s swimming and diving programs were named to the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association (CSCAA) Scholar All-America team for the Spring 2020 Semester, the national organization announced Tuesday. UNLV was one of 461 institutions that were named to the list, and this marks the eighth time in the last nine semesters that the Rebel women’s program has earned Scholar recognition.

CSCAA Executive Director Greg Earhart noted: “No team was unaffected by this Spring’s pandemic but Athletic Director Reed-Francois and President Meana can and should be proud of their team and the work of Ben with the Rebels.”

The Spring Team Scholar All-America award is presented to college and university swimming and diving teams who have achieved a grade point average of 3.0 or higher in the semester/quarter coinciding with the NCAA Swimming and Diving Championships.

The CSCAA will announce its individual Scholar All-Americans next week.

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DUSTIN POIRIER NAMED INAUGURAL RECIPIENT OF FORREST GRIFFIN COMMUNITY AWARD PRESENTED BY TOYO TIRES

 

DUSTIN POIRIER NAMED INAUGURAL RECIPIENT OF FORREST GRIFFIN COMMUNITY AWARD PRESENTED BY TOYO TIRES

 

UFC® today announced that former interim UFC lightweight champion Dustin Poirier has been named the inaugural recipient of the Forrest Griffin Community Award, presented by Toyo Tires®. Named in honor of UFC Hall of Famer Forrest Griffin, the award will recognize a UFC athlete for their exceptional volunteer and charity work and the meaningful impact their efforts have on the community.

 

Announced earlier this year, the Forrest Griffin Community Award is presented annually as part of UFC Honors President’s Choice category, as the award recipient is personally selected by UFC President Dana White. UFC Honors, presented by Toyo Tires® is the company’s annual awards program recognizing UFC athletes, performances, and moments throughout each year.

 

As the inaugural recipient of the Forrest Griffin Community Award, Dustin will receive a $25,000 donation to the charity of his choice. All donations are courtesy of Toyo Tires. Dustin will be honored for this award later this year during the 2020 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by Toyo Tires®, which will be streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS®.

 

“Dustin is a great athlete, but more importantly he’s a great human being,” UFC President Dana White said. “He is a kid who works hard and is passionate about giving back to not only his community, but to those who are less fortunate.”

 

“We would like to congratulate Dustin on being selected as the first-ever Forrest Griffin Community Award recipient,” Toyo Tires Vice President of Marketing Tim Chaney said. We admire and commend Dustin for his efforts to support his local community and are pleased to donate $25,000 to the charity of his choice.”

 

In April 2018, Dustin and his wife, Jolie, established The Good Fight Foundation, with the mission of being committed to helping those in need and to fighting to change the world by doing positive things in the community.

Throughout the first two years of the foundation’s existence, the Poiriers have launched a series of initiatives for those in need throughout their hometown of Lafayette and neighboring Acadiana, Louisiana. These programs include annual Thanksgiving food drives, back to school campaigns, and fundraisers to help purchase necessity kits for hundreds of women experiencing homelessness, as well as furniture for local shelters.

Dustin has also utilized his fight-worn UFC Fight Kits, auctioning off his inventory of apparel to raise donations for families of fallen law enforcement officers, and building a local playground for Aaron Hill, a terminally ill seven-year old of Lafayette. Hill, diagnosed with a genetic brain disorder, requested to have a special needs playground built for his friends who attend Prairie Elementary School.

In May 2019, he was awarded with the key to the city of Lafayette by Mayor Joel Robideaux for his work with The Good Fight Foundation and his contributions to the community. Following his most recent fight in September 2019 against UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov in Abu Dhabi, Nurmagomedov and Poirier each raffled off their fight-worn UFC Legacy Series Walkout Jerseys, raising more than $100,000 with a direct match from UFC, totaling $200,000 donated directly to the foundation.

 

The funds generated from this global auction helped purchase hundreds of car seats, which were donated to the Women’s and Children’s Hospital of Lafayette. Later that year, Poirier and his foundation also partnered with former UFC heavyweight Justin Wren’s “Fight For The Forgotten” organization. As part of this joint partnership, Poirier and Wren were able to use the funds raised and the platform to combat the water crisis in Uganda. During the campaign, they exceeded their fundraising goal of purchasing new water wells, and also secured 43.21 acres of land and a solar powered water well to create a more self-sustainable living environment for the Batwa Pygmy Tribe.

 

This year, Dustin and his team have stayed active in the community with relief efforts associated with COVID-19 by donating more than 1,000 meals to frontline healthcare workers at local hospitals and clinics.  Currently ranked no. 3 in the lightweight division, Dustin is a veteran of 32 fights and has compiled a record of 25-6, 1 NC (18-6, 1 NC UFC) while competing in both the featherweight and lightweight divisions since his debut in 2009.

 

During his tenure inside the Octagon®, Dustin has become a notable fan favorite by defeating former UFC featherweight champion Max Holloway (2), former UFC lightweight champions Eddie Alvarez and Anthony Pettis, as well as winner of season 14 of The Ultimate Fighter® Diego Brandao and winner of season 12 of The Ultimate Fighter® Jonathan Brookins.

 

For more information regarding The Good Fight Foundation, please visit TheGoodFightGroup.com.

 

 

 

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The Raider Image Now Open at Miracle Mile Shops

 

THE RAIDER IMAGEthe ™ NOW OPEN AT MIRACLE MILE SHOPS™

 

The Raider Image, home for game day gear, is now open inside Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino.

 

Serving as the official team store of the Las Vegas Raiders, The Raider Image at Miracle Mile Shops provides football fans with a wide selection of authentic merchandise including jerseys, headwear, accessories and apparel for men, women, and children. All stores, as well as the online store, are owned and operated by the Raiders out of the team’s headquarters in Henderson, Nev.

 

Miracle Mile Shops is temporarily open from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., seven days a week. For information regarding Miracle Mile Shops health and safety protocol, as well as a full list of open stores and restaurants, visit miraclemileshopslv.com.

 

 

About THE RAIDER IMAGE

The Raider Image is the official team store of the Las Vegas Raiders. All stores are owned and operated by the Las Vegas Raiders. Later this fall, the Image will be operating 14 brick and mortar locations throughout California and Nevada along with the flag ship store at Allegiant Stadium. The Las Vegas area will have seven locations: Town Square Las Vegas, Galleria at Sunset Mall, Raiders Headquarters in Henderson, McCarran Airport, Fashion Show Mall, The Shoppes at Mandalay Place and Miracle Mile Shops. In addition, The Raider Image e-commerce store provides the best selection of merchandise for Raider fans around the world with over 3600+ products available online and in the mobile app. Find the online store through www.RAIDERS.com/shop.

 

About Miracle Mile Shops™:

Miracle Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino features more than a mile of 200 shops, tempting restaurants and live entertainment venues at the heart of the famed Las Vegas Strip. The center is home to M·A·C Cosmetics, a leading brand of professional cosmetics; Sephora; premier blow out salon, Drybar; H&M; GUESS; Flight 23 at Footaction, one of only three in the country; Tipsy Robot, the first land-based cocktail bar operated by robots; Buffalo Wild Wings; Chicago popcorn legend Garrett Popcorn Shops’ only Las Vegas location; Nacho Daddy, home of the world-famous Scorpion Shot; 15,000-square-foot bar and restaurant Cabo Wabo® Cantina; Club Tattoo, featuring some of the best tattoo artists and body piercers in the nation; as well as a multi-million dollar fountain show. Miracle Mile Shops is an affiliate of Institutional Mall Investors LLC, a co-investment venture owned by Miller Capital Advisory, Inc., and CalPERS.

 

For more information, call 702.866.0710 or visit www.miraclemileshopslv.com. Keep up with the latest Miracle Mile Shops news via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

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UNLV REBEL HOCKEY announces All-Access Season Passes for 2020-2021 season

 

UNLV REBEL HOCKEY announces All-Access Season Passes for 2020-2021 season

All-Access Season Passes to include limited-edition team merchandise, team lanyard, guaranteed seating and more.

Early-bird pricing to start at $7 per game, with passes available beginning Monday, June 22, 2020 at 9 a.m.

The Skatin’ Rebels are back and ready to drop the puck for their highly-anticipated 2020-2021 season. Building off the success of their 2019 campaign, UNLV REBEL HOCKEY will once again hit the ice at City National Arena in Downtown Summerlin in Las Vegas for 18 home games, beginning Friday, Oct. 9, 2020.

Early-bird pricing for All-Access Season Passes will begin at $7 per game and go on sale Monday, June 22, 2020 at 9 a.m..  All-Access Season Passes will include a team lanyard with a pass for 18 home games, a limited edition Rebel Hockey hat, guaranteed seating, a pocket schedule, drink koozie and access to special events throughout the season.

UNLV REBEL HOCKEY will be joining the Western College Hockey League (WCHL) for the 2020-2021 season, with the opportunity to play for a conference championship and compete for an automatic bid to the ACHA D-1 National Championship Tournament for the first time in program history. UNLV’s non-conference schedule includes road games at nationally-ranked Liberty University (Sept. 24-25), the Chicago Classic (Nov. 21 – 22), Illinois (Jan. 8-9), Minot State (Feb. 12-13) and Indiana University of Pennsylvania (Feb. 19 – 20). The Rebels’ WCHL conference schedule will begin Oct. 2, with the home opener scheduled for Oct. 9-10.

All 2020-2021 games will be played inside City National Arena at 1550 S Pavilion Center Dr. in Downtown Summerlin in Las Vegas. All-Access Season Passes are available for $7 per game, beginning Monday, June 22, 2020 at 9 a.m. Passes are available for purchase online at RebelHockey.com. Full refunds will be provided if fans are not permitted to attend live sporting events, due to COVID-19.

For more information and a full schedule for UNLV REBEL HOCKEY, please visit RebelHockey.com. For sponsorship opportunities, including the 5th Annual Rebel Classic Golf Tournament at Bear’s Best on Thursday, Aug. 27, please contact Nick Robone at nrobone@rebelhockey.com.

Keep up with UNLV REBEL HOCKEY on Facebook and Twitter. #BEaREBEL

ABOUT UNLV REBEL HOCKEY
Founded in 2005, UNLV REBEL HOCKEY is part of the American Collegiate Hockey Association – Men’s Division 1 and member of the Western College Hockey League (WCHL). Helmed by Head Coach Anthony V. Greener and Assistant Coach Nick Robone, UNLV REBEL HOCKEY’s roster features student athletes from around the world, who must meet all ACHA requirements and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. The team is a self-funded, non-profit hockey organization that operates through player dues and continual fundraising programs. Ticket sales and joint promotional ventures with local organizations also significantly contribute to the operating costs of the organization.

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UNLV MEN’S GOLFERS J.J. GRESCO, DAVID RAUCH AND JACK TRENT NAMED ALL-AMERICA SCHOLARS

UNLV MEN’S GOLFERS J.J. GRESCO, DAVID RAUCH AND JACK TRENT NAMED ALL-AMERICA SCHOLARS


The Golf Coaches Association of America announced its first wave of Srixon/Cleveland Golf All-America Scholars on Wednesday

Srixon/Cleveland Golf All-America Scholar Release  |  @UNLVGolf

UNLV men’s golfers J.J. Gresco, David Rauch and Jack Trent have been named Srixon/Cleveland Golf All-America Scholars, as the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA) announced the first wave of recipients for the award on Wednesday. A second announcement that will include the second wave of nominations as well as those schools on the quarter system will be announced in July.

 

This marks the fourth straight year that UNLV has had at least two All-America Scholar honorees. All three of UNLV’s representatives this year are first-time recipients.

 

Trent, a rising senior, was named to the All-Mountain West Team and earned honorable mention All-America honors in April. Gresco is also a rising senior, while Rauch is a rising junior.

 

It was a record-setting year for the All-America Scholar award as 614 student-athletes were recognized, the most since the award’s inception in 1982. A total of 376 players are from NCAA Division I schools.

 

To be eligible, an individual must be a sophomore, junior or senior academically in Division I, II, III, and NAIA, or receiving their Associate’s Degree and in their last year of athletic eligibility in the NJCAA. This is also the first year that sophomores could be included. In addition, they must have a stroke-average under 76.0 (for Division I) and maintain a minimum cumulative career grade-point average of 3.2. They also must have participated in at least 40 percent of the team’s competitive rounds this season.

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Topgolf Las Vegas Reopens Tomorrow and Launches Summer Fun Pass

Architectural Photography by Michael Baxter, Baxter Imaging LLC

Topgolf Las Vegas Set to Reopen Tomorrow

With new safety procedures in place, guests can tee up for a weekend of fun, just in time for Father’s Day

WHO: Topgolf Las Vegas

WHAT: Topgolf Las Vegas will reopen its doors on Thursday at 10 a.m. Information you need to know before guests hit the greens!

  • Bay Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made free of charge at www.topgolf.com/lasvegas, however walk-ins are also welcome.
  • On Sunday, June 21, Topgolf Las Vegas will open at 9 a.m. to accommodate Father’s Day players.*
  • Locals can take advantage of the Summer Fun Pass – for just $159, the pass provides unlimited game play on weekdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. for up to six players. Additional Pass Perks will also be sent via email. The pass is valid through Sept. 30.
  • Bar areas throughout Topgolf are also open for Dining with social distancing in place, or grab a bite to eat at your bay.
  • Local discount on bay time is 25% off (not valid towards Summer Fun Pass).
    •  Safety Elements:
      • Social Distancing: New social distancing guidelines have been put in place throughout the venue, emphasizing the six-feet-apart guidance recommended by health authorities.
      • Outdoor Hitting Bays: The entire area will be disinfected after every group, including golf clubs, golf balls and game screens. With 11 feet from tee to tee, Topgolf has also installed dividers between bays for added comfort and safety.
      • Associates Health & Safety: In addition to health checks and staggered check-in times to promote social distancing, associates will always be required to wear masks during their shifts and gloves when handling food and drinks.

    WHEN:
    Thursday, June 18, 2020
    Topgolf Las Vegas will be open daily at 10 a.m.
    *Special hours on Sunday, June 21 for Father’s Day, opening at 9 a.m.

    WHERE:
    Topgolf Las Vegas
    4627 Koval Lane
    Las Vegas, Nev. 89109

    About Topgolf Las Vegas
    Topgolf Las Vegas operates daily at 10 a.m. Bay pricing starts at $33 per hour for up to six players and varies depending on bay location and time of day. Nevada locals receive a 25 percent discount on bay time. General admittance into Topgolf is free of charge. For VIP reservations, please contact lasvegasevents@topgolf.com. For more information, visit www.topgolf.com/lasvegas or call (702) 933-8458. Follow Topgolf Las Vegas on social media at facebook.com/topgolflasvegas or @Topgolf.

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UNLV’ SUMMER REBEL CARAVAN READY TO ROLL OUT — VIRTUALLY

UNLV’ SUMMER REBEL CARAVAN READY TO ROLL OUT — VIRTUALLY

Unique community-minded initiative features 12 events in 10 days

UNLVTickets  |  Schedule of Events/Registration Links  |  @UNLVAthletics

 

Featuring 12 events in 10 days, UNLV Athletics’ Rebel Caravan is back this summer but will take place virtually.

 

Slated to run June 9-18, the Rebel Caravan will be highlighted by the participation of three new leaders of UNLV programs — first-year football head coach Marcus Arroyo, women’s soccer head coach Jenny Ruiz-Williams and women’s basketball coach Lindy La Rocque. The community engagement blitz will help introduce Southern Nevada to the trio as they head into their first season, while also featuring other fall Rebel programs leading into the 2020 season.

Last summer’s Rebel Caravan, sparked by the hiring of Runnin’ Rebel head coach T.J. Otzelberger, featured 33 events in three weeks. Megan Caligiuri, UNLV senior associate athletics director for external operations, said that during these unprecedented times it was even more important to do a caravan sequel, even if it’s on a virtual basis.

“Our coaches are not only experts at their craft but they are also great community leaders,” said Caligiuri. “Their energy and passion for UNLV and Las Vegas is magnetic and while we can’t do it face-to-face quite yet, we still want our fans to have the opportunity to connect with our Rebel leaders and athletics programs as we gear up for fall competition.”

The Rebel Caravan kicks off June 9 at 3 p.m. PT with the program #WEnotME: It Takes a Team. Open to all fans, this Zoom webinar will feature Arroyo and select football student-athletes in what promises to be a lively discussion led by Fox5 sports director Kevin Bolinger.

Arroyo, who took over UNLV after helping lead Oregon to the 2019 Pac-12 Conference Championship and Rose Bowl title as offensive coordinator, will also hold other online meetings with various audiences. He and La Rocque, a Las Vegas native and Durango High School graduate who was hired to take over the Lady Rebels in March, will also hold a session exclusive to UNLV alumni.

Arroyo, Ruiz-Williams, men’s golf volunteer assistant coach A.J. McInerney and Director of Athletics Desiree Reed-Francois will team up for a discussion with the UNLV Letterwinners group in an event hosted by former Rebel quarterback and longtime ESPN personality Kenny Mayne.

In addition, UNLV faculty and staff will be invited to a discussion with Otzelberger, Arroyo, La Rocque and Ruiz-Williams that will be hosted by local radio personality Chet Buchanan from 98.5 KLUC.

The caravan will also include online events with volleyball head coach Dawn Sullivan, men’s soccer head coach Rich Ryerson and new football coordinators Glenn Thomas and Peter Hansen as well as head strength and conditioning coach Matt Fyle.

For the Rebel Caravan’s full schedule of events and registration links, visit: UNLVRebels.com/caravan.

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Rebel Football To Play ASU As Part Of Six-Game Schedule At Allegiant Stadium In 2020

UNLV FOOTBALL TO PLAY ASU AS PART OF SIX-GAME SCHEDULE AT ALLEGIANT STADIUM IN 2020

Also, Colorado State game date has been shifted to Friday, Oct. 23

UNLVtickets  |  @UNLVAthletics  | @UNLVFootball

 

LAS VEGAS (UNLVRebels.com) – When the UNLV football team plays Arizona State in Las Vegas for the first time ever on Sept. 12, it will be inside its new home at the $2 billion Allegiant Stadium currently under construction near campus, UNLV Director of Athletics Desiree Reed-Francois announced.

The Rebels will play six of their seven total home games in 2020 at Allegiant, starting with the season-opener against California on Aug. 29 that will be the first-ever meeting between the Rebels and Golden Bears. The following week’s game against Louisiana Tech on Sept. 5 will take place at Sam Boyd Stadium.

All four of UNLV’s Mountain West games, along with all future home games, will take place at Allegiant.

“We are extremely appreciative of the Raiders organization for working with us on hosting the Arizona State game at Allegiant Stadium,” said Reed-Francois. “Our community is energized behind new head coach Marcus Arroyo and his team as they move into one of the greatest sports facilities in the world and getting to host two Pac-12 Conference opponents there this fall will make it an even better experience for our fans and student-athletes.”

Also, the Rebels’ game against Colorado State, originally scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 24 has been shifted to Friday, Oct. 23.

CLICK HERE to visit the UNLV Football at Allegiant Stadium landing page for more information. Season ticket deposits are available for just $1 and can be placed by visiting unlvtickets.com. Season tickets start at $125 with interest-free, four-month payment plans available.

As part of the Faithful Fan program, all UNLV returning season ticket holders will receive the single game at Sam Boyd Stadium in their ticket package free of charge.

Arroyo, who signed a record-setting recruiting class in February, heads into his first season with the Rebels after helping Oregon win the 2019 Pac-12 Conference championship and 2020 Rose Bowl as offensive coordinator for the Ducks.

-UNLV-

2020 UNLV FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
Aug. 29    CAL
Sept. 5     LOUISIANA TECH (at SBS)
Sept. 12   ARIZONA STATE
Sept. 19    at Iowa State
Oct. 3        at San Diego State *
Oct. 10     WYOMING *
Oct. 17      at San Jose State
Oct. 23     COLORADO STATE *
Oct. 31     at Boise State *
Nov. 7      FRESNO STATE *
Nov. 14     at Hawai’i *
Nov. 28     UNR *

Home games in BOLD CAPS at Allegiant Stadium unless noted
* Mountain West Game

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UNLV ATHLETICS NEWS: Guaranteed Giveaway Program Continues For 2020 UNLV Football

GUARANTEED GIVEAWAY PROGRAM CONTINUES FOR 2020 UNLV FOOTBALL

 

Season ticket holder package upgrade includes three T-shirts, hat, face mask, bandana and replica of Allegiant Stadium

UNLVtickets  |  @UNLVAthletics  | @UNLVFootball

UNLV Athletics has announced a continuation of its popular Guaranteed Giveaway program for Rebel football’s inaugural season at Allegiant Stadium this fall.

Geared towards increasing the value of being a UNLV football season ticket holder, the package upgrade is offered exclusively to 2020 football season ticket holders and includes three T-shirts, a hat, a face mask, a seamless bandana, and a replica of Allegiant Stadium, all for just $45. Season ticket holders who purchase the Guaranteed Giveaway upgrade will be able to to select the size of their T-shirts.

2020 UNLV Football Guaranteed Giveaway Details:

  • Rebel ‘stache face mask
  • Inaugural Season Hat – Home Opener
  • Vamos Rebels black T-shirt – Hispanic Heritage & Black Out Game
  • Pink seamless bandana – Breast Cancer Awareness Game
  • Allegiant Stadium Replica – Rebel Homecoming
  • UNLV flag T-Shirt – Military Appreciation Game
  • Our State. Our Cannon. T-shirt – Rivalry Red Effect Game

“Rebel football season ticket holders appreciated the opportunity to add on last season’s full suite of giveaways, and we are thrilled to be able to offer it once again for the inaugural season at a Allegiant Stadium,” said Megan Caligiuri, Senior Associate Athletics Director for External Operations. “This benefit continues to allow our most loyal fans the exclusive opportunity to lock in limited edition Rebel items.”

Season ticket holders who do not wish to purchase the Guaranteed Giveaway upgrade will still have the chance to win one of the 500-1,000 giveaway items of the game, along with members of the general public during each Rebel football home game. Fans will be asked to text to win, and winners will be notified during the game with pick-up available after the game has concluded. Quantities and sizes for each item will vary from game to game.

The deadline for UNLV football season ticket holders to purchase the Guaranteed Giveaway add-on feature is July 29, 2020. To purchase, log in to your UNLVTickets account here, or call 702-895-5545.

UNLV opens its seven-game home schedule August 29 vs. Cal at the new $2 billion state-of-the-art Allegiant Stadium. Season ticket deposits are available for just $1 and can be placed by visiting unlvtickets.com. Interest-free five-month payment plans are also available.

 

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UNLV ATHLETICS NEWS: Rebels See Historic Jump In APR Numbers

UNLV ATHLETICS SEES HISTORIC JUMP IN APR NUMBERS

 

Department earns highest single- and multi-year scores ever, a record 10 teams earn perfect single-year scores and five teams set or tie multi-year program marks

@UNLVAthletics

 

UNLV Athletics reported historic progress in the classroom, setting multiple NCAA Academic Progress Rate (APR) records as the national organization released its most recent data for the 2018-19 academic year Tuesday.

 

UNLV Athletics’ collective single- and multi-year scores of 990 and 979, respectively, are both record-highs. The single-year score of 990 qualifies UNLV for the academic-based revenue distribution that is available from the NCAA for the first time, allowing schools with higher graduation rates and academic success to qualify for more funds.

 

Additionally, a UNLV-record 10 teams earned a single-year perfect score of 1,000, eclipsing the previous mark of eight teams, which happened twice. The 10 programs with perfect 1,000s are baseball, women’s basketball, cross country, men’s golf, women’s golf, softball, men’s tennis, women’s tennis, track and field and volleyball.

 

Also, baseball (978), football (964), men’s soccer (965), women’s tennis (1,000) and volleyball (1,000) all set or tied program records for multi-year scores.

 

“We are extremely proud of our student-athletes’ record-breaking APR performances,” said UNLV Director of Athletics Desiree Reed-Francois. “Thank you to Ann McDonough, Dean of the Academic Success Center, to our Student-Athlete Academic Services Department, and to all of our coaches and staff, for their continued commitment to the success of our student-athletes. These APR milestones and our record streak of 3.0 grade point averages are shining examples of how we continue to achieve academically.”

 

Women’s tennis and volleyball were both recognized last week with the NCAA’s Public Recognition Award by earning a multi-year APR of 1,000, putting each team in the top-10 percent of all squads in their respective sport. It marked volleyball’s third straight award and fourth overall, and it is the fourth overall for women’s tennis. To achieve a perfect multi-year score of 1,000, a program must be perfect in four consecutive years.

 

For the 12th consecutive year, all 17 of UNLV’s NCAA Division I sports programs possess a multi-year APR score that exceeds the NCAA minimum cut score of at least 930 to avoid penalties, with all Rebel teams posting a multi-year score this year of at least 952.

 

The APR provides a real-time look at a team’s academic success each semester by tracking the academic progress of each student-athlete. The APR includes eligibility, retention and graduation in the calculation and its goal is to provide a clear picture of the academic culture in each sport. A score of 1,000 means that the institution has met the goals of retention and satisfactory degree progress for 100 percent of each of its student-athletes in a given time period. A score of 900 equates to 90 percent, 800 equals 80 percent, and so forth. The NCAA implemented the APR in 2003.

 

The most recent APRs are multiyear rates based on scores from the 2015-16, 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19 academic years.

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UNLV MEN’S BASKETBALL’S 2020-21 NON-CONFERENCE SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED

UNLV MEN’S BASKETBALL’S 2020-21 NON-CONFERENCE SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED

 

Runnin’ Rebels’ slate includes home games against UCLA and California, a trip to Hawaii for the Maui Invitational and road games at Kansas State, VCU and SMU

 

Purchase Season Tickets  |  2020-21 Non-Conference Schedule  |  UNLV Men’s Basketball News  |  @UNLVAthletics  |  @TheRunninRebels

 

UNLV Athletics announced the non-conference portion of its 2020-21 men’s basketball schedule Wednesday.

Highlighted by home games against Pac-12 Conference members UCLA and California, a trip to Hawaii for the Maui Invitational and road contests at Kansas State, VCU and SMU, the Runnin’ Rebels can play up to six teams collectively from the Atlantic Coast Conference, Big Ten Conference, Big 12 Conference, Pac-12 and Southeastern Conference.

The strongest non-conference schedule for the Runnin’ Rebels in five years (based on 2019-20 final NET Rankings), the upcoming slate is also an improvement over last year’s according to KPI, BPI, POM and SAG statistical rankings. UNLV will have an opportunity to play up to six Quadrant 1 or 2 games (also based on 2019-20 final NET Rankings). The last two seasons, UNLV played in just three games each vs. Quad 1 or 2 opponents.

“Our schedule will be challenging with high-level games at home, on the road and on a neutral court in Maui,” said UNLV head coach T.J. Otzelberger, who last season led the Runnin’ Rebels to their most Mountain West wins and highest league finish in 12 years by tying for second in his first year at the helm of the program. “Those are opportunities we will embrace as we continue to move our program forward.”

The Runnin’ Rebels’ 2020-21 season will begin with five straight games at the Thomas & Mack Center starting with an exhibition contest against Chaminade on Friday, November 6.

The regular-season opener will take place Tuesday, November 10 against Montana State followed by a visit from Cal on Saturday, November 14. It will mark the fifth time Cal has played at UNLV as the Runnin’ Rebels own a 3-1 all-time mark against the Golden Bears at home. UNLV will look to avenge its overtime loss last season in Berkeley, California.

The Runnin’ Rebels will host their most anticipated home game of the non-conference season on Tuesday, November 17 vs. UCLA. The Bruins finished second in the Pac-12 last season, just one game back of league champion Oregon. It will mark UCLA’s third visit to the Thomas & Mack Center and first since 1997. The Rebels played the Bruins in Westwood last November.

The season-opening homestand will conclude with a game against Benedictine Mesa on Friday, November 20 before heading to Hawaii.

The Maui Jim Maui Invitational will be up next, scheduled to be played Monday-Wednesday, November 23-25. One of the sport’s most prestigious events, this year’s field includes North Carolina from the ACC, Indiana from the Big Ten, Texas from the Big 12, Stanford from the Pac-12, Providence from the Big East Conference and Davidson from the Atlantic 10 Conference. Each of UNLV’s possible opponents in the event were ranked in the top 80 in last season’s final NET ranking.

UNLV’s appearance in the Maui Invitational will mark its first since 2015. The 2020 tournament field boasts a combined 214 NCAA Tournament appearances, 39 Final Four berths and 13 national championships.

The Runnin’ Rebels will return home to host Whittier College on Saturday, November 28, then head back on the road to take on VCU as part of the inaugural Mountain West-Atlantic 10 Challenge Series. It will mark the first meeting between the two programs.

UNLV will continue its road trip with a game at Kansas State on Saturday, December 5. It will mark just the Runnin’ Rebels’ second time playing at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan. UNLV hosted K-State last November, falling in overtime.

The Runnin’ Rebels then return home for their final homestand of the non-conference season vs. Florida A&M on Wednesday, December 16 and Omaha on Saturday, December 19.

The non-conference slate will conclude with a road game at SMU on Tuesday, December 22. It will mark UNLV’s first time playing at Moody Coliseum in Dallas since the two schools were both members of the Western Athletic Conference in 1999.

The Mountain West schedule will be announced at a later date. All game times and television appearances will be shared upon confirmation.

Click here for the 2020-21 schedule on UNLVRebels.com

TICKETS: Runnin’ Rebel season tickets are on sale now and start as low as $119. Interest-free payment plans are available. To purchase, visit UNLVtickets.com or call 702-895-2958.

UNLV Men’s Basketball’s 2020-21 Non-Conference Schedule
Fri., Nov. 6  |  Chaminade (exhibition)  |  Thomas & Mack Center
Tues., Nov. 10  |  Montana State  |  Thomas & Mack Center
Sat., Nov. 14  |  California  |  Thomas & Mack Center
Tues., Nov. 17  |  UCLA  |  Thomas & Mack Center
Fri., Nov. 20  |  Benedictine Mesa  |  Thomas & Mack Center
Mon., Nov. 23  |  at Maui Invitational #  |  Lahaina, Hawaii
Tues., Nov. 24  |  at Maui Invitational #  |  Lahaina, Hawaii
Wed., Nov. 25  |  at Maui Invitational #  |  Lahaina, Hawaii
Sat., Nov. 28  |  Whittier College  |  Thomas & Mack Center
Wed., Dec. 2  |  at VCU ^  |  Richmond, Virginia
Sat., Dec. 5  |  at Kansas State  |  Manhattan, Kansas
Wed., Dec. 16  |  Florida A&M  |  Thomas & Mack Center
Sat., Dec. 19  |  Omaha  |  Thomas & Mack Center
Tues., Dec. 22  |  at SMU  |  Dallas, Texas

# = Field includes North Carolina, Indiana, Texas, Alabama, Stanford, Providence, Davidson and UNLV
^ = Mountain West-Atlantic 10 Challenge Series

 

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Relive Runnin’ Rebel History Friday At 3 PM (2011 win vs. No. 1 North Carolina)

RELIVE RUNNIN’ REBEL HISTORY FRIDAY AT 3 PM

 

Mike Moser, Justin Hawkins and Curtis Terry will watch UNLV men’s basketball’s 2011 upset of No. 1 North Carolina, while providing commentary and answering fan questions on YouTube

UNLVtickets.com  | @UNLVAthletics  |  @TheRunninRebels  |  Runnin’ Rebels YouTube Channel

 

As the new Rebels Relive History series continues, UNLV fans can enjoy one of the biggest upsets in men’s basketball program history this Friday, May 1, at 3 p.m. PT on the Runnin’ Rebels’ YouTube channel.

 

Former UNLV men’s basketball student-athletes Mike Moser and Justin Hawkins, will be joined by former Runnin’ Rebel and current radio analyst Curtis Terry, as the trio takes part in the live program. Watching an edited version (just over 30 minutes long) of UNLV’s 2011 win over No. 1 North Carolina at Orleans Arena in the Las Vegas Invitational, they will provide comments, share their memories and take questions from fans.

 

Hawkins is currently on the men’s basketball staff at Pacific, while Moser recently retired from playing professionally and is now a player development coach with the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks. Terry just launched a new podcast called UnCommenTerry, with episodes set to begin in May.

 

Fans who would like to ask questions in advance of the YouTube broadcast, can do so at @TheRunninRebels on Twitter or @runninrebels on Instagram.

 

The 90-80 win over the nation’s top-ranked team marked the first for any Mountain West squad. Moser had a double-double vs. the Tar Heels finishing with 16 points, a game-high 18 rebounds and six assists, then was recognized as ESPN.com’s National Player of the Week.

 

Previous Rebels Relive History broadcasts may be accessed here:

To purchase tickets for the 2020 football season or 2020-21 men’s basketball season, visit UNLVtickets.com.

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ROMAN OWEN, MIA BELL AND NNEKA ENEMKPALI HIRED AS UNLV WOMEN’S BASKETBALL ASSISTANT COACHES

ROMAN OWEN, MIA BELL AND NNEKA ENEMKPALI HIRED AS UNLV WOMEN’S BASKETBALL ASSISTANT COACHES

@UNLVLadyRebels

 UNLV women’s basketball head coach Lindy La Rocque announced the hiring of her coaching staff Tuesday. Roman Owen, Mia Bell and Nneka Enemkpali will all be assistant coaches for the Lady Rebels.

All three positions were approved before the state’s hiring freeze was instituted.

“I am so excited to have Roman, his wife Natalie and their two little girls join our Lady Rebel family!” said La Rocque. “Roman brings a wealth of coaching knowledge and experience to our program, but his true strengths lie in his moral character, integrity, and personal drive to impact the lives of young people. Our program is going to immediately benefit from Roman’s compassion and basketball savvy.

“I am also thrilled to keep Mia Bell in the Lady Rebel program. As an alum, Mia’s pride for UNLV and passion for basketball is unmatched. Her work ethic and enthusiasm for growth will push our program forward. Mia’s familiarity with UNLV makes for a seamless transition, she will continue to impact our young ladies in a positive light and help them develop on and off the court.

“I am so excited about the impact that Nneka Enemkpali will have on our Lady Rebel program. Nneka is a young rising star in coaching. She is extremely motivated and energetic about continuing to learn and grow, and will be a fantastic mentor for our team.”

Owen has coached at the collegiate level since 2008, and in the women’s game since 2010 when he began a three-year stint as head coach for Mid-American Christian University. He led the Evangels to a NCCAA Regional Championship and a consolation championship in the NCCAA National Tournament. His next stop was at Oklahoma, where he served as video coordinator under Hall of Fame coach Sherri Coale from 2013-15, while La Rocque was also a member of the staff during that period as a graduate assistant coach.

Owen has spent the past five seasons as an assistant coach at Yale (2015-18), Tulsa (2018-19) and most recently North Texas (2019-20). While at Yale, Owens was on a staff that guided the Bulldogs to the 2018 WBI Championship. At his most recent stop with the Mean Green, he handled all recruiting activities, set offensive game plans, had academic oversight of the team and also was in charge of the team’s scouting and technological needs. He also assisted with practice and overall game plans, workouts, and scouting reports in addition to coaching the point guard and wing position groups.

 

Owen’s first coaching experience came as an assistant coach for the men’s basketball team at Oklahoma City University from 2008-10. The Stars won 32 games during his two years and made a 2010 NAIA National Tournament appearance.

A four-year letterwinner at Southwestern Christian University, he was named the 2008 Pete Maravich NCCAA Player of the Year and was a three-time NCCAA All-American, leading the team to back-to-back NCCAA National Championship games on the way to setting a program record with 2,802 career points. He earned his bachelor’s degree in biblical studies from Southwestern Christian in 2007 and his master’s degree in education from the University Central Oklahoma in 2009.

“I want to express my appreciation and gratitude to Coach La Rocque for bringing me on her staff,” said Owen. “It is a wonderful and exciting opportunity for many reasons but chief among them is that I have been convinced for some time now that she is going to be a great head coach. It is evident all through her playing career to the last seven years of coaching that she is committed to excellence on and off the floor and helping student-athletes become the best versions of themselves. My family and I are fortunate for such an opportunity to work with Coach La Rocque and be at a basketball name like UNLV.”

Bell will begin her 12th year with the Lady Rebel program in the fall, as she first joined the Scarlet & Gray as a player for the 2009-10 season. She is a graduate of Las Vegas’ Durango High School and was a teammate of La Rocque’s. Bell is the first Las Vegas native to both play for the Lady  Rebels and then serve on their coaching staff. During her first six years on the bench, the Lady Rebels reached the postseason twice (WNIT in both 2016-17 and 2017-18) and won the school’s first conference championship in 24 years as they claimed the 2017-18 Mountain West regular-season championship with a school-record 14-4 mark in MW play. She oversaw player development, seeing much success with the guards as three players (Dakota Gonzalez, Brooke Johnson (twice), Nikki Wheatley (twice)) earned All-MW honors over the past four seasons. 

Bell still ranks in the top 10 all-time at UNLV in numerous statistical categories, including third all-time in total assists (434) and three-point percentage (36.2%). She earned third team All-Mountain West honors after leading the Lady Rebels to a 22-10 mark that included a second-place finish in the league and a trip to the 2012 Postseason WNIT. Bell earned her bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies in December of 2013.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to be a part of Coach La Rocque’s staff,” said Bell. “I’ve had the privilege of knowing Lindy for well over a decade. She brings a wealth of knowledge and tons of success with her and I’m excited to assist her in building something special here at UNLV.”

Enemkpali comes to Las Vegas from UC Santa Barbara, where she spent two years as an assistant coach for the Gauchos. Her duties at UCSB included skill development of the post players, and she helped develop Ila Lane into the nation’s No. 1 rebounder and Big West Freshman of the Year in 2019-20. She was named one of the 50 Impactful Assistants in Division I Women’s Basketball by Silver Waves Media following the season with the Gauchos before joining the UNLV staff.

“I am excited to be joining the Lady Rebel family!” said Ememkpali. “Coach La Rocque’s pedigree speaks for itself, she understands what it takes to excel and win at the highest level. I am excited for the opportunity to work alongside her and witness the growth of this program!” 

Enemkpali’s first collegiate job was at Gonzaga University, where she spent two seasons as video coordinator as the Bulldogs posted a 53-13 overall record and won two West Coast Conference titles, making two NCAA appearances (2016-18).

She had a stellar playing career at the University of Texas where she was a three-time All-Big 12 selection. She averaged 10.0 points and 8.0 rebounds over her four years, and finished ranked 10th all-time in Longhorns history in total rebounds (899) and 30th in points (1,116). In addition to being an Academic All-Big 12 selection three times, she was also recognized as a Senior CLASS Award Second Team All-American for excellence in the community, classroom, character and competition.

Following her career at Texas, she was drafted in the third round (26th overall) of the 2015 WNBA Draft by the Seattle Storm, but missed the season due to a knee injury suffered during her senior year. She earned her degree from Texas in African American and African Diaspora Studies and was named to the Commissioner’s Honor Roll multiple times.