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NBA Game Preview: Toronto Raptors (22-15) vs. Charlotte Hornets (13-23)

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NBA Game Preview: Toronto Raptors (22-15) vs. Charlotte Hornets (13-23)

The Toronto Raptors head south to face the Charlotte Hornets in an Eastern Conference matchup that pits a surging playoff contender against a rebuilding squad looking to build momentum at home. With Toronto riding a hot streak and Charlotte coming off an impressive upset, this game could offer value for bettors and fans alike. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of all key aspects.

Venue Location

The game will be played at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. This 19,077-seat arena has been the Hornets’ home since 2005 and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, especially when Charlotte pulls off upsets against stronger teams.

Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET. The game will be broadcast nationally on regional sports networks, with streaming options available via NBA League Pass.

These records reflect Toronto’s solid positioning for a playoff spot, while Charlotte continues to struggle in the standings but has shown flashes of competitiveness.

Recent Team Forms

Both teams enter with positive momentum from their most recent outings, but Toronto has been more consistent overall.

Toronto Raptors: The Raptors are 6-4 in their last 10 games and have won 4 of their last 5, including a convincing 118-100 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Monday. This marks their second win over Atlanta in a three-day span, showcasing improved shooting and defense. Offensively, they’ve averaged 114.5 points per game (23rd in the league) with a net rating of +2.2. Their recent surge includes strong third-quarter performances (30.8 PPG, 5th in NBA).

Charlotte Hornets: The Hornets are 5-5 in their last 10 games and 6-5 over their last 11, capped by a stunning 124-97 road upset over the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder (30-7) on Monday. This win closed a three-game road trip with back-to-back victories, highlighted by 51.1% three-point shooting (19-for-37). Charlotte has averaged 116.1 points per game (18th in NBA) but ranks poorly defensively (117.9 points allowed, 24th).

TeamLast 10 GamesLast Game ResultKey Stat from Recent Form
Toronto Raptors6-4W 118-100 vs. ATL4-1 SU in last 5; UNDER in 9 of last 12
Charlotte Hornets5-5W 124-97 @ OKC7-1 ATS in last 8; 6-5 in last 11

Injury Report

Injuries could play a significant role, particularly in the frontcourt for both teams.

Toronto Raptors:

Jakob Poeltl (C): Day-to-day (low back strain) – A key rim protector; his absence could hurt Toronto’s rebounding (43.4 RPG, 20th in NBA).

Charlotte Hornets:

Mason Plumlee (C): Day-to-day (right groin strain) – Backup big man; limited impact but adds depth.

Grant Williams (PF): Day-to-day (torn ACL) – Likely out longer-term despite day-to-day label; major loss for spacing and defense.

Tidjane Salaun (PF): Day-to-day (left ankle sprain) – Rookie contributor; affects bench versatility.

Ryan Kalkbrenner (C): Day-to-day (left elbow sprain) – Impacts interior defense and rebounding (Hornets allow 40.4 RPG, 3rd-best).

No other major injuries reported, but monitor updates close to tip-off as day-to-day statuses could shift.

Player Matchups

This game features intriguing battles, especially in scoring and perimeter defense.

Brandon Ingram (TOR) vs. Brandon Miller (CHA): Ingram leads Toronto with 22.2 PPG and has been hot from deep (9-of-14 on threes in last three games). However, he struggled in Charlotte last month (7 points on 3-of-13 shooting). Miller (CHA’s rising star) countered with 28 points and 7-of-10 threes in their last win, making this a key wing matchup.

Scottie Barnes (TOR) vs. Miles Bridges (CHA): Barnes dominates for Toronto with 8.6 RPG, facing Bridges (20.1 PPG team lead), who exploded for 35 points in their November OT win. Bridges’ athleticism could test Toronto’s defense (112.3 defensive rating, 5th in NBA).

Immanuel Quickley (TOR) vs. LaMelo Ball (CHA): Quickley (6.2 APG) runs Toronto’s offense (29.4 APG, 4th in league) against Ball (7.9 APG), who hit four threes in the Thunder upset. Ball’s playmaking could exploit Toronto’s turnover forcing (15.0 per game, 7th).

Collin Murray-Boyles (TOR) vs. Moussa Diabaté (CHA): Murray-Boyles (17 points on 8-of-10 vs. ATL) brings efficiency inside, while Diabaté (8.2 RPG) anchors Charlotte’s rebounding edge (44.7 RPG, 11th).

Other notables: Hornets’ Kon Knueppel (five threes vs. OKC) could stretch the floor against Toronto’s strong perimeter D (34.2% opponent 3PT%, 3rd).

Series History

The Hornets hold the edge this season, winning both prior meetings: a 114-110 overtime thriller at home on November 29 (led by Bridges’ 35 points) and a December 5 victory. However, Toronto has dominated longer-term, going 10-4 SU in the last 14 games and 6-4 SU in the last 10 head-to-heads (4-6 ATS, 4-6 O/U). In those 10 games, Toronto averaged 113.8 PPG to Charlotte’s 110.9, with better FG% (47.9% vs. 46.7%) and rebounding (45.6 vs. 41.9).

Betting Trends

Toronto: 4-1 ATS and SU in last 5 games; 18-19 ATS overall (10-7 ATS away); UNDER in 9 of last 12 games and 7 of last 8 road games; 5-1 ATS vs. Southeast Division; 10-4 SU in last 14 vs. Charlotte.

Charlotte: 7-1 ATS in last 8 games; 21-15 ATS overall (10-7 ATS home); UNDER in 14 of last 20 games but OVER in 4 of last 5 home games; 5-15 SU vs. Atlantic Division; UNDER in 4 of last 5 vs. Toronto.

CategoryTorontoCharlotte
ATS Overall18-1921-15
ATS Last 106-48-2
O/U Overall14-2314-22
O/U Last 103-75-5

Game Odds

Toronto Raptors               -2.5

Charlotte Hornets            230.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, January 6, 2026

Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign All-CFL halfback Evan Holm to two-year contract extension

CFL Editor
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Winnipeg Blue Bombers sign All-CFL halfback Evan Holm to two-year contract extension

WINNIPEG, MB., – The Winnipeg Blue Bombers today announce the club has agreed to terms on a two-year extension with veteran defensive back Evan Holm.

He was scheduled to become a free agent in February.

Holm (5-11, 188; University of North Dakota; born: May 14, 1998, in Edina, MN.) returns in 2026 for his fifth year with the Blue Bombers and following a 2025 season that was the best in his Canadian Football League career.

Holm was named to the CFL and West Division All-Star teams in 2025 and was also saluted as the Blue Bombers Most Outstanding Defensive player after finishing with 55 tackles, six more on special teams, two forced fumbles and a team high four interceptions.

He started all 18 regular-season games and the Eastern Semi-Final in 2025 and has not missed a single contest since 2023, with 63 games – all as a Blue Bomber – now to his name.

Holm dressed for 47 games, starting 25, during his days with the Fighting Hawks and earned All-Missouri Valley Football Conference honours during his redshirt senior season (2020-21) and was named as an honourable mention to the MVFC All-Academic Team.  Holm was named UND’s most-valuable defensive back in his junior season and as a freshman was named to the Big Sky All-Academic Team.

Jahyae Brown to Battle Arnold Gonzalez in Exciting Co-Feature on Thursday, January 15th

Fight Editor
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Jahyae Brown to Battle Arnold Gonzalez in Exciting Co-Feature on Thursday, January 15th

Shinard Bunch Takes on John Paul Magalong in Main-Event

Plus Undefeated Cornelius Mitchell, Jean Pierre Valencia, Juan Davilla, Michael Harris

New Boxing Promotion to Begin High-Quality East Coast Cards With Monthly Series

Trenton, NJ – Arnold Gonzalez will take on Jahyae Brown in an eight-round welterweight bout which will serve as the co-feature bout on Thursday night, January at the War Memorial in Trenton, NJ

CB Promotions will stage the card and will be the first show of the Tuesday Night at the Fights series that will be a monthly series that will take place in East Coast venues…..This is s special Thursday night fight card.

In the main event, local favorite Shinard Bunch 21-3-1, 17 KOs of Hamilton, New Jersey takes on John Paul Manalong in a 10-round junior welterweight bout.

Gonzalez of New York is 18-1 with nine knockouts. The 30-year-old is a seven year veteran and is coming off a eight-round unanimous decision on July 6, 2025 in Dubai.

Brown of Schenectady, New York has a record of 19-2 with 13 knockouts. The 26 year-old Brown is a seven year pro and has wins over Domedes Poles (12-2-1), and has won six-straight bouts which includes a third-round stoppage over Michael Ogundo on December 13, 2025 in Boston.

In Four-Round Bouts

Daniel Bean (4-2, 2 KOs) of Old Bridge, NJ takes on Michael Cserenyi (1-0) of Brooklyn in a heavyweight bout

Jean Pierre Valencia (4-0, 2 KO) of Irvington, NJ takes on Kenneth James (5-0 2 KO’s) of Phoenix in a middleweight fight.

Cornelius Mitchell (1-0-1) of Columbus, Ohio will battle Marquel McMillian (1-0, 1 KO) of Las Vegas in a heavyweight bout.

Calvary Harris of York, PA will make his debut against Ryan Mondala (0-3) of Colorado Springs in a junior lightweight bout.

Tunde Fatiregun (3-2) of Elizabeth, NJ fighting DeJon Farrell Francis (4-3, 3 KOs) of South Toms River, NJ in a cruiserweight bout.

Juan Davilla (4-0, 2 KOs) of Franklinville, NJ fights Stephen Barbee (1-5) of Las Vegas in a lightweight bout.

Michael Harris (4-0, 1 KO of Trenton takes on an opponent to be named in a lightweight bout.

NHL Morning Skate – January 7, 2026

NHL Editor
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NHL Morning Skate – January 7, 2026
NHL Morning Skate – Jan. 7, 2026

* Anthony Duclair and Connor McDavid became the latest players with a three-goal performance through the first six days of the New Year, which has featured nine combined hat tricks, five five-point games and five penalty-shot attempts.

* Nikita Kucherov and Darren Raddysh helped the Lightning log a win as they continue to approach the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series at Raymond James Stadium on Feb. 1 (6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN, SN, TVAS). The League will hold a tie-down meeting at the venue today.
 

* Several players featured in the new series “NHL My World” on the League’s YouTube channel contributed to victories Tuesday. The eight episodes offer an authentic look at eight of today’s top players from across the globe.

* Wednesday’s five-game slate is headlined by national doubleheaders in both the U.S. and Canada.

Duclair delivers three consecutive goals as hats continue to fly in 2026
Anthony Duclair (3-2—5) tallied three straight times to record his fourth NHL hat trick (also Dec. 14, 2019, Nov. 18, 2017 & Oct. 14, 2015) and concluded the contest with a career-high five points as the Islanders scored nine goals in a game for the first time since Feb. 11, 2011 (9-3 W vs. PIT) while matching their franchise mark for largest margin of victory in a shutout win. Ilya Sorokin made 44 saves to record his 26th career shutout and pass Glenn Resch (25) for the most in club history.

* The NHL has featured at least one hat trick in each of the first six days since the start of the New Year, tied for the longest run in League history (also Jan. 1-6, 1976). Current or eventual Islanders players accounted for half of the three-goal performances during the previous instance (Jude Drouin, Butch Goring & Wayne Merrick).
 

LIGHTNING LOG EIGHTH STRAIGHT WIN AS THE ROAD TO STADIUM SERIES PROGRESSES
The Lightning (26-13-3, 55 points) earned their eighth straight victory and matched the fifth-longest winning streak in franchise history as they passed the idle Red Wings (25-25-4, 54 points) for first in the Atlantic Division. Tampa Bay is gearing up to face another division rival, the Bruins, at the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union Stadium Series on Feb. 1.

* Multi-assist games from Nikita Kucherov (0-2—2) and Darren Raddysh (0-2—2) helped lift Tampa Bay over the League-leading Avalanche and handed them their fourth regulation loss of the season. Kucherov extended his multi-point streak to seven games and became the second player in Lightning history to record 300 multi-point performances. Raddysh, meanwhile, became the third defenseman in the past 35 years to record a three-game multi-point streak to begin a calendar year, joining Kris Letang (3 GP in 2022) and Alex Pietrangelo (3 GP in 2014 & 2012).

* ICYMI: Commissioner Gary Bettman spoke about the event at a luncheon Tuesday, and the League will hold a meeting at Raymond James Stadium today when multiple departments will tie down loose ends for the last time before the NHL takes over the venue. Click here to read more.



Italy-bound players shine with one month until Opening Ceremony
Tuesday’s edition of #NHLStats: Live Updates featured more notes from the 10-game slate, including several involving players named to rosters for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026:

* Team Canada’s Connor McDavid extended his point streak to 16 games – tied for the third-longest of his career – with a hat trick performance that included his fourth career penalty-shot goal. McDavid (14) passed Mark Messier (13) for the fourth-most hat tricks in Oilers history and boosted his goal total during this 16-game stretch to 17, which is now the most in any of his point streaks.


* Tage Thompson tallied his first goal since learning he was named to Team USA’s roster to help Buffalo improve to 11-1-0 in 12 games since Dec. 9, 2025.Thompson is set to become the third Sabres player to represent Team USA at an Olympics with NHL participation, following Ryan Miller (2014 & 2010) and Chris Drury (2006).

* Team Finland’s Kaapo Kakko (2-1—3) posted a game-high three points and scored the winning goal to help Seattle extend its point streak to nine games (8-0-1) – the second-longest stretch in franchise history (11-0-2 in 2022-23). Kakko and rookie Berkly Catton (2-0—2) – who scored his first two NHL goals – marked the fifth game in Kraken history to feature multiple players score two-plus goals. The last time they achieved this feat was Dec. 28, 2024 (Jaden Schwartz & Vince Dunn).

* Auston Matthews scored a second-period tally after being honored by Mats Sundin during pre-game ceremony for recently passing Sundin atop the franchise’s all-time goals list. Matthews’ first game after claiming the Maple Leafs’ goals record was similar to Sundin’s, who also had a second-period goal with head coach Paul Maurice in the building on Oct. 13, 2007.



* Team USA teammates shone in a back-and-forth affair between the Jets and Golden Knights as Kyle Connor – who registered his ninth consecutive 20-goal season – gave Winnipeg its second lead of the game in the third period before Vegas later tied the game and won in overtime after Jack Eichel collected his 400th career assist on Tomas Hertl’s game-winning goal. Eichel is one of 12 American players in NHL history to hit the mark in 650 games or fewer and required the second-fewest contests among active skaters behind Patrick Kane (636 GP). 


* Brandon Bussi made 20 saves to earn his 15th career win (15-2-1 in 18 GP) and required the fewest games in NHL history by a goaltender to hit the mark. His teammate, Sebastian Aho (0-1—1), is one of the eight players featured in current or upcoming episodes of “NHL My World,” a new short-form series debuting on the League’s YouTube channel. Click here to read more.

QUICK CLICKS

* Maple Leafs celebrate Auston Matthews becoming team’s all-time leading goal scorer
* Ovi Jr. gets tooth pulled by Dad, leading to iconic selfie
* Lightning celebrates Jon Cooper’s 1,000th NHL game with special pre-game ceremony
* Evgeni Malkin feels ‘so much better,’ could return for Penguins on Thursday
* Season’s first ABC Hockey Saturday game delivered 1.6 million viewers

FIVE WEEKS UNTIL NHL PLAYERS RETURN TO OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES

NHL players will soon be heading to Italy to play for gold at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. The men’s tournament begins exactly in five weeks (Wednesday, Feb. 11), when Team Finland faces Team Slovakia and Team Italy meets Team Sweden. Two players facing off tonight in Los Angeles will also be heading overseas to take part in the event: Macklin Celebrini (Team Canada) and Adrian Kempe (Team Sweden).

Macklin Celebrini, F, San Jose Sharks / Team Canada (1st Olympics)

* Celebrini last represented Canada at the 2025 World Championship alongside current Olympic teammates Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, Bo Horvat, Travis Sanheim and Jordan Binnington, collecting 3-3—6 in eight games. In 2025-26, Celebrini has posted an 11-game point streak, the longest by a teenager in Sharks history, and has moved within striking distance of 130 career points (48-79—127 in 112 GP) – a benchmark only 11 players in NHL history have reached before age 20.

Adrian Kempe, F, Los Angeles Kings / Team Sweden (1st Olympics)

* Kempe suited up for Team Sweden at the 4 Nations Face-Off and scored in the tournament opener against Canada. The Kings forward, closing in on becoming the 10th player in franchise history with five consecutive 20-goal seasons (15-19—34 in 41 GP), has done so with 37 career game-winning goals since making his NHL debut in 2016-17; only three Swedish players have more during that span: Filip Forsberg (49), William Nylander (48) and Elias Lindholm (39).

DOUBLEHEADERS ON SPORTSNET, TNT HIGHLIGHT WEDNESDAY’S SLATE
A five-game Wednesday features a two-pack on Sportsnet, beginning with a clash between the Canadiens and Flames, as well as a doubleheader on TNT and HBO Max that pits the Stars against the Capitals and the Blues against the Blackhawks.
 


* Lane Hutson has collected 2-18—20 in 13 games since Dec. 11 on the back of eight multi-point outings – the most points among all defensemen and tied for the fourth most among all skaters over that span. Hutson (13-97—110 in 126 GP) needs three helpers to become the fastest player in Canadiens history to reach the 100-assist milestone after debuting with the club – a distinction held by Buddy O’Connor (129 GP) since March 18, 1944.



* Alex Ovechkin (17-19—36 in 43 GP) is fresh off a two-goal performance Monday and needs three tallies to reach the 20-goal plateau for the 21st time in his career. The Capitals captain can surpass Ron Francis (20) for the second-most 20-goal seasons in NHL history, behind Gordie Howe (22). Ovechkin can also move within one of Howe (22 from 1949-50 – 1970-71) for the most consecutive 20-goal campaigns in League history.

* Tyler Bertuzzi netted his second hat trick of the season Sunday – and one of nine in the first six days of 2026 – and will look to continue his goal-scoring ways against the Blues. Bertuzzi can become just the second Blackhawks skater in the past 30 years to record three hat tricks in a season, following Alex DeBrincat (3 in 2017-18).

Arizona Department of Gaming Reports October 2025 Sports Betting Totals

Gaming Editor
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Arizona Department of Gaming Reports October 2025 Sports Betting Totals

The Arizona Department of Gaming announced that bettors in the state wagered approximately $967 million on sports and events in October 2025, marking a 22.2% increase over October 2024.

The state collected an estimated $5.2 million in privilege fees for the month.

For the fiscal year to date, regulated event wagering and fantasy sports have generated a combined $20.7 million in privilege fees. Of that total, $20.2 million came from event wagering, while fantasy sports contributed $462,576.

NFL Wild Card Injury Report – Tuesday, January 6, 2026

NFL Editor
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NFL Wild Card Injury Report – Tuesday, January 6, 2026

GREEN BAY PACKERS at CHICAGO BEARS on Saturday night
Green Bay Packers
Warren Brinson DT Foot Limited Participation —
Javon Bullard S Knee Limited Participation —
Edgerrin Cooper LB Shoulder Limited Participation —
Matthew Golden WR Achilles Full Participation —
Bo Melton CB Knee Did Not Participate —
Nick Niemann LB Pectoral Limited Participation —
Zach Tom T Back, Knee Limited Participation —
Lukas Van Ness DE Foot Full Participation —
Dontayvion Wicks WR Concussion Limited Participation —
John Williams G Back Limited Participation —
Malik Willis QB Right Shoulder, Hamstring – Limited Participation —
Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation.
Chicago Bears
Chauncey Gardner-Johnson CB Concussion Did Not Participate —
Kyler Gordon CB Groin Limited Participation —
Braxton Jones T Knee Full Participation —
Nick McCloud CB Illness Full Participation —
D.J. Moore WR Knee Limited Participation —
Rome Odunze WR Foot Limited Participation —
Ozzy Trapilo T Quadricep Limited Participation —
Joe Tryon DE Concussion Did Not Participate —
Jahdae Walker WR Illness Did Not Participate —
Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation.

LOS ANGELES RAMS at CAROLINA PANTHERS on Saturday night
Los Angeles Rams
Davante Adams WR Hamstring Full Participation —
Kevin Dotson G Ankle Did Not Participate —
Terrance Ferguson TE Hamstring Did Not Participate —
Braden Fiske DE Ankle Limited Participation —
Tyler Higbee TE Ankle Limited Participation —
Quentin Lake S Elbow Full Participation —
Josh Wallace CB Ankle Did Not Participate —
Jordan Whittington WR Knee Did Not Participate —
Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation.
Carolina Panthers
Bobby Brown DT Concussion Limited Participation —
Claudin Cherelus LB Calf, Ankle Full Participation —
Robert Hunt G Biceps Full Participation —
Robert Rochell CB Concussion Limited Participation —
Tershawn Wharton DT Hamstring Full Participation —
Chandler Zavala G Calf Full Participation —
Walkthrough on Tuesday, the practice report is an estimation.

Illinois Regulators Suspend Hawthorne Racing After Purse Checks Bounce; IRB Stops Live Racing and OTB; Horsemen Report Two Rounds of Bounced Payments; State Left Without Live Parimutuel Racing—for Now

Agate Editor
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Illinois Regulators Suspend Hawthorne Racing After Purse Checks Bounce; IRB Stops Live Racing and OTB; Horsemen Report Two Rounds of Bounced Payments; State Left Without Live Parimutuel Racing—for Now

Illinois’ troubled Hawthorne Race Course has been ordered to halt live racing and suspend its off‑track betting (OTB) operations after horsemen at the current harness meet reported receiving purse checks that bounced. Sports betting at the facility remains unaffected.

The Illinois Racing Board (IRB) issued the shutdown order Friday, leaving the state without any live parimutuel horse racing until Hawthorne can resume operations. Although regulators have described the suspension as temporary, no reopening date has been set, and the IRB may require financial assurances before racing is allowed to restart. State rules mandate that racetracks maintain adequate funds to cover purse payments.

Horsemen Call Situation an “Embarrassing Failure”

Jeff Davis, president of the Illinois Harness Horsemen’s Association, told members that purse checks were returned unpaid “for the second time in a matter of weeks,” calling it “another embarrassing failure for Hawthorne Race Course.”

Davis urged Hawthorne to immediately provide a letter from its bank confirming the issue was a technical glitch rather than a lack of available funds. “Horsemen’s livelihoods depend on this money, and we are well beyond the point where we can trust what Hawthorne tells us,” he wrote.

Stalled Racino Project Adds Pressure

Illinois lawmakers approved legislation in 2019 allowing racetracks to apply for casino licenses, and Hawthorne received preliminary approval later that year. The track began demolishing its grandstand to make way for a racino, but the project has since stalled.
According to reporting by the Chicago Tribune, Hawthorne’s owners have struggled to secure financing and owe significant debts to contractors.

The uncertainty has also slowed development elsewhere. Regulators have been hesitant to approve competing racetrack or casino projects within the same radius until Hawthorne’s status is resolved.

Simulcast Access Cut in Recent Years

Hawthorne has faced additional operational challenges. In both 2024 and 2025, simulcast providers—including Churchill Downs Inc.—cut off the track’s access to race signals due to unpaid settlement fees. As a result, bettors were unable to wager on races from several major tracks through Hawthorne’s wagering terminals.

With no other Illinois track currently running live parimutuel racing, the state will remain without active racing until Hawthorne satisfies regulators and resumes operations. Fairmount Park and Suburban Downs have been approved to race later in the year.

Boxing Match Preview: Agit Kabayel (26-0-0, 18 KOs) vs. Damian Knyba (17-0-0, 11 KOs)

Fight Editor
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Boxing Match Preview: Agit Kabayel (26-0-0, 18 KOs) vs. Damian Knyba (17-0-0, 11 KOs)

Event Overview

The main event is a 12-round heavyweight contest for the WBC Interim Heavyweight Title, with champion Agit Kabayel making his first defense against unbeaten challenger Damian Knyba. This clash of undefeated heavyweights pits Kabayel’s proven elite-level experience and body-attack pressure against Knyba’s size, reach, and rising momentum in a homecoming bout for the German champion that could position the winner closer to an undisputed title shot.

Venue Location: Rudolf Weber Arena, Oberhausen, Germany. This 12,650-capacity venue in the Ruhr region is a boxing stronghold, previously hosting major German events and known for its passionate crowds, especially for local heroes like Kabayel.

Ringwalks begin at 4:00 PM CET (local time; 10:00 AM ET / 7:00 AM PT), with the main event ringwalk expected around 9:00-10:00 PM CET (3:00-4:00 PM ET / 12:00-1:00 PM PT). The event streams live worldwide on DAZN.

Injury Report

Agit Kabayel — No reported injuries heading into the fight. Kabayel has been fully active in camp with no setbacks noted.

Damian Knyba — No current injuries. Knyba overcame an injury-plagued 2024 but has been healthy and active in 2025, with no issues reported for this bout.

Fighter Matchups and Profiles

This orthodox-vs-orthodox heavyweight showdown contrasts Kabayel’s relentless pressure, body punching, and proven chin against Knyba’s significant size advantage and jab-from-range approach. Knyba holds edges in height (6’7″ vs. 6’3″) and reach (86″ vs. 80″), potentially allowing him to box from distance, while Kabayel’s work rate and inside game could neutralize that if he closes the gap.

Agit Kabayel (26-0-0, 18 KOs):

Background — 33-year-old orthodox fighter from Bochum, Germany (born in Leverkusen). Known for his high-volume body attacks, durability, and ability to break down elite opponents, Kabayel has emerged as one of the division’s top contenders with upset wins in high-profile settings.

Notable Achievements — Current WBC interim heavyweight champion (won via KO over Zhilei Zhang in Feb 2025); former European heavyweight champion; ranked top-5 across major bodies.

Damian Knyba (17-0-0, 11 KOs):

Background — 29-year-old orthodox fighter from Bydgoszcz, Poland (based in New Jersey, USA), nicknamed “Polish Hussar.” A tall, athletic heavyweight with strong amateur roots, Knyba uses his jab and reach effectively while developing power; signed with Top Rank.

Notable Achievements — Undefeated pro with growing knockout streak; former Polish national champion as amateur; rising prospect challenging for his first world title.

Recent Form

Kabayel enters on a dominant run against top-tier opposition, while Knyba has built momentum with stoppages but against lesser-tested foes.

Agit Kabayel’s Recent 5 Fights:

DateOpponentResultMethod/Notes
Feb 2025Zhilei ZhangWinKO 6 (won interim WBC title; survived KD)
May 2024Frank SanchezWinTKO 7 (dropped twice)
Dec 2023Arslanbek MakhmudovWinTKO 4 (three KDs)
Mar 2023Agron SmakiciWinTKO 3
May 2022Pavel SourWinUD 12

Kabayel is 5-0 in his last five, all against strong competition, with three stoppages showcasing his elite-level finishing ability.

Damian Knyba’s Recent 5 Fights:

DateOpponentResultMethod/Notes
Oct 2025Joey DawejkoWinTKO 7
2025Marcin SiwyWinKO
2025Andrzej WawrzykWinKO
2023/2024Curtis HarperWinTKO 8
EarlierVariousWinsStoppages/building record

Knyba is unbeaten with recent stoppages, showing improved power and activity after a quieter 2024.

Fight History

Head-to-Head: First meeting; no common opponents. Kabayel has faced (and beaten) much higher-level competition, while Knyba’s resume is against journeymen and regional foes.

FIGHT ODDS

Agit Kabayel                      – 2000

Damian Knyba                  + 900

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 9, 2025

Tampa Bay Lightning recall Defenseman Simon Lundmark from AHL Syracuse

NHL Editor
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Tampa Bay Lightning recall Defenseman Simon Lundmark from AHL Syracuse

TAMPA BAY – The Tampa Bay Lightning have recalled defenseman Simon Lundmark from the Syracuse Crunch of the American Hockey League, Vice President and General Manager Julien BriseBois announced today.

Lundmark, 25, has played in 27 games with Syracuse this season, recording five assists and 12 penalty minutes with 31 shots on goal. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound defenseman has appeared in 281 career AHL games between the Crunch and Manitoba Moose, registering 16 goals and 67 points with 94 penalty minutes and three game-winning tallies. 

Lundmark was originally drafted by the Winnipeg Jets in the second round, 51st overall, of the 2019 NHL Draft. He signed with Tampa Bay as a free agent on July 1, 2025, and is looking to make his NHL debut. 

Boxing Match Preview: Jadier Herrera (17-0-0, 15 KOs) vs. Ricardo Nunez (26-7-0, 22 KOs)

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Boxing Match Preview: Jadier Herrera (17-0-0, 15 KOs) vs. Ricardo Nunez (26-7-0, 22 KOs)

Event Overview

The bout between Jadier Herrera and Ricardo Nunez is a 12-round lightweight contest (135 lbs limit) for the vacant WBC Interim World Lightweight Title, serving as the co-main event on the card headlined by Agit Kabayel vs. Damian Knyba.

This matchup features a young, undefeated Cuban knockout artist in Herrera against the experienced Panamanian power puncher Nunez in a classic prospect-vs-veteran clash, with Herrera’s athleticism and precision potentially clashing against Nunez’s veteran savvy and durability.

Venue Location: Rudolf Weber Arena, Oberhausen, Germany.

This 12,650-capacity multi-purpose arena is a frequent host for boxing events in Europe, known for its intimate atmosphere and having previously staged fights like those involving Wladimir Klitschko and Agit Kabayel. It’s located in the heart of Oberhausen, easily accessible via public transport and near major highways.

Ringwalks are scheduled to begin at 4:00 PM CET (local time, 10:00 AM ET / 7:00 AM PT), with the Herrera vs. Nunez ringwalk anticipated around 9:00 PM CET (3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT), depending on undercard progression.

The card will be broadcast on platforms like Sky Sports in the UK and potentially DAZN or ESPN internationally, with streaming options available.

Injury Report

Jadier Herrera: No reported injuries or health concerns as of January 5, 2026. Herrera’s most recent activity shows no setbacks, and training camp reports indicate full fitness.

Ricardo Nunez: No current injuries documented. Nunez’s last bout in June 2025 ended without issues, and no recent reports suggest any lingering problems.

Fighter Matchups and Profiles

This southpaw-vs-orthodox lightweight title eliminator could hinge on Herrera’s superior athleticism, footwork, and knockout power against Nunez’s experience in high-stakes fights and ability to absorb punishment. Herrera holds advantages in height (5’9″ vs. 5’6″) and likely reach (estimated 70″ vs. 66″), allowing him to control range with jabs and counters, while Nunez’s compact frame suits his aggressive, inside-fighting style.

Jadier Herrera (17-0-0, 15 KOs):

Background: 23-year-old southpaw from Camaguey, Cuba (residing in Dubai, UAE), nicknamed “One Billion.” A former amateur standout, Herrera turned pro in 2021 and is known for his explosive power, quick feet, head movement, and heavy hands, drawing comparisons to Cuban greats like Yuriorkis Gamboa.

Trained by Joe McNally in Liverpool, he’s ranked highly by major sanctioning bodies (WBC #3, WBO #10, IBF #11).

Notable Achievements: Undefeated pro record with 88% KO rate; recent wins over solid opposition like Jose Rodolfo Macias and Oliver Flores.

Ricardo Nunez (26-7-0, 22 KOs):

Background: 32-year-old orthodox fighter from La Chorrera, Panama, nicknamed “El Cientifico.” Debuting in 2010, Nunez is a durable power puncher with experience against elite talent, including Gervonta Davis, emphasizing volume and body work despite recent inconsistencies.

Ranked WBC #1 at lightweight, he’s a veteran with titles like Fedecaribe and Fedelatin.

Notable Achievements: Challenged for WBA super featherweight title in 2019; wins over prospects like Eduardo Pacheco.

Recent Form

Herrera enters on a nine-fight KO streak, showcasing dominance against escalating competition, while Nunez has been inconsistent, mixing wins with stoppage losses but showing resilience.

Jadier Herrera’s Recent 5 Fights

DateOpponentResultMethod/Notes
Mar 2025Jose Rodolfo Macias EnriquezWinTKO (Rd 7)
Oct 2024Oliver FloresWinTKO (Rd 3)
Jun 2024Andres NavarreteWinTKO (Rd 1)
Mar 2024Mariano Jorge SandovalWinTKO (Rd 4)
Dec 2023Juan Pablo MezaWinTKO (Rd 2)

Herrera is 5-0 in his last five, all by stoppage, with an average finish under 4 rounds, highlighting his growing power and precision.

Ricardo Nunez’s Recent 5 Fights

DateOpponentResultMethod/Notes
Jun 2025Jon FernandezLossDQ (Rd 3, illegal blow)
Apr 2025Melving LopezLossTKO (Rd 5)
Mar 2023Zaur AbdullaevLossUD (10 Rds)
Jul 2019Gervonta DavisLossTKO (Rd 2)
Apr 2019Eduardo PachecoWinKO (Rd 1)

Nunez is 1-4 in his last five, with losses to top competition but a quick KO win showing he still carries power.

Fight History

Head-to-Head: No previous encounters between Herrera and Nunez.  

They share no common opponents of significance, though Nunez has faced elite punchers like Gervonta Davis, while Herrera’s resume is against regional talent.

FIGHT ODDS

Jadier Herrera                   – 1800

Ricardo Nunez                   + 750

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 9, 2025

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