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BET HIP HOP AWARDS 2023 Nominations Announced!

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(New York, NY – September 7, 2023) – Today, BET announced the nominees for the 18th annual “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 2023 honoring the past year in Hip Hop music across 17 categories, selected by a voting academy of esteemed music industry insiders. The telecast, which for close to 20 years, remains the only award show dedicated to celebrating hip hop culture, will salute 50 years of Hip Hop with not-to-be-missed moments and performances. “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 2023 will tape from Atlanta, GA, on Tuesday, October 3 and will premiere Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at 9 PM ET/PT on BET. 

21 Savage and Cardi B lead this year’s nominations with an outstanding 12 nods each. 21 Savage’s 12 nominations include ‘Best Collaboration,’ ‘Lyricist of the Year,’ ‘Hip Hop Album of the Year,’ ‘Hip Hop Artist of the Year,’ ‘Hustler of the Year,’ ‘Best Duo or Group,’ twice for ‘Best Hip Hop Video,’ ‘Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse’ and ‘Song of the Year.’ Cardi B’s 12 nods include ‘Best Live Performer,’ ‘Lyricist of the Year,’ ‘Hip Hop Artist of the Year,’ ‘Hustler of the Year,’ twice for ‘Best Collaboration,’ ‘Best Hip Hop Video,’ ‘Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse’ and ‘Song of the Year.’ Drake follows with nine nods including ‘Best Hip Hop Video,’ ‘Best Duo or Group,’ ‘Best Live Performer,’ ‘Lyricist of the Year,’ ‘Song of the Year.’ ‘Hip Hop Album of the Year,’ ‘Hip Hop Artist of the Year,’ ‘Hustler of the Year,’ and ‘Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse’. Burna Boy and DJ Khaled round out the top five with an impressive seven nods each. J. Cole scores six nods. Coi Leray, GloRilla, and Jay-Z are tied at five nods each. 

Other notable nominations include, Lil Uzi Vert who received four nominations. DaBaby, Kendrick Lamar, Latto, Lil Durk, Megan Thee Stallion, and Metro Boomin received three nominations each. 

“This year’s ‘BET Hip Hop Awards will mark the culmination of our year-long celebration of hip hop’s storied creation and the art form’s sonic and cultural expansion,” said Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy for BET. “We are honored by this year’s roster of nominees as they continue to carry the creativity and diversity of hip hop into the future. We congratulate each nominee on their accomplishments as they take hip hop artistry to new heights.”

See below for the complete list of “BET HIP HOP AWARDS” 2023 Official Nominees:

Best Hip-Hop Video
“Just Wanna Rock” — Lil Uzi Vert
“Players (DJ Smallz 732 – Jersey Club Remix)” — Coi Leray
“Put It On Da Floor Again” — Latto Feat. Cardi B
“Shake Sumn” — DaBaby
“Sittin’ On Top of the World” — Burna Boy Feat. 21 Savage
“Spin Bout U” — Drake & 21 Savage
“Tomorrow 2” — GloRilla & Cardi B

Best Collaboration
“All My Life” — Lil Durk Feat. J. Cole
“God Did” — DJ Khaled Feat. Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, John Legend & Fridayy
“Players (DJ Saige Remix)” — Coi Leray Feat. Busta Rhymes
“Princess Diana” — Ice Spice & Nicki Minaj
“Put It On Da Floor Again” — Latto Feat. Cardi B
“Sittin’ On Top Of The World” — Burna Boy Feat. 21 Savage
“Tomorrow 2” — GloRilla & Cardi B

Best Duo or Group
City Girls
DJ Drama & Jeezy
Drake & 21 Savage
EARTHGANG
Larry June & The Alchemist
Quavo & Takeoff
Rae Sremmurd

Best Live Performer
Burna Boy
Busta Rhymes
Cardi B
Coi Leray
DaBaby
Drake
Kendrick Lamar
Megan Thee Stallion

Lyricist of the Year
21 Savage
André 3000
Burna Boy
Cardi B
Conway The Machine
Drake
J. Cole
Kendrick Lamar

Video Director of the Year
Anderson .Paak
Cole Bennett
Colin Tilley
DaBaby & Reel Goats
Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
Dave Meyers
Travis Scott

Song of the Year
“All My Life” — Lil Durk Feat. J. Cole
“God Did” — DJ Khaled Feat. Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z , John Legend & Fridayy
“Just Wanna Rock” — Lil Uzi Vert
“Players” — Coi Leray
“Put It On Da Floor Again” — Latto Feat. Cardi B
“Rich Flex” — Drake & 21 Savage
“Sittin’ On Top Of The World” — Burna Boy Feat. 21 Savage
“Tomorrow 2” — GloRilla & Cardi B

Hip-Hop Album of the Year
Anyways, Life’s Great… — GloRilla
Coi — Coi Leray
God Did — Dj Khaled
Her Loss — Drake & 21 Savage
Heroes & Villains — Metro Boomin
Jackman. — Jack Harlow
Pink Tape — Lil Uzi Vert
Traumazine — Megan Thee Stallion

Hip Hop Artist of the Year
21 Savage
Burna Boy
Cardi B
Drake
GloRilla
J. Cole
Kendrick Lamar
Lil Uzi Vert

Producer of the Year
ATL Jacob
DJ Khaled
Dr. Dre
Hit-Boy
Hitmaka
Kaytranada
London On Da Track
Metro Boomin
The Alchemist

Best Breakthrough Hip-Hop Artist
Armani White
Central Cee
Doechii
Finesse2tymes
Ice Spice
Kaliii
Lola Brooke
Sexyy Redd

DJ of the Year
Chase B
D-Nice
DJ Cassidy
DJ Clark Kent
DJ Drama
DJ Jazzy Jeff
DJ Khaled
Kaytranada
Metro Boomin

Best Hip-Hop Platform
All Hip Hop
Caresha Please
Drink Champs
HipHop DX
Million Dollaz Worth Of Game
Rap Caviar
The Breakfast Club
The Joe Budden Podcast
XXL

Hustler of the Year
21 Savage
50 Cent
Burna Boy
Cardi B
Caresha
DJ Khaled
Drake
Jay-Z

Sweet 16: Best Featured Verse
21 Savage “Creepin’” — (Metro Boomin Feat. The Weeknd & 21 Savage)
21 Savage “Peaches & Eggplants” — (Young Nudy Feat. 21 Savage)
André 3000 “Scientists & Engineers” — (Killer Mike & André 3000 Feat. Future & Eryn Allen Kane)
Cardi B “Tomorrow 2” — (GloRilla & Cardi B)
Cardi B “Put It On Da Floor Again” — (Latto Feat. Cardi B)
Drake “Oh U Went” — (Young Thug Feat. Drake)
J. Cole “All My Life” — (Lil Durk Feat. J. Cole)
Jay-Z “God Did” — (DJ Khaled Feat. Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z , John Legend & Fridayy)

Big Freedia, Tamar Braxton, Gary With Da Tea Attend Atlanta Black Pride

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September 4, 2023 – The Vision Community Foundation, Traxx Girls Inc and Rockstars Production celebrated Atlanta Black Pride Weekend – the country’s leading LGBTQ+ annual pride celebration, during Labor Day weekend 2023.

On Sunday, September 3rd, Atlanta’s Piedmont Park showcased the 11th annual Pure Heat Community Festival; also known as a free “day of unity.” The cultural event included market and food vendors, live celebrity and local performers, entertainment, educational forums, prizes & giveaways, all designed to bring together the spirit of community, pride, and vision. The Pure Heat Community Festival is a front seat into a spectacular gathering of minority LGBTQ+ people and their allies in the heart of Atlanta. 

GRAMMY Award winner, Big Freedia received the annual ICON award; Celebrated media personality Gary With Da Tea (of DISH Nation & Rickey Smiley Morning Show) received the annual Trailblazer award presented by Tamar Braxton; and Rashad Burgess (VP Advancing Health and Black Equity, Gilead Sciences) received the annual Humanitarian Award, presented by Bishop O.C. Allen, III.

Taking the performance stage for 2023: Suni MF, Ty Valentino, Nubian, Virgo Gang, RJ Brady, Asia Nae, Arsai, Aryee The Gem, Kaira, Krisean Woods, Cliff VMir, Austin Rogers, That Chick Angel, Steezo, Jhonni Blaze and a hair battle presented by My Black is Beautiful. The festival also included special appearances by TV personality and artist Joseline Hernandez, Tik-Tok Star Shamar and TV personality Derek J.

BELLATOR 299: Eblen VS. Edwards Event Complete With Six New Fights

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DUBLIN – BELLATOR MMA is pleased to announce six thrilling new additions to the highly anticipated BELLATOR 299: Eblen vs. Edwards event, set to take place on Saturday, September 23 at the iconic 3Arena in Dublin. A whopping 21 action-packed fights promise to deliver an unforgettable night of world-class mixed martial arts to the Irish capital, headlined by a BELLATOR Middleweight World Championship clash between undefeated champion Johnny Eblen (13-0) and the UK’s No.1 challenger Fabian Edwards (12-2), who has his sights set on joining his brother as a current world champion. The co-main event features wrestling prodigy-turned violent striker, No. 3-ranked Aaron Pico (11-4) taking on SBG Ireland’s No. 5-ranked Pedro Carvalho (13-7) in a must-see featherweight matchup.

The event will air live on SHOWTIME (US), BBC iPlayer (UK) and Virgin Media Sport (IRE) at 9 p.m. BST/4 p.m. ET. The preliminary card will kick off at 4 p.m. BST/11 a.m. ET and air on the BELLATOR YouTube Channel and BELLATOR channel on Pluto TV (US), as well as BBC iPlayer (UK) and Virgin Media Sport (IRE).

The new matchups are highlighted by a lightweight clash between Tunisian-Frenchman No. 9-ranked Mansour Barnaoui (20-5) and New Zealand’s Jay-Jay Wilson (9-1). Barnaoui has made a name for himself on the international scene, securing lightweight titles in the BAMMA, M-1 and Road FC promotions. Wilson has spent the majority of his fighting career under the BELLATOR banner, where he has proven to be one of the promotion’s most dangerous grappling aces, sporting nearly an 80% finish rate.

In the welterweight division, fans can look forward to an exciting showdown between SBG’s Luca Poclit (9-1) and “Vicious” Roman Faraldo (8-1). Poclit has established himself as a crafty and creative jiu-jitsu artist in the cage, to the point that his victory at BELLATOR 285 over Dante Schiro introduced the world to a new submission: “The Lucanator Choke,” which left Schiro fast asleep. American Top Team’s Faraldo is better known for what he does on his feet, which more often than not has resulted in taking his opponent off of theirs. Faraldo has lived up to his moniker, compiling a career highlight reel of pure violence and flying knees.

Two thrilling featherweight matchups have also been added as Frenchman Asael Adjoudj (6-1), who trains under John Kavanagh at SBG Ireland will face off against Manchester Top Team’s Ibrahim Al-Faqih Hassan (4-1), while undefeated Dagestani star-in-the-making Khasan Magomedsharipov (8-0) will take on Martin McDonough (12-6), who fights out of Wales.

In the lightweight division, Normandy, France’s Davy Gallon (21-8-2, 1 NC) will step into the BELLATOR cage against Berlin, Germany’s Attila Korkmaz (13-7).

Lastly, a heavyweight clash between Russia’s Sergei Bilostennyi (10-3) and Germany’s Kasim Aras (7-2) has been scheduled as the two heavy hitters will go toe-to-toe on September 23 in Dublin.

BELLATOR 299 promises to be an unforgettable night of world-class mixed martial arts action, showcasing the best talent in the sport. Fans can expect explosive knockouts, technical submissions, and fierce battles that will keep them on the edge of their seats.

Tickets for BELLATOR 299 are available now and can be purchased through the official BELLATOR and Ticketmaster websites, or at the 3Arena box office.

For more information, please visit bellator.com or follow @BELLATORMMA on social media for the latest updates and news.

BELLATOR 299: EBLEN VS. EDWARDS MAIN CARD

SHOWTIME (US) // BBC iPlayer (UK) // Virgin Media Sport (IRE)

September 23 — 9 p.m. IST/4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT

Middleweight World Championship: C-Johnny Eblen (13-0) vs. #1-Fabian Edwards (12-2)

 Featherweight Bout: #3-Aaron Pico (11-4) vs. #5-Pedro Carvalho (13-7)

Featherweight Bout: #4-Sinead Kavanagh (9-5) vs. #6-Sara Collins (4-0)

Featherweight Bout: #4-Mads Burnell (17-5) vs. #9-Daniel Weichel (42-14)

Welterweight Bout: #10-Sabah Homasi (17-11) vs. Levan Chokheli (12-2, 1 NC)

PRELIMINARY CARD

BELLATOR MMA YouTube and Pluto TV channels (US) // BBC iPlayer (UK) // Virgin Media Sport (IRE)

September 23 — 4 p.m. IST/11 a.m. ET/8 a.m. PT

Lightweight Bout: Peter Queally (13-8-1) vs. Daniele Miceli (10-5)

Lightweight Bout: #9-Mansour Barnaoui (20-5) vs. Jay-Jay Wilson (9-1)

Middleweight Bout: Gregory Babene (22-11, 1 NC) vs. Charlie Ward (10-6)

Bantamweight Bout: Ciaran Clarke (7-0) vs. Przemysław Górny (5-3)

Welterweight Bout: Luca Poclit (9-1) vs. Roman Faraldo (8-1)

Featherweight Bout: Khasan Magomedsharipov (8-0) vs. Martin McDonough (12-6)

Featherweight Bout: Darragh Kelly (3-0) vs. Jelle Zeegers (2-2)

Featherweight Bout: Brian Moore (16-9) vs. Otto Rodrigues (13-1)

Lightweight Bout: Davy Gallon (21-8-2, 1 NC) vs. Attila Korkmaz (13-7)

Featherweight Bout: Asael Adjoudj (6-1) vs. Ibrahim Al-Faqih Hassan (4-1)

Featherweight Bout: Kenny Mokhonoana (5-0) vs. Josh O’Connor (4-0)

Light Heavyweight Bout: Luke Trainer (7-1) vs. Laurynas Urbonavicius (14-1)

Welterweight Bout: Nicolo Solli (4-1, 1 NC) vs. Romain Debienne (9-4) 

Heavyweight Bout: Sergei Bilostennyi (10-3) vs. Kasim Aras (7-2)

Lightweight Bout: Mark Ewen (4-0) vs. Noah Gugnon (4-0)

Strawweight Bout: Chiara Penco (8-3) vs. Mackenzie Stiller (1-0)

Toya & Reginae Screen New WE tv Series in ATL

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August 23, 2023 – Last night, WE tv gathered Atlanta VIP’s for an advanced screening of its all-new reality series, Toya & Reginae, at IPIC Theaters in Atlanta, GA. Following the screening, invited guests joined the cast and crew at The Blue Room for a celebratory cocktail reception. Toya & Reginae will premiere on Thursday, August 24 at 9pm ET, with new episodes available on popular AMC Networks streaming service ALLBLK every Monday. 

VIP’s in attendance included cast members Red Rushing, Lourdes Rodriguez, Casey Johnson, Beedy Johnson, Ms. Anita, and Danielle Johnson. Other VIP guests included OMG Girlz (Zonnique Pullins, Baha Rodriguez, Breaunna Womack), Gary with da Tea, Kirk and Rasheeda Frost, Nivea, Ty Young, Lena Huggar, Monyetta Shaw, Shamea Morton and more.

The six, one-hour episodes follow the ups and downs of Atlanta’s most dynamic mother daughter duo, Toya Johnson-Rushing and Reginae Carter. The powerful pair are no strangers to the spotlight…every tweet, comment or post they make is dissected on all the hottest blogs, but what their fans see on social media is just scratching the surface. On each episode of Toya & Reginae, fans will get to peek behind the curtain and see who they truly are – what’s happening in their love lives, how they balance those relationships along with their exciting and demanding careers, and of course their relationship with each other. As happy as they appear on social media, in reality, their lives are unpredictable and full of chaos as they navigate their complex family dynamic.

Follow the series trends on social media using the hashtag #ToyaAndReginae and the handles @WEtv and @WatchAllBLK.

Historic BELLATOR 300 Event Announces First Five Preliminary Fights

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LOS ANGELES – BELLATOR MMA is adding five new highly anticipated bouts to the promotion’s historic BELLATOR 300 event taking place at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego, Calif. on Saturday, October 7.

The preliminary portion of BELLATOR 300 now features a heavyweight fight between No. 9-ranked Davion Franklin (6-1) and undefeated BELLATOR newcomer, Slim Trabelsi (5-0). Additionally, Olympic Games silver medalist and No. 2-ranked Sara McMann (14-6) will make her sophomore appearance in BELLATOR when she takes on Ireland’s No. 5-ranked Leah McCourt (7-3) in a high-stakes women’s featherweight bout.

Elsewhere on the talent stacked preliminary card, Hawaii’s Kai Kamaka III (11-5-1) draws No. 10-ranked featherweight Henry Corrales (21-6), San Diego’s own Jena Bishop (5-0) returns to the BELLATOR cage when she takes on No. 10-ranked Ilara Joanne (11-7) in a women’s flyweight affair, and undefeated bantamweight prospect Bobby Seronio III (3-0) will face-off against Alberto Garcia (2-0) after a previously scheduled bout between the two was postponed.

These five bouts join the historic BELLATOR 300 card which features the one-million-dollar BELLATOR Lightweight World Grand Prix rolling on when incumbent champion Usman Nurmagomedov (17-0) puts his belt and undefeated record on the line against former champion and current No. 4-ranked Brent Primus (12-3) in a semifinal matchup. The top pound-for-pound female fighter in the world and current BELLATOR featherweight world champion Cris Cyborg (26-2, 1 NC) will face No. 1-ranked Cat Zingano (14-4) in what can best be described as a grudge match between two of the most recognizable athletes on the planet. BELLATOR’s reigning Heavyweight World Champion Ryan Bader (31-7, 1 NC) defends his belt in a rematch against No. 1-ranked Linton Vassell (23-8, 1 NC). Finally, two of San Diego’s top fighters collide as Liz Carmouche (19-7) defends her belt against former World Champion and No. 2-ranked Ilima-Lei Macfarlane (13-2) in a highly anticipated battle between two close friends and training partners.

BELLATOR 300 will air live in the US on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Tickets for the historic event are on sale now at AXS.com and Bellator.com.

#9-Davion Franklin vs. Slim Trabelsi – Heavyweight Bout

No. 9-ranked heavyweight contender Davion Franklin will look to continue his momentum after his impressive performance last April when he out struck Kasim Aras at BELLATOR 295. Kicking off his career with a blistering five-fight winning streak, Franklin is ready to continue his rise to the top of the heavyweight division.At BELLATOR 300, the seven-fight BELLATOR homegrown talent will welcome American Kickboxing Academy’s undefeated knockout artist Slim Trabelsi to the promotion in an accelerating heavyweight clash. Although boasting three knockouts in five fights, the high-profile signee qualified for wrestling in the Olympic Games in 2016 and strives to make a statement in his highly anticipated promotional debut.

#2-Sara McMann vs. #5-Leah McCourt – Featherweight Bout

Despite being a world-renowned wrestler, at BELLATOR 294 Sara McMannwent toe-to-toe against women’s featherweight brawler and former three-time title challenger Arlene Blencowe in an instant classic bout last April in Honolulu, Hawaii. Looking to pick up her second win in her second BELLATOR outing, the Olympic Games silver medalist squares off against Ireland’s Leah McCourt, who is eager to reinsert herself back into title contention after a razor-thin decision defeat against title challenger Cat Zingano at BELLATOR 293. Victorious against Dayana Silva, Janay Harding, and other high-level featherweights, McCourt will aim to add another marquee name to her already impressive resume at BELLATOR 300. With the title of their division on the line the same evening, this decisive bout promises to deliver an exciting matchup at the Pechanga Arena.

#10-Henry Corrales vs. Kai Kamaka III – Featherweight Bout

Having competed 15 times under the BELLATOR banner since his debut in 2015, 37-year-old Henry Corraleshas become a mainstay within the featherweight division. On the heels of a dominant performance last February at the historic BELLATOR 290 giving Akhmed Magomedov his first loss, the heavy-handed veteran will meet Hawaii’s Kai Kamaka III in an electric matchup. Originally slated to face Akhmed Magomedov at BELLATOR 298, Kamaka reenters the fray after putting on a striking masterclass against Adli Edwards in front of his home state of Hawaii at BELLATOR 295. With victories over the likes of Aaron Pico and Georgi Karakhanyan, Corrales believes his experience will be too overwhelming for the young Kamaka.

#10-Ilara Joanne vs. Jena Bishop – Flyweight Bout

Joining BELLATOR 300’s San Diego residents Liz Carmouche, Ilima-Lei Macfarlane, and Cat Zingano, highly decorated grappler Jena Bishop will step into the BELLATOR cage for the second time against the dynamic No. 10-ranked Ilara Joanne in a women’s flyweight affair. A BJJ black belt under JW Wright, the multiple time IBJJF world champion hopes to impose her will against her toughest test to date on home turf, meanwhile the inclined Joanne will look to defend her top 10 ranking within the flyweight division.

Bobby Seronio III vs. Alberto Garcia – Bantamweight Bout

Hailing from Vallejo, Calif., Bobby Seronio III will make his first appearance in 2023 against promotional newcomer, Alberto Garcia in a bout featuring two promising prospects. Originally scheduled to face each other at BELLATOR 292 last March, both competitors are eager to return to action in front of the rowdy San Diego crowd.

BELLATOR 300 Main Card:

Saturday, October 7 – Live on SHOWTIME

Pechanga Arena in San Diego, CA

10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

Lightweight World Title Quadruple Main Event: C-Usman Nurmagomedov (17-0) vs. #4-Brent Primus (12-3)

Featherweight World Title Quadruple Main Event: C-Cris Cyborg (26-2, 1 NC) vs. #1-Cat Zingano (14-4)

Heavyweight World Title Quadruple Main Event: C-Ryan Bader (31-7, 1 NC) vs. #1-Linton Vassell (23-8, 1 NC)

Flyweight World Title Quadruple Main Event: C-Liz Carmouche (19-7) vs. #2-Ilima-Lei Macfarlane (13-2)

BELLATOR 300 Preliminary Card:

BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel | Pluto TV

Heavyweight Bout: #9-Davion Franklin (6-1) vs. Slim Trabelsi (5-0)

Featherweight Bout: #2-Sara McMann (14-6) vs. #5-Leah McCourt (7-3)

Featherweight Bout: #10-Henry Corrales (21-6) vs. Kai Kamaka III (11-5-1)

Flyweight Bout: #10-Ilara Joanne (11-7) vs. Jena Bishop (5-0)

Bantamweight Bout: Bobby Seronio III (3-0) vs. Alberto Garcia (2-0)

*Card order subject to change.

Atlanta Black Pride Weekend Set To Impact ATL Labor Day Weekend

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The Vision Community Foundation, Traxx Girls Inc and Rockstars Production announce the return of Atlanta Black Pride Weekend – the country’s leading LGBTQ+ annual pride celebration, during Labor Day weekend 2023, Thursday, August 31st – Monday, September 4th, 2023. The five-day Pride Celebration will include special appearances by: Big Freedia, Saucy Santana, Sexyy Redd, Fendi Da Rappa, Philaye, That Chick Angel, EJ King, Simone Tisci, Derek J and more. Atlanta Black Pride Weekend organizers, in conjunction with the mayor’s office and the Atlanta Police Department, have taken extra precautions to ensure that all celebration participants have a safe and enjoyable weekend in the great peach state. 

Kicking off Thursday, August 31st with an Atlanta Black Pride Weekend Opening Reception presented by the City of Atlanta and Mayor Andre Dickens at Atlanta City Hall, this year’s celebration offers a variety of cultural, educational, and entertainment activities designed for all participants. Daily activities will include film screenings, educational panels/forums, workshops, counseling sessions, day parties, comedy showcases, a booze cruise and so much more. The host hotel, Starling Hilton Midtown Atlanta, serves as the epicenter for lodging, convention, and general Atlanta information needs. Pride nightlife events will take place in many of Atlanta’s premiere venues.

The second annual Black Excellence Influencer’s Dinner will be hosted by RockStars Production and Traxx Girls on Friday, September 1 at the Starling Hotel. This highly anticipated affair serves as a Fundraiser to benefit Atlanta Black Pride Weekend and is a unique opportunity for trailblazers, leaders, and influencers to celebrate accomplishments while highlighting individuals and organizations who significantly impact and contribute to the LGBTQIA+ community. The 2023 honorees include: EJ King, Saucy Santana, Simone Tisci, Dedrick Tillerson, Earl D. Fowlkes Jr., Tori Cooper, Derek J, Officer King, Dr. Alie Redd, Michael Jonvier, David Graves, Gocha Hawkins and Reggie Thomas.

The second annual Atlanta Black Pride Weekend Film Festival will be held on Saturday, September 2 at IPIC Theaters in Midtown. The half-day festival will feature independent LGBTQIA+ films submitted via iElevate+ TV (all-new streaming app); screenings of the highly anticipated projects “SupperClub ATL,” and “TransWorld ATL,” and exclusive screenings of Sheryl Lee Ralph’s documentary short, UNEXPECTED. Additionally, Director Donnie Hue Frazier III’s Roux’s Blues . The film festival is free and open to the public; registration is available at PrideFilmFest.org. 

On Sunday, September 3, Atlanta’s Piedmont Park will showcase the 11th annual Pure Heat Community Festival; also known as a free “day of unity.” The cultural event will be equipped with market and food vendors, live celebrity and local performers, entertainment, educational forums, prizes & giveaways, all designed to bring together the spirit of community, pride, and vision. The Pure Heat Community Festival is a front seat into a spectacular gathering of minority LGBTQ+ people and their allies in the heart of Atlanta. GRAMMY Award winner, Big Freedia will receive the annual ICON award at the 2023 festival. For more information on the Pure Heat Community Festival visit: pureheatcommunityfestival.com.

Kerry Washington Visits World of Barbie

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Barbie mania continues! This weekend, the ever chic Kerry Washington dressed the part during her visit (which she shared via social media) to Santa Monica’s World of Barbie, a one-of-a-kind immersive experience wearing a Barbie themed “mother” shirt and matching pink glasses!

The visually stunning production also features a bespoke Barbie exhibit where guests can see how Barbie, her Dreamhouse, and her various vehicles have evolved over the years and learn more about how she has become the number one doll property worldwide. Open through September 4th, 2023, tickets are on sale at  https://feverup.com/m/128422.

Four World Title Fights Headline BELLATOR MMA’s Historic 300th Card on October 7th in San Diego

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5,300 days and nearly 3,500 MMA bouts will have passed on the illustrious road from BELLATOR 1 to BELLATOR 300. On Saturday, October 7, San Diego’s Pechanga Arena will host the culmination of over 14 years of mixed martial arts excellence, which for the first-time ever, includes four massive world championship fights for the promotion’s historic 300th event.

BELLATOR’s reigning Heavyweight World Champion Ryan Bader (31-7, 1 NC) defends his belt in a rematch against No. 1-ranked Linton Vassell (23-8, 1 NC). The top pound-for-pound female fighter in the world and current BELLATOR featherweight world champion Cris Cyborg (26-2, 1 NC) will face No. 1-ranked Cat Zingano (14-4) in what can best be described as a grudge match between two of the most recognizable athletes on the planet. The one-million-dollar BELLATOR Lightweight World Grand Prix rolls on when incumbent champion Usman Nurmagomedov (17-0) puts his belt and undefeated record on the line against former champion and current No. 4-ranked Brent Primus (12-3) in a semifinal matchup. Finally, two of San Diego’s top fighters collide as Liz Carmouche (19-7) defends her belt against former World Champion and No. 2-ranked Ilima-Lei Macfarlane (13-2) in a highly anticipated battle between two close friends and training partners.

BELLATOR 300 will air live in the US on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. A full array of undercard action for BELLATOR 300 will be announced shortly and will stream on the BELLATOR YouTube and PlutoTV channels.

Tickets for the event go on sale next Friday, August 18 at BELLATOR.com and Axs.com with a special pre-sale taking place on Wednesday and Thursday.

“When I first joined BELLATOR, we set out to sign and develop the best available talent in the world and produce events for massive audiences. Our first tentpole event was BELLATOR 131 in San Diego and we couldn’t be more excited to return to that very same arena for this monumental BELLATOR 300 event,” said BELLATOR President Scott Coker. “We wanted to give the fans and supporters an epic night of fights and there is no better way to do that than showcasing these four incredible champions all putting their belts on the line. I’m proud of the all the work we have done to grow this brand and its athletes since I came on board. I can’t wait for BELLATOR 300, which is going to be the biggest event in the history of BELLATOR MMA.”

BELLATOR’s longest-reigning Heavyweight World Champion, Ryan Bader has held the promotion’s 265-pound title for nearly half a decade. At BELLATOR 300, the first athlete to ever wear two division’s championship belts simultaneously will look to score his fourth straight heavyweight title defense against an already-vanquished foe dead set on revenge in Vassell. Now 40, Bader’s illustrious career has seen him go 4-0 in rematches; he defeated the legendary trio of Fedor Emelianenko, Antônio Rogério Nogueira, and Phil Davis twice over while also beating Lyoto Machidain their second meeting. On October 7, Bader will look to extend his unmatched longevity atop the heavyweight division by turning back the Englishman Vassell six years after their first fight, Bader’s first-ever defense of his then-held Light Heavyweight World Championship.

Seeking to avenge a prior loss in two consecutive outings, No. 1-ranked heavyweight contender Linton Vassell has looked like a man on a mission during his run at the Heavyweight World Championship. The longtime light heavyweight standout is a blistering 5-1 since the move up in weight, notching four knockouts in five fights. Fresh off a stunning first-round finish of former Interim Heavyweight Champion Valentin Moldavsky, Vassell believes that his time is now to take down Bader and finally capture the world title that has eluded him thus far in his incredible career. A professional since 2008 and BELLATOR athlete since 2013, the Sanford MMA product hopes his red-hot momentum will prove too much for Bader to handle on October 7, giving the heavyweight division its first new titleholder since 2019.

After a year spent adding ‘undefeated professional boxer’ to her unrivaled combat sports résumé, the greatest female fighter in MMA history returns to action in defense of her Featherweight World Championship at BELLATOR 300 when Cris Cyborg takes on heated rival Zingano. The 38-year-old Brazilian star has been historically dominant, holding the distinction of being MMA’s only Grand Slam Champion — with championships in BELLATOR, the UFC, Strikeforce, and Invicta FC — and compiling an 81% stoppage rate while remaining undefeated inside the BELLATOR cage. Since fighting for the belt in her promotional debut, Cyborg has added four title defenses to her legendary career. But perhaps no fighter has drawn the ire of BELLATOR’s No. 1 pound-for-pound female talent quite like Zingano, whose war of words with the champion will finally boil over this October 7 when these women’s MMA pioneers go toe-to-toe with the world title and bragging rights on the line. 

Long one of MMA’s most popular fan-favorites, No. 1-ranked featherweight contender Cat Zingano has won all four of her BELLATOR fights en route this BELLATOR 300 grudge match. A professional since 2008, Zingano’s iconic career has seen her defeat two former world champions in Amanda Nunesand Miesha Tate, but no victory would be as sweet as finally capturing that elusive championship belt and silencing Cyborg once and for all in front of her San Diego friends and family. The 41-year-old star is coming off a ‘Fight of the Year’ contending decision victory over fellow title hopeful Leah McCourt at BELLATOR 293, and she hopes the momentum she has built up in BELLATOR will follow her into this pivotal world championship matchup on October 7.

The reigning BELLATOR Lightweight World Champion, Usman Nurmagomedov has graduated from highly-touted prospect wunderkind to one of the world’s best professional mixed martial artists. At just 25, Nurmagomedov won his title by defeating BELLATOR’s all-time knockout king, Patricky Pitbull, in front of a raucous Chicago crowd at BELLATOR 288. Nurmagomedov has already defended his belt once as part of the $1,000,000 Lightweight World Grand Prix, sending MMA icon Benson Hendersoninto retirement with a lightning-quick first-round submission in their opening round matchup at BELLATOR 292. At the historic BELLATOR 300, Nurmagomedov will look to defeat his third straight world champion opponent by taking on Primusin this headlining semi-final matchup. The cousin of MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov hopes to keep his perfect record intact as he continues to follow in the footsteps of his prestigious relative this October 7 at the Pechanga Arena against Primus.

Entering the $1,000,000 Lightweight World Grand Prix as an alternate on short notice, former Lightweight World Champion Brent Primus made the most of his surprise entry into the tournament when he silenced the Paris crowd with his unanimous decision over much-hyped Frenchman Mansour Barnaoui at BELLATOR 296. Primus, 38, has been on a steady march back to the 155-pound title he captured by forcing a doctor’s stoppage against MMA star Michael Chandlerback in 2017. A Brazilian jiu jitsu black belt, Primus’ storied BELLATOR tenure has seen him win career bouts by submission, including a rare gogoplata. The Oregon-born grappling ace will look to complete his Cinderella story and reclaim the world title as the veritable dark horse of the tournament at BELLATOR 300, a win that would catapult him from the outside looking in to being one victory away from a life changing $1M grand prize.

After steamrolling the rest of the 125-pound division’s top five, Flyweight World Champion Liz Carmouche will try to make her fourth consecutive title defense against longtime friend and training partner Macfarlane at BELLATOR 300. The promotion’s No. 2-ranked pound-for-pound female talent has been simply unstoppable since signing with BELLATOR in 2020, and her added ferocity has led to a career-best five finishes in her past six fights. Most recently, Carmouche wowed the combat sports world with her comeback submission win over DeAnna Bennett at BELLATOR 294 in Hawaii. Already boasting victories over three world champions in Valentina Shevchenko, Jessica Andrade, and Juliana Velasquez, Carmouche will look to make it four on October 7 when she puts friendship aside for a possible twenty-five-minute slugfest with Macfarlane.

One day after Carmouche defended her title in Hawaii, Ilima-Lei Macfarlane did her part to book what she has called her “ultimate dream fight” against her friend and teammate by defeating No. 3-ranked contender Kana Watanabeat BELLATOR 295. With the long-discussed superfight now official, Macfarlane will turn her attention to defeating the reigning world champion and reconquering the flyweight division, which she helmed for over three years. The 33-year-old submission ace electrified BELLATOR with seven finishes during her first run at the title, becoming one of the faces of the promotion and one of MMA’s brightest female stars. After back-to-back victories, Macfarlane is poised for another crack at the title against an opponent she knows intricately well. On October 7, “The Ilimanator” hopes to bring the world championship home to Hawaii as the first of three title fights headlining the historic BELLATOR 300 event.

BELLATOR 300 Main Card:

Saturday, October 7 – Live on SHOWTIME

Pechanga Arena in San Diego, CA

10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

Heavyweight World Title Quadruple Main Event: C-Ryan Bader (31-7, 1 NC) vs. #1-Linton Vassell (23-8, 1 NC)

Featherweight World Title Quadruple Main Event: C-Cris Cyborg (26-2, 1 NC) vs. #1-Cat Zingano (14-4)

Lightweight World Title Quadruple Main Event: C-Usman Nurmagomedov (17-0) vs. #4-Brent Primus (12-3)

Flyweight World Title Quadruple Main Event: C-Liz Carmouche (19-7) vs. #2-Ilima-Lei Macfarlane (13-2)

*Card order subject to change.

Apply for BELLATOR media credentials 
RSVP for BELLATOR virtual media availabilities  

For more information on upcoming BELLATOR MMA events, visit BELLATOR.com. 

Updated schedule of BELLATOR events – click links for updated fight cards

Fri. Aug. 11 // BELLATOR 298: Storley vs. Ward // Sanford Pentagon // Sioux Falls, SD
Sat. Sept. 23 // BELLATOR 299: Eblen vs. Edwards // 3Arena // Dublin

Sat. Oct. 7 // BELLATOR 300 // Pechanga Arena // San Diego, CA

French Montana and AEW’S Jade Cargill Unite For ‘Good Summer’ Movement

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French Montana enlisted the talents of the one and only AEW’s wrestling sensation, Jade Cargill, to bring the summer to life with her scintillating debut appearance in the Good Summer music video. The highly anticipated track promises to be the ultimate anthem for the season, filled with feel-good vibes and memorable beats that will have you dancing all summer long. This groundbreaking release coincides with the celebration of Hip Hop’s 50th Birthday, adding even more significance to the summer spectacle.

In a surprising and exhilarating collaboration, Jade Cargill took center stage as the lead actress in French Montana’s scorching hot video. Known as one of wrestling’s shining stars, Jade took a well-deserved break this summer after an unforgettable career match, spending precious moments with her family. Embracing a brand new role, her powerful presence and magnetic charisma have brought a whole new dimension to the video, ensuring fans are in for a treat with her transformative performance.

For Jade, accustomed to playing the villain in the wrestling ring week after week, this was an exhilarating change of pace. In the Good Summer video, she let her hair down and immersed herself fully in the moment, sharing the screen with French Montana and a talented cast of performers to create a spectacular Good Summer movement. Directed by Rook, known for his innovative visual storytelling, the video promises to be a captivating cinematic experience that embodies the spirit of summer.

The Good Summer video exudes a vibrant and soulful New Orleans vibe. Dancers prance and twerk, embracing the infectious rhythms of the song, creating a captivating spectacle that perfectly complements the track’s upbeat and energetic vibe.

To make the release even more special, the Good Summer video is scheduled to hit the screens on the momentous day when Hip Hop celebrates its 50th Birthday. It’s a testament to French Montana’s commitment to the genre and his dedication to delivering memorable music to his fans, with Rook’s artistic vision bringing it all to life.

So, mark your calendars and get ready to embark on a scintillating journey with French Montana and Jade Cargill as they ignite the Good Summer movement. The video, brought to the screen by Rook’s unique and engaging direction, will undoubtedly leave you feeling invigorated, inspired, and yearning for more.

Get ready to experience the magic of Good Summer as French Montana continues to tell compelling stories through his music, and Jade Cargill shines brightly in her new role as a lead actress. This collaboration, enhanced by Rook’s creative touch, is a match made in musical heaven, and you won’t want to miss it!

For updates and the latest news, follow French Montana and Jade Cargill on their respective social media platforms. Be sure to stay tuned for the official Good Summer video release, and let the celebration of Hip Hop’s 50th Birthday kick off with an electrifying start!

Russell Wilson’s ‘God. Family. Football’ Premieres on Amazon Freevee September 1st

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Amazon Freevee has released the official trailer and key art for its coming-of-age Original docuseries, God. Family. Football., following former pro football player, legendary high school football coach, and pastor Denny Duron, as he comes out of a 30-year retirement from head coaching to lead the football program he founded at Evangel Christian Academy back to national prominence. All six episodes from the docuseries will premiere exclusively on Freevee in the U.S. beginning on Friday, September 1. Screeners for the series are available now on Screeners.com. 

God. Family. Football. features the rich, diverse personal stories of Evangel’s players, coaching staff, and the broader Shreveport community, set against the dramatic backdrop of the 2022 Louisiana high school football season. With the perennial high school football powerhouse—14 state championships in the last 20 years—coming off their worst season in school history, redemption is everyone’s goal. Pastor Denny Duron has returned to the head coaching position to lead this talented group of kids, with dreams of playing in college and the NFL, into prominence on the field, while molding them into future leaders off of it. As the team faces struggle and triumph on and off the field, they are united by coach Duron’s formula for success: “God first, family second, and football third.”

“What drew me to this project and inspired me to help tell God. Family. Football.’s story of teamwork, hard work, and discipline was coach Duron’s faith-first approach to the game,” says executive producer Russell Wilson. “As the leader of Evangel Christian Academy, one of the top football programs in the country, coach Duron not only preaches but exemplifies what it means to be a winner on and off the field, and it is an honor to be able to share his lessons and legacy.”

God. Family. Football. hails from Propagate and is executive produced by Ben Silverman, Howard T. Owens, and Drew Buckley. The series was created and executive produced by Aaron Benward of Watershed. Jared Goetz of Ascending Media Group, NFL quarterback Russell Wilson in association with Why Not You Productions, and Rob Gehring also serve as executive producers. Cliff Young, Cody Bess, Scott Brignac, Chelsea Friedland, and Matt Woolsey serve as co-executive producers.

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