LAS VEGAS (Aug. 10, 2026) — Former super welterweight world champion Abass Baraou has signed a multi-year promotional contract with Top Rank.

The Germany-born fighter of Togolese descent will return against Giovani Santillan on Friday, Sept. 11, in Oceanside, California.

“Abass Baraou’s recent performances speak for themselves,” said Top Rank President Todd duBoef. “He defied the odds by dominating Yoenis Tellez for the interim world title, was soon elevated to full champion, and came within a narrow split decision of unifying titles against Xander Zayas in January. Abass remains one of the division’s top fighters, and we are thrilled to welcome him to Top Rank as he pursues another championship reign.”

Baraou said, “Signing with Top Rank is a huge step in my career. I’ve always believed I belong on the biggest stage, and now I have the right team behind me to chase the biggest fights in boxing. Top Rank has a history of building champions, and I’m proud to join that legacy. I’m grateful for this opportunity, but this is only the beginning. My goal is clear: become world champion again.”

Baraou (17-2, 9 KOs) turned pro in 2018 following a standout amateur career that included gold at the 2017 European Championships and bronze at the World Championships. After a 2020 split decision loss to former world champion Jack Culcay, Baraou reeled off eight consecutive wins, highlighted by last August’s upset of the previously unbeaten Tellez for the WBA interim title. Baraou punctuated the unanimous points triumph with a knockdown in the closing seconds of the 12th stanza. He was then elevated to full champion the following month after Terence Crawford vacated the title. That set the stage for January’s unification showdown against WBO champion Xander Zayas, who edged Baraou via split decision.

Both top-ranked junior-middleweight contenders Giovani Santillan and Abass Baraou say they’re well aware of the career implications of winning or losing their 10-round main event on Friday, September 11, live on ProBoxTV (8:00 pm ET/5:00 pm PT) from Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, California.

Southpaw Santillan, 35-1 (18 KOs), the hometown hero from nearby San Diego, rated the IBF No. 12 junior-middleweight in the world, says he knows a victory over Baraou puts him right back in the division’s title picture.

Santillan will be looking for the fourth victory of his comeback since losing his “0” via unexpected TKO to Brian Norman Jnr for the interim WBO welterweight title in May 2024.

“This upcoming fight against Baraou is very important to me and to my career,” said Santillan. “I expect myself to win this fight and put on a great performance! This is the fight that will put me into the top of the division and give me a chance to challenge for a world title.”

Former WBA junior-middleweight champion Baraou, 17-2 (9 KOs), from Berlin, Germany, is the WBA No. 4-, WBO No. 6- and WBC No. 12-ranked junior-middleweight contender.

Known for his high-volume pressure, Baraou won the WBA Interim junior-middleweight world championship by scoring a final-round knockdown en route to a unanimous points verdict over then-interim champion, Yoenis Téllez in August 2025. He was elevated to full champion the following month, after Terence Crawford vacated the title.

Baraou will be making his first ring appearance since losing his 154lbs title by split decision in a WBO/WBA unification battle against Xander Zayas in late January this year.

The fight against Santillan, says Baraou, can serve as a springboard back to another shot at the world belt.

“This is a great matchup and a great opportunity for me to prove that I belong among the best,” said Baraou. “Santillan is a strong fighter, and I believe I have all the tools to beat him. I’ll be ready, and I can’t wait to put on a great performance.”

In the co-main event, former IBF featherweight world champion Luis Alberto Lopez, 32-3 (19 KOs) of Baja California, Mexico, will make his ProBox Promotions debut against rugged contender Daniel Lugo, 28-4-1 (19 KOs), of Sonora, Mexico.

WBO No. 6- and IBF No. 11-ranked “Venado” Lopez will be fighting for the third time since losing his IBF title to fellow ProBox Promotions stablemate Angelo Leo in August 2024.

In the chief supporting bout, undefeated junior-lightweights Dominic Valle, 13-0 (7 KOs), of Lutz, Florida, and Francois Scarboro Jnr, 14-0 (9 KOs), of Cheverly, Maryland, will collide with someone’s 0 on the line in an uncommonly high-stakes battle between rising prospects.

This event is presented by ProBox Promotions. The Santillan-Baraou main event is presented in association with Top Rank.

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  • Xander Zayas 153.5 lbs vs. Abass Baraou 153.5 lbs
(WBO/WBA Junior Middleweight World Title Unification — 12 Rounds)
Referee: Roberto Ramirez Jr.
Judges: Oliver Brien, Patrick Morley and Jose R. Torres

  •  Juanmita Lopez De Jesus 114.8 lbs vs. Conner Goade 113.9 lbs
(Junior Bantamweight — 6 Rounds)

• Carlos De Leon Castro 129.7 lbs vs. Diuhl Olguin 129.5 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight — 6 Rounds)

•  Yadriel Caban 115 lbs vs. Jeremis Hernandez-Torres 114.7 lbs
 (Junior Bantamweight — 4 Rounds)

• Euri Cedeno 159.7 lbs vs. Etoundi Michel William 159.9 lbs
 (Middleweight — 10 Rounds)

• Giovani Santillan 153.9 lbs vs. Courtney Pennington 153.5 lbs
 (Junior Middleweight — 10 Rounds)

To watch on mobile or desktop, visit trboxing.co/TopRankClassics. To watch on your smart TV, check the availability of FAST channel apps and look for Top Rank Classics on The Roku Channel, Tubi, or Vizio. 

The entire Zayas vs. Baraou card will re-air in the U.S. for free on the Top Rank Classics FAST channel, starting at 10 a.m. ET on Sunday, Feb. 1, airing all day until midnight. It will re-air once at 1 p.m. ET on Monday, Feb. 2.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (Jan. 30, 2026) — Welterweight contender Rohan Polanco fell ill late Thursday evening and was forced to withdraw from his bout against Christian Gomez.

The rest of the card tomorrow at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico, headlined by the Xander Zayas-Abass Baraou junior middleweight title unification showdown, will proceed as scheduled.

The six-round junior bantamweight fight between Juanmita Lopez De Jesus and Conner Goade will take place immediately before the main event.

Zayas-Baraou and the full undercard will stream for free on the Top Rank Classics FAST channel in the U.S. with a new start time of 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.

Zayas vs. Baraou will begin at approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

To watch on mobile or desktop, visit trboxing.co/TopRankClassics. To watch on your smart TV, check the availability of FAST channel apps and search for Top Rank Classics on The Roku Channel, Tubi, or Vizio. 

The full Zayas vs. Baraou card will be broadcast in Puerto Rico on WAPA Deportes, the only local channel dedicated entirely to sports programming, starting at 7:30 p.m. AST.

Doors will now open at 6:30 p.m. AST for fans attending the event.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (Jan. 29, 2026) — Puerto Rican WBO junior middleweight world champion Xander Zayas (22-0, 13 KOs) is set for his high-stakes homecoming. Zayas will battle WBA king Abass Barou (17-1, 9 KOs) on Saturday evening from the Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan.

The full Zayas vs. Baraou card will be broadcast in Puerto Rico on WAPA Deportes, the only local channel dedicated entirely to sports programming, starting at 6:30 p.m. AST. The event will also be available via live stream at https://wapa.tv/envivo/deportes/, exclusively for residents of Puerto Rico.

The WAPA Deportes telecast will feature seven bouts, including the return of second-generation superstar Juamita Lopez De Jesus (4-0, 2 KOs). The son of former two-division world champion Juan Manuel “Juanma” Lopez will face Conner Goade (8-4-2, 7 KOs) in a six-rounder at junior bantamweight.

“We have closely followed Xander Zayas’s career. His technical skill and power have propelled him to the peak of his career. Broadcasting this fight card, headlined by him, reflects WAPA Deportes’ commitment to offering top-tier sports programming and supporting the new generation of athletes who represent the present and future of boxing. Our goal is to bring the audience relevant, high-quality events that connect with the country’s passion for sports,” said Paco Vargas, General Manager of WAPA Deportes.

“Zayas vs. Baraou is a historic event for Puerto Rico, and we are thrilled to partner with WAPA Deportes,” said Top Rank COO Brad Jacobs. “Puerto Rican fight fans have followed Xander intently ever since he turned pro, and on Saturday, they’ll watch as he attempts to unify the WBO and WBA junior middleweight world titles.”

WAPA Deportes is available in Puerto Rico through major cable and satellite providers, including Liberty (channels 44 and 244 HD), DIRECTV (channel 657), Claro TV (channel 5), Dish (channel 27), Sling TV, and Aire Digital (4.2). Visit www.wapa.tv for more details.

In the United States, the diaspora and the Hispanic community can enjoy the Spanish-language broadcast on WAPA América beginning at 8 p.m. ET/ 5 p.m. PT. WAPA América is available as part of the Latino package of major cable and satellite providers, including Spectrum, Comcast, DIRECTV, DishLATINO, YouTube TV, and Fubo, among others.

Jorge Hidalgo, President and CEO of WAPA Media, commented: “WAPA América continues to be the connection between Puerto Ricans living in the United States and their Island. The diaspora celebrates its own, and this broadcast is a key opportunity for them to experience the achievements of their athletes firsthand and stay connected to the pride and excitement of Puerto Rican boxing from the Island.”

“I’m very happy and grateful that my fight will be broadcast live for all the people of my Isla del Encanto on WAPA Deportes and for all my Boricuas in the diaspora on WAPA América,” Zayas said. “Knowing that my people will be watching me live on national television motivates me even more to put on a great show and give it everything I have to make history this Saturday at El Choli. This one is for you.”

La Línea Deportiva will offer special coverage starting at 5:30 p.m. AST, while Noticentro and the digital platform Wapa.TV will provide special coverage of the fights on the card before, during, and after the event.

Abass Baraou and Xander Zayas took part in the official public workout ahead of their clash this Saturday for the WBA super welterweight world title. The electric atmosphere that filled San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Wednesday offered a clear preview of what is expected to unfold on fight night, when both fighters step into the ring.

Members of the local press and a strong turnout of fans gathered to witness the session, which featured not only the main-event combatants but also the rest of the fighters scheduled to compete this weekend.

Baraou, who arrived on the island just days ago for the bout, was the first to take his turn in the ring alongside his team. The reigning WBA champion went through light movement drills and sharp punch combinations, looking relaxed and focused. Baraou said he feels highly motivated and fully prepared to deliver a strong performance as he puts his title on the line.

Zayas followed, stepping into the ring to a loud ovation from the crowd. The hometown fighter appeared to be in excellent physical condition and went through several ring exercises to showcase himself in front of his fans. He spoke about how meaningful it is for him to fight in his own country and addressed the possibility of unifying titles, a goal that would further solidify his standing in the division.

Both fighters will take part in the final press conference on Thursday and will then move on to Friday’s official weigh-in ceremony, the final step before Saturday’s showdown.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (Jan. 29, 2026) — Puerto Rican star Xander Zayas has waited nearly six years for a homecoming. He returns as a world champion on the cusp of making history. 

WBO junior middleweight world champion Zayas (22-0, 13 KOs) will square off against WBA king Abass Baraou (17-1, 9 KOs) this Saturday, Jan. 31, at Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan.

In just the second unification ever held on Puerto Rican soil, the 23-year-old has the chance to become the youngest active unified champion and the first Boricua to do it on home turf. Baraou, a seasoned road warrior, is unfazed by the task at hand.

In the 10-round welterweight co-feature, Dominican contender Rohan “El Rayo” Polanco (17-0, 10 KOs) takes on Mexican veteran Christian Gomez (23-6-1, 21 KOs).

Additionally, Juanmita Lopez De Jesus (4-0, 2 KOs), the 19-year-old son of former world champion Juan Manuel “Juanma” Lopez, will face Conner Goade (8-4-2, 7 KOs) in a six-round tilt at junior bantamweight.

The undercard will also include the junior middleweight debut of Giovani Santillan (34-1, 18 KOs), as well as the return of rising Dominican middleweight Euri Cedeño (13-0-1, 12 KOs), in separate 10-rounders. Santillan will lock horns with Courtney Pennington (17-11-3, 7 KOs), while Cedeño squares off against Etoundi Michel William (16-2, 12 KOs).

Zayas-Baraou, Polanco-Gomez, the return of second-generation Puerto Rican star Juanmita Lopez De Jesus, and additional undercard action will stream for free on the Top Rank Classics FAST channel in the U.S. beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.

Zayas vs. Baraou will begin at approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

To watch on mobile or desktop, visit trboxing.co/TopRankClassics. To watch on your smart TV, check the availability of FAST channel apps and search for Top Rank Classics on The Roku Channel, Tubi, or Vizio. 

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with ICON+, Move Concerts, and Noah Assad Presents, tickets are on sale via Ticketera.com.

This is what the fighters said at Thursday’s press conference.

Xander Zayas

“This is what I have been working for since I was 5 years old. {18} years as a fighter, seven as a pro. I got a world title in my last fight at 23. I’m ready to become a unified world champion and to keep making history. This is the biggest moment of my life. I deserve to be here. I worked hard to be here. This is where I belong.”

“I’m expecting the best version of Abass Baraou. I’m expecting something I haven’t seen before. We sparred almost two years ago. But he’s a champion now. And we both have grown and learned. We’ve also experienced different things. So, I’m expecting the best version of him because he’s going to get the best version of me. That’s for sure.”

“This is the only fight {this weekend} where you’ll have two world titles on the line. It’s the only fight where you’ll see two champions putting everything on the line to become a unified champion. Tune in because there will be fireworks, and I’m going to make history one more time.”

Abass Baraou

“I go everywhere to make my dreams come true. I’ve been doing the work for a long time. Being here is amazing. And I can’t wait for Saturday night.”

“Winning the title was amazing. It was one of my favorite moments so far. I worked so hard for this moment. It was hard to get there. As you can tell, my team was happy as well. And securing that win opened up bigger opportunities, like Saturday’s fight. So I really enjoyed that moment.”

“Everyone knows we sparred. But I don’t put too much focus on it. I spar to learn. When we sparred, it was always good work. But a fight is different. Gloves are different. No headgear. It’s just me and him in the ring with no helping hand. It’s going to be way different than any sparring. I’m focused on this fight, and I’m looking forward to it.”

“I’m an experienced fighter. I have a great amateur background. And I’ve come to Puerto Rico to put it all on the line. We know that Zayas is fast and talented. So, as a boxing fan myself, I feel this is a great fight to watch. Tune in to see how I pull this off.”

Rohan Polanco

“I hope that the title opportunity comes this year. I have been fighting for some time, and I’ve been ranked for a while as well. I’ve been positioning myself among the best. So, I’m just waiting for the opportunity. I feel I am ready. I have lots of experience. I just need the opportunity.”

“I would love to fight {WBO champion} Devin Haney. I’m ranked in that organization. I think that would be the easiest fight to make. I’m ready. I’m going to beat everyone.”

Christian Gomez

“We’re going to come forward, but we’re also going to try different strategies that we worked on in camp.”

“I come from a family of boxers. Even my mother was a boxer. This sport is very important to us.”

“I think experience dictates how you perform in a fight. But also, when you see the abilities of your opponent, you also tailor your camp for that.”

Juanmita Lopez De Jesus

“This first year as a pro has been great. I’ve gotten a lot of experience. I know Conner is an experienced fighter. But I’m going to show that I’m on a different level.”

“Camp has been great. I had a cut in my last fight, so I had to wait three months to return. So, I was able to prepare more. I’m going to show that I’ve grown a lot.”

Conner Goade

“I’ve had a lot of fights that could have gone either way. But that’s alright. You’ll see what happens on Saturday night.”

“I’ve got a couple more rounds fought than him. But I also know he has more amateur fights. So, it’ll even out.”

Giovani Santillan

“This is my first time fighting at 154 pounds, and I’m excited to put on a show here in Puerto Rico. I want to show everyone that there is a new fighter in this weight class who is coming for the belts.”

“I feel good at this weight now. It shows in my training and preparation. We focused less on making the weight and more on the actual fight.”

“I have big goals for 2026. I want to fight for a world title in this new weight class.”

Euri Cedeño

“My power comes from my hard work. I always work with my mindset on destroying my opponent. That’s where it comes from.”

“Rohan {my Olympic teammate} and I never talked about fighting on the same card together. But I feel happy to be sharing this card with him. We’ve known each other since we were kids. We’ve always respected each other.”

“My opponent asked for this fight. So, I’m coming in here even more motivated because I want to show him that he took a huge risk in asking to fight me.”
 

Saturday, January 31

Top Rank Classics (5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT)

Xander Zayas vs. Abass Baraou, 12 Rounds, Zayas’ WBO and Baraou’s WBA Jr. Middleweight World Titles 

Rohan Polanco vs. Christian Gomez, 10 Rounds, WBO Intercontinental Welterweight Title

Juanmita Lopez De Jesus vs. Conner Goade, 6 rounds, Jr. Bantamweight

Carlos De Leon Castro vs. Diuhl Olguin, 6 rounds, Jr. Lightweight

Giovani Santillan vs. Courtney Pennington, 10 rounds, Jr. Middleweight
 

The José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum will host a highly anticipated super welterweight unification bout this Saturday night, as Abass Baraou and Xander Zayas collide with championship gold on the line. The World Boxing Association (WBA) champion travels to the island to face the local star, the reigning WBO titleholder, in a matchup that has captured the imagination of fans across Puerto Rico.

Saturday night will mark the main event, but the excitement has already begun with the arrival of both fighters and will continue to build throughout a week packed with promotional activities.

On Wednesday, the fighters will take part in a public workout, with media and fans in attendance. Supporters will have the chance to get up close with both protagonists as they showcase their skills inside the ring.

Thursday will feature the official press conference, while Friday will bring the weigh-in ceremony—the final step before they square off on Saturday night.

Both fighters’ styles point toward a clash filled with exchanges and sustained action, which is why this unification bout has been so eagerly awaited. Baraou will look to keep his black-and-gold momentum intact, but the challenge will be anything but easy against a Zayas who is also a champion and eager to deliver a statement performance in front of his home crowd.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (Jan. 21, 2026) — The junior middleweight title unification tilt between WBO king Xander Zayas and WBA ruler Abass Baraou — Saturday, Jan. 31, at Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan — will be available to stream for free on the Top Rank Classics FAST channel in the U.S.

The broadcast will start at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT, with the welterweight co-feature between Dominican phenom Rohan “El Rayo” Polanco (17-0, 10 KOs) and Mexican veteran Christian Gomez (23-6-1, 21 KOs) set for 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Zayas vs. Baraou will begin at approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

To watch on mobile or desktop, visit trboxing.co/TopRankClassics. To watch on your smart TV, check the availability of FAST channel apps and search for Top Rank Classics on The Roku Channel, Tubi, or Vizio. 

Zayas (22-0, 13 KOs), a San Juan native, hopes to impress the partisan fans with a historic victory. If he bests Baraou, he’ll become the first Puerto Rican boxer to unify world titles on home soil. Baraou (17-1, 9 KOs), a German pressure fighter making the first defense of his world title, has won eight straight since a disputed split decision loss to Jack Culcay. His last five bouts have come on away soil, including last August’s unanimous decision over Cuban star Yoenis Tellez in Orlando, Florida. 

The Top Rank Classics stream is also scheduled to include the following bouts:

Juanmita Lopez De Jesus (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. Conner Goade (8-4-2, 7 KOs), 6 rounds, Junior Bantamweight

Carlos De Leon Castro (6-0, 5 KOs) vs. Diuhl Olguin (17-47-7, 10 KOs), 6 rounds, Junior Lightweight

Yadriel Caban (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Jeremis Hernandez-Torres (2-2, 0 KOs), 4 rounds, Flyweight

Euri Cedeno (13-0-1, 12 KOs) vs. Etoundi Michel William (16-2, 12 KOs), 10 rounds, Middleweight

Giovani Santillan (34-1, 18 KOs) vs. Courtney Pennington (17-11-3, 7 KOs), 10 Rounds, Junior Middleweight

The matchup between Abass Baraou and Xander Zayas is beginning to heat up with just 10 days remaining before fight night. On January 31, both fighters will step into the ring at the Coliseo José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to unify the WBA and WBO titles.

Germany’s Baraou will be making the first defense of his WBA crown, which he captured last August with a victory over Yoenis Téllez in Orlando, Florida. The 31-year-old entered that bout as the underdog but delivered a standout performance, claiming the black-and-gold belt against the odds.

Now he faces Zayas, the reigning WBO champion and a Puerto Rico native who enjoyed a strong amateur career, highlighted by a U.S. Youth National Championship in 2018. At just 23 years old, Zayas is already a world titleholder.

In his most recent outing, Zayas defeated Jorge García to secure the WBO world championship, and like Baraou, this unification bout marks his first title defense. He understands that a victory would elevate his career to another level and is eager to clear this demanding hurdle.

With only 10 days to go, anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a memorable night. Baraou enters with a record of 17 wins, 1 loss, and 9 knockouts, while Zayas remains unbeaten at 22-0, with 13 victories coming inside the distance.

MIAMI, Fla. (Jan. 15, 2026) —WBA junior middleweight world champion Abass Barou is once again embracing his road warrior status.

Baraou, who was born in Germany and is of Togolese descent, will attempt to unify titles against Puerto Rican sensation and WBO champ Xander Zayas on Saturday, Jan. 31, at Coliseo de Puerto Rico in Zayas’ hometown of San Juan. The 31-year-old believes his ability to adapt, not the partisan Zayas crowd, will dictate how the fight unfolds.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with ICON+, Move Concerts, and Noah Assad Presents, tickets are on sale and can be purchased via Ticketera.com.

Baraou (17-1, 9 KOs) entered the paid ranks in 2018 after a standout amateur career, spending much of the next seven years plying his trade, mostly in Europe. The groundwork paid off last August in Orlando, Florida, when he overwhelmed then-WBA interim champion Yoenis Tellez, scoring a final-round knockdown en route to a unanimous points verdict. The following month, Baraou was elevated to full champion after Terence Crawford vacated the title.

Zayas (22-0, 13 KOs) signed with Top Rank at 16 and became a world champion less than two months shy of his 23rd birthday by decisioning Mexican puncher Jorge Garcia last July. He now headlines only the second-ever title unification fight on Puerto Rican soil.

Following a recent training session in Miami, this is what Baraou had to say:

“I haven’t shown what I’m capable of yet. I have a lot of experience from my amateur career. I know how to adapt. If I have to fight more technically, I can. I know how to box. However, most of the time, I break down fighters. I can do that best. But it also depends on the situation. I can also show more skills.”

“Coming forward is something I do well. Many fighters have issues with pressure. I haven’t seen a fighter who can stand a chance with mine yet. So, I know I can bring a lot of pressure in this fight. But we’ll see. That might be the key in this fight. We’ll see on fight night.”

“Becoming a champion has made me hungrier. It hasn’t changed my personal life. I’m still focused on boxing. But seeing all the opportunities and the fights that can be made is amazing. It’s made me more focused and hungrier.”

“Xander is very talented. He has a lot of skills. I’ve shared the ring with him many times. We’ve sparred a couple of times, so I know he has good footwork and lots of skills. But I’ve put the work in, and I’m ready to go to Puerto Rico and become a unified champion.”

“I will always be myself in the ring. Even if the fight were in Germany, I’d have the same mindset. I don’t care where the fight is. There’s a man I have to beat to accomplish my goals. The fight is in Puerto Rico, but it doesn’t add more pressure.”

DAVIE, Fla. (Jan. 14, 2026) —Xander Zayas is focused on making history.

The 23-year-old Puerto Rican star and WBO junior middleweight world champion will face Germany’s relentless WBA king Abass Baraou in a unification showdown on Saturday, Jan. 31, at Coliseo de Puerto Rico in his hometown of San Juan.

Zayas-Baraou marks just the second unification clash ever held on the island and gives Zayas the opportunity to become the youngest active unified champ and the first Boricua to do it on home turf.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with ICON+, Move Concerts, and Noah Assad Presents, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased via Ticketera.com.

Zayas (22-0, 13 KOs) claimed a pair of regional titles in 2022 with wins over Mexican veterans Elias Espadas and Alexis Salazar. He made six defenses in his path to securing the No. 1 spot in the WBO rankings. He realized his lifelong dream by outpointing Jorge Garcia last July to capture the title, becoming the youngest world champion at the time. Baraou (17-1, 9 KOs) turned professional in 2018 after a decorated amateur career. He seized the WBA interim title with an upset of Cuban phenom Yoenis Tellez last August and was elevated to full champion the following month. Baraou closed the show against Tellez with a furious 12th-round assault that culminated in a dramatic knockdown.Following a recent training session at head trainer Javiel Centeno’s Sweatbox Boxing Gym, this is what Zayas had to say:

“This is the best opportunity of my career, not just because of what’s at stake, but because I’m coming back home in front of my people. It’s been five years, and I’ve wanted to return ever since, but I knew I had to wait for the right moment. Now it’s here on January 31, when I return as a world champion.”

“I want to be the first Puerto Rican to unify titles on the island. That’s really important to me because I want to keep making history and building my legacy. ”

“Everybody is used to seeing champions take softer touches for their first defense. But because I’m going back to my island, I needed to do something big and give something special to the fans. Baraou is also making his first defense, so we’ll see two young fighters who want to show that big unification fights are still possible.”

“Baraou is a good, aggressive fighter. People underestimate him because he’s not well known in the United States, but I’ve shared the ring with him several times in sparring. I know what he brings, and he knows what I bring, so it’s going to be a big test for both of us on January 31.”

“We’ve prepared for a warrior, someone who won’t stop coming forward. We know he’s going to throw a lot of punches. He’s not a better boxer, faster, smarter, or stronger, but he does have a lot of heart.”

“This is the best camp of my career. I’ve grown so much physically and mentally. I can see it in how I look when I spar, how I feel during training, and how hard I’m pushing myself. It’s time to make history!”

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (Dec. 18, 2025) — Rohan “El Rayo” Polanco, the Dominican welterweight with championship aspirations in 2026, looks to kick off the new year with a statement-making performance.

Polanco will take on Mexican puncher Christian Gomez in a 10-round battle on Saturday, Jan. 31, at Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Polanco-Gomez will serve as the co-feature to the junior middleweight world title unification showdown between WBO champ Xander Zayas and WBA king Abass Baraou.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with ICON+, Move Concerts, and Noah Assad Presents, tickets are on sale and can be purchased via Ticketera.com.

Polanco (17-0, 10 KOs) represented his country at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and signed with Top Rank the following year. Initially campaigning as a junior welterweight, he stopped the likes of Keith Hunter and Cesar Francis before moving to 147 pounds. Ranked in the top 10 by the WBO and IBF, he is closing in on a world title shot following a 2025 run that has included victories over Fabian Maidana and Quinton Randall. 

Polanco said, “I’m not coming to play on January 31. I’m coming to send a strong message to the division. Fighting as the co-main event at Coliseo de Puerto Rico is a great opportunity that I intend to take advantage of. I represent Dominican boxing. I’m hungry, fearless, and determined to get closer to a world title opportunity.”

Gomez (23-6-1, 21 KOs), a 12-year pro with 30 fights, has earned nearly all of his victories by knockout. His biggest test came in May 2022, when he went the distance with Uzbek phenom Shakhram Giyasov. The 32-year-old veteran is coming off consecutive decision losses to Nicklaus Flaz and Alberto Palmetta.

The undercard will also include the junior middleweight debut of Giovani Santillan (34-1, 18 KOs), as well as the return of rising Dominican middleweight Euri Cedeño (13-0-1, 12 KOs), in separate 10-rounders. 

Santillan, a former No. 1 welterweight contender, faces Courtney Pennington. The San Diego native bounced back from his May 2024 loss to Brian Norman Jr. by defeating Fredrick Lawson and Angel Beltran. The Brooklyn-born Pennington (17-11-3, 7 KOs) is a 13-year pro who has given stern tests to the likes of American Olympian Charles Conwell and Canadian contender Custio Clayton.

Cedeño steps up to take on Ivory Coast native Etoundi Michel William (16-2, 12 KOs). The 26-year-old signed with Top Rank in May and has won his last six via the fast route. William broke onto the scene with a victory over eventual world title challenger Jorge Garcia in January 2023, remaining undefeated until an October 2024 loss to Mexico’s Jose Miguel Borrego. He last fought in June, dropping a 10-round decision to top American contender Troy Isley.

Additional undercard fights will be announced in due course.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (Nov. 14, 2025) — For the first time in more than 15 years, a title unification bout is set for Puerto Rico. And the island’s newest star hopes to put on a show for the ages.

Tickets for the junior middleweight title showdown between WBO champion Xander Zayas and WBA king Abass Baraou — Saturday, Jan. 31 at Coliseo de Puerto in San Juan — are ON SALE NOW and can be purchased via Ticketera.com.

Zayas (22-0, 13 KOs), who hails from San Juan, is making only his second professional appearance on the island after signing with Top Rank as a 16-year-old in 2019. Baraou (17-1, 9 KOs) is an experienced road warrior who has won eight straight since a split decision loss to Jack Culcay. Like Zayas, he’ll be making the maiden defense of his title.

The Coliseo de Puerto Rico opened in 2004. Top Rank promoted the first boxing event at the venue that September, when Miguel Cotto knocked out Kelson Pinto to win the vacant WBO junior welterweight world title. It will now host the second unification bout on Puerto Rican shores. The first was the 2010 Fight of the Year between Mexico’s Giovani Segura and Puerto Rican icon Ivan Calderon.

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (Nov. 12, 2025) —WBO junior middleweight world champion Xander Zayas asked for a world championship homecoming, and now he has an opportunity to make some two-belt history on the island.

Zayas (22-0, 13 KOs) will fight WBA king Abass Baraou (17-1, 9 KOs) in a title unification tilt on Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan. Zayas-Baraou will be just the second unification bout held on Puerto Rican soil. 

Zayas and Baraou, who have sparred dozens of rounds in South Florida, reunited at Wednesday’s kickoff press conference in San Juan as newly minted world champions. Baraou upset Yoenis Tellez in August to become the WBA interim champion and was elevated to full champion after Terence Crawford vacated the title. Zayas captured the vacant WBO crown in July with a one-sided decision over Mexico’s Jorge Garcia.

Joining the champions at the presser was junior bantamweight prospect Juanmita Lopez De Jesus (4-0, 2 KOs), who will see action on the undercard in a six-rounder. His father, former two-division world champion Juan Manuel “Juanma” Lopez, fought at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico five times during his career.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with ICON+, Move Concerts, and Noah Assad Presents, tickets go on sale Friday. Nov. 14, at 10 a.m. AST/9 a.m. ET via Ticketera.com.

This is what Zayas, Baraou, and Juanmita had to say.Xander Zayas

“It’s an honor to represent where I’m from, to represent my people, to represent Puerto Rico, and to put the pride of the island where it belongs, at the top. If you can dream it, you can do it. That’s my message to them. We come from the same place, and there’s nothing we can’t do if we put in the work and we put the dedication in.”

“January 31 will be the biggest night of my life, but {the win over Garcia} was really special. You only become a world champion for the first time once, and that was my moment.”

On previously sparring Baraou

“Sparring is sparring, and you cannot mix that up with a fight. It’s completely different. There are completely different things at stake for both of us, but I have respect for Abass and his team. They’ve always been great people to us and have always been willing to help us when we needed help. We were able to help them every time they needed a hand, so it’s a very exciting fight for both of us, a lot on the line for both of us. Our first title defense, to be for a unified championship, I feel like it’s very special. Like he said, we’re writing history.”

On the previous boxing legends from Puerto Rico

“Those legends wrote history for Puerto Rico. They are legends in the sport and on the island. And for me, to represent Puerto Rico at the highest level and bring glory to my people means the world to me. That’s what I do it for. I do it for my people, my family, my team, and I’m really excited and happy to be here January 31.”

On winning his first world title belt

“After the fight, I slept with it for like a week. It’s everything that I dreamed of, everything that I worked for, everything that I dedicated my life to. We’re here to put on a show for Puerto Rico and on the island. There’s no better way of doing it than unifying and rewriting history one more time.”

Abass Baraou

On his title-winning effort over Tellez

“That was a special fight for me. I knew I was going into enemy territory. I’m a man on a mission. I just had to empty the tank and find a little bit more strength to put him down as well. I don’t know where that came from — don’t ask me — but I’m determined when I’m on a mission. I’m willing to do any job.”

On fighting Zayas in Puerto Rico

“I’m the man for the job. It’s not the first time I’m doing this. I’m on a mission, and I’m willing to go anywhere to accomplish my dream, my goals. Coming to Puerto Rico to face Xander was an easy decision for me to make. It’s a hard fight, a great challenge as well, and that’s what I’m looking for. We’re sitting here, both of us, writing history. How can you say no to that?”

On sparring Zayas

“Sparring is different than a fight. It might help, it might not. We will find out on fight night. Xander is a great talent. Respect to him for taking this fight. It’s a risky fight for both of us, of course. He and his people are great people. There’s nothing bad I can say about them. We exchanged words. We said we’d meet at the top, and we didn’t know it would come so fast.”

“I’m looking for great challenges. Going into my last fight, I didn’t look past it. I just wanted to beat the guy. Then, Xander came into the ring, and it came to my mind that it would be a great challenge. Then, I was told that I had to go to Puerto Rico, and that was an extra motivation. Also, writing history for Germany… everywhere I look, I get motivated. I come here, I see the arena, and it’s going to be full of Puerto Ricans. I’m fully prepared for that. I can’t wait for fight night. It’s like music to my ears.”

Juanmita Lopez De Jesus

“I always dreamed of fighting at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico. So, it’s an opportunity to bring the people who enjoyed this type of fight, like Cotto and ‘Tito’ Trinidad. It’s going to be a great night for Puerto Rico.”

“We want to do the same thing {as Zayas} and be a young world champion, make everyone from Puerto Rico proud. That’s the goal.”

“My father is my favorite fighter, so I want to be like him in the future. Be a solid champion, and that’s the goal. Be like him and make my last name proud.” 

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (Nov. 10, 2025) — Puerto Rican star Xander Zayas, boxing’s youngest male world champion, will kick off 2026 with a historic home soil event. The 23-year-old WBO junior middleweight world champion will face WBA king Abass Baraou in a title unification fight on Saturday, Jan. 31, at Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

This will be only the second title unification bout to take place on Puerto Rican soil, following the 2010 light flyweight battle between Ivan Calderon and Giovani Segura. 

The Coliseo de Puerto Rico first hosted boxing with Miguel Cotto’s knockout over Kelson Pinto in 2004 and has since hosted world title events featuring Puerto Rican icons such as Calderon, Juan Manuel “Juanma” Lopez, and Roman Martinez.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with ICON+, Move Concerts, and Noah Assad Presents, ticket on-sale information will be announced soon.

“From the moment Xander Zayas won his world title, it was clear that his first title defense had to take place in Puerto Rico,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “The fact that he’ll be facing a fellow champion in front of a packed arena in San Juan makes it that much more special. The Puerto Rican fans are passionate and loyal and deserve to see their champion return home. This is not a routine title defense. Abass Baraou is a determined champion, an experienced road warrior who will embrace the challenge of fighting on Xander’s home turf.”

Zayas (22-0, 13 KOs) rose from teenage prodigy to world champion before his 23rd birthday. He captured his first regional strap in August 2022 with a fifth-round stoppage of Mexican veteran Elias Espadas, then added another belt that December by outpointing Alexis Salazar. After multiple defenses, he climbed to the No. 1 spot in the WBO rankings and faced upset-minded Jorge Garcia in July at his home away from home in New York City. Zayas earned a one-sided decision just six weeks before turning 23 and less than six years after turning pro as a 17-year-old in Reno, Nevada.

“On January 31, we’ll fulfill another dream. This time, I’ll be fighting on my island,” Zayas said. “I’m going to unify two world titles in front of my people at Coliseo de Puerto Rico. We’re going to make history together. See you there!”

Baraou (17-1, 9 KOs) spent his early childhood in his family’s native Togo before returning to Germany at age nine. A standout amateur, he won gold at the 2017 European Championships and bronze at that year’s World Championships, where he lost to two-time Olympic Gold medalist Roniel Iglesias. He turned pro in 2018 and has won eight since his lone defeat, a 2020 split decision loss to former world title challenger Jack Culcay.  His breakout moment came in August when he upset Cuba’s Yoenis Tellez to capture the WBA interim title, scoring a knockdown in the closing seconds of the 12th round. He was elevated to full champion the following month after Terence Crawford vacated the title. Barou has won five consecutive fights outside of Germany, including a 2024 decision over Sam Eggington in England to capture the European title.

“Xander is a great talent, and I give him full credit for stepping up and accepting this fight. Not everyone would take that risk, especially at this stage, but that’s what makes this matchup special. He has his country behind him, and I respect that, because I know what it means to carry that responsibility into the ring,” Baraou said. “I’m preparing to go into Puerto Rico, bring some real heat, and show the world that I’m a true force in this division. I’m not coming just to show up. I’m coming to make a statement, leave with another belt, and maybe even earn a few new Puerto Rican fans on the way out. When it’s all said and done, the world will know who the top dog at 154 really is.”

The undercard will feature Puerto Rican second-generation hopeful Juanmita Lopez De Jesus (4-0, 2 KOs), the 19-year-old son of the aforementioned “Juanma.” He will see action in a six-round junior bantamweight tilt against an opponent to be named.

Juanmita made his pro debut in February with a highlight-reel first-round knockout. He fought at home in April before returning on the undercard of Zayas’ world title triumph in July. Juanmita went the six-round distance for the first time in September, outpointing Luis Morales. His father notched five early-round knockouts at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico, including a pair of world title defenses.

Juanmita said, “I am incredibly thankful to God for the chance to fight at home once again and to be able to showcase my talent in front of my people. On January 31, we will show the world that Puerto Rico has a great prospect coming straight from ‘The Island of Enchantment’ in ‘Juanmita’ López.”

SAMARA, OBLAST – Pavel Sosulin produced a breathtaking performance to blow Jorge Fortea away inside two rounds, picking up the IBA Intercontinental super-welterweight title after an electrifying night of action at WINLINE IBA Pro 12 in Samara.

Entering the contest as the number two-ranked super-welterweight by the World Boxing Association (WBA), Sosulin wasted little time in staking his claim for a shot at Abass Baraou’s World Championship belt as he ripped through the defences of Fortea with ease; folding the Spaniard in half after a perfectly-placed right hand to the solar plexus in the second round.

Sosulin (13-0, 7 KOs) flew out of the blocks in typically aggressive fashion, targeting the mid-section of Fortea (25-5-1, 10 KOs) with a series of spiteful hooks that had the Valencia man backing up in a one-sided opener.

With the writing seemingly on the wall at the start of round two, Sosulin would close the show in emphatic fashion, uncorking a sickening body-shot finish that brought the raucous Samara crowd to their feet.

Following the victory, Sosulin wasted little time in calling for a shot at WBA champion Baraou.

“Abass Baraou: you’re next!” Sosulin beamed after booking a career-best win.

“I’m the next WBA title contender – and the title belongs to Abass Baraou, so that’s why he is next. I hope in 2026 I’ll get a title shot, I won’t let you down!”

On his stunning stoppage victory, Sosulin said: “We didn’t go out looking for the knockout: it just happened. My opponent was very sharp and very mobile, but I was able to land a punch that we were preparing and we got the job done.”

IBA Pro Promoter Al Siesta also confirmed the pair would be pushing for a shot at the world title in 2026, with Siesta believing it is only a matter of time before the former Russian amateur star picked up championship gold.

“That was a performance that will send shockwaves throughout the entire 154lbs division,” said Siesta.

“[Jorge] Fortea is a tough, rugged contender who has fought all over the world: but nobody has handled him with such ease. Even Xander Zayas [current WBO champion] could not deal with Fortea so devastatingly. That was a massive statement!”

On a potential world title shot for Sosulin, Siesta was optimistic a bout could take place in the first half of 2026.

“Pavel [Sosulin] is ready for a world title now, 100%. I hear people say Baraou will fight Zayas – brilliant. We are ready to fight the winner in 2026 – no problem. Sosulin was ranked number two by the WBA and after that performance, it has to be a big fight next for him. 

“Baraou, Zayas, Ennis, Ortiz – guys, we are ready to fight the best! Give me a call!”

In the chief support of the evening, unbeaten light-heavyweight star Ali Izmailov returned to the ring with a hard-fought unanimous decision win over rough and ready Iranian foe Meysam Gheshlaghi.

In a back-and-forth bout that was high on drama and full of action, Izmailov’s composure and sharp punch-picking saw him awarded the unanimous decision victory via scores of 97-93 (x2) & 96-94.

Following eight months of inactivity, Izmailov (14-0, 9 KOs) would settle into the fight as the rounds progressed, but the 32-year-old was forced to work hard for victory by the game Gheshlaghi (5-3-1, 4 KOs), who continued to march forward in a bid to upset the heavily-favoured home fighter.

Nevertheless, the result saw Izmailov extend his unbeaten record, with the Malgobek-native now setting his sights on gatecrashing the world scene in a stacked light-heavyweight division.

Elsewhere on the card, Pavel Fedorov returned from his first career defeat with a comprehensive six round decision win over Adilet Kurmetov in their six round IBA Pro contest.

Fedorov (3-0, 1 KO & 6-1 IBA Pro) used his superior boxing skill to outwork Kazakhstan’s Kurmetov (5-1, 3 KOs & 0-1 IBA Pro) from the outside, booking a comfortable win on the judges scorecards and banishing memories of his stoppage loss to Georgii Chelokhsaev in March.

Paris 2024 Olympic bronze medallist Davlat Boltaev continued his blistering start to life in the professional ranks as he made quick work of former world title challenger Dilan Prašovi?, dropping his man twice en route to a highlight reel, first round knockout victory.

Boltaev (5-0, 3 KOs) is considered by many to be one of the hottest prospects in world boxing, and the Tajik star lived up to his lofty billing in a sharp-shooting display that saw Prašovi? (21-8, 18 KOs) simply overwhelmed from the opening bell. 

In arguably the standout fight of the evening, Uzbekistan’s Ulugbek Sobirov picked up the WBA Asia East super-middleweight title with an upset win over Egdard Moskvichev in their highly-entertaining ten round slugfest.

After scoring a thudding knockdown in the opening round, courtesy of a counter left-hook, Sobirov (17-5, 10 KOs) would remain a step ahead of Moskvichev (193-2, 7 KOs) for the majority of the fight, surviving a late surge from the Russian to claim a deserved unanimous decision victory on the judges scorecards.

Heavyweight pair Basir Abakarov and Denis Gubarev produced an entertaining IBA Pro contest, with both men landing a series of heavy blows in a competitive six round showcase.

In the end, it would be the cleaner shots of Abakarov (11-0, 9 KOs & 1-0 IBA Pro) that would see him get the nod on the cards, much to the disappointment of fellow Russian opponent Gubarev (4-2, 2 KOs & 0-1 IBA Pro).

Russian super-welterweight prospect Igor Sviridchenkov sparkled over six with a dominant display against Congolese challenger Mardochee Kuvesa.

Utilising his superior skill-set and mastery of distance, Sviridchenkov (2-0, 1 KO) controlled proceedings throughout, stinging the teak-tough Kuvesa (17-9-1, 2 KOs) several times en route to a comfortable unanimous decision victory.

Featherweight talent Ruslan Belousov battled to a hard-fought six round majority decision win over fellow Russian Amin Abdullin in their IBA Pro clash.

Yankiel Rivera and Angelino Cordova fought to a 12-round majority draw in a WBA Flyweight World Title bout at the Caribe Rpyale Resort in Orlando, Florida.

In round three, Cordova was cut over the left eye dur to his own headbutt. In round six, he was deducted a point for a head butt.

Cordova won a card 115-111 wile two cards were even at 113-113.

Rivera, 111.6 lbs of Toa Alta, PR is 7-0-1. Cordova, 111.4 lbs of Caracas, VEN is 19-0-2,

Baraou Scores Late Knockdown; Wins WBA Interim Super Welterweight Title over Tellez

Abass Baraou won the WBA Interim Super Welterweight Title with a 12-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Yoenis Tellez

Baraou sealed the title and the fight be dropping Tellez in the 12th and final round after landing a big uppercut that staggered Tellez and dropping him with a left hand.

Baraou landed 214 of 745 punches. Tellez was 205 of 674.

Baraou, 153.4 lbs of Berlin, GER won by scores of 117-110, 116-111 and 115-112 and is now 17-1. Tellez, 153.4 lbs of Stafford, TX via Santiago, CUB is 10-1,

Han Gets Dropped But Decisions Angel to Retain WBA Lightweight Title

Stephanie Han made the first defense of the WBA Lightweight title with a 10-eound unanimous decision over Paulina Angel.

25 seconds into the fight, Angel landed a right hand that put Han on the canvas. In round four, Han suffered a cut over her left eye towards her forehead.

Han, 134.1 lbs of El Paso, TX won by scores of 98-91 on all cards and is 11-0. Angel, 134.2 lbs of Medellin, COL is 7-2-2.

Bahdi Decisions Gutierrez

Lucas Bahdi won a 12-round unanimous decision over former world champion Roger Gutierrez in a lightweight bout.

In round six, Bahdi uncorked a big right hand that uncorked Gutierrez to the canvas. In round eight, Gutierrez began to bleed under his lef eye.

Bahdi, 134.8 lbs of Niagara Falls, CAN won by scores of 117-110, 116-111 and 115-112 and is now 20-0. Gutierrez, 135 lbs of Venezuela is 24-7-1.

Perez Decisions Avilla

Ariel Perez remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Chris Avila in a light heavyweight bout.

Perez landed 111 of 320 punches. Avila was 75 of 302.

Perez, 174 lbs of Tampa won by scores of 59-55 and 58-56 twice and is now 8-0. Avila, 172.8 lbs of Stockton, CA is 6-2.

Jasmine Artiga retained the WBA Super Flyweight title with a 3rd round stoppage over Linn Sandstrom.

In round three, Artiga landed a hard flurry of punches with Sandstrom covering up and the fight was stopped at 1:01.

Artiga, 114.2 lbs of Tampa is 14-0-1 with seven knockouts. Sandstrom, 114.6 lbs of Waterloo, AUS via Sweden is 10-4-3.

Jamaine Ortiz stopped Ambiorix Bautista in an eight-round junior welterweight bout.

In round three, Ortiz landed a right hand that sent Bautista to the canvas. It seemed like Bautista may have hurt his hand. Ortiz then landed a body shot that put Bautista to the canvas and the fight was stopped at 1:32,

Ortiz, 143.6 lbs of Worcester, MA is 20-2-1 with 10 knockouts. Bautista, 138.8 lbs is now 19-3-1.

Nat Dove beat down Randee Lynn Morales and scored a fifth round stoppage in a six-round flyweight bout.

The time of the stoppage was 1:50 for Dovem 11.6 lbs of Philadelphia who is now 6-0-1 with two knockouts. Vazquez, 117.8 lbs of Rio Rancho, NM is 5-6.

Jocelyn Camarillo won a four-round unanimous decision over Augistina Vazquez in a light flyweight bout.

Camarillo landed 101 of 254 punches. Vazquez was 62 of 221.

Camarillo, 107.6 lbs of Indio, CA won by scores of 40-36 and 39-37 twice and is now 5-0. Vazquez, 106.4 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 4-5-2.

ORLANDO, FL (August 19, 2025) – WBA Super Welterweight Interim Champion, Yoenis “El Bandolero” Tellez (10-0, 7 KOs), has arrived in Orlando after an exhausting training camp. He will be defending his WBA title against Abass Baraou (16-1, 9 KOs), this Saturday August 23, 2025, on the MVP Fight Night card at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The 12-round co-main event bout will be televised live worldwide on DAZN. Tickets on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.

Here is what Tellez, who is co-promoted with Boxlab Promotions and Warriors Boxing, had to say about his recent training camp, his matchup with Baraou, defeating is WBA interim title, and more.

Téllez, originally from Santiago de Cuba and now fighting out of Stafford, Texas, knows he’s facing one of the toughest challenges of his career, but he welcomes the test with confidence. “Abass Baraou is a strong, technical fighter with a lot of heart, but I’ve never been afraid of tough opponents. Every fight I take is about proving I belong at the very top. On August 23, he’s going to find out that I’m not just defending a belt — I’m defending everything I’ve worked for since the day I left Cuba.”

Sharpened by an intense training camp, Téllez feels he’s more prepared than ever to deliver a statement performance. “This camp pushed me to the edge. Every day was about pushing to the limit and finding a new level in myself. I’ve sacrificed everything to be ready for this moment. My team has me sharper, stronger, and hungrier than I’ve ever been — and the results will show on fight night.”

For Téllez, the belt is more than hardware — it’s a symbol of the journey and the battles he’s endured. “Defending my WBA Interim title means the everything to me because it’s proof that dreams can’t be broken when you refuse to quit. It’s about showing that I’m not just holding this belt — I’m building toward being the true, undisputed world champion at 154.”

Téllez knows the DAZN spotlight is an opportunity to show the world he’s ready for the next level. “Fighting on MVP’s Fight Night card is the kind of stage every fighter wants. The lights, the cameras, the world watching on DAZN — it’s my chance to send a message. A win here doesn’t just move me forward, it puts the whole division on notice— Yoenis Téllez is here, and I’m coming for every champion at super welterweight.”

Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, is confident that Téllez is on the path to becoming one of the sport’s brightest stars. “Yoenis Téllez has everything you want in a future world champion — skill, heart, and the will to fight anyone, anywhere. Watching his rise has been incredible, and I know he’s only getting better. I believe this fight will show the world that Téllez is destined to be a star in the super welterweight division.”

ORLANDO, FL (August 5, 2025) – WBA Super Welterweight Interim Champion, Yoenis “El Bandolero” Tellez (10-0, 7 KOs), originally from Santiago de Cuba and now fighting out of Stafford, Texas, will defend his title against Germany’s Abass Baraou (16-1, 9 KOs) in a 12-round bout on the MVP Fight Night card at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. The event will be televised live worldwide on DAZN. Tickets on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.

Tellez, one of boxing’s fastest-rising stars, is coming off a career-defining performance against former world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams. On March 1, 2025, at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, Tellez dominated the seasoned veteran to capture the WBA Interim Super Welterweight title, cementing his place among the division’s elite.

Now, he turns his focus to the dangerous and highly skilled Baraou, who represents the toughest challenge yet in his young career. “Beating Julian Williams gave me a lot of confidence, but I’m not satisfied,” said Tellez, who is co-promoted by Boxlab Promotions and Warriors Boxing. “I learned a lot from that fight, and I’m bringing that momentum into the ring against Baraou. He’s a talented fighter, and I respect what he’s done in his career. But on fight night, I’m going to show why I’m the champion.”

A victory over Baraou could set the stage for Tellez to be elevated to the WBA Regular Champion status—a position currently held by boxing legend Terence Crawford. “This fight is a major step for me,” Tellez continued. “When I win, I’ll be in position to fight as the Regular Champion. That means big fights, big opportunities, and a chance to keep proving I’m the best at 154 pounds.”

For the second time in less than six months, Tellez will be showcased on DAZN, giving fans worldwide a front-row seat to his journey. “Fighting on DAZN again is huge for me,” Tellez added. “It’s a global platform, and I want to keep building my name, so everyone knows who Yoenis Tellez is.”

Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, articulated his enthusiasm about Tellez’s trajectory and the significance of this fight. “Yoenis has all the tools to be a superstar,” Piedra said. “His win over Julian Williams proved he belongs at the top, and a victory against Baraou will put him in line for the WBA Regular title. It’s been incredible working alongside Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian at Most Valuable Promotions—our shared vision for Yoenis’ career is paying off, and the fans are seeing something special unfold.”

This event is brought to you by Most Valuable Promotions in association with Boxlab Promotions. Doors open at 5:00 pm ET with the first bout beginning at 6:00 pm ET. Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com. 

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – July 23, 2025 – Today, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) announced additional bouts for the upcoming MVP Fight Night on Saturday, August 23 as part of MVP’s back-2-back events at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. MVP Fight Night will stream live globally as part of the DAZN subscription package. In the co-main event, Warriors Boxing and Boxlab Promotions’ Cuban sensation and WBA interim super welterweight world champion Yoenis “El Bandolero” Tellez (10-0, 7 KOs) will face the WBA’s #1 ranked super welterweight and European super welterweight champion, Abass Baraou (16-1, 9 KOs) in a 12-round WBA interim super welterweight world title fight at 154 lbs. Also on the main card, MVP’s new signee, WBA lightweight world champion Stephanie Han (10-0, 3 KOs), will defend her title in a 10-round women’s championship bout at 135lbs against 24-year-old Colombian challenger Paulina Angel (7-1-2, 3 KOs). Headlining the preliminary card in a 10 round women’s world championship bout at 115lbs will be Tampa, Florida’s reigning WBA super flyweight world champion Jasmine “The Animal” Artiga (13-0-1, 6 KOs), making her first title defense against challenger Linn Sandstrom (10-3-3, 2 KOs).

MVP Fight Night will be headlined by MVP’s Puerto Rican Olympian Yankiel “El Doctorcito” Rivera (7-0, 3 KOs), ranked the #1 WBA, #5 WBC, and #7 WBO contender at 112lbs vs. WBO international flyweight titleholder Angelino “Huracan” Cordova (19-0-1, 12 KOs) in a 12-round bout at 112 lbs for the WBA interim flyweight world title. Also on the main card will be Boxlab Promotions’ and CES Boxing’s Puerto Rican standout Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (19-2-1, 9 KOs) vs. Calgary, Alberta, Canada’s powerhouse Steve “The Dragon” Claggett (39-8-2, 27 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight bout contested at 140 lbs for the WBA Continental USA title. Tickets for MVP Fight Night are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

In the co-main event of MVP Fight Night, Warriors Boxing and Boxlab Promotions’ Cuban sensation and WBA interim super welterweight world champion Yoenis “El Bandolero” Tellez (10-0, 7 KOs) will put his undefeated record and title on the line in a high-stakes 12-round showdown at 154 lbs against the WBA’s #1 ranked super welterweight fighter and European super welterweight champion, Abass Baraou (16-1, 9 KOs). Tellez, from Stafford, Texas by way of Santiago de Cuba, Cuba, most recently took a unanimous decision win over Julian Williams on the undercard of Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach in March 2025. He will now face his toughest test yet against Baraou, a seasoned German prospect who brings world-class experience and precision to the ring. Baraou most recently won by unanimous decision after defending his European super welterweight title against Macaulay McGowan in June 2024. 

A proud Korean-American and El Paso, Texas native, Stephanie Han (10-0, 3 KOs) has elevated her boxing career to new heights while juggling the roles of devoted mother of two, including her special needs daughter with Nicolaides-Baraitser Syndrome, serving as an eight-year veteran of the El Paso Police Department, and beauty pageant competitor for Miss Sun City and Miss Texas. She launched her amateur boxing journey in July 2006, compiling a winning record before stepping away from the sport in April 2011. A decade later, she returned to boxing after helping her sister, former IBF featherweight world champion Jennifer Han, train to take on Katie Taylor. She made a powerful return to the ring in October 2021 with a unanimous decision win over Isabel Garcia. Remaining undefeated, Han quickly rose through the ranks, most recently delivering a dominant knockout victory over Hannah Terlep to claim the vacant WBA lightweight world title. In her promotional debut under MVP banner, Han is now poised to defend her title and further establish herself as one of the premier forces in women’s lightweight boxing against Paulina Angel (7-1-2, 3 KOs). The 24-year-old Angel is a top-ranked WBA Latin American contender and WBA FEDELATIN champion, coming to the ring from Medellin, Colombia. Angel will challenge for her first world title on Saturday, August 23, looking to prove herself in her most difficult test to date. She most recently earned a UD win over Johen Paola Gonzalez in February 2025.

In the preliminary card headliner, WBA super flyweight world champion and Tampa, Florida native Jasmine “The Animal” Artiga will make her first title defense against challenger Linn Sandstrom (10-3-3, 2 KOs). Artiga returns to the Most Valuable Prospects series after her sensational first round TKO of Nancy Franco at Most Valuable Prospects 5 in February 2024. Following the bout, the undefeated Artiga made a quick rise to the top of the division, most recently contesting for the WBA super flyweight world title in March 2025. Artiga successfully outpointed Mexico’s Regina Chavez by majority decision to become the new WBA world champion at 115lbs. Her opponent, the 33-year-old Sandstrom comes to the ring from Waterloo, Sydney, Australia by way of Vaxjo, Sweden, ready to enter her second challenge for WBA world honors on Saturday, August 23. Sandstrom first contested for the belt against former title holder Clara Lescurat in April 2024, facing a decision loss, and now looks to prove herself against Artiga. She most recently defeated Yoselin Fernandez in March 2025 to earn the WBA Gold and IBF International titles at 115lbs. 

“Our biggest MVP fight card not featuring Jake Paul or Amanda Serrano is happening Saturday, August 23 in Orlando, live on DAZN,” said Nakisa Bidarian and Jake Paul, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “Yankiel Rivera, Yoenis Tellez, Jamaine Ortiz, Stephanie Han and Jasmine Artiga on one card, all in tough matchups, is going to be non-stop action all night. We’re proud to follow up Most Valuable Prospects 14 with this lineup as part of our first back-2-back weekend with over 20 fights.”

Caribe Royale is proud to bring championship boxing back to Central Florida alongside MVP,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions and Managing Director of the Caribe Royale Resort. “This amazing card featuring two world title bouts and two interim world championships is unprecedented for Florida. We look forward to a spectacular weekend of boxing action for locals and visitors alike. This is another way in which Caribe Royale has worked to become a center of entertainment in Orlando. We look forward to seeing everyone for these events!”

Most Valuable Prospects 14 on Friday, August 22 will precede the Saturday, August 23 MVP Fight Night as part of MVP’s first back-2-back weekend. Most Valuable Prospects 14 will be headlined by a 10-round featherweight bout at 126lbs between MVP’s top-15 WBA and WBO contender, Puerto Rican Puerto Rican National Team star Jan Paul Rivera (12-0, 6 KOs) vs. Miami, Florida’s Daniel Bailey (15-2, 8 KOs). Most Valuable Prospects 14 will be available globally for free on both DAZN.com and the DAZN app with no subscription required. Tickets for Most Valuable Prospects 14 are on sale now at Ticketmaster.

MVP Fight Night is produced and marketed by MVP, promoted by MVP and Boxlab Promotions, and distributed globally by DAZN. CELSIUS Live Fit Essential Energy, maker of lifestyle energy drinks, is the exclusive energy drink sponsor of MVP. Fansly, TORKLAW, and Event Ticket Center will also sponsor the event.

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions and @DAZNBoxing or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions and @DAZNBoxing.

About MVP

MVP was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP have produced Jake Paul’s last six global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Perry match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. MVP made history again in November 2024 with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2, the first-ever live professional sports event on Netflix. MVP’s Paul vs. Tyson streamed live globally on Netflix and shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event ever with 108 million live viewers globally. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of Paul vs. Tyson and the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

About DAZN

DAZN is the home of European football, women’s football, boxing and MMA, and the NFL (excl. USA). We are building the ultimate sports entertainment platform, based on premium sports rights, world-leading tech, and multi-platform distribution. DAZN believes that fans from across the globe should be able to watch, read, bet, play, share, socialise, buy tickets and merchandise, all in one place, with one account, one wallet and on one app.

For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit?dazngroup.com.

Abass Baraou’s maiden defence of the EBU European Super Welterweight title on Friday, June 14 will now take place at a new venue.

Baraou faces Macaulay McGowan, live and free on Channel 5 next month, with the contest originally due to be held at Victoria Warehouse in Manchester.

But circumstances outside the control of Wasserman Boxing mean the stacked night of action is moving to the nearby Toughsheet Community Stadium in Bolton.

The June 14 date remains the same, all tickets purchased for the original venue will remain valid in Bolton, and the stacked card is unaffected by the change in event location.

German hero Baraou once again goes into the lion’s den against Manchester favourite McGowan, having won the vacant belt in a Fight of the Year contender against Sam Eggington in Telford, earlier this year.

And the electric European title clash – which starts straight after the opening game of Euro 2024 between Germany and Scotland – is supported by a hard-hitting undercard:

•    Former world super middleweight champion Lerrone Richards takes on the battle-hardened Steed Woodall and aims to deliver a statement about his plans on becoming a two-time title holder.
•    One of British boxing’s brightest prospects, the dazzling Dan Toward, is back in action after a big KO win last time out.
•    Ryan Kelly and Gerome Warburton promise fireworks in their Commonwealth Silver Middleweight title collision.
•    And Darlington’s Ben Marksby, Leeds debutant Ellis Price and rising Liverpool star Mikie Tallon also form part of the talent-laden undercard in Bolton on June 14.

Baraou vs McGowan, EBU European Super Welterweight title, Friday, June 14 in Bolton, live and free-to-air on Channel 5.
Tickets are available from www.WassermanBoxing.com 

The opening night of the Euros won’t just be about football on June 14 as ‘Extra Time’ kicks off in Manchester in a night of European Boxing live on Channel 5, in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum. From the iconic Victoria Warehouse, European Champion Abass Baraou and Macaulay McGowan continue the Germany Scotland occasion at the top of a card guaranteed to bring fireworks.

Leading the support for the main event, one of Britain’s hottest prospects – ten time National Amateur Champion Dan Toward and unbeaten North East prospect Ben Marksby, looking to make it 10 wins from 10 fights. 

There’s more title action, as ‘Ruthless’ Ryan Kelly has a score to settle against ‘The Bread Maker’ Gerome Warburton for the Commonwealth Silver Middleweight title. A fight between these has been talked about for some time, and with Kelly delivering a potential Fight of the Year last time out against Ioan Lutic, he’ll be confident of collecting the belt.

Ellis Price and Mikie Tallon make up an explosive card in Manchester as European fever truly takes hold of the sporting world.

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman, said: “it’s European fever pitch! Abass Baraou is on his way to becoming one of the best Super Welterweights in the world. His performance in Telford against Sam Eggington, was fantastic and you can expect more of the same this time out in Manchester. 

We’ve got a stacked undercard as well. Dan Toward, ten time national champion who will take another step up. Ben Marksby, still undefeated and looking like a fighter with serious potential. Plus a brewing rivalry between two top British fighters for the Commonwealth Silver title. This is what free-to-air boxing is all about! 

The crowds up in Manchester are among the most lively in the world and we can’t wait to deliver for them again as we have done so many times before”

Tickets are on sale now via the link above as a memorable night in Manchester beckons, kicking the Euros off in style!

Abass Baraou returns to the ring to defend his EBU European Super Welterweight Title against Macaulay McGowan at Victoria Warehouse in Manchester on June 14, live on Channel 5, two months on from defeating Sam Eggington in Telford. 

Baraou is looking to continue his pursuit of global success as fans are set for a thrilling night of action, live and free on Channel 5.

Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum head to Manchester for Extra Time, a night of championship boxing that fans won’t want to miss.

UNDERCARD

• Ryan Kelly and Gerome Warburton face off for the vacant Commonwealth Silver Middleweight Title.
• One of British boxing’s finest prospects Dan Toward, looks to continue his unbeaten start to his professional career.
• The exciting Ben Marksby is back for his first fight of 2024.

Abass Baraou defeated Sam Eggington to win the vacant EBU European Super Welterweight title on an emotionally-charged night, live and free on Channel 5.

Baraou defeated ‘The Savage’ via a majority decision after 12 remarkable rounds at the Telford International Centre, with the judges scoring 117-112 and 117-111 in the German’s favour, while the other official saw the fight as 114-114 draw.

After a record-setting year in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum, Wasserman Boxing has returned for 2024 by delivering an early contender for Fight of the Year, seen by viewers on Channel 5 in the UK, and worldwide on DAZN.

Baraou was overcome with emotion following the biggest win of his career but after wiping away the tears of joy, spoke of his determination to “keep the motor running” and use his Euro title win as a springboard to huge fights later this year.

The 29-year-old’s incredible battle with Eggington also doubled up as an official eliminator for the WBA world title and Baraou issued a stunning statement of intent to the rest of the 154lbs division.

On the undercard in Telford, Newcastle’s Dan Toward move to 3-0 by forcing the retirement of Frank Madsen in the fifth round, after another classy display.

New Wasserman Boxing recruit Sultan Zaurbek dropped Victor Julio en route to a convincing eight round points win, and is primed for an assault on the world super featherweight title in 2024.

Heavyweight hope Matty Harris got back to winning ways after last summer’s shock defeat, winning every round against Amine Boucetta, as he boxed under the guidance of Peter Fury for the first time.

And ‘Atomic’ Tom Welland extended his perfect start to life as a professional. to 3-0, with a second round stoppage of Esteban Troetsch. 

 6×3 rounds welterweight contest

Elliot Whale 149lbs
Fernando Mosquera weighing in tomorrow

6×3 rounds super featherweight contest

Gully Power 129lbs
Angelo Turco 134lbs

6×3 rounds welterweight contest

Kaisee Benjamin 150.9lbs
Berman Sanchez 155.11lbs

4×3 rounds welterweight contest

Nick Leahy 147.11lbs
Jake Osgood 145.11lbs

UNDERCARD LIVE FROM 7PM ON DAZN

4×3 rounds featherweight contest

Tom Welland 126lbs
Esteban Troestch 121.1lbs

MAKE A KNOCKOUT BET WITH LADBROKES
Abass Baraou 1/2
Draw 16/1
Sam Eggington 7/4

8×3 super featherweight contest

Sultan Zuarbek 134.8lbs
Victor Julio 135.12lbs

4×3 heavyweight contest

Matty Harris 269.9lbs
Amine. Boucetta 231.11lbs

BBBofC Southern Area Super Middleweight title
10×3 rounds

Andrei Dascalu 166.12lbs
Joe Jackson-Brown 170lbs

6×3 middleweight contest

Ryan Kelly 163.6lbs
Ioan Alexandru Lutic 163.3lbs

LIVE ON CHANNEL 5 AT 10PM

EBU European Super Welterweight title
12×3 rounds

Abass Baraou 153.8lbs
Sam Eggington 153.11lbs

6×3 rounds super welterweight

Dan Toward 154.13lbs
Frank Madsen 154.10lbs

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman, said: “This is a real throwback fight, and for the mainstream sports fan tuning in, this is Germany vs England and for the European championship.
“Abass is very slick, he finds the shot and he lands it, and looks to take you out of there.  Sam Eggington wears his heart on his sleeve and comes forwards, forwards, forwards.  Reverse?  No, not even on the register.  A guy who has won Fight of the Year twice and he’s only 30-years-old!  So you know this is going to be a night that is going to be a great advertisement for boxing.”

MAKE A KNOCKOUT BET WITH LADBROKES
Abass Baraou 1/2
Draw 16/1
Sam Eggington 7/4
Abass Baraou said: “I am just ready to fight anyone and be in the fights that will push me towards world title fights, that is the only thing I want.
“We are finally in fight week, I feel good, I feel great and I can’t wait for Friday night.
“I know Sam is a tough fighter who comes forward all night, he has been in wars and he has a lot of experience, but this is what I’m looking for and I can’t wait.
“I wasn’t aware that Sam has been involved in two Fight of the Year fights, but this doesn’t mean anything to me.  I am expecting to deal with everything he brings in the ring.”

Sam Eggington said: “Anyone who has watched me box before, knows I have one style and that is to get the job done – and we don’t get paid overtime.
“I have Plan A and my job is to make Plan A work.  From the moment I signed for this fight, I have had the feeling that it will catch fire at some point.  How soon it catches fire, is up to Abass because I don’t back down from a scrap.
“I don’t think this fight will go the 12 rounds.”

Wasserman Boxing is proud to confirm that Abass Baraou has signed a new deal with the company.

The world-rated super welterweight will continue to be promoted by Wasserman Boxing, under the guidance of Kalle and Nisse Sauerland, who have been by his side since he made his professional debut in 2018.

Baraou fights for the vacant EBU European Super Welterweight title on Friday night in Telford, against Sam Eggington, live and free-to-air on Channel 5 from 10pm.

The German is ranked at No7 with the World Boxing Association and the former European Amateur Championships gold medal winner, is ready to catapult his career to new heights this week by claiming the European crown.

Abass Baraou said: “I am happy to have signed a new deal with Wasserman Boxing and to carry on my mission to become world champion with Kalle and Nisse.  

“There is nobody better than Wasserman Boxing to deliver the big fights I want and that all starts on Friday night, with the European title. And with Jorge Rubio as my coach, I feel very confident in the future.

“I have some huge opportunities ahead of me on the international stage this year and my team and I have a good plan to achieve my dreams. On Friday night, I become the new European champion and officially put the world title holders on notice.”

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman, said: “Everyone at Wasserman is delighted that Abass will continue to be part of Team Wass and we can’t wait to help guide the next stage of his career.

“Abass is one of the world’s best super welterweights and he begins a huge 2024 by challenging for the European Super Welterweight title in a brilliant fight with Sam Eggington on Friday night.  

“Abass is a sleeping giant at 154lbs and as he moves into his prime, he is ready for any and all-comers.  This year is going to be a big one for Abass as he proudly flies the flag for his country and bids to become Germany’s next world champion.”

It’s official – Abass Barou and Sam Eggington’s European title showdown is too close to call!

The super welterweight rivals clash on March 1, at the Telford International Centre, live and free-to-air on Channel 5.

Boxing fans gave the big fight their seal of approval when Wasserman Boxing announced the contest last month, immediately predicting it will be on the fights of the year.

And the official fight odds, brought to you by Ladbrokes, reflect the excitement around this Euro showdown, with the oddsmakers unable to split Barou and Eggington.

MAKE A KNOCKOUT BET WITH LADBROKES

Baraou 10/11
Draw 18/1
Eggington 10/11

Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: “It’s not often our traders are left sitting on the fence, but that’s absolutely the case when it comes to splitting Eggington and Baraou.”

He added: “We’re anticipating the local lad to head into the ring with the majority of punters’ backing; while his record suggests he’s had his ups and downs, Eggington always puts on a show.”

“Jack Culcay was no doubt Baraou’s toughest fight to date and, despite losing that clash in Germany, he heads to Telford on a five-fight winning streak, something our number crunchers are obviously conscious of.”

The Wasserman Boxing show, delivered in association with Numan and Infinitum, also sees the return of heavyweight Matty Harris and the latest fight for two of British boxing’s brightest prospects, Dan Toward and Tom Welland.

A tasty looking Southern Area Super Middleweight title fight between Andrei Dascalu and Joe Jackson-Brown also forms part of an exciting undercard in Telford.

Tickets for the European title showdown on March 1 are still available 

A recharged Matty Harris starts out on the heavyweight comeback trail on Friday, March 1 in Telford as part of a huge night of European title action.

Also added to the Wasserman Boxing event at the Telford International Centre, is one of British boxing’s most exciting young stars, Dan Toward who has made a flying start to life as a professional.

The Wasserman Boxing talents are the first additions to the undercard of the EBU European Super Welterweight title showdown between Abass Baraou and Sam Eggington, which will be shown live and free-to-air on Channel 5.

Baraou’s clash with ‘The Savage’ promises to stake an early claim for Fight of the Year, as Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes, Infinitum Entertainment and Numan, starts its 2024 schedule with a bang.

Tickets go on sale tomorrow at 10am and are expected to go fast.

Heavyweight puncher Harris, 24, returns to the ring for the first time since July’s shock defeat in Edinburgh to Kostiantyn Dovbyshchenko and fights for the first time under new coach, Peter Fury.

Toward, 22, has hit the ground running in the pro ranks, clocking up two quick wins at the end of last year, and heads to Telford with a new trainer, Dave Coldwell. 

Matty Harris said: “Since losing my unbeaten record, I have taken time out to work on what went wrong last summer. 

“I’ve now got a renewed focus and I feel recharged and more than ready to get back in the ring, on March 1 in Telford. 

“I have teamed up with Peter Fury and I am really excited about this new partnership and where my career can go with this man in my corner, because he has forgotten more than most people know about the sport. 

“I’m buzzing to be back; I can’t wait to put right what went wrong and start putting myself back in the heavyweight mix.” 

Dan Toward said: “I am one of Britain’s brightest prospects and I fully intend on setting out my stall for 2024, with a big performance on March 1 in Telford.

“This time, I will have Dave Coldwell in my corner and I can’t wait to show people in the arena, and those watching on TV, what we have been working on behind-closed-doors.

“It was incredible to experience being under the lights and in front of cameras for the first time as a pro last year, and the stage gets even bigger in Telford.

“One day soon, it will be me who is fighting for the European title but, for now, I am going to soak up the atmosphere and deliver a performance that will steal the show.”

Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum, delivered a series of sensational fight nights in 2023 that were watched by millions on free-to-air television. 

And today, it can be confirmed that Wasserman’s 2024 schedule launches with a contest that will stake an early claim for Fight of the Year, as Baraou faces ‘The Savage’ Eggington in Telford. 

Baraou is Germany’s world-ranked former amateur star with designs on global domination, while Eggington is a British boxing cult hero after a barnstorming career packed with memorable blood and guts fights and title wins. 

Twice a winner of the domestic Fight of the Year, Eggington is bidding to become a two-weight EBU European champion, but Baraou has outstanding pedigree and is ready to live up to his billing as one of the best fighters of his generation from Germany. 

This tantilising clash of styles is certain to produce yet another fight that fans will go crazy for, live and free on Channel 5.  

Abass Baraou said: “I am incredibly motivated after finally confirming my shot at the European title and I can promise you that I won’t let this chance slip through my fingers. 

“Winning the prestigious European title on March 1 will be a major step on my mission to becoming a world champion and I plan on putting on a performance that sends out a statement to rest of the division. 

“Everyone in boxing knows that Sam Eggington is a warrior and has been in some great fights in his career, and our clash of styles will make for another thriller but make no mistake, I will emerge victorious.” 

Sam Eggington said: “March 1 in Telford is the night I write the next chapter in my crazy boxing story.  My fans will pack out the arena and roar me on to become a two-weight European champion. 

“I always deliver must-see fights, I have done so all of my career, but this one against Baraou could be the best yet.  Whether you’re at ringside or watching live on Channel 5, you’re in for one hell of a fight. 

“Baraou may have international amateur medals, just like Frankie Gavin did when we fought, but he has never faced a fighter like me, over 12 gruelling rounds, where I don’t let him breathe for a second.” 

BIG FIGHT ODDS WITH LADBROKES 

Abass Baraou – 4/7 
Sam Eggington – 11/8 
Draw – 18/1 

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman, said: “What a way to start our big fight schedule for 2024! 

“Baraou vs Eggington is an absolute banger of a fight and we’re staging it at a venue which always lends itself to creating a great atmosphere. 

“Abass is one of the best super welterweights in the world, and winning the European title will act as a launchpad to world honours. 

“But Eggington is a British boxing hero who shows incredible bravery, toughness and a granite chin, time after time after time. 

“Last year was a record-setting one for Wasserman Boxing on Channel 5, with millions of people tuning in to watch our events, and so we are setting our stall out for 2024 with this humdinger on March 1 in Telford.”  

Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: “Boxing fans the world over are being treated to a cracking night of action to kick off 2024, and Ladbrokes is once again extremely proud to play a part in things.  
“Abass Baraou has been tipped by many for great things – world titles, even – but it’s safe to say he’ll be up against it in Telford as Sam Eggington will head into the ring with the local backing, and then some.” 

He added: “Baraou got the job done early last time he fought on British soil, but it takes a lot to knock down The Savage… all signs point towards another exhilarating night of Channel 5 boxing in March.” 

Abass Baraou (11-1, 7 KOs) will headline an action-packed event at the Tempodrom in Berlin on Saturday March 19 as the rising Super Welterweight star takes on Argentinian southpaw Brian Damian Chaves (14-1, 5 KOs).

Boxing returns to the Tempodrom for the first time in 18 years as Wasserman Boxing and Probellum continue their partnership with another exciting event following the success of their first co-promotion on December 3 in Ilsenburg.

Baraou, fighting in his adopted hometown for the first time in his paid career, will follow in the footsteps of German greats Markus Beyer, Sebastian Sylvester and Oktay Urjkal who have all previously topped the bill at the famous Berlin venue.

Oktay Urkal challenged ‘Vicious’ Vivian Harris for the WBA World Super Lightweight Title at the Tempodrom in October 2004, while Markus Beyer defended his WBC Super Middleweight crown against Italy’s Alberto Colajanni in January 2006, and future IBF World Champion Sebastian Sylvester fought Francois Bastient for the EBU European Middleweight Title in January 2008.

Baraou, who won Gold at the European Championships and Bronze at the World Championships in 2017, hopes victory over the former WBA Fedebol Champion will enable him to realise his own World Title ambitions.

“I am excited to face an interesting opponent like Chaves at the Tempodrom,” said Baraou. “This is another important step forward for me as I move closer to being able to fight for World Titles. I know it will be a challenge that requires intense preparation. This gives me even more motivation for the next few weeks. I look forward to putting on a great fight for all my fans in Berlin.”

Baraou’s opponent Chaves intends to spoil the party for the former German and WBC International Super Welterweight Champion with the South American confidently predicting he will end the fight in the first five rounds.

“On March 19, I am going to announce myself to the world,” said Chaves, the 29-year-old from Buenos Aires. “I will defeat Abass Baraou by KO within five rounds. I am not going to let this opportunity pass me by. I have plenty of quality and I will be bringing the victory back to Argentina, VAMOS!”

“We’ve promoted three fantastic events at the Tempodrom in the past,” said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “We’re delighted to return with Abass Baraou, who can become one of Germany’s next boxing superstars. Following the success of our first event in Ilsenburg, we’re thrilled to be working once again with our partners Probellum. Spectators will be allowed at the Tempodrom, and I am sure that fans will come in large numbers to experience boxing live in this fantastic setting.”

Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum, adds: “We’re excited to continue our partnership with Wasserman Boxing. This is the second in a series of high-quality boxing events that we will be promoting together this year in Germany. I look forward to seeing Abass Baraou in action as well as the other fights that will be announced in the coming days. Our partnership now continues to gather momentum as we look forward to many more great nights together with Wasserman Boxing!”

Sign up for ticket alerts for Abass Baraou vs. Brian Damian Chaves on March 19 at the Tempodrom in Berlin here: http://eepurl.com/hVwg2z