NORFOLK, Va. (June 5, 2025) — The Businessman is bringing the belt home.

Keyshawn Davis (13-0, 9 KOs) returns to Norfolk’s Scope Arena this Saturday, June 7, to defend his WBO lightweight world title against heavy-hitting Dominican contender Edwin De Los Santos (16-2, 14 KOs).

Keyshawn captured the crown in February with a dominant fourth-round stoppage of Denys Berinchyk. Three months earlier, he electrified the Norfolk crowd with a second-round obliteration of Gustavo Lemos before a sold-out crowd of 10,568.

Now, he’s back to defend his title in front of his hometown faithful.

In the 10-round co-feature, 21-year-old lightweight sensation Abdullah Mason (18-0, 16 KOs) looks to continue his meteoric rise against battle-tested Namibian puncher Jeremia Nakathila (26-4, 21 KOs).

Keyshawn-De Los Santos and Mason-Nakathila will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard begins at 5:10 p.m. ET/2:10 p.m. PT and includes the rest of DB3 in action, with Keyshawn’s older brother Kelvin “Nite Nite” Davis (15-0, 8 KOs) facing Nahir “Woo” Albright (16-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-round junior welterweight bout.

Keon Davis (3-0, 2 KOs), the youngest of the fighting trio, will face fellow unbeaten prospect Michael Velez-Garcia (3-0, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder at welterweight.

Additionally, unbeaten middleweight Troy Isley (14-0, 5 KOs) puts his NABO championship on the line against once-beaten Etoundi Michel William (16-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round tilt.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Sampson Boxing, tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster.com.

At Thursday’s press conference, this is what the fighters said:

Keyshawn Davis

“I want him to say that he’s going to come here and win and try to take my strap. I didn’t pick him for him to not say stuff like that. I picked him because I know that he’s going to come to create a great fight for the fans that are coming out. And it’s going to be a great fight, but he’s not going to hear And The New.”

“He’s coming to fight and put on a performance because his last one was trash.”

“I knew I was a world champion going into the sport. A title just puts the icing on the cake. I know who I am with or without the belt. I’m the Businessman. I put on great fights. I put on great performances.”

“DB3 sold out the Scope last time, and we all weren’t world champions yet. They just know what we can do, and I know what I can do. I’m the Businessman. And I’m knocking out Edwin De Los Santos on Saturday.”

“Our coaches told us that they’d never see us train this hard. Kelvin has a big fight coming up. Keon has an undefeated fighter coming up. I’m a world champion now, so I’m carrying things a lot differently now. Ya’ll are going to see Saturday night.”

Edwin De Los Santos

“I had a health problem. I had a blood clot in my leg. Unfortunately, I had to be outside the ring for a long time because of that.”

“Nothing in life is easy. What comes easily goes away fast. We are doing something difficult, because one can become great through difficult things.”

“The result will be different this time because I defeated death. And after I defeated death, I know there is nothing bigger than that.”
 
“Everyone will hear the words And The New! And it will be something great for me, my people in the Dominican Republic, and all the Latinos.”

Abdullah Mason

“Jeremia is a great fighter. He lets his hands go. He has 22 knockouts out of 26 wins. So he’s going to punch. He’s got a lot of power. So I’m going to stay focused and tight and get him out of there like the rest.”

“Everything is happening at its proper time. I’m just working my way up to Number 2. We’ve got somebody else ahead of me. I’m right there.”

“I’m going to do my thing and steal the show like I always do.”

Jeremia Nakathila

“I’d been telling my promoter to make sure that if there is an opportunity to come back to the United States, he should take it. During that whole time, I have been training.”

“I understand that he is one of the best prospects in boxing. So I am grateful to be fighting him.”

“For me, there’s nothing new about fighting at this level. I have been fighting top guys. This will be no different. There’s nothing special about facing Mason. I’m just looking forward to Saturday.”

Kelvin Davis

“We can tell that everyone is waiting for this fight. I’m going to show up and show out.”

“I love pressure. Pressure brings out the best in me. So if he acts up, he’s going to sleep.”

“Ya’ll are going to be waking him up. He’s too little. Come Saturday night, they’re going to be waking him up.”

“It’s nothing personal. He’s just a man in my way. It’s nothing personal. I’m trying to show this whole 140-pound division what it is.”

Nahir Albright

“After the Keyshawn Davis fight, it was disappointing. I had to go back home to Philly and go back to work. I’m a single dad. I had to provide for my daughter. And it was hard. But I’m here. I got through it. I stayed strong through it all. I continued to train. I just stayed positive through it all.”

“I remember when I was fighting Keyshawn, I was at the press conference. And Kelvin was like, ‘Say it with your chest!’ So it’s funny because it’s like a full circle moment. Now I get a chance to fight him because he was talking crazy. God has put him in front of me. And we’re going to see what’s up Saturday night.”

Troy Isley

“I’m locked in. I’m ready to go. I’m ready to show out. And I’m ready to show the middleweight division that I’m the king.”

“I’m not going to do too much talking. I’m going to let my work do it.”

Keon Davis

“I’m just taking things slowly. I’m doing things one day at a time. Step by step. I’m not trying to rush the process.”

“I feel like I’m better than ever. I fell out of boxing for about a year and a half. I got a few jobs and tried to figure myself out. But I realized that I have real talent in boxing. I couldn’t let that go down the drain. And I’m here now with my brothers.”

Saturday, June 7

ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)

Keyshawn Davis vs. Edwin De Los Santos, 12 Rounds, Keyshawn’s WBO Lightweight World Title

Abdullah Mason vs. Jeremia Nakathila, 10 Rounds, Mason’s NABO & NABF Lightweight Titles

ESPN+ (5:10 p.m. ET/2:10 p.m. PT)

Kelvin Davis vs. Nahir Albright, 10 rounds, Vacant Silver WBC US Junior Welterweight Title

Patrick O’Connor vs. Marcus Smith, 4 rounds, Cruiserweight

Keyshawn Davis will defend his WBO lightweight crown in a homecoming spectacle against Dominican knockout artist Edwin De Los Santos. 

Keyshawn (13-0, 9 KOs) captured the title with a fourth-round knockout of Denys Berinchyk in February. In 2024, the unbeaten Olympic silver medalist scored wins over Jose Pedraza and Miguel Madueño before cementing his world title shot by stopping Gustavo Lemos in two rounds in front of a sold-out Norfolk crowd. Keyshawn returns home to make his first title defense against a hard-hitting former world title challenger.

De Los Santos (16-2, 14 KOs) built his reputation with over 250 amateur bouts and a string of knockouts in the Dominican Republic. He burst onto the U.S. scene with upsets over unbeaten contenders Luis Acosta and Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela. In his last fight, he went the distance with Shakur Stevenson for the vacant WBC lightweight world title in 2023, but lost via unanimous decision.

In the 10-round lightweight co-feature, Cleveland’s Abdullah Mason faces the most recognizable name of his career in upset-minded Namibian puncher Jeremia Nakathila.
 

Mason (18-0, 16 KOs) has emerged as a world-ranked contender after opening his 2025 campaign with back-to-back knockout victories. He impressed on the Berinchyk-Davis undercard in February, stopping the durable Manuel Jaimes in the fourth round and followed that performance with a sixth-round TKO of Carlos Ornelas on April 5 in Las Vegas.

Nakathila (26-4, 21 KOs) made his U.S. debut in June 2021, dropping a 12-round decision to Shakur Stevenson in a bout for the WBO interim junior lightweight world title. He rebounded nine months later with a notable win over former world champion Miguel Berchelt, who did not answer the bell for the seventh round. After two losses in 2023, Nakathila returned to form in 2024, going 3-0 with two knockouts in his native Namibia.

The action-packed undercard bouts begin at 5:10 p.m. ET/ 2:10 p.m. PT.

Timothy Bradley, Jr., Mark Kriegel, and Bernardo Osuna will call the action.

ESPN.com 

June 5: What Keyshawn Davis means to the city of Norfolk, Virginia

Fighting out of Norfolk, Keyshawn Davis is the latest in a long line of elite athletes from the city, joining Michael Vick, Allen Iverson, Pernell Whitaker and others. What’s in the water in Norfolk and how does the city produce such a high concentration of exceptional athletes? Michael Vick, Allen Iverson, Mayor Kenny Alexander and others weigh in on what Davis means to the city and why it is important to keep the Norfolk lineage going.

Original Programming:

ESPN Original Series “The Fight Life” chronicles a year in the world of Top Rank Boxing through the journeys of five of the sport’s elite boxers: Tyson Fury, Naoya Inoue, Seniesa Estrada, Teofimo Lopez, and Josh Taylor.

ESPN+: On Demand Shows, Archives & Premium Articles

• Top Rank: Real Time– All-access with top fighters throughout fight week as they work their way to fight night. 
• Who Do U Fight 4?– Learn what drivesthe next generation of Top Rank stars. 
• State of Boxing– Post-show coverage of the biggest fights on ESPN and ESPN+. 
• Best of Boxing Spotlight – An archive of the all-time best Top Rank fights. 

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Keyshawn vs. De Los Santos (All Times ET)

About ESPN

LAS VEGAS (May 21, 2025) — Undefeated Dominican middleweight prospect Euri Cedeño has signed a long-term co-promotional agreement with Top Rank, which will work alongside King’s Promotions. Cedeño represented his homeland at the Tokyo Olympics and has emerged as one of his nation’s preeminent power punchers.

The 25-year-old southpaw will return in a 10-rounder versus Ecuador’s Abel Mina (18-3-1, 9 KOs) on Saturday, June 7, at Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia. Cedeño-Mina will be part of the ESPN+-streamed undercard to the ESPN-televised WBO lightweight world title showdown between reigning champ Keyshawn Davis and former title challenger Edwin De Los Santos.

Cedeño joins Elvis Rodriguez, Olympic teammate Rohan Polanco, and Yan Santana as part of Top Rank’s deep roster of Dominican standouts.

“Euri Cedeño is one of the most complete fighters to come out of the Dominican Republic in recent years,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “He has amateur pedigree, the composure of a seasoned veteran, and all the tools to become a real threat in the middleweight division.”

“I’m very excited about this co-promotion with Top Rank, which is — and has been — the best promotional company in the world,” said Marshall Kauffman, CEO of King’s Promotions. “I believe we have a future star in Euri Cedeño, and with the guidance of matchmakers Brad Goodman and Bruce Trampler, this kid will win multiple world titles.”

Cedeño (11-0-1, 10 KOs) began boxing at age five, inspired by his late father, Aquino, a renowned trainer in the Dominican Republic. Aquino guided the amateur careers of both Euri and his older brother, Hendri, as Euri compiled more than 400 bouts. Though the brothers hoped to turn pro together in 2021, Euri delayed his debut to compete in the Olympics. He entered the paid ranks in October 2022 and scored six straight knockouts before suffering his lone blemish, a draw against unbeaten Cuban Dayan Depestre in October 2024. He bounced back that December with a decision over Yoanki Urrutia, then added five more stoppages to his resume, including a first-round finish of Ulices Tovar Rivera in March.

“It’s a great honor to join Top Rank’s incredible stable,” Cedeño said. “This opportunity results from years of hard work, including over 400 amateur fights, my Olympic run, and 11 wins as a pro. I’ve earned it, but there’s still a long way to go until I achieve my dream of becoming a world champion. I begin this next big chapter in my career on June 7 in Norfolk.”

NORFOLK, Va. (April 18, 2025) — Norfolk’s Keyshawn Davis (13-0, 9 KOs) is ready for another raucous homecoming. The WBO lightweight world champion will defend his title against Dominican puncher Edwin De Los Santos (16-2, 14 KOs) on Saturday, June 7, at Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia.

Keyshawn snatched the title from fellow Olympic silver medalist Denys Berinchyk in February with a savage fourth-round finish. Today, the homecoming king returned to host a kickoff press conference at Attucks Theatre, a 15-minute walk from where he’ll make his inaugural defense.

He was joined by Norfolk mayor Dr. Kenneth Cooper Alexander, as well as the two other members of DB3.

Kelvin Davis (15-0, 8 KOs), the eldest of the fighting trio, will return in a 10-round junior welterweight bout, while the youngest, Keon Davis (2-0, 1 KO), will see action in a six-round welterweight scrap. Both are set to return on the ESPN+-streamed undercard. 

Keyshawn-De Los Santos and the 10-round lightweight co-feature between Abdullah Mason and Jeremia Nakathila will air live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. 

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Sampson Boxing, tickets are ON SALE NOW via Ticketmaster.com.

This is what the Davis Brothers and Mayor Alexander had to say at Friday’s press conference.

Keyshawn Davis
“It’s a blessing. Everything from Lemos, I think, really kickstarted the next level in my career. It definitely kickstarted it. From how our people supported the event. From how it turned out. And, of course, the knockout. It definitely kickstarted my career and going into winning the world title with an amazing performance and bringing it back here for the summertime. It’s about to get lit!”

“Norfolk brings that type of energy. There’s something in the water out here. Once we’re all together and we have that atmosphere going again, it’s going to be an amazing event. It’s going to be an amazing event because we are amazing people.”

When Asked To Send A Message to Edwin De Los Santos:

“You see how we get down out here. You’re in for a ride. I hope you’re ready. So get ready.”

Kelvin Davis

“I’m here to stay. I’m coming for the belts. Everyone at 140, I’m definitely coming for them. Keep my belts warm because I’m going to collect.”

“I’m ready. These guys, they’re just baby food. I’m ready for the big boy food. These guys at 140 play hot potato with the belts. I’m ready to come get them.”

“We’re coming for all of them at 140. I’m not ducking nobody. We’re coming for it.”

Keon Davis

“It was great performing in Norfolk for my first fight. I’m going to think about it for the rest of my career. A lot of people showed up. It was great for me.”

“This time we’re going to put a stamp on it. The second time around is going to be a lot better. This is part two.”

Dr. Kenneth Cooper Alexander 

“It means the world to the city. We’re so proud of Keyshawn, Kelvin and Keon, not only for what they are doing for their family and themselves, but also for what they are doing for the sport and the city.  We’re just thrilled that they are homegrown and that they continue to give back each and every day to our city.”

“DB3 are the complete package. They are great citizens. They are great young men. And, more importantly, they are great individuals and they are fun to be around. It’s exciting to watch them and to know what they are going to do. They are going to impact lives with their spirit of giving back to the community.” 

Keyshawn Davis stopped Denys Berinchyk in round four to win the WBO Lightweight title at The Theatre at Madison Square Garden.

In round three, Davis landed a left to the body that put Berinchyk on a knee for a knockdown. In round four, it was another left to the body to liver as Berinchyk tried to come in and throw punches that put Berinchyk on the deck for the 10-count at

Davis, 134.2 lbs of Norfolk, VA is now 13-0 with 10 knockouts. Berinchyk, 134.6 lbs of Kyiv, UKR is 19-1.

Davis said, “It was an amazing feeling. Right before I knocked him out, I was hearing the crowd saying, ‘Norfolk! Norfolk! Norfolk!’ I was like, ‘I’ve got to knock him out now! Boom!’”

“I never really had problems with awkward fighters. The only thing that was giving me trouble was how he kept jumping in and out. And he was a little faster than I expected. As the rounds went on, I got more comfortable in there, and in the fourth round, I did it to him.”

“My son was here. I had to show up for my son, Keyshawn Jr. He was in the crowd watching me. It means a lot to me now. When he looks back at this day, he’s going to be proud of his father.”

“I want anybody who has the balls to step in the ring and fight me. There are two 135-pound champions that I would love to fight. If they have the guts to step in the ring with ‘The Businessman,’ tell them to send me a contract, or I can send them one.”

Xander Zayas Stops Slawa Spomer in 9

Xander Zayas remained undefeated with a ninth round stoppage of Slawa Spomer in a battled of undefeated junior middleweights.

In round one, Spomer began to bleed from his nose.

In round nine, Zayas hurt Spomer with a left hook to the body. Spomer retreated to the ropes and Zayas pounced on Spomer with a flurry of punches until Zayas doubled over Spomer again with a another left to the body, and the fight was stopped at 2:01.

Zayas, 153.2 lbs of San Juan, PR is 21-0 with 13 knockouts. Spomer, 153.2 lbs of Heilbromn, GER is 20-1.

Zayas said, “I knew from the first round that he would wear down little by little. In the third or fourth, I hurt him, and he got me with a good shot. But I went to my corner, and they told me to keep fighting intelligently because we had 10 rounds to wear him down. And by the eighth and ninth, they told me, let’s step it up with the combinations, and we started to land with more power to get the finish.”

“On paper, he was my toughest opponent to date, and I stopped him. I have passed every test that has been put in front of me, and I feel I’m ready to fight for a world title right now. I want that next.”

Mielnicki and Coyle Battle To Majority Draw

Vito Mielnicki Jr. and Connor Coyle battled to a 10-round majority draw in a middleweight fight.

In round four, Mielnicki was bleeding from his mouth. In the same round, Coyle was cut around his left eye.

Mielnicki landed 146 of 546 punches. Coyle was 98 of 520.

Mielnicki, 159.4 lbs of Roseland, NJ took a card by a 96-94 tally while two judges had it even at 95-95. Mielnicki is now 20-1-1. Coyle, 158.3 lbs of Derry, NI is 21-0-1.

Juanmita Lopez DeJesus needed just 59 seconds to win his pro debut over Bryan Santiago in a four-round junior bantamweight bout.

DeJesus landed a left uppercut that put Santiago down and out.

Dejesus, 113.8 lbs of Caguas, PR is the son of former world champion Juan Manuel Lopez. Santiago, 113.6 lbs of Weslaco, TX is 1-2-1.

Abdullah Mason remained undefeated by dropping Manuel Jaimes four-times enroute to a fourth round stoppage in a eight-round lightweight bout.

In round Mason dropped Jaimes with a step-back left uppercut. Mason scored another knockdown in round three from another left hand.. In round four, Mason dropped Jaimes with a right hook that was followed by a left. Mason finished off Jaimes when he dumped him agaion the canvas with a straight left hand that was followed by two right hooks at 1:55.

Mason, 136.2 lbs of Cleveland is 17-0 with 15 knockouts. Jaimes, 137 lbs of Stockton, CA is 16-3-1.

“I said the same thing {about no longer being called a prospect}. We say the same thing. We want the belts, world championship,” Mason said. “I gotta keep doing what I’m doing and making these guys look the way I’ve been doing since I turned pro.”

Rohan Polanco stopped Jean Carlos Torres in round two of their 10-round welterweight fight.

In round one, Polanco dropped Torres with a leaping left hook to the temple In round two, it was a left hook that d put Torres down again. Seconds later, it was a big right hand that rocked Torres and one punch later the fight was stopped at 1:48.

Polanco, 146.4 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is now 15-0 with 10 knockouts. Torres, 147 lbs of Trujillo Alto, PR is 22-2.

Keon Davis stopped Ira Johnson in round two of their four-round welterweight fight.

In round two, Davis dropped Johnson with a left hook to the body. Then it was a flurry that was capped by a right over the top that put Johnson down for 10-count at 1:38.

Davis, 149.2 lbs of Norfolk, VA is 2-0 with one knockout. Johnson, 148.2l lbs of Kansas City is 3-3.

Jared Anderson won a 10-round unanimous decision over Marios Kollias in a heavyweight bout.

In round four, Kollias started to swell under his left eye.

ANerson, 256.8 lbs of Toledo won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 18-1. Kollias, 235.4 lbs of Pares, GRE is 12-4-1.

Juan Carlos Guerra Jr. scored an upset six-round split decision over Nico Ali Walsh in a middleweight fight.

Guerra, 1578.8 lbs of Chicago won by scores of 58-56 twice and 58-56 for Walsh. Guerra is now 6-1-1. Waksh, 15.2 lbs of Las Vegas is 11-2.

 •  Denys Berinchyk 134.6 lbs. vs. Keyshawn Davis 134.2 lbs
(Berinchyk’s WBO Lightweight World Title – 12 Rounds)

   • Xander Zayas 153.2 lbs vs. Slawa Spomer 153.2 lbs
(Zayas’ NABF & NABO Junior Middleweight Title — 10 Rounds)

   • Vito Mielnicki Jr. 159.4 lbs vs. Connor Coyle 158.8 lbs
(Vacant USBA, WBC USA & WBO International Middleweight Titles — 10 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 5:15 p.m. ET/2:15 p.m. PT)

•  Juanmita Lopez De Jesus 113.8 lbs vs. Bryan Santiago 113.6 lbs
 (Junior Bantamweight — 4 Rounds)

•  Abdullah Mason 136.2 lbs vs. Manuel Jaimes 137 lbs
 (Lightweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Rohan Polanco 146.4 lbs vs. Jean Carlos Torres 147 lbs
 (Welterweight — 10 Rounds)

•  Keon Davis 149.2 lbs vs. Ira Johnson 148.2 lbs
 (Welterweight — 4 Rounds)

•   Jared Anderson 256.8 lbs vs. Marios Kollias 235.4 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 10 Rounds)

•  Nico Ali Walsh 157.2 lbs vs. Juan Carlos Guerra Jr. 157.8 lbs
 (Middleweight — 6 Rounds)

NEW YORK CITY (Feb. 12, 2025) — Keyshawn Davis is on the verge of the biggest moment of his career.

Davis (12-0, 8 KOs) will challenge Denys Berinchyk (19-0, 9 KOs) for the WBO lightweight world title this Friday, Feb. 14, at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. The 25-year-old gets his first shot at world title glory against a fellow Olympic silver medalist determined to hold onto his crown.

The fight took on a deeply personal turn during Thursday’s press conference after Davis accused Berinchyk of delivering a box of bananas and a watermelon to his room, an act he deemed racist, while Berinchyk dismissed the claim as a manufactured controversy.

In the 10-round junior middleweight co-feature, Puerto Rican contender Xander Zayas (20-0, 12 KOs) looks to defend his WBO No. 1 ranking against fellow unbeaten Slawa Spomer (20-0, 11 KOs).

New Jersey-born middleweight Vito Mielnicki Jr. (20-1, 12 KOs) kicks off the broadcast in a 10-round showdown against world-ranked Irishman Connor Coyle (21-0, 9 KOs).

Berinchyk-Davis, Zayas-Spomer, and Mielnicki-Coyle will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard begins at 5:15 p.m. ET/2:15 p.m. PT and features the pro debut of second-generation Puerto Rican star Juanmita Lopez De Jesus, son of former two-weight world champion Juan Manuel “Juanma” Lopez, in a four-round junior bantamweight tilt against Bryan Santiago (1-1-1, 1 KO).

Undefeated lightweight southpaw Abdullah Mason (16-0, 14 KOs) takes on Manuel Jaimes (16-2-1, 11 KOs) in an eight-rounder, while Dominican Olympian Rohan Polanco (14-0, 9 KOs) looks to edge closer to a title shot in a 10-round welterweight clash against Jean Carlos Torres (22-1, 17 KOs).

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with K2 Promotions and Queensberry Promotions, tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster.com.

This is what the fighters said at Wednesday’s press conference:

Denys Berinchyk

“I don’t speak English, and I don’t write English.  I saw his message on social media. It’s weird even to mention this. Some people with bad intentions looking for some hype made that.”
 
“The first thing you need to do is make weight. And afterward, on Friday, we’re going to sort it out.”
 
“Since winning my title, I’ve been training the entire time. And I was preparing for this defense. Nothing changed too much in my life. We have a war in Ukraine. So, unfortunately, my life didn’t change much.”
 
“I never imagined myself fighting here. But I’ve been working hard for 25 years to make my dream come true and accomplish this assignment.”
 
“I have 355 amateur fights. I have more than 500 victorious street fights. I have one bare-knuckle fight that was also victorious.” 

Keyshawn Davis

“I want to address the fact that this guy came to America to give me bananas and a watermelon with a note on it. It’s unprofessional, and I feel like it’s racist. And you just made this fight a little more personal. This man brought a box of bananas and a watermelon to America to bring to my room. I took it as racist. So, I got something for you.”
 
“Ya’ll did it. It’s OK that ya’ll did it. I’m going to whoop your ass for it. Just know what’s coming Friday night.”
 
“It’s a real blessing. When he called my name out after he won his last fight, I had a feeling in my spirit that I was going to fight him for the world championship. I never thought it would be at Madison Square Garden.”
 
“You’re not tougher than me. You can talk about all that bare-knuckle stuff. I come from what I come from. I’ve been doing this bare-knuckle s**t outside the ring. So, all that s**t you’re talking about, I don’t care. I’m going to f**k you up this Friday. 
 
I don’t care about none of your experience or amateur experience. I don’t care about your silver medal. I don’t even care about your watch, your belt, or any of that. I’m going to f**k you up on Friday.”

Xander Zayas

“I feel amazing. Fight No. 7 here at the ‘Mecca of Boxing.’ New York is like a second home now. I’m excited to put on a show for the fans once again and to put the 154-pound weight class on notice. I’m coming for the world title next.”
 
“This means the world to me. He’s ranked at No. 11 in the WBO for a reason. He’s 20-0 for a reason. He has good victories behind him. But I’m looking forward to becoming 21-0 on Friday night and to the great opportunities coming next in 2025.”

“I’ve been here since Saturday. We had 10 weeks of training camp. I’m one step away from the main goal. I have to beat him to get there, so I’m going to prove that I belong at the elite level.”
 
Slawa Spomer

“I want to show that I belong at the top. Xander is also a top boxer, and I want to climb to the top. In order to get there, you have to fight the best fighters in the world. That’s why I’m here.”

“Camp with Roy Jones Jr. was amazing. So, two dreams have come true. One was to fight at Madison Square Garden, and the other was to prepare with Roy Jones Jr. The preparation and camp were very good. I’ve been in the game long, so I didn’t need to learn the basics. But now, I see different things because of what Roy has taught me. So, I’m proud of that opportunity.”

Vito Mielnicki Jr.

“This is exciting. I’m fighting on the main card on ESPN, which is another great opportunity. I feel blessed to be in this position.”
 
“The goal is to keep climbing and fighting better opposition. This is definitely my toughest to date on paper. And I’m just excited to show what I’ve been working on and how I’ve grown as a fighter. I’m going to put on a dominating performance on Friday.”
 
“This is everything I’ve dreamt of as a kid. This is everything I’ve ever wanted. So we’re going to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Connor Coyle

“I’ve been looking for big fights. But I never got them. It’s not like I was ducking or dodging people. I’ve just had to fight whoever was put in front of me.”
 
“I believe this is my opportunity now, and I’m happy this is at MSG.”
 
“You’ll see the best version of me. I spent 12 weeks in total away from my kids and family. It was the best camp I’ve had, mentally and physically. I’ve had the best sparring. And this is my opportunity, so I have to grab it with both hands.”

Rohan Polanco

“I’ve moved up in weight, so this camp was more intense, and I did more weight training. The sparring was intense, too. But for this fight, I feel very good. I have a lot of experience. I know that my opponent has a lot of experience as well. I think that with my boxing skills, I will walk away victorious.”
 
“My trainer, Hector Bermudez, is very intelligent. He is always teaching me how to adapt to professional boxing because I had such a long career as an amateur. We have meshed well, and I believe it was a great decision for my career to have chosen him.”
 
“The plan is to keep winning so I can keep positioning myself until I get a world title opportunity. That is what we are looking for.”
 
Abdullah Mason
 
“From my last fight, I learned to fight smart and make sure I listen to my corner. Every time I’m tuned into them, the easier the fight is. I did get up and do exceptionally well, but I need to fight smart.”
 
“I see myself up there with the guys who hold the titles. Skill-wise, I feel like I’m able to hold my own in one of those fights and come out on top. But we’re proving ourselves, and we’ll keep taking those steps forward. Hopefully, we grab a smaller title later this year.”
 
Juanmita Lopez de Jesus
 
“I want to make my people in Puerto Rico proud, so I’m going to show what I’m made of and what I bring to the table. This is definitely a different experience. I’ve never had this kind of attention before, so I’m very excited.”

Friday, February 14

ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT)

Keyshawn Davis vs. Denys Berinchyk, 12 rounds, Berinchyk’s WBO Lightweight World Title

Xander Zayas vs. Slawa Spomer, 10 rounds, Zayas’ NABF & NABO Junior Middleweight Titles

Vito Mielnicki Jr. vs. Connor Coyle, 10 rounds, Vacant USBA, WBC USA & WBO International Middleweight Titles
 

ESPN+ (5:15 p.m. ET/2:15 p.m. PT)

Juanmita Lopez De Jesus vs. Bryan Santiago, 4 rounds, junior bantamweight

Abdullah Mason vs. Manuel Jaimes, 8 rounds, lightweight

Rohan Polanco vs. Jean Carlos Torres 10 rounds, welterweight

Keon Davis vs. Ira Johnson, 4 rounds, welterweight

Jared Anderson vs. Marios Kollias, 10 rounds, heavyweight

Nico Ali Walsh vs. Juan Carlos Guerra Jr., 6 rounds, middleweight

*The Tiger Johnson-Quashawn Toler fight was canceled due to Toler being overweight. 

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN: Berinchyk vs. Keyshawn will be presented live this Friday, February 14, at 9:00p.m. ET/ 6:00p.m. PT on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+. The event takes place at The Theater at Madison Square Garden.

WBO lightweight world champion Denys Berinchyk will make the first defense of his title against the undefeated fighting pride of Norfolk, Virginia, Keyshawn Davis.

Berinchyk (19-0, 9 KOs) built an impressive career as an amateur member of Ukraine’s national team alongside boxing greats Vasiliy Lomachenko and Oleksandr Usyk. After winning the European title in 2022, he secured the WBO lightweight world championship with a hard-fought victory over Emanuel Navarrete last May. Now, he prepares for his first title defense, stepping in as the underdog against Davis.

Davis (12-0, 8 KOs) rose to the WBO No. 1 ranking in less than four years, showcasing the skills that made him the most accomplished American amateur of his generation. In 2023, he dominated former European champion Francesco Patera and stopped former two-division world champion Jose Pedraza. He capped the year with a statement win, knocking out Gustavo Lemos in two rounds before a sold-out hometown crowd.

In the 10-round junior middleweight co-feature, Puerto Rican standout Xander Zayas steps up against fellow unbeaten Slawa Spomer.

Zayas (20-0, 12 KOs), the WBO No. 1 contender, spent 2024 fighting at The Theater. He headlined Puerto Rican Day Parade Weekend in June, coasting past former world champion Patrick Teixeira over 10 rounds. Three months later, as the co-feature to the Sandy Ryan-Mikaela Mayer main event, he shut out Mexico’s Damian Sosa. The San Juan native made his pro debut as a 17-year-old in 2019 and currently holds a pair of regional titles. 

Spomer (20-0, 11 KOs) has beaten three undefeated prospects in his career. In October 2023, the German defeated the highly touted French standout Milan Prat in 10 rounds. Spomer returned 13 months later and picked up a first-round TKO over Adam Ngange in Dubai.

In the 10-round televised opener, New Jersey-born middleweight Vito “White Magic” Mielnicki Jr. (20-1, 12 KOs) looks to upend undefeated, world-ranked contender Connor “The Kid” Coyle (21-0, 9 KOs).

The action-packed undercard bouts begin at 5:00 p.m. ET/ 2:00 p.m. PT on ESPN+.

ESPN’s Joe Tessitore, Timothy Bradley, Jr., Mark Kriegel, and Bernardo Osuna will call the action.

ESPN.com:

Feb. 13: Who’s next: Timothy Bradley Jr. picks the future standouts in every division (ESPN+)

Timothy Bradley Jr. evaluates the talent in every boxing division and shares his thoughts on who are most likely to be contenders.

ESPN Original Series “The Fight Life” chronicles a year in the world of Top Rank Boxing through the journeys of five of the sport’s elite boxers: Tyson Fury, Naoya Inoue, Seniesa Estrada, Teofimo Lopez, and Josh Taylor.

ESPN+: On Demand Shows, Archives & Premium Articles

• Top Rank: Real Time– All-access with top fighters throughout fight week as they work their way to fight night. 
• Who Do U Fight 4?– Learn what drivesthe next generation of Top Rank stars. 
• State of Boxing– Post-show coverage of the biggest fights on ESPN and ESPN+. 
• Best of Boxing Spotlight – An archive of the all-time best Top Rank fights. 

Follow @ESPNRingside: Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) TikTok

Berinchyk vs. Keyshawn (All Times ET)

NEW YORK CITY (Feb. 11, 2025) – Fight week has arrived for “The Businessman” as he closes in on his biggest deal yet—his first world title.

Undefeated U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis (12-0, 8 KOs) will challenge Ukraine’s Denys Berinchyk (19-0, 9 KOs) for the WBO lightweight world title this Friday, Feb. 14, at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. The 25-year-old contender who began his pro career in 2021 now takes his biggest step yet toward superstardom.

In the 10-round junior middleweight co-feature, Puerto Rican sensation Xander Zayas (20-0, 12 KOs) takes on fellow unbeaten Slawa Spomer (20-0, 11 KOs).

New Jersey-born middleweight Vito “White Magic” Mielnicki Jr. (20-1, 12 KOs) will open the broadcast in a 10-rounder versus Connor “The Kid” Coyle (21-0, 9 KOs).

Berinchyk-Keyshawn, Zayas-Spomer, and Mielnicki-Coyle will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT) will feature top contenders and a slew of decorated prospects.

• Juanmita Lopez De Jesus vs. Bryan Santiago, 4 rounds, junior bantamweight
• Abdullah Mason vs. Manuel Jaimes, 8 rounds, lightweight
• Rohan Polanco vs. Jean Carlos Torres, 10 rounds, welterweight
• Keon Davis vs. Ira Johnson, 4 rounds, welterweight
• Jared Anderson vs. Marios Kollias, 10 rounds, heavyweight
• Tiger Johnson vs. Quashawn Toler, 8 rounds, welterweight
• Nico Ali Walsh vs. Juan Guerra Jr., 6 rounds, middleweight

Original Programming

Blood, Sweat & Tears: Berinchyk vs. Keyshawn: An inside look at both camps as they prepare for their most important showdown to date, with a deep dive into Davis’ path to his first world title opportunity.

Abdullah Mason: Appetite for Smoke: A special feature on rising lightweight prodigy Abdullah Mason, the Cleveland-born uber-talent who is on the precipice of world title contention.

Blood, Sweat & Tears and Appetite for Smoke are available now on Top Rank’s YouTube Channel, while new episodes of Top Rank Real Time, a behind-the-scenes look at the fighters and their camps, will premiere every day throughout the week.

Fight Week Schedule:

Before Friday’s event, fight week activities will stream live on Top Rank’s YouTube, X (Twitter) and Facebook pages.

Tuesday, February 11: Face-Off at One World Observatory
Keyshawn Davis and Denys Berinchyk meet face-to-face high above New York City.

Highlights from the event will be featured on Top Rank’s YouTube, X (Twitter) and Facebook pages.

Wednesday, February 12: Berinchyk vs. Keyshawn Final Presser
2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT
Streaming live on Top Rank’s YouTube, X (Twitter) and Facebook pages.

Thursday, February 13: Berinchyk vs. Keyshawn Official Weigh-In
12 p.m. ET / 9 a.m. PT
Streaming live on Top Rank’s YouTube, X (Twitter) and Facebook pages.

Friday, February 14: Berinchyk vs. Keyshawn Fight Night

Undercard Stream
5 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. PT
LIVE and exclusively on ESPN+

ESPN Broadcast
9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT
LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+
 

LAS VEGAS (Feb. 7, 2025) — “The Businessman” is ready to get down to the business of capturing a world title.

Keyshawn Davis, the latest fighting sensation from Norfolk, Virginia, will challenge undefeated Ukrainian and fellow Olympic silver medalist Denys Berinchyk for the WBO lightweight world title on Friday, Feb. 14, at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. Berinchyk-Keyshawn headlines an ESPN-televised tripleheader that features Xander Zayas (20-0, 12 KOs) taking on fellow unbeaten Slawa Spomer (20-0, 11 KOs) in the 10-round co-feature.

New Jersey-born middleweight Vito “White Magic” Mielnicki Jr. (20-1, 12 KOs) will open the broadcast in a 10-rounder versus Connor “The Kid” Coyle (21-0, 9 KOs).

Berinchyk-Keyshawn, Zayas-Spomer, and Mielnicki-Coyle will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with K2 Promotions and Queensberry Promotions, tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster.com. 

Davis (12-0, 8 KOs) transitioned from Tokyo Olympic silver medalist to elite contender in quick fashion, emerging as one of the sport’s brightest young stars. In February 2024, he dismantled two-division world champion Jose Pedraza over six one-sided rounds. Davis outclassed Mexican puncher Miguel Madueño across 10 in July and closed out the year with a statement-making second-round knockout of Gustavo Lemos in front of a sold-out hometown crowd at Scope Arena. Berinchyk (19-0, 9 KOs), who captured his silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics, shook up the division last May by vanquishing Emanuel Navarrete via split decision to claim the vacant WBO lightweight crown.

Following a recent training session in Las Vegas, this is what Davis said:

“I’m very excited. Madison Square Garden. New York City, that’s my second home. I have family out there, so I’m ready to turn up for them. Madison Square Garden is legendary. And now that I’m fighting for my first world title there, it means even more.”

“He’s undefeated, and nobody wants to lose their unbeaten record. He’s coming off his biggest win, which was against Emanuel Navarrete. He also has a lot more experience than I do. And this isn’t for a vacant title. I have to take it from him.”

“I’ve never fought his style of boxing as a professional. It’s something new to me in professional boxing. But, if you liked my last fight, you’ll be in for the same treat, a magnificent performance, a hell of a showdown, and something you can’t miss.”

“I feel super strong. I feel motivated. I feel locked in. Nothing can steer me away from my goal of becoming a world champion on February 14. I feel great, and I’m ready to put on a show.”

“I can only think about my world title. But depending on how crazy I knock Berinchyk out, I’m going to be one of those big names that people are going to want to get in the ring with. I’d be putting myself down if I talk about fighting ‘big names’ because I can become one of those big names on February 14.”

NEW YORK CITY (Jan. 7, 2025) — The prince of the lightweight division is coming to The Big Apple looking to unseat the king.

WBO world champion Denys Berinchyk will make the first defense of his title against the undefeated fighting pride of Norfolk, Virginia, Keyshawn Davis, on Friday, Feb. 14, at The Theater at Madison Square Garden.

In the 10-round junior middleweight co-feature, Puerto Rican standout Xander Zayas steps up against fellow unbeaten Slawa Spomer.

And, in the 10-round televised opener, New Jersey-born middleweight Vito “White Magic” Mielnicki Jr. looks to upend undefeated, world-ranked contender Connor “The Kid” Coyle.

Berinchyk-Keyshawn, Zayas-Spomer, and Mielnicki-Coyle will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with K2 Promotions and Queensberry Promotions, tickets go on sale Thursday, Jan. 9 at 12 p.m. ET via Ticketmaster.com.

“Keyshawn Davis has everything it takes to be a modern-day great, but he must first defeat an unbeaten, determined Ukrainian champion in Denys Berinchyk. This has all the makings of a lightweight classic in New York City,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “Xander Zayas is facing a tough, undefeated kid in Slawa Spomer, an excellent test for our Puerto Rican star as he nears a world title shot. And with Vito Mielnicki Jr. facing unbeaten Irishman Connor Coyle, we have a sensational tripleheader in store for the fans at The Theater at Madison Square Garden and watching live on ESPN.”

Berinchyk (19-0, 9 KOs) spent nearly a decade on the Ukrainian national team as an amateur, where his teammates included pound-for-pound great Vasiliy Lomachenko and two-weight undisputed king Oleksandr Usyk. He won the European title in December 2022 on the Tyson Fury-Derek Chisora 3 undercard, notching a decision over Yvan Mendy. Eight months later, he bested Anthony Yigit on the Usyk-Daniel Dubois bill in Poland, earning him a crack at Emanuel Navarrete for the vacant WBO lightweight world title. He stunned the ferocious Mexican warrior last May, tallying a split decision at Pechanga Arena San Diego. For his first title defense, Berinchyk will play the role of underdog once more, attempting to derail the Davis locomotive.

“I’m not going to make any big statements or shower my opponent with compliments,” Berinchyk said. “I’ll just say one thing: Don’t relax, dude! It won’t be an easy fight for you!” 

Davis (12-0, 8 KOs) ascended to the WBO No. 1 ranking in less than four years as a pro, showcasing the skills that made him the most accomplished American amateur of his generation. He graduated to 10-rounders in 2023, knocking out Yigit and dominating former European champion Francesco Patera to start the year. The only blemish on his record — an October 2023 decision victory over Nahir Albright that changed to a no-contest after a positive marijuana test — proved to be a minor speed bump. He stopped former two-division world champion Jose Pedraza in February and overcame Mexican puncher Miguel Madueño over 10 one-sided rounds in July. Davis authored a career-best performance last November, starching Gustavo Lemos in two rounds in front of 10,568 fans at a sold-out Scope Arena in Norfolk.

“This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for. Denys Berinchyk called me out, and I answered,” Davis said. “A new era in the lightweight division begins on February 14th. Be there in person or watch it live on ESPN because what I’m going to do must be seen to be believed.”

Zayas (20-0, 12 KOs), the WBO No. 1 contender, spent 2024 fighting at The Theater. He headlined Puerto Rican Day Parade Weekend in June, coasting past former world champion Patrick Teixeira over 10 rounds. Three months later, as the co-feature to the Sandy Ryan-Mikaela Mayer main event, he shut out Mexico’s Damian Sosa. The San Juan native signed with Top Rank at 16, made his pro debut as a 17-year-old in 2019, and currently holds a pair of regional titles. 

Spomer (20-0, 11 KOs) has beaten three undefeated prospects in his career. In October 2023, the German puncher blew away highly touted French standout Milan Prat in 10 rounds. Spomer returned 13 months later and picked up a first-round TKO over Adam Ngange in Dubai.

“Since I was a kid, I always dreamed of making New York City my second home, and it fills me with pride to know that with a lot of effort and sacrifice, little by little, we have been receiving more and more love from my Puerto Ricans from ‘The Big Apple,’” Zayas said. “Fighting in front of my people at Madison Square Garden is always a great honor, and I can’t wait to give them a great night of boxing on February 14. I will show I am ready to challenge for a world title at 154 pounds. I will not back down!”

Spomer said, “I’ve been waiting for an opportunity like this my whole life. It’s time to show the world that I belong at the top of the sport.”

The 22-year-old Mielnicki (20-1, 12 KOs) makes his middleweight debut and is riding a 12-fight winning streak. The Garden State’s rising star signed with Top Rank last year and made his promotional debut in August with a second-round disqualification win over Laszlo Toth. He returned in September at The Theater and secured a majority decision over Khalil El Harraz. Coyle (21-0, 9 KOs), a world-ranked Irishman, is a 34-year-old veteran who turned pro in 2016 following a well-traveled amateur run. He made three defenses of a regional title from 2022-2023 and picked up his lone victory of 2024 in August with an eight-round decision over Kyle Lomotey in Barnsley, England. Coyle is no stranger to “road warrior” status, as he’s 18-0 on North American soil.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard is scheduled to include the following bouts:

• Dominican-born welterweight contender Rohan Polanco (14-0, 9 KOs) continues his march towards a world title against Puerto Rico’s Jean Carlos Torres (22-1, 17 KOs) in a 10-rounder. Polanco represented his homeland at the Tokyo Olympics and has knocked out four of his last five foes. Torres has won three bouts since a 2021 stoppage defeat to Darwin Price.
   
• Rising lightweight Abdullah Mason (16-0, 14 KOs) will make his 2025 debut against Manuel Jaimes (16-2-1, 11 KOs) in an eight-rounder. The Cleveland-born Mason fought five times in 2024, stopping all his opponents in four rounds or less. Jaimes lost a 10-round decision to former world champion Rolando Romero last September.
   
• Cleveland’s Tiger Johnson (14-0, 6 KOs), an Olympic teammate of Davis’ in Tokyo, will face Cincinnati native Quashawn Toler (17-3, 12 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight battle for Ohio supremacy. This marks the fourth straight appearance at The Theater for Johnson, who went 3-0 with one knockout in 2024. In September, he won an eight-round decision over Yomar Alamo.
   
• Middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh (11-1, 5 KOs), the grandson of “The Greatest,” will face an opponent to be named in a six-rounder. Ali Walsh avenged the lone loss of his career last June, overcoming a dislocated shoulder to win a unanimous decision over Sona Akale. 

Keyshawn Davis did not care that Gustavo Lemos came in over six pounds overweight. He had no hesitation in taking the fight. He knew what was coming. Davis took out Lemos in round two of their lightweight bout in front of a sold-out crowd of 10,568 at The Scope Arena in Davis’ hometown of Norfolk, Virginia.

In round two, Davis dropped Lemos with a hard counter right. Seconds later, it was another even more powerful left hook that dumped Lemos on the deck. Davis finished off Lemos with another left that put him down and the fight was waved off as Lemos fell to the canvas at 1:08.

Davis 134.2 lbs of Norfolk, VA is 12-0 with eight knockouts. Lemos, 141.4 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 29-2.

“I had no hesitation. Me and my team, we stuck to our guns. We said if he comes in too much over we ain’t gonna fight. But he followed his game plan, and he didn’t come too much over (at the weight check on Friday morning), so we had a fight and we gave a spectacular night,” Davis said. “I didn’t feel no power in him. I actually sat back on the ropes one little second, and I let him throw his overhand that he loves and I felt it on my shoulder. And I looked at my brothers and gave them that face like, no, not enough (power). It ended in the second round so maybe he didn’t really get a chance to hit me.”

Troy Isley Decisions Tyler Howard

Troy Isley remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Tyler Howard in a middleweight bout.

Isley, 158.9 lbs oof Alexandria, VA won by scores of 99-91 and 98-92 and is now 14-0. Howard, 159.8 lbs of Crossville, TN is 20-2.

Isley landed 143 of 460 punches. Howard was 69 of 256.

Abdullah Mason had to get off the deck twice and came back to stop Yohan Vasquez in round two of their 10-round lightweight fight.

In the first minute of the fight, Vasquez dropped Mason for the first time in his career with a short left hand on the inside. Mason evened things up quickly as seconds later Mason dropped Vasquez with an uppercut. As Mason seemingly went for the finish, he walked into another short left hook and Mason sent down again. In round two, Mason dropped Vasquez with an uppercut to the body and the fight was over at 1:59.

Mason, 135.7 lbs of Cleveland is now 16-0 with eight knockouts. Vasquez, 134.2 lbs of Santiago, DR is 26-6.

Kelvin Davis remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Yeis Solano in a junior welterweight bout.

In round eight Davis put Solano on the deck with a straight right hand just before the final bell sounded.

Davis, 142.5 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 80-71 and 79-72 twice and is now 14-0. Solano, 142.7 lbs of Monteria, COL is 15-4.

Austin DeAnda pounded out an eight-round unanimous decision over DeAundre Pettus in a middleweight bout.

DeAnda, 159.9 lbs of Amhurst, VA won by scores of 78-74 and 77-75 twice and is now 16-0. Pettus, 158.3 lbs of South Carolina is 12-3.

Keon Davis made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Jalen Moore in a welterweight bout.

Davis, 148;7 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 40-36 on al cards and is now 1-0. Moore, 150.4 lbs of Dallas is 1-2.

Robert Merriweather III remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Eric Howard in a Junior Lightweight bout.

Merriweather, 131.7 lbs of Louisville, KY won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice and is now 8-0. Howard, 131.4 lbs of St. Louis is 6-3.

Raesse Aleem won a 10-round unanimous decision over Derlyn Hernandez in a featherweight bout.

In round three, Hernandez was cut over the left eye from an accidental headbutt. In round five, Aleem dropped Hernandez with a combination around the head.

Aleem, 126.9 lbs of Muskegon, MI won by scores of 100-89 on all cards and is now 21-1. Hernandez, 126.9 lbs of Dominican Republic is 12-3-1-1.

NORFOLK, Va. (Nov. 6, 2024) — The long-awaited homecoming for Keyshawn Davis (11-0, 7 KOs), the fighting pride of Norfolk and the Seven Cities, is in full swing. 

The lightweight contender and U.S. Olympic silver medalist will make his main event debut this Friday, Nov. 8, at Norfolk’s Scope Arena, where he’ll take on Argentina-born powerhouse Gustavo Lemos (29-1, 19 KOs) in a 10-round showdown.

Davis will top the most significant boxing card at the storied venue since Norfolk legend Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker defended his welterweight crown against Buddy McGirt in October 1994. At Wednesday’s press conference, Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander, Ph.D, joined the hometown hero on the dais. A sold-out crowd is expected for the 757’s latest superstar.

In the 10-round middleweight co-feature, Troy Isley (13-0, 5 KOs) will lock horns with Tyler Howard (20-1, 11 KOs). Since joining forces with Brian “BoMac” McIntyre before his win over Vladimir Hernandez last November, Isley has secured victories this year against Marcos Hernandez in March and longtime amateur rival Javier Martinez in June.

Davis-Lemos and Isley Howard will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ at approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The undercard — also streaming live on ESPN+ — will start at 6:20 p.m. ET/3:20 p.m. PT.

Keyshawn’s two brothers will also be featured. His older brother, junior welterweight contender Kelvin Davis (13-0, 7 KOs), will fight Yeis Solano (15-3, 10 KOs) in an eight-rounder, while his younger brother, Keon Davis, makes his professional debut in a four-round junior middleweight tilt versus Jalen Moore (1-1, 1 KO).

Promoted by Top Rank, the remaining tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.

This is what the fighters had to say at the press conference.

Keyshawn Davis 

“This means a lot to all three of us and, of course, to the city. There’s been a 30-year dry spell {of boxing}. And God had it written that we would come back to the city.”

“We’re doing this in a major way. We’ve already sold 10,000 tickets, and we’re going to sell some more. It’s going to be a treat on Friday.”

It’s super important for me to put on a show. Every single time I get in that ring, I love putting on shows. I like having fun, but I also like the people around me to have fun. I’m a dramatic fighter. I like doing the unexpected, so expect that Friday night.”

“It’s not going to be beautiful. There’s going to be blood everywhere. His nose might be a little lopsided after. But, I respect you, Gustavo. You are an amazing fighter. I appreciate you for taking the fight in my hometown, but I’m going to f**k you up.”

Gustavo Lemos

“I don’t see any difference between this and my last fights. I have a strong opponent, and I’m going to take advantage of this opportunity.”

“I’ve always said that he is a good opponent and that we’re going to have a beautiful fight.”

“I respect all my opponents, whether they are good or bad. I wish him good luck on Friday, and tell him to be careful.”

Troy Isley

“I expect a hometown fight like if I were fighting at home. Keyshawn’s family and my family. Everybody is going to be there. It’s going to be lit Friday night, and I can’t wait.”

“Our bond {with the Davis brothers} means everything. We started this thing together. We talked about everything we were going to do. And, we’re doing it now. And we’re going to continue to do it.”

“I’m going to f**k you up. That’s all that matters. He knows what’s up. He’s going to see Friday night. That’s why they call me the ‘Transformer.’”

Tyler Howard

“A win in a co-main event on ESPN+ against someone the caliber of Troy Isley, 2020 U.S. Olympian, is just another catapult into my career. It would be massive.”

“He keeps interrupting. But we’re gonna square up on Friday, bro. I’ll be there. I promise you, I’ll be there.”

“Listen, they call me ‘Hercules’ for a reason. If you come forward, you’re going to stop coming forward when you get rocked. It’s going to happen.”

Kelvin Davis

“It’s very special for all three of us. Keyshawn is having his first main event in Norfolk. And Keon is having his pro debut under his brother’s first main event. So, I’m proud of my little brothers. And it’s a dream come true.”

“I just have to be myself. It’s different now because we’re in Norfolk, my hometown. But I just have to be myself, and I’ll dominate in spectacular fashion.”

Keon Davis

“This means a lot to me. I’ve been thinking about this for my whole career. I’m happy to be here.”

“My experiences have made me a better fighter. It’s helped build my IQ. I appreciate guys like Terence Crawford, Shakur Stevenson, and Keyshawn Davis. They definitely helped me get better in the gym.”

Friday, November 8

FIRST BELL: LIVE on ESPN+ (6:20 p.m. ET/3:20 p.m. PT)
 

Keyshawn Davis vs. Gustavo Lemos, 10 Rounds,Davis’ WBO Intercontinental and WBC USA Lightweight Titles and IBF World Title Eliminator 

Raeese Aleem vs. Derlyn Hernandez, 10 Rounds, Featherweight

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN:Keyshawn vs. Lemos will be presented live this Friday, November 8, at Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia.

In the 10-round lightweight main event, Norfolk native Keyshawn Davis takes on the big-punching Gustavo Lemos.

Davis (11-0, 7 KOs), an Olympic silver medalist and world-ranked contender, is making his long-awaited homecoming as the No. 3 ranked lightweight by the WBO, IBF, and WBC. His rise came with dominant victories over former two-division world champion Jose Pedraza in February and Miguel Madueño in July. Now, he headlines the biggest boxing event Scope Arena has seen since the late Pernell Whitaker defended his welterweight world title against Buddy McGirt in October 1994.

Lemos (29-1, 19 KOs), from Buenos Aires, Argentina, returns to lightweight for the first time in over two years, last fighting at 135 pounds in 2022 when he stopped former world champion Lee Selby in five rounds. After a first-round knockout of Javier Jose Clavero in December 2023, Lemos made his U.S. debut in April, losing a close decision to Richardson Hitchins in an IBF junior welterweight world title eliminator. Now, he drops back to lightweight to face another unbeaten American contender.

The co-feature sees a 10-round middleweight showdown between unbeaten contender Troy “The Transformer” Isley and Tyler “Hercules” Howard. Isley (13-0, 5 KOs), who hails from Alexandria, Virginia, turned pro in February 2021 and represented Team USA at the Tokyo Olympics that summer. In his last fight, he won the vacant NABO belt with a convincing decision over former amateur rival Javier Martinez. Howard (20-1, 11 KOs), from Crossville, Tennessee, last fought in August 2023, edging Raul Salomon by majority decision.

Timothy Bradley, Jr., Mark Kriegel, and Bernardo Osuna will call the action.

Undercard action begins at 6:20 p.m. ET/ 3:20 p.m. PT, and the co-feature (Isley-Howard) will start at approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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Keyshawn vs. Lemos (All Times ET)

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NORFOLK, Va. (Oct. 7, 2024) — The 10-round middleweight showdown between unbeaten contender Troy “The Transformer” Isley and Tyler “Hercules” Howard has been elevated to the co-feature of the Keyshawn Davis-Gustavo Lemos lightweight main event on Friday, Nov. 8, at Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia.

The original co-feature — WBO welterweight world champion Brian Norman Jr. defending his title against Derrieck Cuevas — was postponed after Norman suffered a hand injury in training.

Promoted by Top Rank, the entire Davis-Lemos card will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S.

Isley (13-0, 5 KOs), who hails from Alexandria, Virginia, won the vacant NABO belt in his last fight with a convincing decision over former amateur rival Javier Martinez. Isley turned pro in February 2021 and represented Team USA at the Tokyo Olympics that summer. Howard (20-1, 11 KOs), from Crossville, Tennessee, last fought in August 2023, edging Raul Salomon by majority decision.

Undercard action includes Keyshawn’s older brother, junior welterweight contender Kelvin Davis (13-0, 7 KOs), returning in an eight-rounder against Yeis Solano (15-3, 10 KOs), while his younger brother, Keon Davis, makes his professional debut in a four-round welterweight bout. Lightweight prodigy Abdullah Mason (15-0, 13 KOs) looks to shine in an eight-rounder against Yohan Vasquez (26-5, 21 KOs), 19-year-old prospect Robert Meriwether III (7-0, 3 KOs) will face Eric Howard (6-2, 1 KO) in a six-rounder at junior lightweight, and Virginia native Austin Deanda (15-0, 10 KOs) hopes to extend his unbeaten run against South Carolina’s DeAundre Pettus (12-2, 7 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight tilt.

# # #

About SevenVenues
The City of Norfolk’s SevenVenues serves to link Norfolk’s residents, visitors and tourists to Norfolk’s rich cultural arts and entertainment community. Besides providing entertainment services, SevenVenues is also responsible for the maintenance, repair, management and operation of the City’s seven public assembly facilities which include: Scope Arena, Chrysler Hall, the Attucks Theatre, the Wells Theatre, Harrison Opera House, Harbor Park, and Open Air Events. To learn more, visit SevenVenues.com.

NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 23, 2024) — Tickets for the homecoming of Norfolk native Keyshawn Davis — who fights Gustavo Lemos in the 10-round lightweight main event on Friday, Nov. 8 at Scope Arena — go on sale Wednesday, Sept. 25, at 10 a.m. ET via Ticketmaster and the Scope Arena box office.

A special presale will begin TODAY at 10 a.m. ET, and it can be accessed by CLICKING HERE.

Davis (11-0, 7 KOs), an Olympic silver medal star and world-ranked contender, is bringing big-time boxing back to his beloved hometown. The card, which will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S., is Scope Arena’s most significant boxing event since Norfolk-born legend Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker defended his welterweight world title against Buddy McGirt in October 1994. Lemos (29-1, 19 KOs), from Buenos Aires, Argentina, is undefeated as a lightweight. In April, he lost a controversial decision to top junior welterweight contender Richardson Hitchins.

“I can’t wait to have the support of everyone from Norfolk, the Seven Cities, and all of Virginia. It’s going to be something special,” Davis said. “I always dreamed of fighting at Scope Arena, and I’m coming to give everyone in the 757 a spectacular show!”

The co-feature sees WBO welterweight world champion Brian Norman Jr. (26-0, 20 KOs) make his first title defense against Puerto Rico’s Derrieck Cuevas (27-1-1, 19 KOs).

Undercard action includes Keyshawn’s older brother, junior welterweight contender Kelvin Davis (13-0, 7 KOs), returning in an eight-rounder against Yeis Solano (15-3, 10 KOs), while his younger brother, Keon Davis, makes his professional debut in a four-round welterweight bout. Lightweight prodigy Abdullah Mason (15-0, 13 KOs) looks to shine in an eight-rounder against Yohan Vasquez (26-5, 21 KOs), and middleweight contender Troy “The Transformer” Isley (13-0, 5 KOs), Keyshawn’s Olympic teammate and a native of Alexandria, Virginia, hopes to thrill the home region fans in a 10-rounder versus Tyler “Hercules” Howard (20-1, 11 KOs).

# # #

About SevenVenues
The City of Norfolk’s SevenVenues serves to link Norfolk’s residents, visitors and tourists to Norfolk’s rich cultural arts and entertainment community. Besides providing entertainment services, SevenVenues is also responsible for the maintenance, repair, management and operation of the City’s seven public assembly facilities which include: Scope Arena, Chrysler Hall, the Attucks Theatre, the Wells Theatre, Harrison Opera House, Harbor Park, and Open Air Events. To learn more, visit SevenVenues.com.

NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 5, 2024) — Keyshawn Davis is ready to put on a show for his city. The Norfolk native will take on Argentina’s Gustavo Lemos in the 10-round lightweight main event at Scope Arena on Friday, Nov 8. It’s the most significant boxing event at the storied venue since Norfolk legend Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker defended his welterweight crown against Buddy McGirt in October 1994.

The undercard will feature the other members of “DB3.” Keyshawn’s older brother, rising junior welterweight Kelvin “Night Night” Davis (13-0, 7 KOs), fights Yeis Solano (15-3, 10 KOs) in an eight-rounder. Keyshawn’s younger brother, U.S. Olympic Trials champion Keon Davis, will make his pro debut in a four-round welterweight contest.

The Davis Brothers were joined on stage by Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander, in addition to undefeated middleweight Troy Isley (13-0, 5 KOs), who will fight Tyler Howard (20-1, 11 KOs) in a 10-rounder.

Promoted by Top Rank, ticket information will be announced shortly.

This is what the fighters had to say at Thursday’s press conference.

Keyshawn Davis

“This is an honor. I appreciate everyone for coming out. Top Rank is here and putting on this show for us, for the town, and for the 757. It’s going to be a Michael Jordan story on November 8.”

“This event is bigger than us. I want to reach as many people as I can with this event so that the people from this town know that you can make it from here. There are resources here. And we’re bringing resources here, like a gym that kids can go to. I want this event to reach many people. I want the Seven Cities to be on the map, so they can be like Atlanta, New York, or Chicago.”

“I hand-picked this opponent because I know he can fight. He’s a good fighter. But I’m a dangerous fighter. Just know that if you come with that, I’m going to come with that, too. Gustavo Lemos is going to try all that extra stuff, but ya’ll know how we rock out here. Norfolk is not going for any of that. I’m going to tone him right on down, and we are going to have a fun night on Friday, November 8.”

Kelvin Davis

“This is truly a blessing. We definitely talked about this when we were kids. We dreamed about it. And it’s finally here. It hasn’t hit me yet. We’re really bringing it to Norfolk, 757. It hasn’t been done since ‘Sweat Pea’ Pernell Whitaker. And we’re trying to follow what he set for us. We’ve got his family out here supporting us. And his legacy will live out through us.”

“‘Sweat Pea’ used to come to the amateur fights and watch us. He would watch the amateur talent. And he would give us a few pointers after our fights. He would tell us things to get better. That was a blessing to have a legend watch us fight as an amateur.”

“You can expect fireworks. We’re fighting at home. And I’m really comfortable at home. So whoever comes in this territory is getting knocked out.”

Keon Davis

“This is a great opportunity. It’s going to be a great night. I’m going to make my pro debut. I’m coming for the stoppage. I’m coming to knock somebody out.”

“I feel like this is the perfect time to turn pro. My brother is doing his first homecoming, and I feel like it would be perfect to turn pro on the same card as them. It’s going to be great.”

Troy Isley

“Coming into the pros, I kind of lost my confidence. So, being around these three and them telling me I’m good enough has helped so much. They told me I shouldn’t doubt myself. So, being around them during the last three camps has helped a lot.”

“It’s going to be a great show. Ya’ll are gonna want to tune in. All four of us are going to put on a show. Don’t miss out.”

NORFOLK, Va. (Sept. 4, 2024) — Keyshawn “The Businessman” Davis is closing in on a world title shot, but first, he must defend his home turf. The lightweight contender and U.S. Olympic silver medalist will face Argentina-born puncher Gustavo Lemos in the 10-round main event on Friday, Nov. 8, at Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia.

In the world championship co-feature, WBO welterweight king Brian Norman Jr. will defend his crown against Puerto Rican puncher Derrieck Cuevas. 

The undercard will feature the other members of “DB3.” Keyshawn’s older brother, rising junior welterweight Kelvin “Night Night” Davis (13-0, 7 KOs), fights Yeis Solano (15-3, 10 KOs) in an eight-rounder. Keyshawn’s younger brother, U.S. Olympic Trials champion Keon Davis, will make his pro debut in a four-round welterweight contest.

The entire Davis-Lemos card will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+. 

Promoted by Top Rank, ticket information will be announced shortly.

“As a young kid growing up in Norfolk, I dreamed of accomplishing enough to headline a card at Scope Arena one day. My boxing idol is the legendary Pernell ‘Sweet Pea’ Whitaker, and I want to pack that arena like he used to. He’s the greatest from my city, and I’m honored to continue that legacy,” Keyshawn Davis said. “I can’t wait to put on a spectacular show against a tough opponent in Gustavo Lemos. Everyone from the 757 will be in my corner.”

“Norfolk has been waiting for Keyshawn Davis to come home for years. This is going to be a great night of fights headlined by a real competitive main event,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “Lemos is full of confidence, and Keyshawn will have to be in top form on November 8 at Scope Arena.”

Davis (11-0, 7 KOs) enters his homecoming celebration ranked No. 3 at lightweight by the WBO, IBF, and WBC. He earned those rankings with two devastating showings to begin the year, starting with February’s sixth-round TKO of former two-division world champion Jose Pedraza. Five months later, he thrilled the crowd at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, dominating Mexican puncher Miguel Madueño over 10 rounds. He now makes his headlining debut in the biggest boxing event Scope Arena has seen since Whitaker defended his welterweight crown against Buddy McGirt in October 1994.

Lemos (29-1, 19 KOs), from Buenos Aires, Argentina, returns to the lightweight ranks for the first time in over two years. He last fought at 135 pounds in March 2022, when he stopped British former world champion Lee Selby in five rounds in front of his hometown fans. Lemos returned to action in December 2023, starching Javier Jose Clavero in the opening round. That set the stage for his American debut in April. Lemos traveled to Las Vegas for an IBF junior welterweight world title eliminator and was on the short end of a 12-round decision to American standout Richardson Hitchins. While many experts believed Lemos deserved the nod, he now moves down five pounds to face another unbeaten American mega-talent.

Lemos said, “This is a big occasion for Keyshawn Davis, and I am coming to Norfolk to spoil the party. He picked the wrong guy. On November 8, he’ll find out the truth. He’s not on my level.”

Norman (26-0, 20 KOs) is boxing’s youngest male world champion, a native of Atlanta who turned pro in 2018 at the age of 17. The 23-year-old made his Top Rank debut in early 2023 and was unbeaten in four fights with the company before May’s showdown with Giovani Santillan. The heavily favored Santillan was fighting in front of his hometown fans in San Diego, and Norman pulled off the upset win via 10th-round knockout. He won the WBO interim world title with that stunner and was elevated to full champion in August.

Cuevas (27-1-1, 19 KOs), the WBO No. 7 contender, enters his first world title fight riding a four-fight knockout streak that began in December 2022 with a second-round blitzing of Esneiker Correa. He has punched his passport for his last three fights, which took place in Panama in 2023. Last December, Cuevas knocked down Marlon Aguas in the fifth round en route to a sixth-round TKO triumph.

The undercard is also scheduled to include the following young talents:

• Rising lightweight sensation Abdullah Mason (15-0, 13 KOs) looks to take the next step against Dominican-born puncher Yohan Vasquez (26-5, 21 KOs) in an eight-rounder. The 20-year-old Cleveland native is 4-0 with four knockouts this year, all in four rounds or less.
   
• Keyshawn’s Olympic teammate, middleweight contender, and Washington, D.C. native Troy “The Transformer” Isley (13-0, 5 KOs) returns to his home region roots in a 10-rounder against Tyler “Hercules” Howard (20-1, 11 KOs). Isley picked up the NABO title in June with a unanimous decision over then-unbeaten brawler Javier Martinez.
   
• Middleweight prospect Austin DeAnda (14-0, 10 KOs), who hails from Amherst, Virginia, will take on DeAundre Pettus (11-2, 6 KOs) in an eight-rounder.
                                                                       

# # #
About SevenVenues
The City of Norfolk’s SevenVenues serves to link Norfolk’s residents, visitors and tourists to Norfolk’s rich cultural arts and entertainment community. Besides providing entertainment services, SevenVenues is also responsible for the maintenance, repair, management and operation of the City’s seven public assembly facilities which include: Scope Arena, Chrysler Hall, the Attucks Theatre, the Wells Theatre, Harrison Opera House, Harbor Park, and Open Air Events. To learn more, visit SevenVenues.com.

NEWARK, NJ–Shakur Stevenson retained the WBC Lightweight Title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Artem Harutyunanyan in front of 8,412 fans at The Prudential Center in Newark.

Stevenson and Harutyunyan each took turns pushing the pace with Stevenson countering very nicely. Late in the fight, Stevenson started to break down Harutyunyan with a body assault. Stevenson was never testes and coasted to the victory by scores of 119-109, 118-110 and 116-112.

Stevenson landed 170 of 446 punches. Harutyunyan was 74 of 423.

Stevenson, 134.1 lbs of Newark, NJ is 22-0. Harutyunyan, 134.8 lbs of Hamburg, GER is 12-2.

Stevenson

“It’s kind of hard to prove it if you don’t have a fighter who wants to fight back. He’s just trying to make sure he survives. He’s a good fighter. He’s tough. He’s strong. I would’ve wanted him to try a little harder, so that way it could be a more fun fight.”

“I have to cut off the ring a bit more. He’d go one way and then go the other way, so I gotta go back in the gym and work on cutting off the gym.”

“I think the boos were because of him. He didn’t try to make the fight.”

“We’ll see {what’s next}. Like I said, I want to fight the best fighters in boxing. That’s how you’ll see the best version of me. Put me in the ring with somebody else who wants to fight back and compete. That’s when you’ll get the best out of me.”

Harutyunyan

“Of course it was fun. Boxing is not a game. You have to fight. You get hit and have to hit back. It’s normal.”

“He belongs with the top fighters in this weight category, like me also.”

Conceicao Decisions Foster to Win Junior Lightweight Title

In his fourth try, at a world title, Robson Conceicao won the WBC Junior Lightweight title with a debatable 12-rpund split decision over defending champion O’Shaquie Foster.

The fight was void of sustainable action as neither fighter seized control. Fioster out landed Conceicao 109 (of 435)-78 (of 701), but the two of the three judges saw the fight for the Brazilian challenger 116-112 and 115-113. A third judge saw it 115-113 for Foster.

Conceicao, 129.5 lbs of Bahia, BRA is 19-2-1. Foster, 128.8 lbs of Ornage, TEX is 22-3.

CONCEICAO

“This is for my daughter. I promised this to my daughter, and I was able to fulfill that promise. I’m the champion of the world.”

“I do think I won the fight. I landed way more. He didn’t come to fight. He was running and running. I was the winner.”

FOSTER

“I thought it was shutout. I don’t know.”

“I don’t know, man. I thought it was easy. I thought it was an easy fight. I didn’t get touched except with a headbutt. I don’t know, man.”

“I’ll be back. But I want the rematch. They stole this from me. They stole this fight from me. I just wanted to show the world I could bang it out, and if I want to, I don’t have to get touched. I guess it wasn’t good enough for the judges.”

Keyshawn Davis Decisions Madueno

Keyshawn Davis remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Miguel Madueno in a lightweight bout.

It was a foul filled fight, but no points were taken away.

Davis landed 194 of 398 punches. Madueno was 63 of 461.

Davis, 134.8 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 99-91 on all cards and is now 11-0. Maduwno, 134.7 lbs of Mexico is now 31-3.

Keyshawn Davis

“He’s a rough type of a guy, a real physical type of guy. We were doing a lot of rough tactics in there, just trying to get under each other’s skin.”

“ We were both tough in there, and neither of our wills got broke.”

“I know {WBO lightweight champion} Denys Berinchyk mentioned my name. I’m definitely targeting Berinchyk.”

Abdullah Mason Destroys Luis LeBron in 3

Abdullah Mason took out Luis LeBron in round three of their eight-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Mason dropped Lebron with a hard left. With the face of Lebron bloodied, Mason dropped Lebron again with a right hook to the top of the head. In round three, Mason continued to pour it on as he landed a ripping combination that forced a stoppage at 1:18.

Mason, 134.8 lbs of Cleveland is 14-0 with 12 knockouts. LeBron, 135.8 lbs of San Juan, PR is 20-4-1.

“I guess we fed him a little bit of smoke, and he didn’t have the appetite for it.”

What’s next

“A lot of people say they’re ready to fight, but are they? Do they want the smoke?”

Eridson Garcia won a 10-round unanimous decision over William Foster III in a junior lightweight bout.

Garcia, 130.7 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 19-1. Foster, 130.4 lbs of New Haven, CT is 17-2.

Keith Colon stopped Hunter Turbyfill in round two of their four-round featherweight bout.

In round two, Colon dropped Trbyfill with a hard combination to the body. Turbyfill was reeling and a blistering flurry of punches ended the fight at 2:03.

Colon, 125.3 lbs of Newark is 1-0 with one knockout. Turblyfill, 124.1 lbs of Memphis, TN is 4-2.

Kelvin Davis won an eight-round majority decision over Kevin Johnson in a junior middleweight bout.

Davis, 142.9 lbs of Norfolk, VA won by scores of 78-73 twice and 76-76 and is now 13-0. Johnson, 142.9 lbs of Detroit is 12-4.

Ali Feliz remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Robinson Perez in a heavyweight bout.

In round three, Perez was cut around the right eye.

Feliz, 219.5 lbs of Danbury, CT won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 3-0. Perez, 245.1 lbs of Southbridge, MA is 2-1.

NEWARK, NJ (July 4, 2024) – Camponovo Sports’ hard-hitting lightweight slugger Miguel Madueño (31-2, 28 KOs), from Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico, is set to face the undefeated 2020 USA Olympian Keyshawn Davis (10-0, 7 KOs), from Norfolk, Virginia, in a thrilling 10-round bout. This highly anticipated fight, promoted by Top Rank, will take place on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, and will be broadcast live on ESPN.

Madueño, known for his knockout power in both hands and relentless pressure fighting, enters the ring as the underdog against the rising star Davis. Despite the odds, Madueño is determined to prove himself and deliver a major upset.

“I know I’m the underdog going into this fight, but that’s exactly the kind of challenge I thrive on,” said Miguel Madueño. “Keyshawn Davis is a great fighter, but I’m ready to give him his first loss and show the everyone what I’m capable of.”

Promoter Alex Camponovo is confident in Madueño’s abilities and expects a tough, grueling fight that will test both fighters. He believes his fighter has what it takes to come out on top.

“This is going to be a hard-fought battle between two incredibly talented boxers,” Camponovo stated. “Miguel Madueño has the power and the heart to come out on top, and I believe he will emerge victorious in this showdown.”

A win against a highly touted prospect like Davis would be a significant boost for Madueño’s career, positioning him for even bigger opportunities in the lightweight division. Madueño emphasized the importance of this fight.

“A victory over Keyshawn Davis would be a game-changer for my career,” concluded Madueño. “It would put me in line for major fights and show everyone that I belong with the elite lightweights in the division.”

Boxing fans can expect an action-packed night at the Prudential Center, with Madueño vs. Davis being one of the highlights of the event. Be sure to tune in on ESPN to catch this exciting clash of lightweight warriors.

NEWARK, N.J. (May 7, 2024) — Newark’s three-division king is ready to defend his crown on native turf.

Shakur Stevenson will make the inaugural defense of his WBC lightweight world championship against Armenian-born German Olympian Artem Harutyunyan on Saturday, July 6, at Prudential Center in his hometown of Newark, New Jersey.

In the co-feature, O’Shaquie Foster will defend his WBC junior lightweight world title against Brazilian Olympic gold medalist and three-time world title challenger Robson Conceição.

In the 10-round lightweight televised opener, Keyshawn Davis will take on Mexican veteran Miguel Madueño.

Stevenson-Harutyunyan, Foster-Conceição, and Davis-Madueño will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN, Deportes and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Universum Boxing, tickets go on sale Wednesday, May 22 at 2 p.m. ET via Ticketmaster.com.

“There is a unique connection between Shakur and the City of Newark, and we are thrilled he’s returning for another hometown appearance against a tough opponent in Artem Harutyunyan,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “O’Shaquie Foster does not shy away from the best opposition, and I know Robson Conceição is motivated to pull off the upset. And with Keyshawn Davis on the card against a rugged contender in Madueño, this is quite the tripleheader we have in store in Brick City.”

“To once again welcome back Top Rank, ESPN, and Shakur Stevenson for the third time in two years is a great honor for Prudential Center and the entire city of Newark,” said Dylan Wanagiel, VP of Sports Properties & Special Events for Prudential Center. “We look forward to hosting an unforgettable evening filled with history-making moments in the heart of New Jersey as Shakur takes on a formidable opponent in Artem Harutyunyan for the WBC Lightweight Title.  Following consecutive record-breaking events with Shakur headlining, we are excited to showcase the sweet science in our world class venue, further solidifying Newark’s reputation for marquee events around the world.”

Stevenson (21-0, 10 KOs) has won world titles in three weight classes during his seven-year run. After securing a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics, he made his pro debut in 2017 and swiftly moved up the ranks. He captured his first world title by defeating Joet Gonzalez for the WBO featherweight strap in October 2019. Two years later, he stopped Jamel Herring in 10 rounds to earn the WBO title at 130 pounds. The 26-year-old southpaw unified world titles by handing then-WBC champion Oscar Valdez his first loss in April 2022. Stevenson then claimed two consecutive victories at Prudential Center by defeating Conceição that September and stopping Japanese contender Shuichiro Yoshino in six last April. Hee outpointed Dominican puncher Edwin De Los Santos last November to become the WBC lightweight world champion.

Stevenson said, “It feels good to be going back home to Newark, where they appreciate a young legend, and to make my first title defense at 135. On July 6, Down Goes Artem!”

Harutyunyan (12-1, 7 KOs) captured an Olympic bronze medal for Germany in 2016. He started his pro career the following year and went 12-0 in his adopted country with triumphs over Samuel Molina in September 2021 and Humberto Galindo in June 2022. Last July, he made his U.S. debut in a competitive showdown against Frank Martin. The 33-year-old had success with his aggression and right hand, though Martin rallied late to win a narrow unanimous decision. Harutyunyan will have his first world title shot against his second consecutive southpaw rival.

Harutyunyan said, “I respect Shakur Stevenson as a champion, but I’m coming to shock his hometown fans and win the WBC lightweight championship. This is the opportunity of a lifetime, and I will take full advantage of it. This will be my second fight in the U.S. I’ve learned and progressed since my loss to Frank Martin.”

Foster (22-2, 12 KOs) had a distinguished amateur career with more than 100 fights and an alternate spot in the 2012 U.S. Olympic team before entering the paid ranks later that year. He encountered two early-career setbacks, including a split decision defeat to Rolando Chinea in July 2016. He returned more than a year later with renowned trainer Bobby Benton and has since gone 12-0. Last February, he won the WBC world title with a points verdict over two-division world champion Rey Vargas before a dramatic 12th-round knockout win against Eduardo “Rocky” Hernandez in October. The following month, Foster signed a long-term promotional deal with Top Rank. He returns after securing a well-earned split decision over Abraham Nova in February.

Foster said, “I’m excited to be back for my third title defense. Conceição is a great opponent who has been in the ring with a lot of top fighters, but come July 6, we will be ready. I will keep proving that I’m one of the best fighters in the world.”

Conceição (18-2-1, 9 KOs), Brazil’s inaugural Olympic boxing gold medalist, turned pro in November 2016. His only losses have come against unbeaten world champions, including a close decision against then-WBC champ Valdez in September 2021. Following the setback to Stevenson, Conceição’s June 2022 showdown against Nicolas Polanco ended in a no contest. He followed up by challenging three-weight world champion Emanuel Navarrete last November, rising twice from the canvas and battling to a majority draw. In April, he registered a seventh-round TKO against Jose Guardado in April.

Conceição said, “I’m really looking forward to this fight against O’Shaquie Foster. This title is something I’ve been aiming for a long time, and I’m not going to let this opportunity slip away. I can guarantee that I’ll give my best; I’ll leave everything in the ring. Blood, sweat, and dedication—everything will be invested in this title bout. I’m ready to face any challenge that comes my way. Let’s go all in towards victory! Brazil!”

Davis (10-0, 7 KOs), from Norfolk, Virginia, made a quick transition from prospect to contender. After going 3-0 as a pro, he earned a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. In November 2021, he inked a long-term promotional pact with Top Rank and has amassed seven wins since. In 2023, he stopped Anthony Yigit in nine rounds in April and vanquished Francesco Patera via 10-round decision in July. After his October win over Nahir Albright was overturned to a no contest due to a positive marijuana test, Davis returned with renewed vigor in February to dispatch former two-weight world champion Jose Pedraza in six. Madueño (31-2, 28 KOs) tallied a three-fight winning spree after a decision defeat to Jezreel Corrales in March 2022. The streak was halted by a points setback against Canadian contender Steve Claggett last November, but he bounced back quickly by decisioning Justin Pauldo in February.

Davis said, “Madueño is a tough fighter with more than 30 pro fights, and I have a lot of respect for what he brings to the table. I love fighting in Newark. The fans there are special, and I am going to feed off their energy and put on a show.”

Undercard action — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ — includes the return of 20-year-old lightweight prodigy Abdullah Mason and unbeaten heavyweight prospect Damian “Polish Hussar” Knyba.

Mason (13-0, 11 KOs) will make his third 2024 appearance in an eight-rounder against Puerto Rican veteran Luis Lebron. The Cleveland native went 5-0 with four knockouts last year before stopping Benjamin Gurment in two in February. He is coming off a fourth-round TKO win over Ronal Ron in April. Lebron (20-5-1, 13 KOs) has given stiff tests to Duke Ragan and Henry Lebron and stopped Giovanni Gutierrez in February.  

Knyba (13-0, 7 KOs), a 6-foot-7 behemoth with an 86-inch reach, returns in an eight-rounder versus Richard Lartey (16-6, 13 KOs). He joined the Top Rank stable in January 2023 and scored a TKO win over Curtis Harper that April followed by decisions over Helaman Olguin in June and Michael Coffie in December.

# # #

ABOUT PRUDENTIAL CENTER

Prudential Center is the world-class sports and entertainment venue located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. Opened in October 2007, the state-of-the-art arena is the home of the National Hockey League’s (NHL) three-time Stanley Cup Champion New Jersey Devils, Seton Hall University’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball program, and more than 210 concerts, family shows and special events each year. Ranked in the Top 5 worldwide by Pollstar, Billboard and Venues Today, Prudential Center is recognized as one of the premier venues in the United States, and hosts over 2 million guests annually. For more information about Prudential Center, visit https://www.prucenter.com/ and follow the arena on Facebook, X and Instagram @PruCenter. Prudential Center is a HBSE property.

It wasn’t pretty, but Teofimo Lopez won a 12-round unanimous decision over Jamaine Ortiz to retain his WBO Junior Welterweight title at the Michelob Ultra Arena inside Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

The fight took it’s shape early as Ortiz wanted to circle the ring and not do much on offense. Lopez was following Ortiz around, but he was at least trying to make the fight. The fight was a frustrating watch, as the movement of Ortiz did not give Lopez any opportunities for sustained offense.

In round seven, Ortiz was cut above the left eye from an accidental headbutt In the same round, Lopez began to bleed from his mouth. The fight continued it’s defensive struggle theme as Lopez would land glancing blows, but it was more then what Ortiz was able amount.

Lopez landed 78 of 364 punches. Ortiz was 80 of 409.

Lopez, 139.6 lbs of Brooklyn won by scores of 117-111 and 115-113 twice to raise his record to 20-1. Ortiz, 139.6 lbs of Worcester, MA is 17-2-1.

Keyshawn Davis Stops Jose Pedraza in 6

Jose Pedraza remained undefeated bt stopping former two-division world champion Jose Pedraza in round six of their 10-round lightweight bout.

Davis was dominant from the second round on as he worked the body and that slowed the veteran Pedraza who was fighting at lightweight for the first time in four years.

In round six, Davis landed a body shot that set up a big right over the top that hurt Pedraza. Davis jumped on his prey and unloaded with some hard shots that forced Pedraza back on the ropes and the ref saved a bloody Pedraza as it was stopped at

Davis, 134.7 lbs of Norfolk, CA is 10-0 with seven knockouts. Pedraza, 134.5 lbs of Cidra, PR is 29-6-1.

Rene Tellez Giron won a eight-round unanimous decision over George Acosta in a lightweight bout.

In round five, Giron dropped Acosta with an overhand right. Giron was cut in the back of his head from a headbutt.

Giron landed 146 of 486 punches. Acosta was 125 of 422.

Giron, 132 lbs of Quertarro, MEX won by scores of 79-72, 78-73 and 76-75 and is now 19-3. Acosta, 131.3 lbs of Whittier, CA is 17-2.

Javier Martinez remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Raul Salomon in a middleweight bout.

Martinez, 161.6 lbs of Milwaukee, WI won by scores of 79-73 and 78-74 and is now 10-0-1. Salomon, 164.4 lbs of Long Beach, CA

Hot-Shot prospect Abdullah Mason scored a spectacular second round stoppage over Benjamin Gurment in round two of an eight round lightweight bout.

In round two, Mason landed three booming lefts that drove Gurment into the corner that was ruled a knockdown. The fighters met in the center in the ring and Mason landed a devastating left that put Gurment down on his back and the fight was stopped at 1:29.

Mason, 135.3 lbs is 12-0 with 10 knockouts. Gurment, 136.8 lbs of Fort Worth, TX is 8-1-3.

Charlie Sheehy remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Abdel Sauceda in lightweight bout.

Sheehy, 135.7 lbs of Brisbane, CA won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 9-0. Sauceda, 135.4 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 12-4.

Alan Garcia made short work of Tomas Ornelas by registering a 51 second knockout in a six-round lightweight bout.

Garcia dropped Ornelas in the opening seconds with a left hook. Garcia ended things with three punch combo that finished off by a left to the body and the fight was stopped at

Garcia, 136.6 lbs of Ulysses, KS is now 11-0 with nine knockouts. Ornelas, 134.6 lbs of Denver is now 7-4.

Lemir Isom-Riley stopped Antonio Zeoeda in round three of their six-round heavyweight bout.

In round three, Isom-Riley dropped Zepeda as Zepeda took a knee. Moments later, Isom-Riley scored a second knockdown after a flurry and the fight was stopped by the corner at 1:28.

Isom-Riley, 257 lbs of Harrisburg, PA is 4-2 with two knockdowns. Zepeda, 299.7 lbs of Las Vegas is 6-2.

Art Barrera Jr. stopped Michael Portales in the opening round of their four-round junior welterweight fight.

In round one, Barrera landed a huge left hook that put Portales on the canvas and the fight was stopped at 1:41.

Barrera, 141 lbs of Linwoood, CA is 3-0 with three knockouts. Portales, 140 lbs of San Jose, CA is 3-3-1.

LAS VEGAS, Nevada (Feb. 6, 2024) — The “Showman” is ready to kick off Big Game Weekend by settling unfinished business. 

Teofimo Lopez (19-1, 13 KOs) will defend his WBO and Ring Magazine junior welterweight titles against Jamaine Ortiz (17-1-1, 8 KOs) on Thursday, Feb. 8, at Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

In the 10-round lightweight co-feature, U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis (9-0, 6 KOs) faces Puerto Rican former two-division world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (29-5-1, 14 KOs).

Lopez-Ortiz & Davis-Pedraza will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT) will feature a gamut of up-and-coming talents:

Javier “Milwaukee Made” Martinez (9-0-1, 3 KOs) will take on Raul Salomon (12-2, 10 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight clash.

Unbeaten lightweights Abdullah Mason (11-0, 9 KOs) and Charlie Sheehy (8-0, 5 KOs) will return in separate eight-round fights. Mason will square off against Benjamin Gurment (8-0-3, 5 KOs), while Sheehy faces Abdel Sauceda (12-3, 8 KOs).

Lightweight prospect Alan “Kid Kansas” Garcia (10-0, 8 KOs) will risk his unbeaten record in a six-rounder versus Tomas Ornelas (7-3, 5 KOs).

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Takeover Promotions and CES Boxing, tickets are on sale now at AXS.com. 

At Tuesday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Teofimo Lopez

“I’m the big clown of the sport of boxing. I’ve got to make everyone laugh. I’ve got a big nose for a reason.”

“It’s great to be back. I’m glad to see the talents coming through. But this is only the beginning for me. I’m 26 years young. I’m not even in my prime yet.”

“We have a tremendous dance partner. He’s wanted this fight for awhile. And we’ll do our thing.”

“I’ve been to the top before at 135, beating the most decorated fighter at the time. Nobody wanted to face him. Now we’re back again. I beat the guy nobody wanted to fight again. So, I’ve looked it as I’ve gained it, lost it and I’ve gained it back again. I know what it takes to be great, which means to respect the ring and respect what it means to be a champion.”

Jamaine Ortiz

“There hasn’t been respect. It’s a fight. I’m coming here to take his head off. It is what it is.
There is a calm before the storm. you’ve got to know to keep control of your mind and body, especially before you go into battle.”

“I feel like I’m going to be the guy having the clown do whatever I want to do. It’s going to be that kind of show.”

“When I win Thursday night, it’s going to be a great night. I’m going to remember it for the rest of my life. It will be the day I became a world champion. It will be another step in my goal to getting other great fights and to continue building my legacy.”  

Keyshawn Davis

“Pedraza said that he has all the experience. And he did fight a lot of great fighters. But he hasn’t fought me before. I don’t care about all the experience he has because he hasn’t fought me yet. So he’s going to see everything I bring to the table.”

“He’s a great fighter. He’s been in a lot of great fights for the sport of boxing. And I believe he’s good for the sport of boxing. But I feel like he’s got the biggest challenge yet in front of him. A young, hungry, real fighter. When that bell starts, I won’t be here to play. It’s going to be an action-packed fight. I’m definitely coming out victorious, but the fans are going to be the winners that night.”Jose Pedraza

“At this point of my career, it doesn’t matter who is my opponent. Keyshawn Davis is an excellent boxer. He doesn’t have the experience that I do in professional boxing, but he had a great trajectory in amateur boxing. He is an excellent boxer. It doesn’t matter what the record is. You have to face those challenges. It doesn’t matter if he’s a prospect, a veteran or a contender. You have to accept it. Let’s fight.”

“I prepared very well for this fight. I’ve come to do my job. I don’t look the result. But don’t misinterpret me. I do expect a great victory. But I don’t expect a particular result. I simply go to do a good job for the fans, so that they can leave happy.”Javier Martinez

“I represent Milwaukee so much because there aren’t a lot of boxers who come out of there. There’s actually a lot of talent there. But a lot don’t make it out. They don’t get those opportunities. So, I represent for them.”

Abdullah Mason

“It’s amazing. Everybody in my family pushes each other to be better. Not just in boxing. But to be better brothers and family members.”

“I’m going to take advantage of this spotlight. And I’m going to get hungrier and hungrier. We’re on our way to the top.”

Charlie Sheehy

“I love fighting in Las Vegas. I always dreamed of fighting here as a kid, so to be here where great fighters have been is good. I want to come out an execute a great boxing game plan. I want to hit and not get hit. I’ve been working with my trainer, Javiel Centeno, so hopefully you will all see improvements in this fight.”

Alan Garcia

“I always stay in the gym. I like to continue learning. I stay disciplined and do anything to keep my body ready. Staying focused is never a problem for me. I know what I’m here to do.”

Thursday, February 8
 

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT)
 

Teofimo Lopez vs. Jamaine Ortiz, 12 rounds, Lopez’s WBO and Ring Magazine Junior Welterweight World Titles 

Keyshawn Davis vs. Jose Pedraza, 10 rounds, lightweight
 

ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT)
 

George Acosta vs. Rene Tellez Giron, 8 rounds, lightweight 

Art Barrera Jr. vs. Michael Portales, 4 rounds, junior welterweight

LAS VEGAS (Jan 31, 2024) — U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis is eager for a world title opportunity, but first he’ll need to get past a two-division world champion.

Davis will take on Jose “Sniper” Pedraza in a 10-round lightweight battle on Thursday, Feb. 8 at Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

Davis-Pedraza will serve as the co-feature to the junior welterweight showdown between WBO and Ring Magazine world champion Teofimo Lopez and Jamaine Ortiz. 

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Takeover Promotions and CES Boxing, tickets are on sale now at AXS.com. 

Lopez-Ortiz and Davis-Pedraza will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

Davis (9-0, 6 KOs), from Norfolk, Virginia, has graduated from prospect to contender as he continues to make his case for a world title shot. The 24-year-old is coming off an active 2023 in which he stopped Anthony Yigit via ninth-round TKO in April and shut out Francesco Patera by 10-round decision in July. In October, he defeated Philadelphia-born contender Nahir Albright via majority decision that was later ruled a no contest. Pedraza (29-5-1, 14 KOs), a two-division world champion from Puerto Rico, returns to lightweight following a junior welterweight campaign that included tough fights against Jose Zepeda and Lindolfo Delgado.

Following a recent training session at the Top Rank Gym in Las Vegas, this is what Davis had to say:

“I’m dialed in and focused. I’m pushing every day, training two or three times each day. Running, sparring, strength and conditioning. The work I’m putting in is starting to show.”

“I’m not counting down the days until the fight, I’m making these days count. This fight is only the beginning of how far I can go in my career.”

“This is a big fight for me and the only thing I can focus on. I bet Pedraza is doing the same thing. Fighting a guy like him, who has won multiple world titles, has made me lock in even more.”

“I give a lot of credit to Pedraza for taking this fight. He has fought a lot of former world champions with a ton of accolades and more fights and experience than me. Pedraza has been a main event fighter and will give me an opportunity to show everyone what I’m truly capable of doing. After I beat Pedraza, I become a main event fighter.”