LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – Ryan Garcia aims to make the first defense of the WBC welterweight title he claimed back in February as he takes on Connor Benn in the Paramount+ main event of the Mexican Independence Day weekend event at the T-Mobile Arena on Saturday night. Fighters for the nine-bout card weighed-in officially at the Meta APEX early on Friday morning, with the ceremonial weigh-in taking place outdoors for the public at the Paramount+ Plaza at T-Mobile Arena later in the afternoon. 

Just cracking into or on the cusp of a top ten pound-for-pound ranking depending on who you ask, Garcia (25-2, 20 KOs) of Los Angeles, California rebounded from a wide decision defeat to Rolly Romero in his welterweight debut last year with a dominant unanimous decision over Mario Barrios to claim the title this past February. 

Benn (25-1, 14 KOs) of Ilford, Essex, United Kingdom returns to the 147-pound division where he began his career for this one fight in an attempt to pick up the WBC title by unseating Garcia. Benn, the WBC #1 ranked welterweight, fought just a couple pounds over the division maximum for his last fight in April, a wide decision over fading former champion Regis Prograis, but has not made the limit since 2022. 

Benn’s weight had been the topic of conversation in the lead-up and during fight week in Las Vegas, talk that ended up being all for not as Benn weighed-in one full pound under the welterweight limit at 146 pounds. 

“He’s setting up excuses, [talking] about going to 168,” said Garcia of Benn’s future plans at Friday’s pre-fight press conference. “This is a title fight at 147.”

Garcia acknowledged the validity of a story reported by multiple outlets that he had appealed to the Nevada State Athletic Commission to allow the fight to still be fought with eight ounce gloves whether either fighter made the 147-pound limit or not. 

“It was more of a precautionary thing in case he don’t make weight to able to still use eight ounce gloves,” said Garcia. “That is what I always fight at, 147, and I don’t want to have to fight with ten ounce. It is more deadlier with eight ounces anyway.” 

Benn seemed unbothered yesterday by Garcia’s gamesmanship or the suggestion that he may fail to make the 147-pound welterweight limit. 

“I have never missed weight in ten years,” said Benn. “You are talking to someone who has never missed weight, as opposed to someone that has missed weight previously multiple times. So I don’t understand why this has been brought up.” 

Garcia weighed-in at 145 ½ at Friday morning’s official weigh-in. 

Widely-regarded as the number one cruiserweight in the world, Jai Opetaia (30-0, 23 KOs) of Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia will take on Noel Mikaelian (28-3, 12 KOs) of Miami, Florida by way of Yerevan, Armenia in the twelve-round semi-main event on Saturday. 

Mikaelian, who entered the week still recognized as the WBC cruiserweight champion, weighed-in at the cruiserweight limit of 200 pounds, while his status as reigning champion remains unclear. 

Mikaelian just regained the title this past December, avenging a controversial majority verdict to Badou Jack via a wide unanimous decision. 

Opetaia, recognized as the world cruiserweight champion by both Ring Magazine and Zuffa Boxing, ranked WBC #1/WBA #1/IBF #3, can maybe sympathize with Mikaelian’s belt issues. Opetaia was stripped of the IBF title over curious sanctioning body politics this past March. 

Belts on the line or not, Mikaelian figures to test Opetaia, possibly in ways other recent opponents have not. Opetaia had scored four consecutive stoppages before Brandon Glanton took him the distance last time out this past March. Opetaia came in at 199 pounds on Friday morning.

Da’Mazion Vanhouter (12-0, 9 KOs) of Saint Petersburg, Florida is back in Las Vegas to take on Raphael Akpejiori (19-3, 18 KOs) of Miami by way of Lagos, Nigeria in an eight-round heavyweight bout. Vanhouter, who came in at 231 ½ on Friday, became one of the emerging faces of Zuffa Boxing during the initial run of shows out of the Meta APEX earlier this year, scoring two victories, highlighted by his one-round knockout of Raphael Murphy this past May. Akpejiori, weighing-in at 246 on Friday, is a full-fledged heavyweight that will have a six-inch height advantage to couple with his fourteen-and-one-half-pound weight edge. 

In the opening bout of the main card, former featherweight titleholder Mark Magsayo (29-2, 19 KOs) of Las Vegas by way of Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines will take on Andres Cortes (25-0, 13 KOs) of Las Vegas in a ten-rounder. 

When Magsayo, the IBF #6/WBO #9/WBC #10 ranked lightweight, and Cortes, the WBC #11/WBA #12WBO #13 ranked lightweight, shared the bill of Zuffa Boxing 05 back in April, all signs pointed to them meeting one another next. Sometimes the fights that make sense actually get made when they should. The winner of Saturday’s bout is rumored to be in line to fight Rayo Valenzuela next. Magsayo weighed-in at 134 ½ pounds, while Cortes scaled 135, the lightweight division limit. 

In the final preliminary bout, 19-year-old Oswaldo Molina (9-0, 4 KOs) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico fights Pablo Rubio (15-0, 5 KOs) of Whittier, California six-round super featherweight bout. Molina, who made his Las Vegas debut with a six-round decision win in February, weighed-in at 131 ½ pounds on Friday. Rubio, who got off the deck twice to claim a decisive eight-round decision at the Meta APEX in March, scaled 131 pounds even. 

Las Vegas-born Abel Gonzalez (8-0, 6 KOs) of Safety Harbor, Florida will take on veteran Raul Salomon (16-4-1, 14 KOs) of Long Beach, California by way of Ciudad Morelos, Baja California, Mexico in an eight-round super middleweight bout. Gonzalez, making his Zuffa Boxing debut, weighed-in at 167 ½ pounds, while Salomon, fighting at T-Mobile Arena for the second time this year, scaled 167 even. 

In a six-round junior middleweight bout, Vlad Panin (24-2, 16 KOs) of Los Angeles, California by way of Gomel, Belarus looks to stay busy against Dakota Linger (17-7-3, 13 KOs) of Buckhannon, West Virginia. Panin, who stopped Shinard Bunch in his Zufffa Boxing debut in March, scaled 151 ½ pounds on Friday. Linger, best known for his stoppage of Kurt Scoby in April of 2024, weighed-in at 150 ½ pounds. 

Unusually deep on an undercard, former unified junior welterweight champion Jose Carlos Ramirez (29-3, 18 KOs) of Avenal, California will take on Alexis Rocha (26-2, 16 KOs) of Irvine, California in a ten-round welterweight fight. Ramirez, looking to get back into the win column for the first time since April 2024, came in at 146 ½ pounds. Rocha, fresh off of a ten-round decision over Ramirez’s 2012 U.S. Olympic teammate Joseph Diaz this past March, also weighed-in at 146 ½ on Friday morning. 

In the opener, Sean Garcia (7-1-1, 2 KOs) of Los Angeles will take on Abraham Morales (4-1, 2 KOs) of Oxnard, California in a six-round lightweight bout. Garcia, opening the show headlined by his older brother Ryan, came in at 134 on Friday. Morales, normally a super featherweight, also weighed-in at 134 pounds. 

Quick Weigh-in Results

WBC Welterweight Championship, 12 Rounds

Garcia 145 ½ 

Benn 146

Ring Magazine Cruiserweight Championship

Zuffa Boxing Cruiserweight Championship, 12 Rounds 

Opetaia 199

Mikaelian 200

Heavyweights, 8 Rounds

Vanhouter 231 ½ 

Akpejiori 246

Lightweights, 10 Rounds

Magsayo 134 ½ 

Cortes 135

Super featherweights, 6 Rounds

Molina 131 ½ 

Rubio 131

Super middleweights, 8 Rounds

Gonzalez 167 ½ 

Salomon 167

Light middleweights, 6 Rounds

Panin 151 ½ 

Linger 150 ½ 

Welterweights, 10 Rounds

Ramirez 146 ½ 

Rocha 146 ½ 

Lightweights, 6 Rounds

Garcia 134

Morales 134

Tickets for the event, promoted by Zuffa Boxing, are available online at AXS.com 

Photos by Ed Mulholland/Zuffa Boxing

Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortegajr.mario@gmail.com

August 4, 2026 — Zuffa Boxing and Ring world champion Jai Opetaia will face two-time world champion Noel Mikaelian on Saturday, September 12, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Opetaia vs. Mikaelian will serve as the co-feature to the welterweight super fight between reigning champion Ryan Garcia and British star Conor Benn. The entire Garcia vs. Benn card will stream exclusively on Paramount+ at no additional cost to subscribers in all markets globally outside of the UK and Ireland, where it will be available via DAZN PPV.

Opetaia (30-0, 23 KOs), the Australian southpaw who ranks among the sport’s pound-for-pound best, will make the eighth defense of the Ring title he captured in July 2022. After three stoppage victories in 2025, Opetaia made history in March at ZUFFA BOXING 4, becoming the promotion’s inaugural champion with a one-sided decision over Brandon Glanton.

“This is a huge card, and I look forward to showing the world once again why I’m the best cruiserweight on the planet,” Opetaia said. “Credit to Noel for stepping up to the plate while others — yes, David Benavidez, I’m talking about you — continue to run and hide.”

“This is a massive fight for Jai, and it’s refreshing to see a top-tier cruiserweight step forward when so many continue to avoid the challenge,” said Mick Francis, Opetaia’s longtime manager. “He’s proud to defend the Zuffa Boxing and Ring titles on the biggest stage.”

“When I step into the ring on September 12 against Jai Opetaia in Las Vegas, I intend to defend my world championship. This is the fight I’ve wanted since becoming a two-time world champion, and I’m ready to deliver,” Mikaelian said. “I haven’t fought since December 2025 because of circumstances outside of my control. I refused to stay inactive. Champions are meant to defend their titles, and that’s exactly what I’m prepared to do.”

“My job has always been to put Noel in the best position to succeed.  More than 60 days after Noel vs. David Benavidez was ordered, we still haven’t received a bona fide offer. Noel wasn’t going to sit on the sidelines any longer,” said Anthony Girges, Mikaelian’s advisor. “This isn’t just about two champions in Noel and Opetaia. It’s about protecting the integrity of the sport and making the fights the fans deserve.”

Tickets are on sale now via AXS.com.

Further event details, including additional undercard bouts, will be announced in the coming weeks. 

To apply for media credentials, CLICK HERE.

(May 29, 2026) In a letter to David Benavidez’s promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz, WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman has clarified the justification for designating Benavidez the next mandatory challenger to WBC Cruiserweight Champion Noel Mikaelian.

Rumors spread quickly today that Mikaelian (28-3, 12 KOs) was finalizing a deal to face Zuffa Boxing champion Jai Opetaia (30-0, 23 KOs), however, Sulaiman states that if Mikaelian does choose to face the Australian, or anyone other than Benavidez (32-0, 26 KOs), he will do so as a former WBC champ.

The core point of Sulaiman’s ruling has to do with Mikaelian’s failure to make a voluntary defense within six months of winning his title and the WBC’s bylaw that a WBC Champion one weight class above or below can request to face their champion and automatically become the mandatory challenger.

In his letter, Sulaiman wrote:

The WBC mediated with as much interest and positive intentions without being able to find a final amicable agreement between the parties representing WBC Cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaelian.

The Cruiserweight division has been extremely complicated for some time and during the last annual convention seemed things would have been resolved and a positive path (sic) with the proper rulings which were:

– WBC granted a voluntary defense to champion who resulted from the Badou Jack vs Noel Mikaelian rematch.

– The winner to face 2 mandatories.

After 6 months: still no voluntary.

Alberto Leon was appointed by me to deal with both camps to try to resolve all their problems but as of last night there has been no positive result and the management of Mikaelian continue to be at odds with their promoter.

At the same time a great positive story has developed, our light heavyweight champion fought a cruiserweight bout and conquered WBA and WBO belts. Benavidez visited Mexico and has his mind only in winning the WBC Cruiserweight championship.

The WBC has received a letter from his promoter with the petition to mandate WBC Cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaelian to make his first mandatory defense against WBC Light Heavyweight champion David Benavidez.

The WBC Board has voted in favor to order Cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaelian to fight mandatorily David Benavidez.

The WBC is extremely proud of this ruling as it will certainly bring the best benefits to both parties after witnessing the mediation process which was not successful.

Sincere regards,

Mauricio Sulaiman

WBC President

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ABOUT SAMPSON BOXING

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports, ProBoxTV and several international networks. Sampson Boxing has guided the careers of over 40 world champions, specializing in developing relatively unknown prospects into champions and superstars, including discovering alll-time-great Manny Pacquiao, Hall of Famer Sergio Martinez, World Light Heavyweight, Super Middleweight and Cruiserweight Champion David Benavidez, former two-time champion Javier Fortuna, former world Unified WBA and IBF Super Welterweight Champion Jeison Rosario, former WBA Interim World Featherweight Champion Eduardo “Zurdito” Ramirez, and sibling world champions WBC World Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian Fundora and his sister, WBC, IBF and WBO World Flyweight Champion Gabriela Fundora. Sampson Lewkowicz was inducted into the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame in 2023. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

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Deerfield Beach, Fla. (March 26, 2026) –The world’s greatest boxing promoter and International Boxing Hall of Famer Don King announced today that he has offered hisWBC Cruiserweight World Champion, Noel Mikaelian (28-3, 12 KOs) his next opponent.  In a matchup scheduled to take place this June if Mikaelian accepts the challenge to defend his world title, the Yerevan, Armenia native has been pitted against WBC NABF Bridgerweight Champion Lyubomyr Pinchuk (17-4-2, 11 KOs).  

“We’ve moved forward with one of the WBC’s ranked contenders and Lyubomyr Pinchuk has signed the bout sheet and is looking forward to a mid-June championship fight. 

“I have contacted my champion Noel Mikaelian as we wait to confirm this amazing matchup for this coming June,” said King. “Mikaelian is a tried-and-true world champion and our success inside and outside of the ring is a testament to our relationship. Pinchuk is a dangerous opponent for anyone in the cruiserweight division, and I look forward to building Mikaelian’s next title defense.” 

“Noel showed his greatness after being robbed of his championship in his first fight with Badou Jack.  He dominated him in the rematch, showing what a true fighter he is in taking his title back.” 

“We will be putting together a great boxing card for the people and Mikaelian-Pinchuk will be a spectacular main event.” 

Hailing from Lviv, Ukraine and currently training out of Pittsburgh, Pa., Pinchuk prepares to enter his first world title outing on the strength of three consecutive knockout victories. After turning professional in 2017 and scoring four straight knockouts, the 29-year-old Pinchuk is currently on a career revitalization after suffering two defeats in 2022 and a draw in 2023. The challenger is now poised to square off against the highly decorated two-time WBC Cruiserweight Champion.  

In a relationship spanning back to 2022, King has guided Mikaelian to boxing greatness. The current champion’s first fight under the Don King Productions banner saw a vacant WBC Cruiserweight Title showdown against South Africa’s Ilunga Makabu. After scoring a devasting third-round knockout over Makabu, Mikaelian squared off against former WBC light heavyweight world champion Badou Jack in a fight-of-the-year candidate. Now on the heels of winning his title back in a highly anticipated rematch against Jack, Mikaelian is positioned to accept his biggest challenge to date. 

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. (DEC.  9, 2025) – Presented by Bash Boxing and 555 Media, Championing Mental Health held an open workout today at Forj LA in Downtown Los Angeles ahead of Saturday, December 13’s highly anticipated CMH 2: Rematch Season.

The fight for redemption returns to Los Angeles as the highly anticipated WBC Cruiserweight World Championship rematch between reigning champion Badou Jack (29-3-3, 17 KOs) and former titleholder Noel Mikaelian (27-3, 12 KOs) take center stage following their closely contested showdown this past May. The first Jack–Mikaelian showdown was a tightly contested battle that left fans debating the outcome long after the final bell. Mikaelian, who took the fight on just three weeks’ notice, pushed Jack to the limit in a grueling twelve-round war that saw both men exchange punishing blows and tactical brilliance. Now, with full preparation and their legacies on the line, the rematch promises to deliver clarity and closure in one of boxing’s most competitive divisions.

Also featured on the CMH 2 card is a WBC International Light Flyweight Championship rematch between Angeleno Gloria Munguilla (8-2) and Coachella Valley’s Brook Sibrian (8-2, 4 KOs) in a sequel to their instant-classic battle earlier this year that saw Munguilla earn a unanimous decision victory after eight hard-fought rounds of action.

In addition, San Diego cousins and rising stars Jonny Mansour (5-0, 2 KOs) and Julius Ballo (1-0) return to the ring for first time as professionals, as Mansour squares off against Mexico’s Marc Antonio Juarez Rodriguez (12-9-3, 5 KOs) and Ballo takes on Cleveland’s Kevin Walker (2-3-1). Making his first outing in 2025, outdoorsman from the Yukon Territory Tristan Hamm (1-2, 1 KO) enters a cruiserweight tilt against Miami knockout artist Robert Daniels Jr. (8-2, 7 KOs).

Tickets for the event are available at www.rematchseason.com. CHM 2: Rematch Season will be televised via major cable outlets, DIRECTV, and DISH, as well as Amazon Prime Video, PPV.com, TrillerTV, and Fubo. at 6 p.m. PT/9 p.m. ET Saturday, December 13.

Here’s what the competitors had to say:

Badou Jack:

“It’s good to be back in the States. My last five fights have been overseas, so it’s been a long time coming. I’m blessed. I have a great team. I believe in God. I work hard, and this is what happens. I don’t have to cut that much weight anymore. The plan was to move up to cruiserweight a long time ago, but everything happens for a reason.”

“I’m not looking to leave it to the judges on Saturday.”

Noel Mikaelian:

“It’s great to be in LA. I love the vibe here. It’s a great energy and I’m looking forward to Saturday. I need to correct the decision that was made last May. This time I am much more prepared. They changed the last fight to five in the morning. This time everything is done professionally. Championing Mental Health did a great job. It’s going to be an amazing show. I have a great team behind me and strong support. I’m going to get the W.”

Jonny Mansour:

“Fans can expect a magic show. That means hit and disappear. That’s the sweet science, baby. Hit and don’t get hit.”

“This is an amazing opportunity, especially since I get to share the card with my cousin. We have a great family and team behind us. Without them, we wouldn’t be here. All glory to God, I’m fighting to get to 6-0.”

“I’ve been doing this so long with Julian [Ballo]. We were on Team USA together. We’re ready to handle business inside of the ring. My cousin and I are here to push each other and be the best we can be. When he gets better, I push myself to get better. That makes us better as a whole. I’m ready to put on a show for Los Angeles and for all my friends and family who are coming from San Diego. Saturday I’m going to get the win no matter what it takes. That’s all that matters.”

Tristan Hamm:

“Saturday is going to have a lot of exciting fights. I’ve been in camp with Noel [Mikaelian] before, so I know how hard he works. It’s so cool to be on such a big platform. It’s also such an important cause we are fighting for.”

Brook Sibrian:

“I can’t wait for this rematch. I’m so grateful for this opportunity. Saturday’s fight is going to be extremely action-packed. You know how I fight. I come to hunt. To get this win I need to be me, enjoy it, and show the world who Mighty Brook is. This fight means that much more having it be in Los Angeles near home.”

Gloria Munguilla:

“I’m excited for the fight. I’ve had a great training camp, and I feel ready to go. I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for a long time. Saturday night I’m winning that title. Everyone can expect an action-packed fight.”

“I learned a lot from our first fight last January. I learned that I need to move more when I’m fighting so I’ve been working on that. “

Julius Ballo:

“I’ve always had the same expectations for myself since the amateurs. I’m used to the pressure. Pressure makes diamonds.”

“It’s blessing to be featured on such a giant card. I want to thank Anthony Girges for the opportunity. I’m ready to compete as a professional alongside my cousin Jonny [Mansour] Saturday night. Having this fight so close to home is amazing and I can’t wait to bring the win back to my family.”

“My fans can expect fireworks this Saturday. They can expect speed and domination. I’ve been training nonstop and this is a great opportunity for me to showcase my skills.”

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CMH 2: REMATCH SEASON FIGHT CARD

WBC World Cruiserweight Championship – 12 Rounds

Badou Jack (29-3-3, 17 KOs) vs. Noel Mikaelian (27-3, 12 KOs)

Lightweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Jonny Mansour (5-0, 2 KOs) vs. Marco AntonioJuarez Rodriguez (12-9-3, 5 KOs)

Cruiserweight Bout – 4 Rounds

Tristan Hamm (1-2, 1 KO) vs. Robert Daniels Jr. (8-2, 7 KOs)

Vacant WBC International Light Flyweight Championship – 10 Rounds

Brook Sibrian (8-2, 4 KOs) vs. Gloria Munguilla (8-2)

Lightweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Julius Ballo (1-0) vs. Kevin Walker (2-3-1)

Super Bantamweight Bout – 4 Rounds

Hayley Jordan (0-1) vs. Chantal Sumrall (1-2-1)

Super Welterweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Jose Vargas Quintana (9-0, 7 KOs) vs. Sergio Garcia Herrera (8-8, 4 KOs)

Bantamweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Isaac Anguiano (9-1-1, 4 KOs) vs. Fernando Bahena (5-2-1, 2 KOs)

Light Heavyweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Angel Lozano (7-0, 5 KOs) vs. Mario Hernandez (2-2-1)

Super Featherweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Samvel Gandilian (7-0, 3 KOs) vs. Roberto Pucheta (14-27-3, 8 KOs)

Super Flyweight Bout – 4 Rounds

Abel Alba (2-0) vs. Malcolm Franklin (2-1)

Super Lightweight Bout – 6 Rounds

Deni Davtian (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. Lorenzo Vasquez (2-0, 2 KOs)

Light Flyweight Bout – 4 Rounds

Sasha Saldana (1-0) vs. Vana Medrano Yanez (0-1-1)

Super Lightweight Bout – 4 Rounds

Adrian Boler (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. Benji Gomez (1-5)

LOS ANGELES (DEC. 3, 2025) – Presented by Bash Boxing and 555 Media, Championing Mental Health’s CMH 2: Rematch Season has unveiled the full fight card for the highly anticipated event. With a Downtown Los Angeles backdrop, Ace * Mission Studios will serve as host for the highly anticipated WBC World Cruiserweight Championship rematch between reigning champion Badou Jack (29-3-3, 17 KOs) and former titleholder Noel Mikaelian (27-3, 12 KOs), two of boxing’s elite who have been fixtures in the world and Ring Magazine rankings for over a decade.

Prior to the main event grudge match, budding San Diego-based prospect Jonny Mansour (5-0, 2 KOs) squares off against Mexico’s Marc Antonio Juarez Rodriguez (12-9-3, 5 KOs) in the co-featured event. A star in the making, Mansour prepares to make his third outing in 2025 on Saturday, Dec. 13. This past May, Mansour headlined the debut Championing Mental Health card in a fight bigger than himself. While pitching an impressive shutout against Christian Avalos, his mother was battling stage four cancer. In a monumental night for the undefeated contender, Mansour dedicated the victory to his mother, who tragically passed just days later. Now, 25-year-old Mansour is poised to build upon his momentum on one of the biggest fight cards of the year against the experienced Rodriguez.

In a family affair, Mansour’s cousin and highly touted amateur turned pro, Julius Ballo (1-0), is set to make his sophomore appearance as a professional. Boasting a staggering amateur record of 52-8, Ballo has proven to be one of the most exciting young fighters in the lightweight division. With multiple international gold medals under his belt, Ballo made his professional debut this past July at the Madison Square Garden Theater, a test he passed with a unanimous decision victory. Having traveled all over the country with his older cousin to compete in amateur events, Ballo and Mansour will have the opportunity to compete together for the first time as professionals. Standing in front of the lightweight sensation will be Cleveland’s Kevin Walker (2-3-1), who is on the heels of a dominating unanimous decision victory earlier this year.  

Powerlifting sensation turned boxer Tristan Hamm (1-2, 1 KO) is slated to continue his fighting career as he takes on Miami’s knockout artist Robert Daniels Jr. (8-2, 7 KOs) in the co-featured event. With over two million followers on Instagram, Canada’s Hamm made headlines when he delivered a brutal knockout victory over Logan Paul look-alike Rodney Petersen in 2024. So much so that he challenged former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell last year. Returning to the ring after controversial decision loss to Ashley Fongho of the world-famous pop group Rak-Su – which Hamm is protesting – the social media powerhouse plans on showcasing an action-packed fight against Daniels Jr. 

Fans can watch Championing Mental Health 2: Rematch Season live on pay-per-view starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT for a suggested retail price of $29.99. Integrated Sports Media will distribute the broadcast via major cable outlets, DIRECTV, and DISH, as well as Amazon Prime Video, PPV.com, TrillerTV, and Fubo.

As part of the organization’s mission to inspire positive change, $1 from every pay-per-view purchase will be donated to Championing Mental Health, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit promoting mental wellness and awareness through sport and entertainment.

“Adding these fights truly rounds out a deep and entertaining card,” said Steve Bash, Promoter and President of Bash Boxing. “This lineup reflects what Championing Mental Health is all about, and we’re thrilled to be giving these fighters a platform to showcase their skills, both inside and outside the ring.”

Anthony Girges, Founder of CMH and 555 Media Agency, added: “As the supporting bouts for CMH 2take shape, I’m filled with pride, but also gratitude toward all of these great athletes that are stepping up to support mental health awareness.”

Also featured on the talent-stack card is a super welterweight tilt between knockout machine Jose Vargas Quintana (9-0, 7 KOs) and Sergio Garcia Herrera (8-8, 4 KOs). Fighting out of Chino, Calif., via Apartado, Colombia, Quintana aims to put on a masterclass as five of his last six wins have come by way of knockout. In the bantamweight division between two Southern California natives, Pomona, Calif.’s Isaac Anguiano (9-1-1, 4 KOs) squares off against Fernando Bahena (5-2-1, 2 KOs). 

In a rematch taking place just two months after their first meeting, Costa Mesa, Calif.’s Hayley Jordan (0-1) looks to earn her first professional victory against Dallas’ Chantal Sumrall (1-2-1). Meanwhile, Pomona, Calif. native Angel Lozano (7-0, 5 KOs) returns to action against the Nevada-born Mario Hernandez (2-2-1) in a light heavyweight bout. In a super flyweight attraction, Hesperia, Calif.’s Abel Alba (2-0) will welcome Malcolm Franklin (2-1) back to action as Franklin enters this contest after a 15-year hiatus. 

Fighting out of Glendale, Calif., via Ukraine, Deni Davtian (4-0, 3 KOs) and Lorenzo Vasquez (2-0, 2 KOs) face off in a bout featuring two super lightweights. With an impressive start to her career in October, Whittier, Calif.’s Sasha Saldana (1-0) meets Colorado’s Vana Medrano Yanez (0-1-1), while Las Vegas’ undefeated Adrian Boler (4-0, 3 KOs) challenges Oxnard, Calif. native Benji Gomez (1-5) to kick off the evening’s action.

CMH 2: REMATCH SEASON FIGHT CARD

WBC World Cruiserweight Championship

Badou Jack (29-3-3, 17 KOs) vs. Noel Mikaelian (27-3, 12 KOs)

Vacant WBC International Light Flyweight Championship 

Brook Sibrian (8-2, 4 KOs) vs. Gloria Munguilla (8-2)

Lightweight Bout

Jonny Mansour (5-0, 2 KOs) vs. Marco AntonioJuarez Rodriguez (12-9-3, 5 KOs)

Cruiserweight Bout

Tristan Hamm (1-2, 1 KO) vs. Robert Daniels Jr. (8-2, 7 KOs)

Lightweight Bout

Julius Ballo (1-0) vs. Kevin Walker (2-3-1)

Super Welterweight Bout

Jose Vargas Quintana (9-0, 7 KOs) vs. Sergio Garcia Herrera (8-8, 4 KOs)

Super Featherweight Bout

Samvel Gandilian (7-0, 3 KOs) vs. Roberto Pucheta (14-27-3, 8 KOs)

Bantamweight Bout

Isaac Anguiano (9-1-1, 4 KOs) vs. Fernando Bahena (5-2-1, 2 KOs)

Super Bantamweight Bout

Hayley Jordan (0-1) vs. Chantal Sumrall (1-2-1)

Light Heavyweight Bout

Angel Lozano (7-0, 5 KOs) vs. Mario Hernandez (2-2-1)

Super Flyweight Bout

Abel Alba (2-0) vs. Malcolm Franklin (2-1)

Super Lightweight Bout

Deni Davtian (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. Lorenzo Vasquez (2-0, 2 KOs)

Light Flyweight Bout

Sasha Saldana (1-0) vs. Vana Medrano Yanez (0-1-1)

Super Lightweight Bout

Adrian Boler (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. Benji Gomez (1-5)

LOS ANGELES – Fans around the world will have the chance to witness the fight for redemption and championship glory as Championing Mental Health 2: Rematch Season goes live on Saturday, December 13, from Ace * Mission Studios in Los Angeles.

The event, headlined by the WBC Cruiserweight World Championship rematch between reigning champion Badou Jack (29-3-3, 17 KOs) and former titleholder Noel Mikaelian (27-3, 12 KOs), will be available for live viewing on digital, cable, and satellite pay-per-view starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT for a suggested retail price of $29.99.

Integrated Sports Media will distribute throughout North America via all major cable outlets, DIRECTV, and DISH in the United States, as well as leading digital platforms including Amazon Prime Video, PPV.com, TrillerTV, and Fubo.

In the spirit of the event’s mission, $1 from every pay-per-view purchase will be donated directly to Championing Mental Health, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness, inspiring resilience, and breaking stigmas around mental wellness through the power of sport and entertainment.

“Partnering with Integrated Sports Media allows us to bring this world-class battle to an even wider audience, while spreading our message of mental health advocacy,” said Anthony Girges, Founder of CMH and 555 Media Agency. “Every purchase helps us fund mental-health initiatives, so this event truly goes beyond the ring.”

Steve Bash, Promoter and President of Bash Boxing, added: “We’re thrilled that fight fans across the country will have an affordable, high-quality pay-per-view option to experience these amazing rematches while also supporting a meaningful cause.”

The undercard will also feature the WBC International Light Flyweight Championship rematch between Gloria Munguilla (8-2)and Brook Sibrian (8-2, 4 KOs), alongside additional bouts to be announced.

For More Information: 

Tickets: www.rematchseason.com

Media credentials: www.bzapr.com/credentials

Media inquiries: boxing@bzapr.com
Championing Mental Health Instagram 
555 Media 
Bash Boxing 
World Boxing Council 

LOS ANGELES – The fight for redemption returns to Los Angeles as Championing Mental Health presents CMH 2: Rematch Season on Saturday, December 13 at Ace * Mission Studios in Los Angeles. The event, presented by Bash Boxing and 555 Media, features the highly anticipated WBC Cruiserweight World Championship rematch between reigning champion Badou Jack (29-3-3, 17 KOs) and former titleholder Noel Mikaelian (27-3, 12 KOs), two of boxing’s elite who have been fixtures in the world and Ring Magazine rankings for over a decade.

The first Jack–Mikaelian showdown was a tightly contested battle that left fans debating the outcome long after the final bell. Mikaelian, who took the fight on just three weeks’ notice, pushed Jack to the limit in a grueling twelve-round war that saw both men exchange punishing blows and tactical brilliance. Now, with full preparation and their legacies on the line, the rematch promises to deliver clarity and closure in one of boxing’s most competitive divisions.

Also featured on the CMH 2 card is a WBC International Light Flyweight Championship rematch between Angeleno Gloria Munguilla (8-2) and Coachella Valley’s Brook Sibrian (8-2, 4 KOs) in a sequel to their instant-classic battle earlier this year that saw Munguilla earn a unanimous decision victory after eight hard-fought rounds of action.

Tickets for the event are available at www.rematchseason.com. Broadcast details and the full fight card will be announced shortly.

Beyond the high-stakes title fights, Championing Mental Health continues its mission to use sport and entertainment as a force for good, raising awareness around mental wellness, inspiring resilience, and breaking stigmas within the boxing community and beyond.

“I am excited to announce Championing Mental Health (CMH) 2 on Saturday, December 13 in Los Angeles!” said Anthony Girges, Founder of CMH and 555 Media Agency. “CMH 2: Rematch Season features two WBC World Championship bouts and a plethora of fights that will showcase the future of boxing. These powerful matchups go beyond the ring, highlighting resilience, redemption, and the fight for mental well-being. This event continues our mission to use sport and entertainment as a platform to inspire hope, awareness, and change for healthy minds. I’m deeply grateful to all our partners, especially our presenting sponsor, Alleviate Tax, for helping make this historic night possible.”

“As Bash Boxing approaches its 20th anniversary in boxing, we are excited to conclude one of our busiest years with another installment of Championing Mental Health on December 13,” said Steve Bash, Promoter. “The WBC Cruiserweight World Title between Badou Jack and Noel Mikaelian is an incredibly important rematch to finally settle the score between these two heralded champions. I am also looking forward to another worthy rematch between Gloria Munguilla and Brook Sibrian as they meet for the vacant WBC International Light Flyweight Championship.”

Nicknamed “The Dark Horse,” Mikaelian, 35, is Armenian born, raised in Berlin, Germany, and fights out of Miami, Fla. Before his loss to Jack last May, Mikaelian was riding a four-bout winning streak and had not lost in nearly seven years. He won the Vacant WBC Cruiserweight title in 2023 defeating Ilunga Makabu (TKO 3) and scored a unanimous decision over Youri Kalenga in 2022 for the WBC Silver Cruiserweight title.

“I took the fight on just three weeks’ notice because I wasn’t about to let anyone walk away with my title, and I still beat him,” said Noel Mikaelian, the former WBC Cruiserweight World Champion and current WBC No. 1 contender. “The world knows it, and he knows it. This time, I’m coming in fully prepared, focused, and backed by my home coach, Pedro Diaz, to take back what’s mine. I’m the WBC King, as I never lost it in the ring!”

The 41-year-old Jack, who goes by his nickname “The Ripper,” is a native of Stockholm, Sweden, currently living and training in Dubai. Jack has held world titles in three weight classes, including the WBC Super Middleweight title from 2015 to 2017, the WBC (Regular) Light Heavyweight title in 2017, and the WBC Cruiserweight crown in 2023. Jack has won his last seven fights and has not tasted defeat since the end of 2019.

“My sights were set on a unification, but I’m glad I’m fighting him again,” said Badou Jack, the reigning WBC Cruiserweight Champion. “This time there won’t be any questions when I beat him.”

“Badou is a 3-Division World Champion, with a legendary career,” added Amer Abdallah, Jack’s longtime manager. “This fight will prove what we already know—that he’s the best in the division.”

“The WBC is extremely excited about the upcoming Mikaelian vs. Jack rematch for the WBC Cruiserweight Championship after a hard-fought first fight,” said Mauricio Sulaiman, President of the World Boxing Council. “The best cruiserweight fighters will meet in the ring to determine the King of the Ring. This fight will also feature the Championing Mental Health platform under Bash Boxing Promotions in what promises to be a memorable event in Los Angeles.”

The rugged Gloria Munguilla, 33, is coming off her second career defeat to the undefeated Adriana Pineiro, who improved to 8-0, in the unanimous decision win in September halting Munguilla’s three-bout win streak. Munguilla turned professional in 2022 and was victorious in her first five fights.

“Mighty” Brook Sibrian, 32, has won her last three fights since suffering her second career pro defeat to Munguilla in January with the judges scoring the all-action bout 79-73 and 77-75 twice. In a DAZN televised bout in May in the first edition of “Championing Mental Health: A Night of Boxing”, Sibrian went toe-to-toe against Mexico’s Rubi Gutierrez and had her hand raised in a unanimous decision victory at the historic Avalon Hollywood.

Canelo Alvarez won a 12-round unanimous decision over William Scull to become Undisputed Super Middleweight champion at the ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The fight lacked any sustained action as Scull circled the ring relentlessly with Canelo trying to stalk the former IBF champion. Scull laned an occasional right hand but it was body shots from Alvarez that proved to be the difference.

Alvarez landed just 56 of 152 punches. Scull was 55 of 293. To illustrate just how pedestrian the fight was, By throwing a combined 445 punches over 12 rounds, Canelo (152 punches) and Scull (293 punches) set a new record for fewest punches thrown in a 12 round fight tracked by CompuBox’s 40-year history. The previous record was 459 (Parker vs. Wilder). On Friday night in Times Square, Ryan Garcia and Rolly Romero combined to throw 490 punches over 12 rounds, now the fourth fewest; and Devin Haney and Jose Ramirez combined to throw 503 punches over 12 rounds, now the sixth fewest. 

Alvarez of Guadalajara, Mexico won by scores of 119-109, 116-112 and 115-113 and is now 63-2-2. Scull of Germany via Cuba is 23-1.

After the fight, Alvarez and Terence Crawford faced off in the center of the ring as they officially announced their September 12th mega-showdown which will take place at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

Badou Jack Decisions Mikaelian to Win Full WBC Cruiserweight Title

Badou Jack won the full WBC Cruiserweight title with a majority decision over Champion in Recess Moel Mikalelian.

Mikalelian controlled the first five rounds using the right hand behind the jab. In round five, Mikaelian suffered swelling under his left eye. Jack was able to land some good right hands. It was a close fight as they grinded out down the stretch.

Jack landed 122 of 369 punches. Mikaelian was 153 of 670.

Jack, 200 lbs of Stockholm, SWE won by 115-113 twice and 114-114 and is now 29-3-3. Mikaelian, 198.1 lbs o Armenia is 27-3.

Munguia Gets Even; Decisions Surace

Jaime Munguia avenged a December knockout loss to Bruno Surace and pounded out a 12-round unanimous decision in a super middleweight bout.

Munguia boxed well and dominated with body shots and slowed Surace down.

Munguia landed 105 of 397 punches. Surace was 94 of 292.

Munguia, 167.7 lbs of Tijuana, MEX won by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 and is now 45-2. Surace, 167.7 lbs of Marsailles, FRA is 26-1-2.

Ajagba and Bakole Battle to Draw

Efe Ajagba and Martin Bakole battled to a 10-round majority draw in a battle of big hitting heavyweights.

Ajagba controlled the first part of the fight as he worked behind a nice jab and mixed in some right hands. Bakole started to get inro the fight and had a big eighth round as he landed a huge flurry of power punches that made the nose of Ajagba bleed. Bakole once again had a big final frame as landed a nice combination.

Bakole landed 145 of 460 punches. Ajagba was 190 of 451.

Scorecards read 96-94 for Ajagba and 95-95 twice. Bakole, 299 lbs of Kampala, Congo is 21-2-1. Ajagba, 240 lbs of Ughilli, NIG is 20-1-1.

Brayan Leon Decisions Aaron Guerrero

Brayan Leon remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Aaron Rocha Guerrero in a super middleweight bout.

In round two, Guerrero started to swell on his face. In round four, Leon dropped Guerrero with a perfect left hook to the jaw.

Leon, 169.1 lbs of Pinna Del Rio, CUB won by score of 60-54 and is now 7-0. Guerrero, 166.1 lbs of Culican, MEX is 11-4-1.

Former cruiserweight world title challenger Richard Riakphore made a successful heavyweight debut with a stoppage of Kevin Nicolas Espindola after round four of their scheduled eight-round bout.

In round four, Riakphore landed a huge right to the body that put Espindola on the canvas. After the round, Espindola had enough and the fight was halted.

Riakphore, 235 lbs of London is 18-1 with 14 knockouts. Espindola, 297 lbs of Buenos Aires, ARG is 9-10.

Marco Verde made a rousing pro debut with an opening round stoppage over Michel Galvin Polina in a six-round middleweight fight.

Early in round one, Verde dropped Polina with a big body shot. Seconds later, Verde dropped Polina with another body shot. Verde use sizzLing flurry to hurt Polina and the fight was stopped at 1:34.

Verde, 158.7 lbs of Mazaltan, MEX is 1-0 with one knockout. Polina, 158.8 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 4-6-3.

Mohammad Alakel remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Alexander Morales in a lightweight bout.

Alakel, 134.1 lbs of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia won by a 60-54 score is now 4-0. Morales, 133.5 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 6-14-5.

MIAMI, FL (April 13, 2025)—Promoter Don King and the Sela Company and his excellency have come to an agreement to have WBC Cruiserweight Champion Badou Jack and Noel Mikaelian fight for the title on May 3 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Mikaelian will attempt to reclaim his championship out of recess after the WBC awarded the title to Jack. Mikaelian will step in for the injured Ryan Rozicki, who won’t be able to compete because of an injury he sustained in training. The fight will be part of the Canelo Alvarez vs. William Scull fight card.

MIAMI, FL (April 8, 2025)—Just after promoter Don King had arranged a championship fight for Noel Mikaelian, the WBC confirmed that Ryan Rozicki suffered an injury and won’t be able to fight WBC Cruiserweight Champion Badou Jack for the title on May 3.

“We just heard the news and our champion in recess, Noel Mikaelian is ready, willing and able to step in for Rozicki and fight Jack for the title.,” said King. “We are in the process of negotiating a deal.”

MIAMI, FL (August 9, 2024) — The World’s Greatest Promoter, Don King, has announced the return to the ring of WBC World Cruiserweight Champion Noel “The Dark Horse” Mikaelian (27-2, 12 KOs) as he faces Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1, 19 KOs) in an explosive night of fights set for Saturday, Sept. 28 at Casino Miami Jai Alai.

Mikaelian from Yerevan, Armenia, fighting out of Miami, was originally scheduled to defend his world title Rozicki from Ontario, Canada, on June 7 but the fight was postponed due to a cut Mikaelian suffered in training near his eye.

“It was disappointing that I wasn’t able to face ‘The Bruiser’ in June, but my injury has healed to perfection and I’m ready to go,” Mikaelian said. “I can’t wait for September 28^th and to defend my world title during this massive Don King event.”

King said there is no debate that the matchup is between the world’s top cruiserweights fighting at the 200-pound limit. “Even minus the Mikaelian-Rozicki matchup we had a near-sellout crowd at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood in June headlined by Biair “The Flair” Cobbs and Adrien “The Problem” Broner,” King said. “The word is out that we are still producing the best fights in all of boxing and fights that the world wants to see and that boxing fans are clamoring for!”

King added the September fight date was previously discussed to take place September 14^th, but moved off that date because of the busy combat sports calendar with Mexican superstate Canelo Alvarez fighting, as well as the first UFC fight at the Sphere in Las Vegas. 

Added Rozicki, the WBC’s No. 1 contender and ranked No. 8 by the WBA. “I’m glad we were able to reschedule this fight, and now I will finally get what is rightfully mine. Mikaelian can’t delay my date with destiny any longer and I will put that world title belt around my waist come September 28^th.”

The Don King Productions fight card will be broadcast on Pay Per View via Triller TV, DonKing.com and Itube247.com.

Tickets, priced starting from $25, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.playcasinomiami.com. Floor seats are $150, ringside seats are $750, and next level tables $2,500. 

HOLLYWOOD, FL (May 22, 2024) – WBC World Cruiserweight champion Noel “The Dark Horse” Mikaelian (27-2, 12 KOs) has been forced out of his world title defense against number one challenger Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1, 19 KOs) from Ontario, Canada due to a cut near his eye.

Mikaelian suffered a cut near his eye while preparing for his June 7 showdown. Although disappointed, Mikaelian will be ready for Don King’s next monumental fight card to return to the ring. “I’m sorry to my fans and the boxing community,” said Mikaelian. “I’ll be ready to return to action and defe?nd my world title in time for Don King’s next massive event.”

“This is why we have so many title fights on the card,” said King. “June 7’s “Fists of Fury” will still have multiple titles on the line for boxing fans, and Mikaelian will be back to defend his title as soon as possible.”

Featured on the “Fists of Fury” event taking place at the Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL, will be a highly anticipated clash between one of the sport’s most decorated fighters, former four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner (35-4-1, 24 KOs) taking on Las Vegas’ Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (16-1-1, 10 KOs). This WBC People’s Championship bout marks Broner’s journey back to a world title opportunity while Cobbs returns to the ring for the first time in nearly two years.

The popular and exciting WBA Continental USA Middleweight Champion, Paterson, NJ’s Ian “The Young General” Green (18-2 with 12 KOs) will be defending his title against Toledo’s Roy Barringer (10-4, 6 KOs). The fan-favorite Green enters this bout on the strength of six straight victories.

The WBC International Lightweight Championship will be up for grabs as champion Antonio Perez (9-0, 5 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA, will challenge local favorite Antonio Williams (16-0-1, 7 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

A great WBA heavyweight special attraction title bout will spotlight two rising stars in the division as Cassius Chaney (23-1, 16 KOs) of New London, CT will battle Michael “The Bounty” Hunter (21-1-2, 15 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV. Chaney will be risking his WBA Continental North American Championship belt.

Recently added to the star-studded card is a cruiserweight attraction featuring Sarasota, FL’s Johnnie Langston (11-3, 4 KOs) squaring off against Mike Perez (29-3-1, 20 KOs) of Ciego de Avila, Cuba. In addition, Newburgh, NY’s Tre’Sean Wiggins (16-5-3, 9 KOs) will collide against Chicago’s own Semajay Thomas (11-1, 8 KOs) in a welterweight attraction.

The fight card will be broadcast on Pay Per View via Triller TV, DonKing.com and Itube247.com.

For more information and updates, visit www.donking.com.

Tickets’ are available through Ticketmaster for “Fists of Fury”. Tickets are priced at $75, $100 and $200. Ringside seats are $500 and tables are priced at $5,500.

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL (May 8, 2024)—There is no better in the business than Hall of Fame boxing promoter Don King when it comes to building an action-packed championship night of boxing and he hasn’t failed the fans in putting together the Friday, June 7^th card at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in a co-promotion with Kris Lawrence’s The Heavyweight Factory. 

 Six title fights are main events on the one card plus two rising stars from Miami and Ft. Lauderdale will be showcased with one of the main events finding WBC World Cruiserweight championship Norair “The Dark Horse” Mikaeljan (27-2, 12 KOs)  of Miami facing the number one challenger in Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1, 19 KOs) from Ontario, Canada. 

King is dedicating this great boxing card to the honor of the life and legacy of the late great Jose Sulaiman in the spirit of fighting for world peace.  “Jose was at the forefront of always putting on great fights and we plan to honor him with this great card,” said King. 

The popular and exciting WBA Continental USA Middleweight Champion, Paterson, NJ’s

Ian “The Young General” Green (18-2 with 12 KOs) will be defending his title against Toledo’s Roy Barringer (10-4, 6 KOs).  The fan favorite Green enters this bout on the strength of six straight victories. 

WBA NABA Light Heavyweight Champion Ahmed “The American Pharoah” Elbiali (23-1, 18 KOs) will defend his title against Roamer Alexis Angulo (28-3, 23 KOs) of the Dominican Republic via Colombia.

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The fourth title fight of the night will be for the WBC International Lightweight championship as champion Antonio Perez (9-0, 5 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA will challenge local favorite Antonio Williams (16-0-1, 7 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL. 

A great WBA heavyweight special attraction title bout will spotlight two rising stars in the division as Cassius Chaney (23-1, 16 KOs) of New London, CT will battle Michael “The Bounty” Hunter (21-1-2, 15 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV.  Chaney will be risking his WBA Continental North American Championship belt. 

An extra added sensational featured attraction for the WBC People’s Championship featuring Adrien “The Problem” Broner (35-4-1 with 24 KOs) of Cincinnati and Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (16-1-1 with 10 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV if Broner shows up.  Blair will be there. 

Rising hometown sensation De’von Williams (4-0, 4 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL will meet Travis Floyd of Douglasville, GA in a super lightweight attraction and Miami’s Michael Oliveira (21-2, 16 KOs) will be spotlighted in a super middleweight attraction for eight rounds.

Tickets are available through Ticketmaster for “Fist of Fury”.  Tickets are priced at $75, $100 and $200.  Ringside seats are $500 and tables are priced at $5,500. 

All bouts are subject to change. 

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL (April 25, 2024)—Hall of Fame boxing promoter Don King and Kris Lawrence’s The Heavyweight Factory present an exciting evening of first-class boxing featuring Adrien “The Problem” Broner (35-4-1 with 24 KOs) and Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (16-1-1 with 10 KOs) on Friday, June 7^th at the beautiful Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

The long anticipated featured fight of the night will see Cincinnati’s Adrien Broner stepping into the ring against former NABF Welterweight Champion Blair Cobbs. This high-stakes matchup marks Cobbs’ return to the ring for the first time in nearly two years, facing off against the highly decorated Broner as they fight for the WBC “People’s Championship”.

On the heels of an impressive knockout victory, newly crowned WBC Cruiserweight Champion Norair “The Dark Horse” Mikaeljan (27-2 with 12 KOs) aims to defend his title for the first time against Canada’s hard-hitting Ryan “The Bruiser” Rozicki (20-1 with 19 KOs).

In addition, Paterson, NJ’s Ian “The Young General” Green (18-2 with 12 KOs) will be defending his WBA Continental USA Middleweight title. The fan-favorite Green enters this bout on the strength of six straight victories.

In addition to the above three championship fights, a heavyweight feature fight is set as

Cassius Chaney (23-1, 16 KOs) of New London, CT takes on Michael “The Bounty” Hunter (22-1-2, 16 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV.

“This spectacular fighting event is dedicated to the honor of the life and legacy of the late great Jose Sulaiman in the spirit of world peace,” said promoter Don King. “Jose was at the forefront of always putting on great fights and we plan to honor him with this great card.”

“I want to thank Mauricio Sulaiman and Don King for this great opportunity for Ryan Rozicki,” said Dan Otter, promoter for Rozicki.    “Rozicki won’t disappoint boxing fans in his quest for a title.”

WBA NABA Light Heavyweight Champion Ahmed “The American Pharoah” Elbiali (23-1, 18 KOs) will defend his title and Michael “The Brazilian Rocky” Oliveira (21-2, 16 KOs) of Miami, FL will be featured in a super middleweight attraction. NABA Welterweight Champion Tresean “Trigger” Wiggins (16-5-3, 9 KOs) of Newburgh, New York will defend his title.  All opponents are to be announced.

Cruiserweight sensation Yuniel “The KO Doctor” Dorticos (26-2, 24 KOs) from Cuba and young Cuban middleweight rising star Yoenlis Feliciano “Yoyo” Hernandez (3-0) will also be featured on the boxing card. 

Rising star, hometown sensation De’von Williams (4-0, 4 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL will meet Travis Floyd of Douglasville, GA.

Ticket prices will be announced soon. 

Noel Mikaelian 196.6 – Ilunga Junior Makabu 197.8

(WBC CRUISERWEIGHT WORLD TITLE)

Jonathan Guidry 273 – Jesus Escalera 254

(WBC FECARBOX AND NABA GOLD HEAVYWEIGHT TITLES)

Trevor Bryan 264 – Cassius Chaney 257

(WBA Continental North America Heavyweight Title)

Alexander Castro 159 – Hector Bobadilla 152

Isiah Hart 161 – Cory Caad 165

Isaiah Efrain  Riquelmy 140.8 – Rondale Hubbert 142.8

Promoted by Don King Productions

Venue: Casino Miami Jai Alai

1st Bell: 7 PM ET

Live on FITE.TV, Donking.com and ITUBE247.com