GONZALEZ DEFENDS IN VEGAS, BROOK IN UK
Jhonny “KO” Gonzalez
Las Vegas, NV– In 2013 former three time world champion Jhonny Gonzalez (57-8, 48 KOs) silenced any and all critics. Viewed as a shot fighter, certainly past his prime, Johnny knocked out heavily favored WBC 126 lb. champ Abner Mares in what was a huge upset.
CAN JHONNY UPSET AL HAYMON’S GUY (AGAIN)?
Since stopping Mares, he has defended th WBC featherweight (126 lb.) title twice. The 33 year-old faces a formidable challenger on Saturday in former U.S. Olympian Gary Russell Jr.(25-1. 14 KOs), Live from the Palms Casino in Las Vegas, NV.
RUSSELL “CODDLED” ON WAY UP
The American, once a hot prospect has received criticism for facing weak opposition in building an undefeated mark. He lost a clear decision last year against two-time Olympic Gold medal winner Vasyl Lomachenko (3-1, 1 KOs). This time Russell steps in against a veteran with formidable punching power. Ironically, the Mexican champion is the betting underdog here in town.
VANES DUMPS TRAINER AT WRONG TIME?
154 lb. contender Vanes Martirosyan (35-1-1, 21 KOs) faces unbeaten prospect Jermell Charlo (25-0, 11 KOs) in the televised co-feature. Quality matchup, but Vanes left trainer Joe Goossen a few weeks ago to work with another trainer. If Vanes lacks focus coming into a fight with the talented Charlo, he is in trouble!
KELL BROOK RETURNS FROM KNIFE ATTACK
Live from Sheffield England in the co-main event IBF welterweight champion Kell Brook (33-0, 22 KOs) comes back from a near lethal stabbing attack that happened last year while vacationing in Spain. He faces mandatory challenger Jo Jo Dan (34-2, 18 KOs). While Dan has been designated in this slot by the IBF, this is essentially what one would consider a tune-up bout. Unless Brook was seriously effected by the injury he should walk through the Romanian with ease.
MARTIROSYAN LEAVES TRAINER BEFORE TOUGH TEST WITH CHARLO
154lb contender Vanes Martirosyan (35-1-1, 21 KOs) faces unbeaten prospect Jermell Charlo (25-0, 11 KOs) on the televised card.
Kevin Perry
TWO SHOWTIME BOXING CARDS SATURDAY