In a co-main event that’s set to ignite the Toyota Center, London’s Ohara “Two Tanks” Davies will stride into the U.S. boxing scene, a debut wrapped in Golden Boy Promotions’ colors, clashing with Venezuela’s own Ismael Barroso. Serving as the prelude to Garcia vs. Duarte in Houston, Texas, this explosive encounter sees two fighters lock horns in a 12-round brawl for the WBA Super Lightweight Interim World Championship, in collaboration with TGB Promotions and delivered to fans on DAZN.
Ohara Davies can hardly contain his excitement. “Thrilled to pieces,” he declares, “to lock this fight down. It’s gonna be a brawl—Barroso’s a tough nut, and frankly, should’ve been crowned the real WBA champ when he had Rolly Romero reeling. But hey, I’m pumped to finally settle the score from that missed chance in Dubai.” Davies pledges a knockout against Barroso come December 2nd, gunning for the interim champion title with a shoutout to the Golden Boy squad for making it happen.
Since turning pro in 2014, Davies has clawed his way up the division, landing himself the WBA’s No. 1 super lightweight spot. His passage to a world title bout was punched with a knockout win over Lewis Ritson in a WBA eliminator this March. A five-year victory marathon props him up, with only a couple of losses to note, both against world-class adversaries.
Ismael Barroso, brimming with anticipation for the title bout, assures everyone he’s world championship material. “My last bout was just a teaser,” Barroso states. “This time I’ll leave no room for doubt. The unwavering support of my team has fueled my comeback. I’m all geared up to claim my title.”
Barroso, the crafty southpaw with a two-decade-long career, briefly held the WBA interim lightweight title and is itching for redemption. His controversial tangle with Rolly Romero left many questioning the fight’s conclusion. Currently the WBA’s No. 3, Barroso eyes the belt many argue he’s rightly due.
Golden Boy’s Oscar De La Hoya is betting big on Davies. “The guy’s a beast in the ring, ripe for a world title,” De La Hoya boasts. “With Golden Boy in his corner for his U.S. debut, I’m betting my bottom dollar he’ll be the one hoisting that championship belt.”
TGB Promotions’ Tom Brown nods in agreement about Barroso, affirming his place among the elite at 140 pounds. “He’s demonstrated his mettle on short notice before and will no doubt bring that same drive to finish what he starts.”