Get ready for a boxing fiesta on December 16 at the Desert Diamond Arena, Arizona headlined by the WBA World Super-Bantamweight title eliminator between Murodjon Akhmadaliev and Kevin Gonzalez. This electrifying event, streaming live on DAZN, also features the Flyweight unification fight between Jesse Rodriguez and Sunny Edwards. And, for those who love a touch of British flair, four of Britain’s finest will be joining the fray.
Akhmadaliev (11-1 8 KOs), a former unified champion, is on a mission to reclaim his WBA title, a crown he lost to Marlon Tapales in April. Remember when he snatched those belts from Daniel Roman in Miami? Well, he’s been there, done that, and defended them three times before that slip-up. Now, at 29, he’s eyeing a comeback and what better way than an early 2024 victory?
Enter Gonzalez (26-0-1 13 KOs), the Mexican ranked #2 in the WBA, who’s been making waves in his recent fights. Last seen in March defeating Jose Sanmartin in Vegas, he’s on a hot streak. This fight marks his first 12-rounder, and what a time for it – potentially flipping Akhmadaliev’s comeback script.
Akhmadaliev’s fired up, saying, “No matter what happened last time, I’m here to fight for justice and reclaim what’s mine.” Meanwhile, Gonzalez is brimming with optimism. “This is my moment,” he declares. “I’m ready to show the world what Mexico’s got. I’ve been told I’d fight for a World title, and that time is now. On December 16, everyone will know Kevin ‘El Chacal’ González.”
The main event has the unbeaten British champ Edwards, but let’s not forget the other Brits. Galal Yafai, defending his WBC International Flyweight title against Rocco Santomauro, is one to watch. Yafai (5-0 4 KOs), an Olympic gold medalist, is fresh off demolishing Tommy Frank and is set to end 2023 on a high note.
“I’m pumped for this card,” Yafai says. “But first, I’ve got business with Santomauro.” And Santomauro’s ready, eager to prove his mettle on the big stage.
Next up, Peter McGrail, making his Stateside debut, vies for his first pro title against Ja’Rico O’Quinn. McGrail (8-0 5 KOs) is fresh off a win in Liverpool, while O’Quinn (16-1-1 8 KOs) from Detroit promises to give him an “American boxing lesson.”
“It’s showtime in the US,” McGrail buzzes. “I’m ready to impress.” And O’Quinn’s response? “I’m about to school McGrail.”
Adding to the family vibe, McGrail’s younger brother Joe McGrail (7-0 3 KOs) takes on Brandon Rosales Marquez over six rounds at Featherweight. And don’t miss Junaid Boston (7-0 6 KOs) from Rotherham, clashing with Gordie Russ II (6-0 6 KOs) in a Super-Welterweight bout.