Saturday, August 12, at The Theater at MGM National Harbor, Michael Angeletti, whose name has become synonymous with a powerful knockout streak, is set to face unbeaten Jonathan Lopez in an eight-round bantamweight affair. Lopez isn’t a mere stepping stone. The Puerto Rican fighter is a blend of skill and heart, and his U.S. debut earlier this year left a lasting impression. This fight could be the stage for Angeletti’s validation or Lopez’s breakthrough.
Then we have Jose Benavidez Jr., a man whose tenacity inside the ring is matched only by his passion for the sport. Facing him is Sladan Janjanin, a Bosnian fighter who’s been around the block and has the experience to prove it. Both fighters have stories to tell, with Benavidez seeking redemption and Janjanin looking for recognition. The ten rounds they will share inside the ring could be a battle for the ages.
A family legacy often carries a weight of expectations, but Damien Vazquez seems ready to embrace it. The younger brother of former two-time champion Israel Vazquez, Damien is up against the Filipino Jeronil Borres in an eight-round bantamweight match. With contrasting records but an equal desire to win, this fight can provide the drama that often defines great boxing nights.
But the night goes on. Emmanuel Rodriguez and Melvin Lopez will fight for the vacant IBF Bantamweight World Championship. The history of the bantamweight division has been marked by thrilling bouts, and this one could join that list. Rodriguez, a former world champion, and Lopez, a streaking contender, have all the ingredients to make this a memorable championship contest.
And there’s more. Gary Antuanne Russell will face Kent Cruz, and Travon Marshall will take on Gabriel Maestre. These fights are not mere fillers; they represent the future of boxing.
The undercard offers its own intrigue. Jesse Hart, David Whitmire, and Daniel Blancas each have something to prove, and the ring will be their platform to shine.
Tickets are on sale, and the live event promises to be a feast for the senses. But even if you’re watching from afar, the live stream on SHOWTIME promises to bring every punch, every movement, every emotion right into your space.
Starting Lineup:
Catch the live action on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page, kicking off at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.
- Michael Angeletti vs. Jonathan Lopez – Eight-round bantamweight clash between two rising prospects. Both unbeaten, both hungry for victory. Who’s got your support?
- Jose Benavidez Jr. vs. Sladan Janjanin – An all-action 10-round middleweight bout. Will Jose’s experience triumph, or can Janjanin deliver an upset?
- Damien Vazquez vs. Jeronil Borres – Another thrilling eight-round bantamweight showdown. Former title challenger Vazquez meets the tough Borres.
Main Event:
Later at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader begins.
- Emmanuel Rodriguez vs. Melvin Lopez – Fighting for the vacant IBF Bantamweight World Championship. Former champ meets streaking contender. Who will rise?
- Gary Antuanne Russell vs. Kent Cruz – 10-round super lightweight co-main event featuring unbeaten stars.
- Travon Marshall vs. Gabriel Maestre – 10-round welterweight opener. Sensational prospects going toe-to-toe.
Tickets On Sale:
Ready to witness it live? Grab your tickets now at www.mgmnationalharbor.com/.