CARSON, CALIF. (December 19, 2018) - Two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta "Tank" Davis will defend his WBA title against three-division world champion Abner Mares on Saturday, February 9 live on SHOWTIME in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions from StubHub Center in Carson, California.
Davis vs. Mares promises fireworks and high-stakes action as both men bring their fan-friendly styles to the ring. Davis, an unbeaten southpaw who earned his nickname "Tank'' by powering through opponents, has thunder in both fists with 19 of his 20 fights ending in knockout. Mares, who has engaged in many memorable fights throughout his storied career, will be moving up in weight and looking to capture a world title in a fourth weight class.
"This matchup is sure to make for a crowd pleaser, as both guys are known for delivering action when they step into the ring," said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. "Mares has an impressive resume and is determined to hand Davis his first loss. Davis has made a lot of noise in the sport at a young age and isn't slowing down. He executes impressively and continues to prove that he will be the next big star in boxing."
"Abner Mares is looking to join a select group of boxers by winning a title in his fourth different weight class and carrying that kind of motivation into the ring is the thing that can propel a boxer to greatness,'' said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. "We've already seen the kind of speed and explosive punching power that Gervonta Davis brings into the ring. I expect that Mares will push him to even higher levels and that is the kind of match that should excite all boxing fans.''
"The matchup between Gervonta Davis and Abner Mares features pound for pound two of the most exciting boxers,'' said Richard Schaefer of Ringstar Sports. "For Gervonta it is the biggest test in his career and for Abner it is simply "Dare to be Great". These two are the definition of modern day gladiators who will put it all on the line on February 9. The winners of this exciting matchup are us - the fight fans and the general public who will be in for a treat!''
"I'm very excited to be showcased in my first main event in the United States on February 9," said Davis. "I want to make a statement in this fight by putting on a tremendous performance against an experienced world champion like Abner Mares. I plan on showing everyone why I belong in pound-for-pound discussions and why I'm the most exciting champion in boxing today. You don't want to miss it!"
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, go on sale Saturday, December 22 and can be purchased at AXS.com.