Former Light Heavyweight champ Jean Pascal will support Kovalev vs Mohammedi on July 25th. Set to take place in Las Vegas, the outcome of Pascal and his scheduled opponent Yunieski Gonzalez is not easy to call.
In terms of Gonzalez’ career, there is little to really comment on. The obvious: he is a Cuban prospect whose promoter Joe DeGuardia holds high hopes. As with all prospects, Gonzalez’ record, which includes 16 wins and 12 knockouts, offers little indication to what might happen on fight night.
The 29-year-old entered the pro ranks in December 2010, and will of course find his biggest test to date in that of Pascal.
Canada’s Pascal, 32, may have clocked up a few losses on his once unbeaten record – blemished by Carl Froch in 2008 – but he is still a top operator. Now 29-3-1, with 17 knockouts, he’s earned his stripes in the sport, and has proven a highly capable athlete with solid credentials.
Despite losing a Unanimous Decision to England’s Froch, the Canadian put in a tremendous, competitive performance. In fact, some observers still say he won the close fight. Pascal has also fought timeless wonder Bernard Hopkins twice, and given monster-puncher Kovalev a solid test back in March.
Below are HBO’s Kovalev vs Pascal Highlights:
Pascal vs Gonzalez is an intriguing bout. It will either see one seasoned fighter outshine a green pro, or will mark the beginning of a young talent’s arrival in the sport. You can catch the HBO-televised Kovalev vs Mohammedi card on ESPN, with the action beginning at 10pm ET.
A few words on the main event:
Kovalev hardly need an introduction. Still undefeated and possessing vaunted power – perhaps only matched by rival Adonis Stevenson – he will be 27-0-1, with 24 knockouts going in. Nadjib Mohammedi is still a big underdog despite being Kovalev’s mandatory challenger. Mohemmedi’s record reads 37-3, with 23 knockouts.
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