Dan Azeez vs Lewis Edmondson joins Azim vs Davies on October 19th

The lineup for next month’s Adam Azim vs. Ohara Davies event is shaping up, with Boxxer announcing that Dan Azeez will face Lewis Edmondson in the light heavyweight co-feature.

Edmondson (9-0, 3 KOs) is taking a significant step up in competition, having recently secured a win in his first eight-round bout against Joel McIntyre in May. Azeez (20-1-1, 13 KOs), on the other hand, is coming off a rough patch. While losing to Joshua Buatsi, one of the country's top light heavyweights, was somewhat expected, his performance against the lesser-known Hrvoje Sep was disappointing. Azeez narrowly escaped with an eight-round draw in that fight, which did little to boost his standing.

“Lewie is a good, skillful, young fighter,” Azeez commented on their upcoming clash. “He whooped me as an amateur, and now it’s time to return the favor.”

Edmondson, confident but respectful, acknowledged Azeez’s experience. “I respect Dan as a fighter. He’s very experienced and has been there numerous times. We know each other well. We fought as amateurs and sparred early in my pro career. I’m expecting a tough and rough fight. What you see is what you get with Dan. I respect him as a person, but it’s the fight game, and it’s time to announce myself on the big stage. He’s had his time, and it’s mine now.”

Adding to the undercard intrigue, Michael McKinson (26-1, 4 KOs) will take on fellow welterweight Tulani Mbenge (20-2, 15 KOs). McKinson has been working his way back since his loss to Vergil Ortiz Jr. two years ago, while Mbenge has a solid record, going 5-1 in his last six fights. His only defeat in that stretch came via a majority decision against world-ranked Soulemane Cissokho.