Yoenis Tellez Eyes Breakout Moment Against Julian Williams for Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title

Undefeated rising star Yoenis Tellez is set to make a major statement in the highly competitive 154-pound division as he prepares to face former unified champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title. The bout will kick off a stacked PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video, Saturday, March 1, live from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

Tellez Ready to Shine on the Big Stage

"I couldn’t be more grateful to my team for getting me this opportunity,” said Tellez. “I plan to make the most of it. I’m focused, I’m prepared, and I’m ready to make a statement on March 1st. This is just the beginning!"

At just 24 years old, Tellez (9-0, 7 KOs) has displayed remarkable growth under the tutelage of legendary trainer Ronnie Shields. With a strong training camp in Texas, Tellez believes he’s in the best shape of his career.

"Training with Coach Ronnie has been incredible as always,” said Tellez. “We focus on the small details, refine my technique, and make sure I’m at peak condition. I’ve grown a lot under his guidance, and I feel stronger, faster, and more prepared than ever."

A Step Up in Competition

In what will be the toughest test of his young career, Tellez faces former world champion Julian Williams, a battle-tested veteran known for his skill and experience at the top of the division.

"Julian Williams has done a lot in this sport, and I respect him,” said Tellez. “But on March 1, I’m bringing everything I have. I have an exciting style, and I’m confident in my ability to execute our game plan. This is my moment to show the world what I’m capable of."

Hailing from Santiago de Cuba, Cuba, Tellez has fought in the U.S. since 2022, with impressive performances in Orlando, Minneapolis, and Las Vegas. His breakout moment came when he stepped in as a late replacement and delivered a thrilling third-round knockout over Sergio Garcia on the Spence vs. Crawford PPV undercard. Now, fighting at Barclays Center in New York for the first time, he’s eager to seize the spotlight.

"Fighting at Barclays Center is a dream come true,” said Tellez. “New York has hosted some of the biggest fights in history, and I can’t wait to perform on such a grand stage. The energy is going to be electric, and I’m ready to put on a show for the fans."

Path to the Top

A victory over Williams would not only earn Tellez the WBA’s Interim Super Welterweight Title but also solidify his status as a top contender in the division. With big names like Jermell Charlo, Terence Crawford, and Sebastian Fundora on his radar, Tellez believes this fight is his stepping stone to the top.

“A win in this fight proves that I’m the top contender at 154 pounds,” said Tellez. “My goal is to win in spectacular fashion and position myself for a fight with the division’s best.”

About the Event: Davis vs. Roach

The March 1 PBC Pay-Per-View card is headlined by WBA Lightweight World Champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis defending his title against WBA Super Featherweight Champion Lamont Roach. The co-main event will feature WBA Super Lightweight Champion José “Rayo” Valenzuela taking on top contender Gary Antuanne Russell, while WBC Super Lightweight Champion Alberto Puello defends his belt against Sandor Martín.

Tellez vs. Williams will kick off the pay-per-view at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, with the event available for purchase on Prime Video, cable and satellite providers, and PPV.com.

Additionally, Prime Video will stream a free two-fight prelims card at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT, featuring former unified world champion Jarrett Hurd vs. Johan Gonzalez in a 10-round middleweight battle, and undefeated rising super featherweight Geo “La Roca” Lopez vs. Alex Dilmaghani in a 10-round bout.

March 1 is shaping up to be a night of high-stakes action—don’t miss it!