Denys Berinchyk vs. Keyshawn Davis - Lightweight Showdown
Date: Friday, February 14, 2025
Location: The Theater at Madison Square Garden, New York City
Broadcast: ESPN, ESPN Deportes, ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT
The lightweight division is set for a seismic battle when Denys Berinchyk, the undefeated WBO World Lightweight Champion, defends his title against the rising star Keyshawn Davis from Norfolk, Virginia. This high-stakes matchup is expected to be a classic lightweight showdown, as both fighters aim to solidify their place at the top of the division.
Main Event: Berinchyk vs. Davis
Denys Berinchyk (19-0, 9 KOs) is the reigning WBO Lightweight Champion, having stunned Emanuel Navarrete in May 2024 to claim the vacant title. The Ukrainian, a decorated amateur who trained alongside Vasiliy Lomachenko and Oleksandr Usyk, is known for his skill and poise in the ring. However, he will face a tough challenge against the undefeated Keyshawn Davis.
Keyshawn Davis (12-0, 8 KOs) has rapidly ascended through the ranks, becoming the WBO No. 1 contender in under four years as a pro. Davis, known for his dazzling technique and powerful performances, is eager to prove himself as the future of the lightweight division. He comes off a sensational win against Gustavo Lemos, and he’s ready for his title opportunity.
Davis promises to deliver an unforgettable performance, declaring, “A new era in the lightweight division begins on February 14th. Be there in person or watch it live on ESPN because what I’m going to do must be seen to be believed.”
Co-Feature: Zayas vs. Spomer - Junior Middleweight Test
Xander Zayas (20-0, 12 KOs), the Puerto Rican standout, will face the undefeated Slawa Spomer (20-0, 11 KOs) in a 10-round junior middleweight battle. Zayas, the WBO No. 1 contender, is coming off an impressive 2024 campaign and is looking to make a statement in front of his hometown fans at Madison Square Garden. Spomer, from Germany, will provide a tough test, having beaten multiple undefeated prospects, including Milan Prat in 2023.
Opening Bout: Mielnicki Jr. vs. Coyle - Middleweight Matchup
Vito Mielnicki Jr. (20-1, 12 KOs), the 22-year-old New Jersey native, will step up in a 10-round middleweight contest against the unbeaten Irishman Connor Coyle (21-0, 9 KOs). Mielnicki, a rising star with a 12-fight winning streak, looks to prove himself on a grand stage. Coyle, a seasoned fighter who has defended a regional title multiple times, is no stranger to the spotlight.
ESPN+ Undercard:
Rohan Polanco (14-0, 9 KOs) vs. Jean Carlos Torres (22-1, 17 KOs) - 10-round welterweight bout
Abdullah Mason (16-0, 14 KOs) vs. Manuel Jaimes (16-2-1, 11 KOs) - 8-round lightweight bout
Tiger Johnson (14-0, 6 KOs) vs. Quashawn Toler (17-3, 12 KOs) - 8-round welterweight clash
Nico Ali Walsh (11-1, 5 KOs) - 6-round middleweight bout against an opponent to be named
Tickets and Event Details
Tickets for this exciting event will be available starting Thursday, January 9 at 12 p.m. ET via Ticketmaster.com.
This fight card promises to be one of the most thrilling boxing events of 2025, showcasing top-tier talent in both the lightweight and junior middleweight divisions. Don't miss out on the action as Berinchyk defends his title against the hungry Davis, and the undercard features some of the brightest prospects in the sport.