Tejada looks to detonate when he challenges Mascarenhas for WBC Title

A fierce Bay State rivalry takes center stage Saturday, July 19, as undefeated junior welterweight prospect Nicolas “TNT” Tejada (11-0-1, 8 KOs) of Haverhill faces off with New Bedford’s Wilson “Ill Will” Mascarenhas (11-1, 5 KOs) for the WBC US Silver Super Lightweight title at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT.

The high-stakes clash headlines CES Boxing’s ‘Summer Heat 2025’, a pro-am showcase featuring top professional and amateur talent from across New England and beyond.

Tickets are on sale now at cesfights.com, Ticketmaster, and the Mohegan Sun Box Office.

At just 25 years old, Tejada has built serious momentum since turning pro in 2022—racking up 11 wins, a New England Welterweight title, and a reputation for power and grit. Now, he headlines the biggest fight of his career in front of a sold-out crowd, chasing a WBC belt and a breakout moment.

“This is everything I dreamed about as a kid,” said Tejada. “Wilson’s a tough fighter—I’ve studied him, and we both come forward and make fights happen. This one’s going to be fireworks.”

Though Tejada boasts more knockouts, he believes his size and strength—not just his power—will be the difference-maker against Mascarenhas.

“People look at the KO numbers, but that’s not everything,” he added. “We’re both skilled, but I don’t think he’s been in with someone as big or as physical as me.”

While Tejada has campaigned as a welterweight—including his title-winning effort against Nathan Balakin—Mascarenhas has stayed put at 140 pounds. Their similar records, styles, and shared Massachusetts roots promise a clash that fans won’t forget.

“This is a perfect fight between two rising stars,” said Peter Czymbor of Boston Boxing Promotions, who promotes Tejada. “It’s rare to see two prospects take a risk like this so early in their careers. The winner steps into a whole new conversation.”

CES Boxing President Jimmy Burchfield Sr. agrees: “This is what boxing should be—two hungry warriors from the same region, putting it all on the line. Wilson is a true champion, but Nicolas is undefeated, dangerous, and determined. This is going to be a war.”

Tejada, for his part, isn’t banking on a knockout—he just wants the win.

“I’m not going to chase a stoppage,” he said. “But if it comes, I’ll take it. My job is to beat him and bring that title back to Haverhill.”

With regional pride, a WBC belt, and future contention on the line, Saturday’s main event is more than just a fight—it’s a battle for Massachusetts supremacy, and a star-making opportunity on the national stage.