The first U.S. boxing card of the year at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington, was a showcase of heavyweight power and rising talent. The event featured a series of exciting bouts, each delivering its own thrilling moments.
In the main event, the towering Gurgen “Big Gug” Hovhannisyan (5-0, 5 KOs) continued his unbeaten streak with a fifth-round knockout against Colby Madison (11-7-2, 7 KOs). Hovhannisyan, known for his imposing stature and knockout power, increased his intensity in the fourth round, leading to a decisive finish in the fifth. Madison, a veteran fighter, couldn't withstand the onslaught, marking another victory for Hovhannisyan in his promising career.
The card also featured a clash of unbeaten heavyweights, with Tsotne “Mr. T” Rogava (4-0, 4 KOs) making quick work of Dante Williams (4-1, 4 KOs). Rogava, a former kickboxing champion, showcased his power and skill, overwhelming Williams in the first round. This victory solidifies Rogava's position as a heavyweight to watch.
In another heavyweight bout, Dante “The Inferno” Stone (15-1, 10 KOs) secured a unanimous decision victory over Alexander “The Great” Flores (18-4-1, 16 KOs). Stone overcame a slow start to dominate the later rounds, including a knockdown in the eighth, leading to scores of 78-73, 78-73, and 79-72.
The undercard also featured rising stars like Elijah Seawright (10-0, 7 KOs), a popular Tik-Tokker, who outpointed Henry Rivera (2-3, 1 KO) in a super welterweight bout. Seawright’s social media fame translated into the ring, as he secured a victory with scores of 59-55, 60-54, and 59-55. In the super featherweight division, Nilo Guerrero (7-0, 6 KOs) showcased his talent by stopping Chancellor Battenberg (4-4, 4 KOs) in the second round. Guerrero’s performance was a display of his potential in the division.
Image Credit: PBC