Yoenis Tellez set to defend WBA Interim super-welterweight title to Abass Baraou

August 23: Yoenis Tellez vs Abass Baraou

WBA Super Welterweight Interim Champion, Yoenis “El Bandolero” Tellez (10-0, 7 KOs), originally from Santiago de Cuba and now fighting out of Stafford, Texas, will defend his title against Germany’s Abass Baraou (16-1, 9 KOs) in a 12-round bout on the August 23rd MVP Fight Night card at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida.

How to Watch: The event will be televised live worldwide on DAZN.

Tellez, one of boxing’s fastest-rising stars, is coming off a career-defining performance against former world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams. On March 1, 2025, at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, Tellez dominated the seasoned veteran to capture the WBA Interim Super Welterweight title, cementing his place among the division’s elite.

Now, he turns his focus to the dangerous and highly skilled Baraou, who represents the toughest challenge yet in his young career, having beaten the likes of Brit boxers Sam Eggington and Macauley McGowan already.

"Beating Julian Williams gave me a lot of confidence, but I’m not satisfied," said Tellez, who is co-promoted by Boxlab Promotions and Warriors Boxing.

"I learned a lot from that fight, and I’m bringing that momentum into the ring against Baraou. He’s a talented fighter, and I respect what he’s done in his career. But on fight night, I’m going to show why I’m the champion."

A victory over Baraou could set the stage for Tellez to be elevated to the WBA Regular Champion status—a position currently held by boxing legend Terence Crawford. "This fight is a major step for me," Tellez continued. "When I win, I’ll be in position to fight as the Regular Champion. That means big fights, big opportunities, and a chance to keep proving I’m the best at 154 pounds."

For the second time in less than six months, Tellez will be showcased on DAZN, giving fans worldwide a front-row seat to his journey. "Fighting on DAZN again is huge for me," Tellez added. "It’s a global platform, and I want to keep building my name, so everyone knows who Yoenis Tellez is."

Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, articulated his enthusiasm about Tellez’s trajectory and the significance of this fight. "Yoenis has all the tools to be a superstar," Piedra said. "His win over Julian Williams proved he belongs at the top, and a victory against Baraou will put him in line for the WBA Regular title. It’s been incredible working alongside Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian at Most Valuable Promotions—our shared vision for Yoenis’ career is paying off, and the fans are seeing something special unfold."

This event is brought to you by Most Valuable Promotions in association with Boxlab Promotions. Doors open at 5pm ET with the first bout beginning at 6pm ET. Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.