Since his points victory against Alexander Ustinov in November 2017, Manuel Charr has been recognised as WBA heavyweight champion.
On September 29, the “Diamond Boy” heads to Cologne’s Lanxess Arena for his first title defense in the ring.
His opponent is the mandatory challenger Oquendo, who has been waiting a long time for his chance at the WBA belt.
The Chicago-based Puerto Rican has shared punches with legends like Evander Holyfield, Chris Byrd and David Tua.
Against Charr, he wants to fulfill his lifelong dream and finally win the World championship.
“I’m really looking forward to the fight,” says Charr. “Since beating Ustinov everthing is happening. Now, as world champion at home in Cologne, I can box in front of my fans and this is the greatest thing I can imagine
“Fres is a very strong and experienced opponent, I certainly will not be underestimating him. I’ve known him a long time we would fight and have always looked up to him. It will be an honor to go up against him in the ring.”
When Oquendo began his professional career in 1997, Charr was just twelve years old.
“The Big O” has always been considered one of the largest US heavyweight talents since making his debut. His first world title fight came in September 2003, when he faced the former IBF champion Chris Byrd, who three years earlier had sensationally defeated Vitali Klitschko.
The fight against Byrd I actually won,” Oquendo recalls. “I should already be world champion at the time. But the judges have decided otherwise. Although this was a big disappointment, but what can I do? I’ve gone ahead and waited for my chance.”
Another highlight on the bill is a WBA title match featuring Ikram Kerwat vs. Anahi Ester Sanchez in the women’s lightweight division.
The WBA heavyweight world championship between Manuel Charr and Fres Oquendo managed by Global Sports Management & Diamondboypromotion inCollaboration with Roy Jones, Jr.’s Square Ring Promotions and Bobby Hitz’s Hitz Boxing.
Tickets for the world title fight in Cologne’s Lanxess Arena at www.koelnticket.de are available under www.koelnticket.de/manuel-charr-tickets. SKY is to televise the Event on September 29 live and exclusive in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
