Former WBA Featherweight World Champion Derrick Smoke Gainer (39-7-1, 24 KOs) will be looking to begin his comeback and establish himself in the 130-135-lb divisions when he faces St. Louis veteran Phillip Bring The Payne for the IBA Americas Lightweight Championship, this Saturday, August 12 at the Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, LA.

 

Gainer, who fights for Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing, will be looking to return to the victory column after a two-fight skid against top-notch opposition. The quick-fisted Floridian lost his WBA title in a unification battle with Juan Manuel Marquez and then dropped Marquez conqueror Chris John before losing a decision in John's native Indonesia.

 

Against Phillip Payne, I'm going to show how dangerous I am as a lightweight, said a confident Gainer. I feel strong at this weight and I know I'll be a world champion as soon as I get another chance.

 

Gainer vs. Payne will serve as the main event of the Rivas Warriors and Star Boxing show. The Paragon Casino Resort is located at 711 Paragon Place in Marksville. Tickets are priced at $30 general admission or $100 for ringside and are available at Paragon Gifts or any Ticket Master location. On fight night, doors open at 6:30 pm; the first bout is at 7:30 pm.