One of the most exciting fighters to come out of the current wave of Cuban boxers,Yoenli Feliciano Hernandez will look to make his Cuban fans proud when he takes on middleweight Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis over ten scheduled rounds as part of a four-fight PBC Championship Boxing on Prime Video lineup on Saturday, May 31st at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. “I’m coming to showcase my talent for the world and put Cuba on top,” said Hernandez (7-0, 7 KOs). “The Cubans fans have always given me lots of love and support, and it truly motivates me to be the best. Because of them, I will become a world champion.”

 

In an era of rising Cuban pro boxers that includes David Morrell Jr., Andy Cruz and others, Hernandez has looked to change the perception of Cuban fighters as risk-averse combatants. With knockout victories in all seven of his pro bouts, Hernandez has done his part so far. “This new generation of Cuban fighters are doing everything possible to change any negative perception of Cuban fighters,” said Hernandez. “Nobody likes to take punches, but I’m a risk taker. I’ll show everyone that I can dish out the pain.”

 

After his first two pro fights took place in Mexico, Hernandez’s last five outings have come stateside, including his last bout that saw him burst onto the scene in Prime Video action on February 1. In that bout, Hernandez dominated the usually sturdy Angel Ruiz, eventually stopping him in round five. For Hernandez, his growth since turning pro has even surprised himself.

 

“The Yoenli that you see now is much more focused than when I had my first two pro fights,” said Hernandez. “Even since making my U.S. debut I’ve become more and more confident with every fight. I didn’t think I’d adapt so quickly, but I’m always evolving and progressing in the ring. We work hard in the gym and never stay still.”

 

In addition to the experience gained under the bright lights of fight night, Hernandez has been buoyed by rounds spent sparring with undisputed champion Canelo Alvarez. On top of what he’s learned in the ring, this time spent alongside the future Hall of Famer has helped him separate and remain focused once the bell rings.

 

“Canelo always told me that it’s essential to remain focused on your ultimate goal inside the gym,” said Hernandez. “Once you enter the gym, the only thing that matters is achieving your goals. Everything else stays on the other side of those doors. Keeping that in mind has really helped me continue to push my game to the highest level it’s ever been at.”

 

On May 31st, Hernandez will look to truly announce himself as a world-level player at 160 pounds when he takes on the toughest test of his career to date. The 30-year-old Kyrone Davis (19-3-1, 6 KOs) most recently scored a career-best victory over the previously unbeaten Elijah Garcia, and is guided by trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards, allowing Davis to soak in championship pedigree of his own as a stablemate of Interim WBA Super Middleweight Champion Caleb Plant.

 

“We always tailor our strategy based off our opponent, and we know that I’ll have to be at my best on May 31,” said Hernandez. “This is a great opportunity for me to show where I stand in the middleweight division against an opponent who’s got great experience. We’re doing everything we have to in order to leave no doubt that I’m ready for the best.”

 

Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com.