YOAN P. HERNANDEZ TO DEFEND TITLE VS. TROY ROSS

Press Release: Yoan Pablo Hernandez (26-1, 13 KOs) will make a mandatory defense of his IBF cruiserweight championship against Canada's Troy Ross (25-2, 16 KOs) on September 15th in Bamberg, Germany. Hernandez (pictured) won the interim WBA title back in February of 2011 against Steve Herelius from France and then in October 2011, he IBF champion Steve Cunningham by a technical decision. A rematch took place in February of this year. Hernandez sent Cunningham crashing to the floor twice during round four. But the former champion refused to give up and fought his way back into the fight. After twelve rounds the judges saw Hernandez in front by scores of 116-110 (twice) and 115-111.

"That was one of the best championship fights I have ever seen," said Hernandez's trainer Ulli Wegner afterwards. "Yoan Pablo once again proved his class and won against a very strong and competitive Steve Cunningham." Now the trainer and his prodigy will be travelling to Bamberg. 

In Ross, Hernandez faces a tricky opponent. According to Wegner, "He is very quick, agile and throws hard punches. I saw his title bout against Steve Cunningham back in June 2010. He was really strong but had to stop the fight due to a heavy cut. He was really unfortunate and will try everything to beat me and become the new world champion." [Ross is represented by Boxingtalk publisher Greg Leon.]

Tickets for the fight night at the Stechert Arena will be available at the end of the week. They can be purchased online on www.eventim.de and www.boxing-online.com.

Credit: Photo Wende