Yoenis Tellez to defend WBA Interim title to dangerous German contender

WBA Interim super-welterweight champion, Yoenis “El Bandolero” Tellez (10-0, 7 KOs), will defend his title to Germany’s Abass Baraou (16-1, 9 KOs) over 12-rounds on the August 23rd Most Valuable Promotions Fight Night card at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida.

Originally from Santiago de Cuba and now fighting out of Texas, Tellez is one of boxing’s fastest-rising stars and 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 belt at 154lbs, cementing his place among the division’s elite.

Now, he turns his focus to the 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.

The Berlin boxer is the reigning European super-welterweight champion, who hasn't lost in five years.

Tellez feels confident after his career-best win, but far from fulfilled, "Beating Julian Williams gave me a lot of confidence, but I’m not satisfied," the Cuban explained, 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 the 25-year-old talent to be elevated to WBA Regular Champion status—a position currently held by 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."

Tellez will be showcased on DAZN for a second time in less than six months, 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."

Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.