Abass Baraou (15-1), promising super welterweight and current EBU Super Welterweight champion, has announced his first defence will come by way of Scottish fighter Macaulay McGowan (20-4-2). The first fight of the night is scheduled to start at 3 p.m. ET / 8 p.m. UK. The main event is expected to take place at 5 p.m. ET / 10 p.m. UK time but this may change depending on the length of fights on the undercard.

The bout, said to be airing on DAZN globally and Channel 5 in the United Kingdom, will be taking place at the Victoria Warehouse in Manchester; in a fight billed as ‘Extra Time’. It will take place on Friday June 14th.

Baraou, a seasoned amateur and impressive super welterweight contender, comes off a stirring, well-fought majority decision fight with former EBU, WBC Silver and IBO World champion Sam Eggington (34-9). In a contentious bout, Baraou would beat the hardened Brit in Telford in March.

The only loss for the high-flying German came by way of Jack Culcay (33-5), who – at the height of COVID – would deliver a spirited effort, beating the newcomer Baraou by a split-decision.

Meanwhile, Macaulay McGowan will be looking to successfully challenge at the next level, after two previous attempts left the Scotsman empty-handed; first against Tursynbay Kulakhmet – only 1-0 at the time – for the WBC International Super Welterweight belt, then against Tyler Denny (18-2-3) three years later for the EBU External Super Welterweight title.

So far, despite heaps of heart, McGowan has displayed little in the way of skills, let alone anything that could disrupt the progress of the European champion. Although, stranger things have happened and there is always the chance of an upset, particularly when the scales are tipped; after all, McGowan does have more professional ring experience. This, however, is hampered by a severe layoff that will definitely play into a sport as time-sensitive as boxing.

Baraou, who only has one blemish on his record, will be looking to make a simple first defence as he eyes the world level, whilst McGowan seeks to finally find success beyond a national level.

Fight Card:

  • Abass Baraou versus Macaulay McGowan, 12 rnds, for Baraou’s European JMW title
  • Lerrone Richards versus Steed Woodall, 10 rnds, SMW
  • Ryan Kelly versus Gerome Warburton, 10 rnds, MW
  • Dan Toward versus Ali El Said, 8 rnds, JMW
  • Ben Marksby versus Miguel Cesario Antin, 8 rnds, JWW
  • Ellis Price versus Christian Lopez, 6 rnds, LW
  • Chloe Watson versus Kate Radomska, 6 rnds, female FW
  • Mikie Tallon versus Marius Vysniauskas, 6 rnds, FW

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