Top Rank has confirmed two more shows for its fifth week of action at ‘The Bubble’ inside the MGM Grand, Las Vegas.
On July 7, two-time world title challenger Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda (31-2, 25 KOs) will face Kendo Castaneda (17-1, 8 KOs) over 10 rounds while two days later, on July 9, fringe heavyweight contender Carlos Takam (38-5-1, 28 KOs) meets Jerry ‘Slug’ Forrest (26-3, 20 KOs) in another 10-round main event.
Castaneda and Takam are late replacements for Ivan Baranchyk (undisclosed injury) and Jarrell Miller (failed drug test) respectively.
“In the main events, you have four fighters hoping to seize an amazing opportunity live on ESPN,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Jose Zepeda is one of the world’s elite 140-pounders and I credit Kendo for taking on this challenge.
“I believe Carlos Takam can climb the heavyweight rankings again and, most importantly, he is a fan-friendly fighter who is guaranteed entertainment.”
Zepeda added: “I’m ready to fight on July 7, whether it’s Ivan Baranchyk, or any of the other fighters in the 140-pound division. I’ve trained for July 7 since early May, so no matter who’s in the opposite corner, I’ll be ready. I’m a professional. I’m coming to MGM Grand ready to prove, once again, why I’m one of the elite junior welterweights.”
Both shows will air live in the US on ESPN and ESPN Deportes beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.