Marc Castro won’t be the only elite amateur on the February 27th Canelo Alvarez-Avni Yildirim undercard. Matchroom announced today that Keyshawn Davis, previously considered one of America’s best hopes for gold at the Tokyo Games, will make his professional debut that evening.
The 21-year-old Davis, ranked as BoxRec’s #2 amateur super lightweight behind longtime rival Andy Cruz, went back and forth about turning professional before finally signing with Matchroom last week. He’s a legitimate top-flight talent who could easily become something special, and I’m very much looking forward to seeing where he goes from here.
“I am so blessed to have the opportunity to have my long-awaited pro debut featured on the Canelo undercard, thank you to the team at Matchroom,” said Davis.
“I have been working diligently my entire career for my moment on February 27. This truly feels like a dream come true. My 22nd birthday is February 28. My win against my opponent will be the best birthday gift to date.
“A special thank you to the ones that have pushed me the hardest: My brothers, Kelvin and Keon Davis, my mother, Wanda Davis, and my sisters, Shanice and Shantel Davis. Also thank you to my friends, my former teammates, my fans, and my team. Without your unwavering support over the years leading up to this moment, none of this would be possible.
“My time is NOW. I am who and what they have been waiting for.”
The event will also see Julio Cesar Martinez defend his WBC flyweight title against McWilliams Arroyo atop an undercard that features Zhang Zhilei and other promising newcomers.