Cassius Chaney, a heavyweight, is hoping to capitalize on his impressive victory against Trevor Bryan in November.
As part of Don King’s “Fists of Fury” event on June 7 at the Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, Chaney will square off against former 2012 Olympian Michael Hunter.
A championship fight is what 36-year-old Chaney (23-1, 16 KOs) is aiming for, and taking on 35-year-old Hunter (21-1-2, 15 KOs) is a positive start. Chaney was originally thought to be a highly-touted talent who entered the sport late after playing forward for the University of New Haven basketball team. However, he lost a split decision to George Arias in 2021.
“My victory against Trevor Bryan was so long ago, so I am just excited to get back in the ring,” Chaney said. “I’m looking forward to getting back into the ring because it was a statement because I wasn’t in it for a while before that fight.”
Chaney had only fought once since falling to Arias and was returning off a 14-month hiatus. The bout between Chaney and Matthew McKinney only lasted one round before Chaney prevailed via technical knockout.
“I am excited to return there and demonstrate my skills. Over the past year, I have developed much, boxed frequently, and been around a variety of fighters,” Chaney said. “With personnel I can trust, I have arranged my team to suit my needs. Because I trust the folks I am training with, I feel more comfortable. It is not something you want to be in when you have a fantastic trainer by your side but you don’t trust them, since it will make things difficult.
Meanwhile, Hunter hasn’t lost since his defeat to the now undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk in a fight that took place at the cruiserweight division in 2017. In his past six fights, Hunter has had two draws. His tie against Jerry Forrest raised questions because he appeared tired, which was not how he usually performed in fights.
Chaney has faith in his group and is keen to get back on track. Hunter is the most accomplished fighter he has faced on paper. For both, the fight represents a turning point as they approach or surpass their mid-30s.
“I am looking forward to that because stylistically, Hunter is a much different matchup for me,” Chaney said. “This is a whole new challenge, and I’m looking forward to it, as my last victory is behind me.”
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