Boxing’s best comes to Jersey: Jennings v. Dimitrenko set to clash in Atlantic City August 18

Since its revival following Hurricane Sandy, Atlantic City has become the place to be when it comes to sporting events, specifically fight nights. Bob Arum, CEO and founder of  Top Rank Boxing, understands that and is looking to take advantage of the scene over in New Jersey’s gambling haven. It was announced that Top Rank will open the first ever boxing event at the new Ocean’s Resort Casino with what could be the fight of the summer.

Heavyweights Bryant Jennings will challenge Alexander Dimitrenko for the latter’s WBO International Heavyweight Title on August 18. The event will air exclusively on the ESPN and the match will be 12 rounds. The undercard bouts will be aired live on the ESPN Plus app. The Ocean’s Resort Casino opens up tomorrow (Thursday, June 28), making this a major event for the city and the sport.

Philadelphia-born Jennings (23-2) has been on a role, winning four in a row. After losing to Luis Ortiz in 2015 via TKO, he left boxing due to contract disputes with his former promotor. Signing with Top Rank, he had a career resurgence, leading him to this moment. In a press release, Jennings reflected on his rise through the heavyweight division up until now:

“Dimitrenko is a big, competitive fighter. I worked very hard to gain my position in the heavyweight division. Every fight for me is a risk. While I’m confident in myself, I don’t take any opponent lightly. Boxing fans can expect me to bring my best.”

Jennings has a tough task in the form of the 35-year old Ukrainian. Dimitrenko (41-3) has won three fights in a row, his last loss against Joseph Parker back in 2016. The champion trumps Jennings in height and weight, but that won’t stop “B.Y.” from achieving his destiny.

The co-main event features another Philadelphia native in Jesse Hart defending his NABF Super Middleweight Title against Mike Gavronski. This bout will be 10 rounds. Hart (24-1) has won two in a row after suffering a UD loss to Giberto Ramirez back in September 2017. The son of former middleweight contender Eugene “Cyclone” Hart, “Hollywood” is raring to go with his “hometown” crown by his side.

“I’m excited to be back in Atlantic City. I know that my hometown fans will show up, and I will put on a spectacular performance. Gavronski is a good test. He’s durable, and I know this fight will be great for boxing and boxing fans.”

Gavronski (24-2-1) is a durable fighter who is 4-0 with one no contest since 2015.

Other fights on the card involve a who’s who of local talent:

– Newark, New Jersey’s Shakur Stevenson faces off against Carlos Ruiz (16-4-2). Stevenson (7-0), a former silver medalist in the Olympics, last fought in early June, knocking out Aelio Mesquita in the second round.

– Camden, New Jersey’s Jason Sosa (20-3-4) is looking to get back into the win column as he faces Reynaldo Blanco (14-4).

– Another Philly native, Christian Carto (15-0) puts his undefeated streak on the line against Javier Gallo.

– Finally, a true homecoming will take place, as Atlantic City’s Thomas LaManna (25-2-1) faces Matthew Strode (25-6). LaManna is looking to extend his winning streak to six.

Tickets for the event go on sale June 29. You can get your tickets either at the Ovation Hall box office or at Ticketmaster.com.