'Bravo' Brant Makes First Title Defence In Hinckley

Rob “Bravo” Brant upset the odds to win a world title. For title defense number one, he’s returning to his favorite stomping grounds. Brant, a native of St. Paul, Minn., will defend his WBA middleweight title against the unbeaten Khasan Baysangurov on Friday, Feb. 15 at Grand Casino Hinckley.

Brant, who stunned Japanese boxer Ryota Murata Oct. 20 via unanimous decision to win the title, will be making his 12th professional appearance at Grand Casino Hinckley.

“Becoming a world champion was a dream come true. It’s extra special that my first title defense will be in my home state of Minnesota in front of my fans,” Brant said. “I fully understand the task in front of me, as it is harder to keep a title than it is to win one. My opponent is very talented and certainly deserving of his world ranking. I know that Khasan has weaknesses, and I feel we can exploit them. I am already working hard in a full training camp in Las Vegas in order to be prepared for top-level competition. I am confident and ready.”

“This is going to be a special night for Rob. He’s returning home as a world champion, and there is no place he’d rather make the first defense of his WBA middleweight title than Minnesota,” said Greg Cohen, Brant’s co-promoter. “I am looking forward to Rob putting on another virtuoso performance on ESPN.”

“I am very proud and happy to receive this great opportunity to showcase my skills against the reigning WBA middleweight world champion,” Baysangurov said. “I won’t disappoint my team and will give everything it takes to become the new champion. Of course, Rob Brant is a good boxer and a great champion, but now is my time to shine.”

“Last year had a lot of ups and downs, but I’m looking forward to becoming a world champion and making a title defense in 2019,” said Flores. “I’m very thankful for everything I have. Outside of the ring my resolution is to open a seafood restaurant and buy a house for my family this year.”

The broadcast will also feature sensational 18-year-old prospect Joey Spencer, who burst onto the scene last year after turning pro following a stellar amateur career. He racked up five knockout wins and will look to continue his rise in the new year.

“I’m planning on fighting five times this year so my resolution is to go 5-0, with five knockouts,” said Spencer. “I just want to keep getting better all-around as a fighter this year and I know that people will see my progression.

“I usually don’t make resolutions, but when I do have a little time away from the gym, one good vacation with the family would be great.”