New super middleweight star Jermall Charlo showed up at the press conference for his comeback looking far older than his 34 years.
Problems outside of the ring, which include alcohol abuse and mental issues, are seemingly taking a heavy toll on the former world champion.
Despite being 33-0, 22 KOs, and one of the most significant names in a new division, Charlo has skeletons in the closet that have affected his recent career.
Charlo was arrested for DWI in May 2024, months after being given a World Boxing Council pass due to a ‘mental health episode.’
The writing had been on the wall for Charlo, who was filmed drunk on social media two months before his misdemeanor. The setback came three months after his last fight when he returned to defeat Jose Benavidez at the Mandalay Bay in November 2023.
His victory ended another seventeen months without fighting after a win over Juan Macias Montiel. Nine months before, Charlo held a high pound-for-pound ranking after he defeated Sergiy Derevyanchenko at Mohegan Sun Arena.
World Boxing News has reported several times regarding Charlo’s failing career, which has nothing to do with his in-ring ability. His struggles away from boxing are where the problems lie, and so far, they have cost him a $5 million paycheck.
Canelo Alvarez picked out Charlo as his opponent for September 2023. However, the Houston native could not fulfill his duties, and his twin brother Jermell eventually replaced him, losing via unanimous decision.
Promoters attempted to reschedule the fight for May 2024, but Charlo still wasn’t ready. His arrest came in the month he should have fought Canelo in Las Vegas.
Months passed without word of a return until Premier Boxing Champions finally nailed Charlo down to a May 31st date. He now faces Thomas LaManna (39-5-1, 18 knockouts) at the same Michelob ULTRA Arena where he defeated the brother of David Benavidez.
Opponent ‘Cornflake’ is a strategic pick as Charlo has far bigger fish to fry if he can keep it together.
Judging by his appearance at the press conference, he’s got a long way to go to prove he can finish his career strong.
Charlo assured those in attendance and watching worldwide that he has put his problems behind him.
“It’s been a journey and a long time coming,” admitted Charlo. “I’m going up to 168 to make a statement. I’ve been focused and locked in.
“I want to get this fight out of the way and possibly get it on with Caleb Plant. I have big plans in the works, so keep it locked in. Lions Only.”
On his time away, Charlo added, “I just miss boxing period. I miss getting up and focusing on boxing. I’m back to doing that at the highest level.
“The sky’s the limit for me at this weight. I’m sparring bigger guys, and I can lift more now. I’m squatting more than I ever did and using my body more than I ever did.
“I feel like this is the division I will end my career in. You’re gonna see me go out and be more explosive than you’ve ever seen me before in my life.”
Promoter Tom Brown is delighted to see the fighter back, corroborating that Charlo is serious about his final chapter and needs no reminder of what’s on the line.
“I’m really excited about Jermall Charlo’s return. This man is undefeated and a former two-division champion,” pointed out Brown. “Put some respect on this man’s name.
“Everybody up here knows how accomplished he is. He’s focused and back to make another serious run.
“He’ll be taking on Thomas ‘Cornflake’ LaManna, a veteran of 45 pro fights. You don’t have 45 pro fights in the U.S. without gaining some very serious experience. I worked his professional debut when he was still in high school. I know he’s a smart boxing man and a hard worker.
“He knows damn well what a win over Charlo can do for his career,” concluded Brown.
In the co-main event for Charlo vs. LaManna, future target and fan-favorite Plant faces Jose Armando Resendiz. If they win, they will meet between October and December.
Tickets for the PBC on Prime Video live event are on sale now through AXS.com.
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Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay and learn more about the author, an experienced boxing writer and World Boxing News Editor since 2010.
