Yoenis Tellez aims to prove credentials against Julian Williams

Undefeated rising star Yoenis Tellez plans to make a big splash in the stacked 154-pound division when he takes on former unified champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams for the Interim WBA Super Welterweight Title kicking off a loaded PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video Saturday, March 1 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

“I couldn’t be more grateful to my team for getting me this opportunity,” said Tellez. “I plan to make the most of it. I’m focused, I’m prepared, and I’m ready to make a statement on March 1st. This is just the beginning!”

The 24-year-old Tellez (9-0, 7 KOs) has impressed in his young career, and has shown steady improvement under the guidance of legendary trainer Ronnie Shields, who will again lead Tellez into the ring on March 1.

“Training in Texas with Coach Ronnie has been incredible as always,” said Tellez. “Every day we focus on the little details that matter, refine my technique, and make sure I’m in the best shape possible. Ronnie brings a wealth of knowledge, and I’ve grown a lot under his guidance. This has been one of my best camps yet, and I feel stronger, faster, and more prepared than ever.”

In this pay-per-view showdown, Tellez will step up his competition to face the most accomplished opponent of his young career in Williams, a former unified 154-pound world champion and a stalwart atop the division. Despite the step up, Tellez remains as confident as ever that March 1 will be his night.

“Julian Williams is a former world champion with a lot of experience, and I respect what he’s done in the sport,” said Tellez. “But on March 1, I’m going to come with everything I’ve got. I have a style that is exciting, and I’m confident in my ability to execute our game plan. This is a huge opportunity for me, and I’m ready to show the world what I’m capable of.”

Originally from Santiago de Cuba, Cuba, Tellez has fought stateside since 2022, largely in Orlando, with additional bouts in Minneapolis and at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, where he stepped in as a late replacement to blast out Sergio Garcia in the third-round on the Spence vs. Crawford PPV undercard. Now set to make his debut in New York at the famed Barclays Center, Tellez has aims on making the most of the huge stage.

“Fighting at Barclays Center in Brooklyn is a dream come true,” said Tellez. “New York has held some of the biggest fights in boxing history, and I’m excited to perform on such a big stage for the first time. I know the energy in the arena is going to be electric, and I’m looking forward to putting on a great show for all the fans.”

With a win on March 1, Tellez would capture the WBA’s Interim Title at 154-pound, and importantly pick up a signature victory that could signal his readiness to face the division’s reigning champions. Despite his quick rise, Tellez believes this victory will show that he is not only the future of the division, but its present.

“A win in this fight solidifies me as the top contender at 154-pounds,” said Tellez. “My goal is to win in spectacular fashion and be squarely in position to face Jermell Charlo, Terence Crawford and Sebastian Fundora.”