Boxing Match Preview: Gurgen Hovhannisyan (8-0-0, 7 KOs) vs. Chris Thomas (15-1-2, 10 KOs)

Event: Night of Champions XI
Date: Friday, July 18, 2025
Venue: Caribe Royale Resort, Orlando, Florida
Weight Class: Heavyweight (Unlimited)
Rounds: Scheduled for 10 rounds
Title on the Line: WBA Continental North America Heavyweight Title
Broadcast: DAZN (Global)

Fighter Comparison

Attribute	Gurgen Hovhannisyan	Chris Thomas
Record	8-0-0 (7 KOs)	15-1-2 (10 KOs)
Age	27	37
Height	6’7″ (201 cm)	5’11” (180 cm)
Weight (Last Bout)	297 lbs	225 lbs
Reach	81″ (206 cm)	N/A
Stance	Orthodox	Orthodox
Trainer	Joe Goossen	N/A
Nationality	Armenia (based in LA)	USA (Beachwood, NJ)

Storylines & Stakes

Hovhannisyan’s Rise: The Armenian-born powerhouse is undefeated and coming off a dominant fifth-round KO of Dajuan Calloway. With 88% of his wins by knockout, he’s looking to claim his first regional title and break into the WBA rankings.

Thomas’ Redemption: After a five-year layoff, Thomas returned in February with a draw against Dominique Mayfield. Though not a natural heavyweight, he’s rugged and experienced, with 60 pro rounds under his belt.

Size Matters: Hovhannisyan will enter with a massive 8-inch height and 70+ lb weight advantage. His jab and reach could be decisive against the shorter, stockier Thomas.

Tactical Breakdown