Armenian heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan to fight in his first career title bout

Undefeated Armenian heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan (8-0, 8 KOs) will fight for his first professional title on July 18 in Orlando, USA. "Big Hugo" will face American Chris Thomas (15-1-2, 10 KOs) from New Jersey. The WBA Continental North America heavyweight title will be on the line. The fight is scheduled for 10 rounds and will headline the event.

For the 26-year-old native of Yerevan, who fights under the Armenian flag and is based in Los Angeles, this is a significant step toward global recognition. Hovhannisyan is determined:

“Thomas is an experienced and dangerous opponent. He can't be underestimated. But I’ve trained hard for this moment. Winning the WBA Continental North America title is my path to a world championship,” said Hovhannisyan, who is promoted by Boxlab and TGB Promotions.

Gurgen last fought in April 2025, when he impressively knocked out 190-kg American DaJuan Calloway (11-4).

Hovhannisyan is known as a powerful puncher, with all eight of his victories coming by knockout. The fight against Thomas will be his first serious test as a professional and could open the door to top-tier heavyweight rankings.