Galway’s O’Donnell secures title fight on massive WBSS final card

John O’Donnell [33(11)-2(1)] will challenge Abass Baraou [7(4)-0] for the WBC International super-welterweight title on the World Boxing Super Series Card at The O2 on October 26.

The 33-year-old southpaw has won the Commonwealth, English and Southern Area titles during his career, and will now look to add another belt to his collection later this month.

Unbeaten Baraou (7-0, 4 KOs) puts his belt on the line after recently picking up a stoppage win on the Rotunda Rumble card in September, but O’Donnell has fired a warning towards his rival ahead of their showdown.

O’Donnell said: “It will not be easy for Abass to box in front of such a big crowd. I just have more experience, you can not buy that.

“I think the fans can look forward to a good fight. I want to thank MTK Global, Eddie Hearn, WBSS and Team Sauerland for getting me on this event – I will not disappoint anyone.”

Baraou added: “I’m looking forward to boxing next in London after my international debut in Dubai. Boxing is extremely big in England and I’m looking forward to the atmosphere in the O2 Arena.

“I am always looking for new challenges and my promoter Sauerland makes that possible again and again. Since I’m fully back in training since my last fight, there’s nothing in the way of my title defence and victory.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland said: “Fighting on the WBSS card and being able to show his talent on TV worldwide is another excellent chance for Abass.

“The British fans are among the best and will love his fighting style. Abass is a fast, skilled and very action packed boxer. We fully believe in him and see him on the way to the top. He has already beaten two former world champions and is not too far from being able to compete with the current ones.”