Jordan Thompson Set to Reaffirm His Boxing Legacy in Showdown with Lenier Pero
Jordan Thompson is poised to make a significant impact in the boxing world as he returns to the ring after a lengthy absence of 25 months. This Saturday, he makes his heavyweight debut against the undefeated Lenier Pero, a matchup that signifies a crucial moment in Thompson’s career.
Jordan Thompson’s Boxing Comeback
Thompson, who has a professional record of 15 wins and just one loss, will be headlining a Matchroom Boxing event on DAZN at the Caribe Royale in Orlando. His last fight was a tough defeat at the hands of IBF cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia on September 30, 2023. That bout ended in a fourth-round stoppage, leading Thompson to reconsider his weight class.
A New Chapter in Heavyweight Boxing
At 32 years old and standing at 6 feet 6 inches, Thompson is stepping up to the heavyweight division after contemplating this transition for a while. He described the past two years as a time of self-reflection and growth, stating, “I’m more confident than ever.” He believes the period away from competitive boxing has revitalized his focus and determination to perform.
The opportunity to face Lenier Pero comes after a series of discussions with his team regarding Thompson’s move up in weight class. “Heavyweight was discussed the fight before Jai,” Thompson noted. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the cruiserweight division but stated that the allure of a world title candidacy drove his previous decisions.
Lenier Pero: A Tough Opponent
Lenier Pero, hailing from Camaguey, Cuba, boasts an impressive record of 12 wins, with 8 coming by knockout. At 32 years old, Pero is ranked No. 3 by the WBA and is recognized for his knockout power. He recently secured a victory over Detrailous Webster by unanimous decision, showcasing his skills in the ring.
The Stakes of the Match
This matchup is pivotal for both fighters. For Thompson, it’s an opportunity to reassert his presence in boxing and validate his potential as a heavyweight contender. For Pero, it represents a chance to further his career and solidify his ranking.
- Jordan Thompson: 15 wins (12 KOs), 1 loss
- Lenier Pero: 12 wins (8 KOs), 0 losses
- Last Fight for Thompson: September 30, 2023, loss to Jai Opetaia
- Pero’s Last Fight: April 18, 2023, victory over Detrailous Webster
As the boxing community prepares for this exciting showdown, all eyes will be on Thompson to see if he can reclaim his status and make a lasting impression in the heavyweight division against a formidable opponent like Pero.