HOUSTON, Texas — A major cross-promotional clash is officially locked in. O’Shaquie Foster will defend his WBC junior lightweight title against Raymond Ford on May 30 at the Fertitta Center, with the fight streaming globally on DAZN.
For Foster (24-3, 12 KOs), the bout carries added significance. The Orange, Texas native will headline in Houston for the first time as a world champion—a milestone moment in his career. “It’s a dream come true,” Foster said. “We will dominate from round one.”
Foster enters the fight in strong form, coming off a dominant victory over Stephen Fulton and a successful rebound stretch that includes avenging his controversial loss to Robson Conceicao.
Ford (18-1-1, 9 KOs), a former WBA featherweight champion, has been calling for this opportunity and now he has it. The Camden, New Jersey native is unbeaten since moving up to 130 pounds and sees this as his chance to become a two-division world champion. “I’m taking that belt on May 30,” Ford said.
Ford’s momentum includes a win over Abraham Nova and a steady climb back into title contention after losing his 126-pound belt to Nick Ball.
The fight also highlights the growing collaboration between Top Rank and Matchroom Boxing. Foster is promoted by Top Rank, while Ford represents Matchroom a pairing that continues a trend of major inter-promotional matchups.
Promoter Eddie Hearn is confident his fighter will deliver. “We’ve been here before… and we believe lightning strikes twice,” Hearn said.
What’s at Stake
This isn’t just a title defense it’s a pivotal moment for both fighters:
For Foster:
- Defend his WBC title
- Strengthen case for unification vs. Emanuel Navarrete
- Solidify status among the division’s elite
For Ford:
- Become a two-division world champion
- Validate his move up to 130 pounds
- Score a career-defining victory
Bad Blood Brewing
There’s also growing tension between the two. Recent face-offs and public comments have added an edge to what was already a high-stakes matchup. According to Top Rank president Todd duBoef, Foster is ready to settle it emphatically. “We expect Foster to silence the chatter with a dominant performance.”
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