Luis Ortiz vs Charles Martin Preview

'King Kong' Luis Ortiz battles former world champion Charles Martin in the first heavyweight showdown of 2022 in Florida.

Luis Ortiz, at the age of 42, is having one last roll of the dice in this heavyweight eliminator, but really can he make his way to the top? He most notably faced former WBC champion Deontay Wilder on two separate occasions, losing on both attempts. However, he had almost become the first man to defeat the 'Bronze Bomber', but came to no avail. 

Charles Martin formerly held the IBF crown back in 2016 but served a short reign as champion after he suffered a second round KO loss to Anthony Joshua. Martin showed no credibility for himself being a champion after picking up the vacant belt but is now working his way back in to a credible position in the heavyweight rankings. Since losing his belt, he has amassed a record of 5-1, the only blemish a close battle with Adam Kownacki.

British fight fans will know Martin best for his embarrassing performance and defeat to British heavyweight hero Anthony Joshua. Before the fight, Martin had the confidence of a champion and had boxing fans thinking he could possibly trouble Joshua and be the first man to defeat the Brit, but in all honesty, his performance was not worthy of the world crown and that was showcased in just 2 rounds as Joshua steamrolled through the American.

Neither fighter has stepped in to the ring since 2022, which is a long time inactive at the age both fighters are currently. With both men edging towards the end of their careers, a win is imperative to propel either fighter up the rankings and towards a shot at the world titles. Could retirement be on the cards for the defeated?

Undercard

Frank Sanchez vs Christian Hammer 

Jonathan Rice vs Michael Coffie 

Gerald Washington vs Ali Demirezen

Frank Martin vs Romero Duno

Where to watch & Start Time

British fight fans can watch all the action from this heavyweight showdown live on Fite tv for £10.99 with the main event getting underway at approximately 4am GMT.

In the US Fight fans can watch all the action live on FOX PPV with the main event getting underway at approximately 10:30pm ET.

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