With a 2013 that’s seen most of his momentum stalled, heavyweight Bryant Jennings has made a significant change to his team lineup in signing a co-promotional contract with Gary Shaw and Antonio Leonard Promotions.
Jennings has fought just once this year, notching a sixth round stoppage over Andrey Fedosov in June. Previously aligned with Main Events, Jennings was passed over for a potential HBO date in November against Tomasz Adamek when a dispute arose between his manager, James Prince, and Main Events CEO Kathy Duva.
“I’m glad I’m finally moving forward in my career with a great team,” said Bryant Jennings in a statement. “Gary Shaw and Antonio Leonard are two great promoters who have been in this sport for many years and have promoted some of the biggest fights in boxing history. I’m ecstatic to be managed by James Prince because he’s guided the careers of many world champions and his knowledge as a boxing manager is impeccable. It’s truly a blessing to have these experienced gentlemen working on my behalf. I’m ready to take my career to the next level.”
Gary Shaw and James Prince consider the deal a reunion of sorts, as both worked together to guide the career of the late Diego Corrales. They hope to utilize a similar career strategy with Jennings in setting up a succession of tough, high-profile fights against the elites of the division.
“I’m just excited to be working with Gary Shaw Productions and Antonio Leonard Promotions once again,” Prince explained. “It was beautiful ride we all had with the late Diego Corrales and once again I feel like I’m bringing them an outstanding fighter in American Bryant Jennings, who I believe is the best heavyweight in the world.”
At press time, Jennings’ camp has not disclosed if there are plans for him to fight again in 2013.
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Gary Shaw isn’t the first name you think of concerning American promoters that have had success with heavyweights. In fact, I can’t think of a notable name he’s guided in that division. But after the very public issues with James Prince and Kathy Duva, he had to do something. Adamek being moved away from him, after having spent two years on undercards working towards that bout. was the final straw.
As with any promoter, Shaw has promised to get Jennings big fights. In theory, those fights can come on either network (HBO, Showtime). You know someone like Tony Thompson is always down. Jennings called out Arreola after the Mitchell fight, and I’d love that fight if Chris isn’t set on facing Wilder next. If Jennings were to win, do not be surprised if a Klitschko comes calling.
Beats, Boxing and Mayhem 