Kenan Arena will host triple main event card on April 14.

Staff Reports Lockport Union-Sun & Journal

LOCKPORT — United States WKA undefeated light heavyweight champion Amer Abdallah (11-0) of Lockport has accepted an offer to defend his title on April 14 at Lockport’s historic Kenan Center Arena. Abdallah’s opponent is hard-hitting T.J. Gibson (14-2) of Duluth, Minn.

“We look forward to a tremendous training camp,” said Team Abdallah manager Ahmed Imamovic. “As always, we’re proud to be able to put on this caliber of fight for our  Western New York hometown fans.”

Gibson, a former IKF heavyweight world champion, is known for his tremendous punching power and iron chin. He’s never been stopped in his career and is among the most durable light heavyweights in the world. Currently, ranked at the top of the Light Heavyweight Division, Gibson has dabbled in MMA and pro boxing.

“T.J.’s getting back to his roots of kickboxing. That’s where he’s at his best,” said Gibson’s manager and trainer Frank Maki. “We’re happy that we finally found a worthy opponent. We’re going to go toe-to-toe and put on a great fight. T.J.’s hungry, confident and we want the title. At the end, we respect all, but fear none. It’s going to be a plus fighting in Lockport because we want Amer to feel comfortable enough to let his guard down. Believe me, we’ll take full advantage of that. He thinks he’s got the judge’s decision, but we’re not leaving it up to the judges.”

Imamovic said Abdallah never takes anyone lightly.

“If T.J. thinks he’s going to come to Lockport and take this title, he’s in for a rude awakening,” Imamovic said.

“Gibson’s team is counting on us to slip up and give them a chance to win. That was their second mistake. The first was signing the contract to fight Amer.”