Minneapolis-based Boxing Star David Morrell Jr. to Appear on FS1’s Nationally Televised Card next Saturday, November 2

Cuban Light heavyweight earns Prime Time slot on PBC card after a thunderous pro ring debut at the Armory   

Fresh off his electrifying knockout win at the Minneapolis Armory last summer, Minneapolis-based boxer and rising star David Morrell Jr. is getting ready to showcase his formidable skills on national TV – a rare big-stage performance for a boxer in just his second pro fight.

Morrell, a native of Cuba who now fights out of the Circle of Discipline gym in Minneapolis, will take on tough veteran Quinton Rankin on Saturday, November 2. Morrell’s bout is scheduled to be televised live as part of FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes from MGM National Harbor in Maryland. Morrell is expected to be in ring shortly after national coverage begins at 9:30 p.m. Central Time.

Morrell, a winner of 130 of 132 amateur bouts, made a big splash in his August 31 professional debut at the Armory. Showing off his explosive power, the Minneapolis-based fighter sent Yendris Váldez (2-7, 2 KOs) to the loss column in the opening round. He’s poised to be a regular attraction at the historic Minneapolis Armory.

Though Morrell enters the Nov. 2 fight with only one professional fight under his belt, he’s already a highly respected and well-rounded fighter with thunderous power, polished boxing skills and a high ring IQ.

Just 21 years old, Morrell is taking a big step up in his second pro fight. Rankin (15-6-2) has won three of his last four bouts, with the only loss coming against former world titlist Chad Dawson last June.

Morrell, who recently signed a long-term contract with Warriors Boxing of South Florida and Russia-based Ural Promotions, sounds confident as he gears up for the fight.
 “I work out every day with [welterweight contender] Jamal James’s camp, so I’m ready for my next professional test,” said Morrell Jr., who was listed as Osvary Morrell in amateur records. “I’m excited to square off against another southpaw. It will be my best against his, and I like my chances.”

“David was very impressive in his first pro fight at the Armory, but that’s way behind us,” said Sankara Frazier, Morrell’s trainer. “Our focus is on Quinton Rankin, who went the distance in his last fight against a former world champion. David is hungry but prepared for this challenge.”

Morrell’s manager, Minneapolis native and legendary promoter Luis DeCubas, can’t hold back his enthusiasm for this young boxing phenom.

“This dynamic young gun is going to be a superstar in our sport,” DeCubas said. “Morrell’s amateur record is stunning. To tell you the truth, in the ring he reminds me of a young Sugar Ray Robinson, who fittingly fought at the Armory in his prime. Minnesota boxing fans are in for a treat to see the start of a ring career we expect to soar.”

Attention reporters, editors and boxing fans to monitor post fight comments, quotes and more – follow David Morrell Jr  on Instagram david_morrelljr . 

In the main event of the November 2 card, undefeated former champion Brian Carlos Castaño will battle exciting veteran contender Wale "Lucky Boy" Omotoso in a 10-round super welterweight showdown that headlines FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes from MGM National Harbor in Maryland.

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX, FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.