Tacoma, WA, USA (December, 29, 2023) - Hall of Fame Boxing Trainer Joe Goossen holds firm belief that Gurgen “Big Gug” Hovhannisyan, headlining the event “Pit Stop on the Road to Greatness” on January 4th, deserves a place among the top five heavyweight prospects worldwide.

The upcoming card, presented by Toro Promotions and Whitfield Haydon Boxing, is set to be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com pay-per-view for $19.99 from the renowned Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington.

Hovhannisyan, a 25-year-old native of Armenia boasting a record of 4-0 with 4 KOs) steps into the 10-round main event against Colby Madison 11-6-2 with 7 KOs. Standing tall at 6’ 7” and weighing 275 pounds, “Big Gug,” now based in Los Angeles, returns after a year's hiatus following a striking sixth-round stoppage of Michael Polite Coffie in 2022.

According to Goossen, “If you were to assess the top 10 or 15 heavyweight prospects, Gurgen unquestionably secures a spot in the top five. Witnessing him train in our gym leaves no one unimpressed. At 275 pounds, he moves with surprising agility. Despite only four pro fights, his talent is evident. He's versatile, employing two or three styles seamlessly in any bout. Additionally, he's resilient and possesses all the vital attributes: size, power, a winning mindset, and an exceptional work ethic. Gurgen can box tactically, gradually wearing down his opponent, yet he thrives on pressing forward.”

When it comes to fighting style, Goossen draws a physical comparison between Hovhannisyan and world champion Tyson Fury, noting Fury's adaptability in his fights against Deontay Wilder.

“Gurgen has the potential to reach the top,” Goossen confidently predicts. “He dominated Coffee, who was on the rise until their bout. Gurgen caused a significant shift that perhaps wouldn't have occurred against an easier opponent. Coffee, weighing 290 pounds of muscle and a former Marine, was a risk in Gurgen's fourth fight. However, our belief in Gurgen was validated. He's the driving force in our gym, appreciating teachings and exhibiting a deep respect for everyone he encounters. Gurgen is disciplined, courteous, and diligently fulfills gym duties. He's perceptive, observant, and misses no detail, both inside and outside the ring, a quality that translates exceptionally well in his fights.”