“Signing with Don King brings me closer to my goal of winning a world championship,” Mamadjonov said. “That is what drives me every day. I want to win a world title for my family and the people of Uzbekistan who always believed in me.”

“Don King is a superstar in my country,” Mamadjonov said. “I can’t wait to tell everyone back home he is now my promoter,” he added.

“I am extremely pleased and proud to have Baha with me,” Don King said.

“I expect great things from this young man because he’s dedicated and committed to becoming a world champion. He took the fight with Santana on almost no notice and stopped a great lightweight. He wants to bring a world title back home for him and the people of Uzbekistan,” he added.

Mamadjonov conducted over 200 fights in amateur boxing and two years ago moved to Houston to turn professional under the guidance of trainer Ken Richardson. He has fought often and risen rapidly as evidenced by his record: 13-1 with nine knockouts.