Cub Hawkins is dropping from light heavyweight to middleweight to face Rowdy Montgomery at BKB Bally’s Fight Night in Biloxi. The former cruiserweight champion says his immediate priority is defending his 175-pound title; a future matchup with middleweight champion LT Nelson is possible if the timing and pay make sense.

By the Numbers
  • Hawkins is moving down two weight classes, from light heavyweight to middleweight.
  • He has held BKB titles at cruiserweight and light heavyweight and is pursuing a third division belt.
Yes, But

Hawkins says the middleweight cut was difficult, and he has not yet defended his light heavyweight belt. He also acknowledged Montgomery is an opponent he leaves his coaches to study, rather than scouting himself.

State of Play
  • Hawkins’ focus is Montgomery, with a defense of his 175-pound title still his stated priority.
  • A fight with LT Nelson remains a possibility, depending on the opportunity and financial terms.
  • Hawkins expects to attend Yunieski Gonzalez’s cruiserweight matchup with Dan Lerwell.
What's Next

Hawkins first needs to get past Montgomery. A title defense at 175 pounds could follow before he considers pursuing Nelson or another championship.

Bottom Line

Hawkins is chasing a third BKB title, but he says proving himself as light heavyweight champion starts with defending the belt he already holds.