As the Heavyweight scene in America has started to gain some steam thanks to the likes of title holder Deontay Wilder, up and coming Jarrell "Big Baby" Miller (17-0-1, 15 KO) is looking to not only make a name for himself in the loaded division, but to also become the biggest star in the sport itself.
The 28 years old native of Brooklyn, NY, has been steadily rising the ranks within the heavyweight division since he began his amateur career as a teenager. While Miller has all of the physical tools to be a standout, it's his explosive personality that will inevitably skyrocket him to the top, provided he keeps his impressive record intact. "I'm that guy" Miller recently proclaimed to the press, stating that "the more people hear me, the more people talk to me, they go 'that kid is the real deal' ".
The first step in finding out just how real of a contender Miller is comes this Friday night on Showtime, as he takes on what figures to be his toughest test to date in gritty challenger Fred Kassi of Cameroon for Miller's WBO NABO Heavyweight title. While Kassi's record of 18-5-1 with 15 KO's may not seem like world-beating material, anyone who has seen the last few fights featuring Kassi is well aware exactly how much of a step up this will be for the young challenger.
After suffering a crushing knockout at the hands of Amir Mansour in 2014, Kassi has rebounded with a string of solid performances against top opposition, including being robbed with a draw in a bout against Chris Arreola in July 2015 as well as another robbery unanimous decision loss against rising American star Dominic Breazeale. Kassi was last seen in April losing to Tyson Fury's younger brother, Hughie, when Fury was cut in the 6th round which led to a stoppage in the 7th. Kassi lost on the cards, but it was evident he was beginning to wear the younger Fury down and was taking control of the fight.
While "Big Baby" is set for stardom and a future title shot, Kassi proves to be the perfect test to see just how prepared Miller is for the next level. What Miller lacks in ring experience is all but minimalized with his incredible confidence. "Little by little, they're going to realize who 'Big Baby' is and they're going to realize what I bring to the table." Miller exclaimed. "Trust me, I'm the best thing for American boxing right now. I'm the best thing for boxing".
The showdown between Miller and Kassi will headline Showtime's "Shobox: The New Generation" series beginning at 10:00 pm.
