Conah Walker to face Alexis Rocha in WBA world title eliminator in Wolverhampton

Conah Walker returns to Wolverhampton on December 5 to face Alexis Rocha in a WBA welterweight world title eliminator, headlining Matchroom Boxing's latest DAZN event.

Conah Walker will return to his hometown of Wolverhampton on December 5 to face American contender Alexis Rocha in a WBA welterweight boxing world title eliminator.

The 31-year-old will headline Matchroom Boxing's show at The Halls, live worldwide on DAZN, as he looks to move one step closer to a world title opportunity.

Walker (18-3-1, 9 KOs) is currently ranked third by the WBA and enters the contest on a five-fight winning streak, with four of those victories coming by stoppage.

His most recent outing saw him stop Sam Eggington in the tenth round of an entertaining contest in May, adding to an impressive run of victories over Pat McCormack, Liam Taylor, Harry Scarff and Lewis Ritson.

Now the former British and Commonwealth champion has the opportunity to strengthen his position in the world rankings in front of his home crowd.

"I'm back headlining in Wolverhampton in front my people. They aren’t fans, they are friends and family and I’ll give them another night to remember," Walker said.

"From the first bell you know what I bring and this fight won’t be any different. I want to do a right job on Rocha.

"I'm enjoying every minute of my career and a big win on December 5 puts me one step closer to winning a World Title. Let's have it!"

Rocha looking to spoil Walker's homecoming

Rocha (27-2-1, 16 KOs) arrives in the UK following consecutive victories over former world champions Joseph Diaz and José Ramírez.

The 29-year-old Californian defeated Diaz by unanimous decision in March before recording another points victory over Ramírez in September.

Represented by Golden Boy Promotions, Rocha believes victory over Walker would put him within touching distance of his own world title opportunity.

"I don't know too much about Conah Walker yet, but I've watched some videos of him, and he looks like a strong fighter who likes to come forward," Rocha said.

"This is another important step in chasing my dream. I know that a win on December 5 will bring me one step closer to earning a World Title opportunity and that's why I'm working hard every day.

"I'm excited to travel to the UK, compete in front of the fans and put on a great show."

Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn expects another big night in Wolverhampton and believes Walker has earned his opportunity to compete at the highest level.

"Conah Walker is without question, one of the most exciting fighters in the sport today," Hearn said.

"He has given us so many memorable nights and on Saturday, December 5, he will deliver an early Christmas treat in his hometown of Wolverhampton."

Golden Boy promoter Oscar De La Hoya also expects an entertaining contest between the two welterweights.

"Conah Walker is a tough, come-forward fighter, and with Alexis heading into his backyard in the UK, I expect an all-action fight," De La Hoya said.

Walker vs Rocha takes place on Saturday, December 5, at The Halls in Wolverhampton and will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN.

Nick Dacres

Nick Dacres is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Combat Evolved, overseeing the platform’s editorial direction, original video content and coverage across MMA, boxing and the wider combat sports world.

Working across journalism, interviewing and videography, Nick has covered major promotions including the UFC, Cage Warriors and PFL, while producing original content with fighters ranging from rising prospects to established names at the highest level of the sport.

His work focuses heavily on telling the stories behind the fighters, combining in-depth interviews with access to training camps and behind-the-scenes environments to give audiences a closer look at the people behind the competition.