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Heavyweight hope Jared Anderson to return against Ryad Merhy on April 13

Popular American heavyweight Jared ‘The Real Big Baby’ Anderson will make his 2024 debut in April.

Anderson boxes on April 13 in Corpus Christi, Texas, when he meets Ryad Merhy, as first reported by Mike Coppinger of ESPN.

Anderson fought three times last year, twice as a main eventer. The Merhy fight will make it his third appearance at the top of the bill. 

Anderson was taken to the final bell for the first time in his career when he faced Charles Martin in July. 

Anderson (16-0, 15 KO), who is 24-years-old, is originally from Toledo, Ohio, but has relocated to Texas. 

His opponent, Merhy (32-2, 26 KO) is a 31-year-old who has spent most of his career at cruiserweight. 

He is a former WBA cruiserweight world champion, but lost a fight for the WBC bridgerweight title to South African Kevin Lerena. 

In December, Merhy won a split decision over French heavyweight contender Tony Yoka, who won gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics.