NEW YORK (March 11, 2019)–21-time National Champion, Otha Jones III made a successful pro debut with a six-round unanimous decision over rugged Giorgi Gelashvili at The Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

Jones, who is managed by Split-T Management. was impressive by landing quick combinations against the tough fighter from New York. In round four, Jones registered a knockdown, and came home with the victory by scores of 59-53 and 58-55 twice.

Taking on such a tough opponent who came in with a 5-1 record, and had an amateur record of 110-10, and was a three-time national champion in his home country in the Republic of Georgia, in his maiden voyage, garnered Jones a lot of respect on social media after the fight, which was streamed live on DAZN.

Photo by Ed Mulholland_Matchroom Boxing

“I fought a good fighter who had a solid record in my 1st pro fight,” said the 18 year-old native of Toledo, Ohio. “I was very excited, and the crowd got to me which caused me to try to bang and knock him out. I just had to be reminded to keep my composure and stick to the game plan. I am looking to fight soon and want to fight great competition.

“A lot of people were questioning me when we chose Giorgi Gelashvilli as the first opponent. OJ3, himself wanted to show the world that he stood out from all the other prospects by making a statement and defeating another up and coming prospect, who was a 3-time national champion in his home country. This win makes him stand out like he did when he was among other champions in the amateur ranks,” said Jones Father/Trainer, Otha Jones Jr. “The world is going to see OJ3 is a force to be reckoned with and will no doubt be Eddie Hearn’s next star in boxing.”

“I am very proud of this young man. He looked for the toughest opponent Matchroom would give him, and he made a big statement,” Said David McWater of Split-T Management.

Jones is promoted by Matchroom Boxing.

NEW YORK (March 8, 2019)-21-time National Champion, Otha Jones III will make his much anticipated pro debut when he takes on Giorgi Gelashvili in a four-round super lightweight contest on Saturday night.

The bout will take place at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York, and will be streamed live on DAZN beginning at 7 PM ET.

In Gelashvili, Jones is jumping right into the fire as Gelashvili has a record of 5-1 with three knockouts, with the only loss coming via split-decision.

The 18 year old Toledo native was among the top talents in the United States, as he compiled a staggering 283-13 amateur record highlighted by representing Team USA in several international tournaments including winning a Gold Medal at the International Youth Continental Americas Tournament and Silver Medal at the Emil Jechev Memorial Tournament as well as winning several national tournaments such as the winning gold medals in United States National Championships (Twice) and the World Championship Qualifier.

Jones was also a four-time State Wrestling Champion.

“I’m the next cash cow and I want all the smoke. I picked my opponent. I picked the best one out of the three opponents that I was offered. I believe with my team. no one can come close to beating me,” said Jones.

“This will be a great fight against super tough opponent that he and his father wanted. Everyone is very excited to witness Otha’s pro debut,” said David McWater of Split-T Management.

Jones checked in at 132 1/2 lbs. at Friday’s weigh in while Gelashvili weighed 134 1/4 lbs

Jones is promoted by Matchroom Boxing.