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In New York, New York, Houston professional boxer O’Shaquie Foster is gearing up to defend his WBC junior lightweight title against challenger Abraham Nova at The Theater at Madison Square Garden this Friday.
The 30-year-old champion, hailing from Orange but training in Houston, is readying himself for his second defense of the WBC strap and headlining the main event at one of boxing’s iconic venues. Foster, known by the monikers “Ice Water” and “Shock,” faces tough competition in the sport’s sweet science.
ABC13 caught up with Foster ahead of the fight to discuss his journey to success, which began during the turbulent times of Hurricane Harvey when he was incarcerated in Harris County on an assault charge.
“During my time there, Hurricane Harvey hit the jail, leaving us in the dark for days. I felt like I had nobody. Boxing became my lifeline,” Foster shared.
After serving four months in jail and receiving probation, Foster relocated to Houston, residing in FEMA rooms and recommitting himself to boxing.
With a professional record of 21-2 (12 KOs), Foster joins Houston’s roster of boxing champions alongside natives Jermell Charlo and Jermall Charlo.
Recently, Foster inked a multi-year deal with Top Rank Boxing, owned by legendary promoter Bob Arum. His rise to prominence culminated in a unanimous decision victory over Rey Vargas in February 2023, followed by a spectacular 12th-round TKO win against Eduardo Hernandez in October 2023.
Focused on his upcoming bout, Foster aims to unify the junior lightweight division, eyeing marquee matchups in the future.
On February 16, Foster seeks to showcase his skills in “the city that never sleeps,” aiming to captivate the audience with his performance.
The fight will be broadcasted on ESPN, airing at 8 p.m. CST.