Tureano Johnson ready for opportunity against Curtis Stevens

Tureano Johnson will get a chance to break out in the middleweight division when he faces former title challenger Curtis Stevens on the April 4 NBC Sports Fight Night, headlined by a heavyweight bout between Steve Cunningham and Amir Mansour.

Johnson (14-0, 10 KO) is a 30-year-old fighter out of the Bahamas who was last in the ring in February 2013, beating Willie Fortune by decision on ShoBox: The New Generation. It was a big step up in competition for Johnson, and he showed his skills, winning an eight-round shutout on all three cards.

Stevens (26-4, 19 KO) is one of the hardest punchers in the division, and another big step up from Fortune. And what of the layoff, which will be 14 months by the time he gets into the ring? Johnson says it won't be an issue.

"I've had so many fights as an amateur that boxing is like riding a bike for me. I'll know what to do as soon as I step in the ring. My body is well rested and I'll be 100% healthy going into this fight," Johnson said.

Knowing that this is a bigger chance to make a statement than his last bout, Johnson says he's ready to turn some heads and pull off the upset.

"On April 4th, the world will be introduced to Tureano Johnson. This has been a long, hard road for me filled with blood, sweat, and ruthless determination. I have been begging for this opportunity to pit my skills against the so-called best in my division," he said.

"However, it is easier said than done in this world of boxing. No one would fight me until now. I respect Curtis Stevens. He is a strong, hard-punching fighter who has been in with the best. But he can't and won't beat me. To all the fans, don't miss this fight on NBC Sports. I'm sure it is going to be a throw-back fight. It has been said that I'm not the most "technical" fighter out there. Well it's true. I like to mix it up, throw hard punches, and get a little barbaric in the ring. I'm coming to fight and win impressively. After April 4th, I know I will get the fights I deserve."

"Tureano Johnson is a very special fighter with an incredible work ethic," said promoter Gary Shaw. "With that being said, he'll have every opportunity to showcase his skills on the big stage. Against Stevens, I expect he'll be tested, but I know he'll adapt to anything he brings, and win the fight. This will be another excellent fight, one the fans will not want to miss."