Cuban Power in Orlando: Lenier Pero vs. Jordan Thompson Headlines Nov. 1

Lenier Pero is back under the bright lights—and this time he’s carrying a main-event. The undefeated Cuban heavyweight (12-0, 8 KOs) will headline November 1 at Caribe Royale Orlando, meeting former cruiserweight contender Jordan Thompson (15-1, 12 KOs) in a DAZN show that doubles as a litmus test for both men.

Pero’s résumé has pop but not pace. After rallying to stop Viktor Faust two years ago, he logged just a handful of rounds before outpointing Detrailous Webster in April—a messy, foul-heavy affair that didn’t answer many questions. Still, the southpaw believes 2025 is his launch window.

“I’m going to show why I’m undefeated—and why I’m destined to become the first Cuban heavyweight champion of the world,” Pero said.

Thompson brings intrigue and risk. Best known for his September 2023 loss to elite cruiser Jai Opetaia in London, the long, rangy Brit now jumps to heavyweight after a 25-month layoff. He insists the reset will show a different version of “Troublesome.”

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity and you’re going to see my best as a heavyweight. I’ll be ready for whatever the night and occasion brings,” Thompson said.

Also slated: 22-year-old standout Omari Jones (3-0, 3 KOs), who’s set for his fourth outing in eight months against TBA on the undercard.

MainEvent.News | Backstage Take

On paper, this is a showcase—but it’s not risk-free. Pero needs rounds, rhythm, and a clean performance to justify the matchmaking faith; the talent is obvious, the activity isn’t. Thompson is dangerous if he can keep range and let the right hand play over the top, but the move up in weight plus the layoff are real asks against a sturdy southpaw. If Pero handles business with authority, he enters the deeper end of a crowded heavyweight pool. If he looks ordinary, that “future champion” talk cools fast.

Jordan Thompson's last fight was his only loss vs. Jai Opetaia
watch the match highlights below 👇