DAWSON DEBUTS ON HBO IN A REMATCH AGAINST ANTONIO TARVER

Coming into his prime at age 26, light heavyweight titleholder Chad Dawson (27-0, 17 KOs) is a rising star who is making his much-anticipated HBO debut. The New Haven, Conn. resident has quickly become one of the most feared competitors in the division, thanks to his dominating speed, size and athleticism. In the 12th round of his first encounter with the crafty Tarver last October, Dawson delivered a blow that sent his rival to the mat, eventually claiming victory.

The formidable Antonio Tarver (27-5, 19 KOs) of Orlando, Fla. boasts a perfect 3-0 record in rematches, having turned the tables on Eric Harding, Roy Jones Jr. and Glen Johnson in the sequels to those encounters. Though he was overpowered in his first battle with Dawson, Tarver is determined to settle the score in this 12-round light heavyweight title fight.

Initially slated for March 14, the fight was rescheduled to May 9 after Dawson incurred a hand injury during training.