(July 24th) One of boxing's most unique annual events returns to Southern California this summer as Butterfly Brawl brings an action-packed night of professional boxing, live entertainment, and charitable giving to the world-famous Santa Monica Pier on Saturday, August 22nd.

Promoted by Fightbook, under the leadership of Founder and President Mark Habibi, in association with Bash Boxing, Butterfly Brawl has grown into one of the nation's premier independent boxing showcases, blending high-level competition with a festival atmosphere unlike any other in the sport. Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, the open-air event has become known for delivering memorable fights while raising significant support for charitable causes.

Continuing that tradition, all net ticket proceeds and sponsorship revenue from the 2026 Butterfly Brawl will benefit Teen Cancer America, the nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of teenagers and young adults facing cancer. Founded by legendary musicians Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend of The Who, Teen Cancer America works with hospitals throughout the United States to develop specialized treatment spaces and support programs designed specifically for adolescent and young adult cancer patients.

"The Butterfly Brawl has become so much more than just boxing," said Mark Habibi, Founder and President of Fightbook. "It's a chance for our community to come together, enjoy an incredible night of fights and entertainment, and at the same time make a real difference in the lives of young people battling cancer. Every sponsor, every ticket, and every fan attending is helping support Teen Cancer America while giving these fighters the opportunity to perform on one of the most spectacular stages in boxing."

Headlining the evening is former WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio Cesar Martinez (20-4, 15 KOs) of Mexico City, who moves into bantamweight to face Santa Ana's Mario Hernandez (13-8, 4 KOs) in an eight-round showdown expected to deliver fireworks.

One of the night's most anticipated matchups features unbeaten super middleweight Art Barrera Jr. (12-0, 9 KOs), who faces Argentina's Brian Agustin Arregui (12-8, 7 KOs) in a battle between heavy-handed contenders at 168 pounds.

The undercard showcases an impressive collection of undefeated prospects and rising talent from across the country. Los Angeles lightweight Criztec Bazaldua (7-2, 2 KOs) meets Stockton's Sachin Rohila (8-5), while unbeaten Hesperia prospect Abel Alba (3-0) takes on Mississippi newcomer Terry Brister, who makes his professional debut.

Also appearing are highly regarded middleweight twin brothers Nikolai Terteryan (3-0, 3 KOs) and Sebastian Terteryan (1-0, 1 KO), originally from Fresno and now training in Las Vegas. Both Golden Boy-promoted prospects have opened their professional careers with knockout victories and look to continue their perfect finishes.

Los Angeles super flyweight Steven Navarro (8-1, 5 KOs) returns in an eight-round attraction against an opponent to be announced. Additional undefeated and emerging prospects scheduled to compete include DeAngelo "Muscle" Evans (15-0, 14 KOs), Tommy Hyde (13-0, 8 KOs), Ebenezer Griffith (8-0, 3 KOs), Jalan Walker (16-1-1, 11 KOs), Sasha Martha Saldana (3-0, 1 KO), Joseph Subia (4-1-1, 3 KOs), Jason Robledo (1-0), along with professional debutants Aliko Shakur, Ilene Herrera and Raymon Mosquera.

Beyond the action inside the ring, Butterfly Brawl has earned a reputation as one of boxing's premier crossover entertainment events. This year's celebration features legendary DJ Mixmaster Mike of the Beastie Boys, joined by hip-hop icons Mellow Man Ace, A Lighter Shade of Brown, and Stefano, continuing a tradition that has previously welcomed performances and appearances by The Black Eyed Peas, Snoop Dogg, Anderson .Paak, and Jermaine Dupri.

Adding even more star power, reigning four-division world champion Terence "Bud" Crawford is expected to attend in support of the event, further highlighting Butterfly Brawl's growing stature within the boxing community.

Originally established in 2017 as the Butterfly Ball, the event was created to honor the life of Yassy Hosseini while supporting charitable organizations, including City of Hope. Over the years, it has evolved into Butterfly Brawl, combining championship-caliber boxing with entertainment and philanthropy while continuing its mission of giving back through impactful nonprofit partnerships.

Fightbook also continues to expand opportunities for fighters nationwide through its free digital platform connecting athletes, promoters, managers, trainers, and matchmakers. Amateur and professional fighters interested in future events are encouraged to create a profile at Fightbook.com.

Butterfly Brawl begins at 2:00 p.m. PDT at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, located at 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, California.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased through the official event ticketing portal. Corporate sponsorship packages and premium partnership opportunities remain available for businesses seeking high-visibility brand integration throughout the event.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, fighter registration, and additional event information, visit www.Fightbook.com.