By TMZ

Former champion Kassim Ouma was arrested for battery in L.A. on Friday -- after knocking out a man who was allegedly making gay advances toward him ... TMZ Sports has learned.

Ouma says the two went back to the other man's home for a drink ... where the guy allegedly made a pass at the boxer.

We're told ... Ouma claims he politely declined multiple advances ... but says when he got up to leave, the guy made one final move -- and Ouma shoved him away.

The altercation then escalated ... with Ouma allegedly knocking the guy out cold.

Cops were called to the scene -- where the victim was treated and transported to a nearby hospital.

Ouma was ultimately arrested for felony battery causing great bodily harm.

We tried to contact Ouma for comment -- but he's still behind bars.