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By Norm Frauenheim

LAS VEGAS —David Benavidez promised dominance. He promised to seize a Cinco de May torch that has belonged to Julio Cesar Chavez, Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather and Canelo Alvarez.

For one night, the dominance was there.

So, too was that torch, which Benavidez grabbed with the fastest hands in a dangerous business. It belonged to him Saturday night and perhaps in future years after he claimed a third title in a third division with a sixth-round knockout of Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena.

Benavidez, born-and-forged in Phoenix, is the first in history to win titles at 168 pounds, 175 and 200. In effect, he took the snoozer out of cruiser with hands that move at a rocket rate.

“Speed, power and punch selection,” Benavidez (32-0, 26 KOs) said.”That’s what I do. I’ll fight anybody. Don’t efff with me.”

Zurdo (48-2, 30 KOs) tried. But he had no way of dealing with Benavidez’ singular hand speed. HIs trademark flurries are a blitzkrieg. They overwhelm.

In the fourth round, Zurdo saw it coming at him from angles he never expected. His only escape was to take a knee. A storm shelter wasn’t available. He would got back onto his feet, blood smeared across his nose and both cheeks.

All the while, Zurdo tried to subdue Benavidez with his bigger body and advertised power. 

Benavidez answered the opening bell, looking smaller and somewhat cautious. Within the first round’s final minute, however, he landed the first significant punch, a short right hand. Zurdo countered. Then, however, Benavidez unleashed one of  those swirling, blinding flurries, It was a sign of things to come.

In the second, Zurdo introduced Benavidez to some of that power. It was enough to back Bhim up a step or two. But Zurdo would quickly discover there was nothing he could do to slow down  those hands

In the final second of the sixth, he encountered them again. Still, no counter. This time, the punches cascaded off of Zurdo’s face like incoming waves. Blood poured from his left eye. The right began to swell and take on the color of a purple grape. With one second left in the sixth, it was over. Cinco de Mayo, 2026, officially belonged to Benavidez, who stood in the middle of the ring and repeated his long-standing challenge to Canelo Alvarez, the last man to possess the valuable date..

There was no immediate answer from Canelo, who was at ringside. Then again, Canelo had just witnessed another reason nobody has been able to beat Benavidez, who — hands down — possesses the most devastating weapon in the prizefighting business.

Munguia wins belt, scores dominant decision

Jaime Munguia promised he would return to Tijuana with a title.

Promise fulfilled.

Munguia (46-3, 35 KOs) is homeward bound with a World Boxing Association super-middleweight belt in his bags after he easily beat Armando Resendiz ((48-2, 30 KOs)with superior hand speed, precision and even some surprising endurance.Saturday in the final fight before the David Benavidez-Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez main event at T-Mobile Arena.

For all but the final seconds of the final round, the fight was a mismatch. Put it this way: Munguia dominated Resendiz the way Canelo Alvarez dominated Munguia two years ago. Canelo was there, seated at ringside in support of Munguia. Canelo, who wore a T-shirt that said Jaime, is trained by Eddy Reynoso, who also trains Munguia, who left the ring amid a chorus of Cinco de Mayo cheers.

Within the first few moments, it was clear that Resendiz never had a chance. The scorecards would confirm that. It was Munguia –117-111, 119-109, 120-108. Only in the final seconds did it ever look as if Resendiz, a fellow Mexican, had a chance. 

Munguia was attempting to score a knockout. He swung wildly, leaving himself open. That’s when Resendiz landed a huge overhand right. But Munguia withstood it. Seconds later, he had his promised belt. 

Duarte wins controversial split decision

It began in controversy.

It ended in controversy.

For the winner, there were boos, lots of them.

Oscar Duarte heard them after he was given a split decision over Angel Fierro Saturday night on a Cinco de Mayo card featuring David Benavidez against Zurdo Ramirez at T-Mobile Arena.

“I thought I won this fight,” Duarte (31-2-1, 23 KOs) said. “I believe I won this fight.”

But the chorus of boos said loudly that many didn’t agree. Fierro looked to be in control early. Then, Duarte fought his way back over the final few rounds. Two cards had it for Duarte, 115-113 and 116-112. The third had it 116-112 for Fierro, The Boxing Hour scored it a draw.

Fierro, who was three-plus pounds over the 140-pound mandatory Friday, rocked Duarte repeatedly in the early rounds with a right, a lightning bolt of a punch. Fierro also got floored after the bell ending the fourth. But that right continued to land over the next couple of rounds.

Jose Tito Sanchez wakes up crowd, scores stoppage 

A restless, late-arriving crowd finally got a wake up call, delivered by Jose Tito Sanchez.

Sanchez (16-0, 10 KOs) threw a succession of powerful combinations that put Jorge Chavez down twice in the 10th, a round that finally got  fans out of their seats Saturday at T-Mobile Arena Saturday night on the Benavidez-Zurdo card.

After seven slow-paced bouts on the undercard, Sanchez struck. Suddenly, the crowd roared. It was as if Cinco de Mayo had finally arrived. Only Chavez (18-1-1, 14 KOs), a junior-featherweight from Tijuana, didn’t celebrate. 

First ,a five-punch combo dropped him flat on the canvas. Somehow, he got upright. But not for long. Sanchez, of Cathedral City CA,  quickly followed with another multi-punch combo, finishing Chavez at 2:30 of the 10th.

Ismael Flores scores 154-pound upset

Ismael Flores combined pressure to poise and added just enough patience to a thorough attack that left Isaac Lucero with only one option.

He backpedaled, backpedaled all the way into a  one-sided scorecard loss Saturday on the card featuring Benavidez-Zurdo Saturday at T-Mobile Arena

Flores (18-1-1, 12 KOs), a junior-middleweight from Argentina, sustained his tactical mix throughout 10 rounds, scoring a 98-92, 99-91, 98-92 upset of the favored Mexican, (18-1, 14 KOs), a 9-to-1 betting favorite at opening bell.

Blancas ices Salomon, wins decision

Daniel Blancas calls himself “The Ice Man.” Raul Salomon found out why.

Blancos, still an unbeaten (15-0, 7 KOs) super-middleweight from Milwaukee, repeatedly stopped Salomon’s forward pursuit throughout most of a hard-fought 10 rounds on Benavidez-Zurdo card Saturday at T-Mobile Arena. 

It often looked as if the chilling sting in Blanco’s pouches froze Salomon (16-4-1, 14 KOs) in his tracks, leaving the Southern California fighter without many alternatives in a unanimous-decision loss

Capetillo escapes with narrow decision

Dylan Capetillo, a Las Vegas junior-welterweight, scored repeatedly throughout three-plus rounds and then held onto his scorecard advantage, eluding a late charge from James Pierce for a narrow decision Saturday in the fifth bout on a pay-per-view card featuring Benavidez-Zurdo Saturday at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena.

Capetillo won 39-37 on all three cards over Pierce (2-1, 2 KOs), a Phoenix fighte

Carrillo stays unbeaten, delivers body-shot KO

It only takes one punch and Jose Carrillo, of Colombia, threw it, a lethal body shot that sent Marlon Delgado onto the canvas and kept him there for a fifth-round knockout in the fourth bout Saturday on the card featuring Benavidez-Zurdo at T-Mobile Arena..

The punch suddenly reversed Carrillo’s fortunes. Through four rounds, Carrillo (15-0, 11 KOs) was losing to a more active and precise Delgado, an Ecuadorian who lost for the first time in nine light-heavyweight bouts (8-1, 6 KOs).

No knockdowns, no winner either

There were no knockdowns. No cuts or bruising punches..

In the end, there was no winner either.

Julio Ocampo Hernandez, a Washington fighter who trains at David Benavidez’ Seattle gym, and Carlos Lewis, of Oklahoma City, fought to a draw in the third bout on the Benavidez-Zurdo-featured card Saturday.

Neither lightweight could gain much of an advantage throughout the six rounds.One judge scored 58-56 for Hernandez (9-0-1, 5 KOs). One judge scored 58-56 for Lewis (5-1-1, 3 KOs). On the third scorecard, it was 55-55.

Junior-welterweight Javier Meza dominates, wins TKO

Junior welterweight Javier Meza had more hand speed, more power, more accuracy.

More of everything.

Meza (6-0, 3 KOs) overwhelmed Damonte Smith (3-1, 1 KO), an Iowa fighter was knocked down twice in the fourth and was finished, a TKO victim, in the fifth round of the second fight on the Benavidez-Zurdo card Saturday afternoon at T-Mobile Arena.

First Bell: Middleweight Khamukov delivers opening salvo, wins decision

Sometime between brunch and lunch, the show opened in a ring with more people within the ropes than in the seats.

About eight hours before David Benavidez and Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez would enter the ring, middleweights Petr Khamukov (14-1,6 KOs) of Los Angeles and Bernard Joseph of Massachusetts got things started in an empty T-Mobile Arena.

With punches echoing throughout the venue, a more aggressive Khamukov, prevailed winning a 10-round unanimous decision, 99-91, 98-92, 99-91.

Las Vegas (April 20, 2026) – Two-division world champion Daniel Ponce de León confirmed that he will appear at the Ninth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 2, 2026 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between David Benavidez vs Zurdo Ramirez, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.?
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Ponce de León will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend.  ?
?

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan experience event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs, Canelo vs. GGG III, Canelo vs Munguia and Canelo vs Crawford.

The Box Fan Expo is thrilled to open its doors to boxing fans from all over the world, as well to all major boxing companies, promoters and industry people during this Mexican holiday weekend.

Centered in boxing’s long-time home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. A full day of boxing fan experience awaits you! https://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo 

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2026

Ponce de León will make his first appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Ponce de León will also have merchandise on sale at his booth, and fans will have an opportunity to take pictures with this former world champion also known as “El León”.   ?
?

Ponce de León joins Shawn Porter, Miguel Berchelt, Marcos Maidana, Teofimo Lopez, James Toney, Shane Mosley, Thomas Hearns, Roy Jones Jr., José Luis Castillo, Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced. ?
?

About Daniel Ponce de León

Daniel Ponce de León is a former two-division world champion from Chihuahua, Mexico, known for his relentless pressure, knockout power, and aggressive southpaw style. He turned professional in 2001 and quickly rose to prominence, capturing the WBO Super Bantamweight Championship in 2005 and defending it against top competition. In 2012, he claimed the WBC Featherweight World Title with a stoppage victory over Jhonny González, becoming a two-division champion. Throughout his career, he faced elite opponents such as Juan Manuel López, Adrien Broner, and Abner Mares. With over 40 wins and more than 30 knockouts, Ponce de León earned a reputation as one of boxing’s most exciting and durable fighters, and he remains a respected figure representing Mexico’s proud boxing tradition.

About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport. 

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Lennox Lewis, Julio Cesar Chavez, Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Sugar Ray Leonard, Tommy Hearns, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Sugar Shane Mosley, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Claressa Shields, Fernando Vargas, Edgar Berlanga, Oscar Valdez, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Vinny Paz, Juan Francisco Estrada Mia St. John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Chiquita Gonzalez, Badou Jack, Nico Ali Walsh, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs and many more…

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few weeks, leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite:

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2026

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on X and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

Las Vegas (April 14, 2026) – Two-time world champion Shawn Porter confirmed that he will appear at the Ninth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 2, 2026 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between David Benavidez vs Zurdo Ramirez, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Porter will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend. ?
?

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan experience event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs, Canelo vs. GGG III, Canelo vs Munguia and Canelo vs Crawford.

The Box Fan Expo is thrilled to open its doors to boxing fans from all over the world, as well to all major boxing companies, promoters and industry people during this Mexican holiday weekend.

Centered in boxing’s long-time home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. A full day of boxing fan experience awaits you! https://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo 

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2026

Porter will make his eighth appearance at this years’ Expo and will showcase his streaming Podcast show “The PorterWay Podcast”. Porter will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. He will also have merchandise on sale at his booth, and fans will have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing star also known as “Showtime”. @theporterwaypod @ShowtimeShawnP ?
?

Porter joins Miguel Berchelt, Marcos Maidana, Teofimo Lopez, James Toney, Shane Mosley, Thomas Hearns, Roy Jones Jr., José Luis Castillo, Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.?
?

About Shawn Porter

Porter is a retired American professional boxer who competed from 2008 to 2021. He is a Two-time former welterweight world champion, having held the IBF title from 2013 to 2014 and the WBC title from 2018 to 2019. He is particularly known for his aggressive pressure fighting style, physical strength and high work rate. Some of his most noticeable fights came against Danny Garcia, Keith Thurman, Errol Spence Jr., Adrien Broner, Paulie Malignaggi, Andre Berto and Kell Brook to name a few. He currently runs a popular streaming show “The PorterWay Podcast” which allow boxing enthusiast to watch great interviews with some of their favorite boxing celebrities. Porter is also known as a great commentator on many boxing platforms

About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport. 

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Lennox Lewis, Julio Cesar Chavez, Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Sugar Ray Leonard, Tommy Hearns, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Sugar Shane Mosley, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Claressa Shields, Fernando Vargas, Edgar Berlanga, Oscar Valdez, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Vinny Paz, Juan Francisco Estrada Mia St. John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Chiquita Gonzalez, Badou Jack, Nico Ali Walsh, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs and many more…

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few weeks, leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite:

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2026

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on X and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

Las Vegas (April 8, 2026) – Former World Champion Miguel Berchelt confirmed that he will appear at the Ninth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 2, 2026 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between David Benavidez vs Zurdo Ramirez, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.?
?

Berchelt will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend. 

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan experience event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs, Canelo vs. GGG III, Canelo vs Munguia and Canelo vs Crawford.

The Box Fan Expo is thrilled to open its doors to boxing fans from all over the world, as well to all major boxing companies, promoters and industry people during this Mexican holiday weekend.

Centered in boxing’s long-time home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. A full day of boxing fan experience awaits you! https://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo 

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2026

Berchelt will make his first appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Berchelt will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy at his booth. Boxing fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing star also known as “Alacrán”.

Berchelt joins Marcos Maidana, Teofimo Lopez, James Toney, Shane Mosley, Thomas Hearns, Roy Jones Jr., José Luis Castillo, Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.??
??

About Miguel Berchelt

Miguel Berchelt is a former WBC Super Featherweight World Champion from Cancún, Mexico, widely regarded as one of the premier Mexican champions of his era. Known for his relentless pressure, durability, and knockout power, Berchelt captured the WBC title in 2017 with a dominant stoppage victory over Francisco Vargas. During his championship reign from 2017 to 2021, Berchelt successfully defended his title six times against elite competition, including Takashi Miura, Miguel Román, Jason Sosa, and Francisco Vargas in their rematch, delivering a series of exciting, high-action performances that cemented his reputation as a fan favorite, solidifying his reputation as one of the most exciting fighters in the sport. He has also been featured in high-profile bouts against Óscar Valdez and Jeremiah Nakathila. Known for his high-volume punching and finishing ability, Berchelt has recorded an exceptional knockout ratio in his 42 wins, with the majority of his victories coming by stoppage. A professional since 2010, nicknamed “Alacrán,” he is respected worldwide for his aggressive style and warrior spirit, proudly carrying on the legacy of Mexico’s rich boxing tradition.

About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport. 

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Lennox Lewis, Julio Cesar Chavez, Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Sugar Ray Leonard, Tommy Hearns, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Sugar Shane Mosley, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Claressa Shields, Fernando Vargas, Edgar Berlanga, Oscar Valdez, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Vinny Paz, Juan Francisco Estrada Mia St. John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Chiquita Gonzalez, Badou Jack, Nico Ali Walsh, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs and many more…

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next several weeks, leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite:

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2026

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on X and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

Las Vegas (March 31, 2026) – 2-Time World Champion Marcos Maidana confirmed that he will appear at the Ninth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 2, 2026 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between David Benavidez vs Zurdo Ramirez, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.?
?

Maidana will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend

?
?The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan experience event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs, Canelo vs. GGG III, Canelo vs Munguia and Canelo vs Crawford.

The Box Fan Expo is thrilled to open its doors to boxing fans from all over the world, as well to all major boxing companies, promoters and industry people during this Mexican holiday weekend.

Centered in boxing’s long-time home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. A full day of boxing fan experience awaits you! https://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo 

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2026

Maidana will make his third appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Maidana will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy at his booth. Boxing fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing star also known as “El Chino”

Maidana joins Teofimo Lopez, James Toney, Shane Mosley, Thomas Hearns, Roy Jones Jr., José Luis Castillo, Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

About Marcos Maidana

Marcos Maidana is an Argentine former professional boxer who competed from 2004 to 2014. He is a two-weight world champion, having held the WBA (Regular) super lightweight title from 2011 to 2012, and the WBA welterweight title from 2013 to 2014. An exciting and versatile pressure fighter to watch in the ring, Maidana was well known for his formidable punching power, always delivery incredible performances and was never stopped in any of his 40 professional fights.  Maidana built his legacy through high-profile bouts against boxing’s elite, including Floyd Mayweather Jr., Adrien Broner, Erik Morales, Amir Khan, and Victor Ortiz, just to name a few.

About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport. 

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Lennox Lewis, Julio Cesar Chavez, Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Sugar Ray Leonard, Tommy Hearns, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Sugar Shane Mosley, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Claressa Shields, Fernando Vargas, Edgar Berlanga, Oscar Valdez, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Vinny Paz, Juan Francisco Estrada Mia St. John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Chiquita Gonzalez, Badou Jack, Nico Ali Walsh, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs and many more…

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next several weeks, leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite:

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2026

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on X and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

Las Vegas (February 24, 2026) – Two-division world champion José Luis Castillo has confirmed that he will appear at the Ninth Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday May 2, 2026 at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with the mega fight between David Benavidez vs Zurdo Ramirez, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Castillo will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan experience event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs, Canelo vs. GGG III, Canelo vs Munguia and Canelo vs Crawford.

The Box Fan Expo is thrilled to open its doors to boxing fans from all over the world, as well to all major boxing companies, promoters and industry people during this Mexican holiday weekend.

Centered in boxing’s long-time home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. A full day of boxing fan experience awaits you! https://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo 

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:

Castillo will make his first appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Castillo will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing legend also known as “El Temible”.

Castillo joins Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo, with more Boxing stars to be announced.

About José Luis Castillo

José Luis Castillo is a former two-division world champion. Castillo stands as one of Mexico’s most respected and fearless warriors in modern boxing history. Born in Empalme, Sonora, Castillo built a legendary professional career defined by relentless pressure, devastating body punching, and an indomitable fighting spirit. A two-time WBC Lightweight World Champion and WBC Light Welterweight World Champion, Castillo earned global recognition through unforgettable battles against elite champions including Floyd Mayweather Jr. a fiercely competitive rivalry in which many observers believed Castillo had done enough to win their first encounter. He also delivered an unforgettable 2005 classic against Diego Corrales; a bout widely regarded as one of the greatest fights in boxing history. Castillo further shared the ring with world-class talents such as Stevie Johnston, Joel Casamayor, and Ricky Hatton, underscoring his reputation as one of the most fearless and respected competitors of his generation. With 66 victories, including 57 knockouts, Castillo’s career reflects durability, heart, and championship excellence. Revered by fans and fighters alike, José Luis Castillo remains a proud ambassador of Mexican boxing and a symbol of courage, resilience, and elite-level competition on the world stage.

About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport. 

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Lennox Lewis, Julio Cesar Chavez, Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Sugar Ray Leonard, Tommy Hearns, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Sugar Shane Mosley, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Claressa Shields, Fernando Vargas, Edgar Berlanga, Oscar Valdez, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Vinny Paz, Juan Francisco Estrada Mia St. John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Chiquita Gonzalez, Badou Jack, Nico Ali Walsh, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs and many more…

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few months leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite:

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on X and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

INGLEWOOD, CA (March 28, 2024): Golden Boy Promotions announced today a special partnership deal with Hollywood Park that will commence with the anticipated world championship clash featuring Arsen Goulamirian defending his WBA Championship Title against Zurdo Ramirez on Saturday, March 30, 2024.

The multi-year, multi-event agreement solidifies Golden Boy’s commitment to bring local and international boxing stars and events to the heart of the Los Angeles sports scene and leverages the diverse programming at SoFi Stadium, YouTube Theater, and across Hollywood Park. As Golden Boy continues its expansion plans throughout 2024 and beyond, this will ensure fight fans will have boxing events year-round in the Los Angeles area.

“Golden Boy and Hollywood Park share a vision of bringing the highest quality of events to the Los Angeles region,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya. “We were the first to host an inaugural combat sports event at YouTube Theater in January 2023, and we couldn’t be more pleased to make history again by being the first to solidify a partnership deal of this magnitude with Hollywood Park.”

“We are proud to have a championship partner in our corner with Golden Boy Promotions,” said Adolfo Romero, Vice President, Programming and Booking for YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park. “YouTube Theater is the first Los Angeles venue to ink a multi-year agreement with a boxing promoter showcasing our commitment to this sport, and leveraging our year-round events at SoFi Stadium and across Hollywood Park to continue our diverse programming strategy.”

The partnership was announced at the Goulamirian vs. Zurdo final press conference. The fight night is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Y12 Boxing and will take place at YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood and broadcast live on DAZN.
“I am excited to fight for the first time in the United States, and of all places Los Angeles,” said Arsen Goulamirian. “I know Zurdo wants to be a world champion, but he’s going to have to go through me first, but he will have to face a real cruiserweight. I have been telling my trainer, Abel Sanchez, that I wanted to fight here in the United States for years, and I am glad that I will be able to do this now.”

“I’m ready to become the first Mexican cruiserweight champion. When I made the move to this division, I knew I would have to face Arsen down the line.” said Zurdo Ramirez. “I feel comfortable at this weight class and will look to become the undisputed Champion. I want to thank DAZN, Golden Boy, the WBA, my team and family for all the support and I look forward to seeing everyone on the 30th.”

The cruiserweight clash for the WBA Cruiserweight Super World Championship will feature current champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (27-0, 19 KOs) of Yerevan, Armenia against former World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (45-1, 30 KOs) in a 12-round fight. In the co-main event, Santa Ana’s Alexis “Lex” Rocha (23-2, 15 KOs) will participate in a 10-round welterweight fight against Fredrick “General Okunka” Lawson (30-4, 22 KOs).

Also on the DAZN broadcast, Rialto’s Ricardo Sandoval (23-2, 16 KOs) and Managua Nicaragua’s Carlos Buitrago (38-12-1, 22 KOs) will battle it out in a 10-round flyweight bout. Fort Worth, Texas’ Santiago “Somer” Dominguez (26-0, 20 KOs) will make his U.S. Golden Boy debut against Jose Sanchez (14-3-1, 4 KOs) of Albuquerque, New Mexico in a 10-round welterweight fight. Opening the broadcast, in a four-round welterweight bout, Joel Iriarte (1-0, 1 KO) of Bakersfield, CA will fight against Kevin Aguirre (5-2, 2 KOs) of Guerrero, Mexico.

On the preliminary card, in a 10-round light heavyweight fight, Kareem Hackett (12-0, 6 KOs) of Toronto, Canada will defend his newly-minted WBA Intercontinental Title against Victorville’s Rowdy Montgomery (10-5-1, 7 KOs). Also in the preliminaries, Jonathan “Sugarcane” Cañas (3-0, 2 KOs) will participate in a four-round lightweight fight against Romel Tsanimp (3-2) of Baltimore, Maryland. In a four-round welterweight fight, Deni Davtian of Kharkiv, Ukraine will make their professional debut against Joseph Cole (1-1, 1 KO) of Marrero, Louisiana. Also making his professional debut, Ronaldo Mancilla of Big Bear will fight against Rueben Johnson (0-5) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin in a four-round light heavyweight fight.

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Goulamirian vs. Ramirez is a 12-round fight for the WBA Cruiserweight Super Middleweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight night will take place on Saturday, March 30, live from YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood, CA and will be broadcast on DAZN worldwide.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #GoulamirianZurdo

About YouTube Theater
YouTube Theater is a 6,000-seat performance venue located at Hollywood Park, a near 300-acre sports and entertainment destination in Inglewood Calif., being developed by Los Angeles Rams Owner/Chairman E. Stanley Kroenke. The state-of-the-art theater is a 227,000 square foot, three-story indoor venue situated under the same roof canopy as SoFi Stadium and American Airlines Plaza. The venue can be configured to house three different crowd capacities, including intimate settings with minimum capacities of 3,400 and 4,400. Equipped with premium finishes throughout, the venue ranked among the Top 10 venues in the world for top-grossing concert and live event ticket sales in 2023. Opened in August 2021, YouTube Theater is equipped to host a variety of events, including concerts, awards shows, boxing, esports competitions, community gatherings, conferences and more.

LOS ANGELES (March 25, 2024) –- Elite challenger Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (45-1, 30 KOs) has predicted victory this Saturday night in a war versus undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) Cruiserweight World Champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (21-0, 14 KOs) which will be streamed live on DAZN from YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood, California.

The 12-round Goulamirian vs. Zurdo main event headlines a card promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Y12 Boxing.

“He (Goulamirian) is the Champ for a reason,” Ramirez said. “Arsen is the warrior with Thor-like strength who can also box. He’s going to be a huge challenge, which is why I wanted this fight. I’ve been working on my skills and my strength to overcome Arsen.

“It’s going to be a war. I know he likes to fight on the inside and that’s my specialty as well. I believe the combination of my strength and power will allow me to be victorious.”

The 32-year-old Ramirez was the first Mexican-born boxer to capture a super middleweight world title and now he’s planning to duplicate that feat as a cruiserweight against Goulamirian, the Armenian-born champion who lives in France and trains in Big Bear, California. This will only be Zurdo’s second fight as a cruiserweight having moved up from the light heavyweight division, after he campaigned at 168-pounds for the first 10 years of his professional boxing career.

“I feel comfortable at this weight,” ‘Zurdo’ noted. “Naturally, as I got older, it was tougher to make weight and now everything seems to be easier. Like I always say, there’s no better teacher than experience in this life. I’m not training differently as a cruiserweight. I’m always working on the basics of boxing. Going into a higher division, one of the main things is that I’m able to lift heavy and not worry about gaining muscle mass.”

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INFORMATION:

Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com

Facebook: /ZurdoPromotions, /GilbertoZurdoRamirez

Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions

Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez

ABOUT ZURDO PROMOTIONS: Headquartered in Las Vegas and Mexico, Zurdo Promotions is the premier combat sports/event led by former World Champion, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. Zurdo Promotions strives to be the best in all areas to set the new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.

LOS ANGELES (March 21, 2024) – Toronto’s undefeated World Boxing Association (WBA) Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Champion Kareem “Supreme” Hackett (12-0, 6 KOs) will make his first title defense March 30^th against Rowdy Legend Montgomery (10-5-1, 7 KOs) in a 10-pound match on a Golden Boy Promotions card headlined by the WBA Cruiserweight World title fight between defending champion Arsen Goulimarian and Hackett’s stablemate, former world super middleweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez.

All the action will be streamed live on DAZN from YouTube Theater in Los Angeles.

WBA No. 13 world-rated Hackett captured his crown last September 20^th in Plant City, Florida, when he dominated 4-1 favorite and previously undefeated Clay Waterman (11-0, 8 KOs) en route to a 10-round unanimous decision, in which he won all 10 rounds on two of the judges’’ scorecards and nine on the other judge’s.

“I would have liked to fight sooner but that’s the way this business goes,” Hackett said. “It’s harder to get fights after winning my title than it was. A lot of good has happened since my last fight. I understand. I have a title and I’m world ranked. I have a clearer path towards a world title shot. I appreciate any opportunity to get in the ring.

?“I’m getting more respect since I displayed my skills on ProBox.TV. (Announcers) Juan Manual Marguez, Paulie Malignaggi and Chris Algieri gave me a lot of props and that’s been very validating.”  

Hackett has gained invaluable experience sparring world champions such as “Zurdo” Ramirez, Dmitry Bivol, Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin, Sergio Mora, Mathew Macklin and David Benavidez.

Hackett has already established firsts by a Toronto boxer in terms of fighting on a Golden Boy Promotions card and becoming WBA Inter-Continental Light Heavyweight title holder.

“I’m a trailblazer for Toronto boxing,” promotional free agent Hackett explained with great pride. “I want to bring the first world title home, for sure, and one day the undisputed and unified titles, too, Toronto is a big city with a lot of natural talent, but I don’t know why boxing hasn’t thrived there.”

Hackett is trained by fast-rising Julian Chua at Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood (CA) and managed by 3 Point Management (3 PM).

“(Dmitry) Bivol is at the head of the light heavyweight division, and I know he’s a strong guy,” Hackett noted. “We’ve changed some things since my last fight with the end in mind. We’ve tripled down, strength-wise, for when we run into him. That’s the main change. I feel that I’m the most agile fighter in our division and I’m working on getting stronger to match my skills and ring IQ.”

In 2024, Hackett wants to add hardware and fight a top-10 ranked opponent but, at least for now, he’s happy to be in his fight with Montgomery in his second home, Los Angeles.

“I love that this fight is in LA,” Hackett concluded. “I’m comfortable in Los Angeles. I feel at home here and fighting in other places in California. I’m also excited to be fighting on a card headlined by one of my closest friends in boxing (Zurdo).”

INFORMATION:

Website: www.KareemHackett.com

Instagram, Twitter & Tik Tok: @kareemwins

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LOS ANGELES, CA (March 7, 2024) – WBA Cruiserweight Super World Champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (27-0, 19 KOs) of Yerevan, Armenia and former super middleweight world champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (45-1, 30 KOs) of Mazatlan, Mexico, hosted a press conference today to promote their 12-round cruiserweight clash for Goulamirian’s world title. The event is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Y12 Boxing and will take place at YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood and broadcast live on DAZN.

Here is what today’s participants said:
ARSEN “FEROZ” GOULAMIRIAN, WBA CRUISERWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:
“I am excited to fight for the first time in the U.S. and partner with Abel Sanchez once again. It’s a great opportunity because this division is not very popular in the United States, and we get to draw attention to it. I want to thank Golden Boy for the opportunity. It is going to be a great fight. I am not like Bivol, and I will stop him.”
GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ, FORMER WORLD CHAMPION:
“First of all, I want to thank God for giving me the opportunity. Thank you to Golden Boy and my team for getting me here. It is an honor to be able to be the main event at YouTube Theater, and make a statement and potentially become a legend. This is my motivation. Thank you to team Arsen for taking this fight and giving me opportunity to fight for a title.”
ALEXIS “LEX” ROCHA, WELTERWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“First of all, I want to thank God. I want to thank my entire team; Hector Lopez and Abraham Perez. I want to thank Golden Boy and all of Golden Boy’s staff. Yeah, I know I took a loss my last fight, but I refuse to let that define who I am. I refuse to let that crush my spirit and my dreams. A true warrior doesn’t just avoid losses, but it’s about how they get back and hold their head up and keep moving forward. And to all the young fighters, let your setbacks fuel you. Let your failures be the stepping stone to success. I refuse to lose sight of my dreams. And I urge you all to the same. Thank you.”
RICARDO SANDOVAL, FLYWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“I want to thank Oscar De La Hoya and the Golden Boy team for signing me, and for believing in me and I’m just very excited for the future. I just want to get in the ring again and just throw hands. We’re going for all the belts.”
OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDEN BOY:
“For the last year, Zurdo has put in a ton of work to come back from the sole blemish on his impressive resume. He made history as the first Mexican to become a super middleweight champion, and we expect him to continue to build his legacy as the first Mexican to become a cruiserweight world titlist. He will face the tough, current champion, Arsen Goulamirian, who will be making their U.S. debut. You won’t want to miss this match up.”

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Goulamirian vs. Ramirez is a 12-round fight for the WBA Cruiserweight Super Middleweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight night will take place on Saturday, March 30, live from YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood, CA and will be broadcast on DAZN worldwide.

Media interested in credentials can apply at https://forms.gle/Yz1fqk2kGN3hJh539. Media applications are due EOD Friday March 22, 2024.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #GoulamirianZurdo

About YouTube Theater
YouTube Theater is a 6,000-seat performance venue located at Hollywood Park, a near 300-acre sports and entertainment destination in Inglewood Calif., being developed by Los Angeles Rams Owner/Chairman E. Stanley Kroenke. The state-of-the-art theater is a 227,000 square foot, three-story indoor venue situated under the same roof canopy as SoFi Stadium and American Airlines Plaza. The venue can be configured to house three different crowd capacities, including intimate settings with minimum capacities of 3,400 and 4,400. Equipped with premium finishes throughout, the venue ranked among the Top 10 venues in the world for top-grossing concert and live event ticket sales in 2023. Opened in August 2021, YouTube Theater is equipped to host a variety of events, including concerts, awards shows, boxing, esports competitions, community gatherings, conferences and more.

INGLEWOOD, CA (March 6, 2024): The pride of Santa Ana, Alexis “Lex” Rocha (23-2, 15 KOs) will co-headline the cruiserweight clash between WBA Cruiserweight Super World Champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (27-0, 19 KOs) of Yerevan, Armenia against former World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (45-1, 30 KOs). Rocha will participate in a 10-round welterweight fight against Fredrick “General Okunka” Lawson (30-4, 22 KOs). Rocha will return to YouTube Theater after being the main event last January 2023 for the first-ever boxing event in the venue’s history. The fight night is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Y12 Boxing and will take place at YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood and broadcast live on DAZN.

“First and foremost, I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions, my fans, and my entire team for their constant support,” said Alexis Rocha. “My last fight did not go the way that I expected it to. I let a lot of people down, including myself. This next stage of my career is my revenge tour. This is when I become everything I know I was meant to be in this sport. The pain I feel from my last loss will be the pain every opponent feels moving forward.”

“I would like to personally thank the Golden Boy himself, Oscar De La Hoya, for this great opportunity of redemption,” said Fredrick Lawson. “Also, I would like to thank DAZN, the number 1 outlet in the world, for watching boxing. I know that Alexis is a top fighter, but so am I, and I will prove it to everyone on March 30. My manager Jacob Zwennes is very confident that I will beat Rocha.”

Also on the DAZN broadcast, Rialto’s Ricardo Sandoval (23-2, 16 KOs) and Queretaro, Mexico’s Luis “Zari” Hernandez (13-6-1, 8 KOs) will battle it out in a 10-round flyweight bout. Opening the broadcast, Fort Worth, Texas’ Santiago “Somer” Dominguez (26-0, 20 KOs) will make his U.S. Golden Boy debut against Jose Sanchez (14-3-1, 4 KOs) of Albuquerque, New Mexico in a 10-round welterweight fight. Dominguez was last seen on the undercard of the Yokasta Valle vs. Anabel Ortiz world championship fight in Costa Rica.

On the preliminary card, in a 10-round light heavyweight fight, Kareem Hackett (12-0, 6 KOs) of Toronto, Canada will defend his newly-minted WBA Intercontinental Title against Victorville’s Rowdy Montgomery (10-5-1, 7 KOs). Also in the preliminaries, Jonathan “Sugarcane” Cañas (3-0, 2 KOs) will participate in a four-round lightweight fight. Making his professional debut, Ronaldo Mancilla of Big Bear will participate in a four-round light heavyweight fight. In a four-round welterweight fight, Deni Davtian of Kharkiv, Ukraine will also make their professional debut. Opponents for each will be announced soon.

Tickets for Goulamirian vs. Zurdo are on sale and are priced at $150, $100, $75, $50 and $30 plus applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoy.com.

Media interested in credentials can apply at https://forms.gle/Yz1fqk2kGN3hJh539. Media applications are due EOD Friday March 22, 2024.

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Goulamirian vs. Ramirez is a 12-round fight for the WBA Cruiserweight Super Middleweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight night will take place on Saturday, March 30, live from YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood, CA and will be broadcast on DAZN worldwide.

Media interested in credentials can apply at https://forms.gle/Yz1fqk2kGN3hJh539. Media applications are due EOD Friday March 22, 2024.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #GoulamirianZurdo

About YouTube Theater
YouTube Theater is a 6,000-seat performance venue located at Hollywood Park, a near 300-acre sports and entertainment destination in Inglewood Calif., being developed by Los Angeles Rams Owner/Chairman E. Stanley Kroenke. The state-of-the-art theater is a 227,000 square foot, three-story indoor venue situated under the same roof canopy as SoFi Stadium and American Airlines Plaza. The venue can be configured to house three different crowd capacities, including intimate settings with minimum capacities of 3,400 and 4,400. Equipped with premium finishes throughout, the venue ranked among the Top 10 venues in the world for top-grossing concert and live event ticket sales in 2023. Opened in August 2021, YouTube Theater is equipped to host a variety of events, including concerts, awards shows, boxing, esports competitions, community gatherings, conferences and more.

INGLEWOOD, CA (March 4, 2024): Tickets for the WBA Cruiserweight Super World Championship fight featuring current champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (27-0, 19 KOs) of Yerevan, Armenia who will defend his title against former super middleweight world champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (45-1, 30 KOs) will begin on Tuesday, March 5. The 12-round fight is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Y12 Boxing and will take place at YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood and broadcast live on DAZN. 

Tickets for Goulamirian vs. Zurdo will start at 10:00 a.m. PT and are priced at $150, $100, $75, $50 and $30 plus applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoy.com. 

Media interested in credentials can apply at https://forms.gle/Yz1fqk2kGN3hJh539. Media applications are due EOD Friday March 22, 2024. 

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Goulamirian vs. Ramirez is a 12-round fight for the WBA Cruiserweight Super Middleweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight night will take place on Saturday, March 30, live from YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood, CA and will be broadcast on DAZN worldwide.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #GoulamirianZurdo

About YouTube Theater

YouTube Theater is a 6,000-seat performance venue located at Hollywood Park, a near 300-acre sports and entertainment destination in Inglewood Calif., being developed by Los Angeles Rams Owner/Chairman E. Stanley Kroenke. The state-of-the-art theater is a 227,000 square foot, three-story indoor venue situated under the same roof canopy as SoFi Stadium and American Airlines Plaza. The venue can be configured to house three different crowd capacities, including intimate settings with minimum capacities of 3,400 and 4,400. Equipped with premium finishes throughout, the venue ranked among the Top 10 venues in the world for top-grossing concert and live event ticket sales in 2023. Opened in August 2021, YouTube Theater is equipped to host a variety of events, including concerts, awards shows, boxing, esports competitions, community gatherings, conferences and more.

INGLEWOOD, CA (February 22, 2024): There will be a clash of titans on Saturday, March 30, as WBA Cruiserweight Super World Champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (27-0, 19 KOs) of Yerevan, Armenia makes his U.S. fighting debut to defend his championship hardware against hungry former World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (45-1, 30 KOs). Ramirez will be hoping to break records yet again to become the first Mexican to become a cruiserweight champion. The momentous, 12-round fight is presented in association with Y12 Boxing and will take place at YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood and broadcast live on DAZN.

“I am excited to fight for the first time in the United States, and of all places Los Angeles,” said Arsen Goulamirian. “There are no excuses now. I know Zurdo wants to be a world champion, but he’s going to have to go through me first. I will successfully defend my World Championship belt this March 30!”

“I’m back! And I’m ready to become the first Mexican cruiserweight champion. When I made the move to this division, I had my eyes set on Arsen and I can’t wait to showcase my skills in the ring,” said Zurdo Ramirez. “I feel extremely comfortable at this weight class and will look to become the undisputed champion. I want to thank DAZN, Golden Boy, the WBA, my team and family for all the support and I look forward to seeing everyone on the 30th.”

“There has never been a Mexican world champion in both the Super Middleweight and Cruiserweight divisions, but ‘Zurdo’ has always been special, and I fully expect him to walk away with the WBA belt on March 30,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya. “On the heels of being the first Mexican Super Middleweight, Zurdo can now do the same in the cruiserweight division. With all of this motivation, I would expect a knockout — and a spectacular one.”

“We’re excited to welcome Golden Boy Boxing back to the YouTube Theater for the second time, solidifying our venue as a premier destination for world-class boxing in the heart of Inglewood.” said Adolfo Romero, vice president programming and booking, SoFi Stadium, YouTube Theater and Hollywood Park. “In what promises to be an exciting showdown, Arsen ‘Feroz’ Goulamirian will make his highly anticipated U.S. debut, facing off against Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez in what is sure to be one of YouTube Theater’s most competitive main events to date.”

More information on tickets and the complete undercard will be announced in the coming weeks.

Media interested in credentials can apply at https://forms.gle/Yz1fqk2kGN3hJh539. Media applications are due EOD Friday March 22, 2024.

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Goulamirian vs. Ramirez is a 12-round cruiserweight fight for the WBA Cruiserweight Super Middleweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight night will take place on Saturday, March 30, live from YouTube Theater in Inglewood, CA and will be broadcast on DAZN worldwide.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #RochaYoung

About YouTube Theater

YouTube Theater is a 6,000-seat performance venue located at Hollywood Park, a near 300-acre sports and entertainment destination in Inglewood Calif., being developed by Los Angeles Rams Owner/Chairman E. Stanley Kroenke. The state-of-the-art theater is a 227,000 square foot, three-story indoor venue situated under the same roof canopy as SoFi Stadium and American Airlines Plaza. The venue can be configured to house three different crowd capacities, including intimate settings with minimum capacities of 3,400 and 4,400. Equipped with premium finishes throughout, the venue ranked among the Top 10 venues in the world for top-grossing concert and live event ticket sales in 2023. Opened in August 2021, YouTube Theater is equipped to host a variety of events, including concerts, awards shows, boxing, esports competitions, community gatherings, conferences and more.

MAZATLAN, Mexico (December 5, 2023) –- Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, the first Mexican boxer to capture a world super middleweight title, will promote his first pro boxing show in Mexico this Friday night at Cancha German Evers in his hometown of Mazatlán.

Ramirez’ promotional company, Zurdo Promotions, presents “Zurd01,” a scheduled seven-fight card showcasing a pair of undefeated heavyweights fighting out Houston, Zachary Spiller (4-0, 4 KOs) and Danielle Perkins (3-0, 1 KO), the 2019 World Championships (amateur) gold medalist.

Two Mazatlán fighters are also scheduled to be in action, super lightweights Alfonso Alvarez (2-1 (2 KOs) and Oscar Velez (1-0, 1 KO), as well 23-year-old lightweight Jesus Leon (23-2-2, 19 KOs), from Culiacan.

“I’m happy and grateful to be able to give back to my hometown of Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico and be in a position to promote my first of many events,” Zurdo said. “There is great talent here and I just want to be able to provide a bridge to help young boxers chase their dream to the fullest.

“Standing in the ring, proud of my roots in Mazatlán, I see beyond the punches. This event isn’t just about my fight; it’s about being a bridge. A bridge from this vibrant city to the grand stages of the U.S. I aim to pave the way for future fighters, to showcase their skill, heart, and determination. Join us as we carve a path for the next generation to cross borders and conquer dreams.”

Zurdo Ramirez (45-1, 30 KOs) is the mandatory challenger for World Boxing Association (WBA) Cruiserweight World Champion. He is coming off a 10-round unanimous decision victory over former world lightweight champion Joe Smith, Jr. (28-4) this past October 7^th in their WBA eliminator fight.   

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INFORMATION:

Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com

Facebook: /ZurdoPromotions, /GilbertoZurdoRamirez

Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions

Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez

ABOUT ZURDO PROMOTIONS: Headquartered in Las Vegas and Mexico, Zurdo Promotions is the premier combat sports/event led by former World Champion, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. Zurdo Promotions strives to be the best in all areas to set the new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.

In a battle of former world champion, Gilberto Ramirez won a 10-round unanimous decision over Joe Smith Jr. in a cruiserweight bout at The Cosmopolitan Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

It was an entertaining bout throughout the fight with Ramirez boxing and landing some solid flurries. Ramirez was proficient to body. Smith came on in the middle rounds by landing some hard power shots. Ramirez took the final two rounds to solidify the fight.

Ramirez landed 169 of 415 punches. Smith was 119 of 419.

Ramirez, 191.6 lbs of Mazatlan, MEX won by wider that it looked margins of 99-91 on all cards is 45-1. Smith, 191.8 lbs of Long Island, NY is 28-5.

“This is a new beginning for me,” said Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. “I came back stronger, faster and I came forward. I was a lot smarter in the ring. I think it was a great performance for me. I don’t have anything to say except thank you, Joe Smith, I think he’s a great fighter and tough opponent. I wish him all the best. We had to take care of business in the ring. I felt like I was ahead on the cards. I never took any chances because he has heavy hands and brings a lot of heat to the ring.”

Melikuziev Stops Alantez Fox in 4

Bektemir Melikuziev stopped Alnatez Fox in round four of a scheduled 10-round super middleweight bout.

In round three, Melikuziev was bleeding over his left eye. In round four, Melikuziev dropped Fox with a hard body shot that followed by a left to the head. Melikuziev finished off the fight after a big flurry from Melikuziev and the fight was waved off at 2:44.

Melikuziev, 167.6 lbs of Shoimbek, UZB is 13-1 with 10 knockouts. Fox, 167.2 lbs of Upper Marlboro, MD is 28-5-1.

“I learned my lesson [on avenging the loss against Gabriel Rosado],” said Bektemir Melikuziev. “This was the most awkward fighter at 168 I’ve fought. I want to fight everyone at 168. If you don’t want to fight, get out of the way!”

Darius Fulghum Stops Campa in 1

Darius Fulghum remained perfect by stopping Alan Campa in the opening round of their eight-round light heavyweight bout.

In the opening frame, Fulghum landed a perfect left to the Solar Plexus that put Campa down for the 10-count at 2:58.

Fulghum, 170.2 lbs of Houston is 8-0 with eight knockouts. Campa, 168.8 lbs of Guaymas, MEX is 18-9.

“Statement made,” said Darius Fulghum. “I’m Golden Boy’s next superstar.”

Jose Sanchez Upsets Eric Tudor

Jose Sanchez won an eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Eric Tudor in a super welterweight fight.

Tudor landed 93 of 290 punches. Sanchez was 131 of 508.

Sanchez, 153.8 lbs of Albuquerque, NM won by scores of 78-74 and 77-75 twice and is now 14-3-1. Tudor, 153.4 lbs of Fort Lauderdale, FL is 9-1.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (October 5, 2023) – Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (44-1, 30 KOs) of Mazatlán, Mexico and Joe “Common Man” Smith Jr. (28-4, 22 KOs) of Long Island, New York hosted a press conference today ahead of their WBA Cruiserweight Eliminator match. Scheduled for 10-rounds, the fight night, presented in collaboration with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, will take place live from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and live around the world on DAZN beginning at 5:00 p.m. PT.

The undercard of Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. was also on hand to promote their upcoming fights. As co-main event, Bektemir “The Bully” Melikuziev (12-1, 9 KOs) of Shoimbek, Uzbekistan, who also proudly represents Indio, California, will face Upper Marlboro, Maryland’s Alantez “SlyAza” Fox (28-4-1, 13 KOs). “The Bully” will defend his WBA Intercontinental Super Middleweight Title in a 10-round fight. Darius “DFG” Fulghum (7-0, 7 KOs) will fight Alan Campa (18-8, 12 KOs) of Guaymas, Mexico in an eight-round light heavyweight bout. Opening the broadcast, Fort Lauderdale’s Eric Tudor (9-0, 6 KOs) will participate in an eight-round super welterweight fight against Jose Sanchez (13-3-1, 4 KOs) of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

On the preliminary undercard Tristan “Sweet T” Kalkreuth (11-1, 8 KOs) of Carlton, Texas will face Aaron “Ghozt Mas” Casper (7-4-2, 5 KOs) of Augusta, Georgia in an eight-round cruiserweight fight. Daniel “Ikaika” Luna (3-0, 3 KOs) will hope to repeat history with a four-round super lightweight fight against Erick Benitez (4-5, 1 KO) of Guadalajara, Mexico.

Also part of the preliminaries, in an eight-round junior middleweight fight is Star Boxing’s Jahyae “Golden Child Brown (13-1 9KO’s), who will face off against Youngstown, Ohio’s Victor Toney (7-2-1 6KO’s). Also on the undercard is Star Boxing’s undefeated, New Jersey prospect, Rajon “Picasso” Chance (8-0-1 6KO’s), who will measure up in an eight-round featherweight fight against Orlando Perez Zapata (13-0 9KO’s) of Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic.

Here’s what some of today’s participants had to say:
GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ, FORMER WORLD CHAMPION:
“Thank you everyone for being here. I want to thank God for this. I am blessed to be here. Thank you Golden Boy, and Joe Smith for taking the fight. The first time I fought in Las Vegas was at the Cosmopolitan and I want to repeat what happened last time and have my hand lifted in the air in victory.”
JOE SMITH JR., FORMER WORLD CHAMPION:
“Like I said, I’m glad to be back. I’d like to thank Golden Boy Promotions and Star Boxing for this opportunity. Looking forward to this Saturday. Thank you Zurdo for this opportunity. This weekend, I’m looking to make another statement.”
BEKTEMIR MELIKUZIEV, WBA INTERCONTINENTAL SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLEHOLDER:
“I am super happy to be back on a great card against a very good opponent. I want to thank my promoter, Golden Boy, and my team for making this happen. One thing I can promise you for sure is that you won’t want to miss this fight.”
ALANTEZ FOX, SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT FIGHTER:
“First and foremost I want to thank God for blessing me. I want to thank my fans watching from home. I also want to thank Golden Boy Promotions for this opportunity. I can’t wait for Saturday, this is my season.”
OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDEN BOY:
“Welcome to my new home here in Las Vegas! I’m very excited to be showcasing this amazing card and this is what I’m talking about when working with other promoters.”

“When you have a former world champion — the first 168-pound Mexican champion of the world and you have Joe Smith Jr., the common man who comes to fight and is a legend killer fighting the likes of Bernard Hopkins and more — this has the makings of a great fight.”

“From top to bottom we have an amazing fight card. We’re showcasing the young talents and the must-watch prospects.”
BERNARD HOPKINS, PARTNER OF GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS:
“We’re closing out 2023 and entering 2024 on a high. We have these two, credible fighters ready to put on a show for everyone.”
JOE DE GUARDIA, FOUNDER AND CEO OF STAR BOXING:
“It’s certainly special to be here for a fight like this because these are both two guys that really have to put everything on the line. Two former World Champions fighting each other, and both of them are stepping up taking this real challenge.”

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Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. is a 10-round cruiserweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

Tickets for Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. are priced at $200, $150, $100 and $50 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.StarBoxing.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy, www.facebook.com/StarBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #ZurdoSmith

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (October 4, 2023) – Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (44-1, 30 KOs) of Mazatlán, Mexico and Joe “Common Man” Smith Jr. (28-4, 22 KOs) of Long Island, New York will now be fighting in a WBA Cruiserweight Eliminator match, the winner immediately in line for a world championship. Scheduled for 12-rounds, the fight night, presented in collaboration with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, will take place live from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and live around the world on DAZN beginning at 5:00 p.m. PT.

In a new co-main event, Bektemir “The Bully” Melikuziev (12-1, 9 KOs) of Shoimbek, Uzbekistan, who also proudly represents Indio, California, will face Upper Marlboro, Maryland’s Alantez “SlyAza” Fox (28-4-1, 13 KOs). “The Bully” will defend his WBA Intercontinental Super Middleweight Title in a 10-round fight.

Newly added to the DAZN card, Darius “DFG” Fulghum (7-0, 7 KOs) will fight Alan Campa (18-8, 12 KOs) of Guaymas, Mexico in an eight-round light heavyweight bout. Fulghum has been on an unstoppable knockout streak and will be returning to the ring less than one month after his stoppage victory on September 16. Opening the broadcast, Fort Lauderdale’s Eric Tudor (9-0, 6 KOs) will participate in an eight-round super welterweight fight against Jose Sanchez (13-3-1, 4 KOs) of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

On the preliminary undercard Tristan “Sweet T” Kalkreuth (11-1, 8 KOs) of Carolton, Texas will face Aaron “Ghozt Mas” Casper (7-4-2, 5 KOs) of Augusta, Georgia in an eight-round cruiserweight fight. Also making a quick return after an explosive, second round knockout on September 7, recently signed Daniel “Ikaika” Luna (3-0, 3 KOs) will hope to repeat history with a four-round super lightweight fight against Erick Benitez (4-5, 1 KO) of Guadalajara, Mexico.

Also part of the preliminaries, in an eight-round junior middleweight fight is Star Boxing’s Jahyae “Golden Child Brown (13-1 9KO’s), who will face off against Youngstown, Ohio’s Victor Toney (7-2-1 6KO’s). Also on the undercard is Star Boxing’s undefeated, New Jersey prospect, Rajon “Picasso” Chance (8-0-1 6KO’s), who will measure up in an eight-round featherweight fight against Orlando Perez Zapata (13-0 9KO’s) of Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic.

Previously announced, John “Scrappy” Ramirez (12-0, 8 KOs) versus Panama City, Panama’s Ronal Batista (15-3, 9 KOs) in a WBA Super Flyweight Final Eliminator fight will now take place on the Rocha vs. Santillan card on Saturday, October 21.

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Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. is a 12-round cruiserweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

Tickets for Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. are priced at $200, $150, $100 and $50 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.StarBoxing.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy, www.facebook.com/StarBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #ZurdoSmith

LAS VEGAS (October 2, 2023) –- Back in March, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez came in overweight for the first time during his long career for his scheduled fight with Gabe Rosado, which resulted in the bout being canceled, as well as the former world super middleweight champion’s reputation taking a tough hit.

Ramirez (44-1, 30 KOs) plans to prove himself against Joe “The Common Man” Smith, Jr. (28-4, 22 KOs), the former Light Heavyweight World Champion, this Saturday night in the 12-round main event on a card presented by Golden Boy Promotions, to be streamed live on DAZN from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas.

“The cancellation of the Rosado fight was definitely a disappointing and challenging moment in my career,” Ramirez admitted. “It was the first time I missed weight and I take full responsibility for it. I understand that it had an impact on both the fight itself and my reputation. I want to sincerely apologize to my fans, my team, and everyone who was looking forward to the fight.

“I’m aware that setbacks like this can have an impact but I believe that how I respond to adversity is what truly matters. I’m determined to show through my actions and performances that I’m dedicated to my career and to rectify my past mistakes. I’m focusing on the present and future, and I’m looking forward to proving myself in upcoming fights and regaining the trust of those who support me.”

Ramirez and Smith will both be moving up to the cruiserweight division for the first time, although their fight will be contested at 190-pounds. In some respects, Zurdo vs. Smith is an elite crossroads fight in terms of the winner becoming a legitimate world cruiserweight contender, the loser more of a name “opponent”.

“Zurdo” completely understands that saying he’s learned from the aforementioned Rosado fight cancellation simply isn’t enough going into the fight with Smith.

“I take full responsibility for not making weight and for any disappointment it caused,” he said. “Moving forward, I’m making several changes to ensure that such a situation doesn’t happen again, Moreover, the experience has motivated me to redouble my efforts in every aspect of my training camp. From my conditioning and skill development to my mental preparedness, I’m leaving no stone unturned, I’m determined to prove that I’ve learned from my mistakes and that I’m fully committed to my career and the expectations that come with it.

“Ultimately, I understand that actions speak louder than words, and I’m dedicated to showing through my performance that I’ve taken the necessary steps to rectify the situation and come back stronger and more focused than ever.”

Interestingly enough, “Zurdo” and Smith have fought four common opponents. Both lost 12-round decisions to World Boxing Association (WBA) Super World Light Heavyweight Champion Sergey Bivol, both took decisions from Maxim Vlasov and  Jesse Hart (Ramirez did so twice). The only difference was in Ramirez’ favor because “Zurdo” knocked out Sullivan Barrera and Smith lost a decision to Sullivan.

Does this common opponent comparison give Ramirez an advantage going into the Smith fight?

“No,” he quickly answered. Every fight is different, and I don’t ever compare any fight in that manner. Joe is a world champion who I know on fight night will come with everything he has to become victorious.”     

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INFORMATION:

Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com

Facebook: /ZurdoPromotions, /GilbertoZurdoRamirez

Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions

Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez

ABOUT ZURDO PROMOTIONS: Headquartered in Las Vegas and Mexico, Zurdo Promotions is the premier combat sports/event led by former World Champion, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. Zurdo Promotions strives to be the best in all areas to set the new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.

Las Vegas, NV (October 2, 2023) — On Saturday night live from the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, Nevada Golden Boy Promotions, and Joe DeGuardia‘s Star Boxing present a WBA title eliminator between two former world champions in Mexico’s Gilberto “Zurdo“ Ramirez (44-1 30KO’s) and Long Island’s Joe “Common Man” Smith Jr. (28-4 22KO’s).

The highly anticipated main event will be aired live on DAZN, as both former champions will go to battle for the first time as cruisweights in a very significant bout.

Also featured on the undercard are two of boxing rising prospects. Undefeated New Jersey, native Rajon “Picasso“ Chance (8-0-1 6KO’s) will scrap with undefeated Dominican Republic super featherweight, Orlando Zapata (13-0 9KO’s), in an 8-round bout.

Also, Schenectady (13-1 9KO’s), New York’s own Jahyae “Golden Child” Brown will take on Youngstown, Ohio, Victor Toney (7-2 6KO’s) in an 8-round Super welterweight bout.

Zurdo-Smith is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. is a 12-round cruiserweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.StarBoxing.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy, www.facebook.com/StarBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #ZurdoSmith.

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CONTACTS:

LOS ANGELES, CA (September 21, 2023): Former World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (44-1, 30 KOs) hosted a media workout at Brickhouse Boxing Club ahead of his grand debut in the cruiserweight division against former light heavyweight World Champion Joe “Common Man” Smith Jr. (28-4, 22 KOs) of Long Island, New York on Saturday, October 7. The clash is presented in association with Star Boxing, will take place live from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and live around the world on DAZN.

A number of undercard fighters of the Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. event also participated in the workout to promote their upcoming matches. Recently signed to Golden Boy, John “Scrappy” Ramirez (12-0, 8 KOs) will co-headline with a 12-round, WBA Super Flyweight Final Eliminator fight against Panama City, Panama’s Ronal Batista (15-3, 9 KOs). Bektemir “The Bully” Melikuziev (12-1, 9 KOs) of Shoimbek, Uzbekistan, who also proudly represents Indio, will face Upper Marlboro, Maryland’s Alantez “SlyAza” Fox (28-4-1, 13 KOs). Daniel “Ikaika” Luna (3-0, 3 KOs) will participate in a four-round super lightweight fight against Guadalajara, Mexico’s Erick Benitez (4-5, 1 KO).

Here is what today’s participants had to say:
GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ, FORMER WORLD CHAMPION:
“I am excited for me an my team to return on October 7 in Las Vegas. I am most excited for myself because some of the best shows happen in Vegas.”

“I feel great at cruiserweight, this is typically the weight I’ve walked around my entire life. I feel much stronger in this class and most importantly I feel healthy.”

“Dealing with the Bivol loss was really tough. It hurt my soul and it hurt my ego as a warrior. Now that I have been able to move past it, I want to come back even stronger and I want to win. I want to feel like I can do it.”

“I’ve been watching Joe Smith Jr. for many years now; probably his whole career. He is a great fighter and it’s exciting for me to face him because he is a former world champion, he has faced many former champions and great top opponents.”

JOHN “SCRAPPY” RAMIREZ, SUPER FLYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE CONTENDER:
“This final eliminator is just another fight, something that I have been working for and it has finally came into fruition. It’s all about staying ready so you don’t need to get ready.”

“My path to a world championship is fight to fight, opponent to opponent. Right now, my focus is the man in front of me. He is Panamanian, has tremendous experience, he is hungry, and he is looking for that opportunity to make a statement. So I am not taking him lightly. When the competition is good, I perform better.”

BEKTEMIR “THE BULLY” MELIKUZIEV, SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT FIGHTER:
“I feel good after my great win against Gabriel Rosado. I am excited to finally be back. We’re ready for all the big fights in the division. Gabe was a very principal fight for me. I am now in my hunting mode for the world titles.”

“My team have done their homework on my opponent. It doesn’t matter to me who I fight. I know he is very tall for our weight class, he is very awkward, tough, and always in good fights. I am not looking past my opponent, it’s going to be a very interesting fight.

DANIEL “IKAIKA” LUNA, SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT PROSPECT:
“We had a really quick night last month with my second-round knockout, so I just thought why not? My team and I talked about it, and we felt that I was all ready, in-shape, and prepared to come back this month. We just want to stay busy.”

“We don’t focus on the knockouts, we focus on staying busy. If the knockout comes, it comes. I know my opponent is pretty tough and comes to fight, but so do I.”

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Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. is a 12-round cruiserweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

Media interested in covering the fight can apply for a credential at: https://www.emccredentials.com/10-07-23. Applications are due EOD, October 2, 2023.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.StarBoxing.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy, www.facebook.com/StarBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #ZurdoSmith

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (September 15, 2023) – The always entertaining John “Scrappy” Ramirez (12-0, 8 KOs) will co-headline the Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. card with a 10-round, WBA Super Flyweight Final Eliminator fight against Panama City, Panama’s Ronal Batista (15-3, 9 KOs). The winner of the scrap will move on to fight for a world title. The highly anticipated fight night is presented in collaboration with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, will take place live from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and live around the world on DAZN beginning at 5:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets for Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. are priced at $200, $150, $100 and $50 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com. 

Bektemir “The Bully” Melikuziev (12-1, 9 KOs) of Shoimbek, Uzbekistan, who also proudly represents Indio, California, will face Upper Marlboro, Maryland’s Alantez “SlyAza” Fox (28-4-1, 13 KOs). “The Bully” is returning after a successful rematch against boxing veteran Gabriel Rosado in April 2023 that saw him become the WBA Intercontinental Super Middleweight Titleholder which he will defend on October 7. Opening the DAZN broadcast, Tristan “Sweet T” Kalkreuth (11-1, 8 KOs) of Carolton, Texas will face a soon-to-be-announced opponent in a six-round cruiserweight fight. Kalkreuth’s last fight in July left fan’s jaws on the floor after a vicious knockout and a backflip to celebrate. 

On the preliminary undercard Golden Boy’s favorites are scheduled to return against soon-to-be announced opponents. Fort Lauderdale’s Eric Tudor (9-0, 6 KOs) will participate in an eight-round super welterweight fight. After an explosive, second round knockout on September 7, recently signed Daniel “Ikaika” Luna (3-0, 3 KOs) will hope to repeat history with a four-round super lightweight fight.

Also part of the preliminaries, in an eight-round junior middleweight fight is Star Boxing’s Jahyae “Golden Child” Brown (13-1 9KO’s), who will face off against Youngstown, Ohio’s Victor Toney (7-2-1 6KO’s). Also on the undercard is Star Boxing’s undefeated, New Jersey prospect, Rajon “Picasso” Chance (8-0-1 6KO’s), who will measure up in an eight-round featherweight fight against Orlando Perez Zapata (13-0 9KO’s) of Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic.

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Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. is a 12-round cruiserweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

Media interested in covering the fight can apply for a credential at: https://www.emccredentials.com/10-07-23. Applications are due EOD, October 2, 2023.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.StarBoxing.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy, www.facebook.com/StarBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #ZurdoSmith

LAS VEGAS (September 12, 2023) –- When former world super middleweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (44-1, 30 KOs) takes on former Light Heavyweight World Champion Joe “The Common Man” Smith, Jr. (28-4, 22 KOs) on October 7^th, it’ll be 7 ½ years since Ramirez last fought in the modern-day Mecca of Boxing, Las Vegas.

Zurdo vs. Smith will headline the Golden Boy Promotions event to be streamed live on DAZN from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan. Both veteran fighters will be making their cruiserweight debuts, albeit  fighting at a 190-pound catchweight.

“Zurdo” last fought in Las Vegas on April 9, 2016, when he became the first Mexico native to capture a world super middleweight title, dominating a 12-round unanimous by winning each round on all three judges’ scorecards for a shutout, to defeat defending World Boxing Organization (WBO) World Champion Arthur Abraham (44-4) at MGM Grand. Ramirez is 3-0 (1 KO) in Las Vegas, while Smith is 1-0 in Las Vegas having stopped the then former WBO Light Heavyweight World Champion.

“Fighting in Las Vegas is an incredible experience,” Ramirez said. “It’s often referred to as the Mecca of Boxing for a good reason. The city has a rich history in the sport, hosting some of the most iconic and legendary boxing matches. The atmosphere, the energy, and the sheer excitement of fighting in such a renowned location are truly unparalleled. Personally, I enjoy fighting in Las Vegas not just because of its historical significance, but also because of the passionate fan base and overall boxing culture that the city embodies. The lights, venues and the whole ambiance creates a unique and electrifying environment that fuels my motivation and determination. While every fight location has its own charm, Las Vegas has a special place for any boxer. It’s a place for any boxer. It’s a place where dreams are made and legacies are forged, and I’m honored to be part of a tradition every time I step into the ring there.”

“Zurdo” is coming off of his first pro loss as he prepares to fight Smith. Ramirez lost a 12-round decision to World Boxing Association (WBA) Light Heavyweight World Champion Dmitri Bivol (21-0) last November in Abu Dhabi. His training camp at Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood (CA) does have a different look.

“Win or lose, Ramirez explained, “I’m always looking to improve. While the loss was disappointing, it provided me with invaluable insights. Physically, I’m pushing myself even harder in training to ensure I’m in the best shape possible. I’m always focusing on refining my techniques and working on any weaknesses that were exposed in my previous fight. Mentally, the loss has ignited a new level of determination in me. It reminded me that setbacks are a part of the journey, and they only make us stronger. Overall, this loss is a unique opportunity for growth and transformation into the new division. I’m learning from my mistakes and adapting my strategy accordingly. I’m excited to showcase the improvements I’ve made and to prove that setbacks don’t define me – they motivate me to rise above and come back stronger than ever.

“The loss in my most recent fight was undoubtedly a significant learning experience for me. It provided valuable insights that I’m determined to use to become an even better fighter. Overall, the loss has reignited my motivation and commitment to improvement. I’m dedicated to refining my skills, broadening my fight IQ, and ensuring that I step into the ring as the best version of myself. While setbacks are rough, they are also opportunities for growth, and I’m embracing that philosophy as I continue my journey in the sport.”

Next stop, Las Vegas Boulevard…..the same city in which “Zurdo” first became world champion.

INFORMATION:

Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com

Facebook: /ZurdoPromotions, /GilbertoZurdoRamirez

Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions

Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez

ABOUT ZURDO PROMOTIONS: Headquartered in Las Vegas and Mexico, Zurdo Promotions is the premier combat sports/event led by former World Champion, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. Zurdo Promotions strives to be the best in all areas to set the new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.

LAS VEGAS (August 31, 2023) –- At the age of 32 and coupled with 14 years as a professional boxer, natural growth has forced former world super middleweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (44-1, 30 KOs) to move up in weight to the cruiserweight division from light heavyweight.

“Zurdo” will make his cruiserweight debut on October 7^th versus former world light heavyweight champion Joe “The Common Man” Smith, Jr. (28-4, 22 KOs) at a 190-pound catchweight, headlining a Golden Boy Promotions event to be streamed live on DAZN from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

Ramirez, fighting out of Mazatlán, Mexico, has simply outgrown the 175-pound weight class. In several of his most recent fights, “Zurdo” has entered the ring nearing just shy of 200-pounds, despite officially making weight the day before.

“This fight marks my move up to the cruiserweight division,” Ramirez explained. “This decision is based on a combination of factors that my team and I carefully considered. One of the main reasons is my natural growth and development as an athlete. As I’ve progressed during my career, I’ve gained muscle mass and strength, making it more suitable for me to compete in the cruiserweight division.

“Additionally, we believe that this move will provide exciting new challenges and opportunities for me. The cruiserweight division is known for its competitive and diverse talent pool, and I’m eager to test my skills against opponents with different styles and strengths. This transition also aligns with my long-term goals in the sport, and I’m confident that I’ll be able to make a positive impact in this new weight class. I’ve worked closely with my coaches and trainers to ensure a smooth transition in terms of training, strategy, and overall preparation. While it is a new chapter in my career, I’m embracing the change and looking forward to proving myself at cruiserweight.”

Ramirez hasn’t fought since his unsuccessful challenge last November against World Boxing Association (WBA) Light Heavyweight Champion Dmitriy Bivol (20-0), dropping a 12-round unanimous decision in Abu Dhabi. “Zurdo” was scheduled to fight March 18^th as a light heavyweight versus Gabe Rosado, but their fight was canceled when Ramirez came in overweight.

Rather than take a tune-up fight in his new weight class, “Zurdo” will take on Smith, who has defeated Bernard Hopkins, Andrzej Fonfara and Eleider Alvarez, among the more notables. The dangerous New Yorker from Long Island has stopped 22 of the 28 opponents he has defeated to date.

“I have nothing but respect for Joe,” Ramirez said. “He is a hard hitter and former world champion. But when I made this move to cruiserweight, I specifically asked my promoter for the toughest guys in the division to create a path to a world title fight. I’m a fighter and there has never been a fight I’ve dodged or turned down in my career and this is no different.

“Of course, any fight at this level will definitely shape the future and the next possible steps. I know how hard the stakes are and I want to prove to myself that I can be a world champion in this division.”

Ramirez was still highly rated as a light heavyweight when he announced his decision to campaign as a cruiserweight: The Ring #4, WBO #6, and WBA #7.  

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INFORMATION:

Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com

Facebook: /ZurdoPromotions, /GilbertoZurdoRamirez

Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions

Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez

ABOUT ZURDO PROMOTIONS: Headquartered in Las Vegas and Mexico, Zurdo Promotions is the premier combat sports/event led by former World Champion, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. Zurdo Promotions strives to be the best in all areas to set the new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.