OTX and Top Rank Announce Groundbreaking Co-Promotional Deal with First-Time Professional Fighter Julius “JuJu” Ballo

BROOKLYN, N.Y., and LAS VEGAS (Jan. 14, 2025) — OTX, Overtime Boxing, and Top Rank announced today that they will co-promote Team USA amateur standout Julius “JuJu” Ballo. It’s the first co-promotional pact between the leading promoters, who will collaborate in guiding Ballo’s in-ring development and burgeoning social media profile.

The San Diego-born Ballo, who is managed by James Prince, will turn pro as a featherweight and debut on a to-be-announced OTX card.

“As OTX continues to grow, we’re looking to work with fighters who not only know how to fight in the ring but who can also captivate their audiences out of the ring on social media,” said OTX GM Brandon Rhodes. “Partnering with Top Rank on this co-promotion was a seamless decision as they bring their legacy and expertise to the table, while we bring our digital-first prowess and younger audience.”

“Julius Ballo is the entire package, a sensational young fighter with the ability and personality to be a superstar in the sport,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “Top Rank is thrilled to be working with OTX, a forward-thinking brand that excels in connecting with a younger demographic.” 

“OTX has built a platform for the next generation of boxing fans. Combining that with Top Rank’s prestige, I knew this was the perfect team to help launch my professional career,” Ballo said. “I represent a new school of fighters looking to revamp the sport, and I’m looking forward to building my way to the top.” 

Ballo enters the paid ranks following a storied amateur run culminating in May’s gold medal at the National Golden Gloves. He won the USA National Championships in 2022 and 2021 and captured gold at the 2021 Junior Pan American Games in Cali, Colombia. Ballo holds amateur victories over many notable names, including Top Rank stablemate Steven Navarro, 2024 U.S. Olympian Jahmal Harvey, and undefeated puncher Jhon Orobio. 

For more information, please visit otboxing.com and toprank.com.  

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About OTX

OTX (Overtime Boxing) is about that action, delivering future world champions a platform unlike any other available to them. OTX has quickly established itself as a powerhouse in the boxing world both in and out of the ring, maneuvering three fighters into title contention, revolutionizing the rules of a century-old sport, and bringing boxing viewership to social media like never before. Proving Ground has elevated grassroots boxing talent, giving emerging boxers the visibility and opportunities they need to progress in their careers. Amassing 5 billion views across all distribution platforms, with 340 million social engagements, OTX has become the fastest-growing sports media account on social media. The future of boxing is here and it’s OTX. Follow Overtime Boxing on social media: Instagram, YouTube and TikTok. 

About Top Rank 

Innovation has been the standard at Top Rank since it was established in 1973 by Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum. The boxing industry’s leading promotional company, Top Rank has shaped, developed, and promoted the careers of top international pay-per-view superstars and Hall of Famers, including Muhammad Ali, Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Thomas Hearns, Roberto Duran, George Foreman, Sugar Ray Leonard, Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Vasiliy Lomachenko and Tyson Fury. For more information, visit toprank.com.