PALO ALTO, CA (December 13, 2025) – Undefeated middleweight prospect and Stanford University graduate, Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (7-0, 3 KOs), delivered another commanding performance this past Thursday night, scoring a unanimous decision victory over the tough and durable DePriest Johnson at The Hangar as part of Roy Englebrecht’s acclaimed Fight Club OC series. The judges scored the 6-round bout cleanly 60-53 across the board in Kirkman’s favor, marking his seventh straight professional win and solidifying his growing reputation as one of boxing’s most promising young prospects.

From the opening bell, Kirkman showcased a polished blend of technical precision, athletic dominance, and ring IQ, dictating the pace of the fight with sharp jabs, intelligent movement, and relentless body work. Johnson, known for his grit and durability, struggled to keep up with the 24-year-old’s tempo as Kirkman pressed forward with confidence and control.

In the sixth and final round, Kirkman sealed his dominant performance by dropping Johnson with a relentless barrage of punishing body shots, followed by a vicious flurry of punches to the head, igniting a roar from the crowd at The Hangar. Johnson beat the count and survived the round, but the damage had been done. It was the exclamation mark on a night that belonged entirely to “The Inferno.”

“This was exactly the kind of performance I wanted to deliver,” said Kirkman on scoring a unanimous win with an electrifying performance. “I’ve worked hard to not just win, but to excite and leave no doubt. From the moment the first bell rang, I knew I could take control. I wanted to show people that I’m not just another undefeated fighter padding a record — I’m here to make a real statement.”

“Finishing the year 7-0 feels great, especially with the momentum we’ve built,” he added on closing out 2025 undefeated and staying busy. “I’ve stayed active, stayed in the gym, and that’s been the key. I’m excited about my growing fan base in Los Angeles, and this was exactly the kind of performance I wanted to deliver for them. I believe these formative years are where the habits are made. Every fight, every round, every sparring session — it all adds up.”

On what this win did for his career and how he wants to continue the momentum into 2026 Kirkman stated, “Beating a guy like Johnson, tough, experienced, and ring savvy, adds another layer to my development. Each win is a building block, and this one reinforced that I can break opponents down systematically. Going into 2026, I want to elevate. Step up the competition, get on more televised cards, and keep refining my craft. This isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the journey and evolving into the best version of myself inside and outside the ring.”

On when he wants to return to the ring Kirkman concluded saying, “Ideally, I’d like to be back in the first quarter of 2026, late February or early March would be perfect. My body feels good, I’m healthy, and my mind is sharp. The team and I will sit down, review the options, and plot out the next steps. But believe me, the fire is burning hotter than ever.”

Kirkman, who earned his nickname “The Inferno” for both his cerebral intensity and scorching body attacks, continues to turn heads not just for his physical gifts, but for his poise and discipline outside the ring. With a degree from Stanford and a mind wired for strategy, Kirkman is proving to be the kind of athlete who can lead boxing into its next era. As 2026 approaches, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see what’s next for this rising star. One thing is certain — Dante Kirkman has arrived, and he’s just getting started.

COSTA MESA, CA (October 24, 2025) – Middleweight prospect Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (6-0, 3 KOs) continued his rapid rise through the ranks last night with a dominant second-round stoppage of hard-hitting opponent Wesley Vanderlinden (4-2-1, 4 KOs) in a scheduled six-round co-main event bout at The Hangar in Costa Mesa, California. The fight was part of Roy Englebrecht’s iconic Fight Club OC series, a proving ground for boxing’s top young talent.

The opening round saw Kirkman take a measured approach, using movement and timing to feel out his opponent. The Stanford University grad’s timing and power were on full display. Midway through the round, he landed a sharp body shot that visibly hurt Vanderlinden, who managed to survive the round despite showing signs of trouble. In Round 2, Kirkman turned up the pressure. After calmly walking Vanderlinden down, he seized the perfect opening, capitalizing on a lazy jab with a devastating counter right hand that rocked his opponent. With Vanderlinden staggering, Kirkman closed the show with a relentless flurry, forcing the referee to step in and wave it off.

The fight marked Kirkman’s first appearance in Southern California, a boxing hotbed known for its deep talent pool and loyal fight fan base. “Fighting in Southern California for the first time was special,” said Kirkman. “The energy from the crowd was electric, and it pushed me to another level. This was one of those nights where everything came together — preparation, focus, execution. I wanted to leave a strong impression on the fans, and I think I did exactly that.

With six straight wins, three by knockout, Kirkman is gaining momentum as one of the most intriguing young fighters in the middleweight division. The 24-year-old prospect sees this victory as a key stepping stone in his development. “Vanderlinden came in with power, but I wasn’t going to let him get comfortable. I controlled the pace and showed what I’m capable of. This win shows I’m evolving. I’m more than just power — I’m learning how to break guys down and finish them when the time’s right,” Kirkman said. “I’m ready for tougher tests. I want to stay active, keep climbing, and get myself into the conversation for bigger fights by next year.”

Kirkman’s polished performance and poise under the lights signal a fighter who’s not just undefeated, but one with a clear vision and hunger for more. The Northern California prospect is looking to fight one more time by the end of the year.

“I’m hoping to get one more fight in 2025,” concluded Kirkman. “I have a great team behind me, and I believe my future is bright. All the hard work is paying off and it’s show in my performances.”

COSTA MESA, CA (October 9, 2025) – Undefeated middleweight prospect, Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (5-0, 2 KOs), will step into the ring for his Southern California debut on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at The Hangar in Costa Mesa as part of Roy Englebrecht’s long-running Fight Club OC series. Kirkman, a proud graduate of Stanford University, will face heavy-handed Simi Valley native Wesley Vanderlinden (4-1-1, 4 KOs) in a scheduled 6-round bout that marks the toughest test of his young career.

Kirkman, known for his technical precision, high ring IQ, and calm-under-fire demeanor, enters this fight riding a wave of momentum. With Vanderlinden bringing a 100% knockout ratio in his four wins, the matchup is a classic clash of styles…refined skill versus raw power, and one that is expected to deliver fireworks to the passionate Southern California boxing crowd.

While this will be Kirkman’s first appearance in Southern California, he’s no stranger to high-pressure environments, balancing world-renowned university academics and elite athletic training during his time at Stanford. Now, he’s ready to bring that same discipline and fire to Costa Mesa. “This is the fight I’ve been waiting for,” said Kirkman. “Making my Southern California debut is a big step in my journey, and I plan to put on a performance that shows I belong among the best prospects in the division.”

Kirkman has used his training camp to sharpen his fundamentals and build the kind of endurance that will allow him to dictate the pace against a dangerous puncher like Vanderlinden. “Wesley is tough, no question. He’s strong and aggressive, but I’ve prepared for that with the guidance of my trainer Eddie Croft and the support of SNAC Nutrition,” Kirkman added. “This is a chance for me to show the fans there that I can out-think and out-fight someone who brings real heat. I’m here to control the action, not react to it.”

Beyond his undefeated record, Kirkman carries with him a deep sense of pride, representing both his hometown and the values of his alma mater every time he steps into the ring. “I carry the Stanford name with me into every fight, not just the school, but what it represents…excellence, grit, and pushing past limits,” Kirkman concluded. “A win on October 23 keeps me on track toward becoming not just a great fighter, but a complete professional in and out of the ring.”

Promoted by Roy Englebrecht Promotions, Fight Club OC is widely regarded as one of the best regional boxing platforms in the country. Known for its packed cards and loyal fight fan base, the series has helped launch the careers of many West Coast fighters—and now it serves as a proving ground for Kirkman’s national rise.

The October 23 event promises to deliver another thrilling night of competitive matchups, with Kirkman vs. Vanderlinden standing out as a must-watch for fans of rising talent.

Tickets priced $75, $95, $100 and $200 are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (949) 760-3131 or online at TIX.com. The OC Fair/The Hanger is located at 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. (General Public Enter – Gate 1 off Fair Dr.) Map & Directions

COSTA MESA, CA (September 25, 2025) — Undefeated middleweight prospect Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (5-0, 2 KOs) is set to make a quick return to action when he enters the ring in a scheduled 6-round bout against an opponent to be announced. The fight will take place at The Hangar in Costa Mesa, California, on October 23, 2025, as part of promoter Roy Englebrecht’s popular Fight Club OC series.

Kirkman, who graduated from Stanford University earlier this year, has shifted his full focus toward his professional boxing career and is determined to continue building momentum inside the ring. With his undefeated record and reputation as a disciplined, intelligent, and powerful young fighter, he’s eager to put on a show for Southern California fans.

“I’m grateful to be back in the ring so soon after my last fight,” said Kirkman. “Staying active is one of the most important things for a young fighter like myself. Every time I step into the ring, I gain more experience, more confidence, and I sharpen my craft. “I’m ready to show the progress I’ve made since my last fight and continue proving why I belong among boxing’s top prospects.”

Fighting in Southern California for the first time, Kirkman is excited to broaden his fanbase with a spectacular performance. “This is my first time fighting in Southern California, and it’s something I’m looking forward too,” he added. “Fight Club OC has a great reputation, and I know the fans here love boxing and bring great energy. I want to give them a performance that excites them and makes them remember my name. To be part of this stage is an honor, and I’m ready to bring the fire to Costa Mesa.”

“No fighter can make it on their own—it takes a team that believes in you, pushes you, and guides you in the right direction,” conclude Kirkman, on building his career with the support of his team. “I’m fortunate to have the right people in my corner, and together we’re building my career step by step. My job is to stay disciplined, stay hungry, and keep giving everything I have every time I fight. With an outstanding team behind me, I know the sky’s the limit.”

Kirkman’s appearance at Fight Club OC continues his rise as one of boxing’s most promising young middleweights. Combining his academic achievements at Stanford with his dedication to the sport, he’s quickly carving out a reputation as both a thinker and a fighter—a rare blend that makes him one to watch.

Tickets priced $75, $95, $100 and $200 are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (949) 760-3131 or online at TIX.com. The OC Fair/The Hanger is located at 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. (General Public Enter – Gate 1 off Fair Dr.) Map & Directions

PALO ALTO, CA (September 8, 2025) – From the opening bell, Stanford graduate and rising middleweight prospect Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (5-0, 2 KOs) showcased complete command in his latest outing, scoring a dominant unanimous decision victory over Dylan Carlson (2-11-3, 1 KO) in a four-round bout at “Thunder Showdown III”, held this past Saturday, September 6 at The Venue at Thunder Valley Casino Resort.

Promoted by Nasser Niavaroni of Uppercut Boxing Promotions, the event saw Kirkman bring the heat early and often, walking Carlson down and unleashing crisp, calculated combinations throughout. Judges saw it the same way, scoring the bout 40-36 across the board in favor of Kirkman.

“I felt sharp in there,” Kirkman said after the fight. “From the first round on, I wanted to make a statement by setting the pace and showing what I’ve been working on in camp. I respect Carlson for coming to fight, but I knew I had the tools to control every round—and I think I did that.”

The victory marks the fifth straight win for Kirkman, who continues to turn heads with each appearance in the ring. With a growing fan base and momentum on his side, he’s hungry for more before the year ends. “I’d love to get back in there one more time before the end of 2025,” he shared. “I’m healthy, I’m motivated, and I feel like I’m just scratching the surface of what I can do. Every fight, I’m leveling up.”

Balancing brains and brawn, Kirkman brings an unusual pedigree to the sport, having completed a rigorous academic journey at Stanford University before launching his professional boxing career. “Four years at Stanford taught me discipline and mental toughness,” Kirkman reflected. “Now, I’m learning how to channel that same drive into my boxing career. Every fight is another step forward, and I’m starting to see the picture come together.”

With another decisive performance behind him, Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman continues to blaze his path in the middleweight division, building momentum toward what’s shaping up to be a breakout run.

Throughout his rise in the amateur ranks and through four fights as a professional, middleweight prospect Dante Kirkman was living a dual life. While shining athletically in boxing, Kirkman was also excelling in school, eventually making his way to prestigious Stanford University in Stanford, California. Having graduated in June, Kirkman can now fully focus on his professional boxing career beginning this Saturday night as he takes on Dylan Carlson in a featured four-round bout at the Venue at Thunder Valley at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, California. 

Kirkman (4-0, 2 KOs) of East Palo Alto, California developed a passion for both boxing and academics at a young age, through his parents Robert and Catherine. Kirkman’s father competed as an amateur boxer and continued to follow the sport as an adult. Robert’s love for boxing eventually rubbed off on his younger son Dante, who had tried his hand at team sports, but gravitated to the one-on-one aspect of the sweet science. 

“In boxing, I could control my own destiny and with my dad being a boxing fan, he always wanted to raise my brother and I to protect ourselves,” recalls Kirkman. “Part of that was watching boxing. I remember watching Floyd Mayweather and thinking he was awesome. He gets to do his own thing and he wins without other people being a factor. Whether he loses a round or anything, it was always up to him. It wasn’t up to a lineman or somebody else making a bad pass.” 

The studious side of Kirkman was heavily influenced by his mother Catherine, as well as his brother Tremaine, who is eight years older and graduated from Stanford in 2016. 

“My mom went to Harvard for undergrad and Stanford for law school,” details Kirkman. “We grew up near Stanford, so if we went to a football game or a basketball game, that’s where we went. Obviously, with my mom having a history there and it being one of the best schools, it was always a dream for my brother and that passed down to me. For my dad, he always wanted us to have a good life. He would always say he wanted us to be cool nerds.” 

As he progressed and began challenging himself as a fighter in national tournaments, Kirkman was hitting the books just as hard so that he could realize his dream of attending Stanford. 

“It was pretty intense,” says Kirkman of the juggling of both worlds. “My mom played a big factor, making sure I didn’t slack off. It would have been very easy to slack off because I was tired after training. Whenever I would get back after training, I’d hit myself with the massage gun and be tired and my mom would go, ‘Alright it is homework time.’ So I would do homework for three or four hours until midnight or however long it took and then wake up for the next day. It was a grueling process that I feel is a testament to the people that care about me. It was not a fun experience necessarily, but something I was able to bite down and get through.” 

By the time Kirkman was accepted and enrolled at Stanford, the COVID-19 pandemic had hit, which meant beginning college life off campus in a remote learning setting. With the coronavirus uncontrolled, Kirkman did not have any sanctioned competitions to worry about as he began school and continued to train. While most of his classmates were likely disappointed, Kirkman found the positive in his unique situation. 

“That year, USA Boxing was on pause for a majority of it,” explains Kirkman. “It was good for my training though, because I could really focus and then hop on the computer and go do homework and then go back to training. That year things were shut down for the most part.” 

In 2023, while preparing for the U.S. Olympic Trials, Kirkman took a break from school to prepare for the tournament. 

“For my schooling, we actually took a little bit of a break before the Olympic Trials,” explains Kirkman. “We felt like this was the time to take a few quarters off and have a good performance in the qualifiers. In the first round, I beat the National Golden Gloves champion of that year. In the quarterfinals, I beat the national champion of the weight class above me, who was also the number two seed. In the semi-finals, I lost a tough fight to Keon Davis. After the Olympic Trials, I went back on campus. Immediately after I lost, I knew that meant I was going to be turning pro and that was pretty tough with school.” 

In many academic programs, student-athletes are given some level of grace with assignment deadlines and the like. As Kirkman prepared for his professional debut, which took place in May of last year and resulted in a four-round unanimous decision win over Henry Rivera, he found out that being a student/professional athlete did not garner him any leeway at Stanford. 

“I thought maybe it might be easier,” admits Kirkman of his expectations. “I thought that professors would be a little more understanding since they knew I was competing at a high level in amateur boxing. But the label amateur led them to believe it was more of a hobby thing. As an athlete, but not an actual Stanford athlete, I wasn’t getting a lot of support from professors. I thought that might change with the professional label, but that did not change. So that was a pretty difficult process. I still had an amazing training camp and a dominant performance in my debut.” 

Despite the heavy workload in school, Kirkman continued to excel in the ring as a professional. The East Palo Alto native, nicknamed “The Inferno,” scored a four-round unanimous decision over awkward Miguel Soto-Garcia last August before notching his first two stoppage victories last November and this past March. While finishing up his last quarter at Stanford, Kirkman was scheduled to fight this past May against tough Jose Manuel Gomez, before needing to withdraw from the bout. 

“I saw he is also fighting on the sixth, so hopefully I will be able to share the ring with him after this fight,” says Kirkman of Gomez, who will be in the main event on Saturday against undefeated Islam Abdusamadov. “I was hoping to fight him in this fight, but I saw he was already booked. I think it would be a really great fight and I would like to take that step-up.” 

While he did not get to fight in May, Kirkman, who majored in Art Practice, soon thereafter achieved one of his ambitions by graduating from Stanford University. 

“It was pretty tough, but I grinded it out and officially finished as Stanford’s first professional boxer and graduate,” says Kirkman proudly. “It was really an honor. It was a letdown that I didn’t get to fight then, because I did want to fight then, but I was still very happy to graduate at that time and achieve one of my goals.” 

Now, with his degree mounted on the wall, Dante Kirkman can focus entirely on his pursuits as a professional boxer. Outside of his time preparing for the Olympic Trials, Kirkman has always had his studies drawing his time and attention away from boxing, yet he still managed to compete at a high level. With that time no longer diverted, Kirkman the boxer is excited to show what he can do. 

“I am blessed to be boxing full-time and I am really excited for this new journey,” explains Kirkman. “My whole boxing career, both in amateurs and professionally, has been while simultaneously trying to be the best I can be academically. I am excited to be getting the proper rest and proper training times and reaching new levels.” 

Having graduated in June, Kirkman began camp for his next bout in July, his first as a professional boxer only. 

“I graduated in June, so this camp has been pretty clear of anything to interrupt my training, so it has been great,” says Kirkman. “Now that I am out of school and not trying so hard to get an A in class or be late or anything, it really just makes things a whole lot easier. Now that I am full-time boxing, it also makes things easier mentally as well. I am mentally clear and fully have my mind on boxing. We have just been getting ready, looking to get back active and get as many fights as possible. We will take it one fight at a time, but after this, hopefully go up to six rounds and step-up the competition.” 

Dylan Carlson (2-10-3, 1 KO) of Klamath Falls, Oregon may not sport the best record, but he has never been stopped, despite the ten defeats. While four rounds does not always provide the time required to finish a tough opponent inside the distance, Kirkman worries only about putting on the best performance possible and securing the victory this coming Saturday night. 

“Whatever happens in the fight happens,” says Kirkman. “If he gets stopped, he gets stopped, but we are looking overall to just get the win. Our end goal is to get me to the top championship level, so we are always trying to increase our skillset and our secret sauce. I had a lot of improvement in my last fight camp. That fight ended up only being one round, so I didn’t get to show a whole lot of it in there. So for this fight, I am looking forward to showing how I’ve been developing as a pro and hopefully giving a sneak peak of what is to come in the future.” 

Kirkman, no longer the student-athlete and now simply a prizefighter, plans to show his supportive fanbase what he can do when fully focused on his craft, beginning this Saturday in Lincoln. 

“My fans can expect to see someone that is very passionate about boxing, displaying their skills on the blank canvas of the ring and doing what I always do: bringing the heat, as my Inferno nickname indicates,” says Kirkman. “I plan to put on a great show and a dominant performance.”

Tickets for the event, promoted by Upper Cut Promotions, are available online at uppercutpro.com 

Photo by Ed Silva/Original Solo Photos

Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortegajr.mario@gmail.com

PALO ALTO, CA (August 27, 2025) – Undefeated middleweight prospect Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (4-0, 2 KOs) has officially locked in his opponent for Saturday, September 6, 2025, at The Venue at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, California. The 4-round showdown will see Kirkman take on tough Oregon native Dylan Carlson (2-10-3, 1 KO), a gritty and durable competitor who has never been stopped in his professional career. The bout will be part of the stacked “Thunder Showdown III” event, promoted by Nasser Niavaroni of Uppercut Boxing Promotions.

After weeks of anticipation, Kirkman is eager to finally have his opponent confirmed and his focus locked in for fight night. “Securing an opponent always feels like that final piece clicking into place,” said Kirkman. “Now it’s real. Now we go to war. I’ve stayed patient and stayed in the gym, and I’m ready to show everyone why they call me ‘The Inferno.’”

On fighting Carlson, who has never been knocked out, Kirkman, who recently just graduated from Stanford University, gives his thoughts on fighting a durable opponent. “Dylan Carlson is the kind of fighter who doesn’t quit,” continued Kirkman. “He’s been in there with undefeated guys who hit hard and push the pace, and no one’s put him away. That tells me everything I need to know—he’s coming to fight, and I respect that. But I’m ready to test myself against someone who’s never been stopped.

Known for his sharp fundamentals, high work rate, and explosive power, Kirkman promises to bring a new level of intensity to the ring as he continues building momentum in the middleweight division. “Expect me to throw a tremendous amount of punches in this fight as I’m in incredible shape,” Kirkman concluded. “Expect pressure. Expect growth. Every time I step in that ring, I’m sharpening my craft and raising the bar. September 6, I’m fighting for everyone who believes in me, and I’m going to put on a show.”

PALO ALTO, CA (August 14, 2025) – Undefeated middleweight prospect Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (4-0, 2 KOs) will make his return to the ring on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at The Venue at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, California. The 4-round bout, opponent TBA, will be featured on the action-packed “Thunder Showdown III” card, promoted by Nasser Niavaroni’s Uppercut Boxing Promotions.

This fight marks Kirkman’s first bout since graduating from Stanford University, where he balanced a rigorous academic schedule with his undefeated boxing career. “It feels amazing to be back,” said Kirkman. “I’ve missed the rhythm of fight camp, the pressure of fight week, and the energy of the ring. Now that school is behind me, it’s time to go full throttle.”

A proud native of Palo Alto, Kirkman will once again have the home crowd behind him at Thunder Valley—just a short drive from where he grew up and trained. “Fighting at Thunder Valley is nice because it’s close to home, so I’ll have my whole support system in the building—family, friends, even a few professors, probably,” stated Kirkman. “That energy pushes me to put on a show, and that’s exactly what I plan on doing.”

Kirkman, known for his incredible work rate, calculated pressure, and explosive athletic ability, sees this return bout as a critical step in building momentum toward his goal of becoming a top contender in the middleweight division. “Every fight is a step up the ladder,” he concluded. “Getting this W in front of my people? That’s motivation. The middleweight division is stacked, and I want my name in that conversation. This is just the beginning and I’m working toward that top 10 ranking.”

PALO ALTO, CA (June 18, 2025) – Undefeated middleweight prospect Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (4-0, 2 KOs) has added a prestigious accolade to his already impressive resume—earning his bachelor’s degree from Stanford University. With this achievement, Kirkman becomes the first professional boxer in history to graduate from Stanford, fulfilling a lifelong dream born and nurtured in his hometown of Palo Alto, California.

Balancing the rigorous academic demands of one of the nation’s top universities with the physical and mental challenges of life as a professional fighter, Kirkman’s journey is one of unrelenting determination and passion. “Graduating from Stanford is a dream come true,” said Kirkman. “Growing up practically across the street from campus, I always told myself I’d wear that cap and gown one day. To walk across that stage as both a student and a professional athlete means everything to me.”

While pursuing his degree, Kirkman maintained an undefeated record in the ring—demonstrating the same grit in class as he did in competition. “There were moments I questioned whether I could juggle it all,” Kirkman reflected. “Early mornings, late nights, training sessions in between lectures—it was grueling. But every challenge sharpened me. It taught me how to manage my time, push through fatigue, and never lose sight of my goals.”

As both an athlete and scholar, Kirkman hopes his story will ignite the ambitions of young athletes everywhere. “If I can do it, so can you,” he continued. “No dream is too big. Whether it’s an elite education or a championship fight, don’t ever let anyone tell you it’s one or the other. You can do both—you just have to believe in yourself and put in the hard work.” Kirkman will be launching his own nonprofit soon to help others make this journey, as one of his goals is to use his professional stature to pay it forward and help uplift others in the boxing community.

With diploma in hand, Kirkman is now focused on climbing the ranks in the middleweight division, with plans to return to the ring later this summer. “This is just the beginning. I’ve got my degree, but I’m still chasing greatness inside the ring. I’m hungrier than ever—and now, even more prepared to take on the world.”

PALO ALTO, CA (April 15, 2025) — Unbeaten middleweight prospect and Stanford University senior Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (4-0, 2 KOs) is set to return to the ring on May 24, 2025, in a 6-round showdown against Jose Manuel Gomez (4-5-1, 4 KOs) at the Pleasanton Fairgrounds, in the heart of Northern California. The event titled “The Next Generation of Fighters” is being brought to you by Elite Underdog Promotions.

?The unbeaten Palo Alto native, balancing his college studies and his professional boxing career, will step into the ring for the second time this year as he continues to build momentum and stay active in 2025.

“It feels great to be back in the ring and this year I want to try to get in five fights,” said Kirkman. “Staying busy is the key to getting better. This is my second fight of 2025, and I want to keep pushing myself forward. Every fight is a chance to grow.”

“Gomez is tough and has some power, so I’m preparing for a real fight,” continued Kirkman on his matchup with Gomez. “I respect anyone who steps into the ring, but I’m ready to handle business and keep my ‘0’ intact.”

The May 24 bout will also serve as another homecoming bout for Kirkman, who last fought at Thunder Valley Casino Resort, in Lincoln. All four of Kirkman’s fights have been in Northern California. “Fighting at home means everything to me,” added Kirkman. “There’s no better feeling than having your family, friends, and community in the crowd. It’s extra motivation to put on a great show.”

Making his mark both academically and athletically, Kirkman will soon become the first Stanford University graduate to compete as a professional boxer—a rare distinction he takes immense pride in. “I’m proud to represent Stanford in the boxing world,” concluded Kirkman. “It shows that you can chase your dreams in and out of the classroom. I hope my journey inspires others to break barriers too.”

The San Francisco Bay Area has a crop of young fighters beginning to emerge that may make up the next wave of world champions to come from the region. One fighter that has received some attention, partially due to his unique story of balancing time as a Stanford student, majoring in Art Practice, with a career in the fistic arts, is junior middleweight Dante Kirkman. The Silicon Valley native’s story of perseverance as a fighter overcoming injury is one just as intriguing and inspiring as his tale as a student-athlete. 

Kirkman (3-0, 1 KO) of Palo Alto, California found appeal in boxing as a youth where other team sports had disappointed him. Growing up, Kirkman tried his hand at just about every sport possible, having played soccer, football, basketball, running track and competing as a wrestler. 

“I remember, with team sports, I never felt like I was getting my fair chance,” explains Kirkman. “I felt like in football, the coaches would play their sons the most or give their sons the ball the most. Or we would lose because somebody didn’t block or something that was out of my control. In boxing, I could control my own destiny and with my dad being a boxing fan, he always wanted to raise my brother and I to protect ourselves.” 

Kirkman’s father, Robert, is not only a boxing fan, he took part in the sport as a young amateur growing up in East Palo Alto. Robert’s passion for the sport did not diminish once his time as an athlete concluded and he eventually passed down his love of boxing to his son. 

“Where my father grew up was, at one point, the murder capital of the U.S. I believe, but he found a great path in life in amateur boxing, competing in the local Golden Gloves and traveling with his gym team,” details Dante. “He never really knew how to pursue boxing as a career, so it was just something he was really good at and really proud of. He was a big Sugar Ray Leonard fan and boxing fan in general. He always kept watching boxing and eventually introduced it to me at a young age.” 

Robert’s fighting career did not blossom into a profession, but when his son expressed interest in boxing, Dante’s father wanted to make sure he got started off the right way so that if he displayed an aptitude for the sweet science, Kirkman would be set up for success. Eventually, Robert was put in touch with retired formerly world-ranked contender Mitchell Julien, who had carved out a noteworthy career mainly in Northern California rings. 

“With my dad’s background in boxing, he had always felt that he wasn’t able to pursue a career because of where he was training at and people not knowing the real route to success,” explains Kirkman. “Because of that, my dad would call and ask around for people that had a deeper history in boxing than he did, like Mitch Julien, who I believe at one point was ranked number eight in the world and fought Roger Mayweather. Mitch wasn’t going to be staying here. I believe he was moving to Houston, but my dad asked Mitch, ‘My son is going to box and I am not going to just bring him to a fitness instructor. I really want him to be led the right way from the beginning.’ So Mitch recommended Eddie Croft.”

Croft, a former world title challenger and one of the most well-respected trainers in Northern California out of his B Street Boxing in San Mateo, turned out to be a perfect fit for Dante and, just as his father had hoped, the young Kirkman would be led the right way from the start. 

“From the beginning, Eddie’s and my personalities were very similar,” says Kirkman. “I really appreciated Eddie’s hunger and knowledge for boxing. All of the things he was teaching to these ten and eleven-year-old kids, he wasn’t just letting them go through the motions, but actually enabling them to understand how boxing works. Eddie was actually teaching them and not letting them slack off.” 

By the time he turned 16, Kirkman had progressed to the point that he was ready to take on the best fighters in the country in national tournaments. Unfortunately, the only thing that could hold Kirkman back was his own body. 

“I had a lot of injuries growing up, from overtraining and issues with my growth plates,” explains Kirkman. “For example, I started out orthodox and I hurt my left shoulder. Then I started training southpaw for a year or two and injured my left shoulder and switched back. I would constantly have something, whether it was a shoulder, elbow or hand, just something that would allow me to have a few fights and then take me out for a little bit. Eventually those injuries slowed down enough for me to be able to compete. My team and I decided it was the time to really start doing it and getting to the next level.” 

While the injuries to his shoulders were a hindrance to his amateur career at the time, the experience of learning to box out of both stances will prove to be quite useful as he pursues his professional career. 

“What is funny is that I am left handed, but I played sports like I was right handed,” recalls Kirkman. “So when Eddie asked me to show my stance, I hesitated for a bit, but I went into the orthodox stance. It wasn’t until two years later, when I injured my shoulder, that Eddie learned that I was actually left handed. Because of that, it was a pretty smooth transition to southpaw because I was actually left handed.” 

All the while Kirkman was pursuing athletic achievement in the ring, the Palo Alto native was also excelling in the classroom. When away from the gym, Kirkman applied his studious nature not only to his classwork, but also to improve as a fighter. 

“I would do film study, where I would see examples of these cool switches, like Willie Pep doing cool sidestep movements and I played around with how I could integrate these subtle switches or how I could do these things,” explains Kirkman. “I ended up doing whole national tournaments orthodox and other whole national tournaments completely southpaw and whole national tournaments going back-and-forth. So that was a great experience for me to be able to have that in my arsenal.” 

While learning to box from both stances was a positive side effect from Kirkman’s recurring injuries, the young boxer was going to need to find a way to stay healthy if he wanted to pursue his Olympic or professional dreams. Luck would have it, that Kirkman’s trainer Eddie Croft knew someone very well that could be of great help.

“SNAC [Scientific Nutrition for Advanced Conditioning] started helping me, through Eddie’s wife, Casey Croft, who is a director at SNAC and has been amazing for my career, about five months before the Olympic Trials,” recalls Kirkman. “I started at the USA Boxing Eastern Qualifier. That was the introductory point, where I just started to get help from them, but even a week made a huge difference in how my body felt. After that, I had a full summer training camp, or multiple training camps with them, where my body completely changed. I grew a lot because I was getting the food I was supposed to eat. I wasn’t overtraining and so I noticed a big difference in my body.” 

Healthy and fully-focused on boxing, with a respite from his workload as a Stanford student, Kirkman performed well at the U.S. Olympic Trials, besting two national champions in early rounds of the December of 2023 tournament, but ultimately coming up short in a semi-final bout with Keon Davis. 

“It was a great experience,” says Kirkman. “I was there to compete, but it also just felt really good to be around the best fighters that in the coming years are going to be competing for or defending world titles. It felt like I belonged there and the legends before me, whether they won or lost, like Terence Crawford, who lost in the Olympic Trials and was there at that Olympic Trials as well, it definitely made me realize that I could do something special in this sport. No matter my story, whether I won or lost, it would be a part of my unique path and one day lead me to greatness.” 

With his Olympic Trials experience in the rearview, Kirkman and his team immediately turned their focus to his professional debut, which would ultimately land in Redwood City, California in May of last year and result in a four-round unanimous decision over a seven-fight veteran. In his second bout, Kirkman would take another four-round decision, this time in Oakland, California, and again sweep all three official scorecards. Unlike some young prospects, Kirkman is planning to keep busy fighting at home and not make any trips to Mexico or elsewhere to fill out his record. Kirkman, who carries the nickname of “The Inferno,” it is part of a concerted effort to build his name in the local markets. 

“It has been a choice,” explains Kirkman. “As a Bay Area native, inspired by Andre Ward, I have always felt that I wanted to have that fanbase behind me and to fight in front of friends and family. I want to be able to gain a larger fanbase behind me and someday fight in the 49ers stadium or Stanford Stadium or the Warriors stadium and have a big Bay Area show.”

Last time out, Kirkman scored his first professional knockout over Jose Madrigal Rodriguez in the third round back in Redwood City. For Kirkman, the victory was extra sweet as he felt he may have silenced some critics by his display of power. 

“That felt great,” explains Kirkman. “I would always get little comments questioning my power from people. It never bothered me. My power played a factor in my amateur fights, and that was with extra padded gloves and headgear, but I would have fight-altering power at times. Also, in my first two fights, once my opponents felt my punches, they did not want to feel them again. It was just awkward, trying to get someone out that once they felt the power, they did not want to feel that again and kind of hopped on the defensive end. So finally getting to close the show in the third fight felt like a confirmation of my hard work and fighting ability.” 

Kirkman will return to the ring on March 8th against eight-fight pro Jose Cruz in a four-rounder at the Venue at Thunder Valley in Lincoln, California. Kirkman will come prepared, having studied his opponent and preparing as best he can for the test come fight night. 

“He’s a bit of an awkward guy,” Kirkman has surmised from his study. “He has a little bit of flash. He’s not a showboat, but he has some extra stuff. He tries to think a little bit. I am just interested in doing what I have to do. My coach Eddie Croft and I have a gameplan and we’re always going to be able to execute it. I just look forward to putting on a good show against a good opponent and hopefully have an exciting fight and get the job done and get my second knockout.” 

To get to this point in his career, it has been a long road traveled from those early years of watching boxing with his father on television for Kirkman. Given his skill, determination and attention to detail, Kirkman’s journey ahead could be one to keep on every Bay Area fight fan’s radar. The promising young fighter looks forward to building his name in just under a month’s time at the Thunder Valley Casino Resort. 

“My fans can expect to see someone that is very passionate about boxing, displaying their skills on the blank canvas of the ring and doing what I always do: bringing the heat,” says Kirkman. “As my Inferno nickname indicates, and hopefully putting on a great show and a dominant performance.” 

Tickets for the March 8th event, promoted by Upper Cut Promotions, are available online at uppercutpro.com 

Photos by Ed Silva/Original Solo Photos 

Mario Ortega Jr. can be reached at ortegajr.mario@gmail.com 

PALO ALTO, CA (February 5, 2025) – Rising middleweight prospect and Stanford University senior, Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (3-0, 1 KO), is set to make his 2025 debut on March 8 in a four-round bout against Jose Cruz of El Monte, CA. The fight will take place at The Venue at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, CA, as part of the “Thunder Showdown II” event promoted by Nasser Niavaroni of Uppercut Boxing Promotions.

Fighting in Northern California, where his family, friends, and a strong Stanford contingent will be in attendance, is something Kirkman is embracing wholeheartedly. “It’s always special fighting close to home,” said Kirkman. “I know the Bay Area fans are going to come out strong for this one, and I can’t wait to put on a show for them. My goal is to end this fight early and march toward a busy 2025.”

Kirkman has also made waves at Stanford University, where he stands out as the only professional boxer in its history, balancing academics and athletics at an elite level. “There’s not another pro boxer walking around Stanford, or any other top college as far as I know, and I like to show kids that they can go far in life as a great student as well as a great fighter.”

A win over Cruz on March 8 would further solidify Kirkman’s status as a rising prospect in the middleweight division. “Every win matters at this stage of my career,” he concluded. “I need to keep stacking victories, improving, and making a name for myself in the sport. I want to fight at least five times this year. I’m looking to gain experience, keep building my record, and make my presence felt in the division.”

Tickets for “Thunder Showdown II” are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com, with pricing as follows: $149.95 (Floor 1 – 4) / $124.95 (Floor 5 – 6) / $89.95 (Lower Mezz) / $74.95 (Mezz) / $59.95 (Balcony), plus taxes and fees. The Venue at Thunder Valley Casino Resort is located at 1200 Athens Ave, Lincoln, CA 95648. Doors open at 6:00 pm, with the first fight set to begin at 7:00 pm.

PALO ALTO, CA (November 21, 2024) – Undefeated super welterweight prospect Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (3-0, 1 KO) delivered a stellar performance this past Saturday, November 16, 2024, scoring his first career knockout with a dominant 3rd-round TKO against Jose Rodriguez at the Fox Theater in Redwood City, CA. Fighting in front of a raucous hometown crowd, the 23-year-old senior at Stanford University showcased precision and power, flooring Rodriguez twice with punishing body shots before the referee stopped the bout at the 2:37 mark of round 3.

Kirkman’s impressive victory solidified his reputation as a rising star in the super welterweight division. “Getting my first knockout was an amazing feeling. It’s something every fighter dreams of, and to do it in front of my hometown fans made it even more special. I’ve been putting in the hard work in the gym, and it’s incredible to see it all pay off in the ring.”

Being the only professional boxer to walk the Stanford University campus in its school history, Kirkman appreciates the fans support he gets from students, in addition to his family and friends. “There’s nothing like fighting in front of the people who’ve supported me from the start. Palo Alto and Stanford have been my home, and I’m proud to represent both. My goal is to be the face of Stanford Boxing and inspire others to chase their dreams, no matter where they come from.”

Kirkman’s blend of athleticism, discipline, and academics sets him apart as a unique figure in the sport. With his first knockout in the books, the young prospect is eager to continue his rise and make a name for himself in and out of the ring.

“This win is just the beginning,” concluded Kirkman. “I’m excited to get back to training and keep improving. I want to stay active, build on this momentum, and work my way up the rankings. The goal is to show that I belong among the best in the division.”

A standout boxer and full-time student, Kirkman balances his promising career in the ring with his academic pursuits as a senior at Stanford University. With a perfect record and growing fanbase, he’s quickly becoming a hometown favorite in the Bay Area and a name to watch in boxing’s super welterweight division.

PALO ALTO, CA (November 1, 2024) – Undefeated super welterweight prospect Dante Kirkman (2-0) will make his return to the ring on November 16, 2024, at the Fox Theater in Redwood City, CA. The event, promoted by Westside Promotions, will mark Kirkman’s third fight of 2024. Known for his high punch volume and ring IQ, the 23-year-old Kirkman is preparing for a scheduled 4-round bout against Jose Rodriguez.

Kirkman, a senior at Stanford University, continues to build an impressive following while balancing his academic pursuits and professional boxing career. The Palo Alto native trains under the guidance of former world title challenger Eddie Croft at B-Street Boxing in nearby San Mateo, CA, where he’s been pushing himself to deliver another memorable performance in front of his hometown crowd. 

“Fighting in front of my hometown fans is an honor, and it’s something I don’t take lightly,” said Kirkman, who goes by the nickname “The Inferno”. “It’s a special feeling knowing that I have family, friends, and the community cheering me on. It drives me to give them my best in the ring.” 

In addition to local support, Kirkman’s peers at Stanford University have also been rallying behind his journey in the squared circle. “The encouragement from my fellow students has been incredible,” Kirkman expressed. “Balancing my studies and boxing can be challenging but having them in my corner gives me an extra boost of confidence. I’m proud to represent Stanford in the ring.” 

Kirkman credits his rapid growth as a fighter to the rigorous training regimen developed by his coach, Eddie Croft. “Coach Eddie and I have been putting in a lot of work to make sure I’m at my peak,” Kirkman concluded. “He’s been pushing me every day to sharpen my skills and stay focused, so I’m ready to put on a show at Fox Theater.” 

Tickets for the event are now on sale, and a large hometown crowd is expected to fill the Fox Theater in support of Kirkman’s continued rise in the sport. Click HERE to purchase tickets. 

PALO ALTO, CA (September 2, 2024) – Dante Kirkman, the 22-year-old welterweight prospect from Palo Alto, CA, and current Stanford University student, secured his second professional victory this past Saturday, August 31, 2014. Kirkman defeated Miguel Soto-Garcia (1-4) from Mexico City by unanimous decision in a 4-round bout promoted by Lion’s Den Promotions at the Marriott on Broadway in Oakland.

Kirkman, who continues to balance his academic pursuits with his boxing career, displayed an impressive punch output in this fight, dominating every round from start to finish. The victory came in front of a supportive Bay Area crowd.

“It feels great to get my second win as a pro,” said Kirkman, who is sponsored by Victor Conte’s SNAC nutrition. “Every fight is a learning experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to showcase what I’ve been working on in the gym. Fighting in the Bay Area is special to me. The support from the local community means everything, and I wanted to make sure I put on a good show for them. There’s nothing like the energy of fighting at home. This victory is another step forward in my journey.”

After making his professional debut in May of 2024, Kirkman, who goes by the nickname “Inferno” is hoping to secure two more fights by the end of the year. He is coached by former world title challenger Eddie Croft.

“I’m eager to stay busy and continue building momentum,” concluded Kirkman. “The more experience I gain, the better I’ll become. Coach Eddie Croft and I have a great connection. We’ve been working together for a long time, and he knows how to bring out the best in me. Our chemistry is strong, and I trust him completely in preparing me for each fight. My goal is to fight two more times this year, keep improving, and keep climbing the ranks. After I graduate from Stanford, it’s all boxing moving forward.”

PALO ALTO, CA (August 12, 2024) – Undefeated 22-year-old welterweight prospect Dante Kirkman (1-0), a native of Palo Alto, CA, has made an impressive entrance into the professional boxing world while balancing an academic career at one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Kirkman, who made his professional debut in May of this year, is currently a senior at Stanford University.

Kirkman stands out as the only professional boxer in Stanford’s history, a unique distinction that reflects his dedication to both his education and his passion for the sweet science. Trained by former world title challenger Eddie Croft at the renowned B Street Gym in San Mateo, CA, Kirkman has been honing his skills in the ring since the age of 10. His journey as a boxer has been marked by a relentless pursuit of growth and learning, culminating in his qualification for the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2023, where he was a semi-finalist. 

In addition to his studies and training, Kirkman has gained invaluable experience through internships with Mayweather Promotions and USA Boxing. These opportunities have further fueled his passion for boxing and deepened his understanding of the sport from both a business and athletic perspective.

“I’ve always enjoyed the challenges that boxing presents,” said Kirkman, who is a promotional free agent. “Balancing my academic life with my career as a prizefighter is tough, but it’s incredibly rewarding. People ask me why I box professionally being that I’ll be a Stanford grad soon, and I just simply say, I love the sweet science, it’s my passion. I’m excited to continue growing in both arenas and to see where this journey takes me.”

As Kirkman approaches the completion of his education at Stanford, he remains focused on his dual goals…excelling in the ring and earning his degree. With his debut victory already under his belt, Kirkman is eager to continue his rise in the welterweight division, all while representing the Stanford community as a scholar-athlete. 

His next fight is scheduled for August 31, 2024, at the Marriott on Broadway, in Oakland, CA, an event promoted by Uppercut Boxing Promotions, in association with Lion’s Den Promotions and Devin Haney Promotions. Kirkman, who has a large Bay Area following, advises, “My team is finalizing the details, and I can’t wait to get back in the ring.”