LOS ANGELES (June 25, 2025) –- Unified World Cruiserweight Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs) has expressed his highest respect for the Mexican vs. Cuban boxing rivalry that continues this Saturday night (June 28) when he defends his World Boxing Organization (WBO) and World Boxing Association (WBA) titles against the WBA’s No. 1, mandatory challenger Yuniel “The KO Doctor” Dorticos (27-2, 25 KOs).

Ramirez vs. Dorticos is the 12-round co-feature on the stacked DAZN Pay-Per-View event, presented by MVP Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions, featuring internet sensation Jake “The Problem Child” Paul (11-1, 7 KOs) versus Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. (54-6-1, 34 KOs), the son of 6-time, 3-division world champion, Hall of Famer Julio Ceasar Chavez (107-6-2, 85 KOs), in the 10-round main event at Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

Legendary Mexican vs. Cuban fights include Gaspar Ortega vs. Kid Gavilan 1 & 2, Jose Luis Castillo vs. Joel Casmayor, Juan Manuel Marquez vs. Casamayor, and Armando Muniz vs. Jose Napoles, 1 & 2.

Mexican fighters are generally aggressive and pressuring, while Cuban fighters are known for their technique, footwork, and defense. However, in the June 28th matchup, “Zurdo” combines excellent technique and footwork, and Dorticos, nicknamed “The KO Doctor,” embodies his knockout style. 

“Zurdo” is 2-0 as a pro against Cuban fighters. In 2021, Ramirez defeated Yuniesky “The Monster” Gonzalez (21-3, 17 KOs) by way of a 12^-th round knockout and he stopped Sullivan Barrera (22-3, 14 KOs) in round four, flooring his opponent three times with body shots. In his last fight more than a year ago, Dorticos fought his first Mexican opponent in the pro ranks, Alan Campa (19-9, 13 KOs), who was stopped in the opening round.

“I have a lot of respect for Cuban fighters,” Ramirez said. “They always possess a lot of skills and are difficult fighters to deal with. Dorticos is a power puncher with good footwork, and I know he can be dangerous at any point of the fight. I’ve trained like I would for any fight, and I’ve never taken an opportunity for granted. I know this fight can change his life and I expect him to bring his best on fight night.”

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 a new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.

This Saturday, June 28, the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, will host a battle that could reshape the cruiserweight landscape. Mexico’s Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez (47-1, 30 KOs), the reigning WBA Super World Champion at 200 pounds, puts his crown on the line against Cuban knockout artist Yuniel “Dr. KO” Dorticos (27-2, 25 KOs).

For the 33-year-old Ramírez, this is a chance to solidify his hold on the division. Since moving up to cruiserweight, the southpaw has showcased his signature volume punching, methodical pressure, and ring IQ—all proving just as effective against bigger men. His most recent victory over Chris Billam-Smith was a statement win, unifying titles and making him the first Mexican to claim two belts at cruiserweight. But there’s one thing missing: a knockout in the new weight class. And against a puncher like Dorticos, Ramírez knows that making a statement may matter just as much as getting the win.

His team, led by trainer Julian Chua, isn’t shying away from that expectation. “We want the knockout,” Chua told reporters. “We’re not just here to win on points—we want to leave a mark. Dorticos has power, but he’s got defensive gaps. We’re going to press him, test his gas tank, and push the pace.”

Across the ring stands Dorticos, the 39-year-old former world champion known for his explosive power. With 25 of his 27 wins coming by knockout, the Cuban banger may have been inactive for over a year, but he enters camp-driven and dangerous, knowing this could be his final shot at glory. He captured the WBA title back in 2017 by flattening Dmitry Kudryashov, and later went to war with Murat Gassiev in a memorable slugfest. Now, he’s aiming to spoil the Zurdo party in Southern California.

The fight promises to be a stylistic chess match wrapped in a powder keg: the measured pressure and southpaw rhythm of Ramírez against the raw power and relentless aggression of Dorticos. It’s method vs. mayhem. Patience vs. urgency.

Tactically, Ramírez may look to wear the Cuban down with body work and control the center of the ring. Dorticos, on the other hand, has no time to waste. The longer the bout stretches, the more it tilts in Zurdo’s favor. That makes the opening rounds critical—Dorticos will need to set the tempo early, and perhaps gamble big to cash in.

The atmosphere at the Honda Center will be electric. Thousands of Mexican fans are expected to rally behind Ramírez, who’s become a staple on the West Coast fight scene. But make no mistake—Dorticos didn’t travel to compete. He came to knock someone out.

LOS ANGELES (June 24, 2025) –- Mexican cruiserweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs) must take care of business this Saturday night in his World Boxing Organization (WBO) and World Boxing Association (WBA) title defenses versus the WBA’s No. 1, mandatory challenger Yuniel “The KO Doctor” Dorticos (27-2, 25 KOs). At stake is a possible mega fight against internet sensation Jake “The Problem Child” Paul (11-1, 7 KOs), who headlines a loaded DAZN Pay-Per-View event, presented by MVP Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.

Ramirez vs. Dorticos is a 12-round co-featured event. Paul faces Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. (54-6-1, 34 KOs), the son of 6-time, 3-division world champion, Hall of Famer Julio Ceasar Chavez (107-6-2, 85 KOs), in the 10-round main event at Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

“This is a great opportunity, and I look forward to putting on a great performance for my fans,” Ramirez said. “I think there is a chance of a possible world title fight in the future against Paul. He mentioned that he was ‘ready’ to challenge me during a recent press conference. I do believe he’s a man of his words and that he meant it.”

Fighting on the same card as Chavez, Jr., of course, is special for “Zurdo” for several reasons.

“His father is one of my favorite fighters of all-time and he did inspire me as a youth to pursue boxing,” Ramirez explained. “I think my fans and Chavez’ will support both of us. We are both from Sinaloa, Mexico, and have a lot of pride in our culture and country.”

Dorticos is certainly dangerous, evident by his 93% KO percentage, 25 of his 27 victories ending before the distance. But with a victory and no injuries, “Zurdo” stands to have two potential options if a match against Paul isn’t next. Next, he could add another world cruiserweight title to his already overloaded display case against reigning champions (IBF) Jay Opetaia (28-0, 22 KOs) or (WBC) Badou Jack (29-3-3, 18 KOs). And Ramirez is also closing in on the mercurial 50 career wins list.

“The goal is still the same,” Ramirez insisted, “becoming undisputed Cruiserweight Champion of the world. But we can still make the Paul fight next. We’ll see if he’s about the action or if it was just talk. I’m getting close to 50 wins, but my focus has always been on becoming a legend in the sport and collecting belts.” 

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 a new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.

ANAHEIM, CA – Thursday, May 29 – Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and DAZN today announced that the highly anticipated Jake Paul vs. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. event is now available for pre-order globally on DAZN pay-per-view. The action-filled evening will come to fans live on Saturday, June 28, from Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif. and can be ordered on DAZN HERE. Golden Boy Promotions will serve as the show’s official licensed promoter. The event is presented by CELSIUS Live Fit Essential Energy, also sponsored by Event Ticket Center, TorkLaw, and Fansly. 

In the main event of the five-fight pay-per-view card airing exclusively on DAZN PPV, Jake “El Gallo de Dorado” Paul (11-1, 7 KOs) will meet Mexico’s former champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. (54-6-1, 34 KOs) in a 10-round blockbuster main event at 200 lbs. The co-main event features a 12-round unified cruiserweight championship bout between Golden Boy Promotions’ WBO & WBA Unified Cruiserweight Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs) facing off against Cuba’s former IBF & WBA Cruiserweight World Champion and WBA mandatory challenger Yuniel Dorticós (27-2, 25 KOs). 

“Everybody knows that Jake Paul brings the action everywhere he goes, and only on DAZN will fans all around the world be able to witness an unforgettable evening on June 28,” said DAZN Head of Marketing, Alife Sharman. “From the main event all the way down the card, there isn’t a dull fight on the docket filled with some of the best talent in the sport.”

O??pening the Paul vs. Chavez Jr. pay-per-view card is undefeated WBA International lightweight champion Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield (18-0, 12 KOs), who will face former IBF super featherweight world champion Tevin Farmer (33-8-1, 8 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight battle at 135 lbs. The main card will also feature MVP’s latest signee, undefeated powerhouse Avious “Tha Underdog” Griffin (17-0, 16 KOs), who will make his promotional debut against New Jersey’s welterweight standout Julian “Hammer Hands” Rodriguez (23-1, 14 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight showdown at 147lbs.  Also joining the main card will be a 10-round welterweight battle at 147 lbs between undefeated Mexican welterweight standout Raul “Cugar” Curiel (15-0-1, 13 KOs)and Uruguay’s fellow undefeated sensation Victor Ezequiel “Latigo” Rodriguez (16-0-1, 9 KOs).

Also on the card, former UFC 135lb Champion and the most dominant two sport athlete of all time, MVP’s Holly “The Preacher’s Daughter” Holm (33-2-3, 9 KOs), makes her long-awaited return to the ring to face Mexico’s undefeated rising prospect Yolanda “Pitayita” Vega  (10-0, 1 KO) in a 10-round lightweight bout contested over two-minute rounds. Joining the preliminary card, MVP’s 20-year-old WBC Youth Light Flyweight World Champion Naomy Valle (14-0, 9 KOs) will face off against Mexico’s 20-year-old Ashley Felix (7-3, 1 KO) in a six-round light flyweight bout at 108 lbs. 

Fans can pre-order the pay-per-view immediately HERE.

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions and @DAZNBoxing or on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions and @DAZNBoxing.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

MVP was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP has produced Jake Paul’s last six global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Perry match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano, in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April 2022 when Serrano went head-to-head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. MVP made history again in November 2024 with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Taylor vs. Serrano 2, the first-ever live professional sports event on Netflix, which became the most-streamed sporting event ever with 108 million live viewers globally. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of Paul vs. Tyson and the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., the 8th most-bought pay-per-view event in history.

About DAZN

DAZN is the home of European football, women’s football, boxing and MMA, and the NFL (excl. USA). We are building the ultimate sports entertainment platform, based on premium sports rights, world-leading tech, and multi-platform distribution. DAZN believes that fans from across the globe should be able to watch, read, bet, play, share, socialise, buy tickets and merchandise, all in one place, with one account, one wallet and on one app. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit?dazngroup.com.

About Honda Center  

Located in the heart of Orange County, Honda Center has remained a premier entertainment and sports venue since its opening in 1993. Home to the 2007 Stanley Cup champion Anaheim Ducks, the arena hosts a variety of events, including sold-out concerts, family entertainment, and thrilling sports competitions. Over the past three decades, Honda Center has remained an iconic and beloved destination for live entertainment in Southern California with over 4,500 events and 45 million guests, paving the way for an even more exciting future. It will anchor the innovative OCVIBE, a 100-acre one-of-a-kind, immersive district designed to bring people together through shared experiences. 

ATLANTA, GA – April 18, 2025 – Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) today announced that boxing’s biggest disruptor, international superstar Jake “El Gallo” Paul (11-1, 7 KOs) takes his next step towards world champion against Mexico’s former champion Julio César Chávez Jr. (54-6-1, 34 KOs) on Saturday, June 28 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. Paul vs. Chávez Jr. will be a standard 10-round men’s professional bout with three minute rounds and 10oz gloves, contested at 200lbs. The historic fight, an MVP Event, will air live globally on DAZN pay-per-view and is presented by CELSIUS Live Fit Essential Energy. Golden Boy Promotions will serve as the official licensed promoter. The event will also feature an array of high-end VIP packages including the return of the one-of-a-kind MVP Owner’s Experience. 

In the co-main event, Golden Boy’s 33-year-old WBO cruiserweight world champion and WBA cruiserweight super champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs)—ESPN’s #2 cruiserweight in the world—will make a title defense against Cuba’s former WBA and IBF cruiserweight world champion, one of the best punchers in boxing and current WBA mandatory challenger Yuniel Dorticós (27-2, 25 KOs) in a men’s world championship bout contested at 200lbs with twelve, three-minute rounds.

The American pride of Puerto Rico, Jake “El Gallo de Dorado” Paul (11-1, 7 KOs), has shown tremendous growth as a boxer on his path to becoming a world champion, and now will look to prove he has what it takes against a former world champion in Julio César Chávez Jr. In just five years since turning pro, Paul has made his impact in the ring, earning high-profile victories over names like Tyron Woodley, Anderson Silva, and Nate Diaz. His viral knockouts and headline-grabbing performances have breathed new life into boxing, drawing millions of fans and setting records. In his latest blockbuster fight in November 2024, Jake Paul defeated the Baddest Man on the Planet, Mike Tyson in a heavyweight bout in the first-ever live professional sporting event on Netflix. MVP’s Paul vs. Tyson shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event ever with 108 million live viewers globally. Paul has collected multiple accolades for his commitment to the sport of boxing, including ESPNRingside’s 2021 Knockout of the Year, Sports Illustrated’s 2021 Breakout Boxer of the Year, ESPNRingside’s 2022 Viral Moment of the Year, and was the cover of Sports Illustrated’s “The 50 Most Influential Figures in Sports” issue, awarded specifically for his groundbreaking work to revolutionize the sport through equitable pay, providing a platform for young fighters, and his support of female boxers. Paul also partnered with USA Boxing ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics, continuing his mission to elevate the sport and its future champions. Paul and MVP are now promoting the biggest all-women’s card in boxing history, Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 3 on Friday, July 11 at Madison Square Garden, live globally on Netflix, which will feature women’s undisputed and unified championship bouts across its entire main card and six of the top 15–and four of the top 10–women’s pound-for-pound fighters on Boxrec. 

“Five years ago, I stepped into the ring for my pro debut after a single amateur fight, and every fight since has been a step towards becoming world champion. I just defeated the baddest man on the planet, and now I’m going against a former champion who conman Canelo couldn’t finish,” said Jake Paul. “Chávez Jr. is Mexican, but I, El Gallo De Dorado, have the will and heart of the great Mexican fighters. On Saturday, June 28, live on DAZN pay-per-view, I will knock out Julio and make Chávez Sr. proud in ways Jr. never has. Another massive event from Most Valuable Promotions, with some Oscar De La Hoya seasoning added to the show. Viva La Puerto Rico.”

Julio César Chávez Jr. (54-6-1, 34 KOs) is a Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico native and son of former three-division world boxing champion Julio César Chávez, “El Gran Campeón Mexicano,” the greatest Mexican fighter of all time. Chávez Jr. began his professional career with an impressive undefeated streak across his first 47 fights. Chávez Jr. climbed the rankings and became the WBC middleweight world champion in 2011, before being defeated by Sergio Martinez in Chávez’s fourth title defense in 2012. Chávez Jr. went on to reclaim regional titles and later won the WBC Continental Americas Super Middleweight title, recently fighting in his hometown of Culiacan to a UD win over David Zegarra. In June 2021, Chávez squared off with MMA star Anderson Silva, suffering a narrow split decision defeat. He most recently returned to the ring to defeat MMA icon Uriah Hall by unanimous decision on the undercard of Jake Paul vs. Mike Perry in July 2024. Now, Chávez Jr. will have the opportunity to grow his legacy further within the cruiserweight division as he faces Jake Paul on Saturday, June 28. 

“First of all, I will show what I can do now that everything is in the right place in my life—mentally and physically,” said Julio César Chávez Jr. “I feel rejuvenated and 10 years younger. Second, I want to thank MVP for taking the risk of fighting me. Unfortunately for their Problem Child, they’re going to have a big problem this June—one they won’t know how to resolve. Hopefully when I beat him, people won’t underestimate this win.”

“Saturday, June 28 marks a defining moment in Jake Paul’s ascent to the top of the boxing world as he aims to show the 125 million people that watched him fight Mike Tyson that he is a real contender in the sport,” said Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions. “Julio César Chávez Jr., a former world champion and the heir to Mexico’s most iconic boxing legacy will be looking to cement his legacy by definitively defeating Jake, something no opponent has been able to do. Add to that the co-main event, which has the return of Mexican Zurdo Ramirez, the WBA and WBO champion, defending his titles against the dangerous Cuban Yuniel Dorticós and you have the ingredients for a night full of fireworks. Most Valuable Promotions is honored to present this momentous card in partnership with Golden Boy Promotions, live from Honda Center in Anaheim and we are proud to continue delivering groundbreaking moments for the sport on DAZN pay-per-view.”

Golden Boy’s Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs) has over a decade of experience under his belt, debuting as a professional in 2009 and embarking on a career that would see him make boxing history multiple times. In 2016, Ramirez won the WBO Super Middleweight title, defeating “King” Arthur Abraham by unanimous decision in a dominant performance. This victory cemented his status as one of the top fighters, and he became the first Mexican-born fighter to win a world title in the division. Ramirez successfully defended his belt multiple times, defeating tough opponents such as Jesse “Hard Work” Hart and Roamer Alexis Angulo. After five defenses of his title, Ramirez moved up to light heavyweight, where he went on a five-fight winning streak before facing Dmitry Bivol in a unification bout in November 2022. Although Ramirez’ undefeated streak ended in this contest, the fight showcased his resilience, heart, and determination to the sport. Turning that loss into a lesson, Ramirez returned to the ring 11 months later as a cruiserweight this time around. In November 2024, Ramirez made boxing history once again, becoming the first Mexican-born unified cruiserweight champion in an all-action packed war against Chris Billam-Smith in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Ramirez’s legacy as one of the most skilled and dangerous fighters of his era continues to grow, and he is widely regarded as one of Mexico’s best current champions.

“I’m excited to step back into the ring this June to defend my WBA and WBO titles. This fight marks my WBA mandatory, and I know I need to get past this opponent to stay on track in my journey toward greatness—and ultimately, to become the undisputed champion,” said Zurdo Ramirez. “I’ve been training non-stop and feel sharper than ever as I continue to grow and mature in the sport. The goal hasn’t changed. I’m locked in, and I’m proud to be featured on this card alongside Jake Paul and my good friend Julio César Chávez Jr. A big thank you to my team, Golden Boy Promotions, MVP, the WBA, the WBO, and all my fans. I can’t wait to put on a show you won’t forget.”

WBA mandatory challenger Yuniel Dorticós (27-2, 25 KOs), known as “The KO Doctor,” is a Cuban professional boxer renowned for his explosive punching power and success in the cruiserweight division. Born on March 11, 1986, in Cienfuegos, Cuba, he enjoyed a strong amateur career, finishing as a national runner-up multiple times and competing in the Boxing World Cup before defecting to the United States in 2009. Turning professional the same year, Dorticós quickly gained attention by winning his first 17 fights by knockout. He captured the WBA interim cruiserweight title in 2016 and went on to become the WBA (Regular) champion in 2017, defending the title until a loss to Murat Gassiev in 2018. In 2019, he claimed the vacant IBF cruiserweight title with a knockout victory over Andrew Tabiti during the World Boxing Super Series (WBSS), ultimately reaching the WBSS final, where he lost a close decision to Mairis Briedis. Known for his aggressive style and knockout power—evidenced by a record of 27 wins (25 by KO) and just 2 losses—Dorticós remains a respected force in the ring. He resides in Miami, Florida, where he continues to train and represent the proud tradition of Cuban boxing.

“I want to thank MVP, my promoters and Golden Boy for this opportunity,” said Yuniel Dorticós. “My goal is to become a three-time world champion, and now by fighting Zurdo Ramirez I have been granted the chance to accomplish my goals on Saturday, June 28.”

“Once again, Golden Boy is proving that we’re willing to work with anyone to deliver the biggest and most exciting events in boxing. We’re thrilled to partner with Jake Paul, Nakisa Bidarian, Most Valuable Promotions, and DAZN to bring this blockbuster night to fans around the world,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “Now the WBA and WBO Unified Cruiserweight Champion, Zurdo has made history not once, but twice—first as the first Mexican-born fighter to become a super middleweight world champion, and now as the first-ever Mexican to claim a cruiserweight world title, holding championships in both divisions. Ramirez is ready to light up the ring once again—this time against the dangerous Yuniel Dorticós, who’s coming in with everything he’s got to steal the spotlight in this mandatory matchup. But make no mistake: Zurdo is built for moments like this. It’s going to be an unforgettable night celebrating the best of Mexican boxing!”

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Jake Paul back to DAZN against a championship calibre opponent in Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.” said Jared Kass, SVP North America, DAZN. “We are grateful to our partners at MVP and Golden Boy for delivering an unmissable night of action from start to finish. So tune in Saturday, June 28, only on DAZN.”

Paul vs. Chávez Jr. is produced and marketed by Most Valuable Promotions, with Golden Boy Promotions serving as the official licensed promoter, and is distributed by DAZN pay-per-view. The event is presented by CELSIUS Live Fit Essential Energy, also sponsored by Fansly and Event Ticket Center. Additional information, including additional bouts, will be announced in the coming weeks. 

For more information, follow on X via @MostVPromotions, @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZNBoxing on Instagram via @MostValuablePromotions, @goldenboy, and @daznboxing.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

MVP was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP have produced Jake Paul’s last six global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Perry match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. MVP made history again in November 2024 with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson and Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2, the first-ever live professional sports event on Netflix. MVP’s Paul vs. Tyson streamed live globally on Netflix and shattered records, becoming the most-streamed sporting event ever with 108 million live viewers globally. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of Paul vs. Tyson and the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

About DAZN

DAZN is the home of European football, women’s football, boxing and MMA, and the NFL (excl. USA). We are building the ultimate sports entertainment platform, based on premium sports rights, world-leading tech, and multi-platform distribution. DAZN believes that fans from across the globe should be able to watch, read, bet, play, share, socialise, buy tickets and merchandise, all in one place, with one account, one wallet and on one app.

For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit?dazngroup.com.

About Golden Boy

Golden Boy Promotions was established in 2002 by current Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya, an International Hall of Famer and a 10-time World Champion in six divisions. Golden Boy is the first Latino-owned boxing promotions company with a world-renowned reputation in organizing the largest and highest grossing events in the history of the sport. With more than two-decades as an industry leader and a lengthy roster of past, current and future world champions, Golden Boy will continue to leave an indelible mark in sports history.

About Honda Center  

Located in the heart of Orange County, Honda Center has remained a premier entertainment and sports venue since its opening in 1993. Home to the 2007 Stanley Cup champion Anaheim Ducks, the arena hosts a variety of events, including sold-out concerts, family entertainment, and thrilling sports competitions. Over the past three decades, Honda Center has remained an iconic and beloved destination for live entertainment in Southern California with over 4,500 events and 45 million guests, paving the way for an even more exciting future. It will anchor the innovative OCVIBE, a 100-acre one-of-a-kind, immersive district designed to bring people together through shared experiences.

LOS ANGELES (January 13, 2024) – One of the fastest developing managerial companies in boxing, 3 Point Management (3 PM), is heading into a potentially explosive and title-collecting 2025, led by Unified World Cruiserweight Champion “Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs), super flyweight world title contender John “Scrappy” Ramirez (14-1, 10 KOs and rising super middleweight prospect Darius “DFG” Fulghum (13-0, 11 KOs).

“Last year, everybody did what they were supposed to do to be in position for big fights in 2025,” said Julian Chua, one of the best young trainers in the industry, “especially ‘Zurdo’,’Scrappy’, and Darius. 3 PM has stacked and built what I believe will be a career-defining year for our stable of fighters.”

The lead trainer at state-of-the art Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood, California, Chua is head trainer for “Zurdo,” “Scrappy” and another 3 PM fighter, light heavyweight Kareen “Supreme” Hackett (12-1, 6 KOs).

“Zurdo,” 33, is the first Mexican-born boxer to be crowned World Super Middleweight Champion and World Cruiserweight titlist, as well as the first Mexican fighter to unify World Cruiserweight titles. Ramirez is on a journey to become the undisputed, unified King of the Cruiserweights and that translates into a mega-fight against IBF world champion Jay Opetaia (26-0, 20 KOs), of Australia. But there may also be opportunity for a Fight of the Century-type match for Ramirez against world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk (23-0, 14 KOs), the former undisputed world cruiserweight champion who has indicated that he may drop back down to cruiserweight in an attempt to duplicate his feat. And there’s always a possibility of “Zurdo” moving up to the bridgerweight division before ultimately closing his career as a heavyweight.

“’Zurdo’ doesn’t kill himself to make weight anymore and that’s a big factor in his success at cruiserweight,” Chia noted. “The most concern for him moving up was durability but he’s proven that with his agility, angles, and defensive responsibilities. He’s not sitting in the pocket anymore because he throws 5 or 6 punches and then moves and resets. He changes his angles in the pocket and that’s a big ask for bigger guys. The cruiserweight division is perfect for him. He’s a stylish southpaw who will continue to chase all the belts; he has Badou Jack (IBF) and Jay Opetia (WBC). We still have a mandatory defense against (Yuniel) Dorticos (27-2, 25 KOs), but against Opetia will be an epic fight and I like ‘Zurdo” to win that fight when the time comes.”

WBA No. 2-rated “Scrappy” (also WBC #15) is coming of an impressive 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Ephraim Bui (10-1, 8 KOs), avenging his first and only loss as a pro last April to veteran Fernando David Jimenez (16-1, 5-1, 11 KOs) last April 20th for the WBA Interim Super Flyweight World title.

“He handled that fight (vs. Bui) very well against a fighter with a lot of experience for a fighter who started boxing only eight years ago,” Chua added. “He showed his growth. He still has that swagger, but with some humility. Fighters who are undefeated don’t think anybody can beat them. ‘Scrappy’ was kind of a rogue in that fight (vs. Jimenez).

“’Scrappy’ has matured. I can’t wait until he shows everybody, maybe in one or two fights and by the end of 2025, he’s a world champion. He has a vibrant name in his division and his personality is refreshing. He’s very popular and a fighter on his way.”

The 28-year-old Fulgham, a former USA amateur heavyweight champion, has successfully transitioned into a super middleweight, where he is ranked No. 5 by the WBA. A licensed nurse fighting out of Houston, Fulghum is climbing the ladder at a relatively rapid pace.

“I don’t train Darius,” Chua commented, “but I’ve watched all his fights since he was Zurdo’s sparring partner for his fight (Dmitry) Bivol. He’s talented, very good, and he has a bright future. He’s slightly behind ‘Scrappy’ as a pro and 168 (super middleweight) is deep with some tough fighters. By 2026, I think Darius will be ready to win a world title. I have a lot of respect for his coach, Darnell Pierce. We talk quite a bit. The sky’s the limit for Darius.”

Chua also trains another 3 PM fighter, Kareem “Supreme” Hackett (12-1, 6 KOs), the former WBA Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Champion from Toronto.

“Kareem slipped up a little bit in his last fight (only loss), but he has a bright future and all the skills to become world champion,” Chua pointed out. “Kareem dismantled (11-0) Clay Waterman on ProBox TV when he won the WBA Intercontinental title. In his next fight, Waterman lost a majority decision to Paulo Aokuso (8-0, 4 KOs), an undefeated fighter from Australia who was an Olympian. If Hackett is locked in, nobody in the light heavyweight division will beat him.”

Another member of the 3 PM stable is 22-year-old German super lightweight Simon “Saucy” Vollmer (6-0, 2 KOs), a four-time member of the German National Boxing Team. Vollmer trains at Churchill Boxing Club in Santa Monica (CA) under the guidance of head trainer Pedro Neme.

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LOS ANGELES (January 6, 2025) –- Unified World Cruiserweight Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs) has ideally positioned himself for mega-fights in 2025 with some of boxing’s brightest stars after his remarkable 2024 campaign, in which he added the World Boxing Organization (WBO) title to his World Boxing Association (WBA) crown this past November 16th with a masterful 12-round unanimous decision over defending WBO title holder Chris “The Gentleman” Billam-Smith (20-2, 13 KOs) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

In 2016, Ramirez became the first Mexican boxer to capture a super middleweight world title (WBO) and the gifted Mexican duplicated that unprecedented feat, albeit in a higher weight class, last March 30^th in against defending WBA Cruiserweight World titleholder Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (21-0, 14 KOs) in a dominant performance, winning 10 of 12 rounds on each of the three judges’ scorecards. Now, he is also the first Mexican to unify the world cruiserweight titles.

“Zurdo” should have been a 2024 Fighter of the Year candidate, at the very least, after winning two world titles in dominating fashion. He defeated a pair of world champions who entered the ring to fight him sporting a combined 47-1 (32 KOs) record and he won 18 of 24 total rounds. Neither defending champion was ever really in their fight with Ramirez, who used his entire arsenal to stymie Goulamirian, and after blasting Billam-Smith early in their fight, “Zurdo” cruised to victory leaving the tough Brit looking like he had been in a car crash.

“I’m excited to be in this position but the job is not done yet,” Ramires said. “My goal has always been to leave a legacy in this sport and I’m looking forward to becoming an undisputed champion this year. Many options have been presented to my team and I from Dorticos to Badou Jack and Jai Opetaia. We’ll just have to see what the future holds. Dorticos would be my WBA mandatory, Badou Jack is someone that’s been avoiding me since my super middleweight days, and Jai has a couple of the belts I want. It’s going to be a great 2025.”

Here’s a look at some of the options “Zurdo” has for 2025:

Jai Opetaia (26-0, 20 KOs) – The undefeated International Boxing Federation (IBF) World Cruiserweight Champion is scheduled to make a defense this week against David Nyika (10-0, 9 KOs). Assuming the heavy-handed Australian gets past Nyika, “Zurdo” vs. Opetia has all the makings of a classic Boxer vs. Puncher encounter. Clearly this is the most appealing cruiserweight matchup, especially if both fighters’ goal is to be the Undisputed King of the Cruiserweights.

Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs) – The gifted Ukrainian is the Unified World Heavyweight Champion heading into his rematch with former world champion Tyson Fury on December 21^st. Reports have Usyk seriously considering his return to the cruiserweight division, which he dominated from 2016 to 2018 before he moved up to fight as a relatively “small” heavyweight.

David Benavidez (29-0, 24 KOs) – The World Boxing Council (WBC) Interim Light Heavyweight Champion defends his title February 1^st against David Morrell. If the Phoenix native makes a successful title defense, he’s not going to get a shot at the winner of the February 22^nd Artur Beterbiev–Dmitry Bivol rematch until much later in 2025, if at all. Benavidez is already frustrated from waiting so long for his world light heavyweight title shot against Beterbiev or Bivol. His camp has mentioned the possibility of him moving up to the cruiserweight division, openly targeting “Zurdo.” Benavidez knows “Zurdo” and has trained at Ramirez’ gym, Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood, California.

Yuniel Dorticos (27-2, 25 KOs) – The WBA’s No. 1 mandatory challenger has fought only once in the past two years, last June in a tune-up fight, but the Cuban power puncher could be next if “Zurdo” decides to get his mandatory out of the way prior to fighting any of the aforementioned fighters.

If Ramirez’ immediate goal is to own all four major world cruiserweight crowns, eventually, he’ll need to capture the WBC title that has been held hostage by Noel Miklaelian (27-2, 12 KOs), reportedly due to issues with his promoter, Don King. Miklaelian has been named Champion in Recess and replaced as the WBC Champion by Badou Jack (28-3-3, 17 KOs), who had been the WBC Champion In Recess.

There’s always Jake Paul (11-1, 7 KOs), the You-Tuber and social media influencer who said after his win over Mike Tyson that he wants to fight for the world cruiserweight title in 2025. Paul represents a potential gold mine for “Zurdo” in a cash grab.  

Although “Zurdo” has repeatedly said that his immediate goal is to unify the world cruiserweight titles before moving up to bridgerweight and eventually heavyweight, however, unifying all four titles is an incredibly difficult task because of all the mandatory fights. If that’s the case, though, Ramirez also has the option to challenge WBA Bridgerweight Champion Muslim Gadhimagomedov or WBC titlist Kevin Lerena, whether it’s a one-and-done or not.

The 33-year-old “Zurdo” Ramirez is unquestionably in the driver’s seat having more options than a college quarterback running a high-octane RPO attack.

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 a new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.

RIYADH (NOVEMBER 14, 2024) – With only a few days left until Riyadh Season’s Latino Night presented by Golden Boy Promotions, a final press conference was hosted today to promote the inaugural November 16 show. WBA Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (46-1, 30 KOs) of Mazatlán, Mexico, will square off against WBO Cruiserweight World Champion Chris Billam-Smith (20-1, 13 KOs) of Bournemouth, United Kingdom, in a historic attempt to become the first Mexican-born fighter to unify the cruiserweight division. The world championship unification fight will be the first Riyadh Season event made available for fight fans to enjoy for free worldwide. DAZN will broadcast this blockbuster fight night for free globally, with a number of local broadcasters transmitting the event.

Also in action, former U.S. Olympian and Unified Champion Jose Ramirez (29-1, 18 KOs) of Avenal, Calif., will face undefeated title contender and current No.1 WBO-ranked Arnold Barboza Jr. (30-0, 11 KOs) of Los Angeles, Calif., in a 10-round super lightweight bout. Also on the card, the unstoppable knockout machine, William “El Camarón” Zepeda (31-0, 27 KOs) of San Mateo, Mexico, will challenge former American IBF World Champion Tevin “2X” Farmer (33-6-1, 8 KOs) of Philadelphia, Pa., in a 10-round lightweight fight for the interim WBC title.

The free DAZN show also features a special world championship unification fight for the WBO and WBA Minimumweight World Titles and the vacant Ring Magazine belt, as history-making Puerto Rican WBO Champion Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo (10-0, 7 KOs) takes on the longest-reigning WBA Minimumweight Champion Thammanoon “Knockout CP Freshmart” Niyomtrong (25-0, 9 KOs). This major minimumweight world championship fight has been slated for 12 rounds of action.

Plus, Parral, Mexico’s Oscar “La Migraña” Duarte (27-2-1, 22 KOs) will battle Botirzhon Akhmedov (10-3-0) of Russia in a 10-round super lightweight fight. Ziyad Almaayouf (6-0, 1 KO) of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia will face off against Juan Garcia (5-6) of Mexico City in the six-round welterweight opening bout.

This is what the fighters and promoter had to say today at their final press conference:

GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMÍREZ

“I’m happy to be here! I’m really excited for Saturday night. My team has prepared well for this fight. I think I will represent ‘Noche Latina’ very well. ¡Viva México! Watch me represent Mexico on Saturday. I’m ready for whatever he [Billam-Smith] brings to the table.”

“I’m eating better and I’m not killing myself [to make weight] in this division. I’m ready, I’m happy, I feel grateful to be here for this big opportunity and I’m ready to take it for myself and for Mexico.”

“I’ll show everyone that I’m ready for this division. I’m going to prove to myself and to everyone else on Saturday night that I’m ready to take the belt.”

“I need to throw a lot of punches. That’s it. I need to win every round [to beat Billam-Smith].”

CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH

“It’s an honor to be here on this stage, these are the fights and shows that are taking over the global audience. It’s amazing to be headlining this night, and while this night is supposed to be Zurdo’s, unfortunately I’m here to spoil the party again and I’ll be doing that Saturday night.”

“I know the level I’m at. There’s no offense taken [at being referred to as the underdog]. It gives me even more drive and he’ll be eating humble pie on Saturday night.”

“I want to fight the other champions, and we’ve tried to get in the ring and we weren’t able to do it. Obviously, Zurdo did, and I’ve followed Zurdo’s career for many years. He’s had a fantastic career and I know he’s a fighter’s fighter, who will take up any opportunity and take on any challenge. You want those fighters in your division when you’re a champion and looking for those other belts. I was really happy he won that fight and that we can get it on.”

“Yes, for sure [on his size and experience at the weight class being an advantage] but it’s what you do with the size. It’s no good to be big and strong, it’s about speed, skill, power, and the punch output that goes with that. That’s what I’m able to do and that’s why people can’t live with me in this division.”

JOSE RAMIREZ

“It’s an honor to see the country of Saudi Arabia find so much interest in Mexican culture. I’m ready for Saturday night. I’ve trained hard. I have amazing coaches in my corner. I feel ready for Saturday. It’s going to be a great fight. I’m going to go out there and do my best to show people that I’m the best 140 pounder in the world.”

ARNOLD BARBOZA JR.

“I’m very excited, we’ve trained real hard for this fight. This is my title shot. This fight has been important to me for a long time. We’re ready to go out there and have an all Mexican war in the ring.”

“We’ll do what we have to do to make a statement. Shout out to Jose Ramirez for taking this fight, I look forward to fighting him on Saturday.”

WILLIAM ZEPEDA

“I’m feeling incredibly motivated for this fight. My preparation has been intense and focused, and I’ve left no stone unturned to get myself in the best shape possible. I know my opponent is no walk in the park – he’s tough and experienced, and I respect that. But we’ve crafted a strong, smart strategy for Saturday, and I’m ready to execute it.”

“Saturday night is shaping up to be a fantastic event. We have an amazing card full of talented, experienced fighters, each bringing something special to the ring. I’m looking forward to putting on a show and delivering an unforgettable performance. My goal is to offer the people of Saudi Arabia a night of boxing they’ll remember, with all the passion, skill, and excitement this sport has to offer.”

TEVIN FARMER

“Saturday night is going to be a show that nobody will want to miss. They say that William Zepeda is the best in the 135 pound division, which I agree, but you can’t be a top dog unless you beat the top dog. Saturday night he’ll have his hands full with Tevin Farmer.”

“I’ve been on social media and I’ve seen Golden Boy and Eddie Hearn promoting this 5v5 with Zepeda vs Shakur, but I feel like that’s crazy when [Zepeda] has a guy like Tevin Former in front of him. You never put the cart before the horse, and I think it’s a bad move because once I beat [Zepeda] Saturday night I don’t know who they’re going to have for Shakur. November 16, tune in. Your boy Tevin Farmer is back. I’m going to show you all how the USA does it.”

OSCAR COLLAZO

“I’m ready for Saturday. I’ve been waiting for a challenge like this since I started my career. I welcome every challenge that is put in front of me, but this one in particular, because it’s historic.”

“Since 1999, the people of Puerto Rico haven’t had a champion like this. The last one was Felix ‘Tito’ Trinidad. I want to make history. I want to get this for my people, for my family, to make Puerto Rico proud.”

“I feel honored to be representing my land of Puerto Rico in Noche Latina. I’m going to make them proud. It’ll be a memorable night.”

OSCAR DUARTE

“Batyr [Akhmedov] is a great fighter, I’m not going to take that away from him. I respect him. But I’m also a very good fighter and I had a great camp in California. I’m going to get the win on Saturday night. I’m going to leave my heart in the ring.”

“I’m proud to be representing Mexico in this amazing display of Latino boxing. I’m fighting for my people on Saturday night.”

BATYR AKHMEDOV

“I have a very strong opponent and I believe it should be a very good fight. I expect this fight will be the fight of the night and I want to invite my Muslim brothers to come to this fight and support me.”

ZIYAD ALMAAYOUF

“I’ve chosen this career to empower, to motivate, to inspire young dreamers. After everything that I’ve gone through and been through, I do it all for them. On Saturday night you will see something magical. I expect it to be tough, but this path has always been tough. It’s been hard, but the harder the path, the higher the calling. One day I will be Saudi Arabia’s first world champion. God willing, I will make this happen.”

JUAN GARCIA

“I hope to put on a great show for the fans here in Saudi Arabia. I have a good opponent in front of me. I’ve prepared well and I’m not going to make it easier for him. He better be ready.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA

“We strongly feel that these fighters you see here Saturday night will fight with a lot of passion, utilizing the latino style of boxing. The Mexican style of boxing. There’s something about this card that will bring out the best in every single fighter out here. When Golden Boy Promotions put this card together, we were thinking about making sure every single fight is a main event style fight, evenly matched, tough fights for both sides. We don’t know who’s going to win, only they know. One thing we know is they will fight with a lot of passion, and that’s what this card is all about. That Latino flavor. If it wasn’t for His Excellency, this card would not be possible. He’s facilitating for the whole world to watch for free.”

BEN SHALOM

“Wow, this feels so surreal. When I met Chris Billam-Smith, the dream was to get out of Bournemouth; let’s get on our way to a world title. And, wow, the journey has only gotten better and better and better. I want to thank Riyadh Season, it is great to be back in the Kingdom where boxing dream are made now.”

“Golden Boy have put on an incredible card. But for me, this is the best boxing card fans can have access to for free. It shows a huge commitment to the sport.”

“What makes me laugh is all this talk from the U.S. media – we have had it our whole career – that somehow Billam-Smith is the underdog and it’s somehow a mismatch. Chris Billam-Smith has been an underdog his whole life and every time he is put down, every time he comes through. There is going to be a lot of people embarrassed on Sunday morning, I can promise you.”

RIYADH, Saudia Arabia (November 12, 2024) –- World Boxing Association (WBA) Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (46-1, 30 KOs) confidently puts his title belt on the line this Saturday in an intriguing unification fight against World Boxing Organization (WBO) Champion Chris “The Gentleman” Billam-Smith (20-1, 13 KOs), headlining the inaugural “Latino Night” in the 12-round main event as part of Riyadh Season, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Ramirez vs. Smith-Billam will be streamed live on DAZN as well as broadcast for free on several television networks around the world.

No shade, all respect is what Ramirez has for his British opponent, Billam-Smith.

“Chris Billam-Smith is a World Champion for a reason,” Ramirez said. “He brings a well-rounded mix of power, resilience and technical skill into the ring. His physical strength is a key weapon, allowing him to break-down opponents with heavy body shots and powerful punches. Technically, Billam-Smith uses his jab and footwork effectively to control the pace and distance of the fight, often dictating the action. His stamina is another strong asset, enabling him to sustain pressure throughout the later rounds.

“I expect a tough, challenging fight against him. He has a lot of heart in the ring. I know he brings his best every time, and I don’t take anything for granted. I’ve prepared for a hard battle, and I respect what he brings as a fighter.”

Ramirez is 7-1 in world title fights, Smith-Billam is 3-0. They’ve fought no common opponents.

Since he moved up to fight in the cruiserweight division only 13 months ago, “Zurdo” has made it known that his ultimate goal in boxing is to unify the world cruiserweight titles, if possible, before moving up again in weight.

“My main focus is to become the Undisputed World Cruiserweight Champion before moving up again,” he explained. “Before the heavyweight division, though, I’d also like to get the Bridgerweight belt. But Saturday’s fight has a lot on the line and it’s going to be very challenging. Chris Billam-Smith has all my respect, and I expect him to bring his best that night. I’ve prepared for war and will leave everything I have in the ring to have my hand raised in victory.”

Fighting out of Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico, Zurdo was the first Mexican to capture the world super middleweight title in 2016, and he duplicated that achievement last March, dethroning previously undefeated WBA Cruiserweight World Champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (27-1, 19 KOs) in Inglewood, California. Unifying the World Cruiserweight title would be another Mexican boxing first for “Zurdo” Ramirez.

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 company led by 2-time World Champion, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. Zurdo Promotions strives to be the best in all areas to set a new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA (November 11, 2024) – Chris Billam-Smith‘s world cruiserweight title unification fight with Gilberto Ramirez this Saturday is live on Sky Sports.

BOXXER’s Billam-Smith, the WBO champion, takes on WBA titlist Ramirez in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in a hugely significant fight for the weight division, with live coverage from 5pm on Sky Sports Mix.

“Zurdo” Ramirez is a formidable opponent. He was the first Mexican to become a super-middleweight and cruiserweight world champion and is looking to take over the 200lb division.

He has only lost once in his career, to great light-heavyweight Dmitry Bivol. But Billam-Smith is in a rich vein of form himself. Most recently he avenged his only previous loss in a successful world title defence against Richard Riakporhe. That was Billam-Smith’s third consecutive victory in a world championship contest.

“It’s an exciting unification fight against someone who has only been beaten by Bivol,” Billam-Smith said. “It’s a very hard test and it would be an honour for me to become unified champion.”

Ramirez said: “I’m excited to make this fight happen with Chris Billam-Smith. It’s been a long time coming, and I’m looking forward to becoming the unified champion in this division.

“I’ve always said this was my division and I’m happy for the opportunity to showcase my skills at this level on a global stage in Riyadh.

“It’s truly an honour to be a Mexican warrior and to showcase what true Mexican boxing is all about while bringing my culture to a global audience.”

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “It’s great news for fight fans that Chris Billam-Smith’s historic clash with Gilberto Ramirez is now available to watch live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland.

“We’re delighted to be working with His Excellency Turki Alalshikh and Oscar De La Hoya to stage this epic world title unification. Riyadh Season is all about bringing the best together, and on Saturday, we have two champions at the height of their powers ready to go toe-to-toe and lay it all on the line.”

Chris Billam-Smith vs Gilberto Ramirez is a co-promotion between BOXXER and Golden Boy. The hotly anticipated cruiserweight world title unification tops ‘Latino Night’, an unmissable night of action bringing together top names in the world of boxing as part of Riyadh Season.

LOS ANGELES (October 30, 2024) – Former pro heavyweight contender Malik Scott has successfully transitioned from fighter to trainer, and he will be working the corner of reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (46-1, 30 KOs) for his November 16th unification fight with World Boxing Organization (WBO) titleholder Chris “The Gentleman” Billam-Smith (20-1, 13 KOs) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The 44-year-old Scott, who will assist Ramirez’ head trainer Julian Chua, passionately believes that not only will Ramirez defeat Smith, but Zurdo is the No. 1 cruiserweight in the world as well. Scott was Ramirez’ head trainer when Chua was unavailable for Ramirez’ debut as a cruiserweight (October 7, 2023), in which he defeated former world light heavyweight champion Joe Smith, Jr. (28-4) in a dominant performance by way of a 10-round unanimous decision, winning all but one round on all three of the judges’ scorecards.

Scott and Chua are “in house” trainers at the state-of-the-art Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood, California.

“Julian is one of the brightest trainers in boxing,” Scott said. “I enjoy learning from him. I had Zurdo for his fight with Joe Smith and he had a good performance. I really enjoy working with him. No disrespect to Smith-Billam, but this fight is a mismatch. Zurdo is a big, strong southpaw who has fought a higher level of opponents than Smith-Billam. Zurdo is a good body puncher who throws punches from incredible angles, and he has an incredible boxing mind. Smith-Billam is big, strong and he keeps coming forward, but he is a one-trick pony. He does have a good trainer (Shane McGuigan), but I think Zurdo takes over in the second half of the fight. And Zurdo has a Dream Team in his corner. I think he will become the undisputed world champion and only Jay Opetaia can give him a fight.”

A product of the fighting city of Philadelphia, Scott was a decorated U.S. amateur boxer (70-3), highlighted by his gold-medal performance at the 1999 National AAU Championships. He went on to have a solid 15-year professional career, which ended in 2016 with a 38-3-1 (13 KOs) record.

Scott has always studied the sport of boxing and gives it his all every day. There’s no idol worshipping for him, and he takes pride in teaching young boxers.

“A great trainer teaches boxers the why’s and how’s,” Scott explained. “A good trainer just gives instructions. I believe in teaching for a good reason. I study fighters, their styles, and habits, and I go as far as studying the opponent’s corner to learn how they work during a fight. I think everybody working corners should be mic-ed up. I’m confident and want people to hear my advice.”

Scott learned from Fred Jenkins back in Philadelphia and he has studied other trainers such as Barry Robinson, Joe Goossen, and Emanuel Steward, among others. Scott was head trainer for Deantay Wilder for his third fight with Tyson Fury. In addition to assisting Chua with Zurdo, they also team, respectively, as head and assistant trainers of world super flyweight title challenger John “Scrappy” Ramirez (13-1, 9 KOs). They aren’t related but Zurdo is like a big brother and role model for “Scrappy.”

“’Scrappy’ is going to be world champion,” Scott predicted. “His day is coming!”

Malik Scott is literally and figuratively in Zurdo Ramirez’ corner.

LOS ANGELES (October 28, 2024) –- Reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (46-21, 30 KOs) is extremely proud to headline the inaugural “Latino Night” as part of Riyadh Season against World Boxing Organization (WBO) title holder Chris “The Gentleman” Billam-Smith (20-1, 13 KOs) on November 16^th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Ramirez vs. Smith-Billam will be streamed live on DAZN as well as broadcast for free on several television networks around the world.

Fighting out of Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico, Zurdo was the first Mexican to capture the world super middleweight title in 2016, and he repeated that feat in the cruiserweight title last March, capturing the 200-pound division’s crown by dethroning previously undefeated WBA Cruiserweight World Champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (27-1, 19 KOs) in Inglewood, California.

“Headlining “Latino Night” is a huge honor for me,” Ramirez said. “It’s a special opportunity to connect with the Latino community and celebrate such as rich culture through my performance. The energy, passion, and pride that come with events like this are something I’m really excited about. What makes it even more special is the chance to blend and cross cultures, especially with Saudi Arabia, where I’ve also drawn a lot of inspiration. Bringing together these vibrant traditions creates a unique experience, and I’m proud to represent both sides on a night like this. And hopefully in the near future, the Excellency can visit my hometown, Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico.

“I’m incredibly excited about what Turki Alalshikh and Riyadh Season are doing for boxing. It’s amazing to see the sport growing globally, and the level of support and passion they’re bringing to the table is inspiring. The opportunities they’re creating for fighters and fans alike are huge, and I’m really optimistic about what the future holds, It’s a great time to be involved in boxing, and I’m thrilled to be part of this exciting movement.

“I’m really excited about this show being on free TV because it gives me the chance to reach an even bigger audience worldwide. It’s an amazing opportunity for more people to see my journey and connect with what I do in the ring, The exposure is huge, and it’s motivating to know that people from all over the world will be turning in. I’m grateful for the platform and I’m ready to put on a show for everyone watching.”

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 company led by 2-time 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.

RIYADH & LOS ANGELES (September 10, 2024) – Riyadh Season and Golden Boy Promotions, one of the leading boxing promotional companies owned by six-division, 10-time World Champion and Hall of Famer Oscar De La Hoya, announced today an inaugural show that is part of their overall partnership. The event, “Latino Night,” will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on November 16 with the main event co-promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and BOXXER.

Scheduled to be one of the biggest celebrations of Latino boxing talent, “Latino Night” will see the history-making WBA Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (46-1, 30 KOs) of Mazatlán, Mexico in hot pursuit of becoming undisputed in the division. His first step will be challenging WBO Cruiserweight World Champion Chris Billam-Smith (20-1, 13 KOs) of Bournemouth, United Kingdom who is coming off the heels of three straight title defenses. The main event is presented by Golden Boy in co-promotion with BOXXER.

Ramirez left his mark in the sport as the first Mexican to become a super middleweight and cruiserweight world champion and will be looking to take over the cruiserweight division. Billam-Smith is an English professional boxer who has held the World Boxing Organization cruiserweight title since 2023 and has held the European, British, and Commonwealth cruiserweight titles between 2019 and 2022.

The card will feature Golden Boy’s world championship title holders and contenders who are on the cusp of tasting world championship glory. In the co-main event, former U.S. Olympian and Unified Champion Jose Ramirez (29-1, 18 KOs) of Fresno, California will face the dangerous undefeated title contender and currently No.1 WBO-ranked Arnold Barboza Jr. (30-0, 11 KOs) of Los Angeles, California in a 12-round WBO Super Lightweight World Title Eliminator Fight.

Also on the card, the unstoppable knockout machine, William “El Camarón” Zepeda (31-0, 27 KOs) of San Mateo Atenco, Mexico will challenge former American IBF World Champion Tevin “2X” Farmer (33-6-1, 8 KOs) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in a 10-round lightweight fight. In association with Miguel Cotto Promotions and defending his WBO Minimumweight World Championship for the fourth time, the history-making Puerto Rican Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo (10-0, 7 KOs) of Villalba, Puerto Rico will measure up against Queretaro, Mexico’s Edwin “Canito” Hernandez (13-2-1, 4 KOs) in a 12-round world title bout. Opening the historic show with a 12-round WBA Super Lightweight Eliminator fight, Chihuahua, Mexico’s Oscar “La Migraña” Duarte (27-2-1, 22 KOs) will face No.1 WBA-ranked Kenneth “Bossman” Sims Jr. (21-2-1, 8 KOs) of Chicago, Illinois.

His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, said: “We are looking forward to staging our first event as part of our partnership with Golden Boy Promotions with Latino Night. This card features some of the best Latino fighters around and continues our drive to deliver top-tier boxing events by giving fans throughout the world the fights they want to see.”

Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, said: “His excellency and I have the exact same vision — to match the best versus the best for the fans of our sport. From a world championship unification fight, to battles between former champions and on-the-rise contenders to a stacked undercard of prospects, this show will feature everything great that boxing has to offer.”

Ben Shalom, Founder and CEO of BOXXER, said: “Riyadh Season continues to deliver the very best matches at the top of the sport, and we are delighted to be working with His Excellency Turki Alalshikh and Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions to present another epic fight as co-promoters of this huge cruiserweight world title unification battle. Gilberto Ramirez is a great champion but Chris Billam-Smith will be coming full of confidence and ready to unify the division.”

Philip Button, Chief Business Officer at Golden Boy Promotions, said: “We are excited to partner with Riyadh Season to promote Latino Night and further expand Golden Boy’s business globally.”

Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, WBA Cruiserweight World Champion, said: “I’m excited to make this fight happen with Chris Billam-Smith. It’s been a long time coming, and I’m looking forward to becoming the unified champion in this division. I’ve always said this was my division (Cruiserweight), and I’m happy for the opportunity to showcase my skills at this level on a global stage in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It’s truly an honor to be a Mexican warrior and to showcase what true Mexican boxing is all about while bringing my culture to a global audience. Additionally, I hope to be the bridge between Mexico and Saudi Arabia, making both sides proud. I would like to give a special thanks to my team, 3 Point Management, Golden Boy Promotions, Riyadh Season, the WBA, WBO, and everyone else involved in making this happen.”

HE Turki Alalshikh has also confirmed that Latino Night will be broadcast for free globally. Further details of where you can watch this card will follow.

Riyadh Season brings together world-class art, music, food, theater and sporting events to the capital of Saudi Arabia for an unparalleled winter entertainment experience.

The World Boxing Association (WBA) Championships Committee has called for the Purse bid to grant the promotional right of the cruiserweight championship bout between Gilberto Ramirez and Yuniel Dorticos, which will take place in Houston, Texas, on August 27th. 

On Friday the communication was sent to both fighters’ teams through official channels. The purse bid will be conducted by the Vice Chairman of the committee, Julio Thyme while the time determined is 11:00 a.m. (local time). 

The minimum amount to obtain the rights to the fight is US 200,000.00 and the purse split will be 75% for the champion Ramirez and 25% for the challenger Dorticos. 

On the same day, the purse bid for the bridgerweight world title fight between Muslim Gadzhimagomedov and Leon Harth will be held.

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