Alexis Rocha won a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Santiago Dominguez in a welterweight bout at the Fantasy Springs Resort in Indio, California.

The fight featured some solid exchanges with Rocha getting the best of the majority of them.

Rocha landed 184 of 549 punches. Dominguez was 89 of 459.

Rocha, 146.4 lbs of Santa Ana, CA won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 25-2. Dominguez, 146.9 lbs of Sonora, MEX is 27-1.

“I wanted to show everyone that I’m not just a banger, I can use my IQ in there and that’s what I needed,” said Alexis Rocha. “I knew Dominguez was going to come forward, he just keeps coming, so that’s what I wanted to show. It’s more about my brains from now on. I want to be very aware in the ring, and I want to use my brains. That’s all you’re going to see moving forward. I have a great team behind me, Golden Boy, and we’re just going to see what’s next. I’m right there. I’m knocking on the door still. The belts are gonna be open anytime soon, so I’m just knocking on the door right now.

Gregory Morales won a 10-round unanimous decision over Jayvon Garnett in a super featherweight bout.

Morales landed 143 of 742 punches. Garnett was 73 of 357.

Morales, 127 lbs of San Antonio won by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 96-94 and is now 17-1. Garnett, 126 lbs of Cincinnati is 10-2.

“I feel amazing. I feel like there’s room for improvement, it was my first 10-rounds,” said Gregory Morales. “There’s only room for improvement from here on out. I learned the pace of the fight. I learned to pick it up, slow it down. I learned that I can do a full 10 rounds.”

Grant Flores remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Juan Meza in a four-round super welterweight fight.

In round two, Flores landed a huge right that rocked Meza into into the ropes. Flores then landed about 15 unanswered blows and Meza was stopped on his feet at 1:54.

Flores, 151.4 lbs of Coachella, CA is 6-0 with five knockouts. Meza, 151 lbs of Los Angeles is 4-6.

Jorge Chavez remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Riku Kitani in a featherweight bout.

Chavez landed 78 of 312 punches. Kitani was 33 of 196.

Chavez, 125.8 lbs of Tijuana, MEX won by scores of 60-54 om all cards and is now 12-0. Kitani, 125.2 lbs of Mexico City is 8-3,

Bryan Lua stopped veteran Diuhl Olguin in round five of their six-round lightweight bout.

Lua dominated the action featuring thudding body punches and beat Olguin down until a referee stoppage at 2:03.

Lua, 133 lbs of Indio, CA is 10-0 with five knockouts. Olguin, 130 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 16-39-7.

Jesus Perez scored a split decision over former world champion Joseph Diaz via 10-round split decision in a spirited super lightweight bout at the Commerce Hotel and Casino in Commerce, California,

In round five, Diaz was deducted a point for shoving Perez.

Perez landed 137 of 804 punches. Diaz was 188 of 471.

Perez won two cards 96-94 and a ridiculous 99-90 while Diaz won a card 95-94.

Perez, 138.2 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 25-5. Diaz, 137.6 lbs of South El Monte, CA is 33-5-1.

“The work was shown tonight,” said Jesus Perez. “I – like all fighters – had to push through difficult times, but we were able to push through to be able to get the victory tonight. My ultimate respect to JoJo Diaz, he is a warrior. I thought because he was the favorite, that he was going to win this close fight, but we didn’t stop and we fought for our dreams to come true.”

“I won the fight. This is getting unfair now!” said Joseph “JoJo” Diaz, Jr. “I train so hard for my fans. Thank you all!”

Eric Tudor won a eight-round unanimous decision over Luis Ramos in a super welterweight bout.

Tudor, 153,2 lbs of Fort Lauderdale, FL won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 10-1. Ramos, 153.9 lbs of Trujillo Alto, PR is 6-3-1.

Despite being knocked down, Jorge Chavez won a six-round unanimous decision over veteran Diuhl Olguin in a featherweight bout.

In round one, Olguin dropped Chavez with a jab to the upper body. That was the only blemish for Chavez as he won by (somehow) 60-54 and 58-55 twice.

Chavez, 123.6 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 10-0. Olguin, 124 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 16-35-7.

In a battle of undefeated lightweights, Joshua Garcia stopped Eric Lozada in the opening round of their four-round lightweight bout.

In round one, Garcia landed a vicious right to chin and Lozado was sent hard to the canvas and the fight was stopped at

Garcia, 131.2 lbs of Moreno Valley, CA is 7-0 with four knockouts. Lozada, 130.8 lbs of Los Angeles is 1-1-1.

Sash Tudor and Josias Gonzalez battled to a four-round draw in a middleweight bout.

Each fighter won a card 39-37 and a third card was even at 38-38.

Tudor, 159 lbs of Fort Lauderdale, FL was making his pro debut. Gonzalez, 153.8 lbs of Jalisco, MEX is 2-2-1.

Jose Sanchez won a 10-round unanimous decision over Walter Santibanes in a action filled super bantamweight bout at the Fantasy Springs Resort in Indio, California.

Sanchez, 124.4 lbs of Cathedral City, CA won by scores of 99-91 twice and 98-92 and is now 12-0. Santibanes, 124.5 lbs of Phoenix, AZ is now 12-3.

“I want to thank Golden Boy and Miguel Cotto Promotions for giving me the opportunity to fight for the first time in front of my hometown as the main event,” said Tito Sanchez. “This was a real war. The crowd’s cheers kept me going through the tough times, and with them having my back, I was able to push through and get the victory. My right middle knuckle was severely injured in the third round, but I made it 10-rounds with the Coachella Valley’s support.

Eric Priest remained undefeated with a first round stoppage over Paul Mendez in a eight-round middleweight out.

In round one, Priest dumped Mendez with a hard right hand. Mendez was hurt throughout the round and landed a huge flurry of punches that forced a referee stoppage at 2:09.

Priest, 161.4 lbs of Kansas City, KS is now 12-0 with eight knockouts. Mendez, 160 lbs of Delano, CA is 21-5-2.

“After my last fight, I made a lot of adjustments and I believe that’s what helped me get the knockout tonight,” said Eric Priest. “Training with Ismael Salas in Las Vegas has been great for my career – I have been able to rub elbows with top level fighters as well as current and former world champions who help me improve my craft. My message to the middleweight division is that if you didn’t know me before, you’ll know me now.”

Jorge Chavez remained undefeated by stopping Jerson Ortiz after round two of their eight-round super bantamweight bout.

In round one, Chavez dropped Ortiz with a flurry in the corner. Chavez continued to punish Ortiz, and the fight was stopped in the corner after round two,

Chavez, 123.6 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 9-0 with seven knockouts. Ortiz, 123.8 lbs of Managua, NIC is 17-10.

Ricardo Ruvalcaba remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Irvin Macias in a welterweight fight.

In round five, Macias began to bleed from the nose.

Ruvalcaba, 141.6 lbs of Ventura, CA won by scores of 80-72 twice and 78-74 and is now 11-0-1. Macias, 142 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 15-4.

Justin Figueroa remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage over Jerome Clayton in a four-round junior middleweight bout.

In round two, Fugueroa dropped Clayton with an overhand right to the top of the head. Late in the round Figueroa scored a knockdown on a right to the body.

In round three, Figueroa dropped Clayton with a straight right to the face. Figueroa ended things when he dropped Clayton with another body shot at 1:58.

Figueroa, 153.4 lbs of Atlantic City, NJ is 7-0 with six knockouts. Clayton, 154 lbs of New Orleans is 9-3-1.

Raul Curiel remained undefeated by stopping Courtney Pennington in the final round of their 10-round welterweight bout at The Fantasy Springs Casino Resort in Indio, California.

Curiel won just about all of the rounds and landed a flurry in the corner that did not seem to have Pennington in that much trouble, but the referee stopped the bout at 2:53.

Curiel. 147 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 13-0 with 11 knockouts. Pennington, 146 lbs of Brooklyn, NY is 17-7-3.

“He is truly a warrior with tremendous experience. I threw everything at my disposal, and he took it all,” said Raul Curiel. “I took my time in the ring and we got the victory we trained hard for. This fight helped shake off some of the cobwebs after not being inside the ring for more than half a year, so I am proud of the work I did in there and learned a lot.”

Manny Flores stopped Jerson Ortiz in round two of a scheduled 10-round super bantamweight bout.

In round one, Flores dropped Ortiz with an uppercut. Later in the round it was a little right hook on the inside. In round two, Flores was aggressive and landed a big flurry that was finished off with a left hand that put Ortiz down for a third and final time at 50 seconds.

Flores, 120 lbs of Coachella, CA is 16-1 with 12 knockouts. Ortiz, 119.8 lbs of Managua, NIC is 17-8.

“I showed everyone the REAL ‘Gucci Manny’ tonight. This is the real me,” said Manuel Flores. “I showed that when I’m disciplined and work hard no one can beat me. We put in the miles and the rounds in for this fight. I expected my opponent to come forward a little more, but I’m glad we got the win.”

Grant Flores remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Jaleik Bogle in a super welterweight bout.

In round five, Flores sent Bogle down with a right hand.

Flores landed 140 of 339 punches. Bogles was 48 of 220.

Flores, 151 lbs of Coachella, CA won by scores of 60-53 on all cards is now 3-0. Bogle, 151 lbs of Tampa, FL is 4-2-2.

Daniel Luna remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Alexander Gutierrez in a scheduled four-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Luna dropped Gutierrez with a left to the body. Gutierrez tried to get up but went back to his knee and the fight was over at 1:53.

Luna, 134 lbs of Victorville, CA is 3-0 with three knockouts. Gutierrez, 129.8 lbs of Lake Elsinore, CA is 0-3.

Jorge Chavez remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage of veteran Marvin Solano in a scheduled six-round featherweight bout.

In the final seconds of round three, Chavez hurt Solano with a left hook and sent him down with a chopping right hand. Solano did not beat the count at 2:59.

Chavez, 123.8 lbs of San Diego is 8-0 with six knockouts. Solano, 122.2 lbs of Managua, NIC is 24-11.

Jorge Chavez stopped Alberto Nieves in round five of their scheduled six-round featherweight contest.

In round five, Chavez dropped Nieves with a hard right to the body. Chavez went right back to the same area that put Nieves down again and the fight was stopped at 1:34.

Chavez, 125.2 lbs of San Diego, CA is 6-0 with five knockouts. Nieves, 125.2 lbs of Aguadilla, PR is 4-3-1.

Grant Flores needed just 51 seconds to take out Terrance Jarmon in their scheduled four-round super welterweight fight.

In round one, Flores put Jarmon down with a hard flurry and he did not get up at the count of 10.

Flores, 150.8 lbs of Coachella, CA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Jarmon, 152.9 lbs of Atlanta, GA is 3-4.

Daniel Garcia remained undefeated by stopping Aldimar Silva in round two of their four-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Garcia dropped Silva with a left hook to the body and the fight was waved off at 2:14.

Garcia, 130.6 lbs of Westminster, CA is now 5-0 with four knockouts. Silva, 129.4 lbs of Sao Paulo, BRA is 22-23.

Leonardo Sanchez remained undefeated with a second round stoppage over Mychaquell Shields in a four-round super featherweight bout.

In round one, Sanchez was bleeding from his nose. In round two, Shields was deducted a point for holding. Later in the round, Sanchez dumped Shields on the canvas with a left hook and the bout was stopped at 2:33.

Sanchez, 129.6 lbs of Cathedral City, CA is 4-0 with three knockouts. Shields, 130 lbs of San Diego, CA is 0-2.

INDIO, CA (April 4, 2023) – The fight card has been finalized for Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN scheduled to return on Thursday, April 6 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. The event will feature former World Champion Angel “Tito” Acosta (23-3, 22 KOs) of San Juan, Puerto Rico measuring up against Caracas, Venezuela’s Angelino “Huracán” Cordova (17-0-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round flyweight bout. The action will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m

Tickets for Acosta vs. Cordova are still on sale for $65, $55, $45, $35 and $25 plus applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased at FantasySpringsResort.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com. 

In the co-main event, San Diego’s Jorge “El Niño Dorado” Chavez (5-0, 4 KOs) will participate in a six-round featherweight fight against Alberto “Pupo” Nieves (4-2-1, 2 KOs) of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. Chavez is returning to the ring after a stellar first-round knockout win against Bryan Perez on March 18 that saw Perez almost fly through the ropes. 

On the DAZN broadcast and in a four-round super welterweight fight, Coachella’s Grant Flores (1-0, 1 KO) will face Juan Herrera (0-1-1) of Tijuana, Mexico. Flores made a grand entrance in February with a phenomenal knockout victory in his hometown, and will be looking to impress yet again against Herrera. Daniel “Junebug” Garcia (4-0, 3 KOs) of Westminster, Colorado will return to the ring in a four-round super featherweight fight against Sao Paulo, Brazil’s Aldimar Silva (22-22, 14 KOs).

Opening up the DAZN broadcast, Cathedral City’s Leonardo “Bazooka” Sanchez (3-0, 2 KOs) will be matched up against Mychaquell Shields (0-1) of Alpine in a four-round super featherweight fight. Kicking off fight night, Victorville’s Daniel Luna (1-0, 1 KO) will be looking to add another impressive win in a scheduled four-round lightweight fight against Tipitapa, Nicaragua’s Giovanni Gutierrez (11-4-1, 6 KOs). 

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Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN is presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and 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 #GBFightNight

William Zepeda won a 12-round unanimous decision over Joseph Diaz Jr. in a super lightweight bout at The Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California,

Zepeda, 137 lbs of San Mateo Atenco, MEX won by scores of 119-109 twice and 118-110 and is now 27-0. Diaz, 137.6 lbs of South El Monte, CA is 20-2.

Alexis Rocha pounded out a 10-round unanimous decision over Jesus Perez in a welterweight fight.

Rocha, 146.7 lbs of Santa Ana, CA won by scores of 100-89, 100-90 and 99-91 and is now 21-1. Perez, 146.8 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 24-4.

Arely Mucino won the IBF Flyweight world title with a 10-round split decision over defending undefeated champion Leonelo Yudica.

In round four, Yudica had some swelling on her forehead.

Mucino won by scores of 97-93 and 96-94, while Yudica took a card a 96-94.

Mucino, 112 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 32-3-2. Yudica, 111.4 lbs of Chomba, ARG is 17-1-3.

In a battle of undefeated super bantamweights, Hector Valdez Jr. won a controversial 10-round split decision over Max Ornelas.

Valdez, 121.4 lbs of Dallas, TX won by scores of 97-93 on two cards, while Ornelas won a card 97-93.

Valdez is 16-0. Ornelas, 120.6 lbs of Las Vegas is 15-1-1.

Jorge Chavez remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Adrian Leyva in a super featherweight bout.

30 seconds into the fight, Leyva dropped Chavez with a hard right hand. Later in the round, Chavez evened up the round by sending Leyva to the canvas with a big right of his own.

Chavez, 127.2 lbs of San Diego won by scores of 60-57, 59-55 and 58-56 and is now 4-0. Leyva, 127.4 lbs of Houston is 3-4-1.

Japhetlee Llamido stopped Pablo Cruz in the opening round of their eight-round super featherweight bout.

Llamido jumped on Cruz and landed a big flurry of punches on the ropes and the bout was stopped at 1:36,128 lbs of Houston, TX is 22-6-1.

Llamido, 126.2 lbs of Long Beach, CA is 10-0 with four knockouts. Cruz,

Jan Salvatierra won a four-round unanimous decision over Robert Ledesma in a flyweight bout.

Salvatierra, 111.4 lbs of Los Cabos, MEX won by scores of 38-37 on all cards and is now 9-2. Ledesma, 111 lbs of San Antonio, TX is 3-9/

Asa Stevens remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Mychaquell Shields in a featherweight bout.

In round two, Stevens dropped Shields with a straight left.

Stevens, 122.6 lbs of Waimae, HI won by scores of 40-35 on all cards and is now 3-0. Shields, 122.8 lbs of San Diego was making his pro debut.

SAN DIEGO, CA (Oct. 6, 2022) – Former IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz, Jr. (32-2-1, 15 KOs) hosted a media workout at the BXNG CLUB in San Diego for his upcoming 12-round crossroads fight against undefeated, rising lightweight division star William “El Camarón” Zepeda (26-0, 23 KOs). The fight is set to take place at the Pechanga Arena San Diego on Saturday, Oct. 29 on DAZN.

Also participating in the media workout were Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda undercard fighters. Newly announced co-main event, Alexis “Lex” Rocha (20-1, 13 KOs) will defend his NABO Welterweight title against hungry challenger from Tijuana, Mexico, Jesus “Ricky” Perez (24-3, 18 KOs) in a 10-round fight. Monterrey, Mexico’s Arely Mucino (31-3-2, 11 KOs) will challenge Chimba, Argentina’s World Champion Leonela Yudica (17-0-3) for the IBF Female World Title in a 10-round match. Jorge “El Niño” Chávez (3-0, 3 KOs) will participate in a six-round super featherweight fight against Houston, Texas’s Adrian Leyva (3-3-2, 1 KO).

Here’s what the fighters had to say:
JOSEPH “JOJO” DIAZ, FORMER IBF SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPION:
“It gives me goosebumps while here in San Diego knowing that I am going to fight here soon in a couple of weeks. We are three weeks out, and I’m ready and excited.”

“It’s going to be a great night of fights. I know my opponent (William Zepeda) is going to bring his all. But I am ready to execute and do what I do best.”

“I am 150% confident that my hand will be raised after that bell rings. My training and preparation will make sure of that.”

ALEXIS “LEX” ROCHA, NABO WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION:
“I’m feeling really good. Training hard, staying focused on my fight. I’m continuing to make all the sacrifices to stay at the top of my game come October 29.”

“I know my opponent will come in very determined, and very motivated to win because he’s got a big stage – the Golden Boy stage – to come and perform on and try to steal the show and upset my plans. That doesn’t sit well with me – he’s going to try to come and take away everything that I’ve worked hard for.”

JESUS “RICKY” PEREZ, WELTERWEIGHT FIGHTER:
“This is a fight that we were destined to fight in. We have prepared very hard for this fight. Everyone will see the results from our preparation come fight night. I hope that fans get to see a big performance from the both of us. I feel very proud to represent the people of Tijuana and San Diego since I train here. I am going to feel right at home. This isn’t the first time I am the underdog, and I’ve given my fair share of surprises as the b-side.”

ARELY MUCINO, FEMALE FLYWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“I am excited and filled with so much enthusiasm and adrenaline now that we are three weeks out. Leonela is a great champion and has successfully defended her title many times. Knowing that, we expect for this to be a tough fight because she is a tremendous fighter. But we also know our great potential and it’s not the first time I’m going into the ring without a title in my hands. God has been very good to place the right people in my life at the right time and I feel prepared with this great team behind me.”

JORGE “EL NIÑO DORADO” CHAVEZ, SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT PROSPECT:
“This camp was definitely different. We tried to come into this fight relaxed so we can feel like nothing’s changed and that we’re just here to do our jobs.”

“I feel motivated to show fans who I truly am. In the past couple of years and even months I have developed more as a human being and a business-oriented person. I’m really happy to be fighting in my hometown – I didn’t think that this would happen so soon in my career. We are making the most out of this opportunity.”

Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight will take place on Saturday, October 29 and will be broadcast live exclusively on DAZN worldwide. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.

Media interested in credentials can apply at https://emcevents.com/diaz_zepeda.html. Media applications are due EOD October 21.

Tickets for Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda are on sale and are priced at $125, $80, $60, $40 and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at AXS.com, PechangaArenaSD.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

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 #DiazJrZepeda

Gilberto Ramirez remained undefeated by stopping Dominic Boesel in round four of their 12-round light heavyweight elimination bout at The Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

In round four, Ramirez dropped Boesel with a hard left to the body and the fight was stopped at 1:33

Ramirez, 174.8 lbs of Mazaltan, MEX is 44-0 with 30 knockouts. Boesel, 174.2 lbs of Freyburg, GER is 32-3.

“I feel great about my performance,” said Zurdo Ramirez. “As I said, I would put on a spectacular show here in LA. I got the victory via knock-out. I was expecting his best; we were expecting heavy shots. I trained way too hard for this position, and no one will take it from me. I used my distance more, and I attacked the body more. I know my last fight was tough, but I was really prepared for this one. I ate more tacos for this fight. I feel this is my natural weight. Everyone knows I want Bivol. He needs to stop running and sign the contract. I’m coming for you and that belt. I deserve that fight. I think I can beat him since I’m bigger, stronger, and smarter.”

“I thought I would hit him more with my jab,” said Domonic Boesel. “I came confidently to this fight. He got me in the liver with the first punch. I couldn’t do much when I got hit with the body shot.”

Zepeda Decisions Alvarado

William Zepeda remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over former world champion Rene Alvarado in a lightweight bout.

Zepeda landed 318 of 956; Alvarado was 206 of 1391. – Alvarado’s 1,391 total punches are the fourth-most ever recorded by CompuBox in a lightweight fight.  Their combined 2,347 total punch attempts are the 3rd most in CompuBox lightweight history…

Zepeda. 134.4 lbs of San Mateo Atenco, MEX won by scores of 98-92, 97-93 and 96-94 and is now 26-0. Alvarado, 134.6 lbs of Managua, NIC is 32-12.

“It was a great fight with a great fighter,” said William Zepeda. “I have a lot to learn, and we need to work on some things. I want to thank Alvarado for the opportunity. He gave me some of his experience, which I am grateful for. We’re going to keep giving it our all. Now to enjoy this victory. Thank you to all my fans.”

John Ramirez Knocks Salvatierra Out of Ring in 1

John Ramirez scored an explosive first-round stoppage over Jan Salvatierra in a scheduled eight-round super flyweight bout.

Ramirez landed a perfect right hand that folded Salvatierra down and under the bottom rope. Salvatierra was able to get back in the ring, but he was in no condition to continue and the fight was stopped at 2:25.

Ramirez, 114.6 lbs of Los Angeles, CA is 10-0 with eight knockouts. Salvatierra, 114.6 lbs of Cabo San Lucas, MEX is 8-2.

“I knew I was going to end the fight via knock-out,” said John Ramirez. “I am excited the fight ended dramatically, but there is more to come from me. I am going to keep working, keep rising until I can claim that world title.”

Akitsugi Wins Technical Decision over Gonzalez

Katsuma Akitsugi won a technical decision over Jose Gonzalez when Gonzalez could not continue after a head clash opened up a cut. The featherweight bout was scheduled for 10-rounds.

In round three, Gonzalez was cut over the left eye from an accidental headbutt. As the fourth round commenced, Gonzalez could not continue, and the fight was waved off.

Akitsugi, 124.6 lbs of Hollywood, CA is 10-0. Gonzalez, 125.8 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 23-10-1.

“I don’t even feel like I fought,” said Katsuma Akitsugi. “I was trying to fight the full ten rounds. Unfortunately, the head butt was an accident. I wanted to continue, but it is what it is. I can’t wait to fight on more Golden Boy cards.”

Jorge Chavez remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over Eduardo Melendez in a scheduled four-round super featherweight bout.

Chavez, 128.4 lbs of San Diego, CA is 4-0 woth three knockouts. Melendez, 129.6 lbs of Ponce, PR is 6-32.

“I had a lot of success tonight,” said Jorge Chavez. “We had little fall outs in my camp but we pushed through. We came out victorious and my people were here. He was a big fighter so I had to pick him apart. He started getting tired and I went in for the kill. I started throwing sharp shots.”

Japhtelee Llamido stopped Edgar Figueroa in round five of their six-round super featherweight bout.

In round five, Llamido landed a hard right to the body that sent Figueroa to the canvas and the fight was stopped at 1:35.

Llamido, 126.4 lbs of Norwalk, CA is 7-0 with four knockouts. Figueroa, 127.2 lbs of Palm Beach, FL is 4-3-1.

“I felt good, I stuck to the game plan my team had for this fight,” said Japhethlee Llamido. “My opponent was tough, he had some fights at 130-135lbs so we knew he was going to be strong. We’ll just get ready for the next one.”

Carlos Nava stopped Yampier Hernandez in the sixth and final round of their lightweight bout.

In round six, Nava landed hard flurry on the ropes and backed up Hernandez and the fight was stopped at 1:57.

Nava, 135 lbs of Pasadena, TX is 8-0 with five knockouts. Hernandez, 133.6 lbs of Miami, FL is 1-1.

“It’s my first time fighting in a bigger venue than usual,” said Carlos Nava. “I felt amazing. It’s like a dream come true. I thought my opponent was very experienced since he’s a bronze medalist. I was the one hunting him down. Hopefully I get back in camp in a couple days and on to the next fight.”

Kareem Hackett remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Josue Obando in a cruiserweight bout.

In round five, Obando began to bleed from his nose.

Hackett, 178.6 lbs of Toronto, CAN won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 10-0. Obando, 179.4 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 20-34-2.

” I felt excellent,” said Kareem Hacket. “My whole team is here to support and I opened up the night. My opponent was tough. I hit him with everything I got and he was still standing. Props to him for being a veteran in the sport. Hopefully I keep fighting on these cards and eventually get a regional title or maybe go back to Canada and get the Canadian title.”

In an exciting toe-to-toe war, Mercito Gesta won a 10-round unanimous decision over Joel Diaz Jr. in a lightweight bout at the Fantasy Springs Hotel Resort in Indio, California

In round one, Gesta dropped Diaz with a right. Later in the round, Gesta landed a hard flurry that was followed up with a left that sent Diaz into the ropes for a second knockdown. In round two, Gesta was cut on the bridge of his nose.

In round six, Diaz was swelling from his let eye and bleeding from his mouth. Diaz was able to get in some good offense, but every time the fight tide seemed to be turning, Gesta would land either a hard straight left or a nice right hook. The two thrilled the crowd to the final bell.

Gesta landed 197 of 630 punches; Diaz was 172 of 613.

Gesta, 134.8 lbs of San Diego, CA won by scores of 96-92 twice and 95-93 and is now 33-3-3. Diaz, 134.6 lbs of Palmdale, CA is 26-3.

“I feel energized, knowing I have an upcoming baby that has made me want to go back in the ring,” said Mercito Gesta. “We have been trying for six years, and we are blessed with this new life. I am so happy. When they said that there is ring rust, I don’t think I have that because I have been working hard and staying in shape. Joel Diaz, Jr. is a tough fighter, and winning and having such a great performance is going to open the doors for me in the sport.”

“Mercito is a tough opponent,” said Joel Diaz, Jr. “I was giving him a lot of hard punches, but I couldn’t catch him. There is still a lot that I need to work on, focusing on landing my punches and staying patient. I was going out there looking for the kill, but that’s not always going to happen.”

Jousce Gonzalez stopped Jairo Lopez in round six, of their eight-round lightweight bout.

In round two, Gonzalez dropped Lopez with an uppercut. In round three, Gonzalez dropped a now-bloody Lopez with a combination. In round five, Gonzalez started to bleed around his right eye.

In round six, Gonzalez landed a big flurry that was punctuated by a big uppercut and the fight was stopped at 2:29.

Gonzalez, 134.4 lbs of Covina, CA is 12-0-1 with 11 knockouts. Lopez, 133.2 lbs of Apodaca, MEX is 27-15.

“I give my performance a six out of ten,” said Jousce Gonzalez. “This is my first fight back, and I know I can do better. He is a very resilient fighter, but I knew I was landing my shots and hurting him. I knew he was taking some punishment, so I wasn’t surprised when the referee waved the fight off. I am just happy to be back in the ring and want to aim to fight big names in the division.”

Manuel Flores remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage over Victor Ruiz in a scheduled eight-round super bantamweight bout.

In round three, Flores dropped Ruiz with a hard combination. Seconds later, it was a big left that sent Ruiz to the canvas. Finally it was a straight left that put Ruiz down and the fight was stopped at 2:21.

Flores, 119.4 lbs of Coachella, CA is now 12-0 with nine knockouts. Ruiz, 119.6 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 23-13.

“I am so happy to be here and fight in front of all my family and friends,” said Manuel Flores.  “I want to thank all the local fans that came out to support; it gives me much more motivation to continue fighting.”

Jan Salvatierra stopped Ernie Marquez in round two of their six-round flyweight bout.

In round two, Salvatierra dropped Marquez with a right hand. Marquez looked like he twisted his ankle and the fight was stopped at 2:26.

Salvatierra, 111.6 lbs of Cabo San Lucas, MEX is now 8-1 with four knockouts. Marquez, 110.8 lbs of Fort Morgan, CO is now 10-18-2.

“First of all I want to thank God and Golden Boy for the opportunity to fight tonight,” said Jan Salvatierra.  “We have had a great training camp, preparing since January for anything that could pop up. We trained to go the distance. I was expecting more from my opponent, hoping that his experience would bring more to the table. But unfortunately he sustained an injury and things happen for a reason. I want to be active for the rest of the year and hopefully fight for a regional title soon.”

Jorge Chavez stopped Jonathan Tejeda in round two of the scheduled four-round super featherweight fight.

In round two, Chavez dropped Tejeda with an overhand right to the side of the head, and the fight was stopped at 1:04.

Chavez, 127.8 lbs of San Diego, CA is 2-0 with two knockouts. Tejeda, 124.8 lbs of Mexico City, MEX is 0-2.

“I loved being able to fight at Fantasy Springs; all my friends and family were able to come to see me in a more intimate venue,” said Jorge Chavez. “I am happy I got the victory, but every fight is a learning experience. We will continue to grow, learn, and just get better and better every fight.” 

LOS ANGELES (April 13, 2022) – Boxing’s most beloved heavyweight fighter, Gerry Cooney is set as the special VIP Guest at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino on the April 21st fight card. The event features Golden Boy returning to its Coachella Valley home and is headlined by Palmdale’s Joel Diaz, Jr. (26-2, 22 KOs) and San Diego’s Mercito “No Mercy” Gesta (32-3-3, 17 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight battle. The co-main event of the night Jousce “Tito” Gonzalez (11-0-1, 10 KOs) from Glendora, CA, will face Jairo Lopez (27-14, 17 KOs) of Apodaca, Mexico in an 8-round lightweight bout. Also on the card, San Diego’s top prospect Jorge Chavez (1-0, 1 KOs) is scheduled for a 4-round super featherweight fight. Undefeated prospect Manuel Flores (11-0, 8 KOs) of Coachella, CA, will take on the experienced Victor Ruiz (23-12, 16 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico in an 8-round super bantamweight fight. Also, part of the DAZN broadcast, Los Cabos, Mexico’s Jan Salvatierra (7-1, 3 KOs) will participate in a 6-round flyweight event, and Hawaii’s Asa Stevens (2-0, 1 KOs) is scheduled for a 4-round bantamweight bout. All the fights will be streamed live, exclusively, on DAZN worldwide starting at 6:00 p.m. PT / 9:00 p.m. ET.

Best known for his epic battles against George Foreman and Larry Holmes, Gerry Cooney challenged for the WBC and Lineal Heavyweight World Championship titles in 1982 and the Lineal Heavyweight World Championship in 1987. The heavy-handed, Cooney compiled a professional record of 28 wins and 3 losses, with 24 knockouts and not one of his fights ever went the distance. He is currently ranked number 53 on The Ring’s list of “100 Greatest Punchers of All Time” and according to George Foreman, Gerry Cooney was one of the three hardest punchers he had faced in his career. As the VIP guest, Cooney will be in attendance for the fights and will be on hand to meet fans, sign autographs and take pictures inside the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center before the DAZN livestream begins. The meet-and-greet is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the event.

Tickets for Diaz Jr. vs. Gesta are on sale now and are priced at $45, $35 and $25 plus applicable facility fees and service charges. Tickets are available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

Diaz, Jr. vs. Gesta is a 10-round super lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event was sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The fight will take place on Thursday, April 21 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, CA, and will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and 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 #DiazJrGesta #GBFightNight