Ramirez vs Espinoza and Zayasvs Fortea will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT
Pembroke Pines, Florida, is set to come alive on Saturday, Dec. 9, with a special Top Rank on ESPN card at the Charles F. Dodge City Center.
In the spotlight? Cuban WBO featherweight champion Robeisy “El Tren” Ramirez who will defend his title against undefeated Mexican top-contender Rafael “El Divino” Espinoza.
But don’t turn away just yet. A 10-round junior middleweight fight features the exciting Puerto Rican talent Xander Zayas as he gears up to fight Spain’s Jorge Fortea.
Fans can catch Ramirez-Espinoza and Zayas-Fortea live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ starting at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Tickets, brought to you by Top Rank and Zanfer Promotions, open up for sale on Wednesday, Nov. 1 at 10 a.m. ET via Ticketmaster.com.
Top Rank chairman Bob Arum voiced his excitement, “We’re set for a great evening in South Florida. Ramirez faces a significant test against a challenger who remains unyielding, while Zayas aims to resonate with his vast South Florida followers.”
Robeisy Ramirez, with a record of 13-1 and 8 KOs, carries the distinction of a two-time Olympic gold medalist. After collaborating with trainer Ismael Salas, his career trajectory soared. 2022 saw him defeat the likes of Eric Donovan, Abraham Nova, and Jose Matias Romero. 2023 was no less spectacular. He clinched the WBO featherweight title in April and successfully defended it against Satoshi Shimizu in July.
On fighting in Miami, Ramirez remarked, “For many Cubans, Miami is a vital hub, echoing our culture and heritage. I’ve always dreamed of fighting close to my fellow Miamians, and that dream is about to come true. I anticipate the support from the Cuban community on December 9.”
Espinoza, undefeated with a record of 21-0 and a notable 18 KOs, has been grinding for over ten years for a shot at the world title. Mostly having fought in Mexico, this towering 6’1″ fighter brings a formidable seven-inch height advantage and rides a knockout momentum into this fight.
Espinoza shares, “This is my moment. Robeisy is a great champion, and facing him is an honor. Our fight will be remembered, and I’m confident about that.”
Zayas, with an impressive 17-0 and 11 KOs, has been a sensation since signing with Top Rank at 16. His journey from 2019 has been stellar, including wins against Quincy LaVallais, Alexis Salazar, and Elias Espadas. Jorge Fortea, a seasoned pro from Spain, is currently on a winning streak and was previously the WBC Latino 154-pound belt-holder.
Zayas exclaims, “I’m eager to end the year on a high. The December 9 fight is all about showcasing my evolved skills, proving I’m ready for bigger challenges.”
The ESPN+ undercard is all set to feature rising stars:
Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (9-0, 5 KOs) is slated to fight former title challenger Jason Sanchez (16-4, 9 KOs). This is Carrington’s chance to go undefeated this year in a significant 10-rounder.
Junior middleweight Jahi Tucker (10-1, 5 KOs) faces off against unbeaten Francisco Daniel Veron (13-0, 10 KOs). Tucker’s recent fights included a win against Nikoloz Sekhniashvili and a loss to Nicklaus Flaz.
Rohan Polanco (10-0, 6 KOs) gears up for a fight against Keith Hunter (15-1, 9 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight bout. Polanco’s previous win was against Panamanian contender Cesar Francis.
Tiger Johnson (10-0, 5 KOs) is ready for his fourth 2023 fight, facing off against Jimmer Espinosa (15-1, 14 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight bout.
Damian “Polish Hussar” Knyba (12-0, 7 KOs) is all set to take on Scott Alexander (17-6-2, 9 KOs) in an exciting heavyweight bout.