Golden Boy Promotions has just rolled out the red carpet for Joel Iriarte, a boxing whiz kid with 17 national titles and a stint on Team USA in his trophy case. This fighter, with roots in Mexico and a childhood spent in Bakersfield, California, is about to step into the pro ring for the first time on the Zepeda vs. Hughes undercard.
Joel Iriarte is buzzing with enthusiasm. “Hooking up with Golden Boy Promotions is like hitting the jackpot,” he says. “Teaming up with boxing legends like Oscar De La Hoya and Eric Gomez is surreal. I’m all set to unleash my boxing finesse, drive, and grit in the pro scene. With the Golden Boy squad in my corner, the sky’s the limit.”
Oscar De La Hoya, the big boss at Golden Boy, is just as thrilled. “Joel is top-notch material, and he’s landed in the right spot to clinch a world champion title,” De La Hoya states. “Joel’s got the champion’s gene, much like myself. He’s worn the Team USA colors and struck gold at the Pan American Games. Everyone should be on the edge of their seats for Joel’s debut this Saturday in Vegas. We’re all in for a treat as we watch a stellar career take off.”
Lyle Green from Sheer Sports Management adds, “Joel’s magic in the ring is matched by his solid character outside of it. He’s grounded by a strong family, puts in the hard yards, and has faith in his journey. Joel’s got a bright future ahead, and we’re pumped to be steering his path.”
Joel’s tale is one of sheer determination and skill. Between 2018 and 2021, he donned the Team USA jersey, rising from the local rings of Bakersfield to the national spotlight. With 17 national crowns and three Gold medals, his amateur career is nothing short of legendary. With over 280 amateur bouts to his name, Joel is now eyeing success in the professional welterweight arena under the Golden Boy Promotions flag.