The electric atmosphere was palpable as U.S. Olympian and former unified super lightweight world champion Jose Ramirez, along with the undefeated knockout artist Vergil Ortiz Jr., took center stage at their final press conference in Fresno, California. The duo is gearing up for a fierce doubleheader this Saturday, April 27, at the Save Mart Center in Fresno, which will be streamed globally on DAZN.
Alongside other formidable fighters on the undercard, Ramirez and Ortiz discussed their imminent battles. Ramirez is set to throw down with Rances Barthelemy, while Ortiz will face off against Thomas Dulorme in what promises to be an explosive set of bouts.
The undercard is stacked with heavy hitters as well. Oscar “La Migraña” Duarte is slated to clash with former world champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. in a 10-round lightweight scrap. In a highly anticipated championship bout, Marlen Esparza will defend her slew of flyweight titles against former champ Gabriela “La Chucky” Alaniz in a 10-round grudge match. The evening will kick off with Raul “El Cugar” Curiel defending his NABF Welterweight Title against Jorge Marron Jr.
The preliminary card will feature up-and-coming talents like Brian Lua, who will face Ronaldo “Criminal” Solis in a six-round lightweight bout, and Figo Gonzalez, who is set to square off against Alejandro Robles in a four-round super flyweight match. Additionally, Jennah “The Gem” Creason will make her much-anticipated professional debut in a four-round welterweight bout against an opponent yet to be announced.
Jose Ramirez expressed his excitement and determination to reclaim his position at the top of the 140-pound division. “I am fired up for this Saturday. My aim is to reclaim all those belts. I still reckon I’m one of the top dogs in the division. I plan on making a statement this Saturday, and that’s what I’ve been hammering away at in the gym,” Ramirez declared, thanking his team and Golden Boy for the opportunity.
Vergil Ortiz, Jr., kept his message brief but potent, highlighting his rigorous preparation for the fight. “We had a smashing training camp, pushed hard, and sparred fiercely. I’m just pumped for Saturday and eager for everyone to see what we bring to the ring,” Ortiz stated, expressing his love for Fresno and anticipation for the fight night.
Golden Boy Promotions’ Chairman and CEO, Oscar De La Hoya, touted the event as a showcase of boxing’s finest, from budding prospects to world-class champions. “This card is absolutely stacked. From emerging talents aiming for contender status to world championship fights in the Women’s flyweight division and two top-notch boxers headlining in separate bouts. This is one Golden Boy event you won’t want to miss,” De La Hoya remarked.
- Jose Ramirez (141.8 lbs / 64.3 kg) vs. Rances Barthelemy (139.6 lbs / 63.3 kg)
- Vergil Ortiz Jr. (200 lbs / 90.7 kg) vs. Thomas Dulorme (146.4 lbs / 66.4 kg)
- Oscar Duarte (138 lbs / 62.6 kg) vs. Joseph Diaz Jr. (139.6 lbs / 63.3 kg)
- Marlen Esparza (111.4 lbs / 50.5 kg) vs. Gabriela Alaniz (111.2 lbs / 50.4 kg)
- Raul Curiel (146 lbs / 66.2 kg) vs. Jorge Marron Jr. (146.4 lbs / 66.4 kg)
- Bryan Lua (134.8 lbs / 61.1 kg) vs. Ronaldo Solis (133 lbs / 60.3 kg)
- Figo Gonzalez (118 lbs / 53.5 kg) vs. Alejandro Robles (117.6 lbs / 53.3 kg
