Roman Gonzalez has locked in his next opponent for the notable comeback on July 12 at the Alexis Arguello Arena in Managua, Nicaragua. He’ll clash with former WBA world title challenger Rober Barrera in a 10-round main event. The bout will be streamed live on ESPN+ and ESPN Knockout for Latin American viewers.
After an 18-month hiatus, Gonzalez aims to shake off any inactivity by July. His most recent appearance was a trilogy bout against Juan Francisco Estrada in December 2022.
“We’re eager to step back into the ring. This comeback is a major step for my career, and I’m thankful it’ll unfold before my home crowd in Nicaragua,” declared Gonzalez, a former five-time world champion.
Rober Barrera, from Monteria, Colombia—a city known for producing champions like Miguel Lora in the ’80s and ’90s—is poised to create a stir. Coming from a lineage of fighters, Barrera’s own brother, Ronald, faced Gonzalez nearly a decade ago in Nicaragua. This upcoming match presents a chance for Barrera to avenge his brother’s defeat.
“I’m honored by this chance,” said Barrera. “This fight is not just about competing; it’s about rectifying my brother’s loss against Gonzalez back in 2013.”
The initial meet-up between Gonzalez and Barrera drew considerable media presence today at the Alexis Arguello Arena. Additional details about the event, including the undercard named “Regreso A Casa,” ticket pricing, and more will follow soon.
World Champion Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez
” I am super happy and excited to be fighting in front of all my family, the Nicaraguan people”
“It will be a dream come true if I can crown myself a 6x champion in 5 different divisions here in Nicaragua”
“For me and my team the greatest all time will always be Alexis Arguello”
Felix “Tuto” Zabala Jr President All Star Boxing, Inc
” The Nicaraguan people will experience a historic night of boxing, I am happy to deliver this along with my partner and mentor Mr. Akihiko Honda of Teiken Promotions”
“We have been diligently working in the country for over 20 years developing boxing in the region and producing world title fights. Roman was always a dream to have and now we are making it reality, This will be a special one”
Carlos Blandon Roman Gonzalez Manager
“After this inactivity of close to 19 months, It will make for a very interesting fight.”
“We expect a positive victory and look forward to a title shot there after and why not at home with the support of his fans”
Five different opponents are on the table for Roman’s selection including countries like Mexico, United States, Panama and Phillipines. The historic night labeled “Regreso a Casa” will be held at Alexis Arguello Arena and live on ESPN Knockout July 12 where the fight will be available to millions of households.
Event Details:
- Date: July 12
- Start Time: USA – 8 PM ET (5 PM PT); UK – 1 AM BST (July 13)
- Streaming: ESPN+ (USA), ESPN Knockout (Latin America)
- Venue: Alexis Arguello Arena, Managua, Nicaragua