The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Chelsea Ballroom, was buzzing with excitement as boxing enthusiasts gathered to witness a thrilling night of action. Promoted by Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, the main event featured former WBO Super Middleweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (45-1, 30 KOs) taking on former WBO Light Heavyweight champion Joe Smith Jr. (28-5, 22 KOs), who was making a comeback after a fifteen-month hiatus.
The bout started with Ramirez showcasing his skills, using Smith as target practice in the early rounds. However, Smith began to find his rhythm by the fourth round, landing significant punches and showing glimpses of his former self. Despite Smith’s efforts, Ramirez’s superior boxing skills were evident as he countered Smith’s advances effectively. The contest was intense, with both fighters having their moments, but Ramirez's experience and skill set proved to be the difference.
Watch the official main event highlights: Watch
In the co-main event, WBA Inter-Continental Super Middleweight southpaw and 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist, Bektemir “Bully” Melikuziev (13-1, 10 KOs), showcased his dominance by stopping Alantez “SlyAza” Fox (28-5-1, 13 KOs) in the fourth round of their scheduled ten-round contest. Melikuziev’s power and precision were on full display as he overwhelmed Fox with a barrage of punches.
The night also featured “DFG” Darius Fulghum (8-0, 8 KOs) making quick work of Alan “Amenaza” Campa (18-9, 12 KOs), knocking him out in the first round. Eric Tudor (9-1, 6 KOs) suffered his first professional loss at the hands of Jose “El Guerro” Luis Sanchez (14-3-1, 4 KOs) in a closely contested eight-round bout.
Other notable fights included Tristan “Street T” Kalkreuth (12-1, 9 KOs) securing a victory over Aaron “Ghozt Mas” Casper (7-5-2, 5 KOs) and Jahyae Brown (13-2, 9 KOs) losing a majority decision to Victor Toney (8-2-1, 6 KOs). The event was a testament to the high-caliber boxing talent on display, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the next big match-up.
Image Credit: Golden Boy Promotions