In a highly anticipated showdown, Gilberto Ramirez is set to make a statement as he steps into the cruiserweight ring against former light heavyweight champion Joe Smith Jr. this Saturday. The glitzy Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, under the banner of Golden Boy Promotions and broadcasted on DAZN, will play host to this electrifying bout.
Ramirez, with a record of 44-1 and 30 KOs, is no stranger to the boxing fans. However, recent setbacks, including a unanimous decision loss to Dmitry Bivol and a canceled fight due to weight issues, have cast a shadow on his illustrious career. But Ramirez is undeterred. Speaking from the Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood, he expressed his newfound confidence in the cruiserweight class, stating, “I feel much stronger in this class and most importantly I feel healthy.”
The sting of the Bivol loss still lingers for Ramirez, but it’s fueled his determination. “It hurt my soul and my ego as a warrior,” he confessed. But now, with renewed vigor, he’s eager to prove himself once more. Despite his past achievements, including victories over formidable opponents like Yunieski Gonzalez and Sullivan Barrera, the real test lies ahead. Will Ramirez’s renowned power translate to the cruiserweight division?
As for Smith Jr., this will also mark his cruiserweight debut, adding another layer of intrigue to the match-up. Ramirez, ever the sportsman, acknowledged Smith Jr.’s prowess, noting his history with world champions and top-tier opponents.
Image Credit: DAZN