Jamaine Ortiz: “I was in control – this was a one-sided fight for me”

LAS VEGAS, NV – Jamaine Ortiz (17-2-1, 8 KOs) was the “Showman” on Thursday night.  In his first world title fight against Ring and WBO junior welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez (20-1, 13 KOs), the Technician executed his fight plan to perfection: darting in and out with quick combinations, feinting and countering effectively, and using movement and speed to puzzle and frustrate one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.  The only thing Ortiz didn’t do was win a decision in the eyes of the judges.  

“It was a masterful performance,” said CES Boxing founder Jimmy Burchfield, Sr.  “He outboxed Lopez from the beginning.  Jamaine outshined the showman in his hometown and then he was robbed of the decision.  It’s shame when a fighter loses a decision like that after putting on such a boxing clinic.  As far as I’m concerned, we beat Teofimo Lopez and we’re ready to challenge the other champions in the division.”

Closely guarding his gameplan throughout fight week, ‘The Technician’ came out as a southpaw from the opening bell and never switched to orthodox.  Despite having fought southpaws the likes of Vasyl Lomachenko, Josh Taylor and Sandor Martin throughout his career, Lopez seemed unable to hit Ortiz cleanly and was equally ineffective at cutting off the ring. 

“I stuck to the gameplan,” said a dejected Ortiz moments after the decision.  “He couldn’t hit me.  I was making him miss all night.  I was keeping him at bay with the jab, I was countering with the check hook. He wasn’t landing any shots on me.” 

Team Ortiz devised a plan based on Lopez being ineffective in the role of aggressor.  The game plan paid dividends immediately, as Teofimo often found himself punching air and being made to pay with counter right hooks. 

“Like I said the whole week, he gets frustrated,” said Ortiz of his opponent’s temperament. “He can’t control himself. I know how to control myself and I knew he couldn’t. That was the game plan: get him frustrated and make him lose control.  He was throwing wild, I was making him miss, it was part of the game plan and it worked.”

That’s not to say that Ortiz fought off the back foot all night.  There were several instances throughout the contest when Lopez waved Ortiz in and Jamaine obliged, tagging up the Brooklyn native with rapid fire combinations. 

After 12 rounds, the only real damage that ‘The Technician’ suffered, other than the widely booed decision, was a cut on his left eye from a headbutt in round 7. 

“I believe I won the fight,” said Ortiz to a group of reporters afterwards. “I got him out of his gameplan.  He was frustrated and I was in control.  He was missing wildly, and I was countering him.  What can I say?  It’s politics as usual.”

Several high-profile boxers agreed, taking to social media in the early hours of Friday morning to voice their opinions.

“People gotta understand the game is called ‘BOXING’ and not ‘FIGHTING’,” wrote undisputed welterweight champion Terrence Crawford.  “Hit and not get hit.  But I guess y’all don’t know what that means, because when y’all see a fighter boxing the first thing y’all say is he’s running.”

“Beautiful boxing by Ortiz,” echoed former 2-time welterweight champion Shawn Porter.  “Doing exactly what he needs to do.  It’s like a video game.  If you can’t stop my play why the hell would I pick a different play?” 

Undefeated junior welterweight contender Arnold Barboza Jr. summed it up best: “Ortiz boxed well. Congratulations.  Hopefully they don’t rob you”. 

“I came up on the short end of the stick once again,” lamented Ortiz.  “Obviously we’ll go back to the drawing board, make some adjustments, and come back for another title shot.  The fans know what happened. The media knows, my team knows.  The whole world probably saw it my way, but the decision is already made. Boxrec and history will say that he won, but hopefully we get a rematch and I’ll make it more of a clear decision next time around.”

Jamaine Ortiz may not be coming home with the official win, but the fans, his peers and the world saw the Worcester native put on a boxing clinic as he showed up ‘The Showman’ in his own backyard. 

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.INFORMATIONCES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the East Coast.  Founded in 1992 by Jimmy Burchfield Sr., CES Boxing has promoted many world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, Chad Dawson and Ray Oliveira. CES Boxing has promoted such super fights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones Jr.”, “Mayweather vs. Gotti III” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.
 


FOLLOW LOPEZ – ORTIZ LIVE!

Follow all the action as Teofimo Lopez defends the WBO Junior Welterweight world title against Jamaine Ortiz.  The action begins at 10:30 PM ET /7:30 PM with Keyshawn Davis fighting former world champion Jose Pedraza.

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12 ROUNDS–WBO JR. WLTERWEIGHT TITLE–TEOFIMO LOPEZ (19-1, 13 KOS) VS JAMAINE ORTIZ (17-1-1, 8 KOS)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
LOPEZ* 9 10 10 9 10 10 10 10 9 10 10 10 117
ORTIZ 10 9 9 10 10 9 9 9 10 9 9 9 112

ROUND 1 Good jab from Ortiz..

ROUND 2 Right from Lopez..Right

ROUND 3 Good right to body from Lopez..Good uppercut…Uppercut from Ortiz..Left..Right from Lopez..Good counter

ROUND 4 Good Right to body and sweeping left hook from Lopez…Digs to body and short right hand for Ortiz..Counter right hook

ROUND 5 

ROUND 6 Counter right from Lopez…Left from Ortiz..Counter right from Lopez..

ROUND 7 Blood from left eye of Ortiz (Accidental headutt)..Right from Lopez..Right uppercut…Blood coming from mouth of Ortiz

ROUND 8  Right hook from Ortiz..

ROUND 9 Combination from Ortiz

ROUND 10 Short uppercut on inside from Lopez..Hook..

ROUND 11 Double Right from Lopez..Straight left from Ortiz..

ROUND 12  Short Right from Lopez…Right..

117-111, 115-113 twice FOR LOPEZ

10 Rounds–Lightweights–Keyshawn Davis (9-0, 6 KOs) vs Jose Pedraza (29-5-1, 14 KOs)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
Davis* 9 10 10 10 10 TKO 49
Pedraza 10 9 9 9 9 46

Round 1 Right from Pedraza…
Round 2 Good right from Davis…Left Hook..3 Punch combination..Right to the body..Right
Round 3 3 punch combination from Davis..Good combination..right hand and a left hook to the head…Double right to the body..Right and landing head shots.
Round 4  Doctor looking at right eye of Pedraza…
Round 5 Jab to the body from Davis…Right
Round 6 Good body shot from Davis..Right and is teeing off on Pedraza…Big right on the ROPES AND PEDRAZA IS BLOODY AND THE FIGHT IS STOPPED

ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL

Round 1:

ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL



Teofimo Lopez Decisions Ortiz; Retains Jr. Welterweight Title

It wasn’t pretty, but Teofimo Lopez won a 12-round unanimous decision over Jamaine Ortiz to retain his WBO Junior Welterweight title at the Michelob Ultra Arena inside Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

The fight took it’s shape early as Ortiz wanted to circle the ring and not do much on offense. Lopez was following Ortiz around, but he was at least trying to make the fight. The fight was a frustrating watch, as the movement of Ortiz did not give Lopez any opportunities for sustained offense.

In round seven, Ortiz was cut above the left eye from an accidental headbutt In the same round, Lopez began to bleed from his mouth. The fight continued it’s defensive struggle theme as Lopez would land glancing blows, but it was more then what Ortiz was able amount.

Lopez landed 78 of 364 punches. Ortiz was 80 of 409.

Lopez, 139.6 lbs of Brooklyn won by scores of 117-111 and 115-113 twice to raise his record to 20-1. Ortiz, 139.6 lbs of Worcester, MA is 17-2-1.

Keyshawn Davis Stops Jose Pedraza in 6

Jose Pedraza remained undefeated bt stopping former two-division world champion Jose Pedraza in round six of their 10-round lightweight bout.

Davis was dominant from the second round on as he worked the body and that slowed the veteran Pedraza who was fighting at lightweight for the first time in four years.

In round six, Davis landed a body shot that set up a big right over the top that hurt Pedraza. Davis jumped on his prey and unloaded with some hard shots that forced Pedraza back on the ropes and the ref saved a bloody Pedraza as it was stopped at

Davis, 134.7 lbs of Norfolk, CA is 10-0 with seven knockouts. Pedraza, 134.5 lbs of Cidra, PR is 29-6-1.

Rene Tellez Giron won a eight-round unanimous decision over George Acosta in a lightweight bout.

In round five, Giron dropped Acosta with an overhand right. Giron was cut in the back of his head from a headbutt.

Giron landed 146 of 486 punches. Acosta was 125 of 422.

Giron, 132 lbs of Quertarro, MEX won by scores of 79-72, 78-73 and 76-75 and is now 19-3. Acosta, 131.3 lbs of Whittier, CA is 17-2.

Javier Martinez remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Raul Salomon in a middleweight bout.

Martinez, 161.6 lbs of Milwaukee, WI won by scores of 79-73 and 78-74 and is now 10-0-1. Salomon, 164.4 lbs of Long Beach, CA

Hot-Shot prospect Abdullah Mason scored a spectacular second round stoppage over Benjamin Gurment in round two of an eight round lightweight bout.

In round two, Mason landed three booming lefts that drove Gurment into the corner that was ruled a knockdown. The fighters met in the center in the ring and Mason landed a devastating left that put Gurment down on his back and the fight was stopped at 1:29.

Mason, 135.3 lbs is 12-0 with 10 knockouts. Gurment, 136.8 lbs of Fort Worth, TX is 8-1-3.

Charlie Sheehy remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Abdel Sauceda in lightweight bout.

Sheehy, 135.7 lbs of Brisbane, CA won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 9-0. Sauceda, 135.4 lbs of Monterrey, MEX is 12-4.

Alan Garcia made short work of Tomas Ornelas by registering a 51 second knockout in a six-round lightweight bout.

Garcia dropped Ornelas in the opening seconds with a left hook. Garcia ended things with three punch combo that finished off by a left to the body and the fight was stopped at

Garcia, 136.6 lbs of Ulysses, KS is now 11-0 with nine knockouts. Ornelas, 134.6 lbs of Denver is now 7-4.

Lemir Isom-Riley stopped Antonio Zeoeda in round three of their six-round heavyweight bout.

In round three, Isom-Riley dropped Zepeda as Zepeda took a knee. Moments later, Isom-Riley scored a second knockdown after a flurry and the fight was stopped by the corner at 1:28.

Isom-Riley, 257 lbs of Harrisburg, PA is 4-2 with two knockdowns. Zepeda, 299.7 lbs of Las Vegas is 6-2.

Art Barrera Jr. stopped Michael Portales in the opening round of their four-round junior welterweight fight.

In round one, Barrera landed a huge left hook that put Portales on the canvas and the fight was stopped at 1:41.

Barrera, 141 lbs of Linwoood, CA is 3-0 with three knockouts. Portales, 140 lbs of San Jose, CA is 3-3-1.



Jamaine Ortiz plans to outshine the Showman on ESPN Tonight

LAS VEGAS, NV – Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (17-1-1, 8 KOs) is in the biggest fight of his career as he challenges Teofimo “The Takeover” Lopez (19-1, 13 KOs) for his Ring and WBO Junior Welterweight titles from the Michelob Ultra Arena and live on ESPN tonight.

Over the past few months, the Worcester, MA native had been campaigning for a high-profile bout against the top names of the lightweight and junior welterweight divisions.  From Shakur Stevenson to Devin Haney, Ortiz looked to match his skills against the best fighters in the world.  It was an old rival, however, who finally accepted the challenge.

“To be honest, I don’t know how this fight came to be,” admitted Ortiz on The Final Bell podcast only 9 days from fight night.  “I saw Teofimo at the Benavidez vs. Andrade fight, and a few weeks later, I got the call.”

The fight has all the makings of a classic at a time when the sporting world’s attention is on Las Vegas. Only 3 days before Super Bowl LVIII and just down the strip from where the game will be played, 2 Latin-American fighters from the Northeast will face off for junior welterweight supremacy. 

“It’s a rivalry in the sense that we fought in the past,” says the 27-year-old, referencing their 2015 encounter when Lopez decisioned him to win the National Golden Gloves. “It was a very competitive fight, and we gotta get even on that”.

Both fighters subsequently turned pro at lightweight, with Lopez fighting under the Top Rank banner while Ortiz signed with CES Boxing. 

Lopez’s ascent to championship gold came quicker, with the Brooklyn native knocking out then IBF champion Richard Commey in 2019 and following that up with a decision win over Vasyl Lomachenko to add the WBA and WBO straps to his ledger. ‘The Takeover’ lost his lightweight belts in his next outing to Aussie upstart George Kambosos.  It was his last fight at lightweight, as the 26-year-old moved up to junior welterweight for 2 bouts before dominating Ring and WBO junior welterweight champion Josh Taylor over 12 rounds at Madison Square Garden last year. 

Ortiz took a similar route.  ‘The Technician’ burst onto the national scene with a dominant victory over former WBO Super Featherweight champion Jamel Herring in 2022.  He followed up that impressive victory with a close decision loss to Lomachenko later that year. Despite the loss, Ortiz was given high praise from the media and Lomachenko, who recognized Jamaine as his toughest opponent to date.

Now co-promoted by Top Rank in addition to CES Boxing, Ortiz moved up to junior welterweight last year, outboxing Mexican veteran Antonio Moran over 10 rounds.  This set the stage for a showdown against Lopez, one of the biggest showmen of the sport.

“He’s a great fighter,” admits Ortiz of Teofimo.  “I think he’s the best at 140 right now. I feel like it’s a harder challenge [than Stevenson and Haney], but I can’t take anything away from the guys at the top. They’re world champions for a reason.  It takes a lot to get there, but I feel like once I beat Teofimo, I’ll be the top guy”.

The Technician sees a lot of similarities between himself and Lopez.  In fact, he believes that a key difference in the fight will be how Teofimo will react when faced with an opponent with similar qualities and strengths.

“There’s a lot more similarities,” says Ortiz, “but the key difference is gonna be who stays under control, and I feel like I’m always under control”.

Indeed, while Lopez can be as unpredictable outside of the ring as he is dynamic in the ring, the Worcester native of Puerto Rican and Dominican descent has a calm, cool demeanor that is more reminiscent of Miguel Cotto than of Feliz Trinidad.

However, that laid back nature does not mean that he is not as fast, tenacious, and technical as any fighter in the world, as Vasyl Lomachenko found out in their encounter.   

“I don’t think Teofimo really faced another fighter who’s explosive,” agrees Ortiz.  “A fighter who likes to jump off their feet to punch like he does.  He’s gonna have challenges with my speed and my movement.  I think it’s gonna be a surprise for him when what he’s used to doing to others is being done to him”.

When asked if he believes that Lopez is fully focused on him, Ortiz dispels any notion that ‘The Takeover’ is looking ahead to fights against Terrence Crawford or Shakur Stevenson.

“I’m preparing like he’s focused 100% on me,” says Ortiz. “I don’t care what he says on social media. I know my focus is on him, and my preparation is for the best version of him. My eyes are locked in on him like as if his eyes are locked in on me, even if that’s not the case.  That’s how I’m coming.”

If his words are any indication, Lopez is sure to encounter an inspired Ortiz who is fully determined to bring the world championship back to Worcester, where his city will celebrate their newest champion.

“All the hard work has been done, and now we’re just putting everything together,” says Ortiz.  “I’m excited to fight for my first world title and ready to put on a show. You’re gonna see fireworks.  My whole city is behind me and they’re gonna have a nice celebration for me when I come back as champion. You’re not going to want to miss this fight.”

“The Showman Returns: Teofimo vs. Ortiz” takes place at 8:30pm tonight from the Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas and live on ESPN.

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the East Coast.  Founded in 1992 by Jimmy Burchfield Sr., CES Boxing has promoted many world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, Chad Dawson and Ray Oliveira. CES Boxing has promoted such super fights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones Jr.”, “Mayweather vs. Gotti III” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.


VIDEO: Teofimo Lopez vs Jamaine Ortiz | WEIGH-IN



 Weigh-In Results: Teofimo Lopez vs. Jamaine Ortiz

 •  Teofimo Lopez 139.6 lbs. vs. Jamaine Ortiz 139.6 lbs
(Lopez’s WBO/Ring Magazine Junior Welterweight World Titles – 12 Rounds)

   •  Keyshawn Davis 134.7 lbs vs. Jose Pedraza 134.5 lbs
(Lightweight — 10 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT)

•  George Acosta 131.3 lbs vs. Rene Tellez Giron 132 lbs
 (Lightweight —8 Rounds)

•  Javier Martinez 161.6 lbs vs. Raul Salomon 164.4 lbs
 (Middleweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Abdullah Mason 135.3 lbs vs. Benjamin Gurment 136.8 lbs
 (Lightweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Charlie Sheehy 135.7 lbs vs. Abdel Sauceda 135.4 lbs
 (Lightweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Alan Garcia 136.6 lbs vs. Tomas Ornelas 134.6 lbs
 (Lightweight — 6 Rounds)

•   Antonio Zepeda 299.7 lbs vs. Lemir Isom-Riley 257 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

•   Art Barrera Jr. 141 lbs vs. Michael Portales 140 lbs
 (Junior Welterweight — 4 Rounds)



VIDEO: Teofimo Lopez vs Jamaine Ortiz | PRESS CONFERENCE



Press Conference Notes: Teofimo Lopez-Jamaine Ortiz Junior Welterweight World Title Battle Kicks Off Big Game Weekend

LAS VEGAS, Nevada (Feb. 6, 2024) — The “Showman” is ready to kick off Big Game Weekend by settling unfinished business. 

Teofimo Lopez (19-1, 13 KOs) will defend his WBO and Ring Magazine junior welterweight titles against Jamaine Ortiz (17-1-1, 8 KOs) on Thursday, Feb. 8, at Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

In the 10-round lightweight co-feature, U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis (9-0, 6 KOs) faces Puerto Rican former two-division world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (29-5-1, 14 KOs).

Lopez-Ortiz & Davis-Pedraza will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT) will feature a gamut of up-and-coming talents:

Javier “Milwaukee Made” Martinez (9-0-1, 3 KOs) will take on Raul Salomon (12-2, 10 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight clash.

Unbeaten lightweights Abdullah Mason (11-0, 9 KOs) and Charlie Sheehy (8-0, 5 KOs) will return in separate eight-round fights. Mason will square off against Benjamin Gurment (8-0-3, 5 KOs), while Sheehy faces Abdel Sauceda (12-3, 8 KOs).

Lightweight prospect Alan “Kid Kansas” Garcia (10-0, 8 KOs) will risk his unbeaten record in a six-rounder versus Tomas Ornelas (7-3, 5 KOs).

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Takeover Promotions and CES Boxing, tickets are on sale now at AXS.com. 

At Tuesday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Teofimo Lopez

“I’m the big clown of the sport of boxing. I’ve got to make everyone laugh. I’ve got a big nose for a reason.”

“It’s great to be back. I’m glad to see the talents coming through. But this is only the beginning for me. I’m 26 years young. I’m not even in my prime yet.”

“We have a tremendous dance partner. He’s wanted this fight for awhile. And we’ll do our thing.”

“I’ve been to the top before at 135, beating the most decorated fighter at the time. Nobody wanted to face him. Now we’re back again. I beat the guy nobody wanted to fight again. So, I’ve looked it as I’ve gained it, lost it and I’ve gained it back again. I know what it takes to be great, which means to respect the ring and respect what it means to be a champion.”

Jamaine Ortiz

“There hasn’t been respect. It’s a fight. I’m coming here to take his head off. It is what it is.
There is a calm before the storm. you’ve got to know to keep control of your mind and body, especially before you go into battle.”

“I feel like I’m going to be the guy having the clown do whatever I want to do. It’s going to be that kind of show.”

“When I win Thursday night, it’s going to be a great night. I’m going to remember it for the rest of my life. It will be the day I became a world champion. It will be another step in my goal to getting other great fights and to continue building my legacy.”  

Keyshawn Davis

“Pedraza said that he has all the experience. And he did fight a lot of great fighters. But he hasn’t fought me before. I don’t care about all the experience he has because he hasn’t fought me yet. So he’s going to see everything I bring to the table.”

“He’s a great fighter. He’s been in a lot of great fights for the sport of boxing. And I believe he’s good for the sport of boxing. But I feel like he’s got the biggest challenge yet in front of him. A young, hungry, real fighter. When that bell starts, I won’t be here to play. It’s going to be an action-packed fight. I’m definitely coming out victorious, but the fans are going to be the winners that night.”Jose Pedraza

“At this point of my career, it doesn’t matter who is my opponent. Keyshawn Davis is an excellent boxer. He doesn’t have the experience that I do in professional boxing, but he had a great trajectory in amateur boxing. He is an excellent boxer. It doesn’t matter what the record is. You have to face those challenges. It doesn’t matter if he’s a prospect, a veteran or a contender. You have to accept it. Let’s fight.”

“I prepared very well for this fight. I’ve come to do my job. I don’t look the result. But don’t misinterpret me. I do expect a great victory. But I don’t expect a particular result. I simply go to do a good job for the fans, so that they can leave happy.”Javier Martinez

“I represent Milwaukee so much because there aren’t a lot of boxers who come out of there. There’s actually a lot of talent there. But a lot don’t make it out. They don’t get those opportunities. So, I represent for them.”

Abdullah Mason

“It’s amazing. Everybody in my family pushes each other to be better. Not just in boxing. But to be better brothers and family members.”

“I’m going to take advantage of this spotlight. And I’m going to get hungrier and hungrier. We’re on our way to the top.”

Charlie Sheehy

“I love fighting in Las Vegas. I always dreamed of fighting here as a kid, so to be here where great fighters have been is good. I want to come out an execute a great boxing game plan. I want to hit and not get hit. I’ve been working with my trainer, Javiel Centeno, so hopefully you will all see improvements in this fight.”

Alan Garcia

“I always stay in the gym. I like to continue learning. I stay disciplined and do anything to keep my body ready. Staying focused is never a problem for me. I know what I’m here to do.”

Thursday, February 8
 

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT)
 

Teofimo Lopez vs. Jamaine Ortiz, 12 rounds, Lopez’s WBO and Ring Magazine Junior Welterweight World Titles 

Keyshawn Davis vs. Jose Pedraza, 10 rounds, lightweight
 

ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT)
 

George Acosta vs. Rene Tellez Giron, 8 rounds, lightweight 

Javier Martinez vs. Raul Salomon, 8 rounds, middleweight 

Abdullah Mason vs. Benjamin Gurment, 8 rounds, lightweight

Charlie Sheehy vs. Abdel Sauceda, 8 rounds, lightweight 

Alan Garcia vs. Tomas Ornelas, 6 rounds, lightweight

Antonio Zepeda vs. Lemir Isom-Riley, 6 rounds, heavyweight 

Art Barrera Jr. vs. Michael Portales, 4 rounds, junior welterweight



VIDEO: Teofimo Lopez vs Jamaine Ortiz | OPEN WORKOUT



Media Workout: Teofimo Lopez and Jamaine Ortiz Prepare for Junior Welterweight World Title Showdown

LAS VEGAS (Feb. 5, 2024) — Teofimo Lopez (19-1, 13 KOs) and Jamaine Ortiz (17-1-1, 8 KOs) hosted their public workouts today ahead of their showdown for Lopez’s WBO and Ring Magazine junior welterweight world titles this Thursday, Feb. 8 at Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

In the 10-round lightweight co-feature, U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis (9-0, 6 KOs) faces Puerto Rican former two-division world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (29-5-1, 14 KOs).
 
Lopez-Ortiz and Davis-Pedraza will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

Undercard action, streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT, will include the following fights:

George Acosta vs. Rene Tellez Giron, 8 rounds, lightweight

Javier Martinez vs. Raul Salomon, 8 rounds, middleweight

Abdullah Mason vs. Benjamin Gurment, 8 rounds, lightweight

Charlie Sheehy vs. Abdel Sauceda, 8 rounds, lightweight

Alan Garcia vs. Tomas Ornelas, 6 rounds, lightweight

Antonio Zepeda vs. Lemir Isom-Riley, 6 rounds, heavyweight 

Art Barrera Jr. vs. Michael Portales, 4 rounds, junior welterweight

This is what the fighters had to say:

Teofimo Lopez

“It’s a super fight. It’s great to be back. I’m here to do it for everyone and the next generation. I’m excited. Everybody is here to see greatness.”

“Talk is cheap. He can say what he wants, but it’s a lot different when they feel these punches. I love guys like him who think they can take this. But I’m ‘The Takeover.’”

“I’m not one dimensional. I’m universal. I’ve got plans from A to Z. I’ve been training since last August. So, I’m ready.”

Jamaine Ortiz

“I’m feeling great. I’m ready to put on a show and have some fun. That’s all I’m here to do, to have some fun. I’m excited to be crowned world champion. My time is coming. This Thursday, I will be crowned the new champ at 140.”

“I’m bringing my heart. I’m bringing everything, my soul, my whole body. I’m willing to risk my life in the ring. He beat me before. I still have that in mind. So, I’m going to avenge that loss.”

Keyshawn Davis

“I feel excited. I feel good. I can’t wait for Thursday. I’m looking forward to an amazing performance. I’m trying to stop Pedraza. He’s only been stopped once, by another Davis. Now it’s going to happen with a Davis from a new generation. I feel like this is my breakout fight. It’s going to put me at the top level.“

“He has experience, but I’ve dealt with that before. It doesn’t make a difference. It’s just another fighter and another opponent coming to win. This is going to be a fight. I finally feel like I’m going to be in there with someone who can really fight. Whatever game plan he has, I feel like he’s going to test me. And I’m going to rise to the occasion.”

Jose Pedraza 

“It’s been a year since I fought, so I’m happy to be back. I can’t wait to fight Keyshawn Davis.”

“Keyshawn is an excellent boxer, but I have more  experience. He has a lot of experience, too, but as an amateur. He has a typical North American style, so I expect a good fight from him.”

“I feel stronger at lightweight. This is my division. When I moved up to junior welterweight, it wasn’t because I couldn’t make the weight. I had a goal of becoming a three-weight world champion.”

Alan Garcia

“I’m very excited to be on another great Top Rank card. I’m ready to show what a kid from Kansas can do. In every camp, I work on hurting my opponent, but I’m always prepared to go the distance.”

Charlie Sheehy

“I feel good to be fighting in my first eight-rounder. I’m meant for more rounds as I’ll be able to finally implement a game plan and break people down.”

Abdullah Mason

“I’ve been ready to fight eight rounds for a while now. I’m looking forward to longer fights and more durable opponents so I can work towards breaking them down.”

Javier Martinez

“I’ve watched a lot of film, and I’m prepared to do what I gotta do. I don’t like to predict. But with the way I’ve prepared, I’ll be looking to finish it soon.”



Teofimo Lopez: “There Will Definitely Be A Knockout!”

LAS VEGAS (Feb. 2, 2024) —The Showman is ready to deliver a spectacle.

Teofimo Lopez will defend his WBO and Ring Magazine junior welterweight world titles against Jamaine Ortiz on Thursday, Feb. 8 at Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

In the 10-round lightweight co-feature, U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis steps up against former two-division world champion Jose Pedraza.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Takeover Promotions and CES Boxing, tickets are on sale now at AXS.com. 
 
Lopez-Ortiz and Davis-Pedraza will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

Lopez (19-1, 13 KOs) captured the IBF lightweight world title in December 2019 via second-round knockout victory against Richard Commey. In October 2020, he beat Vasiliy Lomachenko to securing the WBA, WBO, and WBC Franchise titles, but lost them to George Kambosos Jr. by a stunning split decision 13 months later. He moved up to junior welterweight with a seventh-round TKO against Pedro Campa in August 2022 and defeated Sandor Martin via split decision that December. In his last fight, Lopez shocked the boxing world by defeating former undisputed champ Josh Taylor to earn the WBO and Ring Magazine titles. 

Ortiz (17-1-1, 8 KOs) dropped a competitive 12-round decision to pound-for-pound great Vasiliy Lomachenko in October 2022 before returning 11 months later to secure a 10-round decision over Antonio Moran in his junior welterweight debut.

Following a recent training session at the Top Rank Gym in Las Vegas, this is what Lopez had to say:

“Before all of this and before I fought Josh Taylor, I used to take a break. I used to not really train so much. I used to not always be in the gym. But after I got everything back and became a two-division world champion, I started staying in the gym. My trainer, who is my father, always wanted me to stay in the gym. So, I started doing that last August. Since then, I’ve gotten faster. I’ve gotten much stronger. My I.Q. is much sharper. And it’s because I haven’t stopped training since August of last year. And I’m not going to stop. After I beat Jamaine Ortiz, then I will keep staying in the gym.”
 
“The end result is that ‘The Showman’ is returning. There will definitely be a knockout. It’s not going the distance. I’m not going to leave it in the judges’ hands at all. So, everyone tune in, and get your popcorn ready.”
 
“It’s been a long journey. And I know what it takes. I don’t want to be known as a fighter who knows how to get to the top but doesn’t know how to keep it. So, I want everyone to tune in so they can see how much I truly love the sport of boxing.”
 



Jamaine Ortiz: “I’m Ready To Be World Champion!”

LAS VEGAS (Feb. 1, 2024) — Jamaine Ortiz is ready to settle unfinished business on the biggest stage of his career.

Ortiz will challenge WBO and Ring Magazine junior welterweight world champion Teofimo Lopez on Thursday, Feb. 8 at Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

In the 10-round lightweight co-feature, U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis steps up against former two-division world champion Jose Pedraza.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Takeover Promotions and CES Boxing, tickets are on sale now at AXS.com. 

Lopez-Ortiz and Davis-Pedraza will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

Ortiz (17-1-1, 8 KOs), from Worcester, Massachusetts, enters his first world championship opportunity riding a wave of momentum. At lightweight, he defeated top contender Nahir Albright and former world champion Jamel Herring in consecutive fights before dropping a competitive 12-round decision to pound-for-pound great Vasiliy Lomachenko in October 2022. Almost 11 months after the Lomachenko defeat, he secured a 10-round decision over Antonio Moran.

Following a recent training session at the Top Rank Gym in Las Vegas, this is what Ortiz had to say:

“I can do a lot of things in the ring that people haven’t seen yet. On February 8, people are going to see what I can do in there. When the opposition is better, I fight better, and I believe Teofimo Lopez is going to bring the best out of me. I’m going to show my skills and athleticism on fight night.”

“I think I’m more athletic and have more speed than Teofimo. I have a better jab and movement. I have a lot of advantages that will show when we fight.”

“I’m ready to be world champion. I didn’t want any more tune-up fights. I demanded the big fights, and this is a big fight. I’m here to build a legacy in the sport, and this is a legacy fight.”

“I feel great at 140 pounds. I don’t need to sacrifice as much as I did when I fought at lightweight. I’m going to feel a lot better in the ring, and that is going to show in my performance on February 8.”



Top Rank Presents Action-Packed Double Header: Lopez vs. Ortiz, Davis vs. Pedraza, Thurs., Feb. 8 at 10:30p

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN presented by AutoZone: Lopez vs. Ortiz will be presented live this Thursday, February 8, at 10:30 p.m. ET/ 7:30 p.m. PT, on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ from Michelob ULTRA Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada. This special Thursday night event precedes Super Bowl LVIII, which unfolds Sunday, February 11 at Allegiant Stadium. This marks the first time the championship will be hosted in Las Vegas and features a showdown between the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs.

In the main event, lineal junior welterweight champion, Teofimo Lopez, will defend his WBO and Ring Magazine titles against Jamaine Ortiz.

Lopez (19-1, 13 KOs) moved up to junior welterweight in August 2022 with a seventh-round TKO against Pedro Campa and a split decision over Spanish southpaw Sandor Martin that December. In his latest display of exceptional skill, Lopez upset former undisputed champion Josh Taylor to capture the WBO and Ring Magazine titles last June. Competing in his first world title bout, Ortiz (17-1-1, 8 KOs), a seven-year pro from Worcester, Massachusetts, is coming off a one-sided points verdict win over Antonio Moran last September. In 2022, Ortiz won two out of three including a victory over former world champion Jamel “Semper Fi’ Herring before giving former pound-for-pound king Vasilily Lomachenko all he could handle across 12 rounds in a close decision loss.

In the 10-round lightweight co-feature, U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis faces Puerto Rican former two-division world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza.

Davis (9-0, 6 KOs), a silver medalist at the Tokyo Olympics, has graduated from prospect to contender and is inching closer to a world title opportunity. He had a standout 2023, including a devastating ninth-round TKO over former world title challenger Anthony Yigit.

Pedraza (29-5-1, 14 KOs), captured the WBO lightweight world title in August 2018. After losing the title in a unification showdown against Lomachenko, he moved up to 140 pounds. Pedraza returns to the lightweight division in hopes of another world title run.

Undercard action exclusively on ESPN+ begins at 6:25 p.m. ET/ 3:25 p.m. PT and features a wide range of up-and-coming talent.

Calling the action will be ESPN’s Joe Tessitore, Hall of Famer, Timothy Bradley, Jr., Mark Kriegel, and Bernardo Osuna. 

Ahead of the blockbuster Top Rank event on February 8, ESPN will air three new original programs:

Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz

Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits

Pressure: Keyshawn Davis

  • Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz: a 30-minute all-access preview that will take fight fans inside both training camps ahead of the Jr. Welterweight World Championship main event.  Two-division world titlist and current WBO junior welterweight king Teofimo Lopez (19-1, 13 KO) defends his crown against Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (17-1-1, 8 KO).
  • Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits: a 30-minute retrospective hosted by Crystina Poncher including the biggest fights and moments so far in Teofimo’s young career. Fight fans will get to re-live the highlight-reel knockouts that set Lopez on a fast track to superstardom, including the night Lopez won his first world championship at Madison Square Garden against Richard Commey, the moment he became a pound-for-pound force and unified world champion over Vasiliy Lomachenko, and his most recent masterclass against former undisputed champion Josh Taylor.
  • Pressure: Keyshawn Davis: a 30-minute look back at the most recent outing for one of Top Rank’s brightest blue-chip prospects. The show features a fight-night peek behind the curtain at “The Businessman” from his October 14th featured bout in the Lone Star State on the Janibek-Gualtieri undercard. Davis returns to action against former two-division world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (29-5-1, 14 KO).

 Original Programming (All Times ET)

Date Program Network Time
Sat., Feb 3  Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz ESPN 2 8:00 a.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 8:30 a.m.
Sun., Feb 4  Pressure: Keyshawn Davis 12:30 a.m.
Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz ESPN2 1:00 a.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 1:30 a.m.
Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz 3:00 a.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 3:30 a.m.
Pressure: Keyshawn Davis ESPNEWS 5:30 a.m.
Mon., Feb 5  Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz ESPN2 1:00 a.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 1:30 a.m.
Pressure: Keyshawn Davis 2:00 a.m.
Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz 5:30 a.m.
Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz ESPNEWS 8:00 p.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 8:30 p.m.
Pressure: Keyshawn Davis 10:00 p.m.
Tues., Feb 6  Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz ESPNEWS 12:00 a.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 12:30 a.m.
Pressure: Keyshawn Davis 1:00 a.m.
Pressure: Keyshawn Davis ESPN2 4:30 a.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 5:00 a.m.
Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz 5:30 a.m.
Pressure: Keyshawn Davis ESPNEWS 8:00 p.m.
Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz 10:00 p.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 10:30 p.m.
Wed., Feb 7  Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits ESPNEWS 1:00 a.m.
Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz ESPN2 3:30 a.m.
Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz ESPNEWS 10:00 p.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 10:30 p.m.
Thurs., Feb 8  Pressure: Keyshawn Davis ESPNEWS 12:30 a.m.
Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz 1:00 a.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 1:30 a.m.
Pressure: Keyshawn Davis 8:30 a.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 9:00 a.m.
Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz 9:30 a.m.
Pressure: Keyshawn Davis 7:00 p.m.
Teofimo Lopez: Greatest Hits 7:30 p.m.
Blood, Sweat & Tears: Lopez vs. Ortiz 8:00 p.m.

ESPN.com: Bradley’s Breakdown ahead of the fight.

ESPN+: On Demand Shows, Archives & Premium Articles

Follow @ESPNRingside: Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) TikTok

Lopez vs. Ortiz (All Times ET)

Date Time Event Fights Title Platform
Tue. Feb 6 3 p.m. Main Event Press Conference — —  ESPN+
Wed. Feb 7 3 p.m. Weigh-in — —
Thu. Feb 8 10:30 p.m. Main Teofimo Lopez (C) vs. Jamaine Ortiz WBO Jr. Welterweight ESPN, ESPN Deportes, ESPN+ (simulcast) 
Co-Feature Keyshawn Davis vs. Jose Pedraza —
6:25 p.m. Feature George Acosta vs. Rene Tellez Giron   ESPN+
Undercard Javier Martinez vs. Raul Salomon
Undercard Abdullah Mason vs. Benjamin Gurment
Undercard Charlie Sheehy vs. Abdel Sauceda
Undercard Alan Garcia vs. Tomas Ornelas
Undercard Art Barrera Jr. vs. Michael Portales
Undercard Antonio Zepeda vs. Lemir Isom-Rile


February 8: Teofimo Lopez-Jamaine Ortiz & Keyshawn Davis-Jose Pedraza Doubleheader Kicks Off Big Game Weekend at Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (Jan. 4, 2024) — The lineal junior welterweight king is ready for a super show.

Teofimo Lopez will defend his WBO and Ring Magazine titles against Jamaine Ortiz on Thursday, Feb. 8, at Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. Lopez-Ortiz headlines an action-packed televised doubleheader that kicks off Big Game Weekend.

In the 10-round lightweight co-feature, U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis faces Puerto Rican former two-division world champion Jose “Sniper” Pedraza. 

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Takeover Promotions and CES Boxing, tickets go on sale Friday, Jan. 5 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased at AXS.com. 

Lopez-Ortiz and Davis-Pedraza will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

“Teofimo Lopez is among the best fighters in the world and always wants to fight the best available opponent. Jamaine Ortiz is a supreme talent who fits the bill,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “I believe Keyshawn Davis is a future world champion, but you can never count out a skilled two-weight world champion like Jose Pedraza. What a fantastic doubleheader for the fans watching on ESPN and at Michelob ULTRA Arena.”

Lopez (19-1, 13 KOs) captured the IBF lightweight world title by defeating Richard Commey via second-round knockout in December 2019. The following October, he bested pound-for-pound king Vasiliy Lomachenko to win the WBA, WBO, and WBC Franchise titles. Thirteen months later, he lost the belts via shocking split decision to George Kambosos Jr. The 26-year-old then moved up to junior welterweight in August 2022 with a seventh-round TKO against Pedro Campa and a split decision over Spanish southpaw Sandor Martin that December. In his latest fistic tour de force, Lopez upset former undisputed champion Josh Taylor to capture the WBO and Ring Magazine titles.

Lopez said. “February 8 at Mandalay Bay, ‘The Takeover’ will entertain inside that squared circle as only I can! To the boxing fans around the world, I look to not only dominate and break down Jamaine Ortiz, but to do it in such a fashion that my division will be put on alert.“

“Jamaine is tough. I would know, because I faced him back in the amateur days in 2015 for the National Golden Gloves Championship. I’ll show the world that champions don’t flinch when faced with challenges. They rise and shine the brightest when the stakes are highest. This one is for all my people on the Takeover Express! Let’s show the world once again what real boxing looks like.”

Ortiz (17-1-1, 8 KOs), a seven-year pro, secured the NABF lightweight title by outpointing Nahir Albright in February 2022. The Worcester, Massachusetts, native then notched a decision win against former world champion Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring that May and rounded off the year with an exceptional showing against Lomachenko. Ortiz dropped the tightly contested battle to “Loma” by unanimous decision but responded with a one-sided points verdict over Antonio Moran in September.

Ortiz said, “This is the most important fight of my career. It’s my first world title bout. I believe this fight will bring out the very best in me, and I’m looking forward to coming home as the new champion!”

Davis (9-0, 6 KOs), from Norfolk, Virginia, has graduated from prospect to contender and is inching closer to a world title opportunity. After going 3-0 as a pro, he captured a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. In November 2021, he signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank and has since tallied six victories. He had an active 2023 in which he stopped Anthony Yigit via ninth-round TKO in April and shut out Francesco Patera by 10-round decision in July. In October, he bested Philadelphia-born contender Nahir Albright by majority decision that was later ruled a no contest by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation due to a positive marijuana test.

“I have all the respect in the world for Jose Pedraza and what he’s accomplished in the pro game,” Davis said. “This is type of step up I need to get to the next level, and I know Pedraza will bring his A-game. It’s his last chance to get back to title contention, but I won’t let that happen. I will show out for the fans in Las Vegas and everyone watching on ESPN.”

Pedraza (29-5-1, 14 KOs), from Cidra, Puerto Rico, won the IBF junior lightweight world title against Andrey Klimov in June 2015 and made title defenses against Edner Cherry and Stephen Smith. He captured the WBO lightweight world title against Rey Beltran in August 2018. After losing the title in a unification showdown against Lomachenko, he moved up to 140 pounds, where he a faced the likes of Jose Zepeda, Jose Ramirez, Richard Commey, Lindolfo Delgado and Arnold Barboza Jr. Pedraza returns to the lightweight division in hopes of another world title run.

Pedraza said, “Keyshawn Davis is going to experience what it’s like to face a two-division world champion. He’s never faced a boxer of my caliber, nor has he faced anyone even close to the caliber of my toughest opponents. He wants to continue climbing up the ranks, but on February 8, he’ll be falling off the ladder.”

The ESPN+-streamed undercard features a gamut of up-and-coming talents.

19-year-old lightweight phenom, Emiliano Fernando Vargas (8-0, 7 KOs), son of former junior middleweight world champion Fernando Vargas, will see action in a six-round clash against Tomas Ornelas (7-3, 5 KOs). Vargas went 6-0 with five knockouts in his sophomore year as a pro and is coming off a second-round destruction of Brandon Mendoza in November at T-Mobile Arena.

Lightweight prodigy Abdullah Mason (11-0, 9 KOs) will fight Benjamin Gurment (8-0-3, 5 KOs) in his first scheduled eight-rounder. Mason will look to capitalize on his 5-0 2023 campaign, which included a second-round TKO versus Jose Cardenas in November. 

Unbeaten middleweight Javier “Milwaukee Made” Martinez (9-0-1, 3 KOs) will take on Raul Salomon (12-2, 10 KOs) in an eight-rounder. Martinez dropped Isaiah Wise three times en route to a first-round knockout in November. 

Former Team USA amateur standout Charlie Sheehy (8-0, 5 KOs) will step up to the eight-round distance for the first time. Sheehy vanquished Jesus Vasquez Jr. by unanimous decision in November. 

Unbeaten lightweight prospect Alan “Kid Kansas” Garcia (10-0, 8 KOs), the power-punching dynamo from Ulysses, Kansas, sees action in a six-rounder.

Former national amateur champion Art Barrera Jr. (2-0, 2 KOs) returns to the ring in a four-round junior welterweight fight. 



Jamaine Ortiz: “I’m no longer waiting – I’m calling these guys out!”

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz will be a keenly interested observer at the Shakur Stevenson vs. Edwin de los Santos fight in Las Vegas tonight.  The bout takes place at the T-Mobile Arena with the vacant WBC Lightweight title on the line.
While the 27-year-old contender will be rooting for his compatriot to pull off what would be a stunning upset against one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world, Ortiz is also excited at the possibility of matching his own skills against Stevenson.
    
“I’m rocking with de los Santos, but if Shakur wins, then I’d like to get in the ring against him in January or February,” said Ortiz (17-1-1, 8 KOs), whose uncle is part of Team de los Santos. 

A fight against Stevenson was almost a reality for Ortiz just a few months ago, when fellow lightweight contender Frank Martin pulled out of a fight against Shakur after first accepting it.  The move opened the possibility for Jamaine to finally fight for a world title. 

“We were very close to making a fight against Shakur happen,” explains Ortiz. “Shakur’s team were going down the rankings of the WBC, and everyone was turning the fight down.  I would’ve taken it, but de los Santos was one spot ahead of me in the rankings and he accepted the fight.” 

With de los Santos taking the fight, Ortiz went back to the drawing board.  But rather than sit back and wait for another opportunity to materialize, Jamaine decided to take matters into his own hands.

“I’m no longer waiting,” emphasizes Ortiz.  “I’m out here initiating my next move.  I’m calling these guys out.  I’m tired of waiting.”

Ortiz’s last fight was a 10-round unanimous decision win in September against battle tested Mexican contender Antonio Moran.  The bout took place at a catchweight of 138 pounds, leading many to speculate that the Worcester native’s days as a lightweight were over. 

While Ortiz admits that he is considering a move to 140, he insists that there are still a few big fights that would motivate him back to the lightweight division.

“My last fight was at 138 so that I could see how I felt at the higher weight,” says Ortiz.  “If there’s a chance that I can face Shakur or Tank Davis, I’ll do it at 135.  If not, I’m looking to go to 140 and would like to fight Teofimo Lopez.” 

In addition to Stevenson and Davis at lightweight and Lopez at junior welterweight, The Technician is eyeing the winner of the WBC junior welterweight title bout on December 9th between champion Regis Prograis and former undisputed lightweight king Devin Haney.

“I would 100% be interested in the winner of Prograis vs. Haney, but if Haney wins, I know Devin doesn’t want to fight me,” laments Ortiz.  “Every time I’m in Las Vegas, I go to the Top Rank gym, and every time I mention it to his people, they tell me that it’s not going to happen.  He won’t take the fight.” 

Haney aside, there are many options available for Ortiz in the future.  In the meantime, he will watch tonight’s fight intently and see how things shake out.

“I’m out here with team de los Santos.  My uncle is working the corner, so I’m here to support my fellow Dominican,” says Ortiz. “I think de los Santos’ chances are very good.  I think that he can live up to the moment and surprise Shakur.”

If that doesn’t happen, however, Ortiz will be ringside, willing and able to challenge Stevenson.

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.INFORMATIONCES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the East Coast.  Founded in 1992 by Jimmy Burchfield Sr., CES Boxing has promoted many world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, Chad Dawson and Ray Oliveira. CES Boxing has promoted such super fights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones Jr.”, “Mayweather vs. Gotti III” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.
 


Jamaine Ortiz: “After September 15th, I’m ready for anyone!”

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – Top lightweight contender Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz (16-1-1, 8 KOs) returns to the ring this Friday to face battle-tested veteran Antonio Moran (29-5-1, 20 KOs). The bout takes place at the American Bank Center and will be televised live on ESPN+.

“Training has been fabulous,” said Ortiz 10 days before the fight as he wrapped up training camp. “I’m very excited to put on a show and demonstrate how well my training went.”

The 27-year-old makes his first appearance of 2023 after an injury caused him to miss weight in June, forcing the cancellation of a bout that was to take place at Madison Square Garden on the Josh Taylor – Teofimo Lopez undercard.

Now fully healed, the Puerto Rican and Dominican boxer made a few changes to his training camp to ensure that he comfortably makes weight on September 15th.

“I feel confident making weight,” emphasized Ortiz about any doubts that he’ll make the contract limit of 138 lbs. “I hired another nutritionist, but the weight issue in June had more to do with an injury and not being able to work out the same way than it had to do with weight.”

In addition to hiring a nutritionist, Ortiz moved his training camp from his native Worcester to Las Vegas.

“I have less distractions training in Vegas than when I’m training in Worcester,” explained Ortiz of the move. “The intensity of the sparring is a little different too.”

Ortiz also took the step of completing a pre-training camp in Dubai, where he’s been spending more time of late.

“It was random,” says Ortiz about his initial decision to visit Dubai, the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. “I enjoy traveling and taking advantage of some leisure time between fights to see the world. I just decided to pack my bags and go there. The Eastern part of the world is very different from the Western part. It gave me a whole different perspective. I liked Dubai a lot and decided to train there for a while before coming to Vegas.”

Ortiz believes that these changes will lead to an impressive performance against Antonio Moran, who has faced the likes of undisputed lightweight champion Devin Haney and top junior welterweight contender Arnold Barboza, Jr. However, Ortiz feels that he is the one coming into this fight with an edge in experience, especially considering that his last 6 opponents sport a combined record of 102-13-2.

“He’s a good fighter with decent power,” says Ortiz of Moran, who is a 35-fight veteran with 20 knockouts in 29 wins. “He almost has twice as many fights as me, but over the last year I’ve been in the ring with 2 former world champions, one of which is probably a sure shot hall-of-famer.”

Indeed, Ortiz burst on to the scene in 2022, when he won a 10-round unanimous decision over former WBO Super Featherweight champion Jamel Herring and gave future hall-of-famer Vasyl Lomachenko all he could handle in a close 12-round decision loss. Ortiz learned a lot from these experiences, particularly in the fight against “The Matrix”.

“Lomachenko sets things up well and picks up the pace towards the end of each round,” says Ortiz of his first 12-round fight against the former multi-division champion. “I would love to avenge that loss. I definitely learned how to pace myself, how to finish strong, and how important it is to win those championship rounds.”

While Ortiz is disappointed that he dropped a close decision to Lomachenko, it gave him an opportunity to gauge his performance against that of undisputed lightweight champion Devin Haney, who won a highly disputed decision over Lomachenko in May.

“I felt like my fight was a lot closer than Devin’s,” says Ortiz. “I felt like I landed a lot cleaner shots in my fight against Loma, and Devin Haney got hit a little too much in their fight. Loma landed a few clean shots on me towards the end of our fight, but he never landed flurries or threw 5 and 6 punch combinations the way he did against Haney. He would only throw one or two punches at a time against me because he was wary of what I was throwing back.”

Antonio Moran will be the second straight opponent that Ortiz faces who has also shared the ring with Haney. When Moran faced Haney in 2019, he was knocked out in spectacular fashion by “The Dream” in round 7. Ortiz, however, is not interested in trying to one-up Devin.

“Styles make fights, so I don’t try to outshine anybody else,” explains Ortiz. “I just compete with myself. I’m going to put on a great show, come out victorious, and be the best version of myself on Friday.”

And while Ortiz is solely focused on Antonio Moran on Friday, he knows that an impressive victory will lead him to high profile bouts for one of the lightweight belts expected to be vacated by Haney once Devin officially moves up to the junior welterweight division.

“After September 15th, the only guys I have my eyes on are ‘Tank’ Davis, Shakur Stevenson and Lomachenko,” says ‘The Technician’. “Me and Kambosos would also be a great fight. Regardless of who you put in front of me, I see me winning. I really don’t care as long as I get a world title shot ASAP. I’m ready for anyone.”

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the East Coast. Founded in 1992 by Jimmy Burchfield Sr., CES Boxing has promoted many world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, Chad Dawson and Ray Oliveira. CES Boxing has promoted such super fights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones Jr.”, “Mayweather vs. Gotti III” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.



Jamaine Ortiz explains circumstances that led to withdrawal from Galindo bout

Jamaine Ortiz (16-1-1, 8 KOs) was looking to put the lightweight division on notice tomorrow night at Madison Square Garden’s Theater on the undercard of the highly anticipated bout between Josh Taylor and Teofimo Lopez.

Unfortunately for fight fans, “The Technician” was forced to withdraw from his lightweight bout against Humberto Galindo due to an injury suffered during training camp that impacted his ability to make weight.

“I injured my back a few weeks ago and it interrupted my training,” explained the disappointed Worcester native. “For 3 weeks, I had severe back spasms and couldn’t train properly. I tried to push my body to the limit as soon as I felt better, but I hit a wall and the last few pounds just wouldn’t come off. I work with a dietician and follow a strict systematic plan to make weight, but I couldn’t follow it properly this time because of the amount of weight I had to lose after the injury.”

The 27-year-old hopes to return to the ring as soon as possible and has a message for the fans who traveled to New York to see him perform on Saturday.

“My team is working on a date in August,” stated Ortiz, who is co-promoted by CES Boxing and Top Rank. “My sincerest apologies to my opponent, my promoters CES and Top Rank, Jimmy Burchfield and everyone who made their way to New York City to see me fight. I tried my best to make weight despite the interruption, but I couldn’t make it safely.”

Ortiz emphasized that he will remain at lightweight as he is confident that he can make the limit given a normal training camp. Stay tuned for a new date over the next few weeks.

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the East Coast. Founded in 1992 by Jimmy Burchfield Sr., CES Boxing has promoted many world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, and Ray Oliveira. CES Boxing has promoted such super fights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones Jr.” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.



Jamaine Ortiz to Devin Haney: “Let’s Make it Happen!”

Moments after lightweight king Devin Haney successfully defended his undisputed title against Vasyl Lomachenko, the Ukrainian phenom was asked how Haney stacks up with the other fighters he’s faced.

Rather than answering the question directly, ‘Loma’ seemed to suggest that lightweight contender Jamaine Ortiz was a tougher foe.  

“You know what?  I want to see Haney fight Ortiz,” answered Lomachenko.  “It would be very interesting.”

Lomachenko would know.  ‘The Technician’ gave Loma all he could handle last October, losing a close decision by the slimmest of margins.  

Ortiz, who returns to the ring on June 10th on the Josh Taylor vs. Teofimo Lopez undercard at Madison Square Garden, is up for the task, posting on Instagram that he thought Lomachenko won on Saturday and challenging Haney to face him next.  

“I think it’s a great fight,” stated Ortiz of a fight between him and Haney.  “I would give [Haney] a run for his money.  Let’s make it happen!”

When asked to elaborate, the 27-year-old doubled down on his chances of dethroning Haney.

“You can go back to when I fought in 2020 – I was saying that I wanted to fight Haney,” explains Ortiz.  “Styles make fights, and I always knew based on our styles that I would beat him.  Lomachenko knows that I would whoop Haney’s @ss too.”

In addition to the contrast in styles, the Worcester, MA native gained confidence from how Haney fared against Lomachenko compared to his performance against the Ukrainian.

“Lomachenko controlled the fight and landed way more clean shots against Haney than he did against me,” states Ortiz.  “Lomachenko never got behind me, spun me or controlled the pace with me like he did with Haney.  I was dictating most of our fight.  Loma landed a few clean shots on me towards the end of our fight, but he never landed flurries or threw 5 and 6 punch combinations the way he did against Haney.  He would only throw one or two punches at a time against me because he was wary of what I was throwing back.”      

Ortiz, who is now co-promoted by Top Rank and CES Boxing, is more than ready to face “The Dream” for the undisputed lightweight title.  The question remains: Is Haney going to accept the challenge?  

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the East Coast.  Founded in 1992 by Jimmy Burchfield Sr., CES Boxing has promoted many world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, and Ray Oliveira. CES Boxing has promoted such super fights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones Jr.” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.



Lightweight Contender Jamaine Ortiz Signs Multi-Fight Co-Promotional Contract with Top Rank

NEW YORK (May 4, 2023) — Lightweight contender Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz is set to take his career to new heights ahead of an action-packed fight night in New York City.

Ortiz has signed a multi-fight co-promotional contract with Top Rank, who will work in conjunction with Jimmy Burchfield’s CES Boxing. Ortiz will return in a 10-round clash against an opponent to be named Saturday, June 10 at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. His fight will top the ESPN+-streamed undercard of the junior welterweight showdown between WBO and Ring Magazine world champion Josh Taylor and former unified and lineal lightweight king Teofimo Lopez.

In the 10-round co-feature, Puerto Rican junior middleweight phenom Xander Zayas will take on Ronald “Diablo” Cruz.

Taylor-Lopez and Zayas-Cruz will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. 

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

Ortiz (16-1-1, 8 KOs) is a native of Worcester, Massachusetts, who is of Puerto Rican and Dominican descent. A seven-year veteran, he experienced his most significant year as a pro in 2022. Ortiz secured the NABF lightweight title in February after outpointing Nahir Albright, then followed up with a 10-round unanimous decision victory against former world champion Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring in May. In October, the 27-year-old used his size and strength to take an early lead against former lightweight champion Vasiliy “Loma” Lomachenko before losing the tightly contested battle via unanimous decision.

Ortiz said, “It feels great to join a stable that has created so many Hall of Fame champions. I’m looking forward to becoming their next one. It’s been a long journey fighting my way up to get the respect I deserve. With Top Rank working with CES, I’m now hoping for bigger and better fights.

“It feels good to be back in New York to get some redemption after the loss to Lomachenko. I gained many new fans that night, and a lot of people thought I won. People know I’m the real deal now. I’m motivated to improve and take over the lightweight division. I only took 10 days off after that fight and went straight to the gym. I’m coming to make a statement on June 10 that I’m not to be played with.”

Ortiz joins a previously-announced ESPN+-streamed undercard featuring two all-Puerto Rico battles.

Henry “Moncho” Lebron (17-0, 10 KOs) will lock horns against Christian Tapia (15-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round junior lightweight tilt. Lebron is coming off wide decision wins over Andy Vences and Luis Lebron, while Tapia looks to rebound from a competitive decision defeat to Cleveland standout Thomas Mattice.

Rising prospect Omar Rosario (10-0, 3 KOs) squares off against Jan Carlos Rivera (8-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight bout. Rivera has won four straight fights after suffering a decision loss inside the MGM Grand Las Vegas Bubble.

The loaded undercard also features a pair of rising stars in eight-rounders, both of whom fought on the Shakur Stevenson-Shuichiro Yoshino bill in April. 

Brooklyn featherweight prodigy Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (7-0, 4 KOs), who knocked out Brandon Chambers in the second round, will face an opponent to be named.

Polish heavyweight dynamo DamianKnyba (11-0, 7 KOs), who stopped Curtis Harper in the eighth round, will fight Helaman Olguin (9-5-1, 4 KOs). Olguin was last seen dropping a unanimous decision to former Tyson Fury foe Otto Wallin in January. 



Renowned lightweight, ‘The Technician’ Ortiz, takes to social media to call out fellow 135-pounders in the never-ending quest to showcase his talents in 2023

Worcester, MA, lightweight Jamaine Ortiz (@JaimaineOrtizR) has built his career – which now has him ranked seventh in the world among 135-pounders by the WBC – on substance over style, strategy in lieu of extravagance.

Often referred to as one of the more soft-spoken fighters in today’s game, Ortiz (16-1-1) has patiently waited for the much-anticipated payoff all prizefighters dream of while tactically and efficiently picking apart nearly every challenger who’s crossed his path since launching his professional career in 2017.

But at 26 and on the cusp of entering his prime, “The Technician” can’t – and won’t – wait much longer. Five months ago, Ortiz starred on one of the sport’s biggest stages: New York City, Madison Square Garden, headlining a worldwide televised event against one of boxing’s all-time greats, Vasyl Lomachenko. Ortiz lost a close decision, but the moments of brilliance sprinkled across 12, hard-fought rounds vaulted the Worcester native from commonly-searched social media keyword to legitimate lightweight contender.

As such, Ortiz is now anxiously – and, quite frankly, impatiently – waiting for the next big opportunity. With the scheduled April 22 lightweight super fight between undefeated titans Ryan Garcia and Gervonta Davis hogging most of the headlines in the 135-pound division, Ortiz has deviated from the usual path of biding his time and is instead aggressively pursuing his rightful place among boxing’s elite lightweights. This past weekend, Ortiz tweeted his frustrations at those who continue to cherry-pick opponents while ducking real fights along with the powers that be who are willfully protecting their high-priced investments from the wrath of “The Technician.”

“To me, it’s very upsetting,” Ortiz said. “I came off a great performance against Lomachenko. Most of the world thought I won. The rankings have me amongst the top 10 in the world. But there’s no fight for me? No good opponent for me? It’s kind of wild.
“There are so many great fights that can be made right now. Me versus George Kambosos. Me versus Isaac Cruz. Joseph Diaz. Javier Fortuna. There are so many guys with big names who are willing to fight. Why can’t we put these fights together?”

And if the buzz from the Lomachenko fight happens to be wearing off five months later, Ortiz added, “then it’s my job is to put myself back in [the conversation].
“One of the things I’ve learned over the years is to keep myself relevant. That’s why I tweeted what I did. I let my feelings out. I understand the business. I have to start poking these guys. The fans and boxing journalists are who make things happen. If the fans are demanding a certain fight and the promoter knows it’s guaranteed to make money, then the promoter will make it happen. If the writers talk about it enough, it begins to make sense. Fighters need to be vocal. Someone has to talk about it.”

Ortiz’s promoter, CES Boxing president Jimmy Burchfield Sr., is eager to join the conversation. Said Burchfield: “From Day 1, Jamaine Ortiz has answered the bell and willingly stepped inside the ring no matter the challenge. He doesn’t duck opportunities. He isn’t afraid to take on anyone. All he’s asking for is the opportunity to showcase his ability against the best in the world and be given the same opportunity as his peers. Jamaine is no longer boxing’s best-kept secret. After what he did against Lomachenko, the secret’s out, and it’s time he gets the opportunities he deserves.”

Social media can be influential in determining which fighters get pushed to the top of the conversation, and Ortiz is cognizant of what is being said and who is doing the talking, even if he isn’t as active online as other fighters. “The Technician” noted a recent interview with former two-time super featherweight Shakur Stevenson, whose wish list for 2023 included a potential showdown with Ortiz, whom he described as a “tough fight for whoever.” And after visiting the Top Rank Boxing Gym in Las Vegas, Ortiz is even more convinced his performance against Lomachenko has forced other 135-pounders to shy away from a potential matchup.

“Shakur Stevenson, he puts respect on my name,” Ortiz said. “They know me. They know the type of fighter I am. No one is calling me an easy opponent or a pushover. If I’m an easier fight, then why aren’t they calling me name? I want to know who in the world has ever called me out to fight. Nahir Albright might be the only one who’s ever said something. We originally had that fight on Triller [on November 28, 2020], then he pulled out, but we got it back [on Showtime in 2022] and I beat him up.

“When have I ever said no to fight? At the same time, who’s calling me out? With me being at this level now, who dares call my name?”

Of late, Ortiz has fought the best of the best; his last five opponents boast a combined record of 80-8-2, including the dynamic Lomachenko, whom many felt Ortiz was on the verge of beating until the final three rounds. Ortiz still thinks he did enough from rounds 1 through 8 to earn the decision, but admits he lost the last three as Lomachenko found his second wind. Even in a losing effort, Ortiz’s stock rose that night, and “The Technician” is certain other prospects are going to be more selective in 2023 knowing his ability to push opponents to the limit. While being feared is certainly a compliment, it can also be detrimental to a young fighter’s progress.

“Why would promoters take a guy who they’ve invested time and money in and put him in there against something they know will beat him?” Ortiz said. “They won’t give me the opportunity to look good against a good opponent and build me up. Why not get me a world title?

“I’m not in a position to be used as an opponent. Every single time I’ve fought, from a performance level and an entertainment level, people always talk about me. Whether it’s Triller, Showtime, ESPN, I’m always going to be a trending topic. I don’t see why they wouldn’t want to continue to bring me up and have me fight when they know I put on a show. I’m not a boring fighter.”

Having expressed his thoughts publicly on one of the world’s largest platforms, Ortiz once again plays the waiting game as he seeks a career-changing opportunity in 2023. The difference now is Ortiz is more than willing to stir the pot if others aren’t willing to put their records – and reputations – on the line.

“I’ve waited a long time. I’m going on seven years as a pro. I’ve been very patient and I’ve been taking everything that comes my way,” Ortiz said. “I’ve been quiet a long time. Now I want to take a little bit more control of my career. Am I wrong for that? Am I wrong for trying to make fights happen or asking for the best?

“I won’t talk trash to a fighter for no reason. But how am I going to sell a fight? In this business, social media, twitter is the place to be. Journalists and boxing writers take what you post on social media and blow it up and circulate it through other media outlets. I have to put my voice out there. If no one wants to fight, then I have to poke at people. I don’t want to just wait, wait, wait and then regret it later.”

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions in the northeast and one of the few to successfully promote both mixed martial arts and professional boxing. Launched in 1992 by longtime boxing judge Jimmy Burchfield Sr., the promotion is the only in professional boxing to boast two reigning WBC Youth world champions in lightweight Jamaine Ortiz and featherweight Irvin Gonzalez. CES Boxing recently teamed with UFC FIGHT PASS, the world’s No. 1 streaming platform for combat sports, to showcase its events to a worldwide audience, and worked as a promotional consultant for the Mike Tyson-Roy Jones Jr. pay-per-view event in November of 2020.


Lomachenko Decisions Jamaine Ortiz

Vasiliy Lomachenko won a 12-round unanimous decision over Jamaine Ortiz in a lightweight bout that headlined a Top Rank show at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.

In round six, Lomanchenko had swelling under his right eye. Ortiz had swelling over his left eye.

Lomachenko landed 125 of 571 punches. Ortiz landed 122.

Lomachenko, 134.6 lbs of Akkerman, UKR won by scores of 117-111, 116-112 and 115-113 and is now 17-2. Ortiz, 134 lbs of Worcester, MA is 16-1-1.

Robeisy Ramirez stopped Jose Matias Romero in round five of a 10-round featherweight bout.

In round one, Ramirez dropped Romero with a straight left, In round nine, Ramirez turned up that pressure and landed a vicious flurry of punches that was capped off by a hard straight left and the fight was stopped at

Ramirez, 125.4 lbs of Cindhegos, CUB is 11-1 with seven knockouts. Romero, 127.4 lbs of Cordoba, ARG is 26-3.

Richard Torrez Jr. remained undefeated with a third round stoppage over Ahmed Hefny in a scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

In round one, Torrez landed a chopping left that sent Hefny to the canvas. In round two, Torrez dropped Hefny with a right hook to the body. In round three, Torrez continued to land power shots, and then landed a another right to the body that put Hefny down again, and the fight was stopped at 2:32,

Torrez, 229.4 lbs Tulac, CA is 4-0 with four knockouts. Hefny, 218 lbs of Egypt is 13-3.

Duke Ragan remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Luis Lebron in a featherweight bout.

Ragan, 128 lbs of Cincinnati, OH won by scores of 79-73, 78-74 and 77-75 and is now 8-0. Lebron, 128 lbs of Manuel Aprens, PR is 18-5-1.

Nico Ali Walsh remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Billy Wagner in a middleweight fight.

Walsh, 159 lbs of Las Vegas won by scores of 59-55 and 58-56 twice and is now 7-0. Wagner, 159 lbs of Browning, MT is 5-3.

Tiger Johnson remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Esteban Garcia in a junior welterweigt bout.

Johnson, 141.4 lbs of Cleveland won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 6-0. Garcia, 139.2 lbs of El Comino, CA is 15-2.

Troy Isley pounded out an eight-round unanimous decision over Quincy Levallais in a middleweight bout.

Isley, 159 lbs of from Alexandra, VA won by scores of 80-72 and 79-73 twice and is now 8-0. Levallais, 157,4 lbs of Panama City, FL is 14-4-1.

Good-looking prospect Abdullah Mason scored a fourth round stoppage over Angel Barrera in a scheduled six-round lightweight bout.

In round three, Mason dropped Barrera with a straight left. Seconds later, Mason landed a short left on the inside that put Barrera down again. The onslaught bloodied the left side of Barrera’s face.

In round four, Mason landed shots that had Barrera bouncing all over the ring and the out was stopped at 21 seonds.

Mason, 135.6 lbs of Cleveland is 5-0 with four knockouts. Barrera, 135 lbs of Chicago, IL is 4-1.

Haven Brady Jr. remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Eric Mondragon in a junior lightweight bout.

Brady, 131 lbs of Albany, GA won by scores of 79-73 twice and 78-74 and is now 8-0. Mondragon, 130.6 lbs of Maywood, CA is 7-1-1.



Weigh-In Results: Vasiliy Lomachenko vs. Jamaine Ortiz

•  Vasiliy Lomachenko 134.6 lbs  vs. Jamaine Ortiz 134 lbs

(Ortiz’s NABF Lightweight Title — 12 Rounds)

•   Robeisy Ramirez 125.6 lbs vs. Jose Matias Romero 127.4 lbs 
(Featherweight — 10 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 6:15 p.m. ET / 3:15 p.m. PT)

   •   Richard Torrez Jr. 229.4 lbs vs. Ahmed Hefny 218 lbs
 (Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

   •   Duke Ragan 128  lbs vs. Luis Lebron 128 lbs
 (Featherweight — 8 Rounds)

•    Nico Ali Walsh 159 lbs vs. Billy Wagner 159 lbs 
(Middleweight — 6 Rounds)

   •   Tiger Johnson 141.4 lbs vs. Esteban Garcia 139.2 lbs
 (Junior Welterweight — 6 Rounds)

   •    Troy Isley 159 lbs vs. Quincy Lavallais 157.4 lbs
 (Middleweight — 8 Rounds)

   •    Abdullah Mason 135.6 lbs vs. Angel Barrera 135 lbs
 (Lightweight — 6 Rounds)

   •    Haven Brady Jr. 131 lbs vs. Eric Mondragon 130.6 lbs
 (Junior Lightweight — 8 Rounds)

###

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VIDEO: Lomachenko vs Ortiz Final Press Conference



AUDIO: Jamaine Ortiz Confident in Beating Lomachenko





VIDEO: Jamaine Ortiz Confident in Beating Lomachenko



AUDIO: Vasiliy Lomachenko Previews His Fight against Jamaine Ortiz





VIDEO: Vasiliy Lomachenko Previews His Fight against Jamaine Ortiz



Press Conference Notes: Vasiliy Lomachenko Set For Jamaine Ortiz Showdown in Triumphant Ring Return

NEW YORK (Oct. 27, 2022) — Former three-weight world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko and undefeated upstart Jamaine Ortiz renewed acquaintances Thursday in New York City. The one-time sparring partners will clash in the 12-round lightweight main event Saturday evening at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. This fight could propel the winner to a shot at undisputed champion Devin “The Dream” Haney.

Lomachenko (16-2, 11 KOs) returns after serving a stint in a territorial defense battalion in his native Ukraine, a decision that delayed his quest for undisputed glory. Ortiz (16-0-1, 8 KOs) authored a career-best victory over former world champion Jamel Herring in May.

The 10-round featherweight co-features sees Cuban two-time Olympic gold medalist Robeisy Ramirez (10-1, 6 KOs) attempt to move closer to a title shot against late substitute Jose Matias Romero (26-2, 9 KOs).

Undercard action includes middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh (6-0, 5 KOs) and a quartet of U.S. Olympians from the Tokyo Games: silver medalists Duke Ragan (7-0, 1 KO) and Richard Torrez Jr. (3-0, 3 KOs), Tiger Johnson (5-0, 4 KOs), and Troy Isley (7-0, 4 KOs).

At the press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.Vasiliy Lomachenko

“I feel great. I feel good. I can’t wait to come back Saturday night at Madison Square Garden. I think it’s a special place for me. I’ve had a lot of fights there. So, it’s a lucky place for me.”

“For me, it was an easy decision [to not take the George Kambosos Jr. fight] because there was a war in my country. There was a war in my hometown. I needed to stay with my family and with our people and defend our country. You don’t think about boxing. You don’t think about your future. You just think about saving your life and saving your family. That’s it.”

“I just wanted to bring a bit of sports attention to our country. And Saturday, which is Sunday morning in Ukraine, I want the people to change their mind towards good emotions.”

“Sparring [against Ortiz] is different from competition because our conditioning is not at 100 percent, so Saturday night will be a very interesting fight. I’m focused on my job. I’m focused on my boxing. You can’t stop thinking about your country. It’s always on your mind. But now I’m focused, and I need to be focused because I’m an athlete. After the fight, I’ll go back to Ukraine and support my country.”

Jamaine Ortiz

“This fight means everything to me. This is something I’ve manifested into my life, eventually fighting Lomachenko. And the time has come here at the ‘Mecca of Boxing,’ Madison Square Garden. God has delivered everything I’ve asked for.”

“I learned a lot of things about myself in the Jamel Herring fight, as I do in every fight. I try to make improvements. I go back to the basics and fundamentals and try to master those skills. Saturday night you’re going to see the best Jamaine Ortiz.”

“I think the opponent in front of you brings out the type of fighter you are. I think Lomachenko is going to bring out the best Jamaine Ortiz. The fighter that everybody around me knows. You’re going to see the real ‘Technician’ on Saturday night.”

Robeisy Ramirez

“Well, it’s not a secret that Madison Square Garden is a mythical arena for boxing. But what actually brings out the best of me is the ring, not the arena.”

“I said that ‘the train is coming and it won’t be derailed’ because I want to fight for a world title. That’s what we hope for. After this fight, we’re expecting to fight for a world title.”

Jose Matias Romero

“This was an opportunity that was given to me. I plan on taking advantage of it. It’s a pleasure to be on this stage. And I look forward to this fight. I like to do my talking in the ring, but I’ve come very well prepared, thanks to my team. We had a great camp. But I think they are underestimating me.”

“Thank God, I have a great training team. I stay training. I never stop training. I have also had experience fighting in the United States before, so this is nothing new. The opportunity was there, and thank God it happened. And on top of that, it’s happening at Madison Square Garden, so I’m very happy.”

Richard Torrez Jr.

“Being a pro has been amazing. I come from a town where there are more cows than people. So, to be at a place like Madison Square Garden is incredible. It’s incredible to be able to have my team here as well. All these guys are Olympians. There’s nothing like it.”

Nico Ali Walsh

“From the very start, I knew who I was. I think people are starting to give me my own name. So, it’s not about me finding my own name. It’s about people accepting the fact that I knew who I was from the start. I got into boxing, and I know why I got into boxing. It’s just important to pay homage to my grandfather, but I’m doing my own thing with this.”

Tiger Johnson

“Life as a pro has been good. I’m just really excited to be on a card with my Olympic teammates. I had a real good camp with Nico. We’re going to put on a really good performance. I don’t really look for the knockout. I just can’t control my power sometimes, so it is what it is.”

Duke Ragan

“It’s an honor to be able to fight on a card with my fellow Olympians. The only time we ever fought together was on the USA team. It is a great feeling to do it professionally and go up the ranks together.”

Troy Isley

“I’ve always wanted to be with Top Rank. They’ve produced a lot of legends. I’m blessed to say that I can be one of the legends in the making. My goal is to focus on boxing. I’m not really too worried about the trolls and all that. If you’ve got trolls and haters, you’re obviously doing something right.”

Saturday, October 29

 ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)

Vasiliy Lomachenko vs. Jamaine Ortiz, 12 rounds, NABF Lightweight Title

Robeisy Ramirez vs. Jose Matias Romero, 10 rounds, featherweight

ESPN+ (6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT)

Richard Torrez Jr. vs. Ahmed Hefny, 6 rounds, heavyweight

Duke Ragan vs. Luis Lebron, 8 rounds, featherweight

Nico Ali Walsh vs. Billy Wagner, 6 rounds, middleweight

Tiger Johnson vs. Esteban Garcia, 6 rounds, junior welterweight

Troy Isley vs. Quincy Lavallais, 8 rounds, middleweight

Abdullah Mason vs. Angel Barrera, 6 rounds, lightweight

Haven Brady Jr. vs. Eric Mondragon, 8 rounds, junior lightweight



October 29: Nico Ali Walsh Returns on Vasiliy Lomachenko-Jamaine Ortiz Card at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden LIVE on ESPN+

NEW YORK (Sept. 27, 2022) — Middleweight prospect Nico Ali Walsh, the grandson of “The Greatest,” is set to make his New York City return.
 
Ali Walsh will fight Billy Wagner in his first scheduled six-rounder Saturday, Oct. 29 at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. Ali Walsh-Wagner joins the undercard of the lightweight main event between former pound-for-pound king Vasiliy Lomachenko and the unbeaten Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz. In the featherweight co-feature, two-time Cuban Olympic gold medalist Robeisy Ramirez battles former world champion Jessie Magdaleno.
 
The entire Lomachenko-Ortiz card will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $56 are on sale now and available to purchase at Ticketmaster.com.

“I am thrilled to be back in action on another significant card. Lomachenko is one of the greats of his era,” Ali Walsh said. “My first year as a professional has been a tremendous learning experience, and I have a great team to help me get to the next level. I respect Billy Wagner and am preparing to showcase everything I’ve learned in the gym from my incredible trainer, Kay Koroma.”
 
Ali Walsh (6-0, 5 KOs) made his pro debut in August 2021 with a first-round knockout and has been dominant in the paid ranks apart from one minor hiccup. Last December, he made his Madison Square Garden debut and edged Reyes Sanchez by majority decision. Following a pair of quick knockouts to start his 2022 campaign, he fought Sanchez in an August rematch at Pechanga Arena San Diego, the same building where Muhammad Ali lost to Ken Norton via split decision in 1973. Ali Walsh cleared up any doubt, doubling over Sanchez with a left hook to the liver in the second round. Wagner (5-2, 1 KO), from Browning, Montana, has won two straight since a February 2021 knockout loss to Javier Martinez inside the MGM Grand Bubble.


October 29: Vasiliy Lomachenko to Face Jamaine Ortiz in Lightweight Main Event at Hulu Theater at MSG LIVE on ESPN+

NEW YORK (Sept. 12, 2022) — Ukraine’s former pound-for-pound king, the man known as “Loma,” is back.
 
Vasiliy Lomachenko, a three-weight world champion, will make his triumphant New York City return in the 12-round main event Saturday, October 29 against undefeated contender Jamaine “The Technician” Ortiz at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.
 
The 10-round featherweight co-feature sees two-time Cuban Olympic gold medalist Robeisy “El Tren” Ramirez attempt to author a career-best win against former world champion Jessie Magdaleno.
 
U.S. Olympic silver medalist Richard Torrez Jr. (3-0, 3 KOs), who is coming off a 44-second knockout over Marco Antonio Canedo in August, looks to make it 4-0 in a six-round heavyweight special feature.
 
Lomachenko-Ortiz, Ramirez-Magdaleno, and Torrez Jr. headline a card that will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+. Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $56 go on sale Thursday, September 15 at 12 p.m. ET and will be available to purchase at Ticketmaster.com.
 
Lomachenko was set to fight then-unified lightweight champion George Kambosos Jr. earlier this year, but when Russia invaded Ukraine, he put his boxing career on hold to join a territorial defense battalion in his homeland.
 
“Vasiliy Lomachenko is a credit to his country and the sport of boxing,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “When his country needed him, Vasiliy did not hesitate. We are thrilled that he is safe and fighting once again at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, his home away from home. Jamaine Ortiz is a young, hungry, undefeated fighter who understands that a victory over a living legend like Loma would be life-changing.”
 
Lomachenko (16-2, 11 KOs) has a résumé that is unmatched in modern boxing. A two-time Olympic gold medalist for Ukraine, he had a 396-1 amateur record, won a world title in his third pro fight, and became a three-weight world champion in his 12th bout. Lomachenko unified three of the four lightweight titles before a loss to Teofimo Lopez in October 2020 derailed his quest for undisputed supremacy. Last year, he came back with one-sided victories over Masayoshi Nakatani and Richard Commey. Lomachenko is 5-0 at Madison Square Garden Entertainment’s venues, including the win over Commey and his one-sided drubbing over fellow two-time Olympic gold medalist Guillermo Rigondeaux. He arrived in Southern California last month to resume his career and work towards his goal of capturing the undisputed lightweight title, which is currently held by Devin “The Dream” Haney.
 
Lomachenko said, “I love my sport, and I am so glad to be back. My goal is to win the undisputed lightweight title, but I will not take Jamaine Ortiz lightly. Madison Square Garden and Hulu Theater at MSG have been special places in my career, and I look forward to making more great memories on October 29. I want to dedicate this fight to all my Ukrainian people. I wear the flag proudly every time I step in the ring.”
 
Ortiz (16-0-1, 8 KOs), from Worcester, Massachusetts, enters this bout hoping to stun another former world champion on the comeback trail. He last fought May 21 in Las Vegas, wearing down Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring down the stretch to earn a 10-round unanimous decision. Ortiz is a six-year pro who plied his trade on the New England club scene. Three months before the Herring triumph, Ortiz won the NABF lightweight strap with a clear decision win over Nahir Albright. Ortiz made his Top Rank on ESPN debut in April 2021 with an eight-draw against Joseph Adorno, surviving a pair of knockdowns in one of the year’s best action battles.
 
Ortiz said, “I’m excited about this fight. Vasiliy Lomachenko is a great fighter, but I’m here to win. Once I win this fight, I’m targeting a world title opportunity. This is a dream come true.”
 
Ramirez (10-1, 6 KOs), from Cienfuegos, Cuba, starred at the 2012 London Olympics alongside Lomachenko. He won the first of his gold medals, while Lomachenko dominantly captured gold medal number two. Ramirez ruled the amateur ranks for another six years before defecting from Cuba. After a stunning loss in his 2019 professional debut against Adan Gonzales, Ramirez has been flawless during a 10-fight winning streak that has seen him avenge the Gonzales loss and crack the top 15 of all four major sanctioning organizations. He authored his most notable victory to date in June at Hulu Theater at MSG, knocking out the previously undefeated Abraham Nova with a left hand in the fifth round. That one-shot knockout propelled Ramirez into the title conversation, and he hopes to get that shot before long. But, first, a former world champion stands in his way.
 
Ramirez said, “It is great to be back at the iconic Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. I am particularly excited to do so as co-main event of the evening that marks the return of the great Vasiliy Lomachenko, whom I admire and consider one of the greatest talents of all time. It’s rare to have two two-time Olympic gold medalists on the same card, and it is an honor for me. As far as Magdaleno is concerned, he represents an important challenge as he is an excellent boxer, a southpaw, and a former world champion.”
 
Magdaleno (29-1, 18 KOs) ascended to the top of the junior featherweight division in November 2016 with his decision victory over Nonito Donaire. His title reign ended at the hands of Isaac Dogboe in April 2018, but he is 4-0 since losing to Dogboe and subsequently moving up to featherweight. He shook off an extended layoff in May to shut out Edy Valencia over eight rounds. A native of Las Vegas who has showcased his talents at many of the city’s most storied venues, Magdaleno will be making his New York City debut against a recently unstoppable train.
 
Magdaleno said, “I am coming to shock the boxing world. I know what a victory would mean for my career. My goal is to become a two-time world champion, and Robeisy Ramirez is in my way. Just know that I am ready.”
 
In addition to Torrez, three of his Olympic teammates from Tokyo will see action under the lights. Tiger Johnson (5-0, 4 KOs) makes his New York City debut in a six-round junior welterweight bout, featherweight silver medalist Duke Ragan (7-0, 1 KO) steps up in his first scheduled eight-rounder, and Troy Isley (7-0, 4 KOs) tests the junior middleweight waters in an eight-rounder.
 
Cleveland-born lightweight sensation Abdullah Mason (4-0, 3 KOs) will fight in his first six-rounder, while junior lightweight Haven Brady Jr. (7-0, 4 KOs) makes his division debut in an eight-rounder.