Jose Ramirez gears up for a big 2019
WBC super-lightweight champion Jose Ramirez (23-0, 16 KOs) will be making his second defense against fellow California native Jose Zepeda (30-1, 25 KOs).
Ramirez (26), a former 2012 U.S. Olympian, is extremely popular in Central Valley, California. The young champion has a fan friendly style and is a very good boxer; joining the ranks of the Oxnard gym. His fight with Antonio Orozco is a fight of the year candidate.
Zepada (29), has been waiting for a world title opportunity since suffering a second round stoppage due to a dislocated shoulder injury suffered in a fight with then-WBO champion Terry Flanagan.The southpaw fighter is on a seven-fight win streak. This is a great opportunity considering he isn’t ranked inside the WBC.
Interesting Facts
Ramirez is a former WBC Continental Americas lightweight champion and has only competed for titles in the WBC ranking.
Zepeda’s first four professional fights were in Mexicali. He is a former WBO/WBA International Super lightweight titlist.
The Champion will enjoy the advantages in both height and reach. He also employs very good footwork and throws a vicious left hook.
The challenger has the edge in power, with a lethal straight left. He displays good defense mixed with body punching.
Ramirez, if victorious, will likely be on course for a unification match-up against current undefeated WBO champion Maurice Hooker.
That could take place sometime late 2019.
This fight is on schedule for the Save Matt Arena, Fresno on February 10th on ESPN at 7 p.m. ET.
By: Garrisson Bland
