Tag Archives: Thompson Boxing Promotions

Jose Sanchez vs. Andrew Strode Training Camp Quotes

CORONA, CA (June 1, 2021) – Undefeated featherweights, Jose “Tito” Sanchez (6-0, 4 KOs) and Andrew Strode (6-0, 1 KO) are scheduled to clash on the next edition of 3.2.1. Boxing brought to you by Thompson Boxing Promotions.  The two warriors give their thought as the wrap up the final days of training camp. The 6-round bout will serve as the opener on the 3-fight card.

Headlining will be Michael “The West Texas Warrior” Dutchover (14-1, 10 KOs), who is co-promoted with Banner Promotions, versus Ivan Leon Benitez(14-4-1, 6 KOs) in an 8-round junior welterweight showdown.

The 6-round co-main event will showcase Richard “Cool Breeze” Brewart Jr. (9-0, 4 KOs) vs. Donte Stubbs (6-1, 2 KOs).


The free stream will air live on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), as well as their Facebook and YouTube pages.

3.2.1. Boxing will take place at the Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, CA, and will start at 2:30 p.m. PT / 5:30 p.m. ET.

Here is what Jose Sanchez had to say about his recent training camp, his matchup with Strode, and more.

On his recent training: “Camp has been great. I have been very motivated and I’m ready to make showcase the latest version of myself. I feel that facing a fellow undefeated fighter inspired me that much more in the gym to push even harder. I always train hard, but these are the type of fights that got me interested in turning professional. I’m ready to climb up the rankings with a victory. My hands will be raised after this fight.”

On his matchup with Andrew Strode:“I know that I am more talented than my opponent, but I also know that since he is an undefeated fighter, he has a lot of confidence. This is the second undefeated fighter I am facing in only seven fights. I think that says a lot about me compared to rest of the featherweight division. I want to stop him like I did my last undefeated opponent as that would be a major statement.”

On making his 2021 debut:“It is great to be back in the ring and return to action. I have been out of the ring for over a year and used my time wisely in the gym, but I also know that ring time is important at this stage in my career. I want to get a big win and return as fast as possible.” 

On fighting on 3.2.1 Boxing with no fans:“I want to thank Thompson Boxing for helping me so much early in my career, guiding me, building me into the fighter I am today. I love the way they treat fighters, and it feels like a family, not a company. I wouldn’t want to be with any other promoter. This will be my first time fighting with no fans so it will be interesting to see how I react. Bottom line is I’m coming to fight.”
Andrew Strode gives his thoughts on his recent training camp, his matchup with Sanchez and more:

On his recent training camp:“We went back to the basics and put that hard work in the gym. I am very focused for this fight. Most people don’t know, but I have defeated five undefeated fighters in my six fights. I’ve have gone on the road to do it as well. I am in the sport to fight the best and this camp has been a very good one.”

On his matchup with Jose Sanchez:“Sanchez is a good fighter, I know he is smaller than me, despite fighting at higher weight classes, which I think is interesting. I have nothing bad to say about him though, he has done everything he has needed to up until this point, but I am different than anyone else he has ever fought. He will soon realize that he made a mistake taking this fight. There is nothing he can do to stop me. I’m coming out on top.”

On making his 2021 debut:“It is nice to return as I am basically coming off a two-year layoff which has been rough since my career was going really well to start. I never lost focus in the gym and this is a really big chance for me to show the world my skillset as the bout will be shown live on the internet. All my people will be tuning in and I can’t wait to let my fist fly.”

On fighting in California on 3.2.1. Boxing:“It is an honor to fight on a Thompson Boxing card, I watch their streams, and they’re very professional. I love what they do with keeping fans engaged in the fights, as well as showcasing up-and-coming talent. I look at fighters like Daniel Roman, and Tim Bradley, and realize they started with Thompson Boxing, so it is a big deal to be on one of their cards. Fighting in California is always nice because of the weather. This is the big time and I’m ready to go!”

Beto Duran will operate as the blow-by-blow commentator with expert commentary by Doug Fischer and Steve KimJessica Rosales will serve as the onsite ringside reporter.

3.2.1 Boxing is sponsored by Thompson Building Materials, transforming spaces in beautiful places; Omega Products International, the leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Henry / Fortifiber, moisture system control as easy as 1,2,3, and Makita, rule the outdoors. For more information, regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #321Boxing and #ThompsonBoxing.

Please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.Fight Hub TV is a proud Media Partner with Thompson Boxing’s 3.2.1. Boxing shows and a great resource for all things Boxing.

# # #

George “El YuYu” Acosta Speaks on Career Defining Win Against Gadwin Rosa

Photos by Damon Gonzalez / All-Star Boxing
LOS ANGELES, CA (May 10, 2021) – Thompson Boxing Promotions’ super featherweight prospect, George “El Yuyu” Acosta (12-1, 1 KO), picked a career-defining win this past Friday, May 7, 2021, as he defeated Gadwin Rosa(11-2, 9 KOs), at the Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, FL. With the win, Acosta captured the vacant WBA Fedecentro Super Featherweight title. The event was promoted by All-Star Boxing and televised by Telemundo.

“I’m ready to step up and challenge all the top contenders at 130 pounds,” said Acosta. “I have never been one to call out names, but I know that I am deserving of a high-profile fight. I have fought above my weight for most of my career and took this fight on late notice and got the victory. I am ready for anyone and anything and am grateful to Thompson Boxing for believing in me.”

“We’re so proud of George Acosta,” were the first words of promoter Ken Thompson, “Acosta has been in tough early in his career, and now has found a weight class he is supremely confident in. I see Acosta as a fighter who will be getting a big fights as he marches on at super featherweight.”

“George Acosta has grown as a boxer and is the perfect example of a Thompson Boxing fighter,” said Alex Camponovo, Thompson Boxing’s general manager. “George has faced tough competition and learned from a loss, and now he is one of the exciting up-and-comers of Thompson Boxing. We are immensely proud of George.”

“I know that it takes a team to get to the next level and it also takes experience,” concluded Acosta. “I am 24-years-old, and I am right where I need to be. I have never been a disrespectful fighter. I do not call people out, or disrespect them, but I want people to know I am ready to fight anyone. I believe in my team and my promoter, and know good things are coming my way.”

George Acosta won by the following scores 96-94, 97-93 and 98-92, as he defeated Gadwin Rosa by unanimous decision. 

Power Puncher “El Explosivo” Miguel Madueño (22-0, 20 KOs) Makes USA Debut on Thompson’s 3.2.1. Boxing

CORONA, CA (April 13, 2021) – Thompson Boxing Promotions returns on Sunday, April 18th, 2021, with yet another action-packed night of fights as 3.2.1. Boxing returns with three exciting bouts. Former super lightweight world title contender, Petr “Zar” Petrov (41-6-2, 22 KOs), who was scheduled to open up the show, is now off the card. 
 
The 8-round main event featuring Ruben “Ace” Torres (14-0, 11 KOs) vs. Diego Contreras (11-3, 5 KOs), will remain intact. The 8-round co-main event will now showcase Mexican power puncher, Miguel “El Explosivo” Madueño (22-0, 20 KOs) vs. Bergman Aguilar (15-6-1, 5 KOs). The opening bout will stage TBP’s George “El YuYu” Acosta (10-1, 1 KO) vs. Edgar “Pito Lupillo” Ramirez (17-16-1, 14 KOs) in super lightweight bout scheduled for 6-rounds.


The free stream will air live on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), as well as their Facebook and YouTube 
pages. 3.2.1. Boxing will take place at the Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, CA, and will start at 2:00 p.m. PT / 5:00 p.m. ET.


Madueño, who hails from Guasave, Mexico, will be making his USA debut. The knockout artist possesses power in both hands and promises to display ferociousness in the ring this Sunday.
 
“I want to make my USA debut a memorable day, showcasing an immense display of speed and power that God has blessed me with,” said Miguel Madueño, who is coming to U.S. soil for the first time will make his home in Santa Fe Springs, CA. “Anyone who has seen me fight, knows I like to throw a lot of power punches. I can’t wait to get going against Aguilar this Sunday afternoon.”


“We’re thrilled to show the world the talents of Madueño,” said promoter Ken Thompson. “It’s unfortunate that Petr Petrov couldn’t make it to the States, but we feel we have a fantastic bout to fill in the slot.” 
 
“Everyone should be tuning in to see this kid Madueño,” said Alex Camponovo, Thompson Boxing’s general manager and creator of 3.2.1 Boxing. “We have been forced to delay his American debut due to the pandemic and I am sure he will make the bet of the opportunity that just opened up for him.” 


Beto Duran will operate as the blow-by-blow commentator with expert commentary by Doug Fischer and Steve KimJessica Rosales will serve as the onsite ringside reporter.
 
3.2.1 Boxing is sponsored by Thompson Building Materials, transforming spaces in beautiful places; Omega Products International, the leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Henry / Fortifiber, moisture system control as easy as 1,2,3, and Makita, rule the outdoors.
 
For more information, regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #321Boxing and #ThompsonBoxing.


Please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.
Fight Hub TV is a proud Media Partner with Thompson Boxing’s 3.2.1. Boxing shows and a great resource for all things Boxing.

Petr “Zar” Petrov TRAINING CAMP QUOTES AND PHOTOS

Photos by Team Petrov
MADRID, SPAIN (April 8, 2021) – Super lightweight contender, Petr “Zar” Petrov (41-6-2, 22 KOs), is looking to propel himself back into the world title picture as he believes his third chance will be the charm. First, Petrov must defeat Bergman “Snake” Aguilar (15-6-1, 5 KOs) on Thompson’s 3.2.1. Boxing event, next Sunday, April 18th, at the Omega Products Event Center in Corona, CA. The bout, scheduled for 8-rounds, will be the opening fight on the three-fight card.

The free stream will air live on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), as well as their Facebook and YouTube pages. 3.2.1. Boxing will take place at the Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, CA, and will start at 2:00 p.m. PT / 5:00 p.m. ET.

Here is what Petr Petrov had to say about his upcoming fight, training from Madrid, Spain, a potential future world title shot, and more.
On his upcoming bout against Aguilar:

“This is a chance to show how far I’ve grown as a fighter. I truly believe I’m the best version of myself and having Danny Zamora in my corner for this fight will be a big help. I want to put on a great performance that has people wondering how I would fare against top level guys. Aguilar is a tough durable guy who has been in the ring with some good fighters, so I know he’s coming to fight.”

On recent training camp:

“I’m wrapping up my final days of training camp in Madrid, Spain, and I’m feeling very strong. Being home, and refocusing, gave me a new perspective. I arrive to the U.S. this Sunday, which is plenty of time to acclimated to the time change. I feel more an enthused than ever.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“I have been out of the ring for a year-and-a-half, even though I had three fights since my loss to Ivan Baranchyk, but that is the fight people remember. I want people to see my improvement and realize I can be a force at the 140 lbs. division.”

On how far he believes he’s away from a world title shot:

“I think with a couple of wins I’ll be in line for a title eliminator if I put on exciting performances. With Jose Ramirez and Josh Taylor fighting to unify the division, I think soon some belts will open up. I have to perform and be ready to succeed at each and every step along the way. I’m hoping by the end of 2021 I can be in a big fight with a world champion.”

Beto Duran will operate as the blow-by-blow commentator with expert commentary by Doug Fischer and Steve KimJessica Rosales will serve as the onsite ringside reporter.

3.2.1 Boxing is sponsored by Thompson Building Materials, transforming spaces in beautiful places; Omega Products International, the leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Henry / Fortifiber, moisture system control as easy as 1,2,3, and Makita, rule the outdoors.

For more information, regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #321Boxing and #ThompsonBoxing.

Please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV and follow us on Instagram  and  Twitter  @ThompsonBoxing.

Fight Hub TV is a proud Media Partner with Thompson Boxing’s 3.2.1. Boxing shows and a great resource for all things Boxing.

Ruben Villa Aims to Stay Unbeaten on Friday Night

         

PHILADELPHIA, PENN. / ORANGE, Calif. (Aug. 22, 2018) – For the third time in his young career, featherweight Ruben Villa (12-0, 5 KOs) faces a well experienced veteran looking to upend his hot start.

 

 

 

 

 

Villa, who turned 21 in April, headlines Thompson Boxing’s “Locked n’ Loaded” event against Jose Santos Gonzalez (23-6, 13 KOs) of Mexico this Friday night from Omega Products International in Corona, Calif.

 

 

 

 

 

Gonzalez is no stranger to big fights, having suffered defeats against current bantamweight world champion Zolani Tete, and unbeaten contender Duke Micah. The southpaw Villa, despite his young age, is more than ready to face this challenge.

 

 

 

 

 

“Even though I’m young, I saw a lot of styles in the amateurs and even now as a professional I spar with a lot of top quality boxers,” said Villa, who is a former back-to-back National Golden Gloves champion. “Gonzalez might have the big fight experience working for him, but I know how to beat him in a convincing way.”

 

 

 

 

 

Villa has certainly gotten off to an impressive start since hitting the paid ranks two years ago. In his seven fights that have gone the distance, Villa has lost only one round on a single scorecard. He boasts an excellent combination of size and speed, plus a defensive acumen far ahead of most prospects his age.

 

 

 

 

 

“I feel like my development as a complete boxer has taken a big jump this year,” said Villa, who is managed by Danny Zamora. “I’m able to see things a lot faster and that opens up different angles and combinations.”

 

 

 

 

 

Villa, who resides in Salinas, Calif. and is trained by Max Garcia, will fight for the fourth time this year after earning six wins last year. He credits the consistent activity for his fast rising development.

 

 

 

 

 

“It’s real important for young fighters like myself to stay as active as possible in the early years,” Villa said. “High level sparring is great, but it doesn’t replicate the real thing. We have all this protective gear and we wear big gloves. It just feels different. That’s why I’m extremely thankful to my promoters for keeping me as active as I’ve been.”

 

 

 

Villa is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

 

 

 

All fights will be live streamed on TB Presents: Locked n’ Loaded via Thompson Boxing Facebook page and ThompsonBoxing.com.

 

 

 

The livestream starts at 8:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. ET with Beto Duran as the blow-by-blow announcer and Steve Kim providing expert, color commentary.

 

 

 

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

 

 

 

Photo by Carlos Baeza / Thompson Boxing

Heralded Prospect Ruben Villa Remains Undefeated with Unanimous Decision this Past Friday Night in Ontario, California

      

PHILADELPHIA, PENN./ORANGE, Calif. (Feb. 19, 2017)- Heralded prospect Ruben Villa (10-0, 4 KOs) of Salinas, Calif. made it ten straight wins to start his career by outpointing veteran Juan Sandoval (15-18, 5 KOs) of Mexico. Scores: 59-55, 60-54 twice.
The bout was the co-feature this past Friday night at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, California.

Villa, 20, capitalized on his southpaw stance by landing a strong jab and countering with a right hook that routinely found its mark. Sandoval often looked confused and never managed to find any angles against the busier Villa.
“I just tried to keep the pressure on him from start to finish,” said Villa, who is co-promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. “I think he fought a cautious fight, but I was still able to land a lot of punches in every round.”
Villa was most impressive in the fourth and fifth rounds when he delivered numerous sets of combinations that stunned the taller Sandoval. While Villa kept his unbeaten streak alive on Friday night, another, less recognizable streak ended. In his previous unanimous decision wins, Villa had won every round on every scorecard. On Friday night, one judge failed to give Villa all six rounds (59-55).
“That streak was bound to end sooner or later,” Villa said. “I’ll have to start another one.”
“Once again Ruben had a terrific outing on Friday night,” said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.
“Ruben continues his progression and development, and we are extremely pleased at where he is at.  2018 is going to be a big year for Ruben, as we will see him fight for some regional titles in the next 12-18 months.”
“Ruben looked impressive yet again against a veteran opponent,” said Ken Thompson, president of Thompson Boxing. “Ruben is developing and maturing quicker than we anticipated. He’ll be back in the ring very soon.”
For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please like Banner Promotions Facebook Page, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing.

Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing Sign Undefeated Lightweight Zhora Hamazaryan to a Co-Promotional contract

      

Hamazaryan wins American debut by unanimous decision this past Friday night in Ontario, California
PHILADELPHIA, PENN./ORANGE, Calif. (Feb. 19, 2018) – Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing Promotions are pleased to announce the signing of undefeated lightweight prospect Zhora Hamazaryan to a co-promotional contract.
Hamazaryan, 22 years-old of Gyumri, Armenia, improved to 9-0 with 6 knockouts as he won his American debut this past Friday night when he scored a 4-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Sergio Ramirez in Ontario, California.
Hamazaryan is a three year-professional who had his previous eight victories in Russia.
In the bout against Ramirez, Hamazaryan dropped his opponent with
a hard left hook in the second round.  Hamazaryan was very impressive as he displayed heavy hands and had a crowd pleasing style.  
“I’m pleased with the win,” Hamazaryan said. “He was a bit awkward, but it wasn’t enough to throw me off what I wanted to do.”
“Zhora had a terrific performance, and I am very pleased with his fight,” said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.
“He has only been in the United States for a couple weeks, and he will have a full camp here for his next fight, so I expect that he will be even better in his next bout.  We feel that at 22 years old, he has a bright future, and I look forward to his watching his development.”
“Zhora made his U.S. debut a memorable one,” said Ken Thompson, President of Thompson Boxing. “He fought a very awkward fighter and was able to dominate him from the start. We like that he comes from an extensive amateur background and look forward to developing him further.”
 PHOTOS BY Carlos Baeza / Thompson Boxing
 
For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing.

Michael Dutchover Dishes on Sparring Sessions with Oscar Valdez & Jessie Magdaleno

      

 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ORANGE, Calif. (Sept. 21, 2017) – Top junior lightweight prospect Michael Dutchover (5-0, 4 KOs) marks his return to the ring this Friday night against Carlos Flores (4-5-1, 3 KOs) in a featured 6-round bout on the “New Blood” undercard.

The five-fight show, promoted by Thompson Boxing Promotions, takes place at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, California.

Tickets for “New Blood” are priced at $40, $60, & $100 and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or visiting ThompsonBoxing.com.

Dutchover, an accomplished amateur who earned a bronze medal at the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2015 and a runner-up finish at the National Golden Gloves competition a year later, turned professional last year and already possesses a fan friendly style.

Thompson Boxing caught up the with Midland, Tex. native and got his take on relocating to the Los Angeles area, what it was like to spar with two world champions, and his outlook on Friday’s fight.

Your training camp was unlike any other in that you sparred against world champions Oscar Valdez and Jessie Magdaleno, as well as blue-chip prospect Michael Conlan. What was it like going against such high-level talent?

“Sparring against world champions elevates your game and boosts your confidence tremendously. I held my own the first few sessions with Oscar and Jessie and they called me back for other sessions. These guys expect solid work so I was glad that they brought me back. I’m gaining experience from some of the best so it’s awesome. It was also great sparring with Michael. With those three I was able to see different styles that will help me in my development.”

Your opponent Carlos Flores has had an uneven career. How do you get up for a fight where you are the clear favorite?

“You can’t think that every fight is going to be easy. If you’re not ready for a fight then anyone can make you look bad. This sport is unforgiving in that way. I’m going to be on my “A” game and it will show Friday.”

Earlier this year you made the decision to relocate to the Los Angeles area and leave your hometown of Midland, Tex. What has been the toughest part of this move?

“I’m doing what I love to do and that always involves sacrifices. The most difficult part is being away from friends and family and being far from home. I knew moving to Los Angeles was the right choice because if you want to get better, especially in the lower weight classes, this area is the place to be. On any given day you can spar with contenders and world champions so it’s been great for me.”

How do you see Friday’s fight going down?

“I can predict a solid win for me and my team. I’m going to let my punches go and just be active. I’ll work off the jab to open things up and I’m going to show an improved defense. I’m going to look the best I’ve looked so far. That much I know.”

Dutchover is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

All five fights will be livestreamed on TB Presents: New Blood via our Facebook page and ThompsonBoxing.com.

The livestream starts at 8:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. ET with Beto Duran as the blow-by-blow announcer and Steve Kim providing expert color commentary.

Taras Shelestyuk Enjoying Working with New Trainer Joel Diaz Ahead of Saturday’s Fight

      
      
  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ORANGE, Calif./Philadelphia, Penn. (June 27, 2017) – Undefeated, world ranked welterweight Taras “The Real Deal” Shelestyuk is banking on his new trainer, the highly regarded Joel Diaz, to take his game to the next level.
“I enjoy working with Joel Diaz,” said Shelstyuk, who brought home a bronze finish in the 2012 London Olympics to his native Ukraine.  “He’s a great communicator. He knows how to bring out the best in boxers.”
Shelestyuk (15-0, 9 KOs), who on Saturday headlines Thompson Boxing’s “Locked n’ Loaded” 8-round main event from Omega Products in Sacramento, Calif., is currently ranked No. 5 by the WBO.
At 31, Shelestyuk can ill afford a slip up on his way up the official rankings. His opponent, Jesus Alvarez Rodriguez (15-2, 11 KOs), is all too eager to play the spoiler on Saturdaynight.
“I know I can’t sleep on Rodriguez,” said Shelestyuk, who is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. “I have to make a statement early in the fight to let him know what I’m about.”
Shelestyuk vs. Rodriguez and the entire 8-bout card will be streamed live on TB Presents: Locked n’ Loaded. Watch the action on ThompsonBoxing.com and Facebook Live beginning at 6:30 p.m. PST / 10:30 p.m. EST.
Tickets for “Locked n’ Loaded” are priced at $40, $60, & $100 and are available for purchase online at ThompsonBoxing.com, or by calling 714-935-0900.
Shelestyuk is coming off a unanimous decision win against Jaime Herrera in November. The fight, televised on SHOWTIME, had championship implications with Shelestyuk winning the WBO-NABO welterweight title.
Since teaming up with Diaz several months ago, Shelestyuk, who is a southpaw, has tightened his punching ability and plans to be assertive throughout the 8-round fight.
“I think most people know that I’m more of a boxer than a puncher,” said the Los Angeles-based Shelestyuk.  “You can still have an aggressive style with a technical game plan and that’s what we’re working on. How to be aggressive in a methodical fashion.”
“This is a big fight for Taras.  Should he win on Saturday, we feel he is ready for a major fight.  He is hungry and has the incentive to put on a great performance on Saturday night,” said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.
In the co-feature, standout amateur Ruben Villa (5-0, 3 KOs) of Salinas, Calif. looks to stay undefeated against Jonathan Alcantara (7-15-2, 1 KO) in a fight set for 6-rounds.
Villa has all the tools to become the next world champion at featherweight. He cleaned up the amateur ranks with back-to-back National Golden Gloves championships prior to turning professional last year.
He inked a promotional contract with Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing last July.
TB Presents: Locked n’ Loaded broadcast team consists of Beto Duran on play-by-play and Steve Kim provides expert, color commentary.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. local time with the first bout at approximately 6:30 p.m. Omega Products International is located at 8111 Fruitridge Road, Sacramento, CA 95826 and can be reached at 916-635-3335.
“Locked n’ Loaded” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Lucas Oil, in association with Everlast.
For more information, please visit Banner-Promotions.com.
For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing.
Photo by Carlos Baeza / Thompson Boxing

Banner Promotions & Thompson Boxing sign amateur standout Ruben Villa to a co-promotional contract 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA / Orange, CA. (July 26, 2016)–Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing Promotions are pleased to announce the signing of amateur standout Ruben Villato a co-promotional contract.
The 19 year-old Villa of Salinas, California compiled an outstanding record of 166-17 in the unpaid ranks that included two National Junior Golden Gloves titles and two National Golden Gloves championships at 123 pounds.
Ruben did not make the U.S. Olympic team due to his struggles to make 123 pounds in the Olympic Trials.  He will campaign as a professional in the featherweight division (126 lbs).
“I am excited, and I have been working very hard to get to this point.  I cannot wait to turn professional,” said Villa.
“It is very cool to sign with two great promoters.  We were offered the opportunity, and we took it.”
“As for the Olympic trials I was disappointed, yet happy at the same time.  I was happy to make it that far, and now I am ready for the next phase of my career.”
Villa began boxing at the age of five when his family, who were big boxing fans, took young Ruben to the gym.
That spawned his amateur career, which saw him reach the number-1 national ranking at 123 pounds and saw him defeat eventual United States Olympian Shakur Stevenson.
“He is a good fighter, and I hope he wins a medal and at some point we can break the tie in our fights against each other.  I see that as a big fight down the line in the pros.”
Villa defeated Stevenson in the National Golden Gloves and Olympic Trials.
The 5’6″ Villa is managed and trained by Danny Zamora.  Zamora performs the same roles with world-ranked NABA, NABO, NABF and Boxicino 2014 lightweight champion Petr Petrov.
Villa describes his style as a boxer who uses angles and does not get hit much.
“My boxing influences are a bit of Vasyl Lomachenko and Canelo Alavrez.”
Ruben’s family and friends are not only a big part of his life, but also part of his success.
“My parents started me in boxing, and they have been extremely supportive in this.  I also have 4 sisters (Ruben is the 2nd oldest of the 5 children), and they are very supportive as well. “
Villa has sparred with Petrov, Bruno Escalante and Manuel Avilla, and that has given him a good gage on where he is at as he embarks on his career.
“I do well with those guys.  I can hold my own, and those guys are great professionals.  It gives me confidence as I start out.”
“Whenever you have the chance to sign someone as talented and as gifted as Ruben Villa, you jump at that opportunity,” said Ken Thompson, President of Thompson Boxing Promotions. “Villa comes to us from an accomplished amateur background. He has all the traits you look for in a prospect – tremendous skill set, positive attitude, and a love for the sport. He has an outstanding future ahead of him.”

Arthur Pelullo, President of Banner Promotions stated, “We are very excited by the signing of Ruben.  He has all the makings of a future star.  I can see big things in his future, as he has great ability, a pro-style and the intangibles to be a great fighter for a long time.  We are very familiar with Ruben’s team, and we have a great relationship with his manager, Danny Zamora. We are eager to start Ruben on his journey to become a world champion.”

“Ruben is a great prospect, a top amateur and an Olympic alternate,” said Villa’s Manager Danny Zamora. “I believe he will be a world champion.  I met Ruben through his trainer Rudy Puga, and I have been following him for three years.  I feel that he has all the makings to be a star.”

Villa will turn professional this Friday night at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, California on a Thompson Boxing card that will be headlined by Jose Roman taking on Carlos Cardenas
Photos by Carlos Baeza / Thompson Boxing