WBC interim junior middleweight champion Serhii Bohachuk and Vergil Ortiz are finalizing a fight for August 10th in Las Vegas. This bout marks a significant shift for Ortiz, who will face a more challenging opponent than usual in Bohachuk.
Critics argue that Ortiz’s perfect record might be misleading, as his promoters have protected him throughout his career and this fight against Bohachuk will be a true test of his abilities as the winner will earn a shot at the WBC title against the victor of the Sebastian Fundora vs. Errol Spence bout. Bohachuk, who recently dominated Brian Mendoza to win the WBC interim junior middleweight title, poses a significant threat with his high-volume punching and impressive track record.
For Ortiz, this fight represents his first real challenge at 154 pounds, having previously faced less talented opponents like Thomas Dulorme and Fredrick Lawson. The 26-year-old has yet to prove himself against a fighter of Bohachuk’s caliber, making this matchup a crucial step in his career.
Watch Ortiz vs. Dulorme highlights: Watch
Fans are also disappointed that Ortiz won’t be fighting on the August 3rd card headlined by Terence Crawford vs. Israil Madrimov. Initially set to fight Tim Tszyu on that card, Ortiz’s plans changed due to Tszyu’s unhealed cut from a previous fight. While Ortiz has shown promise against fighters like Michael McKinson and Brad Solomon, he has yet to face A-level competition.
The upcoming fight against Bohachuk is seen as a make-or-break moment for Ortiz. If he can overcome this challenge, it will validate his status as a top contender. However, a loss could expose vulnerabilities and challenge the perception of his boxing level.
Image Credit: ESPN