After years of near-misses and frustration, junior welterweights Jose Ramirez and Arnold Barboza Jr. are finally set to go head-to-head on November 16 in Saudi Arabia. This long-awaited clash will serve as the co-main event of Golden Boy Promotions’ “Latino Night,” and both fighters are ready to make their mark on the 140-pound division.
For Barboza, this fight is personal. “I’ve wanted this fight since 2019, but it just never happened,” Barboza said. “I watched Ramirez get the big fights and main events while I was left clawing for my shot.” Now training hard in Big Bear, California, Barboza says he’s fully focused on coming out on top in November, especially with the support of his attorney, Steve Bash, guiding his career.
Ramirez, a former unified champion, is no stranger to high-stakes fights. He captured his first title in 2018 against Amir Imam and later unified belts by stopping Maurice Hooker. After a tough loss to Josh Taylor in 2021, Ramirez is eager to prove he’s still at the top of the 140-pound ranks. “Barboza’s been calling for this, but I was focused on unifying titles. Now, he’s standing in my way to reclaiming my titles,” Ramirez said. “This fight excites me and pushes me to train hard. It’s time to make a statement.”
Both fighters bring a lot to the ring: Barboza, undefeated and hungry, and Ramirez, experienced and determined. Fans in Saudi Arabia and around the world can expect a thrilling clash between two fighters with something to prove.
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Image Credit: ESPN