Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela and Serhii Bohachuk have both voiced confidence in the direction of Zuffa Boxing as they prepare to feature prominently on the promotion’s upcoming show at the Apex in Las Vegas. The event marks a step forward for the new organization following its debut, with Valenzuela set to headline in a lightweight bout and Bohachuk returning in a high-level clash after recent setbacks.
Valenzuela, a former 140lb world titleholder known for closely scrutinizing contracts, said joining Zuffa Boxing was a straightforward decision. He pointed to promises of regular activity, strong pay, exposure on Paramount+, and the freedom to appear on Ring Magazine cards. “I’m a fighter, man, and I feel like everything they offered made my job easier,” Valenzuela said, adding, “So what’s not to like about this?” He will face Diego Torres Nunez, whose only loss came against Raymond Muratalla.
The card also features former WBC interim junior middleweight titlist Serhii Bohachuk against Radzhab Butaev, alongside a light heavyweight bout between Oleksandr Gvozdyk and Radivoje Kalajdzic. Bohachuk enters looking to rebound after a surprise rematch loss to Brandon Adams and a narrow decision defeat to Vergil Ortiz Jr. He said adjustments in mindset and weight have him feeling better prepared this time. “This time is better,” Bohachuk said.
Valenzuela, now working with manager Rick Mirigian, also addressed the distractions that surrounded his last title defense, when he lost the WBA 140lb belt to Gary Antuanne Russell. He said legal disputes with his former manager affected his preparation and contributed to an uncharacteristically flat performance. “It was obvious something was wrong with me,” Valenzuela admitted, adding that he has treated the experience as a lesson moving forward.
Both fighters expressed belief in Zuffa’s long-term promise, even amid questions surrounding its structure and future plans. Bohachuk credited his trust in executive Tom Loeffler and said the promotion’s support has earned his loyalty. “They care for boxers,” he said.* “It’s a big, interesting promotion that could become the No. 1 promotion.”* For Valenzuela, the appeal was simpler: fewer politics, clearer opportunities, and the chance to focus solely on fighting.
Image Credit: Ready To Fight