Promoter Oscar De La Hoya is gearing up to unveil a much-anticipated boxing event, Latino Nights, set for November 16th at The Venue in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The excitement is palpable as the event will be broadcast live on DAZN. However, the details surrounding the start time are yet to be confirmed, leaving fans eagerly awaiting further information. De La Hoya, a former boxing champion himself, has consistently championed the sport’s diversity, channeling his passion into captivating showcases like Latino Nights.
The main event pits WBA cruiserweight champion Gilberto Ramirez against WBO champion Chris Billiam-Smith. On the surface, this matchup appears intriguing, but it raises eyebrows among boxing aficionados. Ramirez, despite his impressive record of 46 wins and only one loss, has struggled to maintain the fervor of his fanbase since his unanimous decision defeat to Dmitry Bivol two years ago. This loss seems to have dulled the interest in his career, resulting in skepticism about whether he should headline this event. Many fans argue that a different matchup might capture the enthusiasm more effectively.
Contrasting with the Ramirez-Billiam-Smith fight, the matchup between William Zepeda and Tevin Farmer is drawing significant attention. Zepeda, boasting an undefeated record of 31 wins, including 27 knockouts, is in desperate need of a victory against Farmer, a former IBF super featherweight champion. A win here could secure Zepeda a title opportunity against WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson next February, making this fight potentially more consequential than the main event.
Latino Nights on November 16th features an exciting lineup: besides the Ramirez vs. Billiam-Smith clash, boxing fans will witness Jose Ramirez face Arnold Barboza Jr. in a 12-round co-feature. Barboza is currently ranked number one with the WBO, while Ramirez holds the fourth position, indicating that the stakes are high for both fighters seeking a shot at the title. The change in opponent for lightweight Oscar Duarte, who will now compete against Botirzhon Akhmedov after Kenneth Sims’ withdrawal, adds an air of unpredictability to the event.
The array of anticipated fights, along with notable matchups such as Oscar Collazo versus Thammanoon Niyomtrong and Ramirez against Barboza, can create a frenzy of excitement among fans. The event aims to celebrate Latin culture in boxing, offering fighters a crucial platform to showcase their skills on an international stage. De La Hoya’s ability to attract a diverse audience and the inclusion of numerous compelling bouts could reignite interest in the sport, especially among fans who may have wavered in their enthusiasm.
As the countdown to November 16th begins, the buzz surrounding Latino Nights in Riyadh promises to bring both thrilling matchups and cultural celebration, reaffirming boxing’s diverse and exhilarating nature. Only time will tell whether this event lives up to the anticipation or leaves fans longing for more.