Thompson Boxing Promotions closes out its promotional year with seven stellar fights, highlighted by welterweights Artemio “King” Reyes (20-2, 16 KOs) and Giovanni “El Gallo de Oro” Santillan (10-0, 6 KOs) in separate 8-round fights on Friday, Nov. 22, at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.
Reyes, fighting out of Colton, Calif., is coming in red-hot after winning four out of his last five contests by knockout. He goes up against Francisco Reza (12-7, 9 KOs) of Mexico in what promises to be an all-action affair.
“He likes to come forward and press the action,” Reyes said. “He’ll try to settle into a groove early, but I’m not going to let him get comfortable. I’m coming out sharp, hungry and ready for another knockout win.” Reyes last headlined a Thompson Boxing show in July and made quick work of Sergio Perez, knocking him down twice to score a third round KO win.
In the co-main event, the undefeated Santillan is fighting for the fifth time this year and standing in the way of his flawless record is the tough Michael Balasi (10-2, 7 KOs) of Honolulu, Hawaii. Santillan, out of San Diego, has looked impressive in his second year as a professional and is looking forward to finishing 2013 with an exciting performance.
“I’m always looking to give the fans something to cheer about,” said the 21-year-old Santillan, who, like Reyes, is promoted by Thompson Boxing. “Balasi will provide a challenge and he’s a fellow lefty so I’m sure we will have our fair share of exchanges in the middle of the ring.”
The Friday night of boxing marks the return of the much-heralded lightweight prospect Jose Roman (14-1-1, 11 KOs) of Orange, Calif. against Hector Miguel Zuniga (13-3, 8 KOs) of Tijuana, Mex. in a 6-round fight. It has been nearly a year since Roman last fought, which was a close split decision loss to Robert Osiobe. Managerial issues then ensued, which caused Roman to be inactive up to this point.
“I haven’t been this excited to fight in a very long time,” said Roman, who recently signed an exclusive promotional contract with Thompson Boxing Promotions. “The business side of the sport took me out of the ring for longer than expected, but I remained active in the gym knowing that I would get my chance sooner or later. I can’t wait for November 22.”
The fourth fight of the night features undefeated heavyweight Javier Torres (5-0-1, 3 KOs) of Los Angeles versus Kevin Howard (3-11-1, 1 KO) of Detroit, Mich. in a 4-round bout.
Preceding Torres-Howard, is a 6-round welterweight bout between Oscar Godoy (11-2, 6 KOs) of Watsonville, Calif. and Los Angeles-native Ricky Duenas (12-2, 6 KOs).
Heavyweight Justin Goslee (2-0, 2 KOs) of Los Angeles looks to remain unbeaten against an opponent to be named later (4-rounds).
Colombian welterweight Oscar Torres makes his professional debut against Carlos Herrera (0-2) of Tijuana, Mex. The first bout is scheduled for 4-rounds.
Tickets priced $100, $60 and $40 are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (714) 935-0900. For more information please visit www.thompsonboxing.com.
