AN ANTONIO, TX (December 18, 2021):
The Alamo City was treated to a night of action as undefeated former world champion, and light heavyweight sensation Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (43-0, 29 KOs) of Mazatlán, Mexico, faced Cuba’s Yunieski “The Monster” Gonzalez (21-4, 17 KOs) for the WBA Light Heavyweight Title eliminator.
The 12-round event at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, TX featured a fight card, that entertained the Texas fight fans with non-stop action, and stellar performances from some of the most popular fighters in the sport. As an early holiday gift, Golden Boy donated tickets to San Antonio’s military and first responders, gifting the local heroes with the gift of live boxing. Ramirez and Gonzalez started off their fight aggressively as Gonzalez launched a surprising attack on Ramirez in the first round. The round had Ramirez back tracking as he tried to find some distance and counter the Cuban’s attack. Ramirez, gained control and pushed back Gonzalez as the bell signaled the end of the first round. The next rounds Ramirez learned what to expect and began dictating the pace of the fight. He launched attacks, that at many time, left Gonzalez, stunned as he tried to find his feet. In the fourth round, it almost seemed like Ramirez was going to finish Gonzalez as he unleashed a flurry of punches that left Gonzalez wobbly. Gonzalez, was literally saved by the bell as he unsteadily walked back to his corner. Finally in the tenth round, Ramirez cornered Gonzalez on the ropes, unleashing a series of combinations that had no response. The referee waved the fight off, and Gonzalez hugged the referee as if he had just saved him from what would have ultimately happen next if Ramirez had continued.
Now as the winner of the WBA Light Heavyweight Title eliminator, by TKO, Ramirez is the mandatory to challenger for the WBA Light Heavyweight World Championship. A fight Ramirez has been asking for and would like to take on in 2022. “He is a great fighter. I knew he was going to be tough because he showed no fear in his eyes,” said Ramirez. “He had nothing to lose, and I knew he was going to come with everything he had. Thank you Yunieski for taking the fight. “I tried to land body shots and he was prepared. So, I had to change my attacks and focus on hitting him upstairs so I could get the victory. My hand is a little hurt but that is the price you pay to win. I am ready for the next challenge, I want Bivol. He can’t run anymore, I am coming for him,” continued Ramirez. “I dedicate this fight to Vicente Fernandez, a great Mexican legend. I come from Mexico, and he inspired me to live my dream and I want to show everyone that they can live their dreams too. There are no barriers besides yourself,” concluded Ramirez.