Former US amateur star Karlos Balderas has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Top Rank.
The 10-fight pro from Santa Maria, California, will make his Top Rank debut in Las Vegas on August 14.
After fighting most of his pro career to date as a lightweight, Balderas will now campaign as a super-lightweight. The 25-year-old will build towards a projected world title tilt with Buddy McGirt as his head trainer and a new manager in Sam Katkovski of Churchill Management.
“Karlos Balderas was one of the most talented fighters coming out of the 2016 Rio Olympics, and I strongly believe he still has what it takes to become a world champion,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “Buddy McGirt is a fantastic trainer who I’m confident will tap into Karlos’ boundless potential.”
The Californian advanced to the quarterfinals of the lightweight tournament at the Rio Olympics, the conclusion of a reported 175-9 amateur record. His last pro appearance was a surprise sixth-round stoppage loss against Rene Tellez Giron in December 2019, but Balderas hopes a new manager, trainer and promoter will revive his fortunes.
Balderas (9-1, 8 KOs) added: “When I first turned pro, deep down inside, I knew Top Rank was the way to go. With the talent and excitement I bring to the table, they’re going to promote the hell out of me. Thank you to Sam Katkovski, Bob Arum and everyone at Top Rank. I always come back better and stronger. Don’t believe me? Just watch!”