Top Rank has confirmed that WBC/WBO 140lbs champion Jose Ramirez will finally meet mandatory challenger Viktor Postol at ‘The Bubble’ in the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, on August 29.
Ramirez and Postol (31-2, 12 KOs) were originally set to fight on February 2 in China then May 9 in Fresno, California, before the Covid-19 Pandemic disrupted those plans.
A win for Ramirez sees a potentially thrilling unification clash against WBA Super and IBF title-holder Josh Taylor edge a bit closer.
“I’m excited to finally be back. It’s always an honour stepping into the ring, fighting a guy like Postol and defending my belts,” said Ramirez (25-0, 17 KOs). “God knows that my goal is to become the undisputed champion, and this gets me one step closer to my goal.”
Postol, a former WBC champion at the weight, added, “I’m just looking forward to fighting. I’m coming to win those world titles. I have been training since this fight was first announced, so I’m focused and ready to go.”
In a 10-round supporting contest at 140lbs, Californian Arnold Barboza Jr. will face rugged Canadian veteran Tony Luis.
“Tony Luis is as tough as they come. He won’t lay down for me. He sees this as a big opportunity, and I can’t let him take it,” said Barboza (23-0, 10 KOs). “To be honest, the whole no fans thing, I’m more curious than anything. I’ve fought in front of limited fans deep on undercards before. Once you’re in the ring, there’s no difference. I am happy to be part of this ‘Bubble’ experience because it will go down in history.”
The widely avoided Luis (29-3, 10 KOs) added: “I knew this pandemic would be a test of character and I forced myself to stay dedicated, knowing that if an opportunity arose, I’d be ready to strike. I have not lost in over five years, I’m in the best shape in my life, and I feel that Arnold Barboza Jr. is the perfect opponent to showcase my skills and take my career to the next level. Everyone dreams of fighting in Las Vegas. On August 29, my dream will come true, and I plan to make the most of this opportunity. For a small-town kid, we proved a lot of people wrong. Let’s get it on.”