Oscar De La Hoya, a prominent figure in boxing promotion, is gearing up for an exciting event slated for November 16th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Known as Latino Nights, this event promises to showcase a blend of talent and cultural celebration that resonates deeply with boxing fans worldwide. Scheduled to be broadcast live via DAZN, the exact timing remains under wraps, adding to the air of mystery and anticipation surrounding the event. The highlight of the night appears to be the much-talked-about bout between WBA cruiserweight champion Gilberto Ramirez and WBO champion Chris Billiam-Smith.
However, questions loom over whether the Ramirez versus Billiam-Smith fight genuinely warrants its headliner status. Ramirez’s previous defeat at the hands of Dmitry Bivol—a bout that resulted in a total loss of enthusiasm from many American viewers—paints a challenging picture for his return to the spotlight. Despite bouncing back with victories against Joe Smith Jr. and Arsen Goulamirian, skepticism remains. Many fans had once held high hopes for Ramirez but may find it tough to trust his rise after a disappointing setback that left echoes of uncertainty.
As the card continues to take shape, one fight that stands out and arguably deserves top billing over the main event is the clash between William Zepeda and Tevin Farmer. With an undefeated record of 31-0, including 27 knockouts, Zepeda’s hunger for victory against the seasoned Farmer is palpable. This matchup carries significant implications, as the winner is expected to challenge WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson in early 2024. Excitement is mounting, and fans are eagerly awaiting what many consider the true main event featuring Zepeda.
The Latino Nights event features an impressive undercard, including a standout 12-round fight between former united light welterweight champion Jose Ramirez and Arnold Barboza Jr. This battle holds considerable weight as both fighters are vying for supremacy in a competitive landscape. With Barboza ranked No. 1 with the WBO and Ramirez at No. 4, the stakes could not be higher. Their clash may pave the way for title opportunities for the victor in a sport where every fight can be a stepping stone or a stumbling block.
In addition, lightweight Oscar Duarte faces a last-minute substitute in Botirzhon Akhmedov. While Duarte’s initial opponent, Kenneth Sims, was forced to withdraw, the matchup still presents an intriguing scenario. Challenger Akhmedov is no stranger to hard-hitting bouts, potentially adding excitement to Duarte’s path as he seeks to build on his already respectable record.
As anticipation builds for November 16th and the Latino Nights event unfolds, the eyes of boxing fans will be glued not just to the main event but also to the undercard fights that could redefine the careers of several fighters. With a blend of thrilling matchups and the potential for spectacular moments, this event in Riyadh signifies a pivotal moment in the boxing calendar—one that fans won’t want to miss.