Boxing
Rashidi Ellis vs. Alexis Rocha and Marlen Esparza vs. Sulem Urbina added to Jaime Munguia vs. Tureano Johnson
Seven days ago, it was announced that Jaime Munguia would be meeting Tureano Johnson on Friday, October 30, at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif., exclusively on DAZN.
The main card is taking shape as the co-feature will have two unbeaten welterweight prospects when Rashidi Ellis battles Alexis Rocha in a 10-round affair. Also, Marlen Esparza takes on Sulem Urbina in a WBC flyweight title eliminator.
“Boxing fans want to see competitive matchups, and that’s exactly what we are delivering,” Oscar De La Hoya, chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, said in a press release. “Rashidi Ellis and Alexis Rocha have spent the past few years climbing up the rankings on many of our shows. But now, they will risk their undefeated records against each other for a chance to get one step closer to a world title. That same night, we’ll also be presenting another historic matchup for women’s boxing as Olympic Bronze medalist Marlen Esparza takes on standout contender Sulem Urbina. We can’t wait to host this stacked night of action.”
After competing three times in 2018, Ellis (22-0, 14 KOs) stepped through the ropes only one time in 2019, a unanimous decision win over Eddie Gomez. Ellis is excited to get back inside the ring and continue his march toward his first world title shot.
“I’m finally back in the ring on October 30,” Ellis said. “And I’m happy that it will be at my favorite place, Fantasy Springs Resort Casino. This is going to be a very exciting night for boxing fans. How often do you get to see two young, undefeated contenders face each in their prime? Alexis Rocha is a tough fighter, but I need to show the world that I’m ready for a title shot. Make sure you stay tuned!”
Unlike Ellis, Rocha (16-0, 10 KOs) has fought in 2020, defeating Brad Solomon in February via unanimous decision in what was his toughest test up to this point. With Ellis, Rocha receives his sternest competition against a fellow unbeaten rising contender.
“What people don’t know is I wanted this fight a year ago, but Rashidi and his team turned it down,” Rocha said. “There’s been a lot of talk about the future of boxing and upcoming stars, and I’ve felt slighted because I haven’t been in that conversation. Rashidi said something about how he’s just fighting another name. I can promise you I’m not just another name. And when this is over, Rashidi and the entire world of boxing are going to know more than my name: They are going to know that I’m ready to carry the sport forward into a new generation of champions.”
