Robert Garcia’s Big Night in Phoenix: Five Fighters Ready to Shine

If you’re a boxing fan, you’ll want to keep an eye on Robert Garcia this Saturday in Phoenix. The guy is busy, bringing five fighters to the Top Rank event at the Footprint Center. From fresh prospects to seasoned veterans, Garcia has a full lineup that’s sure to deliver some exciting moments. Plus, with his chance to snag his second Boxing Writers Association of America Trainer of the Year award on the line, you know he’s ready to put on a show.

Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez and Vergil Ortiz Jr. in the Spotlight

At the top of Garcia’s roster are Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez, the unbeaten junior bantamweight champ, and Vergil Ortiz Jr., the WBC interim junior middleweight titleholder. Rodriguez was hoping to fight on that big February 22 card in Saudi Arabia, but it didn’t pan out. Now, he’s looking to unify titles in May against the winner of the upcoming WBA bout between Fernando Martinez and Kosei Tanaka. Garcia said, “Whatever champion, whoever’s available,” showing he’s ready to make a move when the time is right.

Ortiz (22-0, 21 KOs) was recently announced as the next opponent for Israil Madrimov. But Garcia is scratching his head over this one, especially since Madrimov has a tough fight lined up against Serhii Bohachuk on December 21. “If you’ve got a hard fight like Bohachuk, it’s hard to believe he’s going to be ready to face Ortiz just two months later,” he pointed out. It’s a tricky situation that has fans wondering how it will play out.

Promising Talents Set to Impress

Garcia isn’t just focusing on the big names; he’s also got some rising stars in his corner. Giovanni Santillan is back after a knockout loss to Brian Norman Jr. earlier this year. He’ll be taking on Fredrick Lawson, who’s also looking to bounce back from some tough losses. Garcia is confident in Santillan’s mindset, saying, “Losing a fight is part of boxing. It doesn’t mean you’re done.”

Another fighter to watch is Albert “Chop Chop” Gonzalez. This 22-year-old has an unblemished record of 11-0 (7 KOs), and Garcia thinks he’s something special. “This kid’s got discipline and great skills. He’s got the confidence and tools to go far in this sport,” Garcia said. Fans are excited to see how Gonzalez performs against Gerardo Antonio Perez.

Veteran Experience and New Faces

Also in the mix is Lindolfo Delgado, a veteran ranked in the top 15 by the major boxing organizations. He’ll be squaring off against Jackson Marinez, but Garcia believes Delgado is itching for a bigger challenge. “We need to see him against a big name for his breakout performance,” he noted.

And let’s not forget about Cesar Morales, who’s making his pro debut, and Art Barrera Jr., a 19-year-old welterweight with a perfect record of 6-0 (4 KOs). Garcia is excited about these young guns. “Keep an eye on these kids—they can really fight,” he said.