The most busy night of trainer Robert Garcia in Phoenix

Robert Garcia is once again juggling a packed schedule as he prepares to corner five fighters on Saturday’s Top Rank card at Phoenix’s Footprint Center. The highly respected boxing trainer, known for his exceptional skills, will oversee a mix of undefeated prospects and experienced contenders. With a potential second Boxing Writers Association of America Trainer of the Year award on the horizon, Garcia’s focus remains on his top stars and their upcoming bouts.

Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez & Vergil Ortiz Jr.: Garcia’s Top Fighters

At the top of Robert Garcia’s roster are Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez and Vergil Ortiz Jr., two of the most exciting fighters in boxing today. Rodriguez, the undefeated junior bantamweight champion, is targeting a unification fight in May. Although his plans for a bout in Saudi Arabia fell through, Garcia revealed that Rodriguez is now focused on facing the winner of either the WBA or IBF junior bantamweight title fights. “Whatever champion is available,” Garcia stated confidently.

Vergil Ortiz Jr., with a perfect 22-0 record (21 KOs), is set for a major challenge in his next fight. Ortiz will face former WBA junior middleweight titlelist Israil Madrimov on February 22. However, Garcia voiced his concerns over Madrimov’s ability to be fully prepared after a tough December 21 matchup against Serhii Bohachuk. Garcia questioned the feasibility of Madrimov participating in two demanding training camps, saying, “It’s hard to believe he can get through two hard camps and be 100%.”

Giovanni Santillan’s Comeback and Rising Prospects

Alongside his top stars, Garcia will be guiding the return of Giovanni Santillan, a former lightweight title contender. Santillan, with a 32-1 record (17 KOs), will face Fredrick Lawson after suffering a knockout loss to Brian Norman Jr. in May. Garcia reassured fans, noting that Santillan is mentally prepared and ready for a strong comeback. “Losing a fight is part of boxing; it’s not the end. He’s ready for this challenge,” Garcia explained.

In addition to his veterans, Garcia has his eye on young talent like Albert “Chop Chop” Gonzalez, an undefeated junior lightweight prospect. At just 22 years old, Gonzalez, who boasts an 11-0 record (7 KOs), is quickly gaining attention. Garcia praised Gonzalez’s discipline, skills, and confidence, saying, “He’s one of the special ones. He has everything needed to be a champion.”

Lindolfo Delgado’s Next Challenge

Another standout fighter in Garcia’s stable is Lindolfo Delgado, a 140lbs contender from Mexico. With a 21-0 record (15 KOs), Delgado is ranked highly by the WBO, IBF, and WBC. Garcia, however, emphasized that Delgado needs a high-profile opponent to truly showcase his skills. “He needs a big fight to bring out the best in him,” Garcia said, highlighting that Delgado’s motivation is linked to facing stronger competition.

Garcia is also preparing his younger prospects, including Cesar Morales, who will make his professional debut, and Art Barrera Jr., a 19-year-old welterweight with an impressive 6-0 (4 KOs) record. Garcia believes both fighters have the potential to make a major impact in the sport.

A Promising Night for Robert Garcia and His Fighters

Saturday’s event at Phoenix’s Footprint Center will be a true test for Robert Garcia, as he manages a hectic schedule with multiple fighters in action. From Jesse Rodriguez and Vergil Ortiz Jr. to Giovanni Santillan, Albert Gonzalez, and Lindolfo Delgado, Garcia’s fighters are ready to make their mark. Garcia credits his assistant trainers for helping manage the busy night, ensuring that each fighter has the support they need. With a focus on developing future champions and seizing new opportunities, Garcia is determined to guide his fighters to success in the ring.