Training with Freddie Roach for Upcoming Bout
Jose Carlos Ramirez will be looking for his 11th win on his pro record when he laces up August 2 in The Chelsea at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas. He will be facing Alfred Romero (7-6, 3 KOs) in an eight-round bout. The 2012 U.S. Olympian took to the stage on Tuesday at the Avalon Hollywood as Top Rank kicked off this upcoming card which will air on HBO’s Boxing After Dark.
Jose (known as “JC”) will be featured on the undercard of the Brandon Rios-Diego Chavez main attraction. Ramirez (10-0, 8 KOs) joined Rios, Jessie Vargas and Anton Novikov in the spotlight as Top Rank President Todd duBoef introduced this fearsome foursome.
After the speeches, I had a chance to catch up with Team Ramirez. Jose was with longtime trainer and godfather Armando Mancinas (a former All Army Champ 1977), manager Rick Mirigian and amateur champ 18-year-old Marisol Lopez (also trained by Mancinas at Kings Boxing Club). The female dynamo recently competed in Bulgaria, winning a bronze medal. The team proudly watched Jose handle media requests like a seasoned pro while remaining humble as he greeted some fans who asked for a photo or autograph.
Central California’s Ramirez, just 21, has already competed on the world’s biggest stage in the Olympic Games and is the “Pride of Avenal” for his ring career in both the amateur and pro circuit. He is also proud to be involved in civic matters; while at the microphone spoke of helping to bring awareness to the California Latino Water Coalition.
He may juggle a lot of plates in and out of the squared circle, but the junior welterweight’s sole focus is on boxing. His team recently began working with famed Wild Card trainer Freddie Roach and Jose says he is a “student of the sport” who enjoys learning new things.
And fans who tune in to catch Ramirez in action will see the young prizefighter continue his ascent in the professional league. He is looking forward to showing the fans what he is made of when he trades leather next month.
“Expect an exciting fighter who’s hungry and determined,” Jose tells me. “Boxing is to hit and not get hit but every time I throw a punch I throw with a lot of determination and power. Boxing is what I love to do!”
He and his team have plans to stay busy for the remainder of the year. The warrior may be fighting in the Fresno area before the year is over, giving Team Ramirez’s Central Cal fans an opportunity to cheer on their local hero.
Look for Jose “JC” Ramirez in the ring at The Cosmopolitan on August 2.
Tickets: 800-745-3000 or www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com
Photos by Michele Chong