Jose Ramirez returns to the ring in his Central Valley home, looking to redeem the first professional loss of his career.
In his first bout since losing a decision to Josh Taylor for the unified 140-pound world title, Avenal-native Ramirez (26-1, 17 KO) faces a formidable opponent in Jose Pedraza (29-3, 14 KO) tonight at the Save Mart Center.
The winner of the scheduled 12-rounder will claim the WBO international junior welterweight title.
Ramirez, the former holder of the WBC and WBO crowns, was knocked down for the first two times in his career against Taylor.
Related Story: Jose Ramirez Fight Delayed After Opponent Tests Positive for COVID
Olympic Medalist Torrez Makes Pro Debut
On the undercard, Olympic silver medalist Richard Torrez Jr. of Tulare will make his professional debut, taking on Allen Melson (6-3, 3 KO) in a heavyweight fight.
Torrez turns pro after his standout performance at the Tokyo Games last year. He will have his father, Richard Torrez Sr., in his corner.
Preliminaries start at 4:15 p.m. The entire nine-match card will be streamed on ESPN+. Torrez’s fight is estimated to start around 8:20 p.m. Ramirez is scheduled to hit the ring around 9 p.m.
Related Story: Frenzied Save Mart Crowd Helps Propel Ramirez to Comeback Win
