Tonight on the Top Rank promoted Robeisy Ramirez-Rafael Espinoza card, junior-middleweight contender Xander Zayas plans on making a statement when he faces Jorge Fortea (24-3-1, 9 KOs) at the Charles F. Dodge City Center in Pembroke Pines, Florida, live on ESPN.
Xander Zayas is a star on the rise, and the 21-year-old contender wants to end the year on a high note. Zayas is gradually increasing his level of competition, and he estimates that within the next calendar year, he’ll be ready to compete in a world title match.
A native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Xander Zayas signed a professional boxing contract with Top Rank at the age of 16. He made his debut back in October 2019 when he defeated Genesis Wynn by way of first round knockout.
The last time Zayas competed inside the squared circle was in September 2023 when he faced Roberto Valenzuela Jr. On paper, Valenzuela appeared to be solid opposition as he came into the bout with a record of (21-4, 20 KOs).
In the first minute of the opening round, Zayas caught Valenzuela coming in as he landed a left hook that sent Valenzuela down to the canvas. Later in the same round, Valenzuela would go down a second time when Zayas connected with the right hook.
In the 5th round, with his opponent suffering from a severely bloodied nose, Zayas landed a couple of hard, clean single shots that forced the referee to step in and put a halt to the contest.
Now Xander Zayas (17-0, 11 KOs) has his sights set on facing a veteran opponent and collecting his third victory of the year.
Jorge Fortea is coming into this contest looking to play the spoiler role and, at the same time, create more opportunities for himself.
Fortea is a boxer who has good footwork and hand speed, and he throws a lot of combinations. Fortea feels ready and confident in regard to his fight on Saturday night.
“This is boxing, anything can happen. I’ve prepared very well because they notified me of this fight ahead of time. Normally, I’m not notified ahead of time. That’s why I’m very prepared,” Fortea stated.
As for his opponent, Xander Zayas, the future is looking very bright for the number two-ranked WBO junior-middleweight contender, but on Saturday night, he must remain focused on the immediate task that lies ahead.
“I am determined to close the year with a bang and to continue positioning myself as one of the main contenders at junior-middleweight,” Zayas said.
“In the new year, I’m aiming to continue my climb up the ranks step by step. That is why I push myself to give my all every day in the gym. You will see a better version of me every time I fight.”
