Vergil Ortiz Announces Multiyear Contract Extension With Golden Boy
By Matthew Brown
07/11/2024
Vergil Ortiz Jr. (21-0, 21 KOs), one of boxing’s most promising talents, has announced a multiyear contract extension with Golden Boy Promotions. Under the guidance of Oscar De La Hoya, Eric Gomez and former matchmaker Robert Diaz, Golden Boy has guided Ortiz’s career from the beginning, shaping him into a rising superstar in the boxing world. This extension signifies Golden Boy’s and Ortiz’s commitment to each other, positioning him as the face of the promotion, in light of the ongoing Ryan García saga.
Ortiz’s new contract is designed to reflect his value and potential, making him one of the highest-paid young contenders in the sport. The deal includes accomplishment escalator clauses, rewarding Ortiz for his achievements and ensuring his continued motivation and success.
On August 10, Ortiz will challenge Serhii Bohachuk (24-1, 23 KOs) for the WBC interim junior middleweight title at the Michelob Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. This fight is highly anticipated and promises to be a thrilling and violent spectacle, aligning with Ortiz’s fan-friendly fighting style.
Ortiz’s fighting style and character has turned him into a major draw and beloved figure amongst boxing fans. In the ring, he’s known for his relentless aggression, powerful punches and knockout ability. Ortiz consistently delivers exciting and action-packed fights. He is a must-watch fighter in every bout. Outside the ring, he is as humble and gracious as it gets, always making time for his fans, especially little kids.
Vergil Ortiz Jr. made his professional debut on July 30, 2016, at the age of 18, winning by first-round knockout against Julio Rodas. From the outset, Ortiz demonstrated a blend of power, precision, and aggression that captivated fans and experts alike. His ability to deliver knockouts in every fight quickly set him apart as a force to be reckoned with in the welterweight division.
One of Ortiz’s early career highlights came in 2019 when he faced the tough Mauricio Herrera. Ortiz dominated the seasoned veteran, winning by knockout in the third round and sending a clear message to the boxing community about his potential. He followed this with impressive victories over Antonio Orozco and Brad Solomon, further cementing his status as a rising star.
In 2021, Ortiz took on Egidijus Kavaliauskas in a highly anticipated bout. Despite facing adversity, Ortiz showcased his resilience and knockout power, stopping Kavaliauskas in the eighth round. This victory earned Ortiz the WBO International welterweight title and elevated his standing in the division.
Ortiz’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. In 2023, Ortiz faced a series of health issues, including a reported bout with rhabdomyolysis that sidelined him for the entire year. The young fighter was hospitalized, and at one point, he feared that his career might be over. However, demonstrating the same determination and grit that he shows in the ring, Ortiz made a remarkable recovery.
Returning to the ring at junior middleweight in 2024, Ortiz has been extremely active, fighting twice already, with the Bohachuk bout being his third time in the ring. His return has been marked by impressive first round knockout performances against Frederic Lawson and Thomas Dulorme, setting the stage for his upcoming bout against Bohachuk. Ortiz will look to capture the WBC interim junior middleweight title and also solidify his status as a future superstar. With his new contract extension in hand, Vergil Ortiz Jr. is poised to lead Golden Boy Promotions into a new era.