Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez (45-1, 30 KOs) seeks to become the first-ever Mexican cruiserweight titleholder when he takes on Arsen Goulamirian (27-0, 19 KOs) this Saturday.
Their clash headlines a Golden Boy Promotions card at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, CA. DAZN will broadcast the fight worldwide. Goulamirian will be making the fourth defence of his WBA strap (not including secondary title defences). Ahead of their March 30 clash, the two boxers spoke at a final press conference. Below is what they had to say.
Zurdo Ramírez Looking to Create History Against Arsen Goulamirian
Arsen Goulamirian
“I am excited to fight for the first time in the United States and of all places Los Angeles,” said Goulamirian. “I know Zurdo wants to be a world champion, but he’s going to have to go through me first, but he will have to face a real cruiserweight. I have been telling my trainer, Abel Sanchez, that I wanted to fight here in the United States for years, and I am glad that I will be able to do this now.”
Zurdo Ramírez
“I’m ready to become the first Mexican cruiserweight champion,” said Ramírez. “When I made the move to this division, I knew I would have to face Arsen down the line. I feel comfortable at this weight class and will look to become the undisputed Champion. I want to thank DAZN, Golden Boy, the WBA, my team and family for all the support and I look forward to seeing everyone on the 30th.”
Fight Prediction
Goulamirian was once a secondary cruiserweight titleholder. Once Oleksandr Usyk vacated the WBA belt, he was promoted to full titlist. All of this was back in mid-2019. He has only fought three times since the promotion. Despite being at the weight for much longer than Ramírez has, the lack of activity should have some impact on his performance.
“Zurdo” will have a height and reach advantage but needs to adjust to facing his first full-blown cruiserweight (Joe Smith Jr. was a light heavyweight fighting at a 193-lb catchweight). Although he dominated against Smith, he could not get the stoppage. We anticipate a closer-than-expected fight in which Ramírez eventually ekes out a unanimous decision win.
Full Press Conference
For the full press conference featuring Goulamirian, Ramírez and more, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of Golden Boy Promotions.
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