Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez Return Confirmed With Opponent Named

The return of the legendary Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez (51-4, 41 KOs) has been confirmed for July 12 at the Polideportivo Alexis Argüello in Managua, Nicaragua, where he will take on Colombian fighter Rober Barrera (27-5, 17 KOs) in a 10-round bantamweight main event. The main event and additional fights will be streamed live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.

Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez Next Fight Confirmed

Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez vs. Rober Barrera

After 19 months out of the ring, the legendary former four-division world champion “Chocolatito” is returning to the ring to take on Colombian challenger Barrera. The one-time pound-for-pound king was last seen in the ring when he lost a narrow majority decision to Juan Francisco Estrada. That narrow defeat was the culmination – of a fascinating trilogy between the two pugilists.

The Nicaraguan legend has won titles at minimumweight, light flyweight, flyweight, and junior bantamweight during his storied 19-year professional career. He scored memorable wins against Julio Cesar Martinez, Israel Gonzalez and Carlos Cuadras. His opponent has scored his most memorable victories over Jimson Garcia and Carlos Canizales.

‘Chocolatito’ Boxing Strengths

Gonzalez is an exceptional boxer who has shined in multiple weight divisions. The Nicaraguan fighter is brilliant at walking down his opponents. He excels at this with his great footwork. “Chocolatito” carries plenty of spite in his punches, but he’s thoughtful with his output, picking his punches impressively.

His defensive skills are another asset which sees him effectively cover up to avoid being countered. When he cuts off the ring and lets his hands go, it’s easy to see why Gonzalez is regarded as one of the greatest fighters in modern times. Hopefully, this comeback fight will lead to bigger opportunities.

Rest of the Card

Eveling Ortega (7-5, 2 KOs) vs. Karol Mazariegos Gonzalez (7-1-1, 3 KOs), 8 Rounds, Light Flyweights
Kevin Vivas (7-2, 2 KOs) vs. Azael Villar (20-3-4, 15 KOs), 8 Rounds, Light Flyweights
Michael Carmona (5-0, 3 KOs) vs. Edwin Cano Hernandez (12-2-1, 3 KOs), 8 Rounds, Minimumweights
Jeffrey Gonzalez (2-0) vs. Andres Quesada (2-0), 4 Rounds, Heavyweights