Friday Fights Bring Out the Champs!
Here’s a quick look at the star-studded “Path to Glory” fight night presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions. President/Promoter Ken Thompson and General Manager/Matchmaker Alex Camponovo always do a bang-up job to give the crowd competitive full-action fights.
Last night was no different as the warriors went toe to toe in five exciting bouts at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, California.
Local fan favorite Rigo Flores brings a huge following from Maywood gym. His stablemates and fans saw him win his sixth pro fight in a unanimous decision over the rugged Joaquin Chavez. Flores always brings the fire and fans know they can expect a war whenever he steps in the ring.
In the main event, Pennsylvania’s Miguel Diaz was upset by Texas’ Joseph Rios, who becomes the new WBC USNBC Flyweight Champion.
And the champs and fighters in attendance were overflowing as the fans packed the ballroom.
The “Riverside Rocky” Josesito Lopez was there, just six days after his courageous battle versus Canelo. Lopez was besieged by the audience and the new “People’s Champ” obliged all fans with a photo or autograph. After a three-month media blitz that came from busting Victor Ortiz’s jaw, Jose told me he’ll take some time off (and a much-deserved break) before choosing his next opponent. Look for him to return in four months or so as the options continue to open up in the 140 and 147 division.
Daniel Ponce De Leon also got a hero’s welcome on the heels of his upset victory over Jhonny Gonzalez for the WBC Featherweight strap. Ponce’s hard work paid off as he can now enjoy the fruits of his labor in the gleaming gold and green belt. Fans surrounded De Leon offering him their congratulations.
Another hard hitter at “Path to Glory” is also a new addition to Team Thompson. Popular slugger Israel Vazquez put down the gloves and picked up the headset as he was on duty for the fight broadcast. “El Magnifico” is proving he’s a KO artist as a boxing commentator as well
Rounding out the list of special guests were many other champions and contenders including Antonio Diaz, Stevie Quinonez, Charles Huerta, up-and-comer Richard Contreras (fighting October 19), female fighter Lissette Medel (fighting October 19) Urbano Antillon, Oscar Venegas, Sal Casillas, Danny “Little Red” Lopez, Bobby “Schoolboy” Chacon, Rodolfo “El Gato” Gonzalez, Mando Muniz, Hall of Fame cutman Miguel Diaz, and many more who were announced in the ring by emcee Sonny Franco.
It’s been a banner year for Thompson Boxing, who also had fighters on Showtime’s broadcast from Chumash.
Southland fans can catch their next live show in Ontario on October 19.
For now, check out some of my snapshots from the Friday night bash.
And see you at the fights!
Photos by Michele Chong
