Home Boxing News Gilberto Ramirez calls for shot at Dmitry Bivol after defeating Yunieski Gonzalez

Gilberto Ramirez calls for shot at Dmitry Bivol after defeating Yunieski Gonzalez

Gilberto Ramirez vs Yunieski Gonzalez. Photo credit: Stacey M Snyder

Undefeated Mexican light heavyweight Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez 43-0 (29) is gunning for a shot at WBA champion Dmitry Bivol 19-0 (11) following his 10th round victory over Yunieski ‘The Monster’ Gonzalez 21-4 (17) at the AT&T Center in San Antonio, Texas on Saturday night.

The 30-year-old southpaw had his work cut out for him with Miami-based Cuban Gonzalez trading with him on largely even terms for the first four rounds.

Ramirez switched up his game plan in the middle rounds, boxing from range before putting his foot down on the gas in the 10th round. A right hand from Ramirez hurt Gonzalez who retreated to the ropes, only to be finished off be a barrage of blows from the former WBO super middleweight champion.

Referee Rafael Ramos stepped in to save the reeling Gonzalez from any further punishment at the 1:23 mark.

According to CompuBox, Ramirez landed 41.7% of his power shots, while Gonzalez landed 36.7%. Ramirez had a 260-147 edge in punches landed, including a huge fourth round that saw him connect with a career high 41 power punches.

Ramirez said he was always expecting a tough fight.

“He is a great fighter. I knew he was going to be tough because he showed no fear in his eyes,” said Ramirez. “He had nothing to lose, and I knew he was going to come with everything he had. Thank you Yunieski for taking the fight.

“I tried to land body shots and he was prepared. So, I had to change my attacks and focus on hitting him upstairs so I could get the victory. My hand is a little hurt but that is the price you pay to win. I am ready for the next challenge, I want Bivol. He can’t run anymore, I am coming for him.

“I dedicate this fight to Vicente Fernandez, a great Mexican legend. I come from Mexico, and he inspired me to live my dream and I want to show everyone that they can live their dreams too. There are no barriers besides yourself.”

The victory marked Ramirez’s fourth straight stoppage win since moving up in weight  three years ago.

Gonzalez, 36, said he could have performed better and promised to show that in his next fight.

“I am really disappointed in myself,” said Gonzalez. “I always knew Zurdo would be difficult, a tough fighter. But I expected more from myself. This is not the best performance from me, I’m going to back work on myself and get better.”