Two-time world title challenger Joet Gonzalez 25-2 (15) will meet former WBO super bantamweight champion Isaac Dogboe 23-2 (15) in a featherweight crossroads bout over 10 rounds at the Grand Casino in Hinckley, Minnesota on Saturday night.
The 28-year-old Gonzalez has only ever lost at the highest level, dropping decisions to Shakur Stevenson and Emanuel Navarrete, both times in bouts for the WBO featherweight championship. He got back in the win column with a ninth-round stoppage of Jeo Santisima this past March.
Gonzalez sees victory over Dogboe as a way to get back to the big time.
“This fight has a little bit of everything. There’s motivation. There’s a little more pressure because the opportunity is there for a third world title shot. But I got to get the job done. I’ve got to get past Isaac Dogboe first and then go from there,” Gonzalez said.
“I took a lot from the Navarrete fight. You live and learn each and every day. From that fight, I think I showed most of the people what I’m about and what I’m willing to do to get my hand raised.
“Unfortunately, I didn’t get my hand raised, but I was in that fight for all 12 rounds. If I was hurt, I wouldn’t have fought the way I fought. For the most part, I made that fight exciting. But it is what it is and now I can’t wait to face Isaac Dogboe.
“You can expect another exciting fight. I’m here to entertain the fans. I’d fight whoever and whenever. I’d fight all the top fighters. Expect another great fight from me.”
Dogboe, 27, moved up to the 126-pound weight class following back-to-back losses to Navarrete in 2018 and 2019. Since then, he has strung together three wins against Chris Avalos, Adam Lopez and Christopher Diaz, with the last two victories coming via majority decision.
Dogboe knows he needs to get a win over Gonzalez to get himself back into the world title mix.
“One thing I believe is that without risk there is no reward. I love the challenge. I’m always willing to go in there with whoever is in front of me,” Dogboe said.
“I’m really looking forward to this fight. I know that Joet is going to bring it. I’m really looking forward to what he’s going to bring.
“Camp has been great [with Barry Hunter]. That’s one of the best places that one can find themselves, especially after going through everything I have gone through. He’s always been there. The entire team as well, not just him.
“We push each other. There are times where I should be learning how to box, but then Isaac Dogboe just ends up being Isaac Dogboe and just comes out with all guns blazing because he wants to let off steam. But it’s been a gradual process. I’m really thankful for my team.”
