John Ryder and former world champion Jaime Munguia will square off in a 12-round super middleweight fight. The explosive fight night is scheduled for Saturday, January 27, at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona.
In a stunning performance hailed as a Fight of the Year Candidate, Munguia(42-0, 33KOs) defeated the gritty, previous world title contender Sergiy Derevyanchenko to earn the WBC silver super middleweight belt in June. Munguía, 27, from Mexico who held the WBO Super Welterweight title from 2018 until 2019, made five successful defenses.
“I am very happy to return to the ring, and I’m excited to be with my people from Phoenix. We know that Ryder is a dangerous rival, but we are prepared for it. We have not stopped training and preparing. I am also very happy to have added Freddie Roach and his team to my camp. We are going to give a great night of boxing to everyone watching, and if we overcome this great test, I hope to see you all again in May. Viva Tijuana and Viva Mexico!” said Munguia in media reports.
When Ryder(32-6, 18KOs) from England fought past the current unchallenged world champion Canelo Alvarez in Massachusetts, it demonstrated his toughness. Several strong competitors have been defeated by him, Daniel Jacobs being the most prominent in 2022.
“I’m glad this fight has been made. I’m looking to kick 2024 off with a bang and make a statement come January 27,” said Ryder in media reports.
“On January 27, the next Mexican superstar of the sport will officially be crowned — and his name is Jamie Munguía. Whether it’s in person or at home on DAZN, fans shouldn’t miss watching Munguía do what Canelo couldn’t — knock John Ryder out,” said Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya.
“We are happy about Jaime’s return to the ring. We are going to show everyone that Munguía is here to fight anyone, we are going to give a great night of boxing to the people of Phoenix and the entire world. Que Viva Mexico!” said CEO of Zanfer Boxing Fernando Beltran.
“I am delighted that we’ve been able to deliver another massive fight for John,” said Matchroom Chairman Eddie Hearn.
