Molina Moves Forward
Los Angeles (June 1, 2018)- In a major crossroads fight Javier Molina 18-2 (8KO’s) of Norwalk, CA faced fellow southern California favorite Jesse Roman 22-4 (11KO’s) with a contract for future fights for promoter Golden Boy on the line.
A local rivalry scrap, Molina fights out of Maywood Boxing Gym and Roman out of Daniel Ponce De Leon’s gym in nearby Montebello, CA both brought crowds that got rowdy early and often.
Molina controlled the majority of the fight against the forward plodding Roman. Loading up to land big shots, Roman ate counter right hands from Molina in most of the exchanges. After eight rounds all three judges scored the fight 78-73 giving Molina the victory.
The win over Roman puts Molina back into contention for a more meaningful fight and better opportunities with Golden Boy having a slew of dates on ESPN to fill.
“We’ve known each other for years, throughout the fight I felt like I was controlling him.” Molina said after the fight.
Molina and Roman Exchange Photo: Lina Baker @seeyouringside
Gramajo Squeezes out Win
Prospect Rafael Gramajo 10-1-2 (2KO’s) took on dangerous late substitute opponent Victor Ruiz 21-9 (14KO’s) after Paul Rubio pulled out a week ahead of the fight due to injury.
Gramajo got off to an early start using speed to catch and shoot on the inside while turning out. After the third round Ruiz got the motor going and took the fight over. Landing big shots the Mexican Ruiz slowed down Gramajo’s attack until the end of the seventh round. In the middle of eating a combination Gramajo landed a left hook that dropped Ruiz to the seat of his pants saving the round.
Ruiz was the toughest opponent Gramajo had ever faced on paper, and almost stopped the momentum for the Garden City fighter who trains out of the famed Westside Boxing Gym in Los Angeles.
After the final bell the judges scorecards read 78-73, and 76-75 (twice) for Gramajo who
Gramajo lands on Ruiz Photo: Lina Baker @seeyouringside
The Professor Returns
Joshua “The Professor” Franco 14-1 (7KO’s) returned to the ring after an upset knockout loss to Lucas Leone in Puerto Rico in March. Mexican veteran Isao Carranza 15-12-1 (9KO’s) fit the bill as an experienced puncher ready to go rounds. Franco control the fight and tempo from the outset with a more polished skillset.
After five rounds of a one sided thrashing Carranza’s corner threw in the towel to save their man for another day. Franco picks up the TKO victory at 1:36 of the fifth round to get back into the winning column.
Franco lands a right hand Photo: Lina Baker @seeyouringside
Alday Dominates Opener
Opening the evening’s bouts Odessa native Joey Alday Jr. 8-0 (7KO’s) went the distance for the first time against tough guy Nam Phan 3-7-1 (2KO)’s of nearby Garden Grove. Alday peppered Phan with crisp uppercuts and shots to the body in a one sided bludgeoning. After four rounds the judges cards read 40-36 on all three for Alday.
Alday Beats Phan Photo: Lina Baker @seeyouringside
