American former world champion Jose Ramirez has joined Golden Boy’s stable of fighters on a multi-year contract which will see him fighting on the global broadcasting streaming service DAZN. Ramirez had previously been contracted to Top Rank for the majority of his career but now appears to have made a career switch as he likely aims to become a world champion in the near future.
Jose Ramirez’ (28-1, 18 KO’s) world title ambitions are made easier given the wide availability of super lightweight fighters signed to Golden Boy and other promotions linked to DAZN, including Matchroom. 140 lbs contenders such as Ryan Garcia (24-1, 20 KO’s), Arnold Barboza Jr. (29-0, 11 KO’s) and Ismael Barroso (25-4-2, 23 KO’s) are all currently signed to Golden Boy and can provide a path for Ramirez to obtain a coveted world title.
His best opportunity will come through Barroso who recently conquered the WBA interim super lightweight title to land a future fight against WBA champion-in-recess Rolando Romero (15-1, 13 KO’s). Defeating Barroso will ensure that Ramirez is set for a world title bout once he claims Barroso’s interim title, allowing Ramirez to fight for the chance to become a two-time world champion.
Jose Ramirez had previously already had world titles, capturing the WBC 140 lbs title in 2018 before unifying against then-WBO champion Maurice Hooker to become a unified champion. In 2021, Ramirez would end up losing for the first time of his career against fellow unified champion Josh Taylor (19-1, 13 KO’s) who became undisputed in the process.
Since his loss, Ramirez has maintained a two-win streak with one victory coming by way of knockout; his last match against former IBF lightweight champion Richard Commey (30-5-1, 27 KO’s) in 2023.
Aside from being able to go the WBA route, Ramirez can also endeavor to fight WBC super lightweight champion Devin Haney (31-0, 15 KO’s) who has recently partnered with Matchroom and appears to be looking for a new opponent since Ryan Garcia withdrew from facing him.
Additionally, 140 lbs boogeyman and IBF champion Subriel Matias (20-1, 20 KO’s) has also been reported to be looking for opponents and provides yet another option for Ramirez, if the American is willing to face Matias whose record currently boasts a 100% KO ratio.
