Facts about Vergil Ortiz Jr.
Portsmouth pugilist Michael McKinson puts his perfect record on the line against fearsome puncher Vergil Ortiz Jr. on August 6 in Fort Worth, Texas.
As the unbeaten American has only ever fought in the States, not a great deal is known by the general boxing community, apart from the hardcore fans who would have been following the exciting prospect's career for some time now. So, for those who aren't already in the know, BBN has listed a few quick facts below about the talented Texan:
Vergil Ortiz Jr. of Grand Prairie, Texas, was born on March 25, 1998.
Young Ortiz began his career at five years old when he was introduced to the sport by his father, Vergil Sr.
He first started began boxing when he was eight years old.
The decorated amateur signed with Oscar De La Hoya's Golden Boy Promotions in 2016.
He is a seven-time national champion and winner of the 2013 Junior Olympics with an impressive amateur record of 140-20.
In 2010, he lost on points to 'Kingry' Ryan Garcia at the Municipal Auditorium in San Antonio; then he was defeated again in 2015 on a split decision at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino, Grand Theatre, Reno.
But he has lots of notable wins in a vest over Reshat Mati; Bruce Carrington; Keeshawn Williams; Luis Coria and many others.
He turned pro over six years ago when he made his professional debut on July 30, 2016 at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.
He works with renowned trainer Robert Garcia, who along with Vergil Ortiz Sr. and Hector Beltran, make up his training team.
His last six fights have seen him take a big step up from prospect to world title level contender, starting with WBA Interim Super Lightweight Champion Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera in 2019, which he won in spectacular fashion via a third-round knockout.
Ortiz is currently undefeated in 18 fights and has won every bout by way of knockout.
He fought on both Canelo vs Golovkin events.
Bio
Height: 5'9" (178cm)
Reach: 72" (183cm)
DOB: March 25, 1998
Age: 24
Birthplace: Dallas, Texas
Hometown: Grand Prairie, Texas
Stance: Orthodox
Wins: 18
Wins by KO: 18
Losses: 0
Draws: 0
KO Ratio: 100%
Roll of Honour
2012 U.S. National Silver Gloves Champion
2013 U.S. National Silver Gloves Champion
2013 U.S. National Junior (Under-17) PAL Champion
2014 U.S. National Silver Gloves Champion
2014 U.S. National Junior (Under-17) PAL Runner-up
2016 U.S. National Golden Gloves Runner-up
WBA Gold welterweight title
WBO International welterweight title
