Javier “Rayito” Pedroza has a chance to cause an upset against unbeaten prodigy Floyd Diaz in his next fight
A modern day Cinderella Man story could unfold on June 21st when Mexico’s 29-year-old, 12-year fight veteran Javier “Rayito” Pedroza (18-11-2, 10KO) takes on undefeated Top Rank prospect Floyd Diaz (11-0, 3KO) at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, Las Vegas.
Francisco Javier Pedroza Portillo, known to fans as “Rayito”, only won one from his first five fights in his debut years as a pro between 2012-2013. But his persistence was rewarded and he went on a nine-fight unbeaten streak to set up big fights with Gary Antonio Russell and Rau’shee Warren.
Now, he is set to clash with unbeaten bantamweight prospect, Floyd “Cashflow” Diaz, in a fight that could change his life if he is able to surprise the win.
The Mexican opened up about his training camp, “Preparation has been the best of my life; discipline has always characterised me, but this time applying the experience throughout my 12 years as a professional.
“I was lucky enough to start the year sparring with Jason Moloney for his first title defence against Saul Sanchez, then straight into camp with Jonathan Rodriguez for his WBA Title Eliminator, then later with Luis Nery for his undisputed world title fight in Japan with Inoue.”
Pedroza was defeated by the aforementioned Moloney in April 2022 over 10 rounds in California. Since then, the Aussie star has used his old opponent for sparring.
The man from Tijuana shared just what this next fight means to him, “This fight right now represents a better future for me and my family. I am aware of what Top Rank means in the world of boxing. It is a dream come true that they have given me this opportunity and even more so being in Las Vegas. I want the world to know who I am and I’m ready to show it on June 21.”
Pedroza delivered a final message ahead of his clash, “Boxing is of times and this is mine, I don’t care who you are because I have already faced the best and you are going to know what a true Mexican warrior with hunger is.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in organizing this fight, my advisor Tony Tolj, Matchmaker Brad Goodman and top rank for the opportunity”.
Diaz had over 200 amateur fights and was training with Roger Mayweather in the world famous Mayweather Gym in Las Vegas from the age of six. The top prospect has already fought on the biggest events, such as when he decisioned Luis Saavedra on the Haney-Lomachenko undercard at the MGM Grand in May 2023.
Tune in June 21st on ESPN plus for all the action for another night of Top Rank non stop action in the fight capital of the World, Las Vegas.