LAS VEGAS (September 30, 2016) – Late replacement Erik “El Trumpo” Ruiz upset Hanzel Martinez in tonight’s “Knockout Night at the D” main event in front of another sold-out crowd at the outdoor Downtown Las Vegas Events Center.
The “Knockout Night at the D” series, presented by the D Las Vegas and Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, is promoted by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions. Hall Of Fame announcers Jim “J.R.” Ross and Al Bernstein called the action from ringside with Sean Wheelock on CBS Sports Network in North America and internationally via ESPN.
Ruiz (16-5-1, 6 KOs) replaced Emmanuel Quartey, who was unable to secure a visa, and he was rewarded with a 10-round majority decision victory over fellow Mexican fighter Hanzel Martinez (23-3, 19 KOs) for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) International super bantamweight title.
“El Trumpo,” fighting out of Oxnard, California, put on a clinic, avoiding the lunging Martinez, who was frustrated throughout the fight by Ruiz’ slickness. Martiniz lunged, Ruiz countered and then he slightly moved to the side, avoiding any potential. Defensively, Ruiz was far superior, keeping Martinez off balance through out the majority of rounds.
“I feel great,” Ruiz exclaimed. “I took this last minute fight but I was ready for it. Hanzel is a tough fighter. He has guts. I didn’t think he’d to the full 10 rounds. This is an opportunity that will open a lot of doors for me. He knew he was coming to fight and I as ready for him.”
