Puerto Rico has produced some of boxing’s greatest champions, and undefeated super featherweight Carlos De Leon Castro (9-0, 7 KOs) believes he has what it takes to become the island’s next great star.
The 21-year-old Caguas, Puerto Rico native, who is promoted by Boxlab Promotions, has quickly emerged as one of the island’s most promising young fighters. De Leon has combined speed, power, ring intelligence and an aggressive style to remain perfect through his first nine professional fights.
Most recently, De Leon, a vicious and tenacious fighter, scored another impressive stoppage victory on August 28 at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida, stopping veteran Maxwel Montes to improve to 9-0 with seven knockouts.
“I’m grateful for everything that has happened in my career so far, but I know I still have a lot of work ahead of me,” said De Leon. “Puerto Rico has such a rich history in boxing, and when you think about all the great champions who came before me, it motivates me. I want to earn my place among those names. Nothing is going to be given to me, so I’m going to keep working, keep learning and let my performances speak for themselves.”
De Leon entered the professional ranks with an extensive amateur pedigree. He compiled a 91-4 amateur record, captured multiple Puerto Rican national championships and represented Puerto Rico internationally. He began boxing at just six years old and developed under the guidance of his father, Carlos De Leon Sr.
His amateur experience has translated quickly to the professional game. Since making his debut in June 2024, De Leon has remained undefeated while steadily increasing the level of competition.
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, has witnessed De Leon’s development firsthand from the beginning of his professional career and believes the young Puerto Rican is beginning to show the qualities of a future contender.
“I’ve watched Carlos grow from his professional debut to where he is today, and the development has been very impressive,” said Piedra. “The talent was always there, but what stands out to me is how much more comfortable and mature he has become as a professional fighter. He’s learning how to control the pace, set up his punches and be patient instead of trying to force things. Every fight we’re seeing another layer of his game, and its inspiring.”
Piedra continued, “Carlos is still only 21 years old, so there’s no reason to rush the process. We believe he has the ability and personality to become a major name in Puerto Rican boxing, but he has to earn it. Our job is to keep developing him, continue raising the level of competition and put him in position to succeed when those bigger opportunities come.”
“Representing Puerto Rico means everything to me,” De Leon continued. “Puerto Rican fans know boxing. They expect their fighters to have heart, skills and pride every time they step into the ring. I accept that responsibility. I’m not going to call myself the next great Puerto Rican champion, that’s something I have to prove. But I believe in myself, I believe in my team, and I’m ready to chase that position.”
De Leon grew up admiring Puerto Rican icon Felix “Tito” Trinidad, while today he studies fighters such as Terence Crawford. His own style is built around technical ability, ring IQ and a strong jab, but his seven knockouts in nine professional victories have demonstrated that he also possesses the power to end fights.
For De Leon, the ultimate goal is clear…win a world championship and establish himself as the next great star in Puerto Rican boxing.
“I want to become a world champion and make Puerto Rico proud,” De Leon said. “I know there’s going to be pressure as the fights get bigger, but I welcome it. I’m young, I’m hungry, and I’m willing to fight the best when my time comes. Puerto Rico is ready for its next generation of champions, and I’m working every day to make sure my name is part of that conversation.”
