Photos By Angel Martinez/Universal Promotions
Undefeated Puerto Rican super featherweight contender Henry “Moncho” Lebron and WBO Global titlist Derlyn Hernandez faced off on Thursday at Universidad de San Juan in advance of Saturday’s co-main event on Wynn Records Network from Coliseíto Pedrín Zorrilla.
Unbeaten women’s super featherweight sensation Kiria Tapia will take on Juliana Basualdo in a 10-round bout for the WBO NABO title as the hometown favorite looks to move one step closer to a world title opportunity. The Wynn Record Network broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET and streams worldwide at www.wynnrecordsnetwork.com.
In featured undercard fights, undefeated heavyweight prospect Giovanni Scuderi will take on Devonte Williams in an eight-round attraction, while top Puerto Rican lightweight prospect Ángel “El Mensajero” Carranza steps into the ring riding a five-fight knockout streak against Kevin Piedrahita in an eight-round bout. In the opening on Wynn Records Network, undefeated featherweight William Colon will face Luis Porozo in a six-round matchup.
The event is promoted by Universal Promotions and Salita Promotions in association with Wynn Records. Fans can watch the fights HERE, as well across connected TV and mobile devices, including Apple TV, Fire TV, Android TV, Roku, iOS, and Android.
Here’s what the participants had to say on Thursday:
Kiria Tapia:
“What I’m experiencing right now is truly a blessing. I’m coming into this fight well prepared. I know the quality Juliana Basualdo brings, and I know we’re going to put on a great fight. On Saturday night, you’re going to see the very best version of Kiria Tapia.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Universal Promotions for believing in me and supporting me throughout this journey. I’m also honored to have Salita Promotions and Wynn Records open their doors and give me the opportunity to be part of their platforms. I’m especially grateful to the Municipality of San Juan for giving me the opportunity to be an example for the youth who, just like me, come from public housing.”
Juliana Basualdo:
“I’m very happy to be here in Puerto Rico. I know the level of Kiria Tapia and the challenge that awaits me. We’ve worked extremely hard to prepare for this opportunity. I want that championship, and I’m coming here to take it home. I hope the best fighter wins, but all I ask for is a fair decision. I know I have what it takes to win this fight.”
Henry Lebrón:
“We’re ready to continue climbing the rankings and put ourselves in position for a world championship opportunity. Derlyn is a strong fighter, and I know he’s coming in hungry and determined. I’ve prepared myself to show my true level and prove what I’m capable of. This is my moment, and on Saturday night, I’m taking that championship home with me.”
Derlyn Hernández:
“I’m grateful for this great opportunity to defend my championship. Lebrón is one of the best fighters Puerto Rico has to offer, but I’ve prepared myself to make sure he doesn’t have the opportunity to shine. I’m ready for whatever he brings. This is going to be a war between two real fighters, and I’m ready to defend what’s mine.”
Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions:
“We’re very grateful to San Juan for welcoming us here. We’re committed to reigniting the fire for Puerto Rican boxing, which is one of the greatest places for producing champions. We’re excited to partner with Universal to start that fire.
“We’re grateful that the WBO will recognize two of the fights on this card. Belts do matter and the WBO has supported boxing in Puerto Rico for generations.
“Saturday will represent some of the best fighters of Puerto Rico, live on Wynn Records Network. This is our third show here this year and we’re committed to unearthing the next generation of boxing stars on the island.”
Javier Bustillo, President of Universal Promotions:
“We are extremely proud of the relationship we have built with Salita Promotions and Wynn Records, and of what we are accomplishing together for Puerto Rican boxing. This partnership allows us to combine our local experience and talent with an international platform capable of taking our fighters to new markets and audiences.
“For Universal Promotions, it is a privilege to bring championship fights and high-level WBO title bouts to Puerto Rico, reaffirming the island’s place on the global boxing stage. We want to continue providing our fighters with the opportunities they need to climb the rankings, win titles, and ultimately become world champions.
“Puerto Rico has an extraordinary history in boxing, and we are committed to writing new chapters of that history alongside our partners. This partnership is only getting started, and we are confident that many great nights and future champions are ahead for Puerto Rico.”
