(March 31, 2011 ) – Cuban bruiser Luis Ortiz will be in action on April 23rd in Miami. Currently unbeaten in six professional fights, Ortiz holds the WBC FECARBOX heavyweight title and is rising rapidly in the world ratings. Nicknamed “Big Thing” because of his powerful physique – at 6’4”, 235 lbs he resembles the young, lean Riddick Bowe – Ortiz has already scored dominant wins over seasoned pros Zack Page and Kendrick Releford. Prior to turning pro, Ortiz was a long-term member of Cuba’s national boxing team, during which he fought hundreds of bouts and ranked perennially among the world’s leading amateurs.
This correspondent has covered Ortiz’s fights from ringside several times and is impressed with the southpaw’s strength, power, and fluidity. He packs serious power in both mitts, moves well on his feet, and mixes his punches nicely in combination. The inside word from world-rated heavyweights who have sparred with Ortiz, and from trainers who have observed him in the gym, is that the Cuban is a very serious talent. Right now, Oritz needs to obtain experience pacing himself under pressure for a full ten or 12 rounds, after which he may be ready to face world-rated opponents. Probably another four or five tough fights against rugged fringe contenders will give Ortiz the polish he needs to step up in class. Already, Ortiz is rated 21st by the WBC, which represents phenomenally fast progress for a prospect with only six fights under his belt.
Also appearing on the card will be world-rated lightweight contender Richard “El Tigre” Abril. Currently rated 12th by the WBC and 13th by the WBA, the slick boxing Abril is known for his agile defensive moves and rapier-like left jab. Abril’s pro record is 14-2-1 (seven KO’s), both losses being highly controversial decisions against world-ranked opponents.
The April 23rd card, which is promoted by Dream Team Boxing Promotions in association with Dade Promotions and Promociones Miguel Cotto, will feature 14 fights. Among the boxers on the card are many top-notch prospects from Latin America who rate a serious chance of establishing themselves as world-level contenders.
The promotion will be staged at The Miami Dade Fair/Expo Center. For more information, call 305-917-5656 or 917-278-2514, or go online to www.dreamteamboxingpromotions.com.