Undefeated welterweight Vergil Ortiz Jr. will return to the ring in a step-up fight on March 20th when he faces former 140-pound champion Maurice Hooker (pictured). Ortiz Jr (16-0, 16 KOs) faces Hooker (27-1-3, 18 KOs) on a Golden Boy Promotions event in Dallas, Texas, with the fight broadcast live around the world on DAZN. Ortiz is back in action after a run that has so far seen him win all 16 of his fights by knockout. He is excited to taking on Hooker, saying, “first and foremost, I’m really grateful to be fighting back at home again. Not only that, but I’ll be fighting another Dallas native in Maurice Hooker. I’ve known Hooker since back in the amateur days. I know we’re going to give the fans back at home a fight to remember.”

 

Hooker said: “I’ve never been one to shy away from a fight. The decision to fight Ortiz was an easy one as it allows me to prove to the world something that I already know—that I’m one of the best welterweights in the world. I have a new team around me who has taken my game to a whole new level, and I feel amazing at this weight class. I can’t wait to put on a show for all the fans on March 20. Dallas, get ready!”

 

Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya added: “On his rapid ascent from prospect to contender, Vergil has absolutely blown away everyone we have put in front of him, including a former world champion. But with a win over Maurice Hooker, just one fight removed from a significant title reign, on March 20, Vergil can stamp his ticket to a world championship fight.”