Rhode Island has produced its share of boxing stars over the years, from Hall of Famer Vinny Paz to former champion Demetrius Andrade (who returns to action on July 24th at CES Boxing's Championship Jackpot) and longtime contender Peter Manfredo Jr. On Saturday, June 27th, CES Boxing's show at The Park in Cranston will provide fans with an opportunity to witness the next wave of Ocean State talent as Will Guilmette, Tyler Macari and Kevin Mojica continue their ascent through the professional ranks. For all three fighters, this represents a chance to display their skills in front of family, friends, and hometown supporters while carrying forward Rhode Island's rich boxing tradition. Tickets can be purchased at Cesfights.com.
Coventry's Will Guilmette (2-0, 2 KOs) has quickly become an intriguing young New England boxer. By day, the 24-year old works as an apprentice electrician with IBEW Local 99. After a grueling day of work, he trades in his insulating gloves for boxing gloves. It's a balancing act familiar to many fighters from boxing's blue-collar roots, but Guilmette has embraced it. That work ethic has translated into the ring. Guilmette was a multi-sport athlete until age 13, when he first stepped into a boxing gym. It was love at first sight. He immediately left the other sports behind in favor of the sweet science, where he built a strong amateur résumé that included winning the 2022 Southern New England Elite Open Golden Gloves.
Ten years later, the six-foot super middleweight is preparing for another career milestone when he competes in his first professional main event in Cranston, just minutes from where his boxing journey began. Saturday night is another opportunity for the Peter Manfredo Sr. trained Guilmette to show why many local observers believe he has the tools to become Rhode Island's next breakout star.
If anyone on the card understands the significance of fighting at The Park, it's Cranston native Tyler "My Time" Macari (3-0, 3 KOs). The 26-year old's boxing roots run deep. He first entered a boxing gym at just nine years old after being inspired by his father, Mike, a former Golden Gloves champion. What began as a childhood activity gradually evolved into a serious pursuit as Macari discovered both a talent and passion for the sport. Before turning professional, Macari established himself as one of Rhode Island's top amateur fighters. He captured the prestigious Jimmy Burchfield Classic Invitational Tournament three times, earning a reputation for his skill, toughness, and ring IQ. Now a junior middleweight, Macari continues to build momentum while developing a loyal following among Rhode Island boxing fans. The Cranston native will walk into The Park for the second consecutive time surrounded by friends, family, former coaches, and supporters who have watched his journey from the amateur ranks to the professional stage.
Few fighters on the card have generated as much excitement early in their professional careers as Kevin "Kut Throat" Mojica (4-0, 4 KOs). Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Johnston, Mojica has quickly established himself as one of the area's most entertaining young fighters. A tall welterweight at 5-foot-11, the southpaw has compiled an undefeated record while showcasing explosive power and an aggressive style that has made him a fan favorite. In his most recent appearance, he delivered another stoppage victory, ending the night with a crushing body-shot that further enhanced his reputation as one to look out for in the region. CES Boxing has repeatedly highlighted Mojica's ability to bring excitement every time he steps into the ring, and local fans have responded accordingly. His bouts have become must see attractions for those who appreciate offensive-minded fighters willing to take risks and deliver excitement.
One of the most encouraging signs for Rhode Island boxing is that Guilmette, Macari, Mojica, alongside fellow unbeaten CES prospects including junior middleweight Victor Reynoso and super middleweight Ayowole Tom Jones are all only at the beginning of their careers. Together, they represent the next generation of fighters hoping to follow in the footsteps of the champions who came before them while forging legacies of their own. On June 27th at The Park, Rhode Island's boxing future won't be watching from the stands — it will be stepping through the ropes.
