Xander Zayas Announces Himself with a Dominant Victory Over Jorge Garcia Perez

Published in Media and Entertainment on Saturday, August 23rd 2025 at 9:34 GMT by ESPN
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The boxing world got a glimpse of what many believe is a future star on Saturday night in Minneapolis. Eighteen-year-old Xander Zayas delivered a masterful performance, dismantling veteran Jorge Garcia Perez over ten rounds to claim the vacant WBC International Super Lightweight title and solidify his position as one of the most promising young talents in the sport. The unanimous decision victory (100-90, 100-90, 100-90) wasn't just a win; it was a statement.

Zayas, hailing from San Antonio, Texas, entered the fight with considerable hype surrounding him. Touted for his exceptional technical skills, ring IQ beyond his years, and a relentless work ethic, he’s been steadily climbing the ranks under the guidance of renowned trainer Henry Ramirez. While Garcia Perez (24-13, 17 KOs) was considered a durable opponent, many expected Zayas to cruise through the contest. However, few anticipated the sheer dominance displayed by the young pugilist.

From the opening bell, Zayas dictated the pace and distance of the fight. He utilized his superior footwork to control the ring, consistently cutting off Garcia Perez’s angles and preventing him from establishing any rhythm. His jab was a constant weapon, snapping out with precision and setting up powerful combinations. While Garcia Perez attempted to pressure forward, relying on his experience and hoping to wear down Zayas, he found himself repeatedly met by a calm and composed opponent who absorbed punches effectively while firing back with surgical accuracy.

The fight wasn’t without its moments of tactical adjustment. Garcia Perez, recognizing the futility of trying to overpower Zayas head-on, attempted to shift his strategy in the middle rounds, looking for opportunities to clinch and disrupt Zayas' flow. However, Zayas demonstrated remarkable defensive awareness, expertly using footwork and shoulder rolls to avoid prolonged grappling situations and quickly re-establish control. He consistently responded with bursts of activity, reminding Garcia Perez who was in charge.

What truly impressed observers wasn’t just Zayas’ technical prowess but also his maturity and composure under pressure. This was a significant step up in competition for the young fighter, facing an opponent with considerably more professional experience. Yet, he remained unfazed, executing his game plan flawlessly throughout the entire fight. He didn't chase the knockout, instead focusing on accumulating points and showcasing his boxing skills – a testament to Ramirez’s coaching philosophy.

“I felt great,” Zayas said after the fight. “I listened to my corner every round. I knew he was going to try to make it rough, but I stayed calm and stuck to the game plan.” He acknowledged Garcia Perez's toughness, adding, "He's a warrior. He came to fight."

The victory marks a significant milestone in Zayas’ burgeoning career. The WBC International Super Lightweight title is a tangible reward for his dedication and hard work, and it opens up new opportunities for him on the world stage. With this win, he moves closer to challenging higher-ranked contenders and potentially vying for a world championship down the line.

The performance also reignited discussions about the future of American boxing. While the sport has faced challenges in recent years, young talents like Zayas offer a glimmer of hope and excitement. His combination of skill, athleticism, and maturity is rare to find at such a young age, suggesting he could become a major force in the super lightweight division for years to come.

Looking ahead, Zayas’ team will likely be seeking opportunities to build on this momentum. A step-up opponent with a more recognizable name would further elevate his profile and test his skills against a different style of fighter. The boxing world will undoubtedly be watching closely as Xander Zayas continues his ascent towards the pinnacle of professional boxing. His victory over Jorge Garcia Perez wasn't just a win; it was an introduction – an introduction to a rising star who is poised to leave a lasting mark on the sport. The fight itself, streamed live on ESPN+, drew considerable attention and generated significant buzz online. The commentary team highlighted Zayas’ exceptional footwork and ring generalship, while social media erupted with praise for his performance. Many analysts believe that Zayas has the potential to become a household name in boxing, attracting fans of all ages with his exciting style and compelling story. His journey from San Antonio to the national spotlight is just beginning, and the future looks incredibly bright for this young champion.

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Xander Zayas Announces Himself with a Dominant Victory Over Jorge Garcia Perez

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