Xander Zayas at Madison Square Garden
This Saturday, July 26, undefeated Puerto Rican phenom Xander Zayas (21-0, 13 KOs) steps into the ring at Madison Square Garden’s Theater for the most important fight of his career. He faces dangerous Mexican knockout artist Jorge García (33-4, 26 KOs) for the vacant WBO junior middleweight world title.
At just 22 years old, Zayas is living the dream he’s chased since childhood. With seven previous fights at MSG, he’s no stranger to the spotlight. Now, he’s ready to make history.
“It’s My Time,” Says Zayas
During Thursday’s press conference, Zayas expressed confidence in his preparation.
“This is fight number 22 in MSG,” he said. “My sparring, nutrition, and focus were on point. For the first time, I even bought a camp house. I’m more than ready.”
Moreover, he declared: “Puerto Rico will have a new world champion come Saturday night.”
García Believes It’s His Moment Too
Meanwhile, Jorge García is just as hungry for victory. The heavy-handed challenger stated:
“My family and I said 2025 would be our year. I’ve worked my entire life for this. Zayas is good—but I’m ready to shock the world.”
A Power-Packed Tripleheader on ESPN
The action won’t stop with the main event. A stacked tripleheader airs live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.
Also featuring:
- Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (15-0) vs. Mateus Heita (14-0) – Interim WBC Featherweight Title
- Emiliano Fernando Vargas (14-0) vs. Alexander Espinoza – NABF Jr. Super Lightweight Title
Early Undercard Showcases Caribbean Talent
Starting at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN+, fans can enjoy early bouts featuring rising stars like:
- Rohan Polanco vs. Quinton Randall
- Juanmita López De Jesús vs. Jorge González-Sánchez
- Yan Santana vs. Aaron Alameda
- Steven Navarro vs. Cristopher Rios
- Julius Ballo vs. Brandan Ayala
Don’t Miss This Epic Night of Boxing
This is more than just a fight card—it’s a showcase of future champions. From Zayas’s title shot to elite undercard talent, Saturday night promises drama, action, and legacy.
