Xander Zayas, the Rising Puerto Rican Boxing Prodigy, Faces Pivotal Moment in Career
At just 21 years old, Puerto Rican junior middleweight Xander Zayas finds himself at a critical juncture in his burgeoning boxing career. With an impressive undefeated record of 18-0 (12 KOs), Zayas is set to headline his first major show this Saturday, taking on former titleholder Patrick Teixeira in a 10-round bout.
While Zayas can no longer be considered a mere prospect, the young fighter has yet to secure a marquee win over an established, top-tier opponent. This presents both an opportunity and a challenge as he navigates the treacherous waters of the junior middleweight division, where the current champions – Sebastian Fundora (26), Israil Madrimov (29), and Bakhram Murtazaliev (31) – all boast significantly more experience facing hardened veterans.
Watching Zayas’ progression with keen interest is Puerto Rican legend and former two-division champion Ivan Calderon, who will be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2024. Calderon, who also hails from the San Juan area and fought several high-profile bouts at Madison Square Garden, can empathize with the unique pressures and temptations Zayas may face as he ascends to the upper echelons of the sport.
“You’re doing a good job,” Calderon advised Zayas. “It’s not time for world champion. It’s time for world challenger, because you’re still growing. You’re getting to it. But right now, you’re still a kid. At your weight – 154 – it’s gonna be hard, because you’re going to have big guys, experienced guys.”
Calderon’s words of caution reflect the delicate balance between Zayas’ undeniable talent and the need for measured development, especially as the young boxer prepares to headline a high-profile event during Puerto Rican Day Parade weekend at the hallowed Madison Square Garden.
As Zayas navigates this pivotal moment in his career, the legacy of Puerto Rican boxing greats like Calderon looms large. The former champion recognizes Zayas’ potential to become a “money boy” and a true star, but cautions that the true test will be whether the young fighter can maintain his humility and discipline as he reaches the pinnacle of the sport.
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