Number One Area Fighter Joseph Diaz Going for his National Championship
By Big George Hernandez
With the area filled with outstanding football players like Aaron Cantu and Matt Fregoso and basketball stars like Erick Martinez and Jordan Young, the area also has its share of big time amateur fighters (MMA, boxing, Muay Thai).
1. Joseph Diaz (South El Monte Boxing Club): Diaz, a South El Monte alum, has not only made a name for himself on the main stream but also nationally by winning the Nationals at his weight. If Jo-Jo wanted to he could go pro right now.
2. Chris Fajardo (Ring of Fire): With only one loss on his record Fajardo is ready to get back on track after his win in Reno, Nevada.
3. Israel Flores (Team Florez): Still hasn’t tasted defeat, this Mountain View alum will be fighting Feb. 12 in the opening round of the IFS Muay Thai championship tournament. Izzy is also 2-0 in MMA.
4. Anthony Hernandez (Fight Academy): Hernandez a South Hills alum, will be fighting Jan 29 at the Fight Academy’s “Proving Ground 4” as he tries to stay undefeated.
5. Max Garibay (Ring of Fire): A raw talent in the MMA world, Garibay has yet to get an L on his record.
6. Beto Rodriguez (Team Florez): Rodriguez a participant in the IFS: MMA Tournament; is also a top Muay Thai contender.
7. Mayra Manzo (South El Monte Boxing Club): The only girl on the list, Manzo has proven she’s got what it takes after winning the Desert Showdown with her power and speed.
8. Xavier Montelongo (Solid Rock Boxing): Montelongo, a Schurr alum, is a National champion that is looking forward to the Olympics and a bright pro career.
9. Edward Chavez (Submission Factory): One of the most experienced on the list, Chavez could be looking to go pro very soon.
10. Jacob Torres (Jerry Ortiz Boxing): Will be fighting in Missouri for the silver gloves, current Charter Oak student Torres is one of many rising stars at the Ortiz gym.
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