By Robert Coster
WBA #2 Super-Flyweight contender Norberto “Meneito” Jimenez returns to the ring on June 23 in Santo Domingo, a prelude to challenging for the world title at a later date this year. The colorful Jimenez (28-8-4, 16 KOs), a favorite of Dominican boxing fans, will be facing Renson Robles (12-3, 6 KOs) of Venezuela. “Meneito,” unbeaten in the last 7 years, previously faced the rugged Robles in 2016, winning a decision over the visitor.
In another bout, Dominican Olympian and hot prospect William Encarnacion (16-0, 14 KOs) will risk his unbeaten record against fellow Dominican Eliecer Aquino (19-2-1, 13 KOs) for the vacant WBC Latin bantamweight title in an intriguing clash that has local fans buzzing. Aquino – who has fought in the United States – has battled boxers with higher credentials than Encarnacion.
Other bouts on the card: jr welterweight prospect Yomar Medina (20-0,17 KOs) will raise his level of opposition against Mario Beltre (17-4,12 KOs); Julio De Jesus (26-1,24KOs) vs Francisco Aguero (13-3,10KOs) a rematch in the jr welterweight class; Ramfis Encarnacion (13-0,10KOs) vs Kelvin Figaro (9-3,4KOs), super-bantamweights.
Promoter is Shuan Boxing Promotion
Venue: Club El Million, Santo Domingo