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Undefeated super flyweight John "Scrappy" Ramirez left an indelible mark on the World Boxing Association (WBA) scene. Having patiently awaited a World Title eliminator for over 10 months, Ramirez showcased his prowess by demolishing Panamanian opponent Ronal Batista (15-3, 9 KOs), delivering two knockdowns that concluded the bout in the fourth and final round.
Ranked No. 2 at the time, Ramirez's convincing victory automatically elevated him to the No. 1 spot and earned him the mandatory challenger position for the WBA super flyweight world champion, Kazuto Ioka (30-2-1, 15 KOs) of Japan. Ioka, who dethroned Joshua Franco in June, was slated to face Juan Francisco Estrada in a highly anticipated title unification match on New Year's Eve. However, negotiations faltered, leading to Ioka now defending his title against Josber Perez (20-3, 18 KOs) of Venezuela.
Undeterred by the shift in Ioka's opponent, Ramirez remains focused and unwavering in his pursuit of the world title.
"Nothing is promised in this business, so I'm not sitting around waiting," said the 27-year-old Ramirez. "I continue working hard because I believe in me and my team. If this fight (vs. Ioka) isn't happening right away, my team will get me in a good fight. I've got to move on."
The prospect of facing Ioka, a seasoned champion, doesn't intimidate Ramirez. "I'll fight him in Japan, on the moon... anywhere he wants. I am ready now; it's Scrapp Time! My time will come."
Despite the setback in the anticipated Ioka-Estrada matchup, Ramirez's dedication to his craft remains evident. Training alongside the likes of Regis Prograis (29-2, 24 KOs), who recently defended his title against Devin Haney, Ramirez continues to refine his skills and gain invaluable experience.
"I worked with Regis, who was getting ready for his fight with Haney," Ramirez shared. "That's what I've been doing, going to different training camps when I'm free. Doing what I do keeps it fun for me and I keep learning."
As the boxing world eagerly awaits Ramirez's next move, the super flyweight contender is determined to seize his opportunity and make a lasting mark in the division.