Saturday, October 12, 2024  |

News

Blue chip prospects Blazen Rocili and Terry Washington set to see action on Sept. 21

Blazen Rocili - Photo courtesy of CBN Promotions
Fighters Network
06
Sep

An unbeaten prospect and an amateur standout making his pro debut will fight on September 21, CBN Promotions announced Thursday.

Middleweight Blazen Rocili, who is of Filipino descent, and junior bantamweight Terry Washington will fight in separate bouts, against fighters to be determined, at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California.

Both four-round fights will be part of the CBN Promotions card that will stream live across multiple platforms, including Fubo Sports, Fox Deportes, Stadium, Gray TV (9:30 p.m. ET/ 6:30 p.m. PT), and on tape delay through Estrella TV.

“The Filipino community in Los Angeles should absolutely come out to see this kid fight,” said Alex Camponovo, who is the President of CBN Promotions. “It’s rare to see a Filipino boxer of Blazen’s size, and he’s an absolute talent. He’s someone you don’t want to miss.



Terry Washington – Photo courtesy of CBN Promotions

“‘Terrible’ Terry Washington is (also) a special talent, and we’re excited to have him make his professional debut with us. His accomplishments speak for themselves, and we believe he’s going to be a name everyone will remember in the sport for years to come.”

Rocili (6-0, 5 knockouts), who resides in Waipahu, Hawaii, last fought on April 20 of last year, stopping Zamir Young in the third round. In his previous fight in April 2022, Rocili defeated Matt Perez by majority decision.

The 22-year-old will be fighting for the first time in Southern California, where a large number of Filipino-Americans reside. Rocili hopes to make up for lost time over the last several months, eager to showcase his talents and assert himself in the middleweight division.

“I’ve been itching to get back in the ring,” said Rocili, who looks to follow in the footsteps of his favorite fighter, Filipino great Manny Pacquiao. “After a long layoff, I feel stronger, more focused, and ready to show everyone the improvements I’ve made. I’m determined to carry the torch for Filipino boxing. Following in the footsteps of legends like Manny Pacquiao is a dream, and I believe I have what it takes to be the next big star. This fight will be worth the wait.”

“Fighting in California, especially for the first time, is an honor. I want to personally invite all my Filipino brothers and sisters to come out and support. Having the Filipino community behind me means everything. I’m excited to perform in front of a new crowd and I plan to make them proud. A win here will push me closer to where I need to be. It’s just the beginning of a long journey, and every victory brings me one step closer to my ultimate goal.”

Rocili is trained by Richard Barrientes and managed by Andrew Bocanegra, who is the President of Boxing VIP.

Washington, who lives and trains in the Southern California section of the Inland Empire, was a 2024 Olympic Trial champion, who was awarded the ‘Most Outstanding Boxer’ at the Olympic Trials. He also captured a gold medal at the 2024 World Invitational International.

After a successful amateur career, Washington hopes to make a name for himself as a prizefighter.

“Fighting on a CBN Promotions card, especially one that’s televised, is an incredible opportunity,” said Washington. “I’m grateful for the platform to showcase my skills to a wider audience right from the start of my career. My ultimate goal is to become a world champion, and this is a first step. I’m ready to put in the work and do whatever it takes to reach the top.”

“Terry is the real deal, and anyone who comes to see him fight on September 21 is in for a treat,” said Ian Franklin, who trains and manages Washington. “He’s got the skills, the power, and the drive to go all the way in this sport. This kid has been destined for greatness from day one. It’s his time to shine.”

 

Francisco A. Salazar has written for The Ring since October 2013 and has covered boxing in Southern California and abroad since 2000. Francisco also covers boxing for the Ventura County (California) Star newspaper. He can be reached at [email protected]