LOS ANGELES, April 5 – Ever since he first broke onto the world boxing scene after representing his native Mexico in the 2000 Olympics, junior welterweight Francisco Bojado was destined for stardom. Charismatic, powerful and possessing the skills only seen once a decade, Francisco “Panchito” Bojado took out everyone in his path as he raced up the boxing ranks, only to have two disappointing losses derail his progress..
But now, after close to three years away from the ring, the 23-year-old prodigy is back, and Golden Boy Promotions is pleased to announce the signing of Bojado to a promotional deal which will commence with his return on Friday May 4th in Las Vegas, Nevada.
“Francisco Bojado is a fighter I have known for many years and I’ve watched his progress very closely,” said Golden Boy Promotions President Oscar De La Hoya from his training camp in Puerto Rico. “He has had some setbacks, but I’ve talked to him, I’ve watched him get back in fighting shape, and the boxing world needs to get ready for his return because he’s not taking any prisoners this time around. His only goal right now is to win a world championship, and we’re looking forward to bringing him there.”
“It’s been a long time, and I’ve got the hunger back for the sport,” said Bojado. “I’ve worked very hard to get back to this point and I’m pleased to be part of the Golden Boy team, a team that I know will get me to where I need to be because I’m going to fulfill my end of the bargain by working hard and winning fights. It’s good to be back.”
Bojado (16-2, 11 KOs) is a native of Guadalajara who grew up in Los Angeles, California. After a stellar amateur career, Bojado turned pro at the age of 17 on January 13, 2001, with a second round TKO of Detrick Castor. He won his first nine fights, all by knockout, before an upset decision loss to Juan Carlos Rubio in February of 2002. Bojado responded to his first setback by winning his next seven fights, including a near-shutout decision victory over Rubio in their rematch to win the WBC Continental Americas and IBA Continental junior welterweight titles. Bojado’s progress was halted by a split decision loss to former world champion Jesse James Leija in July of 2004, but after taking time off to re-evaluate his career and refocus, “Panchito” is ready to resume one of the most promising boxing careers in recent history.
Bojado will face the Colombian fighter, Dairo Esalas, on the May 4th “Fiesta Boxeo” undercard at the MGM Grand Ballroom live on Telefutura.