Richard Torrez returns to action tonight when he boxes Isaac Gutierrez in Phoenix on the undercard of Emanuel Navarrete’s rematch with Oscar Valdez.
The American heavyweight prospect, an Olympic silver medalist, has excelled as a professional so far building an impeccable record that is starting to receive widespread attention.
In a year that has saw American heavyweights endure tough moments on the big stage, most notably high-profile losses to Deontay Wilder and Jared Anderson, could Torrez be the fighter to pick up the pieces and restore his nation’s credibility amongst boxing’s big men?
After losing the 2020 Olympic final to Bakhodir Jalolov, Torrez has rebounded impressively and 2025 is set to be a huge year for the Californian star.
In an attempt to prepare as diligently for the biggest threats that exist at heavyweight, Torrez is always eager to learn more when developing and that could include a trip to Britain.
As it stands, numerous English operators including Tyson Fury, Daniel Dubois, and Anthony Joshua occupy top spots at the business end of Torrez’s weight category, and Torrez is well aware of the momentum being held across the Atlantic from his Amercian base.
“I’m fighting for America, but the U.K. guys are making it kinda hard,” said a jovial Torrez when speaking to DAZN ahead of his next fight.
“I genuinely think that boxing is at its best when there’s an Amercian heavyweight who people here can cheer for and hang their hat on.
“I definitely think that my ability is there. I’m an Olympic silver medalist and I’m very confident in my abilities. I’m very excited to show the world what I have to offer."
If next year is the time when Torrez breaks out, then arming himself with the best experience available will be crucial when aiding his improvement.
Torrez is a huge admirer of Fury, and he’d have no issue venturing out of his comfort zone to enjoy, or endure, vital training time with the former world champion who’s aiming to win back his world titles against Oleksandr Usyk on December 21, live on DAZN .
“There’s been a couple of times I could've gone to Saudi, but I’ve had a fight coming up. I would really love to get that work with Fury.
“I would love to be able to work with some of the big guys. Dubois has tried to reach out as well. It’s like anyone who’s about to fight Usyk wants me in their camp because I’m a small lefty.
“I hope there’s more opportunities in the future, but it’s just nice that the top heavyweights know my name. The guys at the top echelon know who I am and that’s so cool.”
