Top Rank Sign Exciting Unbeaten Welterweight Prospect to Long-Term Promotional Contract

Top Rank Boxing have announced the signing of the unbeaten welterweight prospect Art Barrera Jr. ((5-0, 4 KOs) to a long-term promotional deal. The 18-year-old Californian fighter will return to the ring on July 13 on the Janibek Alimkhanuly–Andrei Mikhailovich undercard against Javier Mayoral (6-5-1, 1 KO). The entire card will take place at the Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas and be streamed on ESPN+. Barrera, his trainer Robert Garcia and Top Rank chairman Bob Arum have spoken on the new deal, via a promotional press release.

Top Rank Announce Art Barrera Jr. Signing

Bob Arum, Barrera and Robert Garcia React to Deal

18-year-old rising star Barrera is the latest prospect to emerge from the Robert Garcia Boxing Academy and this deal with Top Rank gives the teenager a great platform to progress and rise through the welterweight rankings.

Since his second-round stoppage win against Raymundo Rios Cardiel in August 2023, the youngster has impressed with his boxing skills and KO power. 2024 has been a great year for the Long Beach native, racking up three wins, including a dominant points win over Levy Garcia Benitez last time out.

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Bob Arum has spoken with excitement regarding the youngster signing: “Art is an elite talent with an incredible team. He has all the makings of a superstar.”

Arum continued: “He’s shown his prodigious talent on three Top Rank cards this year, and I can’t wait to see him back in action July 13 in Las Vegas.”

Barrera Excited to Move to the Next Level

Barrera said: “I’m excited to officially join the Top Rank stable. All my hard work is paying off. As a professional, I’ve showcased my skills on three Top Rank shows and dominated each time. They’ve seen what I’m capable of, and I’m grateful for their trust. I’m ready to take my career to the next level.”

Robert Garcia, Barrera’s trainer and manager waxed lyrical about the youngster’s ability and future prospects: “Art Barrera Jr is one of the best young prospects I have had in recent memory.”

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He continued: “Great speed, timing, and power. At the young age of 18, he has already had the chance to spar and learn from some of the best fighters in the world, including Vergil Ortiz Jr., Brandun Lee, Lindolfo Delgado, Jose Ramirez, Jose“El Rayo” Valenzuela, and many more. Art has a very bright future, and with the help of Top Rank, I believe we have a future star in the sport of boxing.”