Top Rank Signs Rising Female Star Dubbed ‘A World Champion in the Making’

Top Rank boxing continues to strengthen its stable, signing some of the best talents in world boxing, with Emmanuel Chance, Rohan Polanco, and Yan Santana joining the promotional giant. On March 27, they announced their latest recruit, with 19-year-old super flyweight prospect Perla Bazaldua (1-0, 1 KO) signing a long-term promotional contract.

Perla Bazaldua Joins Top Rank for Next Pro Chapter

Perla Bazaldua Set for Top Rank Debut on May 10

Bazaldua enjoyed an impressive amateur career, becoming a 15-time national amateur champion. The talented 19-year-old will aim to progress in the professional ranks and emulate female greats such as Mikaela Mayer and Seniesa Estrada.

The LA native will make her Top Rank debut in a four-round bout on the undercard of Emanuel Navarrete vs Charly Suarez in San Diego. The talented super flyweight prospect is in safe hands, being co-managed by George Ruiz and the renowned Manny Robles who will also be her trainer.

Bazaldua, Bob Arum and Ruiz React to Perla Bazaldua Deal

Perla won a gold medal at the 2023 Youth Brandenburg Cup in Germany and has acted as the sparring partner for Siniesa Estrada, who retired as the undefeated, undisputed minimumweight world champion. Speaking about her new promotional deal, Bazaldua said: “I’m honored to be part of the Top Rank family, and I can’t wait to get started.”

“I want to inspire young women, especially where I come from in South Central Los Angeles. I want to show young women that if you stay disciplined and true to yourself, dreams do come true.”

Bob Arum also revealed his thoughts on his latest signing: “George and Manny have an excellent eye for talent, and I look forward to working with them to develop Perla into a world champion and a superstar in the sport,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum.

George Ruiz shared his views on the talents of Perla: “Perla is special. Only 19, she has ring smarts far beyond her years and a work ethic that signals a world champion in the making,” Ruiz said. “When she decided to turn pro, I was honored that she chose Manny and me to manage her. She’s only the third woman ever signed by Top Rank, so Bob Arum and Todd duBoef see what Manny and I saw in her. I’m proud to represent her alongside the best women in boxing, Mikaela Mayer and Ginny Fuchs.”

Manny Robles Excited for the Future

Perla Bazaldua started her professional career with an eye-catching first-round stoppage win against Mollie Backowski. Her co-manager and trainer Robles has spoken on the talented 19-year-old and her ability to be great: “It’s been a long time coming. I’m thrilled and excited for Perla, but I know this is the beginning of something great. Her commitment to the sport is like no one else, and I’m certain she will take women’s boxing to another level, just like Mikaela Mayer. She has some big shoes to fill with the world’s best boxing promotional company, Top Rank!”