Perez defends his WBA world lightweight championship when he meets Anthony Crolla (29-4-2, 11 KOs) in Crolla’s hometown of Manchester, England, on Saturday, July 18. Perez, who is from Colombia, is co-promoted by Thompson Boxing Promotions and Gary Shaw Productions.
Perez is no stranger to the Doubletree Ontario. He recorded two knockout wins at this venue – one in 2011 and the other in 2012.
“These shows are just like I remember them,” said the 31-year-old Perez. “Always exciting, lots of energy, and filled with knowledgeable boxing fans. It felt good to come back as a fan and not worry about anything else.”
Perez has been training in Los Angeles under the guidance of trainer Danny Zamora. Perez became the interim champion last June when he defeated Argenis Lopez. He followed up that win with two successful title defenses, the most recent coming in January against Jonathan Maicelo.
With WBA belt holder Richar Abril not able to fight, Perez now holds the full title, while Abril is the champion in recess.
“Darleys was built for this opportunity,” said Ken Thompson, president of Thompson Boxing. “He has world championship talent, and in a few weeks, he’ll show the boxing community that he’s the guy to beat in the lightweight division.”
“Darelys is as talented as they come,” said Gary Shaw, president of Gary Shaw Productions. “He’s ready to take the next step in his career, and that’s to become a mainstay in the lightweight division.”
For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com.
