Jorge Guero Villarruel ready to make jump to pro ranks

Amateur star Jorge Villarruel, known as "Guero," is set to make his professional debut this Saturday on the Holmes Promotions card at the Ohkay Casino, near Santa Fe.

Nineteen-year-old Guero was eager to turn professional, but his team, led by his father George, wasn't quite ready for that step.

George stated, "I wanted him to spend another year in the amateurs; it wouldn't hurt to continue and learn. Guero has a pro style, which is the opposite of how the USA boxing rules work with the points system."

Guero, with more than 100 fights to his name, was hesitant to remain an amateur. However, after his last fight, he informed his father that he was ready to go professional and leave the amateur scene behind.

Together with George, trainer Donald Sanchez, and Strength Coach Leroy Bazan, they held a meeting and decided it was time to advance to the next level.

While Guero will be making his debut fight in New Mexico, his team is determined to ensure he competes in various locations. The Villarruel family has deep connections in northern California.

"We want to ensure he is seen everywhere. We love New Mexico, but it's important to fight in other cities to reach the next level," George stated.

Guero will be facing Cruz Reyes from Texas, who is also making his professional debut. The two have fought each other before, with Guero emerging victorious. However, they understand that times change and fighters can improve.

"I'm prepared for anything. We know each other, and we can both adapt from our previous meeting," says Guero.

In an era when most local fighters compete only in New Mexico, which can be somewhat challenging, there are not many events due to the presence of Legacy Promotion, Hard Knocks, and now the return of Holmes Boxing.

"I want to fight 3-4 times a year, like my father stated we will go where we an get fights and stay busy."

Guero, who began boxing at the age of 8, enjoys watching Lightweight star Teofimo Lopez and compares his own style to that of Lopez."

I enjoy watching Lopez and try to emulate his style; I like the way he fights. I am looking forward to Saturday and from there keep going."

The fight card is sold out, but you may get real time results on Boxingnewmexico.com