Prime Time Promotions Set for October 3 Debut at Manuel Lujan Building

Prime Time Promotions, headed by longtime New Mexico boxing enthusiast Jerry Padilla Jr., will make its promotional debut October 3 at the Manuel Lujan Building in Albuquerque.

The inaugural event will be headlined by undefeated Albuquerque’s Matthew Griego, who owns a 15-0 professional record and will return to the ring for the first time in two years. Griego will face the always-tough and experienced Wilner Soto, who brings a 24-24 professional record.

Soto’s extensive experience gives Griego an opportunity to shake off the rust after two years away from the ring and get back into the rhythm of professional boxing.

The card will also feature unbeaten prospects Caleb Medina, who enters with a 1-0 record, along with Jorge Villarruel, who is 4-0, and Aiseah Coleman.

Coleman 4-0, will take on the always-tough Bryant McClain in what promises to be a competitive matchup.

Padilla Jr. will also have an experienced boxing figure in his corner as he builds the new promotion. Richard Espinosa, who previously worked with the New Mexico Athletic Commission, is serving as a volunteer advisor to Padilla and Prime Time Promotions.

Espinosa’s experience in New Mexico boxing will be valuable as the promotion works to put together a quality event and deliver a strong show for boxing fans throughout the state.

Padilla says his motivation for getting into promotion goes beyond simply putting on boxing events. His goal is to help create opportunities for New Mexico fighters to continue moving forward in their careers.

“I always wanted to be a part of boxing, and I wanted to help give an avenue for all local fighters to get to the next level,” Padilla said. “If we can all work together to help the fighters, hopefully New Mexico can turn out another champion.”

Padilla also wants Prime Time Promotions to be known for matching its fighters with opponents who will challenge them and help them grow.

“I want to put on a good event,” Padilla said. “I want the fighters to take chances and fight better opponents each time out. Sometimes in boxing things happen and you have to get a fighter at the last minute. We understand that, but we do want to make sure that the fighters improve every fight out. That’s the only way they’re going to get better.”

Padilla’s appreciation for New Mexico boxing extends beyond his own promotion. He says he enjoys following the state’s established fighters and watching them compete.

“I really like the New Mexico fighters,” Padilla said. “I enjoy watching guys like Abraham Perez, Josh Torres, Christian Cabral and Clinton Chavez. I enjoy watching those fights and watching those fighters. There’s a lot of talent here, and I want to be part of helping New Mexico boxing continue to grow.”

For Padilla Jr. and Prime Time Promotions, the October 3 event marks the beginning of an effort to become a major force in New Mexico boxing while providing local fighters with opportunities to develop in front of hometown fans.

With Griego’s highly anticipated return, a lineup featuring unbeaten fighters and experienced boxing people working behind the scenes, Prime Time Promotions is looking to make a strong first impression when the bell rings October 3 at the Manuel Lujan Building.