VERGIL ORTIZ, the rising American star that is putting fear in the welterweight division, is VERGIL ORTIZ.
Since his 2016 debut, the Texan quickly rose through the ranks and won every 18 of his fights within the distance.
British fans will be able to experience Ortiz's fierce fists live on DAZN on March 19, if they aren't already familiar.
He will face unbeaten Michael McKinson (27), in California. Portsmouth's stylish southpaw is the latest challenger, looking to end the brutal run of KOs.
SunSport spoke with Ortiz, 23 years old, about his fight: "It is a fight I need to win, I need one of those fights which's difficult."
"Not all fights are going to be war, but I believe that this fight is something I need for my experiences.
"I want to improve after every fight."
Ortiz is one of the most powerful punchers in the sport at the moment, but he admitted that there is no secret to his explosive power.
Free Bets: Get more than PS2,000 in NEW CUSTOMER DEALSHe stated, "I just try to throw my punches accurate and with meaning. That's it."
"I don’t look for it at any time, but if I happen to stun or hurt someone, then I’ll try to find ways to end them off."
"But I try to get some punches in, some combinations in, and get hit myself.
Ortiz's undefeated record and heavy-hands leave little room for opponents to confront him. This is a problem that he acknowledges and accepts.
He stated that he wouldn't have said "avoided" - perhaps I'm taking too much risk for little reward. They have a belt and I don't have one.
"There are a lot of things that could be in play and what could happen."
Ortiz is aware that a shot at the world title would not be granted, but earned. He is currently ranked No1 at the WBC/WBO.
He is now the No1 contender to win belts from Terence Crawford (34), and Errol Spence Jr (31).
If Ortiz was to face one of the pound for pound stars, he would have done it "the hard way".
He said, "It feels as if you've earned"
"If I had to pick between the most difficult division of boxing, which is likely 147, then I would choose it.
"What's the use of winning a world title in an easy division?" It doesn't matter what it means.
Ortiz is surrounded with several hot prospects who are equally talented in the ring and building buzz on social media.
Vergil Sr. trained the no-nonsense welterweight. His hands will do all the talking.
Ortiz stated that "If I want to make a name, I'd prefer it through boxing and fights."
"Some people post videos online and all that. If I'm going be a big name it's because I do what I do inside the ring.
WBO welterweight champion Terence Crawford
