Gilberto Ramírez

In April 2010, Ramírez beat veteran Jesus Ayala by second-round knockout (KO) in Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico.{{cite web|url=http://boxrec.com/show_display.php?show_id=599833|title=BoxRec Boxing Records|date=2010-04-30|publisher=Boxrec.com|accessdate=2010-06-06}}

On 17 December 2010, Ramírez knocked out the undefeated Rogelio Medina to win the vacant WBC Youth middleweight title. The bout was held at the Gimnasio German Evers in Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico.{{Cite web|url=http://www.oem.com.mx/esto/notas/n1895333.htm|title=Organización Editorial Mexicana}}{{Cite web |url=http://www.boxnoticias.net/noticiaImprimible.php?p=20500 |title=De Alarido: "Zurdo" Ram?Rez Noque? En 6 al "Porky" Medina; Es Monarca Juvenil CMB |access-date=20 December 2010 |archive-date=23 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110723031956/http://www.boxnoticias.net/noticiaImprimible.php?p=20500 |url-status=dead }} Starting from 2011, Ramírez moved up to super-middleweight. In his first fight of the year, Ramírez fought 32 year old Antonio Arras and knocked him out via technical knockout (TKO) in round eight. Ramírez next stopped Francisco Villanueva in seven rounds. In July 2011, Ramírez moved back down middleweight to defend his WBC Youth title. He successfully defended the title beating Oney Valdez, Amilcar Edgardo Funes Melian and Samuel Miller all inside the distance. Ramírez went ten rounds with Jaime Barboza (17–6, 8 KOs). Ramírez won via unanimous decision (100–90, 100–91, 97–93).{{Cite web|url=http://boxrec.com/bout/1680904|title=BoxRec - Gilberto Ramirez v Jaime Barboza|website=boxrec.com|access-date=2016-06-01}} Ramírez next fought at super middleweight against Isaac Mendez, winning via TKO in round eight. Ramírez then went down to middleweight successfully defending the WBC Youth title a final two times against Richard Gutierrez, who Ramírez beat on all scorecards (100–90) and Marcus Upshaw, also winning via ten-round unanimous decision (98–92, 99–90 twice).{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/ramirez-handles-upshaw-periban-barely-tops-sierra--59472|title=Ramirez Handles Upshaw; Periban Barely Tops Sierra|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} According to sources in February 2013, Ramírez was on the verge of signing with promotional company Top Rank. This was later revealed to be true.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-sanchez-reportedly-heading-top-rank--62389|title=Gilberto Ramirez Sanchez Reportedly Heading To Top Rank|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/photos-gilberto-ramirez-inks-his-top-rank-contract--62506|title=Photos: Gilberto Ramirez Inks His Top Rank Contract|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}}

Ramírez fought in the United States for the first time in his career on 24 August 2013 at the Civic Auditorium, Glendale, California. His opponent was American Derrick Findley in a scheduled ten-round bout which went the distance. Ramírez won on all three scorecards (100–90 x3).{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-shuts-out-derrick-findley-over-ten--68968|title=Gilberto Ramirez Shuts Out Derrick Findley Over Ten|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} In February 2014, Ramírez defeated Don Mouton at the Laredo Energy Arena, Laredo, Texas.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-face-don-mouton-on-february-1--72825|title=Gilberto Ramirez To Face Don Mouton on February 1|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} 35 year old Mouton, who had not been stopped in 20 previous professional bouts, was knocked out in round one.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-destroys-mouton-blink-an-eye--74265|title=Gilberto Ramirez Destroys Mouton In Blink Of An Eye|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} Two months later, Ramírez fought at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino against his most credible opponent to date, 33 year old Giovanni Lorenzo (33–6, 25 KOs).{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-giovanni-lorenzo-4-11-on-espn-fnf--75663|title=Gilberto Ramirez-Giovanni Lorenzo, 4/11 on ESPN FNF|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} Lorenzo was knocked down in round one, and twice in the fifth. Ramírez claiming the win via TKO and winning the vacant NABF super middleweight title and vacant WBO NABO super middleweight title. Ramírez averaged 30 landed punches per round.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-jesse-hart-salazar-win-mandalay--76613|title=Gilberto Ramirez, Jesse Hart, Salazar Win at Mandalay|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/compubox-ramirez-averages-97-thrown-per-round--76692|title=CompuBox: Ramirez Averages 97 Thrown Per Round|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}}

Ramírez had a one off fight in Macau on the undercard of Rigondeaux-Kokietgym title fight.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-likely-faces-talipeau-macau-on-7-19--78611|title=Gilberto Ramirez Likely Faces Talipeau in Macau on 7/19|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} He defeated Junior Talipeau (20–2–1, 7 KOs) via first-round TKO, after knocking him down three times, in the process winning the vacant WBO Inter-Continental super middleweight title.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/rigondeauxs-ko-sparks-debate-shiming-wins-decision--80099|title=Rigondeaux's KO Sparks Debate, Shiming Wins Decision|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} Ramírez was back in US in November 2014 at the Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas, this time beating Fulgencio Zúñiga via eighth-round TKO to retain the titles.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-back-action-on-november-15th--82428|title=Gilberto Ramirez Back in Action on November 15th|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-faces-fulgencio-zuniga-11-15-on-hbol--82945|title=Gilberto Ramirez Faces Fulgencio Zuniga, 11/15 on HBOL|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} Zuniga's glove touched the canvas in round six, but the referee did not credit Ramírez with the knockdown. In round eight, Ramírez unleashed a barrage of punches which were unanswered, convincing the referee to stop the fight.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-blasts-zuniga-oscar-valdez-wins--84300|title=Gilberto Ramirez Blasts Zuniga: Oscar Valdez Wins|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} Ramírez had an 80% knockout ratio after this fight, and it would be the last time he won inside the distance until seven fights later on 3 February 2017.

On 18 December 2014 Top Rank matchmaker Brad Goodman announced that Ramírez would take on his toughest challenge to date on the undercard of Alvarado-Rios at the 1st Bank Center in Broomfield, Colorado, against Russian boxer Maxim Vlasov (30–1, 15 KOs) on 24 January 2015.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-faces-maxim-vlasov-on-rios-alvarado--85478|title=Gilberto Ramirez Faces Maxim Vlasov on Rios-Alvarado|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} The bout was set for a catchweight of 171 pounds and would mark the first time Ramírez fought on HBO.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/ramirez-vlasov-catchweight-171-pounds--85522|title=Ramirez-Vlasov Will Be at Catchweight of 171-Pounds|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} Ramírez defeated Vlasov in a closely contested ten round bout (96–94 & 97–93 twice). Ramírez landed 179 of 631 punches thrown (28%) and Vlasov landed 115 of his 411 thrown (28%).{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/forums/view.php?pg=ramirez-vlasov-compubox|title=Ramirez vs. Vlasov - CompuBox|website=www.boxingscene.com|language=en|access-date=2018-02-04}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/12223563/gilberto-ramirez-wins-unanimous-decision-maxim-vlasov|title=Ramirez wins unanimous decision over Vlasov|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-02-04}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2015/1/24/7886331/gilberto-ramirez-notches-decision-win-over-maxim-vlasov|title=Ramirez stays unbeaten with win over Vlasov|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2018-02-04}}

On 18 April, it was announced that Ramírez would return to the ring on 12 June against 35 year old Derek Edwards (27–4–1, 14 KOs) on TruTV.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-dereck-edwards-june-12-on-trutv--89922|title=Gilberto Ramirez-Dereck Edwards, June 12 on TruTV|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-05|language=en-us}} It was pushed back two weeks to take place on 26 June instead.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-dereck-edwards-june-26-on-trutv--90671|title=Gilberto Ramirez-Dereck Edwards, June 26 on TruTV|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-05|language=en-us}} The fight took place at the State Farm Arena in Hidalgo, Texas, as Ramírez defeated Edwards via a ten-round decision. Ramírez won every round on all three judges' scorecards. Ramírez was the quicker boxer and used his reach advantage to box on the outside. Although there was exchanges throughout the fight, Ramírez was getting the better of them, landing the harder shots. Edwards' trainer Jeff Mayweather advised him to get closer and work on the inside, but he was unable to do so due to the reach and size advantage of Ramírez. The referee nearly stopped the fight before round eight ended when Edwards appeared hurt, but he managed to recover and make it to the end of the round. With the win, Ramírez moved closer to a potential world title fight after being ranked in the top 3 by the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-dominates-magdaleno-stops-gonzalez--92842|title=Gilberto Ramirez Dominates, Magdaleno Stops Gonzalez|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-05|language=en-us}}

On 12 September, another edition of Top Rank's Metro PCS Friday Night Knockout series on TruTV was announced with Ramírez appearing on the undercard on 20 November.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/rodriguez-vs-najera-set-11-20-trutv-vegas-show--95714|title=Rodriguez vs. Najera Set for 11/20 truTV Vegas Show|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-05|language=en-us}} His opponent was later announced as 27 year old Dutch boxer Gevorg Khatchikian (23–1, 11 KOs) for a scheduled ten round fight at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Chelsea Ballroom, Las Vegas.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2015/10/gilberto-ramirez-vs-gevorg-khatchikian-on-november-20th/|title=Gilberto Ramirez vs. Gevorg Khatchikian on November 20th » Boxing News|date=2015-10-12|work=Boxing News 24|access-date=2017-09-24|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-ready-gevorg-khatchikian-trutv--96383|title=Gilberto Ramirez Ready For Gevorg Khatchikian, TruTv|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-05|language=en-us}} Ramírez won on all scorecards (99–91 & 100–90 twice). After the fight, he said, "We came to win and that's what we did. All of the hard work and preparation paid off." With the win, Ramírez became the first boxer to successfully defend the NABF super middleweight title four times.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2015/11/gilberto-ramirez-defeats-gevorg-khatchikian-results/|title=Gilberto Ramirez defeats Gevorg Khatchikian - results » Boxing News|date=2015-11-21|work=Boxing News 24|access-date=2017-09-24|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/ramirez-shuts-down-khatchikian-preserves-title-shot--98399|title=Ramirez Shuts Down Khatchikian, Preserves Title Shot|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-05|language=en-us}}

It was announced on 18 January 2016 that #1 WBO Ramírez would be fighting WBO super middleweight champion Arthur Abraham (44–4, 29 KOs) in the co-feature bout on the 9 April undercard of the Manny Pacquiao vs. Timothy Bradley III card on HBO pay-per-view. Ramírez followed an intense training regimen in his hometown of Mazatlán before the fight.{{Cite news|last=Wilson|first=T.E|url=http://www.lapoliticaeslapolitica.com/2016/01/mexicos-hope-from-mazatlan-to-las-vegas.html|title=Mexico's hope: from Mazatlán to Las Vegas with Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez|website=Lapoliticaeslapolitica.com|access-date=2018-04-24}} The fight card took at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2016/01/arum-wrapping-arthur-abraham-vs-gilberto-ramirez-pacquiao-bradley-card/|title=Arum wrapping up Arthur Abraham vs. Gilberto Ramirez for Pacquiao-Bradley card|date=2016-01-18|website=Boxing News 24|language=en-US|access-date=2016-06-02}} Ramírez put his name in Mexican boxing history, becoming the first fighter to win a super middleweight world title. All three judges scored the fight 120–108 for Ramírez, who also became only the second Mexican to win a world title in a division heavier than middleweight, the first one having been Julio César González as the WBO light heavyweight champion in 2003. Ramírez won on the punch count by outworking Abraham all night in almost very round. In the post fight interview, Ramírez said, "I took to him a Mexican boxing school. He was a very, very strong puncher, but he couldn't take any movement. I knew halfway through the fight I was going to win the fight. I came here to make history, and I did it." Ramírez improved his record to (34–0, 24 KOs).{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/15172826/gilberto-ramirez-dominates-arthur-abraham-wins-super-middleweight-title|title=Ramirez dominates Abraham, wins super middleweight title|website=ESPN.com|date=10 April 2016|access-date=2016-06-02}}

On 31 May 2016, Top Rank promoter Bob Arum announced that Ramírez would fight on the undercard of the Terence Crawford-Viktor Postol unification fight on 23 July. Ramírez (34–0, 24 KOs), of Mexico, would have been making his first title defense against Germany's 28 year old Dominik Britsch (32–2–1, 11 KOs). Britsch had won four fights in a row since an eight-round decision loss in 2014, was about to take a big step up in competition.{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/15855527/gilberto-zurdo-ramirez-oscar-valdez-fight-world-title-bouts-undercard-july|title=Ramirez, Valdez to fight on July 23 card in Vegas|website=ESPN.com|date=31 May 2016|access-date=2016-06-02}} On 6 July, Ramírez suffered a hand injury while training, which ultimately called off the world title fight.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2016/07/gilberto-ramirez-suffers-hand-injury-unable-fight-july-23/|title=Gilberto Ramirez suffers hand injury, unable to fight July 23 - Boxing News|date=2016-07-06|language=en-US|access-date=2016-07-16}} Ramírez had a successful hand surgery and according to promoter Bob Arum, he should be able to make a ring return by the end of 2016.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2016/07/gilberto-ramirezs-hand-surgery-successful/|title=Gilberto Ramirez's hand surgery successful - Boxing News|date=2016-07-21|language=en-US|access-date=2016-08-15}}

In January 2017, negotiations were taking place for a fight between Ramírez and Matt Korobov (27–1, 14 KOs) possibly on the undercard of the potential Manny Pacquiao-Jeff Horn fight in April. Bob Arum announced on 13 February 2017 that Ramírez would be making his first defence in Los Angeles, California, on April 22. It was also announced that Max Bursak (33–4–1, 15 KOs) would be the challenger.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/arum-wants-make-ramirez-korobov-pacquiao-horn-card--113161|title=Arum Wants To Make Ramirez-Korobov for Pacquiao-Horn Card - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=30 January 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-02-14}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-vs-max-bursak-play-april-22--113584|title=Gilberto Ramirez vs. Max Bursak in Play For April 22 - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=13 February 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-02-14}} Ramírez retained his WBO title in his first fight in over a year as he won every round on all three judges scorecards (120–106). Bursak tried to attack and managed to land some punches, but lacked the punching power to hurt Ramírez who used his footwork to evade any punishment. Bursak was deducted a point in round five and also in round eleven for excessive holding.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-dominates-max-bursak-retain-wbo-results--115890|title=Gilberto Ramirez Dominates Max Bursak To Retain WBO Title - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=22 April 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-04-23}}

On 19 June 2017, manager and trainer Hector Zápari announced a deal was in the works for Ramírez to defend his WBO title against mandatory challenger and WBO NABO titleholder Jesse "Hard Work" Hart (22–0, 18 KOs) with the fight possibly taking place in September 2017.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/team-gilberto-ramirez-expect-jesse-hart-bout-late-september--117698|title=Team Gilberto Ramirez Expect Jesse Hart Bout in Late September - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=19 June 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-06-21}} It was revealed the fight would take place on 22 September 2017 in Tucson, Arizona.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-expects-big-fireworks-with-jesse-hart--118354|title=Gilberto Ramirez Expects Big Fireworks With Jesse Hart - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=10 July 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-07-10}} On 22 August the fight was made official and an announcement was made for the venue. The fight was to take place at the Convention Center.{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2017/8/22/16185280/oscar-valdez-gilberto-ramirez-to-defend-titles-on-september-22nd-espn-show+&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=uk|title=Valdez, Ramirez to defend titles on 9/22 ESPN show|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2017-08-26}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/espn/now?nowId=21-40000085-4|title=The next Top Rank card on ESPN is official and it will include two world title fights in which the four combatants are a combined 108-0 with 73 KOs.|last=|first=|date=2017-08-21|website=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-08-26}} Hart stated that he wanted to win the WBO title for his father and trainer Eugene "Cyclone" Hart, a former professional boxer who fought in the Golden Ages of middleweights in the 1970s. His most famous opponent was Marvelous Marvin Hagler, which saw Hart lose via TKO. Hart never received a world title fight. Top Rank promoter Bob Arum credited Eugene Hart as being 'the hardest-punching middleweight of his time'.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/20769024/boxing-jesse-hart-hopes-win-super-middleweight-world-title-father-eugene-cyclone-hart|title=Jesse Hart hopes to win super middleweight world title for his father|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-09-23}}

In front of 4,103 fans, Ramírez retained his WBO super middleweight title in a hard-fought battle against a game Hart, which went the twelve round distance. The final judges scorecards were 115–112 twice, and 114–113 in favour of Ramírez. He started off strong, dropping Hart in round two following a left uppercut, which Hart did not see coming. Hart beat the count and survived the round. In round four, Hart took tremendous punishment, but managed to stay on his feet. The last six rounds saw the fight turnaround in favour of Hart. He landed many power shots to the head of Ramírez, who held his own. Ramírez seemed to have tired out during the closing rounds. Round eleven saw Hart rock Ramírez badly, but not realizing that his legs had given way, thus failing to go for the finish. Had Hart not been dropped in round two, the fight would have ended via majority decision.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-drops-decisions-very-game-jesse-hart--120748|title=Gilberto Ramirez Drops, Decisions a Very Game Jesse Hart - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=23 September 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-23}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.ringtv.com/518198-oscar-valdez-gilberto-ramirez-retain-titles-hard-fought-decisions/|title=Oscar Valdez, Gilberto Ramirez retain titles with hard-fought decisions - The Ring|date=2017-09-23|work=The Ring|access-date=2017-09-23|language=en-US}} After the fight, Ramírez said, "This one was for all the Dreamers, all the people of Mexico and what they are going through with the earthquake. The plan was push, push, push and put a lot of pressure on him and keep him off balance. I wanted to put on a really big body attack every round. There was nothing easy in this fight." Hart was humble in defeat, "I take nothing away from him. He's a good champ. He has my respect. The knockdown was my fault. Zurdo's a really good fighter." Ramírez landed 220 punches from 690 thrown (32%), this included 40 of his 70 power shots thrown. Hart landed 132 of his 497 thrown (27%).{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/20788447/gilberto-zurdo-ramirez-outpoints-jesse-hart-retains-super-middleweight-title|title='Zurdo' Ramirez outpoints Hart, retains super middleweight title|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-09-23}} The whole card averaged 706,000 viewers on ESPN.{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/boxing/canelo-vs-ggg-replay-averages-less-800000-viewers-linares-vs-campbell-viewership-even-worse|title=Canelo vs. GGG Replay Averages Less Than 800,000 Viewers {{!}} Fightful Boxing|website=www.fightful.com|language=en|access-date=2018-03-14}}

Top Rank's Bob Arum spoke to Boxing Scene on 24 October 2017 outlining the future for Ramírez. He stated that Ramírez would return on 3 February 2018 in the United States, then return to Mazatlán, Mexico, which would mark his first fight in his home country since April 2013 and then likely see a third fight in 2018 possibly in Australia. Arum mentioned Australia boxer Rohan Murdock (20–1, 15 KOs) as a potential opponent.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-back-on-feb-3-then-12-then-australia--121764|title=Gilberto Ramirez Back on Feb. 3, Then May 12, Then Australia? - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=24 October 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-10-25}}

On 14 November, Arum announced WBO Africa titleholder and #6 WBO ranked Habib "Wild Hurricane" Ahmed (22–0, 17 KOs) would challenge Ramírez on 3 February 2018. This would mark the first ever fight outside his native Ghana for Ahmed. The fight was scheduled to take place at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. Prior to the fight, Ahmed had won 8 of his last 9 fights via stoppage.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-vs-habib-ahmed-february-3-espn--122444|title=Gilberto Ramirez vs. Habib Ahmed Set For February 3, ESPN - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=14 November 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-11-14}} In front of 3,200 in attendance Ramírez retained his WBO title against Ahmed via a 6th round stoppage win. Ahmed used his head movement and quick feet to make Ramírez miss a lot of his power shots, but was unable to avoid being hit with body shots. At the time of stoppage, Ramírez had won every round on all three judges scorecards. Ramírez suffered a cut over his left eye in round three from a clash of heads. After the fight, Ramírez said, "I would like to fight with anybody in a unification fight. I want to fight the other champions. I am ready for anyone. I want the winner of the (WBSS) tournament. I want Bob Arum to make that fight.I want to be the best in my division." The fight was stopped at 2:31 in round 6 after an onslaught to the head and body.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/22313439/gilberto-zurdo-ramirez-defeats-habib-ahmed-tko-retain-super-middleweight-title|title='Zurdo' stops Ahmed, wants 'other champs' next|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-02-04}} Ramírez landed 123 of 406 punches thrown (30%) and Ahmed landed only 22 of his 190 (12%). Ahmed never landed more than 7 punches in any round, landing only 1 punch in round four. This was the first time in seven fights, dating back to November 2014, since Ramírez last stopped an opponent.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/compubox-gilberto-ramirez-habib-ahmed-punch-stats--124945|title=CompuBox: Ramirez Gave Absolute Beating, Landed 123 To 22|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-easily-demolishes-habib-ahmed-six-results--124937|title=Gilberto Ramirez Easily Demolishes Habib Ahmed in Six Rounds|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-04|language=en-us}} The card averaged 741,000 viewers on ESPN.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/top-ranks-espn-show-averaged-741000-viewers-saturday-night--125012|title=Top Rank's ESPN Show Averaged 741,000 Viewers Saturday Night|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-03-14|language=en-us}}

On 30 April 2018 ESPN's Dan Rafael reported that a deal close to being completed for Ramírez to make a fourth defence against 34-year-old Colombian boxer Roamer Alexis Angulo (23–0, 20 KO) on 30 June at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City. At the time, Angulo was ranked #10 by the WBO. The card would also include light welterweight prospect Alex Saucedo (27–0, 17 KO) taking on veteran boxer Lenny Zappavigna (37–3, 27 KO).{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2018/4/30/17304428/gilberto-ramirez-to-face-roamer-alexis-angulo-on-june-30th+&cd=2&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=uk|title=Gilberto Ramirez to face Roamer Alexis Angulo on 6/30|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2018-05-02}} A day later, the bout was confirmed by Top Rank and would air live on ESPN.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-vs-roamer-alexis-angulo-finalized-june-30--127741|title=Gilberto Ramirez vs. Roamer Alexis Angulo Finalized For June 30|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-05-02|language=en-us}} In front of a small crowd of 5,241 in attendance, Ramírez successfully retained his WBO title in defeating Angulo via unanimous decision. Although Ramírez was the clear winner, the crowd booed as the scores of 120–108, 119–109 and 119–109 were read out. Many media outlets including ESPN had the fight closer. Angulo turned out to be a tougher challenger than expected as he rocked Ramírez on a number of occasions, most notably in the third and seventh rounds, however lack of action on his part led to him losing most rounds. After being hurt by Angulo's hard right hand, Ramírez did well to avoid it for the remainder of the bout. In round twelve, Angulo trapped Ramírez but could not land the right hand.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-wins-decision-hands-angulo-results--129587|title=Gilberto Ramirez Wins Decision, Hands Angulo First Defeat|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-07-02|language=en-us}} Ramírez, who was not happy with his performance, said, "I tried to do better. I want to go back to training with my team, and we need to keep working, working because I want to be a pound-for-pound fighter. (Angulo) was undefeated. He came in really hungry to come for my belt." Over the last three rounds, Ramírez out landed Angulo 51–28. In total, according to CompuBox Stats, Ramírez landed 178 of 648 punches thrown (28%) and Angulo landed 113 of his 485 thrown (23%). After the bout, Ramírez stated he wanted to unify the super middleweight division.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/23958530/gilberto-ramirez-outpoints-roamer-alexis-angulo-retains-super-middleweight-title|title=Super middleweight titlist Ramirez beats Angulo|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-07-02}} The entire telecast averaged 632,000 viewers.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/ramirez-angulo-tripleheader-averages-632000-viewers-on-espn--129648|title=Ramirez-Angulo Tripleheader Averages 632,000 Viewers on ESPN|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-10-24|language=en-us}}

By October 2018, Jesse Hart (25–1, 21 KOs) became the mandatory challenger for Ramírez's WBO title. It was slated the two would have a rematch in December 2018.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-hart-i-want-unify-with-canelo--132667|title=Gilberto Ramirez: After Hart I Want To Unify With Canelo!|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-11-14|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-training-hard-jesse-hart-rematch--133040|title=Gilberto Ramirez Training Hard For Jesse Hart Rematch|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-11-14|language=en-us}} In November, the fight was officially announced to take place at the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas, on 14 December 2018. Promoter Bob Arum believed both boxers had improved from their first bout, which took place in September 2017 and was a fight of the year candidate. The first bout was also considered as Ramírez's toughest WBO title defence. The bout was to main event the ESPN+ broadcast.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/25268031/gilberto-ramirez-rematch-jesse-hart-headline-december-card|title=Ramirez-Hart rematch set for December in Texas|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-11-14|language=en}} The Mexican earned a narrow victory by majority decision, with two 115-113 scorecards and a 114-114.[https://www.ringtv.com/550493-gilberto-ramirez-outpoints-jesse-hart-again-seeks-greater-challenges-at-175-pounds/ Gilberto Ramirez outpoints Jesse Hart again, seeks greater challenges at 175 pounds] - The Ring, 14 December 2018

In February, 2019, Ramirez, with the support of his team and Top Rank, announced that he will be moving in weight to seek new fights at light heavyweight.{{Cite web|last=|first=|date=2 February 2019|title=Gilberto Ramirez Eyes Alvarez-Kovalev: I'm Going To 175 Next!|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-eyes-alvarez-kovalev-im-going-175-next--135906|archive-url=|archive-date=|access-date=2020-06-10|website=BoxingScene.com|language=en-us}}

On 12 April 2019, on the Lomachenko vs Crolla undercard, Ramirez made his debut at 175 pounds against former world title challenger Tommy Karpency. Ramirez managed to force Karpency to retire in his corner at the end of the fourth round, throwing 316 punches during the process, landing 83, of which 30 were body shots. Karpency later claimed that his ribs were broken after 30 seconds of action.{{Cite web|date=2019-04-12|title=Gilberto Ramirez halts Tommy Karpency in fourth round|url=https://www.ringtv.com/559134-gilberto-ramirez-halts-tommy-karpency-in-four-rounds/|access-date=2020-06-10|website=The Ring}}

In early 2020, the Mexican was ordered by the WBO to fight Eleider Álvarez, but he did not confirm interest. After disagreements with Top Rank, he became a free agent in July 2020.[https://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-free-agent-amicably-spilts-with-top-rank--150277 Gilberto Ramirez a Free Agent, Amicably Spilts [sic] With Top Rank] - Ryan Burton, Boxing Scene, 18 July 2020

Ramírez knocked out Alfonso Lopez in the tenth round to claim the NABF title in Galveston, Texas. In his first bout in 20 months, Ramirez dropped Lopez in round two and dominated the fight by maintaining range.{{cite web |title=Ramirez, Hunter score KOs in Galveston, Texas |url=https://fightnews.com/results-from-galveston-texas/96185 |website=Fight News |date=19 December 2020 |access-date=17 May 2021}}

On 5 November 2022, Ramirez faced WBA Light Heavyweight champion title Dmitry Bivol. Ramirez lost by unanimous decision.

On October 7, 2023, in Las Vegas, Ramirez made his cruiserweight debut against former WBO light heavyweight champion Joe Smith Jr.{{cite news |last1=Iskenderov |first1=Parviz |title=Zurdo Ramirez vs Joe Smith Jr date set for Oct 7 in Las Vegas |url=https://www.fightmag.com.au/2023/08/22/gilberto-zurdo-ramirez-vs-joe-smith-jr-date-set-for-oct-7-in-las-vegas/ |access-date=3 October 2023 |work=FIGHTMAG |date=21 August 2023}} He won by unanimous decision.{{cite news |title=Ramirez def. Smith Jr. by unanimous decision |url=https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/38598907/gilberto-ramirez-def-joe-smith-jr-wba-cruiserweight-bout |access-date=16 February 2024 |work=ESPN.com |date=8 October 2023 |language=en}}

On March 30, 2024 at YouTube Theater inside SoFi Stadium{{cite news |last1=Iskenderov |first1=Parviz |title=Zurdo Ramirez: When I moved to cruiserweight, I had my eyes on Arsen Goulamirian |url=https://www.fightmag.com/zurdo-ramirez-when-i-moved-to-cruiserweight-i-had-my-eyes-on-arsen-goulamirian/ |work=FIGHTMAG |date=23 February 2024}} in Inglewood, California, Ramirez was scheduled to challenge Arsen Goulamirian for the WBA cruiserweight title.{{cite news |last1=Iskenderov |first1=Parviz |title=Zurdo Ramirez challenges Arsen Goulamirian in March in LA |url=https://www.fightmag.com/gilberto-zurdo-ramirez-challenges-arsen-goulamirian-in-march-in-la/ |work=FIGHTMAG |date=16 February 2024}} He won the fight by unanimous decision, making him the first boxer from Mexico to win in a title in cruiserweight.{{cite news |last1=Iskenderov |first1=Parviz |title=Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez bests Arsen Goulamirian to become two-weight champion |url=https://www.fightmag.com/gilberto-zurdo-ramirez-bests-arsen-goulamirian-to-become-two-weight-champion/ |work=FIGHTMAG |date=31 March 2024}}

Ramirez put his WBA cruiserweight title on the line in a world championship unification bout against WBO champion Chris Billam-Smith in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on 16 November 2024.{{cite news |last1=Iskenderov |first1=Parviz |title=Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez faces Chris Billam-Smith in Nov in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia |url=https://www.fightmag.com/gilberto-zurdo-ramirez-faces-chris-billam-smith-in-nov-in-riyadh-saudi-arabia/ |work=FIGHTMAG |date=11 September 2024}} He won by unanimous decision.{{cite web|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/gilberto-ramirez-unifies-cruiserweight-titles-with-hard-fought-decision-win-over-chris-billam-smith--200212|title=Gilberto Ramirez unifies cruiserweight titles with hard-fought decision win over Chris Billam-Smith|publisher=Boxing Scene|accessdate=17 November 2024}}{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/articles/cy8nlpeww9go|title=Ramirez outclasses brave Billam-Smith to unify titles|date=17 November 2024 |publisher=BBC Sport|accessdate=17 November 2024}}{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/42432346/gilberto-zurdo-ramirez-chris-billam-smith-cruiserweight-champion|title=Ramirez beats Billam-Smith in cruiserweight unification bout|date=16 November 2024 |publisher=ESPN|accessdate=17 November 2024}}

Ramirez is scheduled to defend his unified WBA and WBO cruiserweight titles against Yuniel Dorticos on June 28, 2025, in Anaheim, CA.{{cite news |title=Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez Gets Cuban Test On Jake Paul Undercard |url=https://boxingnewsonline.net/gilberto-zurdo-ramirez-gets-cuban-test-on-jake-paul-undercard/ |work=boxingnewsonline.net |date=18 April 2025}}{{cite news |last1=Iskenderov |first1=Parviz |title=Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez vs Yuniel Dorticos set as co-feature to Paul-Chavez Jr |url=https://www.fightmag.com/gilberto-zurdo-ramirez-vs-yuniel-dorticos-set-as-co-feature-to-paul-chavez-jr/ |work=FIGHTMAG |date=18 April 2025}}

{{BoxingRecordSummary

|draws=

|nc=

|ko-wins=30

|ko-losses=

|dec-wins=17

|dec-losses=1

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}}

• List of southpaw stance boxers
• List of Mexican boxing world champions
• List of world super-middleweight boxing champions
• List of world cruiserweight boxing champions

{{Reflist}}

• {{Boxrec|id=509666}}
• [https://box.live/boxers/gilberto-ramirez/ Gilberto Ramirez - Profile, News Archive & Current Rankings] at [https://Box.Live Box.Live]
• [http://boxingprospects.blogspot.com/2011/04/gilberto-ramirez-sanchez.html Profile of Gilberto Ramírez Sanchez]

{{s-start}}

{{s-sports}}

{{s-text|style=background:#C1D8FF; font-weight: bold;|text=Regional boxing titles}}

|-

{{s-vac|last=Anton Novikov}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBC Youth
middleweight champion

|years=17 December 2010 – April 2014
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Adam Etches}}

|-

{{s-vac|last=Adonis Stevenson}}

{{s-ttl|title=NABO
super middleweight champion

|years=11 April 2014 – 19 July 2014
Won International title}}

{{s-vac|next=Jesse Hart}}

|-

{{s-vac|last=Marco Antonio Peribán}}

{{s-ttl|title=NABF super middleweight champion

|years=11 April 2014 – 9 April 2016
Won world title}}

{{s-vac|next=Ronald Gavril}}

|-

{{s-vac|last=Balázs Kelemen}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBO International
super middleweight champion

|years=19 July 2014 – 9 April 2016
Won world title}}

{{s-vac|next=Arthur Abraham}}

|-

{{s-vac|last=Alfonso López III}}

{{s-ttl|title=NABF light heavyweight champion

|years=18 December 2022 – December 2022
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Ahmed Elbiali}}

{{s-text|style=background:#C1D8FF; font-weight: bold;|text=World boxing titles}}

{{s-bef|before=Arthur Abraham}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBO super middleweight champion

|years=9 April 2016 – 13 May 2019
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Billy Joe Saunders}}

{{s-bef|before=Arsen Goulamirian}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA cruiserweight champion

|years=30 March 2024 – present}}

{{s-inc|rows=2}}

|-

{{s-bef|before=Chris Billam-Smith}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBO cruiserweight champion

|years=16 November 2024 – present}}

{{s-end}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Ramírez, Gilberto}}

Category:1991 births

Category:Living people

Category:Mexican male boxers

Category:Boxers from Sinaloa

Category:Sportspeople from Mazatlán

Category:Southpaw boxers

Category:Middleweight boxers

Category:World super-middleweight boxing champions

Category:Light-heavyweight boxers

Category:World cruiserweight boxing champions

Category:World Boxing Organization champions

Category:World Boxing Association champions

Category:21st-century Mexican sportsmen