Top Rank’s junior lightweight Andres Cortes (23-0, 12 KOs) is set to continue his march toward a world title shot when he faces heavy-handed Puerto Rican veteran Derlyn Hernandez-Geraldo (13-4-1, 11 KOs) in a ten-round bout on Saturday at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California. The event, titled “Night of Champions V” is promoted by DMG Boxing.  A Las Vegas native, Cortes has remained in the gym and focused, training in his hometown under the guidance of his brother and manager, Luis Cortes. “I’ve had a great camp—very focused, very intense,” said Cortes. “We’ve worked hard on all aspects of my game, tightening up my defense, and making sure I’m not just in shape, but in fight rhythm. Staying active is important if I want to stay at the top.”

 

Cortes emphasized the value of consistency and the importance of treating every fight like a championship bout. The matchup is expected to be a high-action bout, with Cortes eager to show fans that he can dominate against any style. “No matter who’s across the ring, I train the same way—like everything’s on the line. That mindset is what keeps me ahead,” he added.

 

While Cortes enters as the undefeated favorite, he knows that Hernandez-Geraldo brings real danger—especially with his high knockout ratio and veteran experience. “He’s got power, and I respect that,” continued Cortes. “I know he’s going to come forward and try to make it a fight, but that’s exactly the kind of challenge I want. I’m going to use my skills, my timing, and my IQ to break him down round by round.”

 

As Cortes moves closer to title contention, staying active and staying sharp are top priorities. The October 18 bout will mark his second fight of the year, with eyes set on an even bigger stage in 2026. “This is about staying ready. I want to be in the position where, when that title opportunity comes, there’s no question I’m prepared,” Cortes concluded. “Every fight is part of the bigger picture, and this one is no different. I plan to put on a performance that reminds everyone why I’m one of the top contenders in this division.”