Middleweight Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (4-0, 2 KOs) has locked in his opponent for Saturday, September 6th at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, California. The four-round showdown will see Kirkman take on Oregon's Dylan Carlson (2-10-3, 1 KO), a gritty and durable competitor who has never been stopped in his pro career. The bout will be part of a show promoted by Nasser Niavaroni of Uppercut Boxing Promotions. After weeks of anticipation, Kirkman is eager to finally have his opponent confirmed and his focus locked in for fight night. “Securing an opponent always feels like that final piece clicking into place,” said Kirkman. “Now it’s real. Now we go to war. I’ve stayed patient and stayed in the gym, and I’m ready to show everyone why they call me ‘The Inferno.’”
On fighting Carlson, who has never been knocked out, Kirkman, who recently just graduated from Stanford University, gives his thoughts on fighting a durable opponent. “Dylan Carlson is the kind of fighter who doesn’t quit,” continued Kirkman. “He’s been in there with undefeated guys who hit hard and push the pace, and no one’s put him away. That tells me everything I need to know—he’s coming to fight, and I respect that. But I’m ready to test myself against someone who’s never been stopped.
Known for his sharp fundamentals, high work rate, and explosive power, Kirkman promises to bring a new level of intensity to the ring as he continues building momentum in the middleweight division. “Expect me to throw a tremendous amount of punches in this fight as I’m in incredible shape,” Kirkman concluded. “Expect pressure. Expect growth. Every time I step in that ring, I’m sharpening my craft and raising the bar. September 6, I’m fighting for everyone who believes in me, and I’m going to put on a show.”