Former WBA 140-pound champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero is promising to fight with an all-action style when he takes on the hard-hitting Manuel Jaimes in the opening bout of a PBC pay-per-view broadcast on Prime Video Saturday, September 14th from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. “This fight is about making a statement and getting back in the win column,” said Romero. “As always, I’m coming for the knockout.” Romero’s bout will kick off a pay-per-view broadcast in support of Canelo Álvarez's world super middleweight championship defense against unbeaten Edgar Berlanga. For Romero, the opportunity to compete in an event like this in his hometown is extra motivation heading into fight night. “Fighting in my hometown is always special,” said Romero. “The energy from the crowd is electrifying and gives me an extra boost. There’s nothing like fighting in front of the people who’ve been supporting me from the start. I’m coming to steal the show and give everyone a night to remember.”
The 28-year-old Romero (15-2, 13 KOs) will step back into the ring for the first time since losing his world title to Mexico's Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in March. Romero claimed the title in 2023 by [controversially] stopping Ismael Barroso in round nine [with some assistance from the referee]. Cruz has subsequently lost to the WBA title to Jose "Rayo" Valenzuela.
Under the guidance of the renowned trainer Ismael Salas, Romero believes he’s made improvements that will take his game to the next level on September 14th and beyond. "This training camp has been one of the best I've had,” said Romero. “We've focused on refining my technique, increasing my power, and sharpening my mental game. My team and I have put in countless hours in the gym, and I feel stronger and more prepared than ever. Coach Salas has pushed me to new limits, and I’m excited to showcase those improvements in the ring."
The 24-year-old Jaimes (16-1-1, 11 KOs) hails from Stockton, California and who enters this fight on a four-bout winning streak. While it will be Jaimes’ debut on the national stage, Romero has no plans to take a victory for granted. “Manuel Jaimes is a tough opponent, and I’m not taking him lightly,” said Romero. “He’s got good skills and a lot of heart, but I believe my power and speed will be the difference. I’ve studied his style, and we’ve put together a game plan that I’m confident will win this fight. I’m going to win this fight because I have to win this fight, that’s the only thing on my mind.”
If Romero can emerge victorious, especially in the spectacular fashion he plans on winning in, he knows that he’ll put himself right back into position to reclaim a world title in the talent-laden 140-pound division. "A win against Jaimes will be a step back in the right direction,” said Romero. “It opens up opportunities for bigger fights against all the big names. I’m looking to dominate and make a statement that I’m ready for anyone in the division. I want to add this guy to my highlight reel and set the stage for what’s next."
