Jerwin Ancajas targets strong featherweight debut in Tijuana showdown

Jerwin Ancajas, the former world champion, is stepping into a new chapter of his career, one that takes him up to featherweight and straight in Tijuana, Mexico.

The Filipino veteran, once nicknamed “Pretty Boy” for his smooth boxing style, clean combinations, and technically refined approach inside the ring, is set to make his debut against a rugged and experienced Mexican opponent. 

He will face Rafael Rosas Ramirez, who is an experienced Mexican boxer holding a 20-10-2 record with 12 knockouts, and he enters the bout carrying both veteran toughness and the edge of fighting on home soil.

For Ancajas, the fight is more than just a debut—it is a statement opportunity to show he still belongs in world title conversations.

“I do not like to look forward about my next fight. My focus is to win my fight in Tijuana,” he said.

With momentum on his side, Ancajas enters the bout carrying a three-fight winning streak, including victories over Sukpasried Ponphitak, Richie Mepranum, and Ruben Casero. 

Training under longtime coach Joven Jimenez, Ancajas has reportedly looked sharper and more physically complete in camp, with improved stamina and strength becoming key talking points as he transitions further away from his super flyweight roots.

“I feel fresh and ready to start this new chapter of my career on fire. My condition is tremendously greater than it was. My punches, stamina and speed movements are so awesome,” he said.

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WATCH: Jerwin Ancajas Highlights

Former IBF Super Flyweight Champion Jerwin “The Pretty Boy” Ancajas (35-4-2, 23 KOs) is set to return to the ring against former world title challenger Richie Mepranum (38-9-1, 12 KOs) on January 18 in Iligan City, Philippines.

The… pic.twitter.com/bcT11RoQzW

— Brunch Boxing (@BrunchBoxing) January 6, 2025

Jimenez, meanwhile, remains cautiously optimistic, emphasizing readiness over hype as they evaluate how far the former IBF champion can go at featherweight.

“He is extremely comfortable. He is fast, strong and his stamina looks okay at those weights,” Jimenez said.

Still, the road ahead is not simple. Rosas Ramirez brings experience and durability, and fighting in Mexico adds another layer of difficulty for Ancajas, who will have to rely on discipline and composure to silence the home crowd.

Beyond this bout, Ancajas and his team are also looking at the bigger picture—how his body responds to the featherweight limit and whether another push for world title contention is realistic at this stage of his career. 

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