Kayla Gomez is ready to shine as a professional boxer.
The 22-year-old El Pasoan will make her much anticipated debut on Friday, June 19, at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California.
Gomez will face fellow debutant Shayntain Creer of Georgia in a four-round super flyweight bout, which will be televised live on DAZN and is being promoted by Misfits Boxing, which promotes Gomez.
The Gomez vs. Creer will be contested at the super flyweight weight limit of 115 pounds.
Kayla Gomez and her amateur boxing success
Gomez established herself as one of Team USA’s top prospects by capturing the first-ever Junior Pan American Games female flyweight gold medal in 2021. Her historic achievement, combined with her relentless work ethic, technical skill, and competitive spirit, led to her recognition as one of the brightest young talents in amateur boxing.
Overall, Gomez won 18 national titles and developed a winning pedigree to get her ready for the professional ranks.
“All the experiences I have had to this point have helped me get ready for the professional level,” Gomez said. “All the big tournaments, all the travel, really helped me learn and develop to be the best overall fighter I can be.”
Gomez took time off from boxing to become a mother
In addition to being a successful boxer, Gomez also is a mother of 10-month-old Gianna Amor.
“Being a mother is an amazing feeling and has given me even more purpose and focus,” Gomez said. “I love my daughter so much and want to be an inspiration for her.”
What we can expect from Kayla Gomez in terms of her style
Gomez has tremendous passion for the sport and she’s versatile. She is a talented all-around boxer and, as with any boxer, it’ll be interesting to see how her power develops.
The experience Gomez has picked up through the years fighting different styles will help her.
“I’ve spent years developing my skills and learning every aspect of the sport. Now it’s time to put everything together on a bigger stage,” Gomez said. “I want people to see the passion I bring into the ring. This debut is just the beginning, and I’m determined to make an impression that people won’t forget.”
Gomez said her training camp has gone well leading up to her pro debut.
“This training camp has been hard and rewarding,” Gomez said. “My team and I know how important this first professional fight is, so we’ve worked hard every single day. We’ve focused on getting in great shape and making sure I’m ready for whatever my opponent brings on fight night. I feel prepared.”
What does Amer Abdallah of Misfits say about Kayla Gomez
“Kayla has so much potential,” said Abdallah, who is the president of Misfits Boxing. “We believe she is a rising star and has all the ability to be a world champion. Kayla is really determined to be successful and she has a great work ethic. We look for her to have a busy second half of the year.”
Family bond
Gomez’ mother, Crystal Aceves is her trainer, and Gomez’ brother, Damien Gomez, is a mixed martial fighter, who fought in a Las Cruces show on Saturday, June 13.
“Kayla looks amazing in the gym, her power is amazing and she’s ready. Kayla has been sparring bigger fighters and that’s helped her,” Aceves said. “It’s been a successful journey to this point as an amateur and now Kayla is ready for her next challenge.”
Added Damien Gomez: “Kayla has inspired me and has accomplished so much in her career. I know she is ready and ready to accomplish even more in her career.”
Gomez believes her family support has been integral to her success.
“Having my mother work with me and the support of all my family has been so important to me, that consistent support has been and will always be important,” Gomez said. “I’ve been waiting for this moment my entire life. Every sacrifice, every early morning run, every hard sparring session and every amateur fight has led me to this opportunity.
“I’m excited, motivated, and ready to show everyone what I’ve been working on.”
Felix F. Chavez can be reached at fchavez@elpasotimes.com; @Fchavezeptimes on x
This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: El Paso amateur boxing super flyweight Kayla Gomez to make pro debut
Reporting by Felix F. Chavez, El Paso Times / El Paso Times
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By Felix F. Chavez, El Paso Times | USA TODAY Network
