Oscar Duarte and Kenneth Sims Jr. Set for WBA Showdown in Chicago

In an eagerly anticipated showdown, top-10 contenders Oscar Duarte and Kenneth Sims Jr. are set to face off in a super lightweight eliminator for the WBA title on Saturday night at the Credit Union 1 Arena in Chicago, Illinois. The match marks a significant moment for both fighters as they vie for a chance to challenge the current titleholder, Gary Antuanne Russell.

Duarte enters the ring with a professional record of 29 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, including 23 knockouts. He has rebounded impressively from a knockout loss to Ryan Garcia in December 2023, winning three fights in a row. Notably, he scored a victory against two-time title challenger Botirzhon Akhmedov in November 2023 and became the first fighter to stop Miguel Madueno in February 2024.

Sims, with a record of 22 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, has been unbeaten since 2018. Despite experiencing setbacks in his early career, including two defeats on the SHOBox development series, he has demonstrated resilience. Sims made a strong impression in his Golden Boy debut by stopping Jonathan Romero in August 2024.

Fight Background and Stakes

The Duarte vs. Sims fight was initially scheduled for November 2023, but an injury forced Sims to withdraw. Duarte subsequently faced Akhmedov instead. Both fighters returned to the ring in February, where Duarte stopped Madueno, and Sims defeated Kendo Castaneda. The stakes are high for this matchup, as the winner will be in prime position for a title shot.

In addition to the main event, the card features a co-main event that includes former world champions Regis Prograis and Joseph Diaz Jr.. Prograis, holding a record of 29 wins and 3 losses with 24 knockouts, is looking to halt a two-fight losing streak. Diaz, with 34 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw, has faced challenges as well, losing six out of his last eight bouts. Both fighters know that another defeat could jeopardize their prospects in the competitive landscape of boxing.

Event Details and Viewing Information

The main card for the Duarte vs. Sims Jr. event kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on DAZN, with ring walks for the main event anticipated around 11 p.m. ET. Fans can follow the action with live results, highlights, and play-by-play coverage available through various platforms, including Uncrowned.

As anticipation builds for this significant night in boxing, Duarte and Sims Jr. are prepared to deliver an exciting bout that could shape their future in the sport. The fight is not only a clash of skills but a pivotal moment in their careers, underscoring the resilience and determination inherent in professional boxing.