Junior welterweight contender Kenneth Sims Jr. has struggled with inactivity in recent years, but 2024 is shaping up to be a turning point for the Chicago native.
Sims will step into the ring again on November 16, fighting Oscar Duarte as part of the season’s “Latino Night” in Riyad at The Venue in Saudi Arabia.
After declaring himself a grave contender and winning a majority vote over Elvis Rodriguez in 2021, Sims (21-2-1, 8 KO) found himself on the regional fight circuit, struggling to stay energetic. Sims had four fights between 2021 and 2023, including a potential fight of the year with Botirzhon Akhmedov, which aired on Showtime. This year, Sims, 30, who now trains in Las Vegas, signed with Golden Boy Promotions and made his promotional debut in August, stopping Jonathan Romero in five rounds.
His opponent, Mexican Duarte (27-2-1, 22 KO), may have been stopped by Ryan Garcia in December 2023, but under the guidance of trainer Robert Garcia, he rebounded by knocking out Joseph Diaz Jr. 2024. Duarte, 28, is a mighty boxer and Sims is known for his deft boxing skills, making for an intriguing clash of styles.
This fight is a key opportunity for Sims to stay energetic and perform at their best.
“I’m just excited to be back [in the ring]Sims said. “It’s been a long time, and these are two fights back to back – that’s when I’m in the best shape and energetic. I just appreciate that Golden Boy keeps me busy and I’m ready to put on an amazing performance.
Sims is well aware of Duarte’s challenge, but is confident in his preparation and mindset. Sims also knows that a win could put him in a title berth at the top of the division
“Oscar Duarte is a tough opponent, so I have to give my all, which is what I intend to do every time I step into the ring. “I’m training like it’s the last fight I’ll ever fight, so I plan on putting on an amazing performance and putting on a great show for you guys,” Sims said.