Julius Ballo, one of the top amateurs in the United States, has signed a co-promotional deal with Overtime Boxing and Top Rank, it was announced Tuesday.
The speedy technician Ballo, 21, of San Diego, California will be managed by James Prince and will fight in the featherweight division. His debut will take place on an OTX card that has yet to be announced, according to a press release.
Ballo had been a member of the U.S. national team, and last competed in May, winning a gold medal at the National Golden Gloves. His other notable achievements include winning the USA National Championships in 2021 and 2022, plus winning gold at the 2021 Junior Pan American Games in Cali, Colombia.
“OTX has built a platform for the next generation of boxing fans. Combining that with Top Rank’s prestige, I knew this was the perfect team to help launch my professional career,” said the Iraqi-American Ballo. “I represent a new school of fighters looking to revamp the sport, and I’m looking forward to building my way to the top.”
“Julius Ballo is the entire package, a sensational young fighter with the ability and personality to be a superstar in the sport,” added Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “Top Rank is thrilled to be working with OTX, a forward-thinking brand that excels in connecting with a younger demographic.”
The Ballo signing is the first partnership between Top Rank and Overtime Boxing, the latter of which streams on DAZN and has featured many upcoming prospects, including Ballo’s cousin Jonathan Mansour, 3-0 (1 KO).
“As OTX continues to grow, we’re looking to work with fighters who not only know how to fight in the ring but who can also captivate their audiences out of the ring on social media,” said OTX GM Brandon Rhodes. “Partnering with Top Rank on this co-promotion was a seamless decision as they bring their legacy and expertise to the table, while we bring our digital-first prowess and younger audience.”
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