G-Squad Entertainment, the upstart promotion led by Gabe Flores Sr., is back for its third event on Saturday, and it is putting thought into more than just the boxing.
The father of lightweight contender Gabriel Flores Jr. is pulling out all the stops, turning Adventist Health Arena (formerly Stockton Arena) into a Halloween-themed spectacle.
In true G-Squad fashion, the 10-round main event will feature Flores Jr (22-2, 10 KOs), against Mexico’s Dennis Contreras (24-14-1, 22 KOs). But that isn’t the only attraction. According to the promotion’s press release, fans will be treated to contortionists, stilt walkers, and even a fire breather, all part of their effort to make the night a “Halloween spectacular.” Flores Sr is staying true to his mission of providing family-friendly entertainment for Stockton. Costumes are encouraged, and candy will be handed out to the kids. The venue is also labeled as a haunted house.
“We wanted to give back with this promotion, but boxing is only part of what we do,” Flores Sr. told BoxingScene. “We’re creating a safe space for people to enjoy live events. After two shows, this is our most ambitious one yet, and it will set the tone for what’s coming next year.”
At Flores Sr.’s side is Julio Sanchez, the company’s president and his jack-of-all-trades, who used to be the team photographer. Sanchez explained that a lot of thought goes into these events without tipping his hat to what the tricks of the trade are. “We want the fans to not just be at the show, but part of it,” Sanchez said while juggling two phones speaking with BoxingScene. “This event is the first step in that direction.”
Flores Jr, now based in Las Vegas, has consistently stated that fighting in front of his hometown crowd gives him a “superpower.” With two victories in Stockton already this year, the 22-year-old is eager to finish 2024 on a high note. Contreras, 32, is stepping in as a last-minute replacement after the original opponent, Daniel Bailey (15-2, 8 KOs), withdrew from the bout.
“The original fight was set with Daniel Bailey,” said Flores Sr. “Two to three weeks out, Bailey overpriced himself.”
Now, with this last-minute matchup in place, Flores Jr. is focused on making the most of the opportunity.
The undercard tells a deeper story about the grit required to succeed in today’s boxing landscape. Lightweight prospect Lorenzo Powell (2-0, 1 KO), 22, will face fellow unbeaten fighter Adrian Serrano (3-0-1), 20, from Salinas, Calif. Women’s welterweight Jennah Creason (1-0), 18, will be tested against India’s Archana Sharma (3-1, 2 KOs). And an intriguing junior lightweight clash pits unbeaten Dominique Francis (15-0, 9 KOs) against Julio Carrera Lugo (18-0-1, 14 KOs) in a battle of unbeatens. Rounding out the card is local fighter Tatiana Almaraz (0-4) from Concord, Calif., who will face Vickie Zhao in her pro debut.
“We want to put on a good fight card,” said Flores Sr. “People are spending their hard-earned money, and we want to make sure they’re seeing a first-class event, from their seats to social media. This card reflects that.”
With a press conference Thursday, a weigh-in Friday, and the big fight Saturday night, G-Squad is going all in to give Stockton a true “big fight” feel. “We’re blending boxing with family attractions,” Sanchez added. “It’s a delicate balance, but we’re focused on the details to ensure fans leave satisfied.”
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