In boxing, the next generation often takes center stage before the main event. On Saturday night, two rising stars will share the spotlight in San Juan, Puerto Rico. They are Marc Castro, a name already familiar to many, and Stephanie Pineiro, a local fighter quietly building momentum toward a potential title shot in 2025.
The undercard part of the IBF junior welterweight title clash between Liam Paro and Richardson Hitchins at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente features Castro on DAZN and Pineiro on Matchroom Boxing’s YouTube channel. While their paths differ, both fighters represent the promise of emerging talent carving their way into the sport’s top positions – the glory of being a titleholder.
Castro, 25, returns to lightweight after two bouts at junior lightweight and will be competing in Puerto Rico for the first time as a professional. A standout amateur who turned pro in December 2020 under Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, Castro’s pedigree is undeniable. The international gold medalist has wins over notable amateurs like Keyshawn Davis and Raymond Ford and carries an unbeaten record of 13-0 (8 KOs).
“We’re just here to fight, and we want the big fights as well,” Castro said. “I feel like the better the opponent, the better I’ll look.”
Castro’s opponent, Agustin Ezequiel Quintana, 28, from Argentina, holds a record of 20-2-1 (13 KOs) but is largely untested outside his home country. While Quintana was absent from the press conference, Castro’s confidence suggests he’s eyeing more prominent opportunities in 2025 – provided he delivers another statement performance.
Meanwhile, Puerto Rico’s own Stephanie Pineiro, nicknamed “The Medicine,” competes in an eight-round welterweight bout against late-sub Kalindra Faria. Pineiro, 34, holds a record of 7-0 (2 KOs) and is already ranked as the IBF’s No. 1 contender in her division. Despite her limited professional experience, Pineiro’s unanimous decision win over Diana Tapia – a fighter who had previously beaten five undefeated opponents, including 2024 Mexican Olympian Citlalli Ortiz – marked her as one to watch.
Faria, 38, holds a record of 2-2.
“It’s important that when we come to Puerto Rico, the young talent is showcased – not just showcased, but showcased in great fights,” Hearn said, emphasizing the significance of these undercard bouts.
Pineiro’s weight class is thin on depth but ripe with intrigue, with Natasha Jonas currently holding the IBF title and other key players like Sandy Ryan, titleholder Mikaela Mayer and belt holder Lauren Price in the mix across the rankings. Pineiro, with another win, could end up in a big fight.
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