Welterweight Marcos Perez juggles punching flesh and tattooing it

OAKLAND, Calif – Welterweight Marcos Perez is poised to become the Bay Area’s hidden gem as he prepares for his professional debut against Ebert Diaz in a four-round bout at the Marriott on Broadway in Oakland.

Like many fighters emerging on the club and regional scene, Perez juggles his boxing aspirations with a day job as a tattoo artist, where he creates lasting memories for his clients. This career shift from construction work allows him more control over his schedule, a necessary change as he pursues his boxing dreams.

“I took a pay cut to chase my dreams,” Perez said.

Perez, who has competed at a national level since 2021, faced setbacks in key bouts, losing in the Golden Gloves quarterfinals in 2022 and the finals in 2023. Despite these challenges, those close to Perez believe he has untapped potential, noting his sparring sessions with top fighters like Devin Haney and his solid amateur background.

“I’m going all in on boxing,” Perez affirmed.

In preparation for his professional debut, Perez made a significant branding decision, changing his Instagram handle to @OfficialMarcosPerez to reflect his transition into the professional ranks. He admitted missing his previous nickname but acknowledged the importance of maturity and professionalism as he embarks on this new chapter.

“It’s a mentality shift,” Perez explained. “I’m stepping into a new era of my life, and that requires some changes.”

Perez weighed in at 144 pounds, slightly heavier than his opponent, Diaz (1-1-1, 1 KO), who tipped the scales at 143.5 pounds. Diaz, a former sparring partner of Manuel Jaimes, trains under Filemon Contreras in Richmond, Calif. Observers noted the intensity as the fighters faced off ahead of their regional showdown. Perez is hoping to become a fighter for the blue-collar region of Concord, Martinez, and surrounding areas that have not had many over the years represent them. 

“I’m ready to introduce myself to the world,” Perez said with a smile following the weigh-in on Friday afternoon.