Yan Santana Weighs in at 126 Pounds Before Bout Against Brandon Valdes
Yan Santana has heeded counsel from a preeminent pugilist of contemporary times, reaping substantial benefits from such sagacity.
Santana, a burgeoning talent in the boxing realm, is slated to square off against Brandon Valdes tonight at the James L. Knight Center, Miami Beach, Florida. The 10-round featherweight bout features on the undercard of the Teofimo Lopez-Steve Claggett world title clash and will be streamed live on ESPN Plus (5:45 p.m. ET/2:45 p.m. PT).
At Friday’s weigh-in, both contenders registered a weight of 127 pounds.
The 24-year-old Santana (11-0, 11 knockouts), hailing from La Romana in the Dominican Republic, last entered the ring on April 6, overpowering Rodolfo Hernandez Montoya in the fourth round. In his preceding bout on November 10, Santana dispatched Ernesto Franzolini in the third round.
Santana has competed at weights up to 133 pounds, predominantly fighting around 130 pounds. Following strategic discussions with his team, Santana resolved to compete at 126 pounds.
“I feel a greater strength at 130 pounds, but competing as a featherweight seems optimal,” Santana confided to The Ring on Wednesday. “At 126 pounds, I feel comfortable, formidable, and agile.
“I’ve prepared rigorously for this training camp. Our approach is methodical, round by round. I’m not hunting for a knockout, but if the chance arises, I’ll seize it.”
Santana recently inked a promotional deal with Cotto Promotions. He has been fortunate to remain active, having fought four times in 2023.
Having Miguel Cotto, a former multi-division world champion, as his promoter is advantageous, but Cotto’s ringside presence and career guidance have been invaluable to Santana.
“It’s an honor to be promoted by Miguel Cotto,” said Santana, managed by David McWater. “He recognizes my talent. I’m deeply humbled by the opportunity he has given me. He often reaches out personally, offering invaluable advice on boxing and life. He’s a remarkable individual.
“I’ve gleaned much since training in Puerto Rico. The sport feels intrinsic to me. I’ve notably improved, particularly in lateral movement. My conditioning has always been strong due to my dedication.”
Santana aspires to join the ranks of Dominican fighters who have excelled at the contender and elite levels. Carlos Adames and Alberto Puello currently hold world titles, Hector Garcia is a former champion at 130 pounds, and Erick Rosa is a contender in the lower-weight divisions.
Unbeaten middleweight Euri Cedeño also competes on the Top Rank card. Santana believes Dominican fighters offer significant value to any promotional company.
“Dominican boxing is thriving,” said Santana. “The success of Dominican fighters stems from our discipline in the gym. All we need are the platforms, which I am fortunate to have with Cotto Promotions.
“I enjoy frequent fighting; if possible, I’d fight monthly. It keeps me and other fighters motivated. Dominican fighters are hardworking and dedicated in the gym.”
After a distinguished amateur career, Santana is optimistic about his future as a professional. He is grateful for the opportunity to showcase his skills on an ESPN platform.
“I won numerous tournaments as an amateur. I anticipated an Olympic opportunity, but the COVID pandemic disrupted my plans. The Dominican team chose fighters I had defeated in the amateur ranks.
“Receiving this opportunity is tremendous. I’m determined to capitalize on it. God has bestowed this talent upon me, and I’m highly motivated to excel and secure a resounding victory.”