Oscar Duarte vs. Kenneth Sims Jr.: A Super Lightweight Showdown Set to Ignite Chicago

Get ready for fireworks when two of the super lightweight division’s most dangerous contenders collide in a high-stakes main event. Oscar “La Migraña” Duarte (29-2-1, 23 KOs), known for his relentless pressure and knockout power, is set to square off against Kenneth “Bossman” Sims Jr. (22-2-1, 8 KOs), a slick, skillful technician fighting in front of his hometown crowd. This 12-round bout will headline a stacked card on Saturday, August 2, live on DAZN from Credit Union 1 Arena in Chicago.

Presented in partnership with Cancun Boxing, the event marks Golden Boy Promotions' exciting return to Chicago after more than a decade—and it promises to deliver non-stop action as both fighters chase a shot at world title glory.

“I’m thrilled to be headlining on August 2 against Sims Jr., someone I was supposed to fight before, but fate had other plans,” said Duarte. “Thanks to Oscar De La Hoya, Eric Gómez, and the Golden Boy team for believing in me. We’re going all in to bring home the win and get closer to a world championship.”

Sims Jr., eager to perform for his hometown fans, added, “This fight has been a long time coming. I’m healthy and ready to put on a show in the greatest city in the world—Chicago. Expect fireworks.”

Golden Boy chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya echoed that sentiment: “There’s no hiding in this one. This fight has been brewing for a while, and with the tension between these two, August 2 is going to be electric.”

From Chihuahua to Championship Contender: Oscar Duarte’s Climb

Oscar Duarte’s journey began when he first entered a boxing ring at age 11. The sport quickly became his calling. As an amateur, he racked up five state titles, five regional championships, four national titles, and a bronze medal before turning pro in 2013.

Known for his aggressive style, Duarte gained wider recognition when he faced Ryan Garcia in December 2023. Although he didn’t win, the fight proved his willingness to challenge the best. Under trainer Robert Garcia, Duarte bounced back strong—most notably becoming the first to stop former world champion Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz in April 2024.

He followed that up with a gritty win over former training partner Batyr Akhmedov in Saudi Arabia, and earlier this year, he knocked out Miguel Madueño in a thrilling all-Mexican clash, claiming the WBA Continental Americas super lightweight title. Now ranked No. 5 by the WBA, Duarte heads to Chicago ready for a long-anticipated fight with Sims Jr.—a matchup originally set for November 2024 but delayed due to Sims’ knee injury.

Kenneth Sims Jr.: Chicago’s Own Eyes World Title Shot

Kenneth Sims Jr. brings elite amateur pedigree and a sharp boxing IQ into this showdown. A former Team USA standout, Sims was a nine-time national amateur champion and fought in the 2012 Olympic Trials and 2013 World Championships.

Turning pro in 2014, Sims quickly made waves before suffering two early-career setbacks. But he bounced back in a big way—most notably with a 2021 upset over undefeated prospect Elvis Rodriguez. Since then, he’s racked up six straight wins, rising to No. 4 in the WBA rankings.

Sims’ most recent performance came on the same card as Duarte’s knockout win over Madueño, where he secured a unanimous decision victory. Now, after a heated buildup—including some tense exchanges on social media and at their February press conference—the stage is finally set.

Chicago vs. Chihuahua: Styles Clash in Can’t-Miss Main Event

This is more than just a boxing match—it’s a clash of styles, cities, and mentalities. Duarte, the heavy-handed brawler from Parral, Chihuahua, brings pressure from the opening bell. Sims Jr., the cerebral technician from Chicago, will look to outthink and outmaneuver his opponent.

Originally slated for November 2024 in Riyadh, this fight now lands on neutral turf—yet with Sims’ hometown fans behind him. With both fighters ranked in the WBA top five and chasing world title opportunities, this main event promises edge-of-your-seat action.

Stay tuned for more details on tickets and the undercard lineup. One thing’s certain: on August 2, Chicago will host a war.