ASTANA, Kazakhstan (July 3, 2025) – Team USA’s momentum surged on Thursday as two standout athletes—Yoseline Perez and Robby Gonzales—clinched semifinal berths and secured the team’s first medals at the World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025, hosted at the Zhaksylyk Ushkempirov Martial Arts Palace.
Perez Extends Dominance, Earns Third Medal of the Year
Yoseline Perez (female 54 kg) continued her spectacular 2025 campaign by cruising to another unanimous decision victory, this time over Turkey’s Gamze Soguksu. The Houston native showcased her high-pressure style across all three rounds, earning her second 5-0 verdict of the tournament and fifth of the year. With Thursday’s win, Perez guarantees at least a bronze medal—her third international medal of 2025.
Perez will face Poland’s Wiktoria Rogalinska in the semifinals on Saturday, July 5, with her sights set on another gold following a silver in Brazil and a gold in the Czech Republic earlier this year.
“She’s one of the most consistent and relentless fighters on the circuit this year,” said a Team USA coach. “Every bout is a statement.”
Gonzales Guts Out Win, Secures Another International Podium
Robby Gonzales (male 80 kg), the team’s anchor on day four, delivered a bruising performance against Germany’s Ben Ehis, punishing his opponent with repeated body shots en route to a 4-1 decision. The Las Vegas boxer now moves into the semifinals, where he will face France’s Yojerlin Cesar.
This marks Gonzales’ second international medal of 2025, following a bronze last month in the Czech Republic.
“Robby’s timing and physicality really showed today,” noted Head Coach Billy Walsh. “He’s matured into a complete international threat.”
Other Results and Updates
Marie Rosendo (female 70 kg) faced a tough test in Germany’s Leonie Muller and dropped a unanimous decision (0-5). It was her second international outing of 2025, providing valuable experience as she continues her development.
Alyssa Mendoza (female 57 kg) was withdrawn from the tournament due to medical reasons prior to her scheduled quarterfinal bout. Mendoza is expected to fully recover and return to action at the inaugural World Boxing Championships in Liverpool this September.
More Action on the Horizon
Team USA isn’t done yet. Two additional boxers will compete in quarterfinal action on Friday, July 4, looking to join Perez and Gonzales on the podium:
Morelle McCane (female 65 kg) vs. Maelys Richol (France) – Ring B, Bout 4
Rene Camacho (male 65 kg) vs. Abhinash Jamwal (India) – Ring A, Bout 7
The U.S. coaching staff includes Head Coach Billy Walsh, National Resident Coach Timothy Nolan, and assistant coaches Nicole Burleson and Eric Zimmerman.
How to Watch & Follow
All sessions of the World Boxing Cup: Astana 2025 are broadcast free on the World Boxing YouTube page.
For updates, behind-the-scenes coverage, and athlete highlights, follow USA Boxing across all social media platforms.