Roman Gonzalez set to make bantamweight debut, eyeing year-end championship opportunity in Japan

Former Pound-for-Pound Star Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez Eyes Grand Ambitions for 2024

Having been sidelined throughout 2023, the anticipation grows around the comeback of Nicaraguan boxing legend Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez. With reliable reports from Levi Luna indicating that the 36-year-old is set to make his return in a hometown fight in Managua before aiming for a bantamweight title showdown on a Japanese stage towards the end of the year.

Gonzalez (51-4, 41 KO) has never shied away from challenging himself by moving up weight divisions seeking further glory. A former champion at 105, 108, and 112 pounds, he made an impressive super flyweight debut in 2016 by handing Carlos Cuadras his first defeat.

His history with Japan adds an intriguing element to this new chapter. Having fought there nine times previously – with four of those fights happening between 2013 and 2014 – it’s clear that Gonzalez is no stranger to Japanese soil.

The potential opponents for his upcoming bout include WBA champion Takuma Inoue and newly crowned WBO champion Junto Nakatani. The clash with Inoue offers a favorable matchup due to Inoue’s perceived lack of power and susceptibility under pressure despite size discrepancies favoring him.

On the other hand, facing off against Junto Nakatani may not be advisable given concerns about preserving Gonzalez’s well-being considering Nakatani’s recent success as the WBO titleholder.

Stay tuned for more updates as this narrative unfolds into what promises to be an enthralling journey for Chocolatito in pursuit of reclaiming boxing greatness!