Irvington Boxer Jean Pierre Valencia Wins New York Tournament Title

NEW YORK — Jean Pierre Valencia is the new 165-pound king of New York.

The rising amateur boxing prospect from Irvington, N.J. completed a dominant sweep of the New York Tournament on Friday, July 28, scoring a devastating first round knockout of Israel Bailey in the open class finals at the Classic Car Club Manhattan at Pier 76 in New York City.

Valencia lived up to his nickname of “El Verdugo de Esmeraldas,” crumpling the much larger Bailey of The Bronx with a left hook about two minutes into the round. Bailey rolled around for a moment before rising to his feet on unsteady legs, and was put back on the canvas by another hook. This time, referee Ernesto Rodriguez called a halt to the bout at the 2:43 mark.

“I dedicate this victory to my corner and my family and thank them because they have always been there. Without them it would not be possible,” said the 23-year-old Valencia, who was cornered by head trainer Ryan Songalia and conditioning coach Aaron Watson.

“We will continue to dominate. It’s Verdugo time!”

Valencia, who was born in Esmeraldas, Ecuador and raised in Barcelona, Spain, has had an impressive run since relocating to the United States a year ago, winning the 2022 N.J. Diamond Gloves novice title, the 2023 N.J. Golden Gloves open class title and earning bronze at the 2023 National Golden Gloves.

Valencia began his New York tournament run on July 21, battering former New York Ring Masters champion Jeminie Ramirez to a third round stoppage in the semifinal round. Some felt Bailey could be a real threat to the more experienced Valencia after Bailey scored a highlight reel second round knockout of Papa Ndiaye in his own semifinal bout, but Valencia opened eyes by scoring a quick victory over a fighter who had made it to the Ring Masters finals earlier in the year.

“Jean Pierre works harder than any amateur I’ve ever been around, and his desire to win is unmatched. Getting the top ranked boxers in the ring with him is a challenge in itself, but I truly believe Jean Pierre is the best amateur boxer at his weight in the country,” said Songalia.

Valencia’s amateur record now rises to 21-2 as Valencia turns his attention towards the future. Songalia says the plan is to have Valencia compete at the New Jersey Diamond Gloves again this year before making another run at the Golden Gloves and then embarking on a professional career.