Without a broadcast partner, Top Rank Boxing has not had things their own way in 2026. Even though they have a plentiful supply of world champions and prospects, several talents have been allowed to walk free.
They have, however, had fighters flourish on other promotions and they have still created a different kind of momentum.
That has continued with the signing of decorated former amateur star Sammy Contreras, a 21-year-old lightweight who will fight in a six-rounder against Cesar Canti on a ProBox TV show in San Bernadino, California on March 21.
The bill – at the Orange Show Convention Center – is topped by Guatemala’s super-middleweight contender Lester Martinez against Immanuwel Aleem, but plenty will be keeping a close eye on the upcoming Contreras.
A multi-time national amateur champion, Contreras is 5-0 (2 KOs) and in his unpaid career boxed the likes of Abdullah Mason, Benjamin Johnson and Emiliano Vargas.
At youth level, Contreras boxed for Mexico and he fought for El Salvador at the Pan Am Games of 2023 and in the 2024 Olympic qualifiers.
He is trained and managed by his dad, Sam Contreras.
“Sammy Contreras is a talented young lightweight with the ability to go very far in this sport,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum.
“His future is limitless. He has ties to multiple communities, and that will allow him to connect with a wide range of fans. Los Angeles has produced many great fighters and champions, and we expect Sammy to carry on that tradition.”
Contreras said he was delighted to put pen to paper with the promotional company.
“This moment means everything to me,” Contreras said. “All the hard work and sacrifice I’ve made every day have led me here with Top Rank. But this is only the beginning. I’m going to keep working, keep sacrificing, and continue proving that I belong here.”
