Joshua Pagan could be ready for a title shot if the right opportunity presents itself, says his promoter, Dmitriy Salita.
Pagan defeated Bryan Jimenez via a 10-round unanimous decision on Tuesday night at the GLC Live at 20 Monroe in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Pagan, a lightweight, improved to 15-0 (5 KOs) and fought in his hometown for the first time as a pro. Pagan also notably served as one of the main sparring partners for Rolando Romero for his win over Ryan Garcia last May. The 26-year-old Pagan, who has headlined several cards for Salita Promotions, is now ranked No.11 by the WBO. If Pagan and his team had it their way, they’d fight for a belt next.
“If the right world title opportunity presents itself next, against one of the best names in the division, we’re ready to take that challenge,” Salita told BoxingScene. “If not, we stay the course.”
Pagan started his professional career with Salita Promotions in 2022. Since then, he has evolved into a consistent main event fighter with wins over unbeaten-at-the-time Rogey Hilley, veteran Haskell Rhodes, and promising fringe contender Maliek Montgomery, whom he stopped in October. Pagan’s win over Bryan Jimenez, 18-3 (10 KOs), served as another rugged veteran to gain experience against while in a hometown fight.
“He’s on a steady, intentional trajectory toward fighting for and winning a world title,” Salita said. “He continues to develop, face meaningful competition, and building toward that championship moment the right way.”
Salita also commented on the crowd in Grand Rapids. Salita Promotions has targeted Flint, Michigan, and Detroit, especially with their marquee fighter, Claressa Shields, hailing from the region. It appears given the success of the card, Salita will look to bring back another card to the region.
“The energy in the building reflected how much the community believes in him,” Salita said. “Pagan had a tremendous homecoming in Grand Rapids, a proud boxing city with real fight culture, and a place we absolutely want to return to.”
