Grand Rapids native and undefeated lightweight star Joshua “JJ” Pagan’s hometown debut set for Jan. 22 has been postponed to Feb. 10.
Pagan announced in a social media post that the fight date was the only change in his upcoming NABO Lightweight Title defense against Nicarargua’s Bryan Jimenez (18-2, 10KOs).
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Tickets that were already purchased for the bout taking place at GLC Live at 20 Monroe in Grand Rapids will still be valid for the new fight date.
Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions can be purchased on Ticketmaster’s website.
The bout marks Pagan’s first fight since his breakthrough victory on October 23 in Puerto Rico, where he delivered a career-defining performance against Maliek Montgomery to capture the NABO Lightweight Championship.
The win instantly elevated Pagan from an undefeated prospect to a legitimate force in the lightweight division and now he brings that momentum home.
“JJ’s victory in Puerto Rico wasn’t just impressive, it was a line in the sand for the lightweight division,” said promoter and President of Salita Promotions, Dmitriy Salita. “He showed championship poise, discipline, and the ability to dominate under pressure. Defending his NABO title at home against a tough, experienced fighter like Jimenez is the perfect next step. Grand Rapids is about to witness a star rising in real time.”
The Grand Rapids native currently ranked No. 12 by the WBO, known for his sharp timing, disciplined footwork and ability to dictate pace, showed controlled execution throughout his last bout against hard-hitting Maliek Montgomery.
Pagan limited Montgomery’s forward pressure, maintained accuracy in exchanges and closed the late rounds with measured composure.
The win marked the 14th of his career and his fifth by knockout, reinforcing his progression through longer championship-distance bouts and elevating him within the NABO rankings ahead of his first hometown appearance.
Jimenez is coming into the fight fresh off a victory over Israel Lopez by unanimous decision.
Earlier in his career, Jimenez compiled a series of victories, including a unanimous decision win over Franco Gutierrez and a TKO against Manuel Azofeifa, demonstrating power and versatility across multiple weight classes.
Jimenez’s experience in extended bouts and willingness to mix it up make him a credible test for any rising contender.
Following an order from the World Boxing Council, the WBC Super Featherweight World Championship between #1-ranked Delfine Persoon and No. 2-ranked Caroline Veyre will take place as the co-main event of the evening.
The bout promoted by Salita Promotions, will be contested for the vacant WBC World Championship previously held by Alycia Baumgardner.