Juanmita López De Jesús, the son of Puerto Rican boxing legend Juan Manuel López, is set to make his professional debut on February 14 at Madison Square Garden. Influenced deeply by his father, López De Jesús aims to bring a fresh yet familiar style to the ring, blending agility and power. Having represented Puerto Rico in the 2024 Olympics, he is prepared for the transition from amateur to professional boxing, inspired by both his father’s advice and the legacy of Puerto Rican boxing giants.

Embracing the Legacy of a Boxing Icon

López De Jesús grew up immersed in boxing, born when his father made his own professional debut. The sport has been an integral part of his life since childhood. With a father who achieved world champion status twice, López De Jesús views him as a superhero and primary source of inspiration. His father’s guidance has been invaluable, especially as he moves into the professional realm. Understanding that the two levels of boxing are vastly different, López De Jesús is mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.

The influence of his father extends beyond just boxing technique. López De Jesús has always looked up to Juan Manuel López, drawing strength and motivation from his achievements. He recalls how his father often compares himself to Superman, emphasizing the importance of learning from every experience. This admiration has shaped López De Jesús’s approach to training and competition. His father has imparted wisdom about the nuances of professional boxing, stressing the need for patience, strategic thinking, and adaptability. As López De Jesús steps into the professional ring, he carries forward this legacy while striving to establish his own identity in the sport.

Aiming for Greatness with Puerto Rican Pride

Beyond personal aspirations, López De Jesús represents the pride of Puerto Rico. He competed in the 2024 Olympics, where he faced some of the world’s top fighters. Despite losing to Uzbekistan’s Hasanboy Dusmatov, López De Jesús remains determined to prove his mettle in the professional arena. His ultimate goal is not only to become a world champion but to be recognized as one of the best Puerto Rican fighters ever. Inspired by legends like Félix Trinidad, Tito Trinidad, and Miguel Cotto, he dreams of walking the streets of Puerto Rico as a revered figure.

López De Jesús is committed to seizing every opportunity that comes his way. Unlike missed matchups in his father’s career, such as the anticipated fight with Yuriorkis Gamboa, López De Jesús plans to challenge the best fighters in the rankings. He understands the importance of facing top-tier opponents to validate his skills and build a formidable reputation. His ambition is fueled by a desire to honor his heritage and inspire future generations of Puerto Rican boxers. With unwavering dedication and the support of his family, López De Jesús is poised to leave an indelible mark on the sport of boxing.