PALO ALTO, CA – Rising middleweight prospect, Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (4-0, 2 KOs), a senior at Stanford University, continued his undefeated streak this past Saturday nightat The Venue at Thunder Valley Casino Resort, delivering a dominant first-round TKO victory over Jose Cruz of El Monte, CA. The 4-round bout was part of “Thunder Showdown II”, promoted by Nasser Niavaroni of Uppercut Boxing Promotions. 

Kirkman wasted no time asserting his dominance, dropping Cruz midway through the first round with a powerful overhand right. Moments later, he sealed the victory with a crushing left hook, after landing a number of right hands sending Cruz to the canvas again, this time forcing the referee to step in and stop the contest.

“I knew I had to make a statement, and I did just that,” said Kirkman on his victory over Cruz. “Once I landed that overhand right, I could see he was hurt, so I stayed patient and set up the left hook to finish the job. It feels great to get another win, especially in such an explosive fashion.”

In addition to his victory, Kirkman made the night even more special by honoring six members of the James E. Fowler American Legion Post #264 and VFW Post 3010, providing them with tickets to enjoy the event.

“These men and women have sacrificed so much for our country, and this was my way of showing appreciation,” Kirkman said on honoring the veterans in attendance. “Having them there meant a lot to me, and I’m glad they got to enjoy a great night of boxing.”

With another dominant performance under his belt, Kirkman is already looking ahead to the future. He has plans to get right back in the ring, possibly in the spring.

“I’m ready to stay busy and keep improving,” concluded Kirkman on what’s next in his career. “The goal is to fight again soon, step up the competition, and continue climbing the ranks. I’m hoping to get back in the ring by spring. Every fight is a learning experience, and I want to keep building on my momentum.”

Photo Credit – Dylan Duncan