On Saturday, February 25, 2023, West New York boxer Jean Pierre Valencia made waves in the New Jersey boxing scene by defeating top amateur boxer Isaiah Mack in a decision victory at Aces Boxing Club in Boonton, NJ. Valencia’s impressive performance marks him as a rising star in the sport and a force to be reckoned with in the New Jersey boxing community.
Mack, a Paterson native, had an impressive resume, including the title of reigning 156-pound open class N.J. Golden Gloves and Diamond Gloves champion, and representation of the state at the National Golden Gloves in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Mack had also been recognized by the N.J. Amateur Boxing Hall of Fame with an Athlete High Achievers award. However, Valencia, a 23-year-old native of Esmeraldas, Ecuador, was undaunted by Mack’s accolades and was determined to prove himself against one of the best boxers in the state.
From the opening bell, Valencia was the aggressor, landing hard right hands and left hooks to Mack’s head and body. In the second round, Valencia landed a powerful uppercut that knocked Mack’s head straight up, resulting in a standing eight count. Mack, who switched stances between orthodox and southpaw throughout the match, was unable to find a solution to Valencia’s relentless attacks. The judges ultimately awarded the victory to Valencia in a unanimous decision, solidifying his position as a top contender in New Jersey boxing.
After the fight, Valencia expressed his excitement and satisfaction with the win, stating, “I feel like a champion after defeating a top fighter. I could tell that the pressure that I put on him was breaking him down, but this is just the beginning. We will continue working.” Valencia, who had previously won the 165-pound novice N.J. Diamond Gloves title in 2022, now boasts an impressive record of 14-1 in his amateur career.
Valencia’s head trainer, Ryan Songalia, revealed that he and Valencia had formulated a plan to build Valencia’s popularity and fanbase by fighting the best boxers in the state. “Jean Pierre is the people’s champion because he fights everyone and everywhere,” Songalia said. “He wants to test himself against the best boxers because we believe in the work that we do. Whoever they say is the best, that is who we want to fight.” This strategy has paid off for Valencia, as he has won eight straight fights under Songalia’s tutelage.
Valencia’s busy February schedule saw him defeat Delaware’s Deron Elias on February 4 in Upper Darby, PA, and Abedallah Elaiwah for the second time on February 10 in Kenilworth, NJ. His next challenge is the N.J. Golden Gloves, which begin on March 10 and run through April 15. Valencia is matched with Christopher Campbell in the semi-final round of the 165-pound open class competition. Should Valencia emerge victorious in the tournament, he will represent New Jersey at the National Golden Gloves, which take place from May 8-13 at Harrah’s Casino in Chester, PA.
Valencia’s recent victory over Isaiah Mack has cemented his place as a rising star in the New Jersey boxing community. With his impressive record and determined attitude, Valencia is sure to continue making waves in the sport and exciting fans with his performances. Boxing enthusiasts in New Jersey and beyond will be eagerly watching as Valencia competes in the N.J. Golden Gloves and beyond, eager to see what he will achieve next.
