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Philippines, 22 May 2026 |
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Dante Kirkman Dominates DePriest Johnson in Unanimous Victory at Fight Club OC PhilBoxing.com Sun, 14 Dec 2025  Stanford University Grad Closes out 2025 Undefeated PALO ALTO, CA (December 13, 2025) – Undefeated middleweight prospect and Stanford University graduate, Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (7-0, 3 KOs), delivered another commanding performance this past Thursday night, scoring a unanimous decision victory over the tough and durable DePriest Johnson at The Hangar as part of Roy Englebrecht’s acclaimed Fight Club OC series. The judges scored the 6-round bout cleanly 60-53 across the board in Kirkman's favor, marking his seventh straight professional win and solidifying his growing reputation as one of boxing’s most promising young prospects. From the opening bell, Kirkman showcased a polished blend of technical precision, athletic dominance, and ring IQ, dictating the pace of the fight with sharp jabs, intelligent movement, and relentless body work. Johnson, known for his grit and durability, struggled to keep up with the 24-year-old’s tempo as Kirkman pressed forward with confidence and control. In the sixth and final round, Kirkman sealed his dominant performance by dropping Johnson with a relentless barrage of punishing body shots, followed by a vicious flurry of punches to the head, igniting a roar from the crowd at The Hangar. Johnson beat the count and survived the round, but the damage had been done. It was the exclamation mark on a night that belonged entirely to “The Inferno.” “This was exactly the kind of performance I wanted to deliver,” said Kirkman on scoring a unanimous win with an electrifying performance. “I’ve worked hard to not just win, but to excite and leave no doubt. From the moment the first bell rang, I knew I could take control. I wanted to show people that I’m not just another undefeated fighter padding a record — I’m here to make a real statement.” “Finishing the year 7-0 feels great, especially with the momentum we’ve built,” he added on closing out 2025 undefeated and staying busy. “I’ve stayed active, stayed in the gym, and that’s been the key. I'm excited about my growing fan base in Los Angeles, and this was exactly the kind of performance I wanted to deliver for them. I believe these formative years are where the habits are made. Every fight, every round, every sparring session — it all adds up.” On what this win did for his career and how he wants to continue the momentum into 2026 Kirkman stated, “Beating a guy like Johnson, tough, experienced, and ring savvy, adds another layer to my development. Each win is a building block, and this one reinforced that I can break opponents down systematically. Going into 2026, I want to elevate. Step up the competition, get on more televised cards, and keep refining my craft. This isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the journey and evolving into the best version of myself inside and outside the ring.” On when he wants to return to the ring Kirkman concluded saying, “Ideally, I’d like to be back in the first quarter of 2026, late February or early March would be perfect. My body feels good, I’m healthy, and my mind is sharp. The team and I will sit down, review the options, and plot out the next steps. But believe me, the fire is burning hotter than ever.” Kirkman, who earned his nickname “The Inferno” for both his cerebral intensity and scorching body attacks, continues to turn heads not just for his physical gifts, but for his poise and discipline outside the ring. With a degree from Stanford and a mind wired for strategy, Kirkman is proving to be the kind of athlete who can lead boxing into its next era. As 2026 approaches, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see what’s next for this rising star. One thing is certain — Dante Kirkman has arrived, and he’s just getting started.  |
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