Yuma boxer Erick ‘Panterita’ Gutierrez set to fight in Atlantic City

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - For Yuma native Erick "Panterita" Gutierrez, boxing has always been more than just a sport. It's a calling.

Now, at 21 years old, the young fighter is preparing for the biggest opportunity of his career as he travels across the country to compete in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

"It's my first time traveling this far, and it's really exciting for me," Gutierrez said. "I think it's a great opportunity, so I said, 'Yeah, let’s take it.'"

Gutierrez, who trains out of Yuma Fight Academy, has built an impressive 7-1-1 record as a professional. Known for his relentless pace and balanced style, he's earned a reputation as one of Arizona's most promising up-and-coming fighters.

But beyond the ring, this fight means something deeper, a chance to show what Yuma athletes are capable of on a national stage.

"I believe I'm carrying the city on my back," Gutierrez said. "It's awesome to show that even coming from a small town like Yuma, we've got big talent too."

Born and raised in Yuma, Gutierrez's passion for boxing started early. He was just 10-years-old when he first stepped into the gym after watching legendary fighters like Canelo Álvarez, Floyd Mayweather, and Manny Pacquiao with his dad.

"I told my dad I wanted to be like them," Gutierrez recalled. "He took me to the gym I still train at today, and since then, I've never stopped."

That dedication has taken him far, including training sessions with world-class boxers. Recently, Gutierrez sparred with a world undisputed fighter, an experience he says pushed him to a new level.

"Those kinds of experiences take me to another level...they make me better every day," he said.

Currently ranked 12th nationally in his division, Gutierrez knows what’s at stake in this next fight. A win could propel him into the top eight and closer to his ultimate goal.

"My mentality right now is I want to become a world champion," he said. "If I win this fight, I could be top eight or even top five."

But even as he looks ahead to bigger stages, Gutierrez remains grounded in his roots. He hopes his journey inspires other local athletes to chase their dreams, no matter where they come from.

"Just keep training, keep showing up to the gym, and take every opportunity," he said. "There's no losing...it's all experience."

Gutierrez's upcoming bout marks not just a career milestone, but a proud moment for Yuma's tight-knit boxing community, a symbol that small-town fighters can make a big-time impact.