Robin Safar is off the Gilberto Ramirez fight lineup due to a hand injury
Boxing News, December 16, 2025 — A right-hand knuckle injury has forced cruiserweight contender Robin Safar to withdraw from his planned January 16 clash with Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. There’s chatter that Ramirez may skip that date entirely to focus on a high-profile showdown with David Benavidez on May 2.
Last Friday, Dan Rafael reported the setback, noting that Safar’s January 16 date appears unlikely, while Ramirez potentially shifts his attention to the May matchup. The following day, Safar and his manager spoke with FightsATW at the Jack vs Mikaelian 2 event in Los Angeles.
“After my last fight, I damaged a knuckle in my right hand,” Safar explained. “We’ve discussed moving the date to February, perhaps undercarding Ramirez’s appearance alongside the Ryan Garcia fight. If that can happen, it would be fantastic. If not, there are still many opportunities I can pursue. My goal is a title eliminator and ultimately a world title. I’m taking it one day at a time.”
If Ryan Garcia’s title bid against Mario Barrios proceeds on February 21, Ramirez would have just over two months to recover and ready himself for a bout against El Bandera Roja. That timeline doesn’t seem ideal. Safar, undefeated at 19-0 with 13 knockouts, has the skills to push Ramirez and adds another potential obstacle in the ring, where every minute can carry the risk of fresh injury.
What this means for Ramirez’s schedule, Safar’s next steps, and the broader implications for the crowded super-middleweight cruiserweight scene remains a topic of debate among fans and experts. Is Ramirez’ path clearer with a May showdown in mind, or does Safar’s sustained momentum merit a different matchmaking approach? Share your take in the comments: should Ramirez prioritize the blockbuster, or is Safar’s momentum worth a measured contest before stepping back into the title picture?
