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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (July 30, 2025) – With a dominant performance behind him and his sights set firmly on the future, undefeated junior middleweight Anthony “ATV” Velazquez (19-0-1, 14 KOs) is shifting into high gear as he inches closer to a world ranking and potential title shot in 2026.
The 29-year-old Puerto Rican-American standout from Springfield, Massachusetts, secured his 19th professional win—and 14th by knockout—on July 19 at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, stopping the experienced Terry Chatwood (12-5-1, 6 KOs) in the fifth round.
Backed by longtime manager Gunther Fishgold, Velazquez is executing what they’ve dubbed the “ATV Plan”—a calculated strategy that calls for two more fights in 2025 (or one in early 2026) to build his resume, secure a world ranking, and position himself for career-changing opportunities.
“I felt very good, very confident in that fight,” said Velazquez. “I fought my fight, patiently breaking him down, and taking him out like I said I would. I can’t wait to get my next fight date. I’d be happy if I fought again in September; I like fighting back-to-back. The only way to get where I want to be is to stay consistent.”
Velazquez was sharp and methodical against Chatwood, showcasing continued improvement and finishing his opponent with a crisp left hook at the 2:26 mark of Round 5, moments after scoring an earlier knockdown with a precise left uppercut.
Though Velazquez believes he’s ready right now to face top contenders, he remains committed to the “ATV Plan.”
“Two more fights and I’m on it,” he said. “I feel I’m ready right now, but I’ll keep using my ring time to better execute, knowing I’ll be ready when it (breakout fight) comes. I trust my manager and respect his plan. I want to fight any of those guys in the top 10 to get more exposure from fighting in a big event. My dream is to fight at Madison Square Garden someday soon. My fans travel well—Springfield isn’t too far—and I know they’ll support me there.”
Manager Gunther Fishgold echoed the long-term focus but didn’t rule out pivoting if the right opportunity knocks.
“After watching Xander Zayas win his first world title last Saturday, I believe Anthony would be a formidable opponent for Zayas in his first title defense,” said Fishgold. “While we are planning on waiting, this is something we definitely would go for. I believe that Anthony matches up well against Zayas’ style—but if this isn’t an option, we’ll continue to build.”
With an 83.33% knockout rate, growing fanbase, and a hunger for the top, Anthony Velazquez may not be waiting long to crash into the world rankings and stake his claim as one of boxing’s next breakout stars.
Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer.
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