rewrite this content and keep HTML tags
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Undefeated super middleweight phenom Marco “El Tiburon” Romero (7-0, 6 KOs) is set to return to the city where his professional boxing journey began—Portland, Maine. This Saturday, June 8, Romero will step into the ring at the Cross Insurance Arena for the third time, facing Nafys “The Conqueror” Garner (4-2, 3 KOs) in a scheduled six-round bout.
Just a year ago, the 19-year-old Olathe, Kansas native launched his pro career on Father’s Day weekend in Portland, stopping Jonathan Gary in the second round. He returned in October to defeat Orlando Salgado via third-round TKO, and now, Portland has become a familiar and welcoming battleground for the rising star.
“I’m more motivated than ever and couldn’t be happier to see the plan unfolding like we talked about a couple of years ago with Coach John (Brown, manager/head trainer), Uncle Al (Valenti, advisor), my father (Salvatore Romero, assistant trainer), and Sergio (Flores, assistant trainer),” said Romero.
“I’m ready and excited to be fighting again in Portland. I would love to bring a world title fight to Portland, where people appreciate good boxing. Traveling to fight is something I’m used to from my amateur days. Portland is like my second home because I’ve been treated so well there by everyone. I have big respect for Bobby Russo (promoter). He’s an amazing guy who has shown me respect from the start. He gave me my Golden Boy (Most Outstanding Boxer Award, Russo is President of the National Golden Gloves), when I won my division at the (2024) National Golden Gloves.”
Romero’s rapid rise through the ranks has been nothing short of impressive, with six of his seven wins coming by knockout. His aggressive yet calculated style, combined with nationwide appearances, is earning him a growing following.
“Marco is excited to be fighting again in his adoptive city of Portland, which has the best fight fans in America,” said head trainer John Brown. “He’s hoping to display the talents that will eventually lead him to a world title. Marco’s been lucky to fight every two months all over America, which is helping him build a national fanbase.”
Romero will look to extend his undefeated streak and continue his ascent toward championship contention in a city that has embraced him as one of their own.


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.
Discover more from FightBook MMA
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.