Boxing News: Saturday’s “Fiesta del Sol” In Chicago

CHICAGO, IL (July 28, 2005) – Chicago boxer David Diaz and Chicago cruiserweight prospect and NBA star Kendall Gill will attend the 33rd annual “Fiesta del Sol” celebration on Saturday, July 30th on West Cermak Road in Chicago, it was announced today by Main Events CEO Kathy Duva. Between 2:30-4:30 pm Diaz and Gill will provide open-to-the-public workouts and sign autographs to promote their upcoming August 20th bouts at the Allstate Arena on the undercard of the Fernando Vargas-Javier Castillejo junior middleweight showdown.

Diaz (27-1, 15 KOs) has stopped nine opponents within the first three rounds. The 29-year-old Chicago native is best known for defeating current world welterweight champion Zab Judah in the amateurs to earn a spot on 1996 U.S. Olympic Team. In his last bout on June 2, 2005, Diaz stopped Tyrone Wiggins in three rounds (TKO 3).

Gill (1-0, 1 KO) turned pro on June 25, 2005, stopping Trevor Biley in the opening round (TKO 1). The 6-5 Chicago native was an NBA first round draft pick in 1990. He has played for seven NBA teams and plans to return to the NBA next year.

The “Fiesta del Sol” is alcohol and tobacco-free, and is organized by members and leaders of the Pilsen community. The Pilsen neighborhood has been a port of entry to immigrants. Originally greeting European immigrants today Pilsen is a destination of choice to Mexican immigrants. The “Fiesta del Sol” began in 1972, and will take place at 1400 West Cermak Road between Throop St. & Morgan St.

Univision radio and Telemundo are the sponsors of the event.