Andy Vences-Casey Ramos fight headlines TI boxing card

Top Rank will start the Manny Pacquiao-Jessie Vargas weekend with a “Solo Boxeo” card Friday at TI.

Undefeated lightweight prospects Andy Vences (16-0, 10 knockouts) and Casey Ramos (23-0, 6 KOs) will fight in the 10-round main event for the vacant WBO Continental Americas title.

Vences, from San Jose, California, said the winner will move on to bigger fights.

“It’s the biggest fight of my career and is a great opportunity for me to show my talent,” Vences said. “I know a win (Friday) will open a lot of doors for me.”

Vences, 25, is a rising contender with knockout power. Ramos, 27, from Austin, Texas, has the edge in experience and can frustrate opponents with his crafty skills in the ring.

“There comes a time in a boxer’s career when he must step up, and this is my time to do it,” Vences said. “I know Ramos is an experienced guy with boxing skills, but I believe that I am ready for him. It’s my time to shine and prove myself to the boxing world.”

Exciting prospects Jesse Hart and Alex Saucedo will be showcased on the undercard.

Hart (20-0, 16 KOs) takes on Andrew Hernandez (15-4-1, 6 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight bout. Saucedo (22-0, 14 KOs) faces Ray Serrano (23-1, 9 KOs) in a eight-round junior welterweight match.

The first bell is scheduled for 6:15 p.m., with the TV portion at 8 on Unimas and Univision Deportes Network. Tickets start at $50 and can be purchased at treasureisland.com.

Contact Gilbert Manzano at gmanzano@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0492. Follow @gmanzano24 on Twitter.