| LAS VEGAS, NV (January 21, 2026) – Undefeated lightweight Kaipo Gallegos (10-0-1, 8 KOs) is locked in and ready to kick off 2026 as he prepares to face fellow unbeaten Wilson Akinocho (3-0) in a 6-round showdown on Saturday, January 24, at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. The fight lands on the undercard of Raymond Muratalla vs. Andy Cruz for the vacant IBF lightweight world title, live globally on DAZN, in a blockbuster Matchroom Boxing event promoted by Eddie Hearn.
Fighting in his hometown of Las Vegas, Gallegos, who is co-promoted by Boxlab Promotions and Shuan Boxing, is eager to continue climbing the ranks as part of a focused 2026 campaign. Guided by his father and trainer, Jayson Gallegos, Kaipo says this training camp served as another valuable learning experience, further sharpening his skills and mindset as he continues his rise.
“There’s nothing like grinding with my dad in the gym. He knows how to push me past my limits,” said Gallegos. “Although a few opponents have changed, we’ve been locked in since my last fight. We’re chasing greatness together, and this fight is another step on that path.”
Despite Akinocho’s undefeated status and late notice, Gallegos remains laser-focused on the task at hand and confident in his preparation. “I respect anyone who gets in that ring, and Akinocho is a hungry fighter looking to make a name for himself, I’m not taking him lightly by any means,” continued Gallegos. “He’s confident, just like I was a few fights ago. But I’ve been tested. I’ve fought under pressure. He hasn’t felt what I’m going to bring to him. There are levels to this game.”
Gallegos knows that a dominant showing on a high-profile card could be the launchpad he needs to enter the title conversation. “I had a great year in 2025 and a win here, against an undefeated fighter, will kick start 2026 in the right direction,” he explained. “I’m not just trying to win…I’m trying to take over l. People are gonna see that I belong with the best, and I’m ready for the big names, big fights, and big moments. That mission continues Saturday night.”
Fighting in front of his Las Vegas supporters under the bright lights of DAZN is a moment Kaipo has been thinking of. “This is a great chance to show my fans what I’m about in person, fighting at home, in Vegas, on a world title card, and live on DAZN,” Gallegos concluded. “I’ve got my people in the building, my city behind me, and I’m going to give them a great performance. I’m not just showing up, I’m showing out.”
Boxlab Promotions President Amaury Piedra believes Gallegos is ready to make a strong run in 2026 and expects the lightweight standout to make a serious statement on January 24. “Kaipo has already proven he’s one of the brightest rising stars in the U.S.,” said Piedra. “He brings a rare combination of talent, power, and focus that you only see in future champions. With the hometown crowd behind him and the spotlight of a global DAZN audience, we expect Kaipo to deliver a stellar performance. He’s ready to seize this moment against another undefeated fighter.”
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