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03/06/2004 Archived Entry: "Oliveira is gatekeeper of welterweight division"
Oliveira is gatekeeper of welterweight division
Press Release
PROVIDENCE – Former world junior welterweight contender “Sucra” Ray Oliveira’s 13-year professional career is coming to a close in 2004. With close friend Vinny Paz working in his corner as head trainer, Oliveira (46-9-2, 22 KOs) is hoping to make some noise before he finally hangs up his gloves for good.
Oliveira, of New Bedford (MA), is the former IBU welterweight, two-time NABF super-lightweight, New England lightweight, and IBF Intercontinental light welterweight champion. Ray is well known for being involved in several fights that registered among the highest for most punches thrown.
Oliveira with Paz
“I’m comfortable at 147,” Oliveira said, “stronger and a more powerful puncher as a welterweight. I’m willing to take on anybody, anytime, anywhere. But I’m done after this year.”
“Sucra” holds victories against former world champions Charles Murray (twice) and Vince Phillips, in addition to being the only fighter to defeat present WBA super lightweight title-holder “Vicious” Vivian Harris.
“If any of these so called hot prospects want to test themselves against a proven warrior,” Oliveira’s promoter Jimmy Burchfield offered, “let them get in the ring for 10 rounds with ‘Sucra.’ (Kermit) Cintron, (Ishe and Chris) the Smiths, (Carlos) Quintana…..any of them. Then everybody will see what they’ve got. Ray’s never turned down a legitimate fight. We’d like to see him go out with a bang.”
