Local boxer Hulian Lugo prepares for bout at National Golden Gloves

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO/WQRF) — There’s no shortage of great boxing talent in the Rockford area, and 20-year-old Hulian Lugo of Patriots Boxing Club is quickly climbing his way to the top as one of the best.

Lugo won the Chicago Golden Gloves tournament last weekend for the second-straight year. He boxes in one of the most competitive weight divisions at 139 pounds.

His win qualifies him for the National Golden Gloves tournament next month in Detroit, Michigan.

Lugo has no shortage of nationals’ experience, but he fell short last year in the quarterfinals of the Golden Gloves.

Him and his head trainer Jimmy Goodman have been working hard over the last 12 months and he feels that this is his year to bring that national belt back to the Stateline.

“It’s really cool,” said Lugo. “It’s a confidence booster for sure, but our goal is a national , so I would say the jobs not finished.”

“I feel like from last year I’ve gained a lot of experience. I went to a lot of national tournaments last year. So, I feel like coming back this year, I’m coming in with a lot of experience and just a better attitude and I really think I can take it home this time.”

Goodman feels the same way. This team wouldn’t be happy with any other result than a win next month.

“To win it [Chicago Golden Gloves] back to back, you know, that’s a huge accomplishment for Hulian,” said Goodman. “You know, we’re super proud of him here at Patriots. We just want to keep getting better and winning more tournaments and then eventually, hopefully turn pro later on this year.”

Obviously, a lot goes into that decision to become a professional boxer, and a win at nationals would definitely get Lugo more attention.

The national tournament runs from May 12-18.

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