Julian Lugo to Make Pro Boxing Debut Saturday
The 23-year-old Rockford native will face Anthony Steele in a 154-pound match.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Boxing
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Rockford Patriots Boxing Club standout Julian Lugo is set to make his professional debut at the Hard Rock Casino Rockford on October 31, 2026. He will compete against Kalamazoo boxer Anthony Steele in a 154-pound bout.
Why it matters
Lugo enters the professional ranks following an amateur career that included four Illinois Golden Gloves titles and a bronze medal at the national Golden Gloves.
Lugo competes at 154 pounds and was matched with his opponent shortly before the event due to difficulties finding challengers. The boxing card features a title bout between Eric Emory and Anthony Mancilla for the Illinois Featherweight title.
The players
Julian Lugo
He is a 23-year-old boxer and four-time Illinois Golden Gloves champion from the Rockford Patriots Boxing Club.
Anthony Steele
He is a boxer based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, who is scheduled to face Lugo in his professional debut.
Deontae Pettigrew
He is a heavyweight boxer who holds the WBA Fedelatin Heavyweight Title.
Hitz Boxing
This organization is the promoter for the Rock the Ring: Halloween Havoc event.
The details
The event, titled Rock the Ring: Halloween Havoc and promoted by Hitz Boxing, takes place at 7801 E. State St. The card also features Deontae Pettigrew, who recently secured the WBA Fedelatin Heavyweight Title in Argentina.
Timeline
2022: Julian Lugo graduated from Harlem High School.
October 2026: Deontae Pettigrew won the WBA Fedelatin Heavyweight Title.
October 26, 2026: Lugo attended a press event for the fight.
October 31, 2026: Julian Lugo makes his professional boxing debut.
Season Trajectory
This debut marks the latest professional transition from the Illinois Golden Gloves circuit into the regional pro ranks. It also helps solidify the competitive card at the Hard Rock Casino Rockford as local fighters look to move up the professional ladder.
The event starts at 6 p.m. at the Hard Rock Casino Rockford. Attendees can expect a full card of matches, including the featherweight title bout between Eric Emory and Anthony Mancilla.
The takeaway
Lugo arrives on the professional scene with a significant amateur pedigree from the Rockford Patriots Boxing Club. Fans should note that the match was finalized late due to scheduling challenges with prospective opponents.
Further reading
For more local combat sports coverage, visit the Boxing section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Rock River Current - Illinois - Wisconsin.
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