Dan Rafael, ESPN Senior Writer 9y

Golden Boy signs unbeaten Teixeira

Undefeated Brazilian junior middleweight Patrick Teixeira has signed a promotional contract with Golden Boy Promotions, the company announced on Monday.

"Today is a very special day for my professional career," Teixeira said. "My dream was to sign with Golden Boy Promotions and get to know [Golden Boy president] Oscar De La Hoya. I know that more opportunities will open up as a result of my signing on to the exclusive roster of fighters at Golden Boy Promotions and they will guide my career down the right path in order to give great performances for all my fans."

The 24-year-old Teixeira (24-0, 20 KOs), a pro since 2009 but largely untested, has fought primarily in Brazil with three of his fights taking place in the United States and four in Mexico.

"American fans unfamiliar with the hard-hitting power and one-punch knockout potential of Patrick Teixeira will soon know his name -- and so will his opponents," Golden Boy president Oscar De La Hoya said in announcing the signing. "We look forward to a long relationship with Patrick that ends with him reaching his full potential of winning a world championship belt."

De La Hoya described Teixeira as "very explosive" and having an "in-your-face style." He also compared him to Brazil's most famous fighter in recent years, former junior lightweight and lightweight titleholder Acelino "Popo" Freitas, who was known as a big hitter.

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