Jesse Hart will face Gilberto Ramirez in a rematch this Saturday night (Photo: Mikey Williams – Top Rank)

By Chris Robinson

This Friday night, inside of the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, TX, once-beaten supermiddleweight contender Jesse “Hollywood” Hart will look for revenge vs. the division’s WBO champion, Gilberto “Zuro” Ramirez.

In September of last year, Ramirez (38-0, 25 KO’s) dropped Hart in the first round and went on to win a unanimous decision despite the Philadelphia fighter storming back to make things competitive. Hart knows he is likely going to need a career-defining performance to turn the tables and that’s what he is banking on.

“Camp was great,” Hart stated during an open media workout. “It was real tough because I did things l never did before. I chopped wood for the first time. I climbed rope. Going into camp this time, I was in tremendous shape. I didn’t take any time off after my last fight. I knew the rematch was looming, so I stayed hungry and ready to go. After I win this title, I’m definitely going to take a vacation and spend time with my daughter and my family.”

Hart was one of the most sought-after Olympians in 2012 and under Top Rank he had a steady rise with his career. The Ramirez loss is his only setback to date and he admits that another fight vs. his Mexican counterpart has been on his mind for a while.

“Right after the decision, I wanted to fight Gilberto again,” Hart stated. “When you look at all of his opponents, I was his only opponent that came close to beating him. He’s fought a lot of credible guys, but no one came as close as me. I’ve never been more ready for a fight in my life. Gilberto Ramirez is going to see a different fighter this time around. All I can do is keep honing my craft and get better.”

The fight will air on ESPN+ and should deliver in terms of theatrics.

Chris Robinson can be reached at CRobinson@hustleboss.com