Dante Kirkman Set to Make Southern California Debut Against Power Puncher Wesley Vanderlinden on October 23 at Fight Club OC
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 10 Oct 2025
COSTA MESA, CA (October 9, 2025) – Undefeated middleweight prospect, Dante “The Inferno” Kirkman (5-0, 2 KOs), will step into the ring for his Southern California debut on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at The Hangar in Costa Mesa as part of Roy Englebrecht’s long-running Fight Club OC series. Kirkman, a proud graduate of Stanford University, will face heavy-handed Simi Valley native Wesley Vanderlinden (4-1-1, 4 KOs) in a scheduled 6-round bout that marks the toughest test of his young career.
Kirkman, known for his technical precision, high ring IQ, and calm-under-fire demeanor, enters this fight riding a wave of momentum. With Vanderlinden bringing a 100% knockout ratio in his four wins, the matchup is a classic clash of styles…refined skill versus raw power, and one that is expected to deliver fireworks to the passionate Southern California boxing crowd.
While this will be Kirkman’s first appearance in Southern California, he’s no stranger to high-pressure environments, balancing world-renowned university academics and elite athletic training during his time at Stanford. Now, he’s ready to bring that same discipline and fire to Costa Mesa. “This is the fight I’ve been waiting for,” said Kirkman. “Making my Southern California debut is a big step in my journey, and I plan to put on a performance that shows I belong among the best prospects in the division.”
Kirkman has used his training camp to sharpen his fundamentals and build the kind of endurance that will allow him to dictate the pace against a dangerous puncher like Vanderlinden. “Wesley is tough, no question. He’s strong and aggressive, but I’ve prepared for that with the guidance of my trainer Eddie Croft and the support of SNAC Nutrition,” Kirkman added. “This is a chance for me to show the fans there that I can out-think and out-fight someone who brings real heat. I’m here to control the action, not react to it.”
Beyond his undefeated record, Kirkman carries with him a deep sense of pride, representing both his hometown and the values of his alma mater every time he steps into the ring. “I carry the Stanford name with me into every fight, not just the school, but what it represents…excellence, grit, and pushing past limits,” Kirkman concluded. “A win on October 23 keeps me on track toward becoming not just a great fighter, but a complete professional in and out of the ring.”
Promoted by Roy Englebrecht Promotions, Fight Club OC is widely regarded as one of the best regional boxing platforms in the country. Known for its packed cards and loyal fight fan base, the series has helped launch the careers of many West Coast fighters—and now it serves as a proving ground for Kirkman’s national rise.
The October 23 event promises to deliver another thrilling night of competitive matchups, with Kirkman vs. Vanderlinden standing out as a must-watch for fans of rising talent.
Tickets priced $75, $95, $100 and $200 are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (949) 760-3131 or online at TIX.com. The OC Fair/The Hanger is located at 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. (General Public Enter - Gate 1 off Fair Dr.) Map & Directions
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