50 Cent, Team To Keep 'Blue Chip' Martin Active in 2015
Feb 8, 2015 • 11:36 AM ET
By Jake Donovan
Rising lightweight prospect Ryan ‘Blue Chip’ Martin enjoyed his first win of 2015, outpointing Carlos Valenzuela over six rounds Saturday evening in Hidalgo, Texas.
The win over Valenzuela was more fluid but perhaps less telling than his last test, climbing off the canvas to score four knockdowns of his own in stopping Edgar Llanes last December in Toledo, Ohio. Saturday’s fight versus the durable Mexican brawler was a near-shutout, save for a deduction in round four for excessive low blows.
“It was a win, but there are always things you can work on,” believes Martin (11-0, 6KOs), a former amateur standout in Chattanooga, Tenn. before relocating to Cleveland upon signing with 50 Cent’s SMS Promotions and turning pro in Sept. ’13. “We got this win, but my team will go back, watch tape and figure out what we need to correct for my next fight.”
His next fight is due to take place April 11 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Plans call for Martin to serve as the opening bout of an independent Pay-Per-View show topped by Orlando Salido in a 130 lb. title defense versus former titlist Roman Martinez.
“Get more rounds and more competitive fights. Stay active, that's the main key,” insists Martin.
A win in April could lead to an even quick ring turnaround. Martin is tentatively penciled for a possible spot on the undercard of the spring clash between Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and James Kirkland, who—like Martin—is promoted by 50 Cent.
Jake Donovan is the Managing Editor of BoxingScene.com, as well as a member of Transnational Boxing Ratings Board and the Boxing Writers Association of America. Twitter: @JakeNDaBox
Jake Donovan is an award-winning journalist who served as senior writer for BoxingScene from 2007-2024, and news editor for the final nine years of his first tour. He was also the lead writer for The Ring before his decision to return home.
