The wait is almost over for firefighter stablemates UCA Middleweight Alberto Torres, CAL FIRE – Santa Cruz, and UCA Super Cruiserweight Pierce Thomas, Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District. After waiting more than a year for their opportunity, both fighters will finally make their highly anticipated UCA ring debuts on October 24, 2026.
Torres and Thomas are deep into training camp at Cayuga Boxing Gym in Citrus Heights under the guidance of Coach Shawn Porghavami. The gym carries a special meaning, it was named in memory of Dylan Cayuga, a promising young fighter Shawn trained from age 10 to 18 who compiled a 15-0 amateur record before tragically passing away at 18. When Shawn opened the gym in 2020, he named it after Dylan to honor his memory and keep his fighting spirit alive.
With 76 days until the NorCal Battle of the Badges, Alberto and Pierce are putting in the work to be ready when the opening bell rings at the Rock & Brews Restaurant & Bar Outdoor Venue in Sacramento. They’ll be representing their fire departments, their gym, and everyone who helped prepare them for this moment.