As people sat at tables and slot machines trying to earn a quick buck on Saturday, Lewis Gonzales was downstairs earning his money, fighting fellow welterweight Justin Baesman at Oroville’s Gold Country Casino and Hotel.
Gonzales displayed impressive skills inside the cage in front of a packed and excited crowd, using a combination of aggression and control to finish Baesman two minutes into the first round via verbal tap out due to strikes.
“My adrenalin was running a little bit more because this was the first pro fighter that I fought that had a good record,” Gonzalez said. “This was a big step for me, beating somebody who had six professional wins and only one loss.”
Baesman’s strategy was to pressure Gonzales, immediately throwing a front kick and a handful of punches that Gonzales easily avoided. Soon after, Gonzales implemented his own game plan, taking Baesman to the ground with a single leg takedown and quickly mounting him. It was only a matter of time before a barrage of blows would bring the fight to a quick end, continuing Gonzalez’ streak of first round victories.
“It was the same game plan,” Gonzalez said. “The good thing about being a wrestler is that I can decide where the fight goes.”
Gonzalez’ next step is still unknown, but the road ahead is full of promising opportunities.
“We want to get him some European experience,” trainer Gene Fields said. “Maybe some fights in Australia or China or Japan.”
“I have to take one step at a time,” Gonzalez said. “But I want to go as far as I can.”

To contact Frankie Tovar, e-mail ftovar@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2041.