Junior welterweight contender Kenneth Sims Jr. has struggled with inactivity in recent years, but 2024 is shaping up to be a turning point for the Chicago native. 

Sims will step into the ring again on Nov. 16, facing Oscar Duarte as part of “Latino Night” during Riyadh Season at The Venue in Saudi Arabia.

After announcing himself as a serious contender with a majority decision victory over Elvis Rodriguez in 2021, Sims (21-2-1, 8 KOs) found himself on the regional fight circuit, battling to stay active. Between 2021 and 2023, Sims fought four times, including a potential Fight of the Year against Botirzhon Akhmedov that was broadcast on Showtime. This year, the 30-year-old Sims, now training in Las Vegas, signed with Golden Boy Promotions and made his promotional debut in August, stopping Jonathan Romero in five rounds.

His opponent, Mexico’s Duarte (27-2-1, 22 KOs), might have been stopped by Ryan Garcia in December 2023, but he bounced back under the guidance of trainer Robert Garcia, knocking out Joseph Diaz Jr. in his only fight of 2024. Duarte, 28, is a hard-hitting puncher, while Sims is known for his slick boxing skills, making for an intriguing clash of styles.

For Sims, this fight represents a crucial opportunity to stay active and showcase his best form.

“I’m just excited to be right back [in the ring],” Sims said. “It had been a long time, and this is two fights back to back — that's when I'm at my best, when I'm active. I just appreciate Golden Boy keeping me busy, and I’m ready to put on an amazing performance.”

Sims is well aware of the challenge that Duarte presents but is confident in his preparation and mindset. Sims also knows a win could propel him into the title picture at the top of the division

“Oscar Duarte is a tough opponent, so I got to bring my best, which I plan to do every time I step into the ring. I train like it’s the last fight I’ll ever have, so I plan to put on an amazing performance and give you guys a great show,” Sims said.