When you talk about Houston’s fight scene, one name rises above the rest: Darius “DFG” Fulghum. The 29-year-old super middleweight isn’t just a boxer — he’s Houston’s next great story of grit, brains, and knockout power. With a professional record of 14 wins, 1 loss, 12 KOs, Fulghum has become the fighter everyone in Texas is talking about.
From Golden Gloves to Golden Boy
Born and raised in Houston, Fulghum built his foundation as one of the top amateurs in the nation. Ranked No. 1 in the U.S. as a heavyweight and crowned 2018 National Golden Gloves Champion, he showcased technical precision, natural athleticism, and heart — a combination that’s now defining his pro career.
After competing at the 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials, Fulghum transitioned to the professional ranks and quickly became a knockout artist under the Golden Boy Promotions banner. His performances in 2024 were dominant — victories over Alantez Fox, Cristian Olivas, Vaughn Alexander, and Christopher Pearson solidified him as the fighter to watch in the 168-pound division.
A Warrior’s Mind — In and Out of the Ring
Fulghum’s nickname, “DFG” (Destined For Greatness), isn’t a slogan — it’s a mindset. Trained by Darnell Pierce and rooted in discipline from his nursing career, Fulghum’s work ethic is unmatched.
While many fighters spend their downtime resting, Fulghum splits his focus between training and giving back to Houston’s community — a licensed registered nurse and Prairie View A&M University graduate, he embodies both compassion and competitiveness.
That rare balance has made him a local hero — a fighter who can deliver a knockout in the ring and care for patients outside of it.
Rising from a Title Eliminator
In May 2025, Fulghum stepped into the toughest challenge of his career — a WBA Title Eliminator against Bektemir Melikuziev at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. What followed was one of the year’s most talked-about fights. Fulghum traded punches in a war that many fans now call a Fight of the Year contender.
Though the judges gave Melikuziev the edge, Fulghum’s performance proved he belongs among the world’s elite. His ability to remain calm under fire and adapt mid-fight reaffirmed that Houston’s best boxer is ready for championship gold.
The Road to Fort Worth — November 8, 2025
Fulghum’s comeback begins on November 8 at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, TX, live on DAZN, as part of Golden Boy’s Ortiz Jr. vs. Lubin card. Facing David “Dynamite” Stevens (15-2, 10 KOs) in a high-stakes 10-round showdown, Fulghum will look to remind the boxing world why he’s not just one of Houston’s best — he’s one of the best rising fighters in the entire sport.
With 12 knockouts in 15 bouts, expect fireworks. For Houston fans, this is more than a fight — it’s a statement that their city continues to produce world-class champions.
