Ramirez, was among the first to join the Cristero rebellion. He was one of the few Cristeros who did not desert the fight in May of 1927. He commanded the "Fourteen Dragons" squadron, which was part of the San Julian regiment under the command of General Miguel Hernandez. His first acts as a Cristero were spoken of as legendary feats, and tradition goes that when "Callistas" (federal troops) heard the cry of "Viva El Catorce!", it struck fear in their hearts during fighting. Additionally, Ramirez also had a reputation for superb accuracy.