Before WBO junior lightweight titleholder Emanuel Navarrete and former two-weight champion Oscar Valdez (pictured) square off in their December 7 rematch at Footprint Center in Phoenix, the two joined four of Mexico’s most celebrated boxing legends – Julio Cesar Chavez Snr, Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera and Juan Manuel Marquez – for a historic on-camera roundtable.
Titled “The Final Word: Legendary Rematches of Mexican Boxing,” the half-hour special premieres November 30 at 6 a.m. ET on ESPN2. It will be available on-demand via ESPN+ and Top Rank’s YouTube channel.
Navarrete, 38-2-1 (31 KOs), and Valdez, 32-2 (24 KOs), first met in August 2023, when Navarrete earned a unanimous decision in a fight that showcased both men’s grit and skill. Their rematch is expected to add another chapter to the rich history of Mexican boxing rivalries.
In the program, the legendary panel explores the shared themes of Mexican boxing greatness and the intense preparation required for high-stakes rematches. Filmed in Mexico City, the six fighters swapped stories, traded light-hearted barbs and reflected on what defines Mexican boxing’s proud tradition.
Here’s what the icons had to say:
Julio Cesar Chavez
“Meeting with the legendary figures of Mexican boxing, who have provided us with so many unforgettable moments in the sport we love, has been an incredibly enjoyable experience. We all agree that the Mexican boxing style captivates fans the most. When two Mexican warriors face each other in the ring, it almost guarantees an unforgettable spectacle.”
Juan Manuel Marquez
“I had the privilege of sitting with great legends of Aztec boxing to discuss some of the iconic rematches in Mexican history. We explored the rivalries that arise when Mexican warriors face each other or fighters from different nationalities. A thrilling war is always guaranteed. That will be evident on December 7 when Navarrete and Valdez meet in a rematch that will keep us on the edge of our seats.”
Erik Morales
“Some of the great champions of Mexican boxing met to discuss the rematch between Valdez and Navarrete and other memorable rematches in Aztec boxing history. It was a wonderful meeting. Opportunities to come together and discuss boxing like this are rare. I’m confident fans will enjoy it.”
Marco Antonio Barrera
“I was thrilled to reconnect with these great champions. It’s been a while since we’ve gathered like this. It felt like a reunion of the past, present and future of Mexican boxing. Words can’t express how happy I was. It was extraordinary.”
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