Phoenix, Arizona – Emanuel Navarrete (39-2-1, 32 KOs) and Rafael Espinoza (26-0, 22 KOs) successfully defended their titles in a night of rematches in which both fighters performed better than the original.
Navarrete decisively defeated Oscar Valdez (32-3, 24 KOs), dropping him three times in six rounds. Connecting a devasting body shot in the 6th round that sent Valdez to the canvas and out for the full ten count.
Espinoza and Robeisy Ramirez (14-3, 9 KOs) boxed for six rounds in what was a tight contest. In the 6th round, Ramirez signaled to the ref he couldn’t continue due to his right eye bothering him. Upon medical evaluation, it was discovered Ramirez suffered a broken orbital bone.
Debatably, both boxers claim the injury was caused by a punch or an elbow, with Ramirez claiming the latter. After the fight, Ramirez said, “He got me with his elbow twice in the fourth round. That’s when I started to see double. I told the referee. He did his job. He scolded him, but the damage had been done already.”
In post-fight interviews, Espinoza stated he felt the injury was the result of a punch and not an elbow. He feels Ramirez was being overwhelmed with his pressure and power. There was small difference in total punches landed with Espinoza landing 58 to Ramirez’s 53 (Compubox). It was a much more technical match than the first as exchanges were much more limited. Espinoza was able to connect the jab at distance as he applied pressure.
Navarrete stated in post-fight interviews that he intends to explore his options for future bouts. Whether that means staying at 130 or 135, he will lean on the decision that is best for him, as, according to him, he’s reached the second stage of his career.
A stage whereby he intends to be the best version of himself and seek the best fights. Navarrete, in the past, has struggled with making weight and poor conditioning. In the rematch against Valdez, we saw what Navarrete can do when he’s at his best.
He also recovered from a left-hand injury that allowed him to land harder punches. Navarrete commended Valdez for his warrior spirit and feels he still has a lot to offer. As to what’s next for Valdez remains to be seen as the 33-year-old suffered his third loss of his career. One to Shakur Stevenson and two to Navarrete.
As for Espinoza, he did not clearly state that he would up a division to 130. When asked if he intends to stay at 126 or move up to 130, as previously reported. He said, “Really, I don’t know. I am going to sit down and talk to my people. I feel good at 126, but we’ll see what they say.”
Espinoza and Navarrete embraced each other backstage and posed for pictures together. They were very cordial and friendly to each other. Navarrete stated after their brief encounter, there was genuine respect between the two, and Espinoza congratulated him on his victory and invited him to his home.
Espinoza also expressed an interest to Navarrete in possibly challenging him for his championship. A potential matchup between Navarrete and Espinoza would set up a great match between two Mexican warriors who like to put on a show. Espinoza wants to be considered one of the best in the sport, and facing Navarrete would give him the memorable matchup he seeks, earning him the respect, admiration, and love from the public.
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