Phoenix, Arizona – Emanuel Navarrete (39-2-1, 32 KOs) and Rafael Espinoza (26-0, 22 KOs) successfully defended their titles in a rematch night where both fighters performed better than the first.
Navarrete defeated Oscar Valdez (32-3, 24 KOs), knocking him out three times in six rounds. Connecting a nasty shot in the 6th round that sent Valdez to the canvas and out for a full ten count.
Espinoza and Robeisy Ramirez (14-3, 9 KOs) went six rounds in a tight contest. In the 6th round, Ramirez showed the referee that he could not continue because of his right eye that was bothering him. Upon medical examination, Ramirez was diagnosed with tuberculosis fractured orbital bone.
Controversially, both boxers said the injury was caused by a punch or elbow, which Ramirez disputed. After the fight, Ramirez said, “He elbowed me twice in the fourth round. That’s when I started seeing double. I told the referee. He did his job. She scolded him but the damage has already been done.”
In post-fight interviews, Espinoza said he felt the injury was the result of a blow and not an elbow. He feels that Ramirez was overwhelmed by the pressure and his power. There was little difference in total punches with Espinoza landing 58 to Ramirez’s 53 (Compubox). It was a more technical game than the first one as the exchanges were very limited. Espinoza was able to connect a long jab while applying pressure.
Navarrete said in post-fight interviews that he intends to explore his options for future fights. Whether that means staying at 130 or 135, he will depend on the decision that is best for him, as, according to him, he has reached the second stage of his career.
The stage where he aims to be the best version of himself and wants to fight the best. Navarrete, in the past, has had trouble making weight and poor form. In the rematch against Valdez, we saw what Navarrete can do when he is at his best.
He also recovered from a left injury that left him with heavy punches. Navarrete praised Valdez for his heroic spirit and feels he has more to offer. As for what’s next for Valdez, it remains to be seen as the 33-year-old suffered the third loss of his career. One to Shakur Stevenson and two to Navarrete.
As for Espinoza, he did not specify whether he would increase the category to 130. When asked if he is willing to stay at 126 or move up to 130, as previously reported. He said, “Really, I don’t know. I’m going to sit down and talk to my family. I feel good at 126, but we’ll see what they say.”
Espinoza and Navarrete hugged backstage and took pictures together. They were very friendly and accommodating. Navarrete said that after they met for a while, there was a real respect between the two, and Espinoza congratulated him on his victory and invited him to his home.
Espinoza also expressed interest in Navarrete by challenging him with his prowess. A potential matchup between Navarrete and Espinoza would set up a great matchup between two Mexican fighters who love to put on a show. Espinoza wants to be considered one of the best in the sport, and facing Navarrete will give him the memorable matchup he’s looking for, earning him respect, admiration, and public adoration.
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