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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), knocking him down three times in six rounds. He landed a devastating body shot in the sixth round that sent Valdez to the canvas and out for the full count of ten.
Espinoza and Robeisy Ramirez (14-3, 9 KOs) boxed for six rounds in what was a close fight. In the sixth round, Ramírez told the referee that he could not continue because his right eye was bothering him. After medical evaluation, it was discovered that Ramírez 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 hit me with his elbow twice in the fourth round. That’s when I started seeing double. I told the referee. He did his job. “He scolded him, but the damage was already done.”
In post-fight interviews, Espinoza stated that he felt the injury was the result of a punch and not an elbow. He feels that Ramírez was being overwhelmed by his pressure and power. There was a small difference in the total number of punches thrown: Espinoza landed 58 compared to 53 for Ramírez (Compubox). It was a much more technical match than the first as the exchanges were much more limited. Espinoza was able to land the jab from a distance while applying pressure.
Navarrete stated in post-fight interviews that he intends to explore his options for future fights. Whether that means staying at 130 or 135, he will lean on whichever decision is best for him as he believes he has reached the second stage of his career.
A stage in which he aims to be the best version of himself and look for the best fights. Navarrete, in the past, has had trouble gaining weight and having poor conditioning. In the rematch against Valdez we saw what Navarrete can do when he is at his best.
He also recovered from a left hand injury that allowed him to throw harder punches. Navarrete praised Valdez for his warrior spirit and feels he still has a lot to offer. It remains to be seen what’s next for Valdez, as the 33-year-old suffered the third loss of his career. One for Shakur Stevenson and two for Navarrete.
As for Espinoza, he did not clearly say that he would move up a division to 130. When asked if he intends to stay at 126 or move up to 130, as previously reported. He said: “I really don’t know. I’m going to sit down and talk to my people. I feel good at 126, but we’ll see what they say.”
Espinoza and Navarrete hugged backstage and posed for photos together. They were very cordial and friendly with each other. Navarrete stated after their brief meeting that there was genuine respect between them and Espinoza congratulated him on his victory and invited him to his house.
Espinoza also expressed interest to Navarrete in possibly challenging him for his championship. A possible showdown between Navarrete and Espinoza would create 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 duel he seeks, earning the respect, admiration and affection of the public.
