Phoenix, Arizona – Emanuel Navarrete (39-2-1, 32 KOs) and Rafael Espinoza (26-0, 22 KOs) successfully defended their title in a rematch night that saw both fighters better than the original.
Navarrete decisively defeated Oscar Valdez (32-3, 24 KOs), dropping him three times in six rounds. Connecting a devastating body kick in the 6th round that sent Valdez to the canvas and out for the full ten count.
Espinoza and Robizi Ramirez (14-3, 9 KOs) boxed for six rounds in a very tough contest. In the 6th round, Ramirez signaled to the referee that he could not continue because his right eye was bothering him. After a medical evaluation, it was discovered that Ramirez had suffered a broken orbital bone.
Both boxers claim the injury was caused by a punch or an elbow, with Ramirez claiming it was the latter. After the fight, Ramirez said, “He elbowed me twice in the fourth round. Then I started seeing double. I told the judge. 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, not an elbow. He feels that Ramirez was overwhelmed by his pressure and power. There was little difference in total shots hit with Espinoza’s 58 to Ramirez’s 53 (Compubox). It was a much more technical match than the first one as the exchanges were much more limited. Espinoza was able to connect a long shot while applying 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 rely on the decision that is best for him as he says he has reached the second stage of his career.
The stage where he intends to be the best version of himself and look for the best fights. Navarrete has struggled with weight gain and poor fitness in the past. In the rematch against Valdez, we saw what Navarrete can do when he’s at his best.
He also recovered from an injury to his left arm that allowed him to throw more punches. Navarrete praised Valdez for his fighting spirit and believes 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 to Shakur Stevenson and two to Navarrete.
As for Espinosa, he did not make it clear that he would be moving up the division to 130. When asked if he intends to stay at 126 or move to 130 as previously reported. He said, “Really, I 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 together. They were very warm and friendly towards each other. Navarrete said after their brief encounter that there was genuine respect between the two, and Espinoza congratulated him on his victory and invited him to his home.
Espinoza also expressed interest in Navarro to possibly challenge him for his championship. A potential matchup between Navarrete and Espinosa would make for a great matchup between two Mexican warriors who love 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 is looking for, earning him the respect, admiration and love of the public.
