Cheeky Rolly Romero stole the show at the final Tim Tszyu vs. Sebastian Fundora news conference Thursday afternoon in Las Vegas.
Rolly Romero probably isn’t the best fighter on the Tim Tszyu-Sebastian Fundora pay-per-view card Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. But he’s the most amusing.
The 140-pound titleholder has been walking around with a figure on a chain that depicts his opponent, Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, as a chihuahua. Clever way to promote the first show on Amazon Prime and get under his foe’s skin, although Cruz doesn’t seem all that bothered.
And Romero is incapable of keeping his mouth shut, which annoys some people but gets him a lot of attention. That was on full display Thursday at the final news conference before the card on Saturday.
Cruz gave his opening remarks immediately before Romero did, saying, “To this loudmouth over here, I’m here to shut his mouth and take the belt. So get ready.”
Then Romero made it clear where Cruz was coming from, insulting his challenger in his first comments.
“Everyone thinks this is going to be a difficult fight but I think it’s a very easy fight. He’s going to run into something because he’s stupid,” said Romero, who seemed to take great satisfaction from his own pointed remarks.
That jab undoubtedly made a lot of people chuckle because of its boldness, although Cruz wasn’t one of them. The typically soft-spoken Mexican didn’t hesitate to fire back with a warning.
“If he thinks I’m stupid, he’s even stupider,” Cruz said through a translator. “What does he think? That I have bandages around my eyes and I have my hands tied? If he thinks I’m just going to lay down, he’s very, very mistaken. And he’s going to realize it on Saturday night.”
Romero (15-1, 13 KOs) also had some serious, more analytical moments at the news conference.
Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) acknowledged that he doesn’t plan to deviate from his seek-and-destroy style of fighting, which has overwhelmed most of his opponents and even troubled pound-for-pounder Gervonta Davis is a close loss.
Romero responded by saying, in so many words, that Cruz is predictable.
“He’ll come over there and throw and throw and throw and throw. He does the same s— over and over again,” said Romero, the implication being that it’s not difficult to beat an opponent when you know his every move.
Of course, we’ll see whether there is any substance behind Romero’s comments or whether he’ll say anything to sell the fight and himself, as well as try to get under his opponent’s skin.
The jury is still out on how good Romero is in the ring. He has already proved that he’s effective out of it.
Tim Tszyu vs. Sebastian Fundora: Unpacking a deep, interesting card.
The Tim Tszyu vs. Sebastian Fundora pay-per-view card Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas is unusually deep even though Tszyu lost his original opponent.
Tszyu had been scheduled to defend his 154-pound title against Keith Thurman but Thurman pulled out a few weeks ago with a biceps injury, after which Fundora agreed to take the veteran’s place in the main event.
Here is a look at the featured fights on the show, including the most interesting thing about each of them.
Tim Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs) vs. Sebastian Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs)
Division: Junior middleweight (154 pounds) At stake: Tszyu’s WBO and vacant WBC titles Most interesting thing about it: I would rather have seen Tszyu defend his belt against Thurman because of Thurman’s history. However, it will be fascinating to see whether the 5-foot-8½ Tszyu can chop down his 6-5½ opponent, as Brian Mendoza did in October. Fundora seems vulnerable after his first setback but he has had success at a high level. Who wins?: Fundora’s only advantages are his height and reach, which won’t be enough against Tszyu. The beltholder will adjust to Fundora’s dimensions and break him down. Tszyu KO 8.
Rolando Romero (15-1, 13 KOs) vs. Isaac Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs)
Division: Junior welterweight (140 pounds) At stake: Romero’s WBA title Most interesting thing about it: Can Romero keep Cruz off of him? That’s the mission of everyone who faces the relentlessly aggressive Mexican, whose only loss since early in his career was a close decision against Gervonta Davis. Romero will have to use his jab and timely counter shots to get Cruz’s respect to have his hand raised. It won’t be easy. Who wins?: Romero has the power to get Cruz’s attention but not enough to deter his unusually fit, durable opponent. Cruz will outwork Romero and win a clear decision.
Erislandy Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs) vs. Michael Zerafa (31-4, 19 KOs)
Division: Middleweight (160 pounds) At stake: Lara’s WBA title Most interesting thing about it: What does Lara have left at 40? The possible future Hall of Famer from Cuba holds a major title and continues to win fights but his opposition has been suspect. Plus, he’s more willing to exchange punches with his opponents than he used to be. That presumably is the result of him losing a step in terms of his speed and reflexes. Who wins?: Lara. He isn’t what he once was but he remains as clever as ever and has retained enough of his physical tools to beat Zerafa, a good, rugged but limited fighter.
Julio Cesar Martinez (20-3, 15 KOs) vs. Angelino Cordova (18-0-1, 12 KOs)
Division: Flyweight (112 pounds) At stake: Martinez’s WBC title Most interesting thing about it: Is Angelino Cordova the real deal? The Venezuelan came out of nowhere to deliver two eye-opening performances, decision victories over one-time title challenger Axel Aragon Vega and former champ Angel Acosta. However, Martinez, making his seventh title defense, is a significant step up in opposition. Who wins?: Cordova’s impressive little run ends here. Martinez won’t overwhelm his capable opponent but he’ll wear him down with his relentless aggression and stop him.
Elijah Garcia (16-0, 13 KOs) vs. Kyrone Davis (18-3-1, 6 KOs)
Division: Middleweight (160 pounds) At stake: No major titles Most interesting thing about it: This is a significant test for Garcia. The 20-year-old prodigy has overwhelmed second-tier opponents with his ability and power, which has generated excitement. Davis is a step up for him. The 29-year-old veteran is an excellent technician with experience in big fights. And he’s tough. Only the naturally bigger David Benavidez has stopped him. Who wins?: Davis will give Garcia problems with his skillset but he doesn’t have the power to keep Garcia off of him for 10 rounds. Garcia will take him out late in the fight.
Brian Mendoza (22-3, 16 KOs) vs. Serhii Bohachuk (23-1, 23 KOs)
Division: Junior middleweight (154 pounds) At stake: No major titles Most interesting thing about it: Power vs. Power. Mendoza demonstrated the destructive nature of his punches with his brutal knockout of Fundora. And all 23 of Bohachuk’s victories have come by stoppage, which leaves little doubt about his ability to hurt opponents. Thus, this could be the most entertaining fight on the card. Don’t blink. Who wins?: Mendoza might be the more durable fighter. That will allow him to take Bohachuk’s punches and deliver his own. Mendoza by late KO.
Tim Tszyu vs. Sebastian Fundora: Unpacking a deep, interesting card.
The Tim Tszyu vs. Sebastian Fundora pay-per-view card Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas is unusually deep even though Tszyu lost his original opponent.
Tszyu had been scheduled to defend his 154-pound title against Keith Thurman but Thurman pulled out a few weeks ago with a biceps injury, after which Fundora agreed to take the veteran’s place in the main event.
Here is a look at the featured fights on the show, including the most interesting thing about each of them.
Tim Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs) vs. Sebastian Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs)
Division: Junior middleweight (154 pounds) At stake: Tszyu’s WBO and vacant WBC titles Most interesting thing about it: I would rather have seen Tszyu defend his belt against Thurman because of Thurman’s history. However, it will be fascinating to see whether the 5-foot-8½ Tszyu can chop down his 6-5½ opponent, as Brian Mendoza did in October. Fundora seems vulnerable after his first setback but he has had success at a high level. Who wins?: Fundora’s only advantages are his height and reach, which won’t be enough against Tszyu. The beltholder will adjust to Fundora’s dimensions and break him down. Tszyu KO 8.
Rolando Romero (15-1, 13 KOs) vs. Isaac Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs)
Division: Junior welterweight (140 pounds) At stake: Romero’s WBA title Most interesting thing about it: Can Romero keep Cruz off of him? That’s the mission of everyone who faces the relentlessly aggressive Mexican, whose only loss since early in his career was a close decision against Gervonta Davis. Romero will have to use his jab and timely counter shots to get Cruz’s respect to have his hand raised. It won’t be easy. Who wins?: Romero has the power to get Cruz’s attention but not enough to deter his unusually fit, durable opponent. Cruz will outwork Romero and win a clear decision.
Erislandy Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs) vs. Michael Zerafa (31-4, 19 KOs)
Division: Middleweight (160 pounds) At stake: Lara’s WBA title Most interesting thing about it: What does Lara have left at 40? The possible future Hall of Famer from Cuba holds a major title and continues to win fights but his opposition has been suspect. Plus, he’s more willing to exchange punches with his opponents than he used to be. That presumably is the result of him losing a step in terms of his speed and reflexes. Who wins?: Lara. He isn’t what he once was but he remains as clever as ever and has retained enough of his physical tools to beat Zerafa, a good, rugged but limited fighter.
Julio Cesar Martinez (20-3, 15 KOs) vs. Angelino Cordova (18-0-1, 12 KOs)
Division: Flyweight (112 pounds) At stake: Martinez’s WBC title Most interesting thing about it: Is Angelino Cordova the real deal? The Venezuelan came out of nowhere to deliver two eye-opening performances, decision victories over one-time title challenger Axel Aragon Vega and former champ Angel Acosta. However, Martinez, making his seventh title defense, is a significant step up in opposition. Who wins?: Cordova’s impressive little run ends here. Martinez won’t overwhelm his capable opponent but he’ll wear him down with his relentless aggression and stop him.
Elijah Garcia (16-0, 13 KOs) vs. Kyrone Davis (18-3-1, 6 KOs)
Division: Middleweight (160 pounds) At stake: No major titles Most interesting thing about it: This is a significant test for Garcia. The 20-year-old prodigy has overwhelmed second-tier opponents with his ability and power, which has generated excitement. Davis is a step up for him. The 29-year-old veteran is an excellent technician with experience in big fights. And he’s tough. Only the naturally bigger David Benavidez has stopped him. Who wins?: Davis will give Garcia problems with his skillset but he doesn’t have the power to keep Garcia off of him for 10 rounds. Garcia will take him out late in the fight.
Brian Mendoza (22-3, 16 KOs) vs. Serhii Bohachuk (23-1, 23 KOs)
Division: Junior middleweight (154 pounds) At stake: No major titles Most interesting thing about it: Power vs. Power. Mendoza demonstrated the destructive nature of his punches with his brutal knockout of Fundora. And all 23 of Bohachuk’s victories have come by stoppage, which leaves little doubt about his ability to hurt opponents. Thus, this could be the most entertaining fight on the card. Don’t blink. Who wins?: Mendoza might be the more durable fighter. That will allow him to take Bohachuk’s punches and deliver his own. Mendoza by late KO.
Tim Tszyu, a 154-pound titleholder, will face former 147-pound champ Keith Thurman at a catch weight of 155 pounds on pay-per-view March 30.
Premier Boxing Champions first pay-per-view show under its new deal with Amazon’s Prime Video will feature several big names.
WBO 154-pound titleholder Tim Tszyu is scheduled to face former 147-pound champ Keith Thurman at a catch weight of 155 in the main event, Premier Boxing Champions announced on Thursday. The WBO reportedly refused to sanction the matchup as a title fight.
It will be the highest profile fight in the career of Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs), who emerged as a star after victories over Tony Harrison, Carlos Ocampo and Brian Mendoza last year.
“I’ve been ready and waiting to headline a historic event like this in the U.S. for a very long time and it’s an honor that I don’t take lightly,” said Tszyu, the son of Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu.
“My father did it and was at the top of the world for a decade. Now it’s my turn. Thurman is a great fight. He’s tricky, tough and he’s mixed it with the very best the sport has seen. This is a new era now. It’s the Tszyu era.
“On March 30, everyone who tunes into this pay-per-view is going to see for themselves.”
Thurman (30-1, 22 KOs) hasn’t fought since February of 2022, when he easily outpointed Mario Barrios. That was his only fight in four-plus years.
“I’m back in action and I’m happy to be a part of this first event with PBC on Prime Video,” Thurman said. “Tszyu stands out as an exceptional fighter, and I’ve always held admiration for his performances.
“His distinctive style provides the perfect stage for me to exhibit the relentless dedication I’ve poured into training, refining my skills, and fortifying my mental game.”
Also on the March 30 card, 140-pound beltholder Rolando Romero (15-1, 13 KOs) will face Isaac Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs).
Romero won the vacant WBA title by stopping Ismael Barroso in nine rounds last May. Cruz is best known for a strong performance in defeat against 135-pound beltholder Gervonta Davis in 2021. The Mexican has won three consecutive fights since then.
“This is gonna be Rolly versus the Chihuahua in the ring on March 30. I’m gonna stay world champ and be the first superstar on Prime Video,” said Romero, who was stopped by Davis in 2022.
Said Cruz: “I’ve worked extremely hard to earn this shot. I’ve tried to fight other big names, but Rolly was the only one to step up and accept the challenge.
“He’s got power and courage, and he comes to knock you out. That’s going to make this a great fight on March 30.”
Sebastian Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs) and Serhii Bohachuk (23-1, 23 KOs) will face off in a battle of 154-pound contenders.
Fundora, who is 6-foot-5½, will be trying to bounce back from a seventh-round knockout loss to Mendoza last April. All of Bohachuk’s victories have come by knockout. He was stopped himself by Brandon Adams in 2020, after which he has reeled off five straight wins.
And WBA 160-pound champion Erislandy Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs) will take on Michael Zerafa (31-4, 19 KOs).
Lara, who has fought only once a year since 2019, was last in the ring in May of 2022. Zerafa also hasn’t been particularly active, having last fought in November 2020. He has four consecutive victories since he lost a decision to former 147-pound champ Jeff Horn in 2019.
Tim Tszyu, a 154-pound titleholder, will face former 147-pound champ Keith Thurman at a catch weight of 155 pounds on pay-per-view March 30.
Premier Boxing Champions first pay-per-view show under its new deal with Amazon’s Prime Video will feature several big names.
WBO 154-pound titleholder Tim Tszyu is scheduled to face former 147-pound champ Keith Thurman at a catch weight of 155 in the main event, Premier Boxing Champions announced on Thursday. The WBO reportedly refused to sanction the matchup as a title fight.
It will be the highest profile fight in the career of Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs), who emerged as a star after victories over Tony Harrison, Carlos Ocampo and Brian Mendoza last year.
“I’ve been ready and waiting to headline a historic event like this in the U.S. for a very long time and it’s an honor that I don’t take lightly,” said Tszyu, the son of Hall of Famer Kostya Tszyu.
“My father did it and was at the top of the world for a decade. Now it’s my turn. Thurman is a great fight. He’s tricky, tough and he’s mixed it with the very best the sport has seen. This is a new era now. It’s the Tszyu era.
“On March 30, everyone who tunes into this pay-per-view is going to see for themselves.”
Thurman (30-1, 22 KOs) hasn’t fought since February of 2022, when he easily outpointed Mario Barrios. That was his only fight in four-plus years.
“I’m back in action and I’m happy to be a part of this first event with PBC on Prime Video,” Thurman said. “Tszyu stands out as an exceptional fighter, and I’ve always held admiration for his performances.
“His distinctive style provides the perfect stage for me to exhibit the relentless dedication I’ve poured into training, refining my skills, and fortifying my mental game.”
Also on the March 30 card, 140-pound beltholder Rolando Romero (15-1, 13 KOs) will face Isaac Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs).
Romero won the vacant WBA title by stopping Ismael Barroso in nine rounds last May. Cruz is best known for a strong performance in defeat against 135-pound beltholder Gervonta Davis in 2021. The Mexican has won three consecutive fights since then.
“This is gonna be Rolly versus the Chihuahua in the ring on March 30. I’m gonna stay world champ and be the first superstar on Prime Video,” said Romero, who was stopped by Davis in 2022.
Said Cruz: “I’ve worked extremely hard to earn this shot. I’ve tried to fight other big names, but Rolly was the only one to step up and accept the challenge.
“He’s got power and courage, and he comes to knock you out. That’s going to make this a great fight on March 30.”
Sebastian Fundora (20-1-1, 13 KOs) and Serhii Bohachuk (23-1, 23 KOs) will face off in a battle of 154-pound contenders.
Fundora, who is 6-foot-5½, will be trying to bounce back from a seventh-round knockout loss to Mendoza last April. All of Bohachuk’s victories have come by knockout. He was stopped himself by Brandon Adams in 2020, after which he has reeled off five straight wins.
And WBA 160-pound champion Erislandy Lara (29-3-3, 17 KOs) will take on Michael Zerafa (31-4, 19 KOs).
Lara, who has fought only once a year since 2019, was last in the ring in May of 2022. Zerafa also hasn’t been particularly active, having last fought in November 2020. He has four consecutive victories since he lost a decision to former 147-pound champ Jeff Horn in 2019.
Weekend Review: Terence Crawford and Naoya Inoue gave us precious gifts during an unforgettable week of boxing.
A critical look at the past week in boxing
BIGGEST WINNER
Terence Crawford
To understand the magnitude of what Crawford accomplished on Saturday in Las Vegas we must consider his opponent. Errol Spence was a former Olympian, unbeaten professional with an impressive resume, No. 4 on Boxing Junkie’s pound-for-pound list (Crawford is No. 1) and a three-belt welterweight titleholder. The fight was 50-50 on paper. And Crawford made Spence look like a journeyman, outboxing him, putting him down three times and finally knocking him out in the ninth round to become the first undisputed welterweight champion in the four-belt era and the first man to be “undisputed” in a second division. It was near-perfect performance on a big stage, one that stamps Crawford as the best 147-pounder of his era and an all-time great when his previous accomplishments are also taken into account. And it came just in the nick of time. He had trouble for years luring his top welterweight rivals into the ring because of promotional rivalries, leading many to wonder whether he’d ever get a chance to prove what he could do at the highest level of the sport. He finally received that opportunity at 35, an age when most fighters have begun to decline. “I kept praying to God that I’d get the opportunity show the world how great Terence Crawford is,” he said after his victory. “And tonight I believe I showed how great I am.” Indeed he did. He was brilliant.
BIGGEST WINNER II
Naoya Inoue
We might never see a week like this past one again. On Saturday, Crawford gave us one of the best performances in recent memory. And, four days earlier, Naoya Inoue did the same thing. The Japanese star dominated and then stopped previously unbeaten 122-pounder Stephen Fulton Jr. in eight rounds in Tokyo, giving Inoue major titles in a fourth division and taking our collective breath away in the process. Inoue left no doubt that he’s one of the best ever. His combination of ability, speed and power might be unrivaled in the sport today, perhaps even by the gifted Crawford. Fulton is an excellent, proven all-around fighter and he was utterly lost against Inoue almost the entire fight, which was stunning to watch. And “The Monster” is only 30, meaning he has a lot more to give. That’s bad news for those in and around his weight. Who’s better, Crawford or Inoue? Arguments can and will be made for both men. The best way to look at it might be this: We’re fortunate to have two such great fighters on the scene at the same time. And the fact they both performed their magic only days apart last week was a true blessing.
BIGGEST LOSER
Errol Spence Jr.
Errol Spence Jr. went down three times during a disastrous night for him Al Bello / Getty Images
Spence told me about a week and a half before the fight that his showdown with Crawford wouldn’t define his career. He’s right. He was all but guaranteed a spot in the Hall of Fame going into the fight because of a six-year reign as a titleholder, pound-for-pound status and victories over the likes of Kell Brook, Mikey Garcia, Shawn Porter and other big-name opponents. At the same time, the legacy of a fighter doesn’t remain unscathed after the kind of beating Spence endured at T-Mobile Arena. Spence passed the aforementioned tests but this one, against Crawford, was by far his biggest one. And he failed it badly. He didn’t just lose; he was outclassed and ultimately pummeled, which was shocking to witness given his past success. The brutality of the beat down and the image of Spence’s bloodied, bruised face during and after the fight is now etched in our memories. Spence remains a formidable fighter, just not the best, which he aspired to be. He’ll always be seen as inferior to Crawford unless he gets the rematch he wants and somehow turns the tables on his conqueror. And most of us will agree: That’s highly unlikely. Spence would be wise to move on from Crawford and up to 154 pounds, where more success awaits him.
So long Nonito Donaire? “The Filipino Flash” might’ve fought for the last time on the Crawford-Spence card, on which he lost a unanimous decision to Alexandro Santiago in a fight for a vacant 118-pound title. The 40-year-old future Hall of Famer was competitive but he showed his age, as his 27-year-old opponent was a step ahead of him from beginning to end. Donaire inadvertently hinted that he might be slipping, saying, “There were just some times there where I didn’t pull the trigger.” That’s a classic sign of decline. He didn’t sound like a fighter who is ready to hang up the gloves in his post-fight interview but he might be wise to consider that option. How much more can he accomplish? He has already won nine major titles in four divisions over a career that has spanned more than two decades. And, again, the Hall awaits him. I’ll never forget his epic knockout of Vic Darchinyan in 2007, which opened our eyes to the fact that Donaire was a special talent and one of the most exciting fighters in the world. He maintained that reputation for another 15 years of thrills, a testament to his ability, discipline and staying power. He’ll be missed whenever he walks away.
RABBIT PUNCHES
I think an immediate Crawford-Spence rematch is all wrong for Spence and everyone else involved. You can read my thoughts on that here. I’d like to see Crawford defend his 147-pound titles against a top contender (Jaron Ennis? Vergil Ortiz? Eimantas Stanionis? Keith Thurman?) and then target undisputed 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo after Charlo loses to Canelo Alvarez on Sept. 30. That fight could take place as soon as next spring. Spence should start the rebuilding process against a fringe contender in his next fight. … Lightweight contender Isaac Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) defeated Giovanni Cabrera (21-1, 7 KOs) by a split decision in a 12-round bout on the Crawford-Spence card. Two judges had Cruz winning, 115-112 and 114-113. The third scored it for Cabrera, 114-113. The 115-112 score best reflected what happened in the ring. Cruz didn’t look spectacular but he maintained pressure on Cabrera and landed many more meaningful punches than him. According to CompuBox, Cruz had a 152-55 edge in power punches landed. I thought Cruz was in control most of the fight. That’s why I scored it 116-111 for Cruz, nine rounds to three. At least the right man won. …
Santiago’s victory over Donaire was a big step in his career. The Mexican, who turned pro at 16, outboxed a legend and took everything thrown at him to earn his first major title after failing in his first attempt, a draw with then 115-pound champ Jerwin Ancajas in 2018. The scoring on Saturday was spot on, 116-112, 116-112 and 115-113. I also had Santiago winning 116-112, eight rounds to four. Santiago could now give Donaire a rematch if the veteran wants one or target one of the two other 118-pound titleholders, Takuma Inoue and Jason Moloney. … Junior middleweight prospect Yoenis Tellez (6-0, 5 KOs) rewarded his handlers’ faith in him on the Crawford-Spence card. The 23-year-old Cuban native, now based in Houston, agreed to fight Sergio Garcia (34-3, 14 KOs) on short notice and made the most of the opportunity, stopping the Spanish veteran in only three rounds. Tellez has a lot going for him, ability, speed, power, poise. He’s one to watch. … Seniesa Estrada (25-0, 9 KOs) remained unbeaten Friday in Las Vegas, defeating Leonela Paola Yudica (19-2-3, 1 KO) by a unanimous decision in an entertaining fight. The 31-year-old strawweight titleholder from Los Angeles is one of the most consistent fighters in the world. …
News item: Former Puerto Rican star Felix Verdejo (27-2, 17 KOs) on Friday was convicted of kidnapping resulting in the death of his girlfriend and intentionally killing her unborn child in his native land. Verdejo reportedly injected her with some sort of liquid and then threw her off a bridge. He could receive a life sentence when he returns to court on Nov. 3. Tragic. … News item II: YouTubers-turned-boxers Jake Paul and KSI have announced that they will fight separate opponents on an Oct. 14 card in Manchester, England (DAZN).
Weekend Review: Terence Crawford and Naoya Inoue gave us precious gifts during an unforgettable week of boxing.
A critical look at the past week in boxing
BIGGEST WINNER
Terence Crawford
To understand the magnitude of what Crawford accomplished on Saturday in Las Vegas we must consider his opponent. Errol Spence was a former Olympian, unbeaten professional with an impressive resume, No. 4 on Boxing Junkie’s pound-for-pound list (Crawford is No. 1) and a three-belt welterweight titleholder. The fight was 50-50 on paper. And Crawford made Spence look like a journeyman, outboxing him, putting him down three times and finally knocking him out in the ninth round to become the first undisputed welterweight champion in the four-belt era and the first man to be “undisputed” in a second division. It was near-perfect performance on a big stage, one that stamps Crawford as the best 147-pounder of his era and an all-time great when his previous accomplishments are also taken into account. And it came just in the nick of time. He had trouble for years luring his top welterweight rivals into the ring because of promotional rivalries, leading many to wonder whether he’d ever get a chance to prove what he could do at the highest level of the sport. He finally received that opportunity at 35, an age when most fighters have begun to decline. “I kept praying to God that I’d get the opportunity show the world how great Terence Crawford is,” he said after his victory. “And tonight I believe I showed how great I am.” Indeed he did. He was brilliant.
BIGGEST WINNER II
Naoya Inoue
We might never see a week like this past one again. On Saturday, Crawford gave us one of the best performances in recent memory. And, four days earlier, Naoya Inoue did the same thing. The Japanese star dominated and then stopped previously unbeaten 122-pounder Stephen Fulton Jr. in eight rounds in Tokyo, giving Inoue major titles in a fourth division and taking our collective breath away in the process. Inoue left no doubt that he’s one of the best ever. His combination of ability, speed and power might be unrivaled in the sport today, perhaps even by the gifted Crawford. Fulton is an excellent, proven all-around fighter and he was utterly lost against Inoue almost the entire fight, which was stunning to watch. And “The Monster” is only 30, meaning he has a lot more to give. That’s bad news for those in and around his weight. Who’s better, Crawford or Inoue? Arguments can and will be made for both men. The best way to look at it might be this: We’re fortunate to have two such great fighters on the scene at the same time. And the fact they both performed their magic only days apart last week was a true blessing.
BIGGEST LOSER
Errol Spence Jr.
Errol Spence Jr. went down three times during a disastrous night for him Al Bello / Getty Images
Spence told me about a week and a half before the fight that his showdown with Crawford wouldn’t define his career. He’s right. He was all but guaranteed a spot in the Hall of Fame going into the fight because of a six-year reign as a titleholder, pound-for-pound status and victories over the likes of Kell Brook, Mikey Garcia, Shawn Porter and other big-name opponents. At the same time, the legacy of a fighter doesn’t remain unscathed after the kind of beating Spence endured at T-Mobile Arena. Spence passed the aforementioned tests but this one, against Crawford, was by far his biggest one. And he failed it badly. He didn’t just lose; he was outclassed and ultimately pummeled, which was shocking to witness given his past success. The brutality of the beat down and the image of Spence’s bloodied, bruised face during and after the fight is now etched in our memories. Spence remains a formidable fighter, just not the best, which he aspired to be. He’ll always be seen as inferior to Crawford unless he gets the rematch he wants and somehow turns the tables on his conqueror. And most of us will agree: That’s highly unlikely. Spence would be wise to move on from Crawford and up to 154 pounds, where more success awaits him.
So long Nonito Donaire? “The Filipino Flash” might’ve fought for the last time on the Crawford-Spence card, on which he lost a unanimous decision to Alexandro Santiago in a fight for a vacant 118-pound title. The 40-year-old future Hall of Famer was competitive but he showed his age, as his 27-year-old opponent was a step ahead of him from beginning to end. Donaire inadvertently hinted that he might be slipping, saying, “There were just some times there where I didn’t pull the trigger.” That’s a classic sign of decline. He didn’t sound like a fighter who is ready to hang up the gloves in his post-fight interview but he might be wise to consider that option. How much more can he accomplish? He has already won nine major titles in four divisions over a career that has spanned more than two decades. And, again, the Hall awaits him. I’ll never forget his epic knockout of Vic Darchinyan in 2007, which opened our eyes to the fact that Donaire was a special talent and one of the most exciting fighters in the world. He maintained that reputation for another 15 years of thrills, a testament to his ability, discipline and staying power. He’ll be missed whenever he walks away.
RABBIT PUNCHES
I think an immediate Crawford-Spence rematch is all wrong for Spence and everyone else involved. You can read my thoughts on that here. I’d like to see Crawford defend his 147-pound titles against a top contender (Jaron Ennis? Vergil Ortiz? Eimantas Stanionis? Keith Thurman?) and then target undisputed 154-pound champion Jermell Charlo after Charlo loses to Canelo Alvarez on Sept. 30. That fight could take place as soon as next spring. Spence should start the rebuilding process against a fringe contender in his next fight. … Lightweight contender Isaac Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) defeated Giovanni Cabrera (21-1, 7 KOs) by a split decision in a 12-round bout on the Crawford-Spence card. Two judges had Cruz winning, 115-112 and 114-113. The third scored it for Cabrera, 114-113. The 115-112 score best reflected what happened in the ring. Cruz didn’t look spectacular but he maintained pressure on Cabrera and landed many more meaningful punches than him. According to CompuBox, Cruz had a 152-55 edge in power punches landed. I thought Cruz was in control most of the fight. That’s why I scored it 116-111 for Cruz, nine rounds to three. At least the right man won. …
Santiago’s victory over Donaire was a big step in his career. The Mexican, who turned pro at 16, outboxed a legend and took everything thrown at him to earn his first major title after failing in his first attempt, a draw with then 115-pound champ Jerwin Ancajas in 2018. The scoring on Saturday was spot on, 116-112, 116-112 and 115-113. I also had Santiago winning 116-112, eight rounds to four. Santiago could now give Donaire a rematch if the veteran wants one or target one of the two other 118-pound titleholders, Takuma Inoue and Jason Moloney. … Junior middleweight prospect Yoenis Tellez (6-0, 5 KOs) rewarded his handlers’ faith in him on the Crawford-Spence card. The 23-year-old Cuban native, now based in Houston, agreed to fight Sergio Garcia (34-3, 14 KOs) on short notice and made the most of the opportunity, stopping the Spanish veteran in only three rounds. Tellez has a lot going for him, ability, speed, power, poise. He’s one to watch. … Seniesa Estrada (25-0, 9 KOs) remained unbeaten Friday in Las Vegas, defeating Leonela Paola Yudica (19-2-3, 1 KO) by a unanimous decision in an entertaining fight. The 31-year-old strawweight titleholder from Los Angeles is one of the most consistent fighters in the world. …
News item: Former Puerto Rican star Felix Verdejo (27-2, 17 KOs) on Friday was convicted of kidnapping resulting in the death of his girlfriend and intentionally killing her unborn child in his native land. Verdejo reportedly injected her with some sort of liquid and then threw her off a bridge. He could receive a life sentence when he returns to court on Nov. 3. Tragic. … News item II: YouTubers-turned-boxers Jake Paul and KSI have announced that they will fight separate opponents on an Oct. 14 card in Manchester, England (DAZN).
Isaac Cruz survived a pesky Giovanni Cabrera and shaky scorecards to win a split decision Saturday in Las Vegas.
Isaac Cruz almost fell victim to a bad decision.
The 135-pound contender, who pushed Gervonta Davis to his limits a few years ago, seemed to control his fight against Giovanni Cabrera but had to settle for a split-decision victory on the Terence Crawford-Errol Spence Jr. card Saturday in Las Vegas.
Two judges had Cruz winning, 115-112 and 114-113. The third scored it for Cabrera, 114-113. Boxing Junkie scored it 116-111 for Cruz, nine rounds to three.
The slick Cabrera (21-1, 7 KOs) had some success keeping his strong, swarming opponent off of him in the first few rounds by sticking, moving and sometimes holding.
However, Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) was able to close the distance by the third round and commence landing dozens of hard, eye-catching shots to both the body and head and taking little in return from the light-punching Cabrera.
Cabrera continued to pepper his shorter opponent with his jab and landed power shots here and there, enough evidently to win some rounds. He also proved to be resilient by taking everything a strong puncher threw at him.
However, Cruz won the fight because he landed many more power shots than Cabrera did.
Cruz lost a point in Round 8 for intentionally butting Cabrera. The result would’ve been a majority decision had he not been penalized.
He was baffled by the scoring.
“I don’t feel like he connected with any punches, but they are the judges, and they made the decision,” he said. “… I was superior tonight, but I do respect all of my opponents, and he was very good today.”
The 25-year-old Mexican is now 3-0 since he lost a close, but unanimous decision to Davis in December 2021, although Davis injured his hand early in the fight.
Cruz reiterated after his victory on Saturday that he wants a rematch with Davis.
Isaac Cruz survived a pesky Giovanni Cabrera and shaky scorecards to win a split decision Saturday in Las Vegas.
Isaac Cruz almost fell victim to a bad decision.
The 135-pound contender, who pushed Gervonta Davis to his limits a few years ago, seemed to control his fight against Giovanni Cabrera but had to settle for a split-decision victory on the Terence Crawford-Errol Spence Jr. card Saturday in Las Vegas.
Two judges had Cruz winning, 115-112 and 114-113. The third scored it for Cabrera, 114-113. Boxing Junkie scored it 116-111 for Cruz, nine rounds to three.
The slick Cabrera (21-1, 7 KOs) had some success keeping his strong, swarming opponent off of him in the first few rounds by sticking, moving and sometimes holding.
However, Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) was able to close the distance by the third round and commence landing dozens of hard, eye-catching shots to both the body and head and taking little in return from the light-punching Cabrera.
Cabrera continued to pepper his shorter opponent with his jab and landed power shots here and there, enough evidently to win some rounds. He also proved to be resilient by taking everything a strong puncher threw at him.
However, Cruz won the fight because he landed many more power shots than Cabrera did.
Cruz lost a point in Round 8 for intentionally butting Cabrera. The result would’ve been a majority decision had he not been penalized.
He was baffled by the scoring.
“I don’t feel like he connected with any punches, but they are the judges, and they made the decision,” he said. “… I was superior tonight, but I do respect all of my opponents, and he was very good today.”
The 25-year-old Mexican is now 3-0 since he lost a close, but unanimous decision to Davis in December 2021, although Davis injured his hand early in the fight.
Cruz reiterated after his victory on Saturday that he wants a rematch with Davis.
Is lightweight contender Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz on the path to becoming the face of Mexican boxing?
The unofficial race to become the face of Mexican boxing is on.
Super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez, the country’s biggest star over the past decade-plus, has begun to decline in the opinion of many observers. That means someone will supplant him on the coveted throne sooner rather than later.
The list of potential candidates isn’t long. Setting Alvarez and longtime star Juan Francisco Estrada aside for the purposes of his exercise, among the names that come to mind: Jaime Munguia, Emanuel Navarrete, Oscar Valdez and William Zepeda.
And, of course, there’s swarming, powerful 135-pound contender Isaac Cruz, who, at 25 and surging, might be leading the pack.
Oddly enough it was a setback that lifted “Pitbull” to his current status, his unanimous, but disputed decision against pound-for-pounder Gervonta Davis as a 23-year-old pup in December 2021. No has pushed Davis harder than Cruz, who faces Giovanni Cabrera on the Terence Crawford-Errol Spence Jr. card on July 29.
His fans back home certainly noticed, which he thought “was something beautiful” because acclaim came sooner than he expected. However, he believes he’s still in the process of winning them over.
“I don’t feel like I have the fans in my back pocket,” he told Boxing Junkie through a translator. “I have to keep grinding, keep working to get the fans on my side.”
The grinding resumes in less than two weeks, when he faces the rangy (5-foot-9) Cabrera on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Cabrera (21-0, 7 KOs) will have been Cruz’s third relatively nondescript opponent since the Davis fight, following knockouts of Yuriorkis Gamboa and Eduardo Ramirez. Cruz (24-2-1, 17 KOs) sees Cabrera as another important step toward where he wants to be.
He insists he has no issues with motivation even though much bigger fights against the top lightweights are on the horizon.
“I don’t overlook anybody,” he said. “I prepare for every fight the same way because each win is [important].”
Indeed, if he continues to have his hand raised, the super fights will come. Cruz wants a rematch with Davis first and foremost. But he also has the likes of Devin Haney, Shakur Stevenson and Vasiliy Lomachenko in his sights.
Those fights – or at least one or two of them – would give Cruz the opportunity to join the aforementioned 135-pounders as stars in the deep division, although he feels his performance against Davis should’ve have already led to that perception.
“Absolutely I should be mentioned with that group,” he said. “I faced down the monster (Davis) when I was just a nobody. I don’t feel I’m getting recognition for that. Regardless, I don’t care what people say or don’t say.
“Results speak for themselves. Eventually, inevitably I’ll be named among the best in the division.”
