WBO world champion Rafael Espinoza is making a strong case to be considered the most formidable featherweight boxer currently competing. His aggressive, forward-pressing style, amplified by his imposing height, creates a powerful presence with every step forward.
This relentless style, combined with some shrewd in-ring tactics, ultimately led Espinoza, with a record of 27-0 (23 KOs), to an emphatic seventh-round stoppage victory over Edward Vazquez.
The fight took place last night at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, featured on a prominent undercard.
As anticipated, Espinoza`s constant pressure and varied attacks secured his third successful defense of his WBO title.
To his credit, Edward Vazquez (17-3, 4 KOs) started strongly, landing several looping shots over Espinoza`s relatively open guard during the initial six minutes. During this time, Vazquez, known as ‘Kid’, also managed to close the distance, unleashing short combinations inside and effectively using his compact yet powerful build.
However, Espinoza quickly disrupted Vazquez`s momentum in the third round with a sharp, stabbing right hand to the body, visibly hurting his opponent and forcing him to retreat. Seeing Vazquez compromised, the champion advanced, again targeting the midsection while also threading right uppercuts through his guard, finishing the round strongly.
The fourth round followed a similar pattern, with Espinoza delivering a punishing series of long-range attacks, his long limbs moving with fluid ease. Espinoza also utilized less conventional tactics up close, like extending his elbows, seemingly aware these potential fouls might be overlooked. Indeed, he was not reprimanded for such actions throughout the bout.
By this point, Espinoza had again hurt Vazquez to the body, then significantly increased his pace, coming dangerously close to securing an early finish. His footwork, remarkably dynamic and robust despite his lanky build, provided a constant stability to his movements.
Following two more rounds of powerful uppercuts and punishing body blows, Espinoza launched a furious barrage. Referee Harvey Dock, correctly recognizing Vazquez`s inability to continue effectively and protect himself, stepped in and stopped the one-sided contest.
