Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela beat Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz to take the WBA super lightweight title today, a big upset to crown a new titleholder at 140 lbs.
Valenzuela (14-2, 9 KO) won a split decision, taking two cards of 116-112, with the third judge scoring the fight 115-113 for Cruz.
Bad Left Hook’s unofficial cards were 114-114 and 115-113 for Cruz, but the DAZN crew and most fans watching seemed to favor the work of Valenzuela.
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It’s a massive career boost for “Rayo,” obviously, as not only does he win his first world title in his first fight at 140 lbs, but he did so against a fighter who has steadily gained in popularity over the last couple of years, in the final undercard bout of a major show.
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“I’m speechless,” Valenzuela said. “Dream come true. I was 100 percent sure (I did enough to win). I just had to be smart. I didn’t get desperate, I didn’t fall into the pressure, I stayed calm. His power was nothing crazy, but it was good. He was solid. I felt like I was in control the whole time.”
Asked if he wanted a rematch, Cruz said, “For sure. I’d like to lay it on the line and officially request a rematch.”