In a stunning display of skill and determination, Xander Zayas has etched his name into the annals of boxing history. The 23-year-old Puerto Rican sensation defeated Abass Baraou via split decision to become the youngest active unified world champion. The electrifying bout took place in Zayas’ hometown of San Juan, where he unified the WBO and WBA junior middleweight titles.
The judges’ scorecards read 116-112, 116-112, and 112-116, reflecting the closely contested nature of the fight. Zayas’ victory was sealed with a breathtaking right hand in the ninth round that sent Baraou reeling. Despite Baraou’s resilience, he was unable to secure enough rounds to sway the judges’ decision.
Zayas’ triumphant performance has set the stage for a potential showdown with Josh Kelly, who is vying to become the UK’s sixth reigning men’s world champion. Kelly, with an impressive record of 17-1-1, is set to face the formidable IBF super welterweight champion Bakhram Murtazaliev. Kelly’s journey to the top has been marked by a series of spectacular victories, including a fifth-round stoppage of Beatriz Ferreira to claim the IBF title in 2025.
The Newcastle undercard promises further world title action, with several vacant belts up for grabs. Among the notable matchups, Josh Padley and Josh Blenkiron are set to compete for a shot at the vacant European belt. Padley, coming off a defeat to former world champion Can Xu, aims to bounce back and extend his winning streak.
Zayas’ historic achievement has solidified his position as a leading figure in boxing’s new wave. His first title defense was a testament to his skill and maturity in the ring. Zayas’ journey to the top began with his victory over Jorge Garcia Perez at Madison Square Garden, where he claimed the WBO belt and became boxing’s youngest reigning world champion.
As Zayas basked in the glory of his unified championship, he expressed his ambition to continue making history. “I did that when I became the youngest world champion, and now I’m doing it again by becoming the youngest unified champion,” Zayas stated. His sights are now set on further unifying the division and cementing his legacy in the sport.
The boxing world eagerly anticipates the potential clash between Zayas and Kelly, a bout that promises to be a thrilling encounter between two rising stars. As Zayas continues to make waves in the junior middleweight division, his journey is one that fans will undoubtedly follow with great interest.
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