Little-known Mexican featherweight contender Rafael Espinoza pulled off a stunning upset by defeating two-time Olympic Gold medalist Robeisy Ramirez to claim the WBO championship. Espinoza, with a pristine professional record, threw nearly 1,000 punches over 12 rounds and won a majority decision. Despite being knocked down in the fifth round, Espinoza's volume and relentless attack overwhelmed Ramirez, who was the favorite going into the fight. In another bout, Xander Zayas showcased his skills with a fifth-round stoppage victory over Jorge Fortea, setting up a future fight against Patrick Teixeira.
Rafael Espinoza shocks Robeisy Ramirez to become the WBO champion in a thrilling fight that is a contender for Fight of the Year. Espinoza showed excellent footwork, fast hands, and power shots, but was knocked down in the 5th round. Despite being compromised, Espinoza rallied and delivered a knockdown in the final seconds to secure a majority decision victory. Ramirez graciously accepted defeat, and both fighters expressed interest in a rematch. In the chief support, Xander Zayas dominated Jorge Fortea, winning by knockout in the fifth round and calling out former WBO champ Patrick Teixeira for a future fight.
Robeisy Ramirez defeated Isaac Dogboe in a twelve-round unanimous decision victory to claim the vacant WBO featherweight title. Ramirez, a two-time Olympic gold medalist for Cuba, overcame early career adversity to win his first major title. Dogboe, who threw more punches, was outlanded and connected at a significantly lower percentage than Ramirez. Ramirez is now a top featherweight and wants to fight all the world champions, including Joet Gonzalez, Luis Alberto Lopez, or Michael Conlan.
Robeisy Ramirez and Isaac Dogboe will fight for the vacant WBO featherweight title at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tulsa. Ramirez has been undefeated since his pro debut loss, while Dogboe has won four straight fights after back-to-back title fight defeats.
