By Norm Frauenheim

GLENDALE, Ariz. –The blood poured into a right eye. A swelling bruise began to close the left eye. Only the end was easy to see.

Emanuel Navarrete’s punches, long and deadly, bloodied, bruised and busted-up Eduardo Nunez, forcing the ring physician to call an end to the carnage in the first second of the eleventh round Saturday night at Desert Diamond Arena.

Navarrete’s victory proved to be a definitive answer to a growing chorus of critics who believed that the three-division champ was in a steep decline. He’s not. Instead, he’s a unified junior welterweight champion. He took Nunez’ International belt and added it to his World Boxing Organization title.

“I feel like I got back to what it is to be a Mexican warrior,” he said to a roaring crowd after his fourth appearance in the state since 2023.

The only way back to his warrior roots, however, was through a determined challenge from another resilient Mexican. Nunez (29-2, 27 KOs) was a slight favorite. And there were moments when it looked as if he might prevail.

“I want to be champion again,” he said after hugging Navarrete in the center of the ring. “I will continue to learn. 

Nunez’ right eye was cut in the fourth round. From the fifth through about the eighth, however, his power and evident discipline forced Navarrete to retreat.

But his corner stopped the bleeding after the round.  The blood was gone, suddenly and seemingly replaced by a sharper Nunez. He began to find his range. He landed a solid body-to-head combination that backed Navarrete into the ropes. 

The double shot, perfectly executed, seemed to surprise Navarrete, whose loosey-goosey style managed to confuse Nunez over the first two to three rounds. But the combo interrupted Navarrete’s momentum. He hesitated just enough for Nunez to get back into the fight.

Nunez’ power was finding avenues under Navarrete’s long, spaghetti-like arms. First, he targeted Navarrete’s body. Then his head, Navarrete went into reverse. He marched forward in the opening round. He retreated in the seventh. Increasingly, the relentless Ninez was there, his head and face in Navarrete’s chest. In the eighth, Nunez backed  him into the ropes and followed with a succession of head shots that landed with an echo that could be heard above the roar from the crowd. 

In the ninth, the blood started flowing again. A rapid swelling, the color of a purple grape, appeared around the left. Only the end was left.  

Emiliano Vargas prevails in punishing fight

There’s more to Emiliano Vargas than just a pretty face. There’s a mean streak too.He displayed it Saturday in a contentious, bruising stoppage of Augustine Quintana Saturday In a junior-welterweight fight that was a good measure of the young prospect’s chances of fulfilling his potential at Desert Diamond Arena.

“I want to become a world champion in my next fight,” the 21-year-old Vargas said after forcing Quintana’s corner to end it after the ninth round.

In the early rounds, it looked as if Vargas would win easily. In the fifth, however, Quintana (22-3-1, 13 KOs)  suddenly got aggressive. He marched forward, pursuing Vargas and throwing punches at a wild rate and in every direction. One landed low. Then, another. Vargas was in evident pain. The referee called time and warned Quintana.

For a few seconds, Vargas walked it off. The warning, however, changed the fight. It got nasty, borderline ugly. Quintana continued to throw punches, some that repeatedly seemed to land just at or below the beltline. But Vargas didn’t back away. 

Instead, he stood and exchanged shots that echoed throughout the old ice hockey arena. In the eighth, Quintana slipped onto his hands and knees. Vargas looked at him. Actually, he glared and gestured at the Argentine, urging him to get up. No interpretation necessary. Vargas wanted to administer some more punishment. 

He did with punches that forced another timeout  Quintana was sent to his corner where the ringside physician was waiting. The  good doctor took a look at his busted-up face and determined the fight could continue. Nobody was happier about that than Vargas.  A round later, it was over, despite angry protests from the busted-up Quintana.

Abel Ramos storms back, scores decision over Smalls

Now we know why Mario Barrios wouldn’t fight Abel Ramos again.

Ramos, fighting for the first time since a controversial draw with Barrios for the WBC welterweight title more than a year ago, displayed great conditioning, unleashing another furious rally for a victory over prospect Tahmir Smalls at Desert Diamond Arena.

It was close, but this time the judges got it right, giving Ramos (29-6-3, 22 KOs) a split decision– 98-92  and 97-93 for Ramos, 96-94 for Smalls.

Ramos and the crowd — populated by many fans from hometown Casa Grande about an hour drive from Glendale — celebrated as though they had been waiting for fate and fairness to finally favor Ramos.

For months, he waited and wondered, praying and hoping for a rematch with Barrios. 

“It’s been awhile since I last fought,” he told The Boxing Hour before opening bell.  “I thought I’d get the rematch. There were. a couple times I thought it was done. They kept saying yeah. But then he got the Manny Pacquiao fight. That’s when I knew I’d have to fight somebody else. No regrets. 

“I’m just happy to be here, fighting again. 

“I just love to fight.”

For the last six rounds, that was evident, painfully so for Smalls (16-1 11 KOs). First, there were body shots from  Ramos. Then, head shots. In the final round, Smalls slipped to the canvas, a picture of exhaustion..

“It’s exactly how I thought it would go,” said Ramos, who resurrected his future. “I hope this win will give me another title shot. I want Ryan Garcia, all of the champions.” 

Martinez, Cardenas fight to a draw

Jordan Martinez didn’t get the win. But he got the cheers and probably a rematch.

Martinez, an entertaining mix of energy and speed, wound up with a draw in front of hometown fans Saturday against favored Arturo Cardenas in the first fight of the DAZN live stream of the Emanuel Navarrete-Eduardo Nunez fight at Desert Diamond Arena.

Martinez (16-0-1, 15 KOs) appeared to grab the early momentum in the junior-featherweight fight. He danced into the ring and kept his feet moving throughout most of the early rounds. By the mid rounds, however, Cardenas (17-0-2, 9KOs) began to catch with solid shots. It was enough for him to also catch him on the cards — 98-92 for Martinez, 96-94 for Cardenas and 95-95. It was a split draw. A split audience, too..

“Most of his shots were hitting me on the gloves,” Cardenas, of Mexico, said.

The, crowd booed,

“We can run it back for sure and I’ll come back better,” said Martinez, a Phoenix fighter who wore the city’s logo on the back of his trunks.

Mesa junior welterweight Ochoa suffers first loss

Mexican Oscar Alvarez Guerrero brought Julio Cesar Chavez out of his broadcasting seat and onto his feet with a resilient burst of late energy that led to an upset decision over Trini Ochoa, a popular junior welterweight from Mesa, Saturday at Desert Diamond Arena.

The early moments in the eight-round fight appeared to belong to Ochoa, who delivered an effective body attack. But the lanky Guerrero (15-2, 12 KOs) endured the shots, recovered and then began to dominate, especially in the final couple of rounds. That’s when Guerrero mounted a relentless attack, backing Ochoa (21-1, 9 KOs) on to the ropes and into the loss column for the first time.

Bantamweight Velle stays unbeaten with dominant decision

Phillip Velle, an accomplished amateur, continued to add a prospect’s credibility to his resume Saturday, displaying a comprehensive skill set in a dominant decision over Brayan Ramos at Desert Diamond Arena.

Velle (5-0, 2 KOs), landed several well-executed counters throughout a sxi-round bantamweight fight. He staggered Ramos (8-8-1, 2 KOs), a resilient Mexican who managed to stay on his feet and in the fight. 

Prospect Beltran extends unbeaten record

Hector Beltran calls himself Handsome. The nickname still works. His face and record remains unmarked.

Beltran, a Robert Garcia-trained prospect, stayed unbeaten with a shutout decision over a game Cesar Diaz in the second fight on the Navarrete-Nunez featured card Saturday at Desert Diamond Arena.

Beltran (7-0, 5 KOs), of Dallas, took complete control of the welterweight bout in fourth, landing successive shots that rocked Diaz (10-2, 6 KOs) from one side of the ring to the next. 

First Bell: Navarrete-Nunez card opens with quick KO

Las Vegas welterweight Rahman Muhammad turned a scheduled matinee into a short feature Saturday at Desert Diamond Arena

Muhammad (3-0, 2 KOs) wasted little time, opening the show with second-round stoppage of Mitchell McFadden, (1-1), of Atlanta, on a Matchroom card featuring the Emanuel Navarrete-Eduardo Nunez fight for two pieces of the junior-lightweight title

By Norm Frauenheim

GLENDALE, Ariz. – For a while, the only thing separating Emanuel Navarrete and Eduardo Nunez was a valid passport. Now, even that’s gone.

Navarrete and Nunez stood face-to-face, seemingly even for perhaps the most intriguing fight in a new year Friday, just a day after Navarrete resolved issues over a lost passport and boarded a private jet in Mexico City for a flight to Arizona.

He landed, his papers and weight all in order. As he stepped off the scale, he looked relieved. Finally, he was where he was supposed to be. Finally, there were no issues about the weight. He safely came in under the junior-lightweight limit of 130 pounds.

In a staged weigh-in after the official one behind closed doors Friday morning at Desert Diamond Arena, he was at 129.2 and Nunez at 129.8.

Over the last few years, the 31-year-old Navarrete (39-2-1-1, 32 KOs) has often struggled to make weight. But this time, more than a passport was lost.

Pounds were, too, enough for him to stay in the hunt to keep his World Boxing Organization belt and to take Nunez’ International Boxing Federation title Saturday night at Desert Diamond in a DAZN-streamed bout.

“Obviously, we had our setbacks, all out of our hands,’’ Navarrete said through an interpreter. “But, finally, we’re here.’’

Navarrete sounded confident. The three-division champion is no stranger to Arizona where he’s already fought three times since 2023.

“This is a lot like my second home,’’ Navarrete said.

He’s been lucky in Maricopa County. He escaped with a victory over Australian Liam Wilson, scoring a stoppage after getting up from a controversial knockdown. He’s also been dominant, punishing Oscar Valdez, first at Desert Diamond and again at the Suns home arena in downtown Phoenix.

He knows the city. It knows him. But a boxing ring never includes any of the comforts of home. It’s full of danger and shifting allegiances, both of which are personified in the emerging face of Nunez.

Navarrete has the resume and an awkward style, a puzzle to most who have tried to solve it.

But Nunez has the momentum, which includes an astonishing knockout rate. He’s not perfect, but he’s close. He’s stopping opponents at a 93.1-percent clip.

Twenty-nine victories in 30 fights, 27 by stoppage. It comes with no surprise, perhaps, that his only loss came on the scorecards early in his career. Nunez’ power has dictated what he does. Who he is.

“Navarrete has been a champion for a long, long time,’’ Nunez said, also through an interpreter. “But I feel like it’s my time to write my own destiny.’’

Nunez woke up Friday as the favorite. The betting odds have been close since the fight was announced. Throughout, however, Nunez has been the bettors’ slight favorite, a sign perhaps that the fighter from Sinaloa has captured the imagination of Mexican fans.

For now, at least, Nunez is a name. Few American fans have seen him fight. In August 2024, he beat Miguel Marriaga in Carson, Calif. Last May, he traveled to Japan, scoring a unanimous decision over Masanori Rikiishi for a vacant IBF title in Yokohama. Twice, his passport has been punched with some noteworthy credibility.

But none would be more powerful than a victory over Navarrete, whose name has been near the top of Mexico’s boxing royalty for many years.

A victory over Navarrete would be a sure sign that he has arrived, especially among Mexicans, boxing’s biggest and loudest demographic. It’s no coincidence that promoters, Matchroom and Top Rank, have dubbed the fight “King of Mexico.”

Canelo Alvarez, who still plans a post-Terence Crawford comeback in September, might argue with that one. For one night, however, the marketing title works.

The 27-year Nunez has youth and evident energy. Against a Navarrete, he might need a lot of both. Navarrete’s edgy victories over Valdez suggest he’s at his best against fellow Mexicans. Valdez is popular in Arizona, in part because he has roots in Tucson. But Navarrete walked through him. From round to round, it looked as if he was energized by a partisan crowd. Those Valdez fans might be his fans now.

Nunez figures to encounter that version of Navarrete, who is also motivated by talk that he is not the fighter he was five years ago. In his last fight, he escaped against Charly Suarez. It ended in controversy over whether a punch or a head butt left Navarrete with a nasty cut. Eventually, it was ruled a No Contest. Navarette kept his belt, but couldn’t shed the questions.

“Some of the criticism was unfair,’’ said Navarrete, who has never had a better chance to prove just how unfair.   

4 x 3 mins Welterweight contest
RAHMAN MUHAMMAD (147.4lbs)     vs.           MITCHELL MCFADDEN (146.4lbs)
Las Vegas, Nevada                                                             Atlanta, Georgia

Followed by

6 x 3 mins Jr Middleweight contest
HECTOR BELTRAN JR. (154.8lbs)        vs.           CESAR DIAZ (155.2lbs)
Dallas, Texas                                                                           Lima, Peru

Followed by

6 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight contest
PHILLIP VELLA (119.8lbs)        vs.           BRAYAN RAMOS (117.8lbs)
Henderson, Nevada                                        Sonora, Mexico

Followed by

8 x 3 mins Super-Lightweight contest
TRINI OCHOA (142.8lbs)          vs.           OSCAR ALVAREZ (143lbs)
Phoenix, Arizona                                               Sonora, Mexico

LIVE ON DAZN FROM 6PM

10 x 3 mins WBC Continental Americas Super-Bantamweight title
ARTURO CARDENAS (122lbs)               vs.           JORDAN MARTINEZ (121.8lbs)
Michoacán, Mexico                                                           Phoenix, Arizona

Followed by

10 x 3 mins WBA Continental North America title
TAHMIR SMALLS (147lbs)       vs.           ABEL RAMOS (146.2lbs)
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania                      Casa Grande, Arizona

Followed by

10 x 3 mins WBO Latino and NABF Jr. Lightweight titles
EMILIANO VARGAS (139.8lbs)               vs.           AGUSTIN QUINTANA (139.6lbs)
Oxnard, California                                                             Buenos Aires, Argentina

Followed by

12 x 3 mins WBO and IBF Jr. Lightweight World title unification
EMANUEL NAVARRETE (129.2lbs)     vs.           EDUARDO NUNEZ (129.8lbs)
San Juan Zitlaltepec, Mexico                                    Sinaloa, Mexico

Emanuel Navarrete

“We had our setbacks getting here and a lot of it was out of our hands, but we’re here now and it’s great to see all the support to see two Mexican warriors get in the ring.

“There was a lot of speculation after my last fight, but I don’t think I have anything to justify. We can be really confident going into this fight and I want to show to myself that I can go and face these great champions. I feel I have a lot of time left in this sport to fight in great fights, but I want to just show tomorrow night that I have the guts and the heart to face these tough opponents.

“I’ve never liked to rank the fighters that I’ve fought, i always let other popular do that, but I can say without a doubt that Sugar is in the top five that I’ve faced, and because of that, this is a very important challenge for me. 

“I’m not blind, we’ll see on the night who has the most power. From the moment you board the train as a professional, you have the answer of what you are willing to do to win, and everything I’m willing to do to become a World champion and to be unified has never changed.

“We both have power, so I think that physical condition is key. Whomever can endure the most will win, and that physical condition will determine that. 

“I always want the knockout in all my fights but if it’s not possible then I take my time, I’ve learned that. I know I won’t hurt him with one punch, but I can destabilize him and go from there. 

“It’s always a pleasure to fight for my country. For my origins and representing my country, my flag, with a fighter like him. I believe it’s going to be an excellent fight. I’ve worked so hard so I can deliver the best fight of my career.”

Sugar Nunez

“He’s a fighter that’s very difficult to decipher. it’s a lot of pressure. What attracts me to this fight is that I like challenges. I know that this fight is important for my development to keep moving. 

“He has many knockouts and his rivals say he’s heavy handed. I think everyone has their own qualities. The truth is it’s a great challenge in front of me, he’s a great fighter, but I’m happy for this challenge. As a fighter and as a person, there’s a lot of respect there.

“I’m sure it’s going to be a war. He will arrive prepared and we will do our jobs, and then God will decide.

“I think this victory will be very important to both of us. He is well known in Mexico, and I’m molding my path now, so this is very big. We all have a winning mentality and are willing to do what is needed to win. I have a winning mentality, I see myself winning this fight. 

“I could never have imagined that I would be facing an opponent like Navarrete in the future, it’s an honor and I’m delighted to be here, and ready to take advantage of it.

“It’s a very difficult style to face but we have looked to copy it in sparring, so we’re confident in our preparation. We love the challenge and you know it’s a guaranteed war. 

“He’s been a champion for a long time, but I want to go in and write my own history.”

Eddie Hearn

“This is what boxing is all about. The best v the best, two champions in Sugar Nunez and Emanuel Navarrete face off in here on Saturday night, live on the zone around the world in front of 12,000 fans in here for what will be an incredible atmosphere.

“This fight as I said, exactly what boxing needs the IBF champion and the WBO champion, and we thank the WBO and IBF for making this fight and of course, our partners in this show, Top Rank, as it takes everybody coming together to make great fights like this.

“But in great fights like this, there’s always drama. When we arrived in Arizona yesterday, Emanuel Navarrete said he was very chilled. He was at the Mexican embassy at Mexico City, just rocked up there to get his visa and no one could find his passport. So overnight, we’re having a nice little panic about myself and the fine folk at Top Rank.

“And he went this morning, nice and chilled and on weight, and he’s currently on a private jet here, slightly delayed but as far as he’s concerned, he’s ready for the fight of his life. They will be facing off here in around an hour, and we have three incredible 50/50 fights on the undercard and some of the finest young talents in the game.”

Emiliano Vargas

“Quintana is a hell of a fighter. Throughout this whole process of winning Prospect of the Year, being at the Super Bowl; I know that didn’t matter to him. After winning the prospect of the year, I ran ten miles because I pictured him running five. Prior to the Super Bowl, I did 12 rounds, three different guys.
So I’m ready to go. I pictured him, every night. I know at the end of the day, he’s ready. He’s ready for the challenge and so am I.

“I’ve got to show everybody what I’m about. This fight is going to do that. Quintana is a great fighter. He’s caused upsets but I’m ready to go. I’ve crossed every check in my box. And now it’s fight week, I’m ready to make weight and ready to shine on Saturday night.

“The energy here in Glendale, Arizona has been amazing. Even when I fought at 3pm here in the prelims before, they would come out and I would feel the energy. Now, later in the night and I just can’t wait to shine in front of everybody.

“I’ve seen what it is to be a great fighter. And it’s been in front of me, has been in my father. I stand on the shoulders of my mother and father. Without them, I wouldn’t be here. I understand at the end of the day, if I want to be great, I have to outwork the regular guy in the boxing gym because the microscope is already on me from the get, from the debut.

“If I’m gonna do anything, I’m gonna do it 120 per cent. I know that is the only way I operate. If I’m locked in on something, that’s it. I prepare myself 120 per cent. I can’t wait. This is the beginning of the Emiliano Vargas era, and I want it all. I want the titles, but at the end of the day, if I don’t get past Quintana, then I don’t get to any of that. I thought about them through the whole process. I understood that I had to go to work.”

Agustin Quintana

“Firstly, I want to say thanks to God for giving me one of these other opportunities that I get, and for taking me to these places. It’s an honor to be here and a real dream of mine. I’ve been really enjoying the week so far, and I will continue to enjoy what’s left of it and go on to have a special night on Saturday.”

Tahmir Smalls

“I just want to thank God for the opportunity and thank you guys for the opportunity, now I’m ready to set off fireworks come Saturday. I know who I got in front of me. I haven’t slacked off one bit in this camp. I’m ready to get it on.
I’m 100 per cent ready. I wouldn’t have taken the fight if I didn’t believe I was ready, I wouldn’t have took the fight in his backyard. I just know I crossed every T and dotted every I in this camp, and I’m ready to set fireworks off.”

Abel Ramos

“I want to thank God for allowing me to be here and good health and blessed to be back in my hometown of Arizona after nine years of not fighting here. It is going to be amazing. This fight card is is going to be fire and I’m excited to be here.

“We know what we have in front of us, it is going to be a tough fight. But we trained well for for that. And, I’m going to use my experience as an advantage and my hometown, of course.”

Arturo Cardenas

“I’m coming into this fight ready and prepared. As you say, we never take a step back in terms of accepting fights. I’m here once again, boxing in Arizona, it’s my third time here and I’m very grateful to be here, and I’m ready to put on a great show once again.”

Jordan Martinez

“Let’s go. That’s all. I’m ready for this. This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for. And I am ready to show everybody what I could do in the ring.” 

By Norm Frauenheim

GLENDALE, Ariz. — Emanuel Navarrete missed a news conference Thursday for a fight for a unified junior-lightweight title Saturday against emerging fellow-Mexican Eduardo Nunez at Desert Diamond Arena because he lost his passport.

The fight for the World Boxing Organization and International Boxing Federation belts was still on, however. 

During the  undercard portion of a delayed news conference, promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed a story first reported by The Boxing Hour and said  Navarrete was on a private jet from Mexico City to Phoenix.

“”Earlier, he was sitting in an embassy in Mexico City,” Hearn, Nunez’ promoter, said. “Nobody could find his passport.

Hearn had hoped to stage the ritual stare-down between Navarrete and Nunez later in the night. But there was still no sign of Navarrete as the undercard part of the newser ended.

Representatives for Top Rank, Navarrete’s promoter, were confident he was enroute.

“We had some drama this week,” Top Rank vice president Carl Moretti said.

Moretti then thanked Hearn for acquiring a private jet.

“We’re still negotiating that,” Hearn said.

Navarrete is popular in the Phoenix area. His scheduled Saturday fight on DAZN is his third at Desert Diamond and his fourth in Maricopa County since 2023. He beat Oscar Valdez in a rematch in December, 2024 at the Suns home arena in downtown Phoenix in his last Arizona appearance. His drawing power has been evident.

“This fight will happen in front of what will be 12,0000 fans,” Hearn said.

Following an unbelievable weekend of boxing in “The Ring: High Stakes” Mario Barrios vs. Ryan Garcia and Claressa Shields vs. Franchon Crews-Dezurn II, DAZN’s action-packed Q1 boxing slate continues this Saturday, Feb. 28, when Emanuel Navarrete (39-2-1, 32 KOs) and Eduardo Nunez (29-1, 27 KOs) face off with both the IBF and WBO Super Featherweight Titles on the line. The fight at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Ariz., will air live on DAZN starting at 9pm ET / 6pm PT. Main event ringwalks are set to kick off at approximately 11:47pm ET / 8:47pm PT / 4:45am GMT. 

The Navarrete vs. Nunez undercard features three exciting bouts with four undefeated fighters looking to protect their unblemished records. Tahmir Smalls (16-0, 11 KOs) hopes to remain perfect against Abel Ramos (28-6, 22 KOs) in a welterweight matchup. Elsewhere, the promising 21-year-old super lightweight prospect Emiliano Vargas (16-0, 13 KOs) will enter the ring to face Agustin Quintana (22-2-1, 13 KOs) undefeated but is in for a challenge as Quintana hasn’t lost a fight in nearly three years. Rounding out the undercard is a bantamweight clash between two undefeated fighters in Arturo Cardenas (18-0, 9 KOs) and Jordan Martinez (16-0, 15 KOs). 

Heading into March, the action continues as both former interim champion Arnold Barboza Jr. (32-1, 11 KOs) and Kenneth Sims Jr. (22-3-1, 8 KOs) will move up to the welterweight division in a highly contested bout that will also feature a pair of world champions in Gabriela Fundora (17-0, 9 KOs) and Oscar Collazo (13-0, 10 KOs) on the undercard, live on DAZN on March 14 in Anaheim, Calif. 

The following weekend, DAZN boxing heads to Orlando, Fla., on Saturday, March 21 for a WBC Middleweight Title fight between Carlos Adames (24-1, 18 KOs) and Austin “Ammo” Williams (20-1, 13 KOs). Adames’ third title defense was originally set with Williams in January as part of the Shakur Stevenson vs. Teofimo Lopez card, but Adames pulled out before the weigh in due to illness. 

All fights are airing worldwide on DAZN and can be viewed via a DAZN subscription. If you are not currently a DAZN member, then monthly and annual subscription options are available to watch over 185 fights a year across boxing, bare knuckle boxing, MMA and kickboxing.

Please click HERE to sign up for DAZN Media Center — your one-stop hub for assets across DAZN Boxing including upcoming pay-per-view events, subscription fights and our archive library.

UPCOMING EVENTS ON DAZN

Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026

Navarrete vs. Nunez Press Conference

4pm ET / 1pm PT / 9pm GMT

WATCH HERE

Friday, Feb. 27, 2026

Navarrete vs. Nunez Weigh-in

Feb. 27 4pm ET / 1pm PT / 9pm GMT

WATCH HERE

Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026

Emanuel Navarrete vs. Eduardo Nunez

Desert Diamond Arena | Glendale, Ariz.

WATCH THE FIGHT HERE

Saturday, March 14, 2026

Arnold Barboza Jr. vs. Kenneth Sims Jr.

Honda Center | Anaheim, Calif. 

WATCH THE FIGHT HERE

Saturday, March 21, 2026

Carlos Adames vs. Austin Williams

Caribe Royale Resort | Orlando, Fla. 

WATCH THE FIGHT HERE

NEWS AND SOCIAL

• Eduardo Nunez RETURNS this Saturday 
• Another step towards greatest this Saturday  
• Only one can be crowned the next King of Mexico   #NavarreteNunez live on DAZN this Saturday
• Promise kept   @ammowilliams’ World Title shot against WBC Middleweight Ruler @caballobronco is rescheduled for March 21 
• The Next King of Mexico.
• Are you ready for war? 
• Emanuel Navarrete is clinical in the ring
• Champion vs Champion   @vaquero_navarrete and @sugarnunez97 put their WBO & IBF World Titles on the line this Saturday at the @ddarenaaz 
• Emanuel Navarrete vs Eduardo Nunez: THE BREAKDOWN
• Emanuel Navarrete vs. Eduardo Nunez: A Mexican War That Could Steal Fight of the Year

Tahmir Smalls will defend his WBA Continental North America Welterweight title against Abel Ramos at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona on Saturday February 28, live worldwide on DAZN, leading the undercard for the blockbuster unification clash between Emanuel Navarrete and Eduardo ‘Sugar’ Nunez.

TICKETS FOR FEBRUARY 28 ARE ON SALE NOW FROM TICKETMASTER.COM

Smalls (16-0 11 KOs) claimed the title in his last outing on home turf in Philadelphia, dropping Jose Roman Vazquez twice over ten rounds to pick up his first belt and biggest win to date.

‘Boots’ Ennis’ stablemate now steps up once again, and this time he’s entering the Lion’s Den to take on Phoenix’s Ramos (28-6-3 22 KOs) in another step-up showdown. Ramos returns to the ring after a grueling World title battle with WBC champion Mario Barrios in Texas in November, missing out on becoming a World ruler with their tussle ending in a draw.

Ramos will be eager to get back into position for a third shot at a World title, having faced Yordenis Ugas for the WBA strap in September 2020, and for Smalls, the showdown gives the 26 year old the chance to further stake his claim for more big fights at 147lbs – a must-win night for both fighters in the desert.

“2026 is my year,” said Smalls. “I am coming for everybody that is in my way to becoming World champion in the division, and that starts with Abel Ramos on February 28.”

“Devin Haney, Mario Barrios, Rolly Romero and Lewis Crocker – I am calling out all of you. I am taking over the Welterweight division and there is nothing stopping me. On February 28, Abel Ramos – it’s belt to ass. Statement time.”

“I am excited to be back in the ring,” said Ramos. “It’s going to be an action-packed fight card, and I am ready to put on a show for all my people here in Phoenix.”

Elsewhere on a stacked card in Arizona, Arturo Cardenas defends his WBC Continental Americas Super-Bantamweight title against Jordan Martinez. Mexican Cardenas (17-0-1 9 KOs) puts the title on the line for the fourth time after a successful third defense in Stockton, California in December, and does so against unbeaten Arizonan Martinez (16-0 15 KOs) who will be hungry to claim the biggest win of his career and rip Cardenas’ title away.

“A big thank you to my team at RGBA and Matchroom for the opportunity to perform on such a great card between two Mexican warriors,” said Cardenas. “On February 28, I am looking forward to putting on an exciting fight for the fans there in Arizona and continuing my climb to a World title.”

“Quiero Gerra! (I want war) Quiero Sangre! (I want blood),” said Martinez. “Arturo is making a big mistake in taking this fight. This is the opportunity I have been waiting for, asking for, and now it’s finally here. This is my city. This is my time. February 28, don’t blink.”

A third title fight on the card sees Emiliano Vargas continue his rise in the paid ranks, defending his WBO Latino and WBC NABF Super-Lightweight titles against Agustin Quintana. Vargas (16-0 13 KOs) claimed the vacant WBO Latino title in Mexico in November with a landslide points win, and the Las Vegas starlet will be aiming to kick 2026 off in style in Arizona against Quintana (22-2-1 13 KOs), the experienced Argentinian on a four-fight winning streak which included him handing Marc Castro a first defeat in December 2024.

“The fans in Arizona have always supported my family, and I can’t wait to put on a show for them February 28,” said Vargas. “This is a great card headlined by two Mexican warriors, and I’m thrilled to be part of it.”

There’s more local flavor on the card in the shape of unbeaten Super-Lightweight Trini Ochoa (21-0 9 KOs), while unbeaten Texan Super-Welterweight Hector Beltran Jr (6-0 5 KOs) and unbeaten Las Vegas pair Rahman Muhammad (1-0 1 KOs) and Phillip Vela (4-0 2 KOs) all taste action and will be matched in due course.

Matchroom Boxing will begin the new year with a host of blockbuster events across the UK and US as promoter Eddie Hearn today revealed its stellar start to 2026 – delivered to fight fans all part of their subscription with the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN.

With his pledge to ‘Make Boxing Great Again’, Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing get things up and running on Saturday, January 24 at the incredible Fontainebleau Las Vegas in the heart of the famous Nevada strip, when Olympic gold medalist Andy Cruz challenges for his first World Title against reigning IBF Lightweight ruler Raymond Muratalla.

One week later, on Saturday, January 31, the IBF strap is on the line in the first UK card of the year as Matchroom Boxing’s latest addition Josh ‘Pretty Boy’ Kelly, fighting in his native North-East at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena, goes up against undefeated World Champion Bakhram Murtazaliev.

February sees two outstanding back-to-back shows, beginning with a long awaited domestic grudge rematch between two former World Champions when bitter rivals Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington collide on Saturday, February 21, at Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena.

Then, on Saturday, February 28, we look forward to a monumental all-Mexican clash in the Arizonan desert when IBF World Super Featherweight king Eduardo Sugar Núñez and WBO Champion Emanuel Navarrete meet in a mouth-watering unification battle at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, USA.

Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn said: “I told you all we would be coming in hot – and this is proof that we are standing on business. By kicking off the new year with some of the best fights you will see in the sport, we really will ‘Make Boxing Great Again’.

“Andy Cruz finally gets his shot to win his first world title, before our latest new signing bids to become one of Britain’s next World Champions. Then all eyes will be on two former kings – and absolute bitter enemies – in what will be a must-see rematch between two brilliant warriors in Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington. And Naverette-Nunez is an all-out Mexican war that every fight fan needs. This promises to be one of the contests of the year. What is even better is that all of these brilliant events will be live and exclusive worldwide as part of your subscription plan on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN.”

Cuba’s undefeated 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games hero Cruz (6-0, 3 KOs) is confident he will begin the new year as he means to go on, by upsetting Muratalla (23-0, 17 KOs) on January 24 in Vegas, and fulfilling his ultimate childhood dream of becoming a World Champion.

Cruz said: “This is the moment I’ve dreamed about since I was a kid. Raymond Muratalla is a great fighter, but I believe I’m on another level. I’ve sacrificed everything to get here, and that’s why I came to the United States to make history in the best boxing in the world. On fight night, the world will see the real Andy Cruz and why I’m ready to become a World Champion.”

Muratalla is confident, however, that his first defence will be a successful one – but knows Cruz will present a tough challenge.

Muratalla said: “I’m excited to make my first title defence against a worthy contender in Andy Cruz. I know the fans are excited for this fight, and I’m coming to Las Vegas to prove I’m the class of the lightweight division. Thank you to Top Rank, Matchroom, and DAZN for making this fight happen. This is what boxing needs —more great fights — and I’m happy to be a part of it.”

Matchroom Boxing’s new recruit Josh ‘Pretty Boy’ Kelly (17-1-1, 9 KOs) shares that dream too – and he hopes he will deliver a memorable night in Newcastle as he bids to dethrone the 23-0 (17 KOs) unbeaten American-based knockout artist Bakhram Murtazaliev (23-0, 17 KOs) on January 31.

Josh Kelly said: “What can I say, I’m back to where it all started, being promoted by Matchroom Boxing, in time to realise my dream. I want to say a huge thank you to Eddie Hearn and Frank Smith. I am massively excited and I am looking forward to the next phase of my career, becoming World Champion in 2026 with Matchroom and fulfilling my potential that has always been there. Also, I want to say a big thank you to Wasserman for everything they have done for me over the last few years and getting me into a mandatory position.”

There is no love lost between Leigh Wood and Josh Warrington. And with his fervent home support behind him in Nottingham on February 21, former two-time WBA World Featherweight Champion Wood (28-4, 17 KOs) is determined to prove that his stunning seventh round knockout that settled their barnstorming 2023 encounter was no fluke.

Leigh Wood said: “I’ve been gathering my four-leaf clovers, horseshoes, and a rabbit’s foot for luck. Because apparently that’s all it was last time.”

Warrington (32-4-1, 8 KOs), the former two-time IBF World Featherweight Champion, is out for redemption as he looks to scratch a longstanding itch to defeat his arch-nemesis.

Josh Warrington said: “It’s finally here, I can close a chapter that has irritated me for the last two years. I’ve been waiting for this moment. I’m ready now.”

And Eduardo Sugar Núñez (29-1, 27 KOs) – who earlier this year won the IBF crown on away soil in Japan against Masanori Rikiishi – has his heart firmly set on adding more hardware to his collection and what he believes will be a battle for the ages in Glendale on February 28 against fellow countryman Navarette (39-2-1, 32 KOs).

Eduardo Sugar Núñez said: “I’m very excited and eager to be in the ring with Vaquero. He’s a fighter I’ve always admired, and it will be an honor to unify the titles. Above all, it will be a great fight for all the fans. Mexico vs. Mexico is a guaranteed war. And this one will be no exception”

Navarette has ruled the world as a three-weight World Champion over the past seven years – and is now determined to fulfil his ambition of becoming a unified king in what he has vowed will be an unmissable night in Arizona.

Navarette said: “In my seven years as World Champion, I’ve always been clamoring to unify my titles, and finally, my dream is coming true. I want to tell everyone to expect a war between Mexicans and that I’m willing to die fighting to defend what’s mine. I have a lot of respect for ‘Sugar’ Nuñez, but this is my moment, and he’s going to face a ‘Vaquero’ who’s twice as motivated. And to all the people of Phoenix who have always supported me, I promise you a war and a great show. I’m going to win this fight.”

All of these events are available exclusively to DAZN viewers as part of their regular subscription.

DAZN VP Alfie Sharman said: “We are starting 2026 with a bang with World Title fights, grudge matches and local heroes. These Fight Nights have it all. All unmissable – and all part of your subscription only on DAZN.”

Further fights, ticket news and media accreditation details will follow separately in due course for each of these events. You can follow all the latest updates first by following @matchroomboxing across our social media platforms.

ORLANDO, FL (September 8, 2025) – In what is already being hailed as a potential “Fight of the Year” candidate, world title challenger Christopher “Pitufo” Diaz (30-6, 19 KOs) of Orlando, Florida went toe-to-toe with IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Eduardo “Sugar” Nunez (29-1, 27 KOs) in the champion’s hometown this past Saturday, September 6, in a high-octane slugfest streamed live on DAZN and promoted by Matchroom Boxing in association with Boxlab Promotions.

From the opening round, Diaz and Nunez stood in the pocket and traded heavy shots, electrifying the crowd in Los Mochis. Though Nunez scored a pair of flash knockdowns in round seven that ultimately widened the scorecards, Diaz never stopped coming forward—cutting the champion over his left eye with a punch in the final round and forcing him to dig deeper than ever before.

“This was one of the most intense fights of my career, and I gave it everything I had,” said Diaz after the bout. “I knew I was in enemy territory, but I didn’t come there to back down—I came to fight. Nunez is a great champion, but I made him earn every second of that win.”

Despite the setback on the scorecards, Diaz’s performance earned admiration from fans, commentators, and his opponent alike. His relentless pressure and ability to absorb and return fire in equal measure created a war the local crowd, and everyone that was watching globally won’t soon forget. “I told myself before the fight—I want these fans to remember my name,” Diaz shared. “I may not be from Los Mochis, but I brought a fight that will stay in their hearts. I gave them something real, something unforgettable. That’s what boxing is all about.”

A seasoned veteran of the sport, Diaz has spent the better part of a decade battling elite opposition at the championship level, never shying away from tough fights—and never failing to entertain. “I’ve fought some of the best in the world, and I’ve always brought fireworks,” he said. “Win or lose, the fans know that when ‘Pitufo’ Diaz steps into the ring, they’re getting a fight. I’m proud of that. That’s my legacy.”

As for what’s next, Diaz remains hungry and optimistic. “I’m going to rest up, but I’m not done—not by a long shot,” Diaz concluded. “There’s still gas in the tank, and I know I’ve got more great fights ahead of me. Whether it’s a rematch or another top contender, I’ll be ready.”

Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, praised Diaz’s courage and performance. “We couldn’t be prouder of what Christopher showed in that ring,” Piedra said. “He went into a champion’s backyard, in front of a fired-up crowd, and gave the fans a fight they’ll be talking about for years. This was a classic—pure heart, grit, and world-class action. That’s what ‘Pitufo’ brings every time.”

With his warrior spirit on full display, Christopher “Pitufo” Diaz once again reminded the boxing world why he remains one of the most exciting fighters in the sport.

4 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight contest
Hector Beltran Jr (153.8 lbs) vs. Moises Martinez-Zumaya (154.6 lbs)
(Dallas, Texas)                           (Los Cabos, Baja California)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins Flyweight contest
Yoali Mosqueda (111.8 lbs) vs. German Valenzuela (112.8 lbs)
(Mexico City, Mexico)                 (Sonora, Mexico)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins Super-Flyweight contest
Pedro Guevara (116.5lbs) vs. Alexis Molina (118.2lbs)
(Mazatlan, Mexico)                   (Culiacan, Mexico)
 
Followed by
 
12 x 3 mins IBF World Junior-Lightweight title
Eduardo Nunez (130lbs) vs. Christopher Diaz (129.6lbs)
(Los Mochis, Mexico)                 (Orlando, Florida)

Eduardo “Sugar” Nunez won a 12-round unanimous decision over Masanori Rikiishi to won the IBF Junior Lightweight title.

Nunez, 129.4 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX won by scores of 117-111, 116-112 and 115-113 to become a champion with a record of 28-1. Rikiishi, 129.9 lbs of Sozuka, JAP is 16-2.

World rulers Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez and Richardson Hitchins face crunch clashes in the summer live worldwide on DAZN – as WBC and Ring Magazine king Bam faces WBO champion Phumelele Cafu in a blockbuster unification battle at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas on July 19 and Hitchins makes the first defense of his IBF World Junior-Welterweight crown against former World ruler George Kambosos Jr at The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York on June 14.
 
Rodriguez (21-0 14 KOs) is back in action following a stellar 2024, where he followed his epic KO win over modern great Juan Francisco Estrada in a fight of the year contender in Phoenix in June to become a two-weight unified champion, and defended the titles for the first time in Philadelphia in November with a dominant three-round destruction of Pedro Guevara, and fights in his home state for the first time since he became a two-weight champion by beating Cristian Hernandez in his San Antonio hometown in April 2023.
 
Cafu (11-0-3 8 KOs) puts his belt on the line for the first time after taking the crown from Kosei Tanaka in Tokyo in October via split decision. ‘Truth’ now steps into one of the biggest fights in the game in just his second World championship bout, with the South African landing his belt in just his 14th pro-outing.
 
“I’m excited to finally step back into the ring,” said Rodriguez. “I cannot wait to fight in front of my home state fans. I’m looking forward to unifying in another weight division.
 
“I know Cafu is a tough opponent, but these kinds of fights bring out the best in me and I’ll be ready for whatever he brings. July 19th tune in and witness greatness.”
 
“This is awesome, man, because once again I get to step in with an elite fighter and prove the world wrong, showing people that I’m also an elite fighter,” said Cafu. “I’ve always wanted to fight him because people think he is the bogeyman of the division and say he is unbeatable, but I’ll prove to the people that no one is unbeatable. Beating him will put me on the pound-for-pound list, and I will be King of the division.”
 
“We’re proud to once again welcome the world of boxing to The Star in Frisco for what promises to be another unforgettable night,” said Stephen Jones, Chief Operating Officer, and Co-Owner of the Dallas Cowboys. “Hosting a fight of this magnitude between Bam Rodriguez and Phumelele Cafu reflects our continued commitment to bringing premier sporting events to our fans and community. We greatly value our ongoing partnership with Matchroom Boxing and are excited to help deliver another iconic event at The Star.”
 
The first undercard bout to be announced on the Bam-Cafu show is a big one, with the co-feature of the night pitting LA Super-Middleweight sensation Diego Pacheco faces Trevor McCumby.
 
Pacheco (23-0 18 KOs) is closing in on his first World title shot, and the #1 contender with the WBO will be aiming to add another scalp to his resume following an impressive showing in Las Vegas where he saw off Steven Nelson.
 
McCumby (28-1 21 KOs) will have other ideas though as the Arizonan looks to get back on track for a World title tilt of his own. The 32 year old floored former World ruler Caleb Plant in the fourth round of their clash in Las Vegas in September, but Plant would stop McCumby in the ninth round to claim the interim WBA strap.
 
“I’ve been working my entire life to get to this point in my career where im facing the best fighters in the world,” said Pacheco. “Ahora si ya empezó lo bueno y venimos con todo y por todo.”
 
“I’m very excited to be back,” said McCumby. “There’s a lot of hype behind my opponent, that I will put to rest. The world hasn’t seen the best Trevor McCumby and I plan show them come fight night #Tenacious.”
 
Hitchins (19-0 7 KOs) returns home to New York for the first defense of the title that he won with a clinical performance against Australian Liam Paro in Puerto Rico in December. The unbeaten 27 year old is back in the Big Apple for the first time since February 2023 where he dominated John Bauza, with his last two wins seeing his shut-out Jose Zepeda in Orlando in September 2023 before he set up his World title shot against Paro with victory in a final eliminator over Gustavo Lemos in Las Vegas last April.
 
Kambosos Jr (22-3 10 KOs) has very fond memories of the venue too, with the Australian returning to the scene of his greatest night, where he became the king at 140lbs by stunning Teofimo Lopez in November 2021. ‘Ferocious’ returned Down Under where he twice met Devin Haney in Melbourne before welcoming Vasiliy Lomachenko to Perth, with a victory over Maxi Hughes in Oklahoma. The 31 year old claimed the 22nd win of his pro career in March against Jake Wyllie in Sydney and will look to become a two-time World ruler against Hitchins.
 
“June 14, NY we are here baby!” said Hitchins. “The 140lb king returns home, headlining my first show at MSG, as a World champion. Just saying it aloud gives me chills. I dreamed of moments like this as a kid and now we are here.
 
“George Kambosos is not on my level. Never has been, never will be. He’s talked himself into this fight, and now he’s going to pay the price for running his mouth. He had the biggest win of his career and crowning moment in this building, and on June 14 I end his career in that same building.
 
“This is my time, my division, and I plan on putting on a spectacular performance and showing the world that I am one of the best fighters on the planet.”
 
“The stars align again, history always repeats, I head back to a place I created legacy at, a home where I may be regarded as an underdog again but a familiar place that i thrive in,” said Kambosos Jr.
 
“I stand 2-0 at Madison Square Garden, the world’s most famous arena, and on June 14, I will make it 3-0 when I rip Hitchins’ belt off him and break his will, take his heart and ruin his undefeated career.
 
“He has never been in a fight with a fighter like me, I have stepped to the absolute best, a resume unlike any. This is my 6th World title fight. I’ve built countless experience and at my new weight of 140 pounds I feel tremendous and very motivated to become a two-weight World champion.
 
“He likes to talk for a man that deep down hasn’t achieved much, so I look forward to taking him to a place he has never been and seeing how much of the talk is real and how much of it is fake like others in the past. See you June 14, Shitchins”
 
Before two blockbuster nights in America, two shows hit DAZN at the end of May. There’s a mouthwatering World title fight in Yokohama, Japan as Eduardo ‘Sugar’ Nunez and Masanori Rikiihsi clash for the vacant IBF World Super-Featherweight title at Yokohama Buntai, Yokohama on Wednesday May 28, live on DAZN in the UK, USA, Canada and throughout Europe.
 
Nunez (27-1 27 KOs) travels to the land of the Rising Sun for his first World title fight, as the Mexican knockout merchant and IBF #1 locks horns with Rikiishi (16-1 11 KOs) who himself is on a five-straight KO win tear.
 
Three days later, Matchroom return to Mexico on Friday May 30 as Manuel Gallegos and Khalil Coe clash in a rematch for the WBC USA Light-Heavyweight title at Arena Alcalde in Guadalajara, live worldwide on DAZN.
 
Gallegos (21-2-1 18 KOs) and Coe (9-1-1 7 KOs) first met in November in Philadelphia where the Mexican ripped the title from the New Jersey talent with a ninth-round stoppage, and they will tussle for the strap again next month, this time on the champions home turf.
 
Two hometown favorites are in action with Gabriel Valenzuela (30-4-1 17 KOs) fighting over ten rounds at Super-Lightweight and WBO Latino Bantamweight champion Christian Medina (24-4 17 KOs) kicking off the night on DAZN.
 
“This is another brilliant slate of fights on the home of boxing, DAZN,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Bam is a pound-for-pound superstar of the sport at such a young age, and he is primed to unify once again against a tough foe in Cafu, while it’s another big showcase for Diego to underline his readiness to face the World rulers.
 
“Richardson was fantastic against Liam in Puerto Rico but now the hunter becomes the hunted, and George is returning to the scene of his greatest triumph to rip up the script against New York’s only World champion.
 
“I cannot wait to be in Japan to see the vicious ‘Sugar’ Nunez claim the World title against Rikiihsi and then head to Mexico for a pivotal night in the career of Khalil Coe, as he rematches Gallegos.”
 

Angel Fierro stopped Eduardo Estela in round seven of their scheduled 10-round lightweight bout in Culiacan, Mexico

In round two, Fierro was deducted a point. In round four, Fierro dropped Estela with a hard right hand. At the end of the round, Fierro dropped Estela again with another right that rolled Estela under the bottom rope.

In round seven, Fierro landed a big flurry that was finished up by a couple of hard left hooks that put Estela down and out at 2:59

Fierro, 134 lbs of Tijuana, MEX is 21-1-2 with 17 knockouts. Estela, 134.2 lbs of Montevideo, URU is 14-2.

Eduardo Nunez scored a vicious second round stoppage over Martin Ceyca in a 10-round super featherweight bout.

In round two, Nunez landed a booming right hand that drilled the jaw of Ceyca and put him flat on his back and the fight was over at 2:14.

Nunez, 130.6 lbs of Los Mochis, MEX is 24-1 with all 24 by knockout. Ceyca, 128.8 lbs of Culiacan, MEX is 17-1.

Misael Lopez remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Aaron Guerrero in a middleweight fight.

Rodriguez, 162.6 lbs of Chihuahua, MEX won by scores of 78-76 and 77-76 twice and is now 13-0. Guerrero, 161.2 lbs of Culiacan, MEX is 16-2-1.

Francisco Pina won an eight-round unanimous decision over Alejandro Young in a battle of undefeated featherweights.

Pina, 125.8 lbs of Mexico City won by scores of 78-75, 77-75 and 77-76 and is now 6-0. Young, 127.2 lbs of Los Mochis, MX is 9-1.

Criztec Bazaldua made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Jose Bustamante in a lightweight contest.

Bazaldua, 136.4 lbs of Los Angeles won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is 1-0. Bustamante, 135.4 lbs of Mexico City is 1-1.

This Friday, April 1, 2022, Fight Hub TV, in association with boxing’s best, up-and-coming digital platform, Fightstars, will proudly present High-Impact Boxing (Boxeo de Alto Impacto) a four-fight night of world-class boxing, streamed live, at no charge, from Jalisco, Mexico.

TO WATCH HIGH-IMPACT BOXING (4:17 PM EST/7:17 PM PST) PRESENTED BY FIGHTSTARS FOR FREE ON FIGHT HUB TV, CLICK HERE.

Presented by ‘The New Blood of Boxing in Mexico,’ BXTRS Promotions, in the high-impact 10-round featherweight main event, once-beaten power-punching knockout artist Eduardo “Sugar” Nunez (22-1, 22 KOs) Los Mochis, Sinaloa, will face fellow Mexican Adrian “Gallero” Pacheco (9-4-1, 5 KOs) of Mexico City.

Trained by the well-known Montiel family, in Los Mochis, the promising Nunez will be looking for his 23rd professional KO in as many wins and twelfth consecutive stoppage. The 24-year-old is a seven-year professional who has done all his fighting inside his homeland, thus far.

Also scheduled for the livestream are a pair of junior flyweights in an eight-round duel, as Hector “Rapidito” Flores (19-0-4, 10 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California will take on Jose “Motorcito” Ramirez (13-8, 7 KOs) of Tlalchapa, Guerrero, Mexico.

Also scheduled is a six-round super featherweight battle between Mexico City’s undefeated Alberto Mora (3-0, 3 KOs) of Mexico City and an opponent TBA.

And to open the broadcast, unbeaten super featherweight Raymundo “Ray” Rojas (6-0, 4 KOs) of Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico, will take on Roberto “El Michoacano” Reyes (2-2) of Zitacuaro, Michoacan, over six rounds.

TO WATCH HIGH-IMPACT BOXING (4:17 PM EST/7:17 PM PST) PRESENTED BY FIGHTSTARS FOR FREE ON FIGHT HUB TV, CLICK HERE.

One of the fastest-emerging boxing-media companies in the world, fightstars.tv is a radically ambitious new subscription-based content-provider service offering world-class fights, gloves-off interviews, behind-the-scenes scoops and fight coverage from some of the biggest names in boxing to fans worldwide.

For more information on fightstars.tv, please visit their OFFICIAL SITE.

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LAS VEGAS (July 20, 2021) – An explosive match-up between Mexican featherweights Eduardo “Sugar” Nunez (21-1, 21 KOs) and Jonathan “El Fenix” Aguilar will headline the next installment of RJJ Boxing on UFC Fight Pass®, July 29th at Benito Juarez Auditorium in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico.

The action will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. To sign-up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.

RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS is co-promoted by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions and De La O Promotions.

“This could very well be a coming out party for Eduardo Nunez,” RJJ Boxing CEO/co-founder Keith Veltre said, “who will be tested by Jonathan Aguilar in a battle of knockout artists. Nunez is a terrific puncher who is a rising star in the featherweight division. Another fighter to watch is 19-year-old Jorge Lugo Cota. He has all the tools to be a champion someday and he’s become a popular prospect fighting on our cards.

The 23-year-old Nunez is riding an 11-fight win streak, dating back three years, since he suffered his only pro loss to Adam Valle by way of a 6-round decision. Valle remains the only fighter to go the complete distance with Nunez, a former WBC Youth Silver Featherweight Champion. Nunez is hoping to break through on a larger scale, thanks to the exposure he’ll receive fighting UFC FIGHT Pass, and crack the world ratings this year.

Nunez’ opponent is the 10-round main event, power-punching Aguilar, is a former WBC International bantamweight title challenger. Nunez and Aguilar have 38 knockouts in 41 combined victories. Odds are Nunez vs. Aguilar reach the final bell.

In the co-featured event, super featherweight Jose “Checke Choryboy” Valenzuela (10-3, 4 KOs) takes on an opponent from the same state of Sonora, Jose Luis “Cuate” Vazquez (12-2, 5 KOs), in a rivalry fight. Valenzuela is from Los Mochis, Vazquez from Culiacon.

Cota (4-0, 3 KOs) has the potential to be a bonafide star. He has the proper bloodlines as the latest member of the fighting Montiel family, whose grandfather and uncles captured world titles. “Jorgito,” who had a 140-10 amateur record, will fight in a 6-rounder versus upset-minded Rodrigo Felix (4-4, 2 KOs), who is coming off a win by 6-round decision against previously undefeated prospect Oscar Ortega.

The opening UFC FIGHT PASS match is a 6-round, super bantamweight bout between Nazario Castro (6-2, 3 Kos) and Issac “Yaqui” Buitimea (9-7, 4 KOs).

A pair of unbeaten Las Vegas-based fighters, junior flyweight Yadira Bustillo (3-0, 1 KO) and featherweight Ezquiel Borrero (3-0, 1 KO), respectively, against Dana Fraire (1-0) Miguel Angel Nides (0-1-1) in 4-round matches.

Card subject to change.

INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ufcfightpass.com

Facebook: /UFCFightPass, /KeithVeltre

Twitter: @UFCFightPass, @Keith_Veltre, @RoyjonesJRfa @RoyJonesJrOfficial

Instagram: @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre, @RoyJonesJrBoxing

ABOUT ROY JONES JR, BOXING PROMOTIONS: Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. RJJ has already made a huge impact in the boxing community in a few short years. Creating exhilarating content for UFC Fight Pass, CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in some of the finest venues across the country, RJJ has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.

Based in the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, NV, Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions is climbing to the top at a fast pace, adding young talent to its growing stable: NABF super flyweight champion, IBF #8 and WBC # 14 Jade “Hurricane” Bornea (15-0, 10 KOs); two-time world title challenger, bantamweight “Mighty” Aston Palicte (26-4-1, 22 KOs); NABF welterweight champion, WBC #15 and Santiago “Somer” Dominguez (24-0, 18 KOs); former NABA welterweight champion Kendo “Tremendo” Castaneda (17-3, 8 KOs), former Interim World middleweight title challenger John “The Phenom” Vera (20-1, 12 KO), unbeaten super middleweight prospect Juan “Just Business” Barajas (11-0-1, 7 KOs), and former WBC World Youth heavyweight titlist Alexander “The Great” Flores (18-3-1, 16 KOs).

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS®: UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, UFC FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. UFC FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. UFC FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 20,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access UFC FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.