Fight results

One of the most technically intriguing matchups of the March 1 tournament in Brooklyn. Two fighters who sometimes mirror each other in the ring—masters of counterattacks at unexpected moments, capitalizing on opponents' mistakes, and slipping out of danger just when it seems they’ve been cornered.

Martín gained the most recognition after his fight against Teofimo Lopez. He lost that bout, but his performance was impressive. He didn’t seem to do anything spectacular, yet Lopez had to struggle. Sandor possesses excellent timing and agility, making him a difficult puzzle to solve. He lands his shots precisely when needed—whether he’s initiating the attack or countering his opponent’s errors.

Puello, in many ways, shares these qualities. However, Alberto has an added advantage—his size. His long reach ensures that opponents constantly run into his counters. His footwork allows him to strike, evade the attack line, strike again, and only then break the distance. Even the previously undefeated Gary Russell Jr. couldn’t manage to cut him off effectively in their fight.

Puello is 30, Martín is 31. The perfect age to win titles, defend them, and remain at the top.

In terms of high-profile opponents, Sandor has faced more of them—he retired Mikey Garcia and was close to beating Teofimo Lopez. However, overall, Puello’s record is just as strong as the Spaniard’s.

Puello is the busier fighter in the ring. He throws a high volume of punches, even when fighting off the back foot. He takes control of exchanges and lands in combinations.

Martín, however, is all about defensive boxing. Even when counterpunching—which both fighters frequently do—styles can vary, and Sandor’s fights lean more toward a defensive approach compared to Puello’s. The Spaniard throws fewer punches but has superior accuracy, which is the key to his success.

This factor does not favor Martín. Sandor hasn’t fought since 2023. Even compared to Puello—who last fought twice in a single year back in 2021—his activity level appears low.

Moreover, in his previous fight, Alberto became a champion by outboxing the dangerous Gary Russell Jr. Martín won both of his 2023 bouts by stoppage, but his last elite-level opponent was Teofimo Lopez in 2022.

Neither of these fighters are known for knockouts, yet both are dangerous in their own way. Their accuracy and timing make them a threat. Both have the ability to score knockdowns, but the question is whether they can secure a stoppage victory, given their styles.

Puello’s last knockout victory came in 2020. Martín managed to stop opponents in 2023, but the level of opposition raises questions.

Alberto Puello remains undefeated in his career. Sandor Martín has three losses, but none by stoppage, and he has never been knocked down.

Their defensive skills are the primary reason for their resilience. Both fighters excel at defensive tactics, making them a nightmare to deal with. Even Gary Russell Jr., who had a 100% knockout rate before facing Puello, couldn’t land effectively against him.

A Dominican fighter who has been competing in the U.S. since 2021, Puello will feel right at home. However, this is unlikely to be a decisive factor. Martín had no issues fighting in New York against Teofimo Lopez, knocking him down and remaining composed throughout. The crowd or the judges won’t be his primary concern.

What should concern him is his opponent. Coming back from the Lopez defeat with two knockouts was great, but that was a while ago. For Martín, this fight is a major return to the spotlight.

Puello, on the other hand, is in full fighting form, holding a title in a division that could soon see the departure of its biggest stars—potentially opening the door for him to claim multiple belts. But can he successfully track down his opponent?

Expecting Martín to take the initiative is unrealistic. His game is counterattacks, defense, and sharp counters. He won’t chase Puello around the ring, which means the champion will have to take the lead.

An intriguing matchup that promises a high-level tactical battle with potential surprises.