Valenzuela is the new WBA light welterweight champion
In the early hours of August 4 in Los Angeles, USA, on the undercard of the Terence Crawford vs. Israil Madrimov fight, a bout took place between Mexicans Isaac Cruz (26-3-1, 18 KOs) and Jose Valenzuela (14-2, 9 KOs). This bout served as the co-main event of the night. The WBA Junior Welterweight (up to 63.5 kg) title was on the line, a title Cruz won five months ago by knocking out Rolando Romero.
For most of the fight, Cruz aggressively pressured his opponent with hooks and uppercuts. The difference in size was evident – Valenzuela had a height advantage of 15 cm and a reach advantage of 18 cm. However, this did not deter Cruz, who had previously overcome opponents with significant physical advantages through his relentless activity and pressure.
Valenzuela, on the other hand, executed a technically excellent fight. He moved smartly on his feet, countered effectively with uppercuts, and tied up Cruz when in danger.
The result of the bout: 115-113 (Cruz), and twice 116-112 (Valenzuela). Jose Valenzuela becomes the new WBA Junior Welterweight champion by split decision.
Judge's notes
Fight Statistics
Valenzuela – New WBA Junior Welterweight Champion
A highly intelligent fight by the Mexican. Isaac Cruz pressed throughout, trying to overwhelm his opponent but was repeatedly countered and outmaneuvered by Valenzuela's superior footwork.
Judges' verdict: 116-112 (Valenzuela), 115-113 (Cruz).
Cruz landed 118 punches out of 521 thrown (22.6%). Valenzuela landed 171 out of 516 thrown (33.1%).
Isaac barely used his jab – only 6 landed out of 108 thrown (5.6%). Valenzuela landed 33 jabs out of 179 thrown (18.4%).
Cruz landed 112 power punches out of 413 thrown (27.1%). Valenzuela landed 138 power punches out of 337 thrown (40.9%).
Isaac Cruz landed 63 body shots. Valenzuela landed 37 body shots.
What’s Next
Isaac Cruz expressed his desire for a rematch right from the ring, even appealing to Turki Alalshikh for it. Considering that the Saudi Arabian event organizer wishes to continue working with Isaac and was pleased with the fight, a rematch is highly likely.