In a spectacular show of power and precision, Mexican boxer Jaime Munguia (43-0) defeated British fighter John Ryder (32-7, 18 KOs) at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona. The fight took place this past Saturday, and it was one for the books as Munguia dropped Ryder four times before ultimately achieving a ninth-round stoppage.
The super middleweight contest showcased Munguia's dominance right from the early moments. In the second round, Munguia delivered his first knockdown with a right hand that set the tone for the match. He followed up with another knockdown in the fourth round, using a powerful left hand that further weakened Ryder's stance.
By the ninth round, Munguia had fully taken control of the bout. An overhand right sent Ryder to the canvas once more before a follow-up left to the body secured Munguia's position. At 1:25 into round nine, Ryder’s corner decided they’d seen enough and threw in the towel, awarding Munguia with a TKO victory.
Munguia reflected on his victory in his post-fight interview:
"I worked really hard for this. I know a lot of people didn’t believe in me, but this is the result of hard work. We’re ready for 168."
He further praised his improved performance compared to his last fight against Sergiy Derevyanchenko:
"Last time [against Sergiy Derevyanchenko], I was throwing punches like crazy, but this time my timing was perfect. Ryder was a great fighter, but we’re ready to keep on going."
Munguia is now eyeing an even bigger opportunity against a renowned opponent on Cinco de Mayo. When speaking about potentially facing Canelo Alvarez, he stated, "It would be a great fight for Mexico. If Canelo gives us the chance, it would be an honor to be in the same ring as him."
Undercard Highlights
The card featured several other notable fights leading up to the main event:
- Oscar Collazo defended his WBO minimumweight title against Reyneris Gutierrez with an impressive third-round TKO at 2:37.
- In an IBF flyweight title defense, Gabriela Fundora came out victorious over Christina Cruz by tenth-round TKO at 0:59.
- Alan Picasso Romero earned a unanimous decision win over Erik Ruiz (99-91, 98-92, 98-92) in their super bantamweight bout.
- Darius Fulghum defeated Alantez Fox by majority decision (100-90, 98-92, 95-95) in their super middleweight match-up.
- Gregory Morales clinched a unanimous decision victory over Ronal Ron in an eight-round featherweight clash.
- Gael Cabrera outpointed Miguel Ceballos by unanimous decision after six rounds in their bantamweight contest.
- Daniel Garcia made short work of Daniel Lugo in their super featherweight fight with Garcia knocking out Lugo in the first round.
- Likewise, Jonathan Canas finished off Kameeko Hall with a knockout in just one round during their lightweight encounter.
As boxing fans anticipate what may come next for these athletes, especially Munguia's potential future matchup against Canelo Alvarez, there's no doubt that exciting times lie ahead for boxing enthusiasts around the world.
