Universal Promotions made a grand return to the “Capital City” with Puerto Rico’s finest boxing showcase, “UP Boxing Series: Night of Champions,” at the cozy confines of Coliseito Pedrín Zorrilla in San Juan.
The night was exctiing from the get-go with an enthralling fight featuring the charismatic bantamweight sensation from Bayamón, Juan “Juancito” Zayas (9-0-1, 8KO’s), who skillfully defended his undefeated streak. He outclassed Venezuelan fighter, Carlos “El Pirata” Mujica (8-5, 2KO’s), with a unanimous decision win, showcasing his superior boxing finesse against a fierce Mujica, determined to spoil the Puerto Rican’s evening. The judges scorecards: 80-72, 79-73, and 78-74 in favor of Zayas.
Néstor Bravo (23-0, 16KO’s) defended his WBA Continental Americas super lightweight title (140 lbs) with a crushing two-round victory over Paraguayan, Carlos “Carpi” Portillo (23-5, 17KO’s). Bravo stormed out with aggression from the first bell, eager to affirm his world contender status. Landing heavy blows, Bravo floored Portillo three times in the opener and once more in the second round, compelling the referee to call off the bout.
John “El Terrible” Bauza (18-1, 8KO’s) marked a thunderous return to the ring in the super lightweight division, obliterating Venezuelan boxer Willmank Canónico (12-5-2, 10KO’s) with a devastating right hook to the head in the first round.
Alfredo “El Salsero” Cruz (9-2-1, 5KO’s) from San Juan, in the super bantamweight division (122 lbs), took complete control against Alberto “Pupo” Nieves (6-4-1, 4KO’s). Cruz’s corner halted the fight in the fifth round, unable to withstand the onslaught.
Jean Carlos Cabral (6-0, 3KO’s), the promising super welterweight prospect from Santurce (154 lbs), faced the toughest challenge of his young career. Utilizing his defensive skills and reach advantage, Cabral secured a unanimous decision victory over American fighter, Quontez “King Moo” McRath (10-2, 5KO’s).
In an exhilarating match, Bayamón’s super bantamweight Jayron “El Fenix” Santiago (12-10-1, 6KO’s) maintained his impressive form, outpointing veteran American boxer Ira Terry with a unanimous decision. Santiago floored Terry in the third and fifth rounds, with scores of 60-52 (twice) and 59-53.
The undercard saw Edgar Morales (2-0, 2KO’s) finish Dan Navarro in the second round, while Julien López (4-0, 3KO’s) rebounded from an early knockdown to dispatch Ricardo Vásquez in the fifth. Meanwhile, Chris “El Alfa” Vélez made a bittersweet debut, drawing in a fierce clash with Juan Carlos Montañez.
Stay tuned to Universal Promotions’ social media for all the details on the return of “The Best Boxing in Puerto Rico” with thrilling line-ups slated for the summer months.