In a thrilling and competitive fight, Angelino “Huracán” Cordova (18-0-1, 12 KOs) from Caracas, Venezuela, shocked the boxing world by defeating former World Champion Angel “Tito” Acosta (23-4, 22 KOs) from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and claiming the WBO International Flyweight Title. The 10-round bout went the distance and showcased the skills and heart of both fighters, who exchanged punches throughout the night. Cordova had to overcome a cut over his left eye in the third round and a point deduction in the fourth round for hitting behind the head. The judges scored the fight unanimously in favor of Cordova with scores of 93-96, 95-94, and 95-94. The event was broadcast live on DAZN from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.
Cordova, who was undefeated with 18 wins and one draw, came into the fight as an underdog against Acosta, who was a former world champion with 23 wins and 3 losses. Acosta was known for his knockout power, having stopped 22 of his opponents. However, Cordova showed that he was not intimidated by Acosta’s reputation and he fought with skill and heart.
The fight was a close and competitive affair, with both fighters landing hard shots and exchanging flurries. Cordova used his speed and movement to avoid Acosta’s power punches and he countered with sharp combinations. Acosta tried to pressure Cordova and cut off the ring, but he had trouble finding his range and timing. Cordova also showed his toughness, as he suffered a cut over his left eye in the third round and a point deduction in the fourth round for hitting behind the head.
“I feel very happy and proud of this victory, it was a great fight between two warriors in the ring,” said Angelino Cordova. “It was not an easy fight, I had to use a lot of intelligence and strategy. I think I was able to land my punches effectively and move around well. I am ready for whatever opportunity comes next.”
“I am very frustrated with the outcome of this fight,” said Angel Acosta. “I worked hard in training camp and I showed it in the ring. Cordova was a tough opponent, but he kept hitting me behind the head. I’m going to take a short break and then get back to work. I feel like I won this fight, I want the rematch.”
The night also featured several celebrities and boxing stars in attendance, such as Game of Thrones actor Allen Alfie, Mariana “Barby” Juarez, Gabriel Rosado, and many Golden Boy fighters including Bektemir Melikuziev, Alexis Rocha, Johnny Cañas, Ricardo Sandoval, Manuel “Gucci Manny” Flores, among others.
In the co-main event, Jorge “El Niño Dorado” Chavez (6-0, 5 KOs) from San Diego delivered a fifth-round knockout against Alberto “Pupo” Nieves (4-3-1, 2 KOs) from Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. The fight was scheduled for six rounds in the featherweight division, but Chavez ended it with a devastating body shot that dropped Nieves at 1:34 of the fifth round.
“I feel great. It was the first time I felt like I had to dig deep and show my character. He was a tough opponent who came to fight. I’m happy with my performance and I want to thank my team and Golden Boy for this opportunity.”