After two long decades, Nicaragua – a land known for its breathtaking volcanoes and pristine lakes – once again becomes the epicenter for a world title boxing match featuring its own talent. The WBO Jr Flyweight champion, Jonathan “Bomba” Gonzalez (27-3-1) from Caguas, Puerto Rico, is gearing up for his third title defense. Stepping into the opposite corner is Gerardo “Cascabel” Zapata. The bout is set for October 27th at the Alexis Arguello Sports Complex in Managua, Nicaragua. For those unable to attend, the fight will be broadcast live at 9 PM/EDT on ESPN+ for viewers in the USA, including Puerto Rico, and will be aired on ESPN Knockout for the entirety of Latin America.
Tuto Zabala Jr, President of All Star Boxing, expressed his excitement, “We’re back on October 27 with a boxing card that packs a punch – headlined by a world title fight and several regional belts up for grabs. Our previous stint in Managua was in December 2009, a show that spotlighted two world title fights and witnessed the ascent of numerous prospects.”
WBO Jr Flyweight champion Jonathan “Bomba” Gonzalez of Caguas, Puerto Rico, is now set to defend his title against WBO #14 ranked Nicaraguan contender Gerardo “Cascabel” Zapata.
Originally, Leyman Benavides was the one to square off against Gonzalez, but due to health concerns, he’s been forced to pull out. “Benavides fell ill and will not be able to fight Gonzalez,” shared Tuto Zabala Jr, President of ASB. He further added that while Zapata was preparing for a rematch in the co-main event, this match against Gonzalez was the one he’d always dreamt of.
Jonathan “Bomba” Gonzalez is not new to such last-minute switch-ups. Having faced various fighting styles before, he remains confident and unshaken. He recalls his successful defense against former Olympian southpaw Mark Anthony Barriga, emphasizing his adaptability. “My team and I are well-prepared. We’ve reviewed Zapata’s style and are eager to get back into the ring,” said the WBO champion. He remains confident, asserting that Zapata’s southpaw style is nothing he hasn’t seen before.
For Gerardo “Cascabel” Zapata, this is the golden opportunity he’s been waiting for. With a home advantage, he’s determined to showcase his skills, especially after facing a controversial decision in Panama against Azael Villar and a debatable DQ against Rene Santiago in the Dominican Republic. “Destiny has put me in this position,” he emphasized. “I was robbed of a win against Villar which would’ve gotten me the fight with Gonzalez. But now, the chance is here, and I won’t let my hometown down.”
Fight enthusiasts can look forward to 8 additional thrilling bouts on the card. The event will be aired live at 9 PM/ EDT on ESPN+ (for the USA & Puerto Rico) and ESPN Knockout (for Latin America). All Star Boxing, Inc. will be promoting this much-anticipated event.