(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Carlos Canizales Shines with Knockout Win, Prograis Edges Diaz in Weekend Boxing Highlights
The boxing world delivered high drama and action this weekend with several key matchups across the globe.
Canizales Captures WBC Junior Flyweight Title
In Caracas, Venezuela, Carlos Canizales delivered a statement performance by knocking out Petchmanee CP Freshmart in the fifth round, avenging a previous defeat and capturing the WBC junior flyweight title. The emphatic win pushed Canizales into ESPN’s top five in the division, while dethroned champion Freshmart fell out of the rankings.
Oscar Duarte Overcomes Kenneth Sims Jr. in Chicago
Over in Chicago, Oscar Duarte secured a hard-fought majority decision victory over Kenneth Sims Jr. in a WBA junior welterweight title eliminator. Duarte’s aggressive style and relentless pressure proved decisive in a tightly contested bout, positioning him as a strong contender to face champion Gary Antuanne Russell in the near future.
Despite the victory, both Duarte and Sims remain outside ESPN’s top 10 rankings at 140 pounds.
Regis Prograis Edges Jojo Diaz in Action-Packed Co-Main Event
The most electrifying bout of the weekend came courtesy of Regis Prograis and Joseph “Jojo” Diaz in a junior welterweight clash that lived up to expectations. With both former champions hungry for redemption, the 10-round showdown featured thrilling exchanges and dramatic momentum shifts.
Diaz started strong, rocking Prograis in the opening round with a sharp left hand. Despite suffering a nasty cut above his left eye in Round 4, Diaz showed resilience, pressing forward and landing clean shots throughout the fight.
However, Prograis showcased a sharp jab and smart footwork, controlling the distance and racking up points from the outside. The judges scored it 98-92, 96-94, and 96-94 in favor of Prograis, who snapped a losing skid following defeats to Devin Haney and Jack Catterall.
Post-Fight Reaction
“I felt like I won the fight,” Prograis said. “My jab was landing all night. He caught me early, but I recovered and stuck to the game plan.”
Both fighters remain just outside ESPN’s top 10 at junior welterweight, but their performances suggest they could re-enter the title mix with another big win.
ESPN Rankings Reminder
ESPN’s boxing rankings are updated based on recent performances. Fighters are moved only after competing in their new weight class, and inactivity or failed drug tests can result in removal from the rankings.
Stay tuned as the boxing landscape continues to shift with every bout.
