In an unexpected twist, Angelo Leo, a lesser-known fighter with a record of 25 wins and 1 loss with 12 knockouts, achieved a remarkable victory over IBF featherweight champion Luis Alberto ‘Venado’ Lopez, who had a record of 30 wins, 3 losses, and 17 knockouts. The knockout occurred in the tenth round of their match on Saturday night at the Tingley Coliseum in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Even though Lopez was slightly trailing on two scorecards with scores of 85-86, 85-86, and leading on the third with a score of 86-85, Leo managed to land a decisive left hook in the tenth round that sent Lopez crashing to the floor. The fight was promptly stopped at 1:16 of the tenth round as Lopez was unable to continue following the devastating punch.
Referee Earnie Shariff should have halted the fight sooner, as Lopez was clearly not fit to carry on. Lopez had difficulty getting back on his feet even after the fight was declared over.
Leo, despite being the underdog, displayed superior boxing skills against Lopez and endured some powerful punches from his opponent. The support of the local crowd seemed to energize Leo, helping him absorb Lopez’s attacks and ultimately emerge victorious.
It is currently unclear whether there is a provision for a rematch in the agreement between Leo and Lopez. This fight was an optional defense for Lopez against the #10 ranked Leo, suggesting a possible rematch clause. Should a rematch occur, it will be intriguing to see if it takes place again in Leo’s hometown.
Highlights from the undercard matches include:
- Lindolfo Delgado, with a record of 21 wins and no losses, secured a victory over Bryan Flores (26 wins, 1 loss, 1 draw) through a unanimous decision in a Junior Welterweight bout.
- Matthew Griego, undefeated with 14 wins and 10 knockouts, triumphed over Gilberto Mendoza (23 wins, 18 losses, 4 draws) in a Flyweight rematch.
- Vito Mielnicki Jr., with 19 wins and 1 loss with 12 knockouts, claimed a disqualification win against Laszlo Toth (32 wins, 9 losses, 2 draws) in a Junior Middleweight fight in his debut with Top Rank.
