Rafael Espinoza is gearing up to protect his WBO featherweight championship against Sergio Chirino in an all-Mexico face-off scheduled for June 21. The showdown will feature a 12-round bout as the main event of an ESPN+ card promoted by Top Rank at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas.
The event will not only showcase the title fight but also present two thrilling ten-round matches. Las Vegas contender Andres Cortes will take on former title challenger Abraham Nova in a junior lightweight bout, while Troy Isley will square off against Javier Martinez in a clash of undefeated middleweight prospects.
Espinoza, from Guadalajara, will be aiming to make his first title defense after snagging the crown from Robeisy Ramirez in a memorable bout last December. Despite being knocked down, the 30-year-old secured a surprising victory, earning the distinction of being the tallest world featherweight titleholder at 6’1”.
Chirino boasts a record of 22-1 with 13 knockouts and is determined to make history as the first fighter from Oaxaca to claim a world title. He is confident that his Mexican fighting spirit will guide him to triumph over Espinoza.
The event will not just stop at the main event but will also showcase Nova and Cortes in separate fights, as they position themselves for future title shots.
The clash between Isley and Martinez, who have a tied past of two wins each in their four amateur encounters, adds an intriguing element to the event. Isley, mentored by Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre, will go up against Martinez, who is guided by Robert Garcia.
Promising an action-filled spectacle for boxing enthusiasts, the event brings a stacked card and thrilling matchups. Bob Arum, the chairman of Top Rank, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, acknowledging the talent and expertise of the fighters set to compete.
Espinoza, stepping into his fourth fight in the U.S., anticipates demonstrating his resilience and determination in defending his title against the formidable Chirino. The stage is set for a fierce showdown between two Mexican fighters striving for featherweight supremacy.
