WBO featherweight world champion Rafael Espinoza prepares for the third defense of his title tonight against Edward Vazquez. The bout takes place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Cinco de Mayo weekend. It serves as the co-main event on the Naoya Inoue versus Ramon Cardenas fight card.
Espinoza, who stands 6-foot-1, utilizes his height and reach advantage in the ring. He maintains a high-volume attack, throwing nearly 70 punches per round according to Compubox. The Mexican fighter holds a professional record of 26-0 with 22 knockouts.
Espinoza captured the WBO featherweight title in December 2023 by defeating Robeisy Ramirez. He overcame an early knockdown in that contest, ultimately scoring his own knockdown late in the fight to secure the win. He defeated Ramirez again in a subsequent bout.
His opponent, Edward Vazquez, enters the fight with a record of 17-2. Vazquez acknowledges Espinoza's status as champion but questions his experience fighting opponents outside of Mexico, particularly American fighters. Vazquez noted Espinoza's initial struggle with Ramirez's style compared to that of Mexican fighters.
Vazquez, a Mexican-American fighter, previously faced defeats against Raymond Ford and Joe Cordina. He refers to these as "blemishes" and states he has made adjustments to his game since then. Vazquez views his current position as an underdog on a major fight night positively.
Naoya Inoue, the undisputed junior featherweight champion, has discussed moving up to the featherweight division in the future. This potential move opens the door for a possible matchup with Rafael Espinoza.
Espinoza has expressed significant interest in facing Inoue, viewing it as a dream fight that would elevate his career and status within Mexican boxing. Both fighters are promoted by Top Rank, which could simplify negotiations for a future bout.
The styles of both Espinoza and Vazquez suggest an action-packed fight tonight. Vazquez anticipates a "Mexican shootout" or a "war" that will test both fighters' resolve.
Vazquez feels the pressure rests on the champion. āAll the pressureās on him, man. Iām just over here chilling,ā Vazquez told BoxingScene.
