Angel Ayala Within Striking Distance of a WBC or IBF Title Shot
Flyweight Angel Ayala (17-0, 7KO) is on the cusp of a title opportunity following a contentious victory over former world champion Felix “El Gemelo” Alvarado (39-4, 34KO). The undefeated Mexican fighter is now in contention for either the WBC or IBF title.
In a bout brimming with drama, Ayala weathered a first-round knockdown and a cut over his left eye in a relentless battle against Alvarado. The experienced veteran unleashed a flurry of tactics and fought like a Tasmanian devil, but Ayala, displaying unwavering resolve, refused to yield under the pressure and continued to fight with determination until the final bell.
However, the most perplexing moment came when the ring announcer initially declared Alvarado as the victor, only to promptly correct himself, revealing that the judges had scored the contest 114-113 in favor of Ayala.
WHICH BELT TO FIGHT FOR NEXT?
Love it or not, Ayala, the victor of the IBF title eliminator, is now one step closer to a title bout. He has the option fight the winner of the upcoming unification fight between champions Sunny Edwards and Jesse Rodriguez on December 16. As a second option, he could face WBC champion Julio Cesar Martinez, since Ayala is currently ranked number one by the WBC. He earned the right to fight for the title after a decisive eliminator victory against former champion Cristofer Rosales in April 2022.
A potential showdown with Martinez promises to be a blockbuster event, especially in Mexico, the home country of both fighters. Fans would flock to the arena to witness this clash. It remains to be seen what the team at Golden Boy Promotions will decide to be Ayala’s next move.
