Andreev out; Pedraza back in!
Sometimes in boxing making a fight can be like a merry-go-round ride. Earlier it was anticipated that newly crowned WBO champion Ray Beltran, would be making his first title defense against former IBF junior lightweight champion Jose Pedraza.
That was short lived as the WBO ordered Beltran to make a mandatory defense against #1 ranked challenger Roman Andreev. Top Rank won the purse bid and was ready to showcase this fight.
Andreev, a 32 year-old Russian native, had to pull out due to an operation to remove his appendix.
So as fate would have it Pedraza is now in the picture being the #2 ranked fighter by the WBO. This is a great opportunity for him since losing the IBF title to Gervonta Davis back in 2017. He has been looking for another chance at a major title, compiling a two fight win streak in the process.
Beltran, a 36 year-old Mexican fighter, once upon a time thought about quitting boxing – having no green card and some questionable decisions against him. However, fast forward to today, after compiling a five fight win streak. That eventually lead to a title shot and seizing that moment, he is one of the most inspirational figures in boxing today.
Pedraza is looking to recapture the magic and become a champion again while Beltran isn’t trying to let the dream end now.
This is the classic rivalry fight of Mexico vs Puerto Rico.
ESPN will televise this fight August 25 at the Gile River Arena in Glendale, Arizona
By: Garrisson “Bo” Bland
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