Robson Conceicao Reveals a Burning Desire to Get Redemption Against Oscar Valdez
In Tulsa, Oklahoma, live on ESPN, Robson Conceicao (17-1, 8 KOs) impressively defeated previously undefeated Xavier Martinez (17-1, 11 KOs) in a WBC junior lightweight title eliminator. After some shaky moments in round three, the 33-year-old took control during the middle rounds and dominated down the stretch. With the win, he will become the WBC mandatory challenger at 130 pounds.
It was Conceicao’s first outing since a controversial defeat to current WBC junior lightweight champ Oscar Valdez (30-0, 23 KOs) in September of 2021. Following the victory over Martinez, the fighter from Brazil was asked about his future. It wasn’t long before the WBC 130-pound champ’s name came up during the post-fight interview with ESPN.
EYES ON ONE FIGHTER
“I know I should be the champion, I know I beat Oscar Valdez, and he’s got a fight against Shakur Stevenson. I think that Shakur’s going to win. But as a fan and as a fighter, I want Oscar Valdez to win because he owes me a fight and that’s why I want Oscar Valdez to win. Although I see it as a tough fight”
Indeed, Valdez is scheduled to face WBO champ Stevenson (17-0, 9 KOs) in a junior lightweight unification showdown on April 30. It’s certainly understandable why Conceicao is rooting for Valdez.
His fight was mired in controversy in and out of the ring. Prior to their battle, Valdez failed a pre-fight drug test. But an independent athletic commission allowed him to defend the title. In the ring, Conceicao got off to a terrific start. Valdez had difficulty dealing with the boxing skills and movement of the 2016 Olympic Gold medalist.
The champ began to rally late in the fight and had his hand raised in victory. However, more than a few fans believe he received a gift decision.
DRIVEN BY REVENGE
Conceicao said he used that experience as fuel for his performance against Martinez. He left one final message, emphatically stating what’s first and foremost on his mind.
“I’m a world champion level fighter, and I definitely want Oscar Valdez”.
To say that Robson Conceicao is a motivated fighter is a great understatement. He knows what he wants and seems he will not rest until he gets it.
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By: Michael Wilson Jr.
