Negotiations Underway for a Sunny Edwards – Julio Cesar Martinez Flyweight Unification Fight
In no uncertain terms, IBF world flyweight champion Sunny Edwards (17-0, 4 KOs) has visions of a unification bout in 2022. Specifically, the British fighter wants a fight against WBC world flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez (18-1, 14 KOs).
Following a win over then-mandatory challenger Jayson Mama, Edwards has been dogmatic about his pursuit to face the hard-hitting Mexican. The interest seems mutual as Martinez has also expressed an interest in the fight.
It now looks like seeds are being planted to make it a reality. According to British Boxing News, negotiations have begun. Signs are positive that a deal will be reached, with the two men facing later in 2022. For Edwards, he wants the biggest and best in the division.
LOOKING FOR THE BIG FISH
“I want to unify, and I want the Ring Magazine number one. I want Martinez; he’s the guy. I called him after the fight. I’ve cleared up my mandatory, and I’ve got a voluntary next, let’s get it. I want the big fights.
I know Martinez is a level above Mama but he is also similar. Martinez lets big shots go, just like him, but he is a lot more ruthless and relentless. But, he is also a lot more wild. You see, every time an opponent telegraphs these big shots, like power punchers do, that I always find a way to get out of the way of it.
I went twelve rounds against Mama and barely took a shot. Edwards-Martinez is the highest-profile fight in the division. If it got made next week, it would make a little splash in world boxing.”
Edwards is more right than wrong when he claims a match with Martinez is the biggest fight in the division. The WBC champ has established a following with fans of the lower-weight divisions over the past two years due to his exciting style. The two other world champions in the division, WBO flyweight champion Junto Nakatani and WBA champ Artem Dalakian, are both excellent fighters. However, they are not as known to the masses as the other champions.
POLAR OPPOSITES IN APPROACH
On paper, it would be the ultimate contrast. You have the fleet-footed boxer in Edwards versus the attacking Martinez. As proven in his victory over Moruti Mthalane to win the IBF belt and his title defense against Mama, the IBF champion is hard to hit. He frustrates opponents with his movement and sudden bursts of punches.
By comparison, Martinez is effectively awkward, throwing punches from angles that most opponents do not anticipate. He’s bullish in the ring and loves to pound the body. The defense is far from great, and his chin is somewhat suspect. However, he compensates with his pressure, punching power, and a mile-long mean streak. It would be intriguing to see which fighter would impose their styles. Stay tuned to 3KingsBoxing for further updates.
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By: Michael Wilson Jr.
