Potential Santillan vs Giyasov Bout Could Become WBO Title Bout
Top welterweight contender Giovanni “Gallo De Oro” Santillan (32-0, 17KO) could next fight for the WBO world championship. In addition, he could face the number-two WBO contender, Shakhram “Wonder Boy” Giyasov (15-0, 9KO).
THE DOMINO EFFECT
With unified champion Terence “Bud” Crawford looking to exit the division, plenty of opportunities will open up for several fighters. Gallo De Oro is one of those that could benefit from such an opportunity. The undefeated southpaw has risen in the world rankings under the Top Rank banner since 2020.
Santillan’s most recent outing was in October 2023, when he defeated Alexis Rocha with relative ease, scoring an impressive sixth-round stoppage. Immediately following that victory, the boxing world believed he deserved a title shot. The rumor is that the Californian will return to action in May against an opponent to be named.
When looking at the WBO 147-pound landscape, the sanctioning body could order a fight between Santillan and Wonder Boy. Giyasov was a decorated amateur with plenty of international experience and competed in the World Series of Boxing.
After entering the professional ranks, he inked a deal with Matchroom Promotions and has managed to grab a number-one ranking with the WBA. In his last outing, Giyasov dominated Pablo Cesar Cano before the fight ended due to an injury.
Change and transition are two words synonymous with this sport. It appears it’s on the precipice of occurring again when it comes to the WBO welterweight title.
