Santa Cruz v Flores
Attempting to win a world title in his fourth weight class, Leo Santa Cruz would have to get by a very hungry and motivated Miguel Flores.
Rounds 1-4
In the early portion of the fight, Flores came pumping his jab that would occasionally set up his right-hand and left hook. Santa Cruz, an all-action fighter, would carefully pick his shots, being mindful that he’s new to the weight class.
The highlight of the first four rounds came in round three as Santa Cruz would land a nice counter right-hand that would get the attention of Flores.
Rounds 5-8
By round five, Santa Cruz would hit his groove. He would start to gradually increase his punch output and pressure. His right and left hands started forcing Flores to retreat backwards with a high guard.
Flores seemed to get on the board with a strong showing in round seven, as he landed some nice body shots. In round eight however, Flores would be deducted a point by referee Tony Weeks for excessive holding.
Rounds 9-12
Round nine would see yet again Santa Cruz be the aggressor and land the harder shots, evident by the continued holding and lack of punch output Flores.
Santa Cruz would suffer a cut over his left eye after he and Flores’ heads came together in round ten.
Both men had a solid showing in the twelfth and final round and each would trade big shots to close it out.
115-112 and 117-110 (twice) would be in the favor of Santa Cruz by way of a unanimous decision. He is now the WBA super junior lightweight champion and a four-division world champion.
Afterwards, he called out both Gary Russell Jr and Gervonta Davis. Hopefully he and Gary Russell finally lock horns to settle their beef.
By: Jerrell Fletcher
