This Friday, boxing enthusiasts across the United States will have the chance to witness a pivotal title bout, as ESPN Deportes is set to broadcast the highly anticipated rematch between Panya Pradabsri and Carlos Canizales. Following DAZN's recent broadcast of a significant Yokohama tripleheader, this move by ESPN Deportes ensures that stateside viewers can catch another major boxing event. The fight, which will determine the WBC light flyweight champion, is scheduled to commence at 11:00 PM Eastern, offering a thrilling start to the weekend for combat sports aficionados.
Panya Pradabsri, with an impressive record of 44 wins and only 2 losses, previously held the minimumweight title for an extended period, having triumphantly claimed it from Wanheng Menayothin. His reign, however, concluded when he suffered a defeat to Yudai Shigeoka in a challenging away fixture. With Kenshiro Teraji's transition to the 112-pound division, the light flyweight belt became vacant. Pradabsri then faced Carlos Canizales, who boasts a record of 27 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw, in a contest for the unclaimed title. This initial encounter, held in Pradabsri's hometown of Bangkok, concluded with a contentious decision that many observers deemed a result of favorable officiating, earning the ire of the World Boxing Council.
The controversy surrounding their first fight was significant enough for the WBC to mandate an immediate rematch. This time, the stage is set in Canizales' home territory of Caracas, Venezuela, promising a different atmosphere and potentially a more decisive outcome. The relocation of the fight adds another layer of intrigue, as both fighters will undoubtedly be looking to leave no doubt as to who the rightful champion is. Fans can anticipate an intense and hard-fought battle, as both pugilists aim to settle their rivalry and firmly establish their dominance in the light flyweight division.
This upcoming fight is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates high-stakes boxing, delivering an engaging spectacle for Friday night viewing.