Santa Cruz keeps featherweight title by unanimous decision
Mexico’s Leo Santa Cruz defended his World Boxing Association featherweight title on Saturday, dominating compatriot Rafael Rivera to win on a unanimous 12-round decision. All three judges gave Santa Cruz the victory by scores of 119-109 as the champion improved to 36-1-1, marking the third defence in his second reign in the division. “I tried to give my best. I did what I could,” Santa Cruz said. “I’d like to give a lot better but Rafael is pretty good. It was a tough fight.” Santa Cruz took inspiration from his father and trainer Jose Santa Cruz, who is battling bone-marrow cancer. “It means the world to me [to have my father in my corner],” he said. “When I climb in the ring, I don’t want to let my dad down. I want to inspire him to keep fighting the cancer.” Rivera, who fell to 26-3 with two drawn, was a late fill-in for his first world title bout after original challenger Miguel Flores suffered an ankle injury in January. Santa Cruz worked on Rivera’s body from the opening roun...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.