On a vibrant night in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, boxing fans witnessed a monumental showdown during the highly anticipated “Latino Night” card. The event spotlighted Oscar Collazo, a rising star from Puerto Rico, who faced off against Thailand’s long-reigning minimumweight champion, Knockout CP Freshmart. This unification bout was more than just a stage for two talented pugilists; it was a chance for Collazo to defend his WBO title and dethrone Freshmart, who had held the WBA belt for an impressive eight years.
As the fight commenced, both fighters showcased their unique styles; Collazo’s southpaw stance contrasted with Freshmart’s orthodox approach. It was clear right from the beginning that tensions were high, setting the stage for a gritty battle.
Initially, the fight unfolded at a measured pace. However, the dynamic quickly shifted as Collazo settled into his rhythm, displaying a striking level of precision and command. The turning point came in the sixth round when Collazo, exploiting a gap in Freshmart’s defense, landed a powerful right hook that sent the champion to the canvas. Freshmart, known for his resilience, managed to rise and retaliate, showcasing his strength as he attempted to regain his footing in the match.
Despite flashes of brilliance from Freshmart—such as effective body work and the occasional barrage of punches—Collazo maintained strategic superiority throughout the fight. His activity and sharpness in the ring were evident as he effectively outmaneuvered Freshmart, compelling the Thai fighter to play defense. As Collazo’s confidence grew, so did his aggression.
The seventh round was marked by sheer exhilaration. Collazo, emboldened by previous successes, quickly dropped Freshmart once again with a devastating right hand, and it became apparent that he was on the brink of a historical victory. The defining moment arrived when Collazo delivered a left uppercut followed by a right to the body, solidifying his win by striking Freshmart down for the third time. The referee had no choice but to stop the bout, marking a decisive moment in both fighters’ careers.
With this brilliant performance, Collazo not only improved his record to 11-0 (8 KOs), but he also claimed the WBA championship and the coveted status of being recognized as one of the top fighters in the 105-pound division. Meanwhile, Freshmart, who previously boasted an impressive record of 25-0, suffered his first professional loss, leaving the ring with both a shattered record and title.
Backed by the legendary Miguel Cotto, who congratulated him in the ring post-fight, Collazo’s victory represents more than just numbers on a scorecard; it’s a statement to the boxing world. Collazo has now not only claimed multiple titles—WBO, WBA, and Ring Magazine—but has asserted himself as a legit contender in the lightweight rankings. His performance serves as a benchmark for young fighters aspiring to achieve greatness in boxing.
The night in Riyadh bore witness to a pivotal moment in boxing history, as Oscar Collazo’s impressive display against Knockout CP Freshmart will likely be remembered for years to come. With dreams of further ascendancy now within reach, fans and analysts alike shall be keen to see how this gifted fighter continues to evolve and whether he can maintain his momentum moving forward.