In a disappointing turn of events for boxing fans, the rematch between Cuban boxer Robeisy Ramirez and Mexican champion Rafael “El Tren” Espinoza is on hold as negotiations failed to reach an agreement. The World Boxing Organization(WBO) has confirmed that both parties could not reach an agreement, so a legal resolution is needed.
On Thursday, October 3, it was learned that the anticipated rematch, in which Ramirez would seek redemption after losing his WBO featherweight title to Espinoza last December, is now in a state of uncertainty. The WBO had previously ordered the two boxers to formalize an agreement within 15 days, a deadline that has now passed without any resolution.
On September 3, the WBO made the announcement that a universal title rematch was due following Espinoza’s upset victory over Ramirez on December 9, 2023. At the time, Ramirez held the championship belt until Espinoza reclaimed it in a majority decision that surprised many in the boxing community.
Despite the WBO’s attempt to mediate the situation, it became apparent that the two sides of fighters could not find common ground regarding the financial arrangements necessary for the fight. A source close to the negotiations revealed:
“Top Rank informed the WBO that no agreement was reached between Rafael ‘Divino’ Espinoza and Robeisy ‘Tren’ Ramirez in a rematch for the Featherweight championship. An auction is now scheduled for October 11, with a minimum bid set at $150,000.”
Interestingly, while Espinoza had an agreement with Top Rank, Ramirez’s team had been unable to come to similar terms. This disparity has left many speculating about what the future holds for the two fighters, particularly Ramirez, who has expressed his desire for a rematch since the initial loss.
Faced with the news, Ramirez took to social media to express his frustrations. “I should clarify: my team and I have been asking for a rematch since the cards were first read. The WBO had to intervene to bring about the rematch. This is boxing for hire. What there is not is a financial agreement with Top Rank Boxing. There is a lot of willingness to fight,”he said.
The rivalry between Ramirez and Espinoza has been marked by tensions and a series of controversies. After his defeat, Ramirez repeatedly criticized Espinoza, demanding a chance to regain his title. However, Espinoza chose to pursue other rivals, further complicating the situation.
Now, as the clock ticks down to the Oct. 11 auction, fans and analysts alike are wondering what will happen next. If no deal is reached, the governing body will step in and the auction may determine the next steps for both fighters.
Espinoza, who holds the WBO Featherweight title since December 2023, is looking to solidify his position as one of the top contenders in the sport. A native of Mexico, he boasts an impressive professional record of 25 wins y 0 losses, 21 of those wins by Knockout. Espinoza first turned pro in 2013 and has steadily risen through the ranks, capturing the championship belt in a stunning upset against Ramirez.
His successful title defense against Sergio Chirino in June 2024 by technical knockout only added to his growing reputation as a fierce competitor. As the drama surrounding the potential rematch unfolds, Espinoza remains focused on maintaining his championship status while pursuing lucrative opportunities in the boxing world.
On the other hand, Robeisy Ramirezwho held the WBO featherweight title from April to December 2023, is no stranger to overcoming adversity. The Cienfuegos native already dazzled the boxing public as an amateur, winning gold medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games. His professional career has been a roller coaster ride, full of ups and downs, including his shocking loss to Espinoza last year.
Rameirez’s desire for redemption is palpable, and fans have rallied behind him, urging a quick solution to the contractual impasse. As he seeks to regain his title, the stakes are high and the anticipation is palpable.
As the boxing community awaits the results of the October 11 auction, both fighters are at a crucial crossroads in their careers. A resolution will not only determine who gets a title shot, but will also set the stage for Ramirez and Espinoza’s future within the sport.
In conclusion, the lack of agreement between Robeisy Ramirez y Rafael Espinoza for a rematch has left fans on the edge of their seats. With the auction approaching, the next chapter of this boxing saga is about to unfold and all eyes will be on the outcome. It remains to be seen whether this anticipated rematch will become a reality or disappear into the annals of boxing history. For now, the suspense continues to build as fans of both fighters await a resolution that will lead to an exciting showdown in the ring.
