Zayas Captures Gold, Carrington Shines, Vargas Stuns at MSG
NEW YORK CITY — Puerto Rican sensation Xander Zayas (22-0, 13 KOs) became the new WBO junior middleweight world champion with a dominant unanimous decision over Mexico’s Jorge García (33-5, 26 KOs) on Saturday night at Madison Square Garden’s Theater. Judges scored the bout 116-112, 118-110, and 119-109 in favor of the 22-year-old.
García came in hot off an upset win over Charles Conwell, launching a flurry of punches early. But Zayas kept his composure, controlling the tempo with sharp jabs and tactical counters. The sixth round saw a fiery exchange, but Zayas took over in the championship rounds with smart footwork and pinpoint punches.
“Boxing 101,” Zayas said. “I had to box to win. The jab was the key, and we proved it tonight. This is a dream come true — it’s beautiful to have my Puerto Rican fans here. I couldn’t ask for anything better.”
Carrington Claims WBC Interim Featherweight Title
In the co-main event, Brooklyn’s Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (16-0, 9 KOs) put on a masterclass against Namibia’s Mateus Heita (14-1, 9 KOs), winning a wide unanimous decision (120-108, 119-109 x2) to capture the WBC interim featherweight title.
Carrington showcased speed, defense, and ring IQ over 12 dominant rounds.
“I wanted to prove I can go the distance. I showed championship level tonight,” Carrington said. “Now I want Rafael Espinoza, Nick Ball, or Stephen Fulton. Let’s go!”
Emiliano Vargas Delivers 42-Second Knockout
Emiliano Fernando Vargas (15-0, 13 KOs) needed just 42 seconds to knock out Ecuador’s Alexander Espinoza (20-4-1, 9 KOs), landing a thunderous right hand that ended the fight instantly.
“I’m just a Mexican kid trying to reach the top,” Vargas said. “My dad fought here 26 years ago. If I become even half of what he was, I’ll go far.”
Undercard Results Light Up MSG
- Rohan Polanco (17-0) defeated Quinton Randall via UD: 100-90, 99-91, 97-93
- Juanmita López De Jesús (3-0) scored a TKO in round two over Jorge González-Sánchez
- Yan Santana (15-0) shut out Aaron Alameda for the NABO title: 100-90 x3
- Steven Navarro (7-0) edged Cristopher Ríos via UD: 77-75 x3
- Julius Ballo (1-0) made his pro debut with a UD win over Brandan Ayala: 40-36 x3
