Costa Rican David “Medallita” Jiménez was a prophet in his personal land, efficiently defending his WBA Interim Tremendous Flyweight Title in entrance of his residence crowd. With the passionate assist of his fellow countrymen, he secured a unanimous choice victory over a tricky opponent, Nicaraguan Keyvin Lara, on the Polideportivo de Cartago, the champion’s hometown venue.
Jiménez returned to the very place the place his skilled journey started on February 16, 2019, when he made his professional debut by knocking out Mexico’s Emmanuel Villamar in three rounds.
A Show of Talent and Technique
“Medallita” put his greatest boxing on show in opposition to a seasoned veteran whom he by no means underestimated. Over the course of 12 hard-fought rounds, Jiménez maintained management whereas additionally navigating moments of depth that stored the group on edge.
Lara refused to go down with no battle, partaking the champion in fierce exchanges with out hesitation. The Nicaraguan had his moments, notably within the center rounds, the place he absorbed Jiménez’s energy pictures with out wavering and responded together with his personal clear punches.
An Emotional Battle from Begin to End
The battle started with excessive power as Lara got here out urgent the motion. Jiménez, staying composed, fought well on the counter, steadily taking command of the bout in opposition to an opponent who showcased wonderful conditioning all through.
The judges delivered a unanimous choice in favor of Jiménez with the next scores:
• 120-108 (Carlos Manzanares)
• 119-109 (Aida Tejada)
• 116-112 (Alexis Marin)
The bout was officiated by veteran Panamanian referee Gustavo Padilla, who oversaw his 114th world title battle.
Jiménez Retains Climbing
With this victory, Jiménez improves to 17-1 (11 KOs), whereas Lara falls to 32-7-1 (12 KOs).
Beforehand, “Medallita” got here up brief in his try and dethrone then-champion Artem Dalakian in an in depth choice within the UK. Nonetheless, he rebounded by capturing the WBA Interim Title with a victory over John “Scrappy” Ramírez.
This win marks his first profitable title protection, maintaining his championship goals alive as he continues his rise within the tremendous flyweight division.