Full Breakdown
Xander Zayas Unifies Titles in Historic Bout
2/2/2026, 1:08:56 AM
Zayas Claims Victory in Title Unification
Xander Zayas, at just 23 years old, solidified his status as one of boxing's rising stars by defeating Abass Baraou via split decision in a junior middleweight title unification bout held on Saturday night at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico in San Juan. Zayas, the reigning WBO champion, added Baraou's WBA title to his collection, marking a significant milestone in his career. The judges scored the fight 116-112 in favor of Zayas twice, while a third judge controversially scored it 116-112 for Baraou, bringing Zayas's record to 23-0 with 13 knockouts.
Fight Overview
The match showcased Zayas's superior footwork and combination punching, allowing him to control the pace early on. Baraou, known for his relentless pressure, struggled to land significant shots in the initial rounds. However, he found some success in the fifth round, landing a series of right hands that seemed to shift momentum. Despite this, Zayas maintained composure, responding with sharp counters and effective jabbing. In the ninth round, Zayas landed a powerful right hand that wobbled Baraou, but the German fighter managed to survive and push through to the final bell, leading to a spirited exchange in the twelfth round.
Historical Significance
With this victory, Zayas became the youngest active unified champion in boxing history and the first Puerto Rican to achieve this feat in his hometown. Zayas expressed his excitement post-fight, stating, "This feels amazing... I'm just getting started." He acknowledged the close nature of the bout, admitting to feeling anxious as the judges' scores were announced.
Official Statements & Responses
Zayas reflected on the fight, saying, "I hurt my left hand in the ninth round... but that's what champions do. I figured it out." He also called out other champions in the division, including Josh Kelly and Sebastian Fundora, signaling his intent to continue challenging for titles. Baraou, despite the loss, showed sportsmanship, stating, "Congrats to him. I'm proud of his performance... he beat me fair and square."
Criticism & Opposition
While Zayas's victory was celebrated, the scoring of the bout drew some criticism. One judge's score of 116-112 for Baraou raised eyebrows, leading to discussions about the consistency of judging in boxing. Baraou himself, when asked if he believed he won, admitted, "Honestly, not really... he did a great job."
What's Next for Zayas
Looking ahead, Zayas aims to defend his newly unified titles against top contenders in the division. He has expressed interest in facing Josh Kelly, who recently captured the IBF title, indicating a desire to unify further. As Zayas continues to build his legacy, his recent victory positions him as a significant figure in the boxing landscape, with fans eagerly anticipating his next move.
