As it was, the violence was largely one-way traffic.
Valdez (29-0, 23 KOs), a former WBO featherweight titleholder plus also a two-time Olympian, scored a substantial mad against Berchelt (38-2, 34 KOs) in the MGM Grand, swaying him with a left hook at the last moment of the 10th round within a second favorite for knockout of this year.
Valdez maintained Berchelt’s WBC title and got the biggest triumph of his career.
“There is nothing better than proving people wrong,” said Valdez, who entered the struggle because of plus-240 underdog, based on Caesars Sportsbook from William Hill. “I’ve a list of folks who doubted me. Boxing analysts cautioned me. I’ve a message to everyone: Do not’ let anybody tell you exactly what you can and can not do.
“I am so happy at the moment, I could practically do a backflip such as Teofimo Lopez,” Valdez said, speaking to this unified lightweight titleholder.
Berchelt, whose sole other expert reduction came via TKO in 2014, stayed on his back to the canvas for many minutes but was finally able to sit down and stand with help.
He had been taken to a hospital subsequently, and Top Rank president Todd DuBoef told ESPN he got a CT scan which came back clear. Berchelt was anticipated to be released in the hospital Saturday night.
The magnificent walk-off shot may have resisted the truth that the smaller Valdez dominated the struggle.
“Oscar Valdez demonstrated he’s just one of the fantastic Mexican champions,” stated Top Rank CEO Bob Arum. “A complete masterpiece from the ring ”
The hook and jab were Valdez’s crime of selection, as he had been skillful contrary to Berchelt’s aggression. He’d Berchelt from sorts in the opening as he darted out and in with all the jab, then surprised him with the left hook on the top. Berchelt appeared like he wished to counter his trademark electricity, but he looked familiar with Valdez’s ability and speed.
From the next round, Berchelt was less or more chasing Valdez round the ring. The next round finished with Berchelt running and lunging ahead with shots.
Though it was not the plan Berchelt came out together, he didn’t have his moments. He scored with power shots into Valdez’s entire body, and it seemed as if he may be turning the tide at the seventh, since Valdez repeatedly tied him up in clinches to slow down the speed.
But at the Valdez returned to some successful jab job, and he left Berchelt miss across the ropes.
The 10th round was brilliant for Valdez, as he started up with mixes and had the referee taking a good look in Berchelt. The walk-off left hook was shown to be a fitting ending.
Top Rank president Todd DuBoef stated he’d really like to prepare a struggle between both undefeated junior lightweights.
“I wish to take this belt dwelling, and I am happy for this. Any winner out there… I discovered Shakur Stevenson would like to battle,” Valdez said. “Let us do it. I only need to continue battling and give the fans exactly what they need.”
