First, WBO/WBA Minimumweight champion Oscar Collazo had to find another opponent for his title defense as original opponent- Filipino Joey Canoy couldn’t get his work visa straightened out in time. Then, new opponent Neider Valdez of Mexico, was approved by the WBO, but he couldn’t make weight! So in a last second shuffle, the 105 lb. title defense became a vacant 112 lb. WBO International title challenge for both boxers.
The weight climb didn’t appear to affect Collazo one bit as he plowed through Valdez with three “soft” knockdowns in the second, prompting Valdez’ corner to signal to referee Thomas Taylor that they wanted to pull their man out. Yes, Valdez did get hit, but each time, he appeared kneel to the canvas voluntarily, so as to collect himself and avoid follow-up shots. The time was 2:35 of round two.
Collazo indicated he wants to challenge unified WBC/WBA Flyweight champion Ricardo Salazar, who also happens to be promoted by Golden Boy, in a classic Puerto Rico/Mexico matchup. Whether or not that match is next, remains to be seen.
