Puerto Rico’s Jose “Sniper” Pedraza needs an opportunity to problem for one of many world belts at 140 kilos. To take action, he’ll first need to get previous Arnold Barboza Jr once they meet in a 10-round crossroads showdown on February 3.
Barboza (27-0, 10 KO) is ranked within the prime 10 by the World Boxing Council (WBC) and the World Boxing Group. Final July, Barboza returned from an 11-month layoff to grab the undefeated report of Puerto Rican boxer Danielito Zorrilla. He now has his eyes set on turning again Pedraza.
Pedraza (29-4-1, 14 KOs) turned a world champion at junior light-weight and light-weight earlier than transferring up in weight to junior welterweight in 2019. He’s 3-2-1 within the weight class.
Final March, he made it aggressive with former unified champion Jose Ramírez over 12 rounds earlier than shedding a unanimous choice. Lower than six months later, he fought to a attract a battle of former champions with Richard Commey.
Earlier this month, Pedraza was all set to participate in a essential occasion at Madison Sq. Backyard towards Teofimo López. The bout was scheduled for December 10, however Pedraza was compelled to withdrew with a viral an infection unrelated to COVID-19. The 33-year-old understands {that a} victory over Barboza will transfer him nearer to a world title alternative.
“I’ve totally recovered from the sickness that compelled me to withdraw from the struggle with Lopez. Proper now, I really feel 100% and I do know that Barboza Jr. is among the greatest fighters within the division . I’m certain that this will probably be an ideal struggle the place I’ll reaffirm my stage as an elite fighter at 140 kilos,” Pedraza mentioned.