Jose Zepeda vs Ivan Baranchyk 03.10.2020
In a thrilling showdown at the MGM Grand Conference Center in Paradise, Nevada, on October 3, 2020, Jose Zepeda clashed with Ivan Baranchyk in a highly anticipated battle for the vacant WBC Silver light welterweight title. The stage was set for a clash of titans, with both fighters eager to stake their claim in the division.
Leading up to the bout, Ivan Baranchyk, a former IBF light welterweight champion, aimed to rebound after losing his title to Josh Taylor in 2019. He bolstered his comeback bid with a knockout victory over Gabriel Bracero, setting the stage for a potential return to championship glory.
Jose Zepeda, coming off a strong two-fight winning streak, was determined to continue his ascent after a narrow loss to José Ramírez in 2019. Victories over former world champion Jose Pedraza and Kendo Castaneda had propelled him back into the spotlight, positioning himself as a serious contender in the division.
Initially scheduled for July 7th but delayed due to Baranchyk’s rib injury, the fight was eagerly anticipated by fans and pundits alike. The postponement only heightened the tension surrounding the matchup, building anticipation for their eventual clash.
When the bell rang on October 3rd, the fight lived up to its billing as a potential Fight of the Year candidate. Both Zepeda and Baranchyk wasted no time in unleashing their power, resulting in a spectacular back-and-forth affair that had the crowd on the edge of their seats.
From the opening round, it was clear neither fighter was willing to back down. Baranchyk drew first blood with knockdowns of Zepeda, but the resilient Zepeda rallied back, scoring his own knockdown in a thrilling exchange in round two. The momentum swung wildly as each fighter traded heavy blows and knockdowns, thrilling the audience with their relentless aggression.
As the fight progressed into the fifth round, with both fighters showing signs of fatigue, Zepeda found his opportunity. With a devastating left hook, Zepeda sent Baranchyk crashing to the canvas, ending the fight at 2:50 of the fifth round. The referee waved off the fight immediately, securing a fifth-round knockout victory for Jose Zepeda.
In the aftermath, Ivan Baranchyk was stretchered out of the ring and taken to a hospital for precautionary measures but was discharged the following day, reassuring fans of his recovery.
Jose Zepeda’s victory solidified his position as a top contender in the competitive light welterweight division, while Ivan Baranchyk, despite the loss, demonstrated his unwavering resilience and determination. The bout between Zepeda and Baranchyk will be remembered as a showcase of skill, heart, and the thrilling unpredictability of boxing at its highest level.
The fight won Ring Magazine’s Fight of the Year for 2020.
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Filed under: Light Welterweight - @ October 3, 2020 11:59 am