Rafael Espinoza retains WBO title after bizarre stoppage against Blandon

Rafael Espinoza defended his WBO featherweight title on October 31 at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, winning by technical knockout against Ricardo Blandon. The fight, part of the Canelo Alvarez vs. Christian Mbilli undercard, ended in the third round due to a cut on Blandon's eye. Espinoza dominated early, demonstrating effective jabs and body shots. Despite the controversial nature of the stoppage, where Blandon's corner wasn't given time to tend to the cut, Espinoza expressed eagerness for more active competition, possibly seeking unification fights against other champions in the division, including Bruce Carrington and Angelo Leo. The bout marked Espinoza's fifth successful title defense and maintained his undefeated record.

• 7:54 PMYahoo Sports — Canelo vs. Mbilli results: Rafael Espinoza retains WBO title after bizarre early stoppage