On Saturday night, Mexico’s Jhonny Gonzalez (55-8, 47KO’s) shocked the world, becoming a three-time world champion by handing WBC featherweight champ Abner Mares (26-1-1, 14KO’s) his first loss at the Stub Hub Center in Carson, California.
It was the first title defense for the new champion Mares, 27, who was a heavy favorite going into the contest.
He would not make it out of the first round, as Gonzalez, 31, connected with a clean, hard left hook that found the chin of Mares, sending on to the canvas for the first time in the opening frame.
Mares would beat the count before Gonzalez, like a bull seeing red, went in for the kill.
A straight right hand caught Mares and sent the champion down again, where he would remain as referee Jack Reiss stopped the ten-count, ending the fight and Mares’ reign as champion.
Following the short, yet monumental upset, the conquering hero returned to Mexico on Sunday.
His return was highlighting by meeting newborn daughter, who was born a month ago during training camp.
Though not many expected Gonzalez to fly back to Mexico with championship gold in hand, upon his arrival the new champion called out the division’s elite.
“I want to fight the best and if I have a rematch with Mares, I’m ready,” said Gonzoalez to fightnews.com. “I am going to relax and enjoy my family. But I hope to have opportunities to face Nonito Donaire, Mikey Garcia and Guillermo Rigondeaux among others. I again have the belt of the World Boxing Council and it’s a great privilege to face the best.”
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