Vergil Ortiz Jr. successfully overcame Israil Madrimov, whom Terence Crawford had difficulty against, to earn himself the WBC interim super welterweight championship and earn himself an unanimous decision victory over Madrimov’s unique movement style in early rounds despite early challenges; showing his superior skillset that has brought seven national championships his way.
Madrimov seemed on track for victory until post-fight interviewer Boxing News published information indicating he was fighting illness during their Riyadh fight and wasn’t at his peak performance, advocating for a rematch: “Two weeks ago we went to see our doctor, who stated I wasn’t feeling well and wasn’t ready for [Ortiz].” Nonetheless, Madrimov insisted on continuing despite this condition due to its significance, believing he’d come back stronger next time around rematch rematch rematch!
Though Madrimov’s assertions suggested an impaired performance, his agility and form in the fight’s initial rounds appeared unaffected, which later succumbed to Ortiz Jr.’s strategic adjustments to Madrimov’s awkward fighting style.
Vergil Ortiz Sr., reacting to Madrimov’s remarks, voiced his discontent vividly on social media. He detailed the adversities Vergil Jr. faced, including battling COVID-19 amidst the first wave which claimed their coach’s life, to sustaining injuries during training, yet never using those as excuses for any performance shortfall. “Respectfully Vergil is different,” Ortiz Sr. emphasized, underscoring his son’s resilience and determination to compete under any circumstances.
Ortiz Jr. remains unperturbed by any debate and already looks ahead, planning his next challenge and seeking an opportunity at world title contention within his division. Following an emphatic win defending his interim WBC super welterweight belt against Madrimov, Ortiz Jr. feels ready and confident enough to face anyone – particularly interested in challenging for either Terry Crawford’s WBA championship or possibly its successor WBA belt!
Madrimov may wish for another chance at redemption after suffering defeat against Vergil Ortiz Jr.; however, his firm stand indicates otherwise and the focus remains on who can come up against Ortiz Sr. next in his pursuit of boxing supremacy.