Avila Perspective, Chap. 220: Top Rank Boxing in New York and More

Avila Perspective, Chap. 220: Top Rank Boxing in New York and More

Adam “BluNose” Lopez co-headlines a fight card in New York this weekend. But not known to many are his bloodlines to a Los Angeles-based legend of the 80s and 90s.

Southern California’s Lopez (16-3, 6 KOs) faces New York’s Abraham Nova (21-1, 15 KOs) on Saturday Jan. 14, at Verona, New York. ESPN will televise the Top Rank fight card live at 10:00 pm ET (main card).

Lopez, 26, the son of the late Hector “Toro” Lopez a skilled lightweight who fought numerous champions including Kostya Tzsyu, travels to New York where Southern Californians seldom win unless they score a knockout. It’s a tall task and I’m sure Top Rank is aware of the discrepancy in New York judging for West Coast fighters. At least they should be.

It’s all about styles and New York judges prefer the more defensive skills than offensive craft. Movement and feints are scored more generously than left hooks and overhand rights. It’s New York. They also do not like seeing their fighters lose.

Nova typically walks in with an entourage that would make John Philip Sousa envious. Girls with pom poms and a marching band complement his walks into arenas and then he goes to work.

As long as he puts people in the seats it’s all entertainment.

Both fighters are standing on the edge of the plateau. A win vaults one or the other to the next level.

“It’s definitely a big fight. Nova and I are kind of in the same spot with our careers. He needs it, and I need it. I’m excited for it,” said Lopez (pictured on the right) who is officially making 130-pound super featherweight division his weight class. “It’s definitely, in my eyes, a Fight of the Year candidate type of fight.”

Nova has the same need to win and move up the ladder.

“It was a good opportunity, and a win here will put me in a better position for bigger fights,” said Nova, a fighter of Puerto Rican descent.

The co-main event features the return of Nigerian heavyweight prospect Efe Ajagba (16-1, 13 KOs) meeting undefeated Stephan Shaw (18-0, 13 KOs) of Missouri in a match set for 10 rounds.

Ajagba is three-for-four against undefeated heavyweights. His only loss came against Cuba’s Frank Sanchez back in 2021. Now he faces Shaw the number five ranked American heavyweight.

“I’m ready to put on a show. I’m going to put more pressure. I can’t wait. I’m so excited to be here,” said Nigeria’s Ajagba.

Shaw feels this is his moment.

“I have faced adversity that the average man wouldn’t be able to deal with. Coming from St. Louis, beating the odds and being on this stage to have my moment. I feel great. I’m excited,” said Shaw.

Another heavyweight prospect Guido Vianello, a former Italian Olympian, also participates on the Top Rank card. He fights Jonathan Rice, a Las Vegas-based heavyweight who traded big blows with Nigeria’s Ajagba for 10 rounds and losing by decision.

Vargas Legacy

Fernando Vargas Jr. and Amado Vargas both officially signed with MarvNation Promotions it was announced on Thursday in Pomona, California.

The two sons of former boxing great Fernando “El Feroz” Vargas are both undefeated and are based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Fernando Jr. is an undefeated super welterweight southpaw who recently won by knockout on a MarvNation card at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif.

“They shot their proposal to our management. And it’s the best fit for our family,” said Vargas Jr. 26.

Amado Vargas, a featherweight, also fought on the same recent boxing card in Carson and scored a win by decision.

“I want to thank the whole MarvNation team for believing in the Dynasty,” said Amado Vargas. “I can’t wait. My father has the blueprint. We’re just continuing the legacy.”

The father Fernando Vargas Sr., one of the best fighters and attractions in his era, is a strong part of their path. He’s experienced what few prizefighters do.

“It’s a beautiful moment,” said Fernando Vargas, Sr. “I’m happy, and I’m excited to be here with MarvNation. It’s a great fit. Marv is a great guy. He’s a good dude. I love the fact that he’s going to be busy. I need consistency for my boys. And I know that with MarvNation we’re going to get it.”

Unification Match in Canada

A battle between world titlists Canada’s Kim Clavel and Mexico’s Jessica Nery Plata takes place today Friday, Jan. 13, in Laval, Canada. ESPN+ will stream the boxing card live.

Clavel (16-0, 3 KOs) holds the WBC light flyweight title and Nery Plata (28-2) the WBA version. Whoever wins could be facing the winner of another battle that is taking place in Argentina. More on that later.

A number of light flyweights have gained attention with Seniesa Estrada leading the way for those under 108 pounds.

Unification Match in Argentina

Former light flyweight titlist Evelin Bermudez of Argentina and Tania Enriquez of Mexico will be fighting each other for the WBO and IBF world titles on March 10, in Buenos Aires, according to Lupi Gutierrez of Boxing Meets Beauty on social media.

Bermudez (17-1-1, 6 KOs) recently lost a spirited battle against Yokasta Valle in Los Angeles. She is the younger sister of Daniela Bermudez who fought Amanda Serrano.

Enriquez (20-0, 9 KOs) recently won by decision over Edna Maltos in Mexico. She is the younger sister of Kenia Enriquez who is ranked number one in the flyweight division.

Photo credit: Mikey Williams / Top Rank via Getty Images

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