Xander Zayas Becomes Youngest Active World Champion

Puerto Rican boxing prodigy Xander Zayas (22-0, 13 KOs) has made history by becoming the youngest active world champion in boxing at just 22 years old. He earned the WBO super welterweight world title after defeating veteran fighter Jorge Garcia (33-5, 26 KOs) by unanimous decision.

Victory at Madison Square Garden

The bout took place at the Theater in Madison Square Garden, New York City. It was a fast-paced contest from the opening bell. Garcia came forward with aggressive pressure, but Zayas used speed, footwork, and timing to keep the fight under control. He consistently landed clean jabs and counterpunches while avoiding heavy damage.

Over 12 rounds, Zayas showcased maturity beyond his years. His ring IQ, defensive head movement, and ability to stick to the game plan helped him control the pace. The judges scored the fight in favor of Zayas, securing him the vacant WBO title.

Masterclass Performance

Garcia managed to connect with a few solid punches, especially in the middle rounds. However, Zayas’ composure and recovery stood out. He responded with slick combinations and stiff jabs that kept Garcia on the back foot. Analysts praised his ability to adapt in real time and dictate the rhythm of the fight.

This win is a defining moment in Zayas’ young career. With this title, he becomes the youngest active world champion across all boxing weight classes. Fans and critics alike see this as the start of a dominant run in the super welterweight division.

Strong Undercard Performances

The event featured several promising fighters on the undercard. Notable victories included:

Emiliano Vargas – continued his undefeated streak with a decisive win.
Rohan Polanco – secured a solid points victory.
Juanma López de Jesús – thrilled fans with a technical knockout.

What’s Next for Zayas?

With a world title in hand, Zayas is now in position to headline future cards and unify the division. His rise has been carefully managed, but this win puts him on the radar of the sport’s elite. Expect talks of future defenses or unification bouts to dominate boxing headlines in the coming months.

Source: Big Fight Weekend