THE RESULT: Jaime Munguia does what Canelo Alvarez could not and stops John Ryder in nine rounds after throwing the kitchen sink at the Brit for most of the fight.
KEY MOMENTS: The resolute Ryder was dropped four times during the fight. Once in round two, once in the fourth and then twice in the ninth before Ryder’s trainer Tony Sims threw the towel in. Seeing the 35-year-old on the canvas so often is a clear sign that his bravery last year against Canelo may have effected his punch resistance.
RECORDS: Munguia extends his unbeaten record to 43-0 (34). Ryder drops to 32-7 (18).
TALKING POINT: The holes in Munguia’s defence which could make or break his chances of joining the elite of the sport. As entertaining as he is to watch and as effective as he is at this level there are real flaws which fighters like Canelo and David Benavidez would expose. Ryder may have been down four times but he caught Munguia flush on occasions landing some eye catching shots.
QUOTABLE: “I know a lot of people didn’t believe in me, but this is the result of hard work,” Munguia said afterwards. “I’m ready for 168. Last time (against Derevyanchenko) I was throwing like crazy but this time I was timing my punches. I’m motivated for the next fight; it’s going to be bigger than this one. We want the best of the best at 168. If Canelo gives us the chance it would be an honour to share the ring.”
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? Fans will demand that Munguia steps up the level of competition. The four men which fit the bill are Canelo, Benavidez, David Morrell and Caleb Plant. John Ryder has been a fantastic servant to the sport but tonight was proof he has stretched his career as far as he can and should seriously consider retirement.
