Rafael Espinoza

A relatively unknown fighter before his bout with Robeisy Ramirez, Mexico’s Rafael Espinoza announced himself on the world scene in that fierce December 9, 2023 bout. Hailing from Guadalajara, Espinoza had beaten nondescript opposition before taking his big chance. The win resulted in a co-promotional deal between Zanfer Promotions and Top Rank in June 2024.

Espinoza turned professional in February 2013 and fought exclusively in Mexico until his bout against Ramirez. Espinoza survived a fifth-round knockdown and knocked Cuba’s Ramirez down in the 12th round to secure the WBO featherweight title by majority decision. One judge scored it 113-113, and the other two totalled 115-111 and 114-112 in Espinoza’s favour. In June 2021, Espinoza made a successful first defence against Sergio Chirino Sanchez, knocking his fellow Mexican down multiple times and out in round four.

Manny Robles

Espinoza trains under Manny Robles. The coach is credited with delivering a rousing speech that motivated Espinoza and helped the Mexican win his world title bout with Robeisy Ramirez.