Oscar Collazo Stops Neider Valdez in Round Two

Oscar Collazo’s first outing above minimumweight was brief, brutal and about as competitive as a man trying to hold back the tide with a paper bag.

The Puerto Rican southpaw stopped late replacement Neider Valdez Aguilar in the second round at the Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, California, after scoring three knockdowns in a round that quickly turned from inspection into demolition. Valdez had stepped in at short notice after Joey Canoy was unable to fight because of visa issues, and the alteration meant Collazo’s WBA and WBO minimumweight titles were not at stake. Instead, the contest was staged at flyweight, with the WBO International belt on the line.

There was a little intrigue beforehand over how Collazo would look two divisions higher, but it did not last long. He looked sharp, heavy-handed and entirely comfortable. Valdez tried to stand his ground, but he was soon being punished by Collazo’s accuracy and spiteful finishing. Once Collazo found the target in the second, the gap in class became painfully obvious.

After the third knockdown, Valdez’s corner made the sensible decision. Their man had been brave enough to take the assignment, but courage is no substitute for preparation or level.

Collazo moves on unbeaten, with his reputation enhanced, though this was more of a showcase than a true examination.