Ricardo Sandoval emerged victorious in a thrilling rematch against Carlos Buitrago. The durable Nicaraguan was stopped in the eighth round of their super flyweight bout at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California.
Sandoval, who had previously defeated Buitrago by seventh-round TKO, dominated the action, landing crisp, powerful shots throughout the contest. Despite Buitrago's determination to prove that a rematch was warranted, Sandoval's superior skills and punching power were evident.
In the second round, Sandoval's jab visibly hurt Buitrago, sending him stumbling backwards. However, Buitrago displayed his toughness by firing back and even showboating as the two fighters exchanged blows in close quarters.
Sandoval appeared to be breaking Buitrago down in the third round, but the Nicaraguan landed a stunning right hand that wobbled Sandoval just before the bell. Buitrago's confidence soared as he taunted Sandoval by standing on the ropes and inviting him to engage in the fourth round.
In the fifth round, Sandoval recognized Buitrago's incredible chin and began to focus his attack on the body. The shift in strategy paid dividends as Buitrago's output decreased, and he began to retreat under Sandoval's persistent assault.