Rafael Sandoval Stuns Yokohama: American Underdog Topples Kenshiro Teraji in Flyweight Thriller
California's Ricardo Sandoval shocks boxing world by dethroning two-division champion Kenshiro Teraji in Japan, while Antonio Vargas retains title in dramatic co-main event.
Historic Upset in Japanese Boxing Capital
In a seismic shift for the flyweight division, 26-year-old American Ricardo Rafael Sandoval (22-3, 15 KOs) overcame a fifth-round knockdown to dethrone unified champion Kenshiro Teraji (23-2, 14 KOs) via split decision (117-110, 115-112, 113-114) at Yokohama Arena. The victory marks Sandoval's first world championship in his 10-year professional journey.
Fight Breakdown:
- Round 5 Drama: Teraji's signature left hook sent Sandoval to the canvas, but the Californian responded with furious combinations in rounds 6-8
- Championship Rounds: Both fighters traded power shots in final rounds, with Sandoval's body work slowing the 33-year-old champion
- Controversial Cards: While two judges favored Sandoval's aggression, Japanese media questioned the 117-110 margin
"This is for every kid who gets told they're not good enough," Sandoval declared post-fight. "Teraji's a legend, but tonight we rewrote history."
Co-Main Event Heartbreak for Higa
Japan's Daigo Higa (21-3-3) suffered third consecutive title fight disappointment in a controversial draw against WBA bantamweight champion Antonio Vargas (18-1-1):
| Round | Key Moment |
|---|---|
| 4 | Higa floors Vargas |
| 12 | Vargas' dramatic knockdown |
Official Scorecards: 113-113 (x3)
Rising Stars & Future Matchups
- Kyosuke Takami (10-0) claimed WBA light-flyweight gold with 10th-round TKO of Erick Rosa
- Former champion Seiya Tsutsumi (8-1-2) called out Vargas during post-fight chaos
- Teraji's team hinted at potential retirement: "We will discuss future after medical checks"
Sandoval celebrates with Mexican-American flag in historic victory
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