Former world champion and two-time Olympic gold medal winner Guillermo Rigondeaux is looking for bigger things after picking up his first victory in over three years.
Rigondeaux (21-3, 14 KOs) earned the right to write a new chapter to his already long career on Friday night with a first round knockout victory over Jesus Martinez, at the Hialeah Park and Casino in Florida.
In pre-fight interviews, Rigondeaux promised that everyone would see a different fighter, more aggressive and committed to victory.
The Cuban veteran had suffered back to back defeats at the hands of Filipino boxers John Riel Casimero and Vincent Astrolabio.
Against Martinez, Rigondeaux sent the Colombian to the canvas for the first time in the first minute of the initial round and then ending it with a powerful left hand that put.
“I warned you that I was coming in differently and there is the proof,” Rigondeaux pointed out to George Ebro.
“I wanted to give [the fans] something to remember…. these fans who came to Hialeah. Having them here and seeing my performance means a lot to me.”
Rigondeaux plans to sit down and negotiate with Premier Boxing Champions, for a more important fight at 118 pounds, taking into account that the undisputed champion Naoya Inoue has moved up in weight to 122-pounds.
“My son told me that if Rigondeaux showcased himself in this way, something great would come to him,” said promoter Luis DeCubas Sr. to George Ebro.
“That was what we all saw and now Luisito, I am sure, he will look for something important because Rigondeaux has a highly respected name in boxing.”
At 42 years old, Rigondeaux showed that he still deserves that final chapter that allows him to erase the bitter experiences of two consecutive defeats.
“Rigondeaux has fought in more important places and for much more money, but this victory here is special,” added DeCubas Sr. “He did not come here for money but to shine in front of his people… for those who know him from his days as an Olympic champion, for those who have followed him since he arrived in this country.”