The WBO has ordered the featherweight champion Rafael Espinoza (25-0, 21KOs) to defend his title against Robeisy Ramirez (14-2, 9KOs).

Espinoza defeated Ramirez last year to secure the title via a majority decision. Espinoza got off the canvas in round five before dropping his opponent in the last round, which was enough to sway the judges. He successfully defended the title for the first time in his last fight against Sergio Chirino Sanchez, knocking him out in the fourth round.

Ramirez worked himself back into a mandatory position by knocking out Brandon Leon Benitez in round seven in his previous bout. The two sides have been given 15 days to agree terms starting from September 4 before purse bids are called. The minimum bid has been set at $150,000.

“The camps are granted 15 days to negotiate and reach an agreement as ordered. Failure to reach an accord within the period outlined herein, will result in the Committee ordering purse bid proceedings. Any of the parties involved may request purse bid proceedings at any time during the negotiation process. The minimum bid for the WBO Flyweight Division is $150,000,” WBO Championship Committee Chairman Luis Batista-Salas

Reaction

Great first fight. Excited for this.

— jnr (@bigsonbunce) September 5, 2024

Espinoza finishes the job this time

— Bruce (@brucethecreeker) September 5, 2024

Yessir, team robeisy

— Tayyib (@TayyibAlii) September 5, 2024