Martinez Survives Chavez, Reclaims title!

Former WBC middleweight champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez survived a brutal 12th round rally that included a knockdown to defeat Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. by unanimous decision and reclaim the title Saturday night at the Thomas & Mack Arena in Las Vegas NV.

Martinez picked apart the “Son of a Legend” for 11 straight rounds, peppering Chavez with a quick right jab and avoided all offense with his movement.

The fight seemed to be all but over until Chavez landed a right hand that staggered Martinez midway through the final round. Moments later, three consecutive left hooks sent the Argentine crashing to the canvas. Martinez would crawl to the ropes and make to his feet by the count of seven but it was unclear if he could survive the minute left in the round.

For the next 60 seconds, Chavez relentlessly tried to finish off his wounded opponent but simply ran out of time. Martinez never attempted to tie up the Mexican and remained on his feet, fighting back the entire time.

The judges saw it for 117-110, 118-109, 118-109.

“Julio did a great job, he did a lot. More than I expected. He showed he had heart, all the way to the end. He wouldn’t give in.” Said Martinez

“Sergio moved a lot during the fight and I truly started off late. I had him there. I had him hurt and I couldn’t finish him off but I think a rematch would be justified” said Chavez Jr.