PONCE, PUERTO RICO --Last night at the auditorium Juan Pachin Vicens in Ponce, Puerto, undefeated super featherweight contender, Jose "Sniper" Pedraza (16-0, 10 KOs) captured the vacant International Boxing Organization super featherweight world title, with a dominating unanimous decision victory against Mexico's Alberto "Kichis" Garza (26-7-1, 21 KOs). Scorecards read 119-109, 118-110 and 117-111.
"This was another fight where I went the distance and learned a lot." said Pedraza. "I'm working on everything each time I step in the ring. I'm feeling more comfortable while I'm honing in on my skills to get better. I feel I'm ready to fight any of the other world champions in my division, but 'm going to leave that up to my promoters, Gary Shaw, Lou DiBella and Javier Bustillo. I'll fight anyone anywhere. I'm ready to make my people proud. Fighting in Puerto Rico is the best."
Newly signed amateur stars, bantamweight Jean "Chapito" Rivera (1-0) and featherweight Luis Paredes (1-0) were successful, winning their pro debuts convincingly.
Riviera used his speed and lateral movement to defeat his opponent Josue Class (0-1). Scorecards read 39-36 and 40-35 twice all in favor of Rivera.
"Coming out victorious in my first pro fight was the goal for me tonight." said Riviera. "I learned a lot in this fight and I want to thank Gary Shaw for everything. I feel great and it was incredible fighting in front of my people here in Puerto Rico. I'm hoping to get right back in the ring."
Paredes faced a game opponent in Kevin Vazquez, who was also making his pro debut, but won convincingly. Scorecards read 39-36 across the board for Paredes.
"It was great to come out on top in my first professional fight," Paredes said. "I'm going to keep working hard, while improving with each fight. Puerto Rican fans are the best and I'm happy to be fighting here at home. My promoter Gary Shaw has plans to keep me busy so I'll be ready to go when my name is called."
Pedraza is a member of "Team Puerto Rico", which is a collaboration between Gary Shaw Productions, DiBella Entertainment and Universal Promotions, made with the goal of gathering the best of Puerto Rico's boxing talents. Paredes and Rivera are promoted by Gary Shaw Productions.
