December 2, 2023
Source: Boxing Scene
Photo Source: Boxing Scene
Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela was surprised that Chris Colbert made it to the final bell. Heading into their first showdown at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, earlier this year, the 24-year-old had a strong feeling that he was going to wipe the floor with the loquacious New Yorker.
Ultimately, Valenzuela was almost correct. In the first round, Valenzuela (12-2, 8 KOs) took a small step back and landed a monster right hand. Colbert, immediately after, crumbled to the canvas. He may have dusted himself off and continued to fight, but Valenzuela wasn’t worried about what was coming back in his direction.
For the next 10 rounds, both fighters had their moments. Colbert’s feet were as quick as his mouth as he got inside, landed several combinations, and got out before Valenzuela knew what hit him.
It took Valenzuela some time to get Colbert’s timing down, but once he did, he hurt the 27-year-old time and time again. In the waning seconds of the last round, both men raised their hands in the air believing they did enough to earn the victory. Officially, it was a close call as all three judges scoring from ringside had it 95-94. Valenzuela was somewhat puzzled by the closeness of it, but he wouldn't be cheated out of his moment.
He was wrong.
Valenzuela was apoplectic once the final scores were revealed. The Mexican native was flat-out annoyed as Colbert pranced around the ring sticking his tongue out while waving his WBC medal.
Valenzuela was in no mood to take the humble approach. The once highly touted prospect grabbed the nearest microphone he could find and demanded an immediate rematch. Colbert though, still smiling from ear to ear, shrugged his shoulders and told Valenzuela that he wasn’t interested.
The days that played out soon after were difficult to stomach. His first-round knockdown felt auspicious and the heavy shots he landed throughout led him to believe that a win was essentially a guarantee.
Valenzuela did his best to put his latest loss behind him, but quietly, he was doing his best to set up a rematch. The conclaves that took place between both sides eventually led to a sequel as the pair will get it on in a few more weeks in Minnesota.
Colbert claims that he acquiesced to Valenzuela’s demands for his own peace of mind. He couldn’t stand the thought of someone walking around claiming that he got the better of him. So, in order to shut him up, Colbert, maybe apathetically, agreed to fight him once more.
With that said, Valenzuela isn’t buying what Colbert is selling. From his point of view, Colbert did his best to avoid their rematch. The powers that be, however, wouldn’t allow him to walk away.
“I don't think he wanted to give me a rematch,” said Valenzuela during a recent interview with ESNEWS. “I think he was forced into it.”
Reasoning aside, they are now putting in the work as they look to put an end to their rivalry. If he wanted, Valenzuela could have taken the time to warn Colbert of the beating he plans on dishing out. Ultimately, he didn’t. In addition to playing the role of a nice guy, Valenzuela refused to let the world in on his game plan.
All in all, Valenzuela and Colbert aren’t friends. A relationship between them isn’t likely after their second meeting either. Valenzuela, nevertheless, is asking Colbert for a succinct favor.
“Just show up and I’ll take care of the rest.”
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