Mariana Juarez Successfully Defends her WBC Bantamweight Championship for a Seventh Time in Unanimous Decision Triumph Over Eva Naranjo

From WBC:

Juarez superbly defends WBC crown

Mariana ‘Barby’ Juarez scored a clear and decisive victory over Spanish Eva Maria Naranjo in the seventh successful defense of her World Boxing Council female bantamweight title, thrilling more than 5000 fans in Fresnillo, Zacatecas, who chanted her name throughout.

The champion paved the way to victory with powerful and laser accurate left jabs. Keeping her shorter stockier opponent at bay for long spells. However, tough, resilient. determined and hitherto undefeated Naranjo was dangerous throughout, going for the body and landing occasional hard right hooks to the head.

Barby dominated, mostly judging the distance intelligently, unleashing two fisted attacks at opportune moments, remaining the perpetual aggressor, so the European who’s face was reddening and showing signs of wear and tear, remained boxing in retreat.

The champion, with powerful rights forced the Iberian to take refuge on the ropes, and at times it seemed that the fight would end before the distance. It was the strength and courage of Naranjo which helped her weather the storm clouts!

Knowing she was a country mile adrift, the fading challenger threw everything she had into the final round, yet she was buffeted by a more accomplished champion, who’s stamina down the stretch was markedly superior.

A well deserved and beautifully crafted victory for Mariana, who like a vintage wine is getting better and better. The Judges scored it 97-93, 97- 93 and 98-92. An accomplished UD for Mariana.