By Rafael Soto

Culiacan, Sinaloa - Welterweight contender Omar Chavez (28-1, 21KOs) is back on a winning path, after scoring a ninth round stoppage over Colombia's Emilio Julio (20-8-2, 13KOs). Chavez dominated much of the fight against an opponent who displayed bravery and courage. Chavez wanted to make a statement after dropping a decision in 2011 to Jorge "Maromerito" Paez.

Emilio never came out for the ninth, because of an injury to his right eye which Omar caused with a left hook in the eighth. Referee Olegario counted him out in the corner. Prior to the stoppage, Omar punished him against the ropes. Julio was brave and often stood toe toe with Chavez as they exchanged big power punches.