Chocolatito Over the Shock of His First Loss, Aims For Knockout

By Steve Kim

Back on March 18th at the Madison Square Garden in New York, Roman Gonzalez lost his WBC super flyweight title to Wisakil Wangek (also known as Srisaket Sor Rungvisai) by the scores of 114-112 (twice) and 113-113.

Most observers believed 'Chocolatito' had done more than enough in the second half of the contest to retain his title. Instead, the tough Thai fighter saw his hands raised in victory.

Just like that Gonzalez (46-1, 38 KO's) lost his title, his undefeated mark and his status as the games premiere prizefighter.

During a media gathering to promote the rematch, which takes place on September 9th at the StubHub Center in Carson, California, the Nicaraguan star admitted to BoxingScene.com through his manager, Carlos Blandon - "I was definitely shocked and surprised. I was cut but I gave my all and fought every round to the fullest and I believe that it definitely wasn't the right decision but I know it's a part of boxing."

Gonzalez hit the canvas in the first round but rebounded quickly and was back into the fight and throwing his trademark combinations in what was one of the better bouts of 2017. After a review of the fight, the WBC mandated an immediate return match between the two.

"I'm happy and motivated that the rematch is right around the corner. I want to thank the WBC for ordering the rematch, my father, Akihiko Honda of Teiken Promotions and HBO for making this possible," said Gonzalez, who is headlining a card that features a trio of super flyweight match-ups.

"I'm hoping to God we have a good result on the night of the fight and hopefully I'll get the knockout."

When asked if he expects a similar contest to the one that took place in March, Gonzalez replied - "I believe it's going to be a different fight. I studied a lot of video and this time it will be different, I'll be more careful with the head butts."

Steve Kim is the news editor for BoxingScene.com.