By Jake Donovan
Rumors have begun to swirl regarding a potential featherweight title fight between defending beltholder Nicholas ‘Axe Man’ Walters and top-rated contender Claudio ‘The Matrix’ Marrero.
Should a deal be reached, plans call for the battle of unbeaten featherweights to take place on May 11 in Kingston, Jamaica.
Marrero (14-0, 11KO) has been fast tracked to contention in less than three years as a pro. The Dominican southpaw fought five times in 2012, with each of his past four bouts scheduled for ten rounds. His most recent appearance – a 4th round knockout of Mauricio Martinez in Florida last November – was enough to convince his handlers to begin pursuing title fight opportunities.
Chasing after an unbeaten knockout artist in Walters speaks of such ambition.
“I have not heard back from Walters’ camp. However, ‘The Matrix’ is ready to fight anyone, anywhere anytime,” states Henry Rivalta of Acquinity Sports, Marrero’s promoter. “I have the utmost respect for Nicholas and know he is a great fighter. This fight will make for a great battle for all fans who appreciate real boxing.
“As soon as I know more I will keep you guys updated as to the progress. As of now I have not received a contract for the fight. We are ready to visit Kingston anytime.”
Walters (22-0, 18KO) is coming off of a career-best performance, scoring a 7th round knockout of Daulis Prescott (younger brother to 140 lb. fringe contender Breidis Prescott) last December. The feat, which netted Walters a vacant 126 lb. belt, took place in Kingston, Jamaica, just his second fight in his homeland.
The majority of Walters’ pro career has taken place in Panama. However, a generous bid placed by Jamaica pay-cable network SportsMax allowed the fight to take place on the island. The network was granted permission by the Jamaica Boxing Board of Control (JBBC) to serve as a promoter and plans to remain in the boxing business.
While SportsMax does not directly promote Walters, there is considerable interest in keeping the knockout artist at home should his camp be able to reach terms with Marrero for the planned mandatory title defense.
“We have heard rumors of the fight, but nothing is yet confirmed,” stated SportsMax Marketing Manager Tanya Lee. “Once the fight is signed and if confirmed to take place in Jamaica, we are prepared to promote and air the fight live. We promoted Mr. Walters’ last fight and hope to once again do business with the champion and his team.”
Jake Donovan is the Managing Editor of Boxingscene.com, as well as a member of Transnational Boxing Ratings Board, Yahoo Boxing Ratings Panel and the Boxing Writers Association of America. Twitter: @JakeNDaBox
