By Jake Donovan
The last time Alejandro 'Payasito' Hernandez claimed a win over Isao Carranza, it kicked off arguably the best year of his career, to date. With that comes the hope that a repeat feat produces an even bigger 2016 campaign, as the former bantamweight challenger cruised to a unanimous decision in their 10-round headliner Friday evening at Auditorio Blackberry in Mexico City.
Scores were 99-91 (twice) and 97-93 in favor of Hernandez, who claimed a much closer victory in their first fight more than two years ago.
Unlike their original meet, the sequel gained airtime, serving as the headliner for the 2016 spring season finale of Boxeo Telemundo. Also unlike their first fight, Hernandez had a much easier go of things after overcoming a brief deficit.
His first win over Carranza kicked off a stellar 2014 campaign that saw upset victories over title hopefuls Marvin Mabait and Daniel Rosas. With that streak came Hernandez' first shot at a full version of an alphabet belt, though coming up short in his 12-round waltz with then-unbeaten bantamweight titlist Tomoki Kameda.
Friday's rematch with Carranza came one division north at super bantamweight, where Hernandez appearing more fluid in his attack. Carranza enjoyed early success but quickly fell behind and never figured out a way to regain momentum. The local journeyman had his share of singular moments but unable to put together the type of sustained attack that made their 2014 clash so competitive.
Hernandez advances to 31-11-2 (16KOs) with his third consecutive win, all of which have taken place at this very venue and on Telemundo airwaves. Carranza falls to 15-7-1 (9KOs), as he is now 5-6-1 in his last 12 starts.
Boxeo Telemundo will kick off its summer season beginning June 24 at a location to be determined. The summer premiere will be followed with shows on July 1, July 8 and July 15.
Jake Donovan is the managing editor of BoxingScene.com. Twitter: @JakeNDaBox
