By Elisinio Castillo (photo by Omar Solis)
Former two division world champion Ricardo Mayorga, 46-years-old, is not looking to retire any time soon.
On Saturday night in Guatamala, before a crowd of 1,500 screaming fans, Mayorga was demolished in two rounds by local amateur star Lester Martinez, who was making his professional debut - which has to be the most embarrassing loss of Mayorga's long career.
Mayorga looked like a punching bag in the fight, as he took heavy shots until the referee saved him in the second round.
Mayorga still has some pop in his punches, as Martinez later said "I felt that his hand had some weight to it."
But, after one round Mayorga came out in the second without reflexes, exhausted and confused. It can not be said that the Nicaraguan veteran lacked spirit and courage. He never stopped trying to exchange, but time does not forgive.
One would think this fight would be the end of the road, but when Mayorga was questioned about an immediate retirement in the aftermath - and he stated - "two more fights and I'll say goodbye to boxing."
His coach and close friend, Luis León, had a recommendation to him to hang up the gloves.
Mayorga has not won a fight in two years and four of his last five fights were knockout losses.
Martinez on the other hand was overwhelmed with the big win in his first pro fight. Now he plans to push forward with the ultimate goal of winning a world title down the line.
"Before the fight I was very nervous, but I knew that the strong preparation I had would pay off. Now I have to continue training," said Martinez, who left the ring to hug his parents after securing the win.
"I am happy to have achieved this first victory. I prepared myself in the best way possible and thank God I was able to achieve my goal. The victory dedicated to all of Guatemala."
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