However, the match was not without controversy: Jimenez was apparently hit by an inadvertent headbutt that knocked him unconscious for minutes. But instead of a no-contest, ringside officials declared Villanueva the victor.
Five months later, the two boxers will square off once again to settle the score. Villanueva aims to make it two in a row against the Mexican and finally erase all doubts with a convincing win.
“Yung unang laban kasi namin medyo hindi impressive,” Villanueva admitted of his performance, using it as motivation for this fight. “Naging controversial yung laban namin kaya ngayon mas pinaghandaan ko pa
“Alam ko naman na nag-prepare pa ngayon si Jimenez. Alam ko na gusto niya bumawi. So ngayon mas papatunayan ko pa na ako talaga yung kampeon.”
In their first encounter, the heavy-handed Jimenez had had the upper hand in the fight and showed his power, sending the Negros Occidental-native to the canvas in the second round.
According to the ALA Boxing standout, he has learned from what happened and is now carefully studying his opponent’s tendencies in preparation for their upcoming fight at the StubHub Center in Carson, California, this September 24 (September 25, Philippine Time).
“Mas pinag-aralan ko yung nakaraang laban namin at mga previous niyang laban, then siyempre sa last fight namin, meron din akong natutunan,” the 27 year old shared.
“Hindi siya basta bastang boxer eh, napaka-dangerous din. May lakas yung kaliwa’t kanan niya na suntok kaya pinaghandaan ko talaga yun.”
ALA Boxing coach Edito Villamor reiterated that Jimenez’ power is the team’s primary concern heading into their rematch, and the team is coming up with a strategy to combat El Peñita’s explosive offense.
“Si Jimenez isa-isa lang sumuntok pero may power. Kailangan mabantayan o i-defend niya yun para ma-counter niya,” he said, adding that fans will see a more motivated Villanueva in this ring, itching to put a decisive end to their rivalry.
“Mas exciting ngayon ang laban nila kasi si Arthur parang gusto niyang kunin (yung panalo), gusto niyang ipakita sa mga Pilipino na manalo siya ng wala ng controversy.”
