Boxing News Boxing News
Father Time may have finally caught up with WBO super flyweight king Omar Andres Narvaez as the 37 year old was pushed hard by 27 year old Mexican slugger Felipe Orucuta at Argentina’s famed Estadio Luna Park in Buenos Aires.
Having won 25 previous world title bouts on being difficult to hit, southpaw Narvaez had all kinds of trouble with Orucuta as the hard-punching challenger found the target with alarming regularity.
Omar Andres Narvaez had to delve into his vast experience to stay competitive with the much fresher Mexican, who was aggressive the entire contest.
But the Argentine hero also showed a steely chin and toughness to take hard shots, reeling off his own quick-handed offense at times when Felipe Orucuta would slow down or get off balance.
The champion won some early rounds on defense and guile but as the bout wore didn’t have the energy to avoid standing and trading with the Mexican.
Felipe Orucuta took advantage of this situation, particularly in the later rounds but could not hurt or floor the old master.
Omar Andres Narvaez was awarded the split decision victory, taking two of the cards 115-113 while Orucuta won the third 118-110.
Orucuta, now 27-2 (23), sees a nine bout win streak end but will likely get a rematch with Narvaez or perhaps an opportunity for a different title shot on the strength of his performance at Luna Park.
Narvaez improves to 39-1-2 (20), retaining the WBO strap for the seventh time but could possibly be looking at retirement, perhaps after a 40th victory.
