Mortensen prevails in dramatic finish against Flores – World Boxing Association

In a high-intensity clash of styles at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California, Denmark’s Melissa Mortensen preserved her unbeaten record and was crowned the new WBA Super Bantamweight World Champion after defeating gritty former Mexican champion Mayeli Flores Rosquero by split decision.

Suspense filled the California venue as the judges’ scorecards were announced. Two judges scored the bout 95-94 for Mortensen, while the third official awarded the same score to Flores, 95-94, sealing a razor-thin victory for the European fighter and sending her corner into celebration.

The fight reached a pivotal moment in the second round, when Flores landed a pinpoint left hook to the body that sent Mortensen to the canvas. Rather than fold, Mortensen showed tremendous heart and remarkable recuperative ability, rising to her feet, weathering the storm and making key tactical adjustments. From the third round on, the taller European made effective use of her height and reach, landing straight punches and rapid-fire combinations to keep Flores’ relentless pressure at bay.

The championship rounds offered no letup in the pace. Flores continued to press at close range, while Mortensen relied on her footwork and sharp counterpunching to bank crucial points down the stretch. With this memorable victory, Melissa Mortensen improves her professional record, captures the coveted WBA black-and-gold belt at 122 pounds and takes her place among the elite of the division.