Carfunjol Crowned WBA Youth World Champion – World Boxing Association

In a commanding display of power and precision, Venezuelan prospect José Gabriel Carfunjol captured the World Boxing Association (WBA) lightweight youth world title after stopping Mexico’s Alejandro Ledezma Esparza by second-round technical knockout in Madrid.

The highly anticipated clash of styles came to an explosive end with 1:40 remaining in the second round, forcing the referee to step in and halt the punishment.

From the opening bell, Carfunjol established control of the fight behind his range management and a sharp, snapping left jab that consistently disrupted Ledezma Esparza’s attempts to close the distance. The Mexican challenger, true to his country’s traditional pressure-fighting style, tried to work his way inside, but repeatedly ran into the composed defense and timing of the Venezuelan standout.

With the victory, José Gabriel Carfunjol continues his impressive rise through the professional ranks, adding the prestigious WBA youth lightweight crown to his résumé while officially establishing himself as one of the most promising young forces in South American boxing under the WBA banner heading into the remainder of 2026.

On the other side, Ledezma Esparza suffers a painful setback in his bid to capture championship glory on foreign soil.