Imagine chasing a dream so big it spans two weight classes—that's exactly what Joe Cordina is doing, and he just took a giant leap closer to making it a reality. In a thrilling showdown against Gabriel Flores Jr., the Welsh warrior secured a unanimous points victory, setting the stage for a potential two-weight world title reign. But here's where it gets controversial: was Cordina's dominance as clear-cut as the judges' scores suggest? Let's dive in.
Joe Cordina, Wales' former IBF super-featherweight champion, outboxed his American rival at the Adventist Health Arena in Stockton, California, with the judges scoring the bout 117-110, 115-112, and 114-113. This fight wasn't just another match—it was a final eliminator for the WBO lightweight world title, currently held by Abdullah Mason after his epic clash with Sam Noakes in November. And this is the part most people miss: despite a point deduction in the sixth round for a rabbit punch, Cordina's control was more commanding than the scorecards might lead you to believe.
Cordina, 34, admitted post-fight, 'I got the win, but it wasn't exactly the way I wanted to do it.' Yet, his strategy was clear: relentless pressure. 'You can't come in and nick a fight off me,' he added. 'I forced him to the ropes, and he couldn't keep up with the pace.' This victory on Flores Jr's home turf marks Cordina's second win in the lightweight division, following his return from a 14-month hiatus with a points win over Jaret Gonzalez Quiroz in July, which earned him the vacant WBO global lightweight title.
Now, with a professional record of 19 wins (nine KOs) and just one defeat—a loss to Anthony Cacace in May 2024 that cost him his 130lb title—Cordina is poised to become the WBO's number one contender and mandatory challenger to Mason. But Flores Jr., 25, didn't go down without a fight. In round seven, he landed a stunning uppercut that momentarily buckled Cordina's knees, reminding everyone why he entered the bout with a six-fight winning streak (eight KOs). Still, it wasn't enough to stop Cordina's momentum.
Here's the bold question: Is Cordina truly ready to challenge Mason for the title, or did Flores Jr. expose vulnerabilities that could cost him in a championship fight? And what does this mean for the lightweight division as a whole? Share your thoughts below—let's spark a debate!
