Amanda Serrano's triumphant return to Puerto Rico was a masterclass in boxing, but it wasn't without its challenges. The champion, defending her WBA, WBO, and Ring Magazine featherweight titles, secured a hard-fought victory against Reina Tellez, proving her dominance in the ring.
Fighting in her homeland for the first time since 2021, Serrano showcased her ring IQ and power at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan. Her sharp combinations were a constant threat, but Tellez, stepping in on just 15 days' notice, didn't make it easy. In the fifth round, Tellez landed an overhand left that caused swelling under Serrano's right eye.
But here's where Serrano's experience truly shone. The seven-division world champion maintained control in the later rounds, leading to scores of 98-92, 97-93, and 97-93 in her favor. Serrano's post-fight words were full of respect: "I'm super thankful and grateful to Reina for coming on short notice and coming to fight. She's a warrior."
The fight, contested over 10 three-minute rounds under men's boxing rules, boosted Serrano's professional record to an impressive 48 wins, with 4 defeats - three of which were against the undisputed light-welterweight champion Katie Taylor - and one draw.
Serrano expressed her satisfaction, stating, "It's been two years since I fought at this weight. I feel the next fights are going to be much better and I'm glad I could give the fans a show."
In the co-main event, Holly Holm aimed to become a four-division boxing champion, but was outpointed by WBA lightweight title-holder Stephanie Han. The fight was stopped in the seventh round due to a cut on Han's forehead from an accidental head clash. The champion retained her title by unanimous decision. Holm, aged 44, returned to professional boxing in 2025 after a 12-year hiatus, having previously focused on mixed martial arts with the UFC.
The bout had originally been planned as a rematch with Erika Cruz, who withdrew following an atypical finding in a Voluntary Anti-Doping Association test. Serrano started strong, utilizing sharp body work and accurate left hands from her southpaw stance.
Tellez, who missed the featherweight limit and therefore couldn't win the titles, fought mostly defensively but gained confidence as the fight progressed. Despite the damage to her eye, Serrano remained the aggressor, skillfully managing the distance and protecting her vision. She reasserted control in the closing rounds, increasing the pressure and unleashing sustained combinations in the tenth, though a late stoppage didn't materialize.
And this is the part most people miss... The event, promoted by Most Valuable Promotions, founded by Jake Paul, paid tribute to Sina Ghami and Latif "Latz" Ayodele, friends of former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, who tragically passed away in a car crash. Their names were displayed on the ring canvas.
What do you think? Did Serrano's experience and ring IQ make the difference? Do you think Tellez's short notice impacted her performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
