SANTA FE, NM (September 27, 2016) – Cuba’s Yordenis Ugas (17-3, 8 KOs) defeated his second straight unbeaten welterweight Tuesday night as he stopped Bryant Perrella (14-1, 13 KOs) in the fourth round on Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes in the main event from Buffalo Thunder Resort and Casino in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Ugas defeated previously unbeaten Jamal James in August and dedicated this fight to his friend and fellow Cuban, Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez, who tragically passed away Sunday morning in Miami. Ugas was spectacular from the outset as his first overhand right of the night connected with Perrella and sent him to the canvas.
“The right hand was there early and all night long,” said Ugas. “I was able to land it from the beginning. Then I went to the body. Before I left my corner to start the fight, I said a prayer for Jose, and for sure that was my motivation. I felt his spirit throughout the fight.”
The taller Perrella attempted to control the fight with his jab and looked to land big left hands from the southpaw stance. Ugas was patient throughout the fight and kept his defense tight, never allowing Perrella to break through.
At the end of the third round Ugas landed another big right hand that pushed Perrella into the ropes and forced him into survival mode until the round ended. Perrella tried to get his attack going in the fourth round but Ugas was patiently waiting to deliver powerful counters with the right hand.
Another punishing right hand in the middle of the round sent Perrella hard to the mat and clearly dazed when he rose to his feet. Ugas sensed his moment and attacked Perrella, eventually stalking him into the corner. A final flurry from Ugas forced referee Rocky Burke to halt the bout 2:20 into the round.
“This shows that I’ve put all my losses behind me,” said Ugas. “It doesn’t matter who I fight next. I’m ready for anyone in the division.”
