Get ready to ring in the new year with a bang! On December 31 at 11 a.m. ET, Fernando Martinez will defend his WBA and IBF junior bantamweight belts against Kazuto Ioka in an anticipated rematch, streaming live on ESPN+ from Tokyo, Japan.
Their first meeting back in July was a scorcher, with the Argentinian Martinez claiming Ioka’s WBA title in addition to keeping his IBF strap. Though Martinez got the victory, many felt the judges’ scorecards were unusually wide, especially the 120-108 tally. Ioka’s body punching impressed fans, and he’s eager to settle the score in this return bout.
Martinez will once again be tested by Ioka’s slick ring IQ and experience. The 35-year-old Japanese warrior aims to prove he’s still got plenty in the tank and grab a measure of revenge. If Ioka succeeds, a potential trilogy could be on the horizon.
Whether it’s repeat or revenge, Martinez vs. Ioka II promises another firefight—perfect for boxing diehards looking to cap off 2024 in style. Don’t miss it!
Prepare for Martinez vs. Ioka II event here!
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