Marlen Esparza is celebrating a successful defense…

The 33-year-old Mexican American boxer successfully defended her WBA and WBC flyweight titles against Venezuela’s Eva Guzman at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas.

Esparza controlled a high-action fight and won a unanimous decision 98-92, 98-92, 99-92, earning a 10-round decision.

Esparza—a 2012 Olympic Bronze medalist for the U.S.—patiently boxed and stood her ground, as Guzman came forward bursting with energy in her first major title fight. It was also a massive leap in competition for the petite Venezuelan, all of 4’11 ½” and whose level of opposition was abysmal despite emerging as a mandatory challenger. What was lacking in experience was compensated for in activity, as Guzman was in constant motion as she sought openings for her right hands.

The cleaner, crisper punches were all landed by Esparza, often with her jab and also enjoying success with her straight right and body shots. Esparza outmuscled Guzman on the inside, using her sheer strength to free herself out of clinches driving back Guzman.

Esparza (13-1, 1 KO) won her sixth fight in a row since her loss to current champion Seniesa Estrada in November 2019.

Guzman (19-2-1, 11 KOs), a mandatory challenger made her U.S. debut.”