The officiating panel’s decision awarded scores of 99-91, 99-91, and 100-90 to Pagan, who successfully retained his WBO NABO lightweight championship during the headline bout of a Salita Promotions event broadcast on DAZN. Jimenez’s record now stands at 18 wins, 3 losses, with 10 knockout victories.
The initial stages of the contest proceeded in a disciplined and systematic manner. Pagan utilized his jab effectively, landed direct right punches consistently, and maintained distance from Jimenez. He established an early advantage by prevailing cleanly in exchanges and steering clear of extended close-quarters combat. During this period, the heavily favored fighter appeared to be heading for an uncomplicated victory.
Jimenez intensified the aggression in the central rounds, altering the match’s dynamic. The boxer from Nicaragua advanced aggressively, attacked the torso, and maneuvered Pagan against the ropes. A laceration appeared above Pagan’s eyebrow, heightening the drama and allowing Jimenez a period of advantage as he escalated his offensive effort. Pagan continued to accumulate round victories, yet he was compelled to exert more effort than originally foreseen.
The concluding two rounds saw the momentum revert. Pagan regained his composure, delivered a precise right punch in the ninth round that briefly staggered Jimenez, and concluded the tenth with more refined, steady execution. The judges’ tallies underscored the initial superiority and subsequent command.
For Pagan, this represented a triumphant return to his home territory and, ostensibly, further progress. He maintains his unbeaten record and is expected to advance nearer to the WBO’s elite group in the 135-pound division. Nevertheless, the showing indicated that continuous aggression can challenge him when the tempo changes and the contest becomes less foreseeable.
The triumph is confirmed. The developmental process persists. This particular display from Pagan constituted a regression. While he secured the win, his execution was not akin to that of a premier 135-pound athlete when facing an opponent he ought to have overpowered.
