Photos by Chris Cozzone
Fernando “KOchulito” Montiel (39-2-1, 29 KOs) captured history as he became only the fourth Mexican fighter in history to earn three world titles in as many divisions by knocking out the overmatched Argentinean Diego Oscar Silva (24-2-3, 12 KOs), in the third round, to strap on the WBO bantamweight title around his waist.
The first round was uneventful as both fighters tried to find their range. Silva seemed the slight quicker at the two with his fists while Montiel was able to slip the majority of the punches thrown by the Argentinean.
In the second, Silva became more aggressive as he missed huge with a left hook. “KOchul” circled around effortlessly landing jabs at will. Midway thru the round, Montiel landed a crisp left hook to the nose of Silva that buckled the knees of Silva.
Near the end of the round, Montiel landed a devastating straight right hand that sent Silva smashing into the canvas. Silva beat the count and survived the stanza.
Montiel welcomed Silva to the third round with a bomb of a left hook that hurt Silva and sent him down to the canvas once again. Silva beat the count but looked worse for wear as he bled from the nose and mouth. Although Silva seemed to be ready to go, Montiel was patient as he bided his time for the opportunity to attack.
The time came soon enough as both fighters threw punches simultaneously, Montiel’s right uppercut got there quicker dismantling Silva to the canvas. Referee Raul Caiz Sr. didn’t bother to administer a count.
The time was 2:24 of the third round.
With the win, Montiel joins an elite group of Mexican champions that have won three world titles in as many divisions. Along with Montiel, Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera and Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. have reached the milestone.
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