Hiraoka: “Jose Valenzuela, I Am Coming For You!”

In a display of dominance and discipline, Japan’s Andy Hiraoka (24-0, 19 KOs) seized the WBA Interim Junior Welterweight Championship by stopping veteran Ismael Barroso in the ninth round. The victory not only solidified Hiraoka’s unbeaten record but also earned him the mandatory challenger position for the full WBA title, currently held by Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela.

Hiraoka entered the ring with a laser focus, displaying a level of discipline that left Barroso (25-5-2, 22 KOs) unable to mount any meaningful offense. From the opening bell, Hiraoka controlled the fight with a sharp, punishing jab that kept the hard-hitting Barroso at a safe distance. The Japanese contender’s methodical approach paid off as he patiently dismantled his opponent, round by round.

By the ninth round, Hiraoka sensed that the moment was ripe to put an end to the contest. Unleashing a series of devastating combinations, Hiraoka sent Barroso sprawling to the canvas not once, but twice, forcing Barroso’s corner to wave the white towel at 2:58 of the round. The referee’s stoppage crowned Hiraoka the new WBA Interim Junior Welterweight Champion, a victory that marks his 19th knockout in 24 professional bouts.

However, Hiraoka’s celebration was short-lived. In a rare moment of boldness, the typically reserved fighter immediately turned his attention to the man at the top of the division, Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela. During his post-fight interview, Hiraoka threw down the gauntlet, declaring, “Jose Valenzuela, I am coming for you!”

This challenge is out of character for Hiraoka, known more for his quiet confidence than for making bold public statements. Yet, the intensity of his declaration signals just how eager he is to capture the full WBA title and establish himself as the premier fighter in the junior welterweight division.

Valenzuela (14-2, 9 KOs) currently holds the WBA title after a hard-fought split decision victory over Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz in August. Valenzuela is reportedly the leading candidate to face Gervonta “Tank” Davis in what would be a blockbuster PBC on Prime pay-per-view event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, on November 2. While the fight with Davis has yet to be finalized, it is clear that Valenzuela has become a sought-after opponent at 140 pounds.

Regardless of Valenzuela’s next move, Hiraoka has now officially announced his arrival on the junior welterweight title scene. As he continues to climb the ranks, one thing is certain—Andy Hiraoka is a name that will be impossible to ignore in the world of boxing. With his victory over Barroso and his direct challenge to Valenzuela, Hiraoka has set the stage for what could be one of the most anticipated matchups in the division and a chance to give Japan another world champion.