On March 1, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Sandor Martin is set to challenge Alberto Puello for the WBC super lightweight title, marking a significant moment not only in his career but also fulfilling a childhood dream. This historic bout will occur as part of a card headlined by the matchup between Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis and Lamont Roach, all organized by PBC, alongside Top Rank and OPI Since 82, and will be available for viewing on Prime Video.
Martin, boasting a professional record of 42 wins (15 by knockout) and 3 losses, is no stranger to the boxing world. Originally hailing from Barcelona, Spain, he made his U.S. debut in 2021, achieving what many considered the Upset of the Year by defeating the four-division world champion Mikey Garcia. Despite losing to the talented Teofimo Lopez via a controversial decision the following year, Martin's determination has only strengthened, leading him to back-to-back knockout victories against Arblin Kaba and Mohamed El Marcouchi.
“I'm living the dream I promised myself as a child of becoming world champion,” Martin shared during one of his recent media activities, illustrating the intensity of his ambition and the sacrifices he has made to reach this pivotal juncture. The 31-year-old fighter is not taking his upcoming challenge lightly. He expressed confidence and enthusiasm, saying, “The more they cheer him on, the more I'll hit him. It'll be fuel for me,” outlining his strategy for dealing with Puello's fan support.
Alberto Puello will enter the ring with the same undefeated record of 22 wins (10 KOs) as he defends his title. He captured the 140-pound interim championship last June and was elevated to Absolute Champion after Devin Haney requested to be recognized as Champion in Recess, making this fight even more significant for both boxers. Martin recognizes Puello as “a skilled fighter with good defense,” but believes wholeheartedly, “he's not as good as me.” Martin embraces the attitude of victory and the spirit of competition, determined to reclaim his place as one of the elite fighters.
The atmosphere surrounding Martin's preparations for this bout has been nothing short of electrifying. Just days before traveling to New York, he hosted friends and family for his final training session, emphasizing, “If you've received an invitation to be here, you're special to me.” This gathering highlighted the importance of his support system as he embarks on this life-altering challenge. With music from the popular Spanish duo Estopa playing, the camaraderie and encouragement among attendees were palpable, with former footballer Julio Salinas quipping, “You need to bring back the beautiful belt with your picture on it and show it off across Barcelona and Bilbao. You deserve recognition at Camp Nou and San Mamés,” adding to the motivational atmosphere.
Among the attendees was Henry Méndez, who praised Martin's discipline and readiness, stating, “He’s always ready to go. I wish him the best of luck,” underscoring the admiration Martin has earned from those close to him. Fabián Martín, another notable figure, likened Sandor's boxing intelligence to the prowess of soccer legend Lionel Messi: “He has tremendous intelligence, his technique is flawless, and his fitness level is extraordinary,” he complimented.
Going beyond the training, Martin has infused personal significance and pride leading to this fight. He has sacrificed social interactions and family time for over a year and half to focus on his training, rigorously dedicates around four and a half hours each day to physical exercises and boxing technique. “For me, this fight symbolizes revenge—I've come back to the city where I felt shortchanged after my last bout,” Martin emphasized, bringing added emotional weight to his aspirations.
He steps onto the stage of one of boxing's most renowned venues, determined to not only win the title but also to return home with the accolades and pride from his hometown fans. Martin vows to walk out of the ring victorious, asserting, “When I win, I will think of what it took to get here and my family for their unwavering support.” With the world title on the line, Martin's dream of becoming champion is close to realization. He also fantasizes about celebrating this achievement with his daughter, Jimena, as he has inscribed her name on his fight shorts, symbolizing his motivation and commitment to her future.
On March 1, fans can expect not only a fierce competition but also to witness the culmination of years of hard work and dedication distilled within Sandor Martin's performance. A fighter marking his legacy and fulfilling his dreams, filled with hopes and aspirations as he faces the challenge presented by Puello head-on.