Figueroa Claims Hard-Fought Decision in Grueling War Against Gonzalez
By Dong Secuya
PhilBoxing.com
Sun, 20 Jul 2025
In a contender for Fight of the Year, Brandon Figueroa emerged victorious over Joet Gonzalez by unanimous decision in an absolute barnburner on the undercard of the Pacquiao-Barrios welterweight title fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday night (Sunday in Manila). Judges scores: Tim Cheatham 116-112, David Sutherland 116-112 and Chris Migliore 115-113 all in favor of Figueroa.
However, the outcome is sure to spark lively debate among fans and pundits, as the 12-round featherweight clash was a relentless, back-and-forth affair, showcasing the heart and grit of both combatants.
From the opening bell, this was a phone-booth fight, a close-quarters battle where neither man took a backward step. Gonzalez (27-5, 15 KO), known for his toughness and consistent pressure, came out sharp, appearing to control the early to middle rounds with crisp combinations and effective body work. Indeed, for at least nine rounds, Gonzalez looked arguably the best he has ever been in his career, displaying a high work rate and surprising accuracy that seemingly put Figueroa on the back foot.
However, the "Heartbreaker" Figueroa (26-2-1, 19 KO) lived up to his moniker, demonstrating why he is one of boxing's most relentless forces. While he started a bit slower, absorbing punishment and allowing Gonzalez to build momentum, Figueroa's famous engine kicked into overdrive in the championship rounds. He dug deep, particularly in the final three frames, unleashing a sustained torrent of punches that visibly took their toll on Gonzalez.
The physical toll on Gonzalez was evident, as he showed significantly more visible damage on his face and took heavy punishment even in rounds where he was still landing. This late surge by Figueroa, characterized by his trademark non-stop punching, appears to have swayed the judges in a fight that was agonizingly close.
With the win Figueroa has upped his record to 26-2-1, 19KOS while Gonzalez dropped to 27-5-0 15KOs.
Earlier, former world champion Gary Russell Jnr of Maryland scored four knockdowns en route to a 10th round stoppage over Hugo Castañeda of Mexico in their 10-round lightweight bout.
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