Prize Fight says "Stingray" Is Now WBO #1 Flyweight

Press Release: According to his promoter, Prize Fight Boxing, Rayonta “The Stingray” Whitfield (21-0, 10 KO’s) is now the WBO's #1 contender after his win Wednesday night against Manuel Vargas (24-3, 10 KO’s) on ESPN’s Wednesday Night Fights.  At the Bell Auditorium in Augusta, Georgia, “The Stingray” triumphed over Vargas by scores of 117-111, 116-112, and 114-114.  "This was the most critical fight of Rayonta's career and he passed the test with flying colors,” said Prize Fight Boxing’s Russ Young.  “Prize Fight couldn't be any happier, proud, and most importantly, ready for the title shot.” The title has been held for several years by Omar Narvaez, a 2000 Olympian from Argentina.

In the early rounds, Whitfield was bombarded with punishing leather to his head and body, but he quickly took control of the fight by using his superior speed and jabs, allowing him to outwork Vargas over the remainder of the fight.  Vargas attempted to come back in the championship rounds by pressing the action to Whitfield’s body, but “The Stingray” used was able to keep Vargas at bay.  In the twelfth and final round, Vargas threw punches from every angle in an attempt to knock out his opponent.  However, “The Stingray” once again used his legs to evade Vargas’ attack, countering effectively.  “We went into this fight knowing Vargas was a brawler, and I felt I had a great performance,” said Whitfield.  “I have a lot more intensity than I showed against Vargas, but I showed that I can box and move when I need to.  I hit him with some good shots, and I kept him at the end of my jab just like we planned to do.”

“Right now I’m at a level that I can face anyone,” said Whitfield.  “I know Narvaez is a slick southpaw, but I’m ready to go back to camp, and fight him as soon as possible.”