How Xander Zayas defeated Patrick Teixeira by unanimous decision

Puerto Rican boxing has found one of its brightest prospects in 21-year-old Xander Zayas (19-0, 12 KOs). The San Juan native remained undefeated with a dominant unanimous decision victory over Brazilian veteran Patrick Teixeira (34-5, 25 KOs).

Zayas controlled the fight from start to finish, earning lopsided scorecards of 100-90, 100-90, and 99-91 at the Theater at Madison Square Garden. His precision was on full display, landing clean shots to Teixeira’s head while relentlessly punishing his body. By the end of the bout, Teixeira had suffered a shattered left cheekbone.

After the fight, Zayas expressed interest in facing Erickson Lubin, Josh Kelly, and Vito Mielnicki Jr. According to the World Boxing Council rankings, Lubin holds the Silver title, Kelly is considered the top British contender in the division, and Mielnicki is the reigning youth champion.

Following Zayas’ win, Golden Boy Promotions president Oscar De La Hoya took to X (formerly Twitter), saying he “can’t wait” to organize a bout between Zayas and Vergil Ortiz Jr.

Related stories

NBA

Family reunion at the Golden State Warriors?

NFL

Shemar Stewart breaks the deadlock and signs with a new team

Ortiz, one of the top American fighters, boasts an impressive 21-0 record—all by knockout. The Dallas-born boxer still holds the WBA Gold title at welterweight, although his last two fights have taken place in the 154-pound division.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.