Using Munguia as the opponent for Resendiz brings in a recognizable name that fans can take notice of. He’s popular in Mexico and has a lot of fans in the Southern California area. He has a glittering 45-2 record, but virtually all of those wins have come against fringe-level opposition. You can say he’s been matched very well by his various promoters to create that kind of record.
Jermall Charlo had been discussed as an alternative during that period, and reports earlier this week pointed in that direction. Those talks did not result in a fight, with Munguia ultimately securing the shot once terms were resolved.
“Nothing. Was never made. Was just a possibility despite some reports,” said Dan Rafael on X when asked what happened with Jermall being the one to challenge Resendiz on the May 2 card.
It would have been risky to use Jermall as the opponent for Resendiz, as he’s about to turn 36 in May, has a history of injury problems, and has fought just twice in the last five years since 2021. They would have needed a fighter on standby if Charlo had been used in case he pulled out at the last minute.
Munguia isn’t an ideal option either, but for a different reason. With a 2-2 record in his last four fights, he’s being rewarded for failure. Diego Pacheco or Lester Martinez are arguably better fits to challenge Resendiz for a world title based on what they’ve done lately.
The matchup brings the card back to its original direction, with a Mexican title fight now in place after a short delay in negotiations. Reséndiz moves forward with his first defence on a major stage. The opponent is now set.
