The Ol' 1-2-WATCH👀: XANDER ZAYAS

Welcome to The Ol' 1-2-Watch Series. Here is where I'll be shining a light on some of boxing's most talented prospects and most underrated fighters. To start the series, we begin in the great boxing country of Puerto Rico. Introducing super welterweight contender, Xander Zayas.

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Xander Zayas began his career in his hometown of San Juan, Puerto Rico. His mum wanted him to learn how to fight so he could protect himself from bullies. Currently standing at 18-0, with 12 big wins by KO, Zayas is already looking like he could be a star in the sport of boxing. And still only 21! I think it’s fair to say Zayas could have a very bright future, but how will he perform when he inevitably steps up in competition?

Zayas has an aggressive, front foot style. His speed and accuracy make it difficult for opponents to avoid his punches. Zayas throws punches in bunches and his shot selection is elite. He rarely misses the target. In my opinion, his best fight was his most recent one against Valenzuela Jr, winning that fight in 5 rounds. A clinical Zayas dominated Valenzuela Jr. and broke his nose in the process, leaving the ref no choice but to stop the fight.

Zayas is always looking to cause serious damage to his opponent and because of that he often stops them. 12 KOs in 18 fights is a 66% KO rate and I honestly believe that % will rise, even with a step up in competition.

The super welterweight division is now up for grabs, after former undisputed champion Jermell Charlo left the division to challenge Canelo for his titles at super middleweight. Whether Charlo returns to 154lbs (super welterweight) is yet to be seen. But that provides an opportunity for someone else to take the limelight. There is no reason why that man can't be Xander Zayas.

After being linked with fights against Erickson ‘Hammer’ Lubin and Josh PBK (Pretty Boy Kelly), Zayas is not lacking in options for a big fight next. Not to mention the other big dogs in the division like WBO world champion Tim Tsyzu, former champ Jermell Charlo and the soon to be addition of P4P #1 Terence ‘Bud’ Crawford. 154 looks like it could be an exciting division for years to come.

If Xander Zayas wants to continue to build his name in the sport, he needs to start being a part of some serious fights. He has real talent and an exciting style, so no better time than now to put himself on the map and amongst the great Puerto Rican fighters in boxing history, like Miguel Cotto and Felix Trinidad. Zayas has a long way to go before he can be mentioned alongside them, but he is most definitely 1-2-Watch!

- AE