The Fight between Julio César Martínez and McWilliams Arroyo
The fight between Julio César Martínez and McWilliams Arroyo was the highlight of the day to be held on Saturday, June 25 in San Antonio, Texas, United States. However, the Mexican, WBC Flyweight champion, will not step into the ring to face the Puerto Rican due to health problems.
The news was confirmed by Mauricio Sulaimán, the president of the WBC, through a message on social media. "We deeply regret that the WBC confirms that the WBC Flyweight champion Julio César Martínez has withdrawn from the fight against the WBC interim champion McWilliams Arroyo. The exact details have not been revealed yet. WBC will address this terrible situation," he expressed.
Shortly after, also through his official accounts, 'Rey' Martínez gave details of the situation that led him to make such a decision. "We are still in the hospital, I apologize for what is happening, I don't have things under control, I got a very strong infection," expressed the Mexican. "I don't know if I will stay hospitalized, but what I do know is that I am willing to face whoever and words are unnecessary," he added.
To conclude, the owner of the title assured that he aims to conquer championships when he recovers. "Things are not just talked about, they are proven. I thank God and my team who never leave me alone and I'm going for it all. Soon, through actions, they will know who the 'Rey' is and sorry, my people, this is just the beginning and we are going for all those belts," he concluded.
On the other hand, McWilliams Arroyo did not waste time and pointed out 'Rey' Martínez. "He does it again and once again my career has to stop due to irresponsibilities of both him and his team... For me, it is a tragedy what happened, as they were left wanting just like me, to show all the sacrifice for this fight," he said.
Later, Arroyo recalled that he prepared to face the fight and with the unexpected cancellation, the Puerto Rican wants to know what will happen. "We hope for a fair decision from the WBC because we know how serious Mr. Mauricio and his entire team are," he concluded in a statement issued on his social media.
Martínez and Arroyo were going to face each other again, after their fight in November last year ended in a No Contest. The Puerto Rican suffered a cut on his right eyelid and the ringside doctor indicated that the boxer could not continue. Previously, in 2020 and 2021, the 'Rey' canceled his fights against the Puerto Rican due to an injury in his fist and a flu-like illness, respectively.