Masamichi Yabuki Stops Ángel Ayala in 12th Round to Win IBF Flyweight Title

In a dramatic encounter at the Aichi Sky Expo in Tokoname, Japan, Masamichi Yabuki captured the IBF flyweight title by defeating Ángel Ayala via technical knockout in the 12th round. The bout was marked by intense action, early knockdowns, and both fighters sustaining significant cuts.

Yabuki asserted his dominance early, flooring Ayala with a well-timed left hook in the closing moments of the first round. He continued his offensive in the second, delivering a powerful right hand that resulted in a second knockdown. During this round, an accidental clash of heads caused cuts to both fighters—Ayala suffered lacerations above and below his right eye, while Yabuki sustained a cut below his right eye.

Despite these setbacks, Ayala demonstrated resilience, rallying in the middle rounds and landing effective combinations that tested Yabuki's defence. However, Yabuki's consistent pressure and superior power began to take its toll. Entering the final round, all three judges had Yabuki leading with scores of 109-98. Aware of his position, Ayala pressed forward for a knockout but was met with a decisive right hand from Yabuki, sending him to his knees. Although Ayala managed to rise, Yabuki unleashed a relentless series of punches, prompting the referee to halt the contest at 1:54 of the 12th round.

This victory marks Yabuki's ascent as a two-division champion, having previously held the WBC light flyweight title. His professional record now stands at 18 wins and 4 losses. Conversely, Ayala experiences his first professional defeat, bringing his record to 18 wins and 1 loss. Yabuki's triumph positions him for potential high-profile matchups in the flyweight division, including a possible trilogy bout with Kenshiro Teraji.