Introduction
In one of the most electrifying undercard bouts on September 13, 2025, at Allegiant Stadium, Christian Mbilli and Lester Martinez delivered a grueling, action-packed super middleweight showdown that ended in a dramatic split draw. While no one truly “won,” the high-octane slugfest has boxing fans clamoring for a rematch. In this article, we dive deep into the fight’s build-up, timing, outcome, round-by-round action, what’s next for both fighters, and answer the burning FAQs around one of the most exciting undercard bouts in recent memory.
1. When Was the Fight, and at What Time Did It Happen?
The fight took place on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, forming part of the undercard for the monumental Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford main event. The event’s preliminary card began around 5:30 p.m. ET on YouTube, while the main card, including Mbilli vs Martinez, started at 9:00 p.m. ET on Netflix .
2. Who Won? And What Was the Official Result?
The fight concluded without a decisive victor—officially declared a split draw:
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One judge scored it 97-93 for Martinez
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Another scored 96-94 for Mbilli
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The third judge called it even at 95-95
As a result, Christian Mbilli retains his WBC interim super middleweight title.
3. Why It Was a Fight of the Year Contender
From round one, the pace was relentless. Observers quickly dubbed the match “a 10-round phone booth” of non-stop action. Early rounds saw Mbilli press forward with furious body shots and combinations, while Martinez delivered punishing counter-uppercuts and hooks.
By fight’s end, fans and commentators agreed it was one of the most memorable slugfests of the year.
4. Round-by-Round Breakdown
Here’s how the rounds unfolded, per detailed analysis sources:
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Rounds 1-2: Mbilli starts aggressively with body shots; Martinez counters effectively.
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Rounds 3-4: Martinez mixes sharp jabs and combinations; Mbilli presses forward, landing heavy hooks.
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Rounds 5-6: Mbilli gains momentum using pressure and combinations; Martinez retaliates with uppercuts and precise jabs.
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Rounds 7-8: Physical toll becomes visible—both fighters exchange blows in high-tempo exchanges.
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Rounds 9-10: Round 9 favors Martinez; round 10 goes back to Mbilli—but overall, neither relents, ending the fight on a furious note.
5. Fight Statistics & Aftermath
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CompuBox stats revealed Martinez landed significantly more punches: 412 of 980 vs Mbilli’s 273 of 787.
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The crowd responded with three standing ovations, acknowledging the warriors’ heart and tenacity.
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Mbilli, now 30-0-1 (24 KOs), keeps his WBC interim belt and mandatory challenger standing.
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Martinez, now 19-0-1 (16 KOs), elevated his profile significantly by shining on a world stage.
6. What’s Next for Mbilli and Martinez
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Christian Mbilli remains in line to face the winner of Canelo vs Crawford—having explicitly signaled that desire beforehand.
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Lester Martinez, despite the draw, demonstrated he belongs at elite level and could similarly contend for a title opportunity—especially if a rematch eventuates.
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With fans and commentators hailing it a rematch-worthy “Fight of the Year contender,” buzz is strong that promoters may rebook them in the near future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What time did the Christian Mbilli vs Lester Martinez fight start?
The fight occurred on September 13, 2025, as part of the main card that began at 9:00 p.m. ET on Netflix, with prelims starting at 5:30 p.m. ET on YouTube.
2. Who won the fight—Mbilli or Martinez?
Neither. The bout concluded in a split draw, with judges scoring it 97-93 for Martinez, 96-94 for Mbilli, and 95-95 even.
3. Does Mbilli retain his title?
Yes. As the incumbent WBC interim super middleweight champion, Mbilli retained his belt following the draw.
4. What made this fight stand out?
It was a high-octane, nonstop back-and-forth with both fighters absorbing relentless punishment and refusing to back down—prompting fans and media to label it a “Fight of the Year” classic.
5. Will there be a rematch?
While no confirmation yet, widespread acclaim and demand for a rematch make a return bout highly plausible.
6. What’s next for Mbilli and Martinez?
Mbilli remains poised to challenge the winner of Canelo vs Crawford, while Martinez has proven he can compete at the highest level and may continue rising toward a title opportunity.
Conclusion
The Christian Mbilli vs Lester Martinez fight, though officially a draw, captured the essence of boxing — raw power, relentless pace, and unwavering heart. Held at a prime time alongside a headline-setting main event, this undercard clash didn’t just steal the show—it demanded a return. With Mbilli retaining his interim title and Martinez making a strong case for himself, their stories are far from over. The boxing world watches now, anticipating what’s next.
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