Published February 28, 2004
Ringside Report & Photos by Chris Cozzone
Another exciting pro debuter to keep an eye on is Monica Lovato.
She was up next, matched up against tough Leanne Villareal, who took the fight on 1 1/2 days notice despite having fought a four-round war with 6-0 Jackie Chavez last week in Roswell.
Against Lovatoís southpaw stance and aggressive style, Villareal was outgunned.
Lovato wasted no time in the first, coming right at the shorter Villareal and popping her with straight punches, keeping her foe on the defense.
Villareal tried to counter with loopy punches and occasional uppercuts, but Lovato was all over her, finding a home for a powerful straight left hand.
Lovato dominated the last round, rocking Villareal several times and hurting her with quick combinations.
At the end of four, it was a no-brainer: 40-36 x 3 for Lovato.
Villareal vs. Lovato was, by far, the best fight of the night and Lovato, my pick for ëFighter of the Night.
One-twenty-two pound females beware . . . .
# # #
Results:
Monica Lovato (1-0) UD 4 Leanne Villareal (0-2)