Oscar Duarte’s Career Moment
On February 21st, boxer Oscar Duarte found himself in Las Vegas, gearing up for what promised to be a defining moment in his professional boxing career. At 30, the super lightweight was riding high from significant victories over notable competitors Joseph Diaz and Kenneth Sims, after suffering a knockout defeat against Ryan Garcia in 2023. However, he had been set to face off against the formidable Richardson Hitchins, the reigning IBF world champion, in a crucial match that many believed could pave his path into the top echelons of the sport alongside fellow contenders like Devin Haney and Shakur Stevenson.
Setback Before the Fight
Duarte had trained diligently under renowned trainer Robert Garcia in Riverside, California, and felt fully prepared to take on this test. His anticipation soon transformed into dismay when his brother called him with alarming news just hours before the fight: Hitchins had fallen ill and would be withdrawing from the match. This decision came after both fighters had managed to weigh in successfully the day before, and unfortunately, no specific details about the illness were provided.
“I felt sadness and disappointment,” Duarte reflected in a recent interview translated for Uncrowned. “I put in so much work, had my family come to support me — I was truly ready to fight.”
As Duarte made his way to the event and witnessed other fighters compete, he experienced an unsettling sensation. He was acutely aware that he had prepared extensively and was supposed to step into the ring that evening. Alongside the emotional fallout, the financial implications of the sudden cancellation loomed large. Having already invested in his training camp and incurred expenses for the trip, Duarte was unsure how this would affect his earnings.
“There were indications that I would receive a percentage of my purse,” he recounted. Discussions with Golden Boy Promotions’ founder Oscar De La Hoya suggested that the situation would be resolved, but the responsibility for payment was murky.
Although Duarte is signed with Golden Boy, the rights to the event had been sold to the Saudi Arabian company Sela, which reportedly has not wished to fulfill its obligations to pay Duarte. Sources informed Uncrowned that while Golden Boy is expected to cover a portion of what Duarte is owed, Sela should have been the one to ensure payment, particularly since they have not provided a doctor’s note as required to validate Hitchins’ withdrawal.
Controversy and Future Opportunities
Adding to the controversy, fellow boxer Ryan Garcia expressed skepticism regarding Hitchins’ claimed illness during a media appearance, hinting at potential questions about its validity. Despite the upheaval, Duarte remained adamant that his hard work deserves acknowledgment and respect from those involved.
In a twist to the situation, the IBF has mandated a separate bout between Hitchins and Lindolfo Delgado, sidelining any immediate rematch for Duarte. While he expressed happiness for Delgado, he still believes that a showdown with Hitchins is what true boxing fans desire.
“If Hitchins had any honor, he would fight me,” Duarte asserted.
Meanwhile, Duarte is ready to explore other opportunities in the ring. He mentioned a desire to fight well-known pugilist ‘Pitbull’ Isaac Cruz among other champions such as Gary Antuanne Russell, Shakur Stevenson, or Dalton Smith.
“I’ve worked hard for my shot at the title, and I’m prepared to take on anyone,” Duarte proclaimed, emphasizing his readiness for competition despite the recent setback with Hitchins.
As he awaits clarity on payment and future matchups, Duarte’s resolve remains strong; he did not lose in the ring, but his quest for recognition and recompense continues to challenge him off it.
