In a watershed event in Venezuelan boxing history, Carlos “CCC” Canizales (28-3-1, 20 KOs) avenged a contentious loss by knocking out Panya Pradabsri in the rematch, claiming the WBC light flyweight championship in spectacular way at El Poliedro in Caracas on August 1, 2025. Unlike their previous meeting in Bangkok, which resulted in a contested majority decision, this one was clear.

Round‑by‑Round Breakdown: From Knocking on the Door to Crushing Finish

Canizales applied early pressure with strong combinations to both the body and the head in rounds 1-3. Pradabsri sought to weather the storm with defense and counterattacks, but was gradually worn down. Then, in Round 4, Pradabsri retaliated with a stinging right cross that sent Canizales into the ropes and earned him a much-needed knockout. Although spectacular, it only provided a momentary relief.

The turning moment came in Round 5, when Canizales closed in on a persistently successful midsection attack, ultimately delivering a liver hook so powerful that Pradabsri collapsed in his corner and was called out after falling unconscious. The stage was cleared after Canizales was declared the new champion.

Redemption Arc: Canizales Erases Previous Decisions

Eight months earlier, in Bangkok, many analysts, including Ring Magazine, thought that Canizales had done enough to win, but the judges ruled in favor of Pradabsri by a majority. Outraged by the ruling, the WBC demanded an instant rematch.

Tonight, in front of his home audience, Canizales gave poetic justice, convincingly wrapping the championship around his waist where it should have been in the beginning.

Tale of the Tape and Stakes at Light Flyweight

Panya Pradabsri (34) came in with an outstanding 44-2 record and a 61% knockout rate, riding the wave of his previous two-weight world championship. Although disputed, his first win against Canizales established him as the WBC’s 108-pound champion.

Carlos Canizales (32) had a 27-3-1 record and an even better KO rate (70%). He was known for his pressure, volume punching, and high-stakes experience, including close defeats to Kenshiro Teraji.

The WBC accepted Canizales’ rematch at 108 lbs due to disagreement about the previous judgment, providing him with a second chance at redemption as well as the championship.

What We Learned: Power, Purpose & New Chapter

Power Still Reigns at Light‑Flyweight
Canizales’ knockout demonstrates that body blows are just as devastating in the lighter divisions—precision can take down even the most guarded fighters.

Momentum Matters More than Location

Despite battling in Venezuela, Pradabsri enjoyed early success, but Canizales took control of the narrative—and the title—in the middle of the match.

Judging Matters, But Getting the Rematch Matters More

Controversial decisions damage credibility. The WBC’s fast rematch order confirmed justice and allowed the problem to be finally resolved.

New Champion with Style and a Story.

Canizales’ stunning knockout takes the spotlight away from the robbery storyline and into domination. He is presently the light flyweight champion, with ambitions to unify or seek other elite fights.

What’s Next for Both Fighters?

Canizales will definitely earn breakout opportunities, potentially in unification bouts against IBF’s Thanongsak Simsri or The Ring’s other top contenders.

Pradabsri, who has already tasted loss on foreign territory, may recover and pursue a third championship battle, or he may watch developing stars such as Kyosuke Takami (new WBO champion) grow.

Final Thoughts

Carlos Canizales vanquished uncertainty and injustice with brutal effectiveness in Caracas. His body shot knockout of Panya Pradabsri not only won him the WBC light flyweight belt, but also justified a rematch that no one desired more. Pradabsri’s first loss in 11 years serves as a call to action against violence and authority. The light flyweight division has a new king, and boxing is preparing for a new poster battle.

The 108-pound category has become more exciting.