On July 30, 2025, in Yokohama Buntai Arena in Japan, 26-year-old Ricardo “El Niño” Sandoval (27-2, 18 KOs) defeated hometown favorite Kenshiro Teraji (25-2, 16 KOs) via split decision, winning the WBC and WBA flyweight belts in a stunning shock.  Two judges gave the fight scores of 115‑112 and 117‑110, while one gave Teraji a close victory at 114‑113 after Sandoval survived a fifth-round knockdown to win.

With the victory, Sandoval becomes the first American to win the flyweight world title since Brian Viloria in 2012–2013.

Fight Recap: Pressure and Poisoned Jabs

Sandoval had a clear plan going into the fight: keep a safe distance, be disciplined, and press when it was appropriate.  He was rocked by Teraji’s strong right in Round 5, but he recovered fast, restarted exerting relentless pressure, and put on a long barrage of body work that clearly exhausted the champion.

Teraji started well, with smooth movement and clever jab technique, but Sandoval’s unrelenting tempo ultimately sapped his effectiveness.  Teraji’s pace was neutralized in the final rounds by the challenger’s high punch volume and stingy jab.  Not even the last rush could change the result.

Breaking Ground: Sandoval’s Rise to Glory

Sandoval’s ascent to fame has been gradual rather than spectacular.  He waited a long time for a chance to win a world title after defeating Ángel Acosta in July 2024 to capture the vacant WBC Silver flyweight title.  His performance in Yokohama is a career high point and a testament to his unwavering commitment.

Following the final bell, Sandoval proclaimed:

“It feels great.  All the hard work paid off…  Now we’re here, and we’re champion.” 

The win completes a winning run of seven fights and confirms his rise to flyweight world-class status.

Judges’ Cards & Crowd Reaction

Joseph Gwilt (Thailand-based, British): 117‑110 (Sandoval)

Leszek Jankowiak (Poland): 115‑112 (Sandoval)

Pawel Kardyni (Poland): 114‑113 (Teraji) 

Given Teraji’s home-field advantage, the split card, notably the wide 117-110, caused concern.  Several critics and media sources nonetheless characterized the victory as valid, but hotly contested.

Despite the result, Japanese spectators were respectful: they recognized Sandoval’s perseverance in becoming the first American flyweight champion in more than ten years as Teraji returned to his corner with a swollen eye and obvious despair.

What This Means for Boxing

New American Star at 112 lbs

In the United States, flyweight is rarely looked at, but Sandoval’s victory may draw attention to the division’s explosive potential once again.

Teraji’s Future & Rematch Prospects

The 33-year-old Japanese legend could want a rematch right away, much like he did with his 2021 redemption.  A defeat at home sparks conversations about reorganizing or moving forward.

Unification Landscape

Now that Teraji has been overthrown, Sandoval may try to unite with IBF champion Masamichi Yabuki or take on WBO champions and up-and-coming fighters like Jesse Rodriguez in the future.

Final Knockout: Sandoval’s Triumph on Teraji’s Turf

Ricardo Sandoval’s split-decision victory over Kenshiro Teraji in Japan is one of the biggest upsets in modern boxing history.  Recovering from a knockdown and applying constant pressure to one of flyweight’s most technically sound champions showcases not only heart, but championship grit.

He is currently the WBC and WBA flyweight champion, changing the history of the category and proving that hard work and determination can overcome greatness.  Sandoval is no longer the underdog; rather, he is the man to beat as fresh avenues for unity and international recognition become available.