Rocha and Curiel were expected to meet again after their December 2024 fight, a high-output contest that ended in a majority decision victory for Rocha. One judge scored the fight a draw, while the other two favored Rocha by four and eight points. The outcome was debated, and the pace and volume of the fight generated enough interest for a quick rematch to be approved.
This time the fight did not make it to fight week intact.
According to Pugmire, Rocha’s condition worsened during the final stages of the weight cut, prompting medical intervention and removal from the event. No further details about his condition were immediately released, although the decision was described as a precautionary measure.
Golden Boy Promotions is now working to keep the card intact. Promoters are considering several late replacements to face Curiel, including Israel Mercado, as they try to save the main event on short notice.
Raul Curiel remains on the card for now, although no replacement opponent has been finalized. The event is scheduled to stream on DAZN.
The situation again exposes the fragility of events built around strict weight restrictions. Rocha has competed at welterweight throughout his career, but the division continues to test fighters as they age and grow.
This card quickly moved forward once the rematch was agreed upon. It unraveled just as quickly.
