Rocha and Curiel were slated to meet again following their December 2024 fight, a high-output contest that ended in a majority decision win for Rocha. One judge scored the fight even, while the other two favored Rocha by margins of four and eight points. The result 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 reach 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 on his condition were immediately released, though the decision was described as precautionary.
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 attempt to salvage the main event on short notice.
Raul Curiel remains on the card for now, though 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 limits. Rocha has competed at welterweight throughout his career, but the division continues to test fighters as they age and grow.
This card moved forward quickly once the rematch was agreed. It unraveled just as fast.
