Boxing Preview: Shokichi Iwata (14-1-0, 11 KOs) vs. Rene Santiago Garcia (13-4-0, 9 KOs)

The upcoming boxing match between Shokichi Iwata and Rene Santiago Garcia on March 13, 2025, is set to be an exciting clash in the light flyweight division.

Fighter Overview

Shokichi Iwata (“The Amazing Boy”)

Record: 14-1-0 (11 KOs)

Height: 5’4″

Weight: 108 lbs

Reach: 64″

Stance: Orthodox

Nationality: Japanese

Rene Santiago Garcia (“Chulo”)

Record: 13-4-0 (9 KOs)

Height: 5’3″

Weight: 108 lbs

Reach: N/A

Stance: Orthodox

Nationality: Puerto Rican

Recent Form

Shokichi Iwata

Iwata is coming off a strong performance, having captured the vacant WBO light flyweight title by stopping Jairo Noriega in the third round in October 2024. Iwata has shown resilience and adaptability throughout his career, with notable victories over Kosei Tanaka and Takuma Inoue during his amateur days. His only professional loss came against Jonathan Gonzalez in 2022, where he lost by unanimous decision in a shot at the WBO light flyweight title.

Rene Santiago Garcia

Santiago Garcia has been in excellent form, winning his last fight against Ricardo Astuvila by unanimous decision in October 2024. Santiago’s aggressive style and ability to finish fights early have earned him a reputation as a dangerous opponent. His only losses came early in his career, and he has since bounced back with a series of impressive victories.

Key Statistics

Strikes Landed per Minute (SLpM): N/A

Striking Defense: N/A

Takedown Defense: N/A

Matchup Breakdown

Offense vs. Defense

Iwata’s experience and technical skills will be crucial in this matchup. His ability to control the pace of the fight and avoid unnecessary exchanges will be key to his success. Iwata’s striking accuracy and defensive skills will be tested against Santiago’s aggressive style and knockout power.

Santiago, on the other hand, will look to capitalize on his power and aggressive approach. His ability to finish fights early makes him a dangerous opponent. However, Santiago’s defensive vulnerabilities could be exploited by Iwata’s experience and technical skills.

Shokichi Iwata                                   – 900

Rene Santiago Garcia                     + 575

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, March 12, 2025