Boxing Match Preview: Xander Zayas (22-0-0, 13 KOs) vs. Abass Baraou (17-1-0, 9 KOs)
The Xander Zayas vs. Abass Baraou unification bout headlines a major Top Rank Boxing card as Puerto Rican star Xander Zayas (22-0-0, 13 KOs), the youngest male world champion at age 23, defends his WBO junior middleweight title against WBA champion Abass Baraou (17-1-0, 9 KOs) in a 12-round showdown for undisputed status at 154 pounds. Zayas, a homecoming hero in San Juan, brings elite speed, combinations, and youth to the ring, while Baraou, the determined German road warrior of Togolese descent, counters with experience, pressure, and a strong chin. This unification could define the 154-pound division’s future, with Zayas favored heavily in his backyard but Baraou representing a legitimate threat if he imposes his physicality.
Venue Location
The fight will take place at Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This 18,500-capacity arena is one of the premier venues in the Caribbean for boxing, known for its passionate crowds and history of hosting major Puerto Rican-led events.
Ring walks are scheduled for 5:30 PM ET / 2:30 PM PT (10:30 PM GMT). Ring walks for the main event (Zayas vs. Baraou) are expected around 10:00–11:00 PM ET / 7:00–8:00 PM PT (3:00–4:00 AM GMT on February 1), broadcast live on DAZN PPV and Top Rank platforms worldwide.
Injury Report
No injuries have been reported for either fighter as of late January 2026. Both completed full training camps without disruptions. Zayas has focused on sharpness after his active 2025 schedule, while Baraou’s durability (never stopped) remains intact despite a road-heavy career.
Xander Zayas:
No reported issues; fully healthy and cleared for the unification.
Abass Baraou:
No injuries noted; entered camp strong after his WBA title promotion.
Fighter Matchups
This junior middleweight unification features contrasting styles: Zayas’ elite speed and boxing against Baraou’s pressure and physicality.
Xander Zayas (23 years old, 5’11”, 72″ reach, orthodox): A fast, precise boxer-puncher with excellent footwork, jab, and combinations. His 59% KO rate comes from volume and accuracy rather than one-punch power, excelling in controlling distance and countering. He ties up effectively in close range to reset. Weaknesses include occasional vulnerability to sustained pressure if backed up.
Abass Baraou (31 years old, 5’11”, orthodox): A determined pressure fighter with a strong chin and body work. His style involves forward aggression, hooks, and wearing opponents down. He has a 53% KO rate and excels in making fights physical. Weaknesses include slower footwork, which can be exploited by quicker boxers like Zayas.
Key Stylistic Clash: Zayas’ movement and counters vs. Baraou’s pressure and inside fighting. Zayas must use angles and tie-ups to avoid Baraou’s body shots; Baraou needs to close distance and force exchanges.
Strengths/Weaknesses: Zayas’ youth, speed, and home-crowd energy give him an edge in pace; Baraou’s experience (road warrior) and durability offer upset potential if he grinds through early rounds.
X-Factor: Home advantage—Zayas thrives in Puerto Rico; Baraou vows to “conquer” the hostile environment.
Recent Form
Zayas has dominated with consistent wins, while Baraou shows resilience in tough fights.
Xander Zayas (Last 5: W-W-W-W-W):
Recent defenses and tune-ups in 2025: Dominant decisions and stoppages, building on his title win.
Form Notes: Undefeated streak with high output, strong defense, and finishing ability. Ranked #5 by The Ring at 154.
Abass Baraou (Last 5: W-W-W-W-L or similar):
Recent title win/promotion: Strong effort vs. Yoenis Tellez; ranked #9 by The Ring.
Form Notes: Solid pressure fighter with durability; 1 loss in career but proven against contenders.
| Fighter | Last 5 Record | KO % (Career) | Avg. Rounds Last 5 | Key Stat |
| Xander Zayas | W-W-W-W-W | 59% | 9–12 | Undefeated home favorite |
| Abass Baraou | W-W-W-W-W | 53% | 8–10 | Road warrior durability |
Fight History
This is the first meeting between Zayas and Baraou, with no prior head-to-head or shared opponents. Zayas has sparred extensively with Baraou in South Florida camps, giving him familiarity, but Baraou embraces the challenge on enemy turf.
FIGHT ODDS
Xander Zayas – 350
Abass Baraou + 275
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, January 30, 2025
