Ricardo Blandon Replaces Lorenzo Parra For Rafael Espinoza Title Defense

Ricardo Blandon is set to replace Lorenzo Parra as Rafael Espinoza’s challenger for the October 31 WBO featherweight championship bout in Riyadh. WBO president Gustavo Olivieri said Canelo Promotions had advised the organization that the Middle East Professional Boxing Commission would not authorize Parra’s participation. His statement referred to the commission’s rules and policies; it did not identify a medical diagnosis or say that Blandon had already completed every required clearance.