ESPN+ Samake-Ryan & Soto-Caro Headline Separate Fight

This Saturday promises a double dose of thrilling international boxing action, streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ for U.S. fans. Featuring high-stakes matchups from Paris and Mexicali, the card is packed with top-tier talent and championship aspirations.

Event 1: Paris Showdown (12:30 p.m. ET/9:30 a.m. PT)

The action kicks off at the Canopée Westfield Forum des Halles in Paris, where French sensation Bakary Samake faces Australian veteran Wade Ryan for the vacant WBC Silver Junior Middleweight Title. The 12-round main event will test the mettle of both fighters, with Samake looking to defend his undefeated record and Ryan bringing years of gritty experience to the ring.

Bakary Samake (16-0, 8 KOs): A rising star in the junior middleweight division, Samake captured the IBF Youth title in March 2023 and has built a reputation for outclassing tough opponents. This year, he secured dominant wins over former European Union champion Ahmed El Mousaoui and Chile’s Julio Alamos.

Wade Ryan (22-11-1, 8 KOs): A durable southpaw from Australia, Ryan is no stranger to big fights. He has only been stopped once in his career and recently delivered a strong showing in Tokyo, holding local favorite Takeshi Inoue to a 12-round draw. Known for his grit, Ryan even knocked down an unbeaten Tim Tszyu in 2017, though he ultimately lost on points.

Event 2: Mexican Battle (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT)

The action moves to Plaza de Toros Calafia in Mexicali, Mexico, where former world champion Elwin Soto takes on Moisés Caro in a 10-round contest for the WBO Latino Light Flyweight Title. The electric atmosphere of Mexicali will set the stage for Soto’s comeback and Caro’s chance to make his mark on the division.

Elwin Soto: The former WBO light flyweight champion aims to reestablish himself as a dominant force in the division. Known for his explosive style, Soto brings experience and power to the ring as he eyes another run at world title glory.

Moisés Caro: Facing a former champion in his home country, Caro has the opportunity to shock the boxing world and claim the WBO Latino belt.