Last November, controversy reigned supreme. Andrew Moloney thought he’d done enough to snatch the WBA super flyweight world title from Joshua Franco. Moloney contended that numerous jabs caused swelling under Franco’s right eye, which forced the fight to be stopped after two rounds. Following a nearly 30-minute video review, the referee’s decision of a headbutt was upheld. Franco retained his title, the title he won from Moloney via decision nearly five months prior. (photos by Mikey Williams)
After all the trash talk and ensuing tension, Franco and Moloney are set to meet in a trilogy showdown Saturday at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. Moloney hopes to right what he feels was an injustice, while Franco is out to prove their first fight was not an aberration.
The special feature directly before Franco-Moloney 3 will showcase the pro debut of middleweight Nico Ali Walsh, grandson of Muhammad Ali, who will take on Jordan Weeks in a four rounder. In the 10-round co-feature, which will open the main telecast, undefeated junior welterweight contender Arnold Barboza Jr. will battle Mexican veteran Antonio Moran.