Hovhannisyan Earns Majority Decision Over Baez in Featherweight Bout

Armenian fighter overcomes apparent left arm issue to secure victory in 10-round fight.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 2:48am

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Azat Hovhannisyan fought through an apparent left arm injury to earn a 10-round majority decision victory over Eduardo Baez in their featherweight bout at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas. Hovhannisyan repeatedly looked at and shook out his left arm in the early rounds but continued to press forward, with his pressure and more eye-catching shots giving him the edge on two of the judges' scorecards.

Why it matters

This victory marks Hovhannisyan's second straight win following a three-fight skid, as he looks to work his way back into title contention in the featherweight division. The fight also showcased Hovhannisyan's toughness and grit in overcoming an apparent injury to secure the decision win.

The details

Hovhannisyan (23-6, 17 KOs) was warned multiple times for rabbit punches and going low, but his pressure and activity, especially in the later rounds, proved to be the difference. Baez (25-8-2, 10 KOs) had success early, landing the cleaner shots, but faded as Hovhannisyan found his rhythm. The Armenian fighter's right hand was the key, as he landed several clean shots that caught the judges' attention.

  • The fight took place on Sunday night at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The players

Azat Hovhannisyan

A 23-6 (17 KOs) featherweight boxer who overcame an apparent left arm injury to earn the majority decision victory.

Eduardo Baez

A 25-8-2 (10 KOs) featherweight boxer who had early success but faded late in the fight.

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What they’re saying

“Even if Baez was landing sporadically, the judges almost always favor the guy who is moving forward and forcing the action. Hovhannisyan's pressure made Baez look like he was fighting to survive rather than fighting to win.”

— Dan Ambrose, Author

What’s next

Hovhannisyan's victory could set him up for a potential title eliminator or high-profile matchup as he looks to work his way back into contention in the featherweight division.

The takeaway

Hovhannisyan's grit and determination to fight through an apparent injury and secure the majority decision victory showcases the toughness and resilience required to succeed at the highest levels of professional boxing.