Eridson Garcia, a 31-year-old Dominican fighter, defeated Japans previously unbeaten Taiga Imanaga via split decision in a 10-round lightweight bout during the Riyadh Seasons Ring V: Night of the Samurai event.

Called up as a late replacement in early December, Garcia won by scores of 96-93, 94-95, and 95-94.

The turning point came in the eighth round when Garcia landed a right hook that knocked Imanaga down. Garcia said: I was completely confident that I had won, crediting his experience and his ability to capitalize when his opponent showed vulnerability.

Garcia emphasized his readiness for opportunities at both super featherweight and lightweight divisions, and expressed gratitude to Matchroom Boxing, promoter Turki Alalshikh, manager Bobby Harrison, and his supporters in the Dominican Republic.