By Emil Fischer
Undefeated Alfonso Gonzales steps in for Roger Narvaez in middleweight title fight
HOUSTON, TX, May 22, 2014 – Hard-hitting middleweight champion (William) Bubba Bush was slated to face Roger Narvaez in his second title defense at Legacy FC 31. That plan changed this week after the challenger got signed up to face Pat Cummins in the UFC. The search for a new opponent did not last long however and Bush is now set to face another dangerous opponent in undefeated prospect Alfonso Gonzales.
Hailing out of Tacoma, Washington, Alfonso Gonzales has been impressive as a pro thus far. Fighting almost exclusively in the Pacific Northwest, Gonzales has amassed six wins and no losses with only one fight going the distance. He held three different championship belts as an amateur and will be gunning for his first as a pro. Stylistically he’s shown the ability to finish both by submission and knockout so he’s well rounded. All that being said, it’s doubtful he’s faced an opponent quite as strong as the one he’s up against.
Speaking of Bubba Bush, he’ll be entering this fight looking to extend his three-fight win streak. The champ has finished three straight opponent and has won 5 out of his last 6 with his only loss coming by way of DQ. In fact, at this point of his career some would say his only ‘legitimate’ loss came way back in 2011 against (now UFC fighter) Andrew Craig, and he was winning the early portion of that fight too. Bush has improved markedly since then and yet Gonzales should answer even more questions concerning his readiness for competition in the UFC.
Look for this bout to serve as a litmus test for both Bush and Gonzales. An impressive performance (read: a finish) but either man should clarify the next step in their respective careers, not to mention the winner gets to walk out of June 13th as the middleweight champion. All in all, expect a great fight ahead in Houston.
Until then, here’s a highlight of Bush’s last title defense via the team at AXS TV.
