The undefeated Diego Pacheco (26-0, 19 KOs) knocked out American Immanuwel Aleem in the eleventh round and immediately issued a direct challenge to former world champion Jaime Munguía. The fight could be scheduled for late 2026 or early 2027.
The 168-pound boxing division has a new contender who doesn't beat around the bush. Diego Pacheco, an undefeated Californian of Mexican descent, knocked out veteran Immanuwel Aleem this Saturday in the eleventh round and, microphone in hand, challenged former world champion Jaime Munguía.
The fight, held in Carson (California), was a test of fire for Pacheco, who needed eleven rounds of technical dominance to overcome a tough opponent. The technical knockout came after a flurry of punches that forced the referee to stop the contest. With a record of 26-0 and 19 knockouts, Pacheco makes it clear that his goal is none other than the big names in the division.
The direct challenge to Munguía
As soon as the victory was secured, Pacheco took the microphone and delivered a message that did not go unnoticed: “I have great respect for Jaime Munguía. He is someone I admired since I was a child; I remember being in Mexico watching him win his first world title and since then I knew that at some point this fight would happen. If he gives me the opportunity, it is definitely the fight I want,” he stated.
His promoter, Eddie Hearn, confirmed that discussions with Munguía's team will intensify to arrange the fight for late 2026 or early 2027. Pacheco's corner strategy involves defeating Mexican opponents to pave the way for a title fight against Saúl ‘Canelo’ Álvarez.
A knockout worth more than a victory
Pacheco not only won: he convinced. From the first round, he imposed his distance and powerful right hand, punishing an Aleem who showed bravery but little response. In the seventh round, a flurry against the ropes nearly ended the contest, but Aleem was saved by the bell. It was in the eleventh when Pacheco accelerated with a lethal combination of hooks and uppercuts that forced the referee to stop the fight.
For boxing fans, this victory serves as a warning: Pacheco is no longer a prospect, he is a reality. His impeccable record and his proficiency in the ring position him as a serious contender for the world title at 168 pounds. The fight against Munguía, if it materialises, would be a high-voltage clash between two quality punchers.
The road to the title
Pacheco, born in Los Angeles in 2001, started boxing at the age of ten and accumulated over 75 amateur fights, winning eight national championships. He made his professional debut in December 2018 in Tijuana, knocking out Luis Carlos González in the first round. Since then, he has been climbing the ranks: he won the WBC USA belt in 2022, the WBO International in 2023, and the WBC Silver in December 2025 by defeating the undefeated Kevin Lele Sadjo.
Now, with a record of 26-0, his name is being strongly considered to face Munguía, who is also seeking a fight to return to the elite. If the bout is finalised, it could be one of the major boxing events in 2027. For Spanish fans, the interest lies in the fact that both fighters have followings in our country and the fight could be broadcast at an accessible time if organised in the United States or Mexico.
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