Amanda Serrano Vs. Reina Tellez Breakdown

Pre-Fight

“I’m disappointed the original fight couldn’t move forward, but my priority has always been respect for the sport. Reina Tellez is a tough opponent who’s earned this opportunity, and I am up for the challenge. “Fighting at home in Puerto Rico, defending my world titles, and continuing to push women’s boxing forward under equal rules means everything to me. Saturday, January 3, is about showing the world once again what Puerto Rican fighters are made of,” Serrano stated

“This fight is bigger than me. It’s about representing every young girl who’s ever been told she couldn’t make it in a sport like this. To fight for a world title, against someone like Serrano, is something I’ve worked for every single day. I’m going into that ring with pride, purpose, and a belief that I belong on this stage.

“I’m treating this like the biggest fight of my life, because it is. My team and I are working around the clock to make sure I step into that ring in the best shape I’ve ever been in. “I might be the underdog on paper, but I’ve been preparing for an opportunity like this my whole career. I’m not here to fill a spot, I’m here to win,” Tellez said

The Approach

Serrano’s approach will be her relentless, heavy-handed pressure from her southpaw stance. Following her loss to Katie Taylor in July 2025, where she was criticized for trying to “out-box the boxer,” Serrano is expected to abandon the distance game and return to the high-volume stalking that defined her career. Tactically, she will focus on her jab to close the gap, followed by hooks to the body to “kill the engine” of the younger Tellez. By cutting off the ring and forcing Tellez into the pocket, Serrano intends to use her superior physical strength and championship experience to overwhelm the challenger who has never been past eight rounds.

Tellez possesses the speed that can often trouble aging power-punchers. Her primary tactical objective will be to constantly pivot to keep Serrano from setting her feet. Tellez will likely look to exploit Serrano’s tendency to lead with her head by timing a lead-hand check hook or a straight right counter whenever the champion lunges. To win, Tellez cannot afford to stand in front of Serrano; she must throw combos before clinching or circling away to reset.