Anaheim, California—Oscar Duarte did what no one had done previously: stop the 26-year-old Miguel Madueño in the seventh round. As Oscar De La Hoya pointed out, not even newly crowned WBO lightweight champion Keyshawn Davis was able to stop Madueño last July.

This is a newly reinvigorated Duarte, who, with world-renowned trainer Robert Garcia, has been on a steady ascension towards a world title. He had the fans at the Honda Center elated with his performance. Duarte put on a show from start to finish. His ring walk featured Mexican singers Miguel Cornejo and Juan Freer, who sang the song “Yo Vengo De La Nada.” Inside the ring, he used the first round to feel out his opponent.

Once he felt Madueño’s power, he was confident he could withstand his punches. Duarte was able to dominate the exchanges due to his being quicker and stronger than Madueño. Duarte landed 121 power punches in seven rounds, connecting on 39 percent of his power punches (121 of 310). Madueño had a healthy work rate but could not find the target, landing only 20.7 of his total punches (Compubox).

After the match, Duarte told the media he would like to become world champion, possibly setting up a match with Arnold Barboza Jr. or even avenging his loss to Ryan Garcia. For the latter, it would more than likely happen later in the future, as Garcia has stated he’s unable to make 140 pounds. A match with Barboza would be easier to make as they both share the same promoter in Golden Boy.

Barboza edged out Jack Catterall by a split decision earlier in the day, becoming the mandatory challenger for WBO champion Teofimo Lopez. Duarte would like to face any of the champions in his division and stated he’s ready for them. He could build a resume worthy of a title shot if he continues on this trajectory. He matches up well against WBA  champion Jose Valenzuela, but they share the same trainer, Robert Garcia. Facing a stablemate may not be in the cards.

Another potential option could be the WBC championship, Alberto Puello is set to face Sandor  Martin March 1st at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Duarte appears determined to put in the work needed to become a champion. He stated he would take a few days off to rest and then head back to the gym to train. He wants to be ready for whomever De La Hoya matches him against next.

Regis Prograis was the original opponent but could not compete due to an injury he suffered in camp. Duarte seemed very prepared, and he would have beaten  Prograis had he faced him in the ring. Robert Garcia knows how to get the best out of his fighters and make them better. Duarte will only improve with Robert, and a championship match appears on the horizon.