Jorge Linares

Linares compiled an 89-5 record as an amateur, winning several national junior championships in Venezuela.{{Cite web|url=http://boxrec.com/media/index.php/Jorge_Linares|title = Jorge Linares - BoxRec}} At the age of 17, Linares moved to Japan at the suggestion of his countryman, WBA president Gilberto Mendoza. Linares wanted to turn pro as soon as possible and he would've had to wait until he turned 18 in Venezuela.{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10585332/anthony-crollas-conqueror-jorge-linares-left-venezuela-for-japan-to-become-a-three-weight-world-champion|title=Anthony Crolla's conqueror Jorge Linares left Venezuela for Japan to become a three-weight world champion|work=Sky Sports }}

Linares made his professional boxing debut managed by the Teiken Boxing Gym in December 2002.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/sports/boxing/news/story?id=3151465|title=Venezuelan 'Golden Boy' happy to call Japan home|author=Michael Rosenthal|date=December 13, 2007|publisher=ESPN|access-date=April 2, 2011}} He was trained by Sendai Tanaka there, and Antonio Esparragoza who was trained by Tanaka's master Amílcar Bursa gave Linares the nickname of El Niño de Oro.{{Cite magazine|author=Sendai Tanaka|script-title=ja:アルゼンチン・ボクシング紀行|date=April 10, 2010|magazine=Boxing Magazine|issue=April 2010 issue|publisher=Baseball Magazine Sha Co., Ltd|location=Tokyo, Japan|language=ja|page=77}}

Linares made his debut at the age of 17 at featherweight. The fight took place at the Prefectural Gymnasium in Osaka, Japan on 15 December 2002. He knocked out Kyong-Soo Chung in the first round of their scheduled four round fight. His next fight took place in February 2003, a six-round bout against Chawal Sor Vorapin at the famous Korakuen Hall in Tokyo. The fight aired on NTV G+ in Japan. Vorapin was dropped in round 1 and Linares was down in round 2 as the fight went to the scorecards. Linares won a unanimous decision (59-54 58-54 58-54).{{Cite web|url=http://www.asianboxing.info/videos/jorge-linares-vs-chawal-sor-vorapin|title=Jorge Linares Vs Chawal Sor Vorapin|website=Asian Boxing|access-date=2017-04-07}} In his next five fights, Linares floated between super bantamweight and featherweight and remained undefeated, winning three via stoppages.

On 31 January 2004 Linares, at the age of 19 fought for his first title, against 36 year old veteran and multiple weight world champion Hugo Rafael Soto (55-9-2, 38 KOs) in his home country of Venezuela at the El Poliedro in Caracas. Linares won the vacant WBA Fedelatin super bantamweight title after winning a unanimous decision with scores of 100-90, 100-90 and 99-91. Soto retired after this fight.{{Cite news|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/anthony-crolla-set-toughest-career-test-lightweight-unification-clash-against-jorge-linares-1582601|title=Anthony Crolla set for toughest career test in lightweight unification clash against Jorge Linares|last=Flood|first=George|date=2016-09-24|work=International Business Times UK|access-date=2017-04-07}} In his tenth professional fight in August 2004, he won the vacant WBA Fedelatin featherweight title after defeating Renan Acosta (13–1, 5 KOs) at the Korakuen Hall in Tokyo. The fight went 10 rounds with the scores of 98-95 98-96 97-95 all in favor of Linares.

Following a string of four wins, all via stoppage, Linares challenged 30 year old Jean Javier Sotelo (13–2, 8 KOs) for the vacant WBA Fedecentro featherweight title. The fight took place at the Estadio Luna Park in Buenos Aires on 6 May 2005. Linares was knocked down for the first time in his career in round 2. He beat the count and knocked Sotelo down twice in round 2 forcing a stoppage win.{{Citation|last=alacran1969|title=Jorge "El Niño de Oro" Linares vs. Jean Javier "Evangelista" Sotelo|date=2011-12-07|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOiRwgh3CsM |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/pOiRwgh3CsM |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2017-04-13}}{{cbignore}} Linares spent the next year fighting in Venezuela, Japan and South Korea.

On 21 July 2007, Linares fought on the undercard of Bernard Hopkins vs. Ronald Wright at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Nevada. It was the first time in his career that he would fight in the United States since turning professional. He fought former WBC super bantamweight champion Óscar Larios (59-5-1, 37 KOs) for the vacant WBC interim featherweight title. Linares dominated the action with his jab combinations and power punches which consequently backed up Larios, although he remained competitive. Larios did not try to counter anything thrown his way. In the tenth round, a flurry of power punches from Linares sent Larios to the canvas. Larios beat the count, but referee Vic Drakulich stopped the fight giving Linares the win via technical knockout. At the time stoppage, Linares was ahead on two of the judges scorecards 87-84 and 89-82 whilst the third judge had Larios ahead by one point 86-85.{{Cite news|url=http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=11806&more=1|title=Fight Report: York Hall, London, April 27th: Weaver, Marston And Poetsh Impress In Style - Boxing News|date=2013-04-30|access-date=2017-04-12|language=en-US}}{{Citation|last=Boxing Syko|title=Oscar Larios vs Jorge Linares 21-07-2007|date=2016-09-07|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_tQ70DmKf4|access-date=2017-04-13}}{{cbignore}}{{Dead Youtube links|date=February 2022}}

Linares made the first defense of his world title against former NABF featherweight champion Gamaliel Diaz (22-6-2, 9 KOs) on 15 December 2007 at the Plaza de Toros in Cancun, Mexico. Linares floored Diaz with a counter right hand in round eight, winning the bout via KO. Diaz was also knocked down in round four following a right uppercut. At the time of stoppage, Linares was ahead on two of the judges scorecards 68–64 and 67–65, whilst the third judge had it even at 66–66.{{Citation|last=Rodmaan Cadule|title=Jorge Linares Vs Gamaliel Diaz [Boxeo]|date=2007-12-15|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgoJ48O7qy4|access-date=2017-04-13}}{{cbignore}}{{Dead Youtube links|date=February 2022}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxnews.com.ua/en/news/3870/2007-12-16/Valero-Linares-KO-foes-|title=Valero, Linares KO foes! - World boxing - Boxing news - BOXNEWS.com.ua|website=www.boxnews.com.ua|language=en-gb|access-date=2017-04-13}}

Linares relinquished the title on 13 August 2008, in order to move up to super featherweight. Another reason for vacating the title was that he needing more time to recover from injuries. Óscar Larios was elevated from Interim to full championship status.{{cite web|url=http://www.15rounds.com/boxing/News/2008/08/lonares-081308.php|title=Linares vacates setting up twin bill in Japan|publisher=15round.com|access-date=2008-08-14|archive-date=9 May 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090509030415/http://www.15rounds.com/boxing/News/2008/08/lonares-081308.php|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-vacates-oscar-larios-new-wbc-champ--15387|title=Jorge Linares Vacates, Oscar Larios New WBC Champ - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=13 August 2008 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-04-13}}

Eleven months after his last fight, Linares challenged 27 year old Whyber Garcia (20–5, 14 KOs) for the vacant WBA super featherweight title. The fight took place on 28 November 2008 at the Centro de Convenciones Atlapa in Panama City. Linares won the fight and claimed the vacant WBA title via fifth-round technical knockout.{{Cite web|date=2017-04-13|title=Jorge Linares vs Whyber Garcia {{!}} Boxing Video|url=http://boxingvideo.org/videogallery/jorge-linares-vs-whyber-garcia/|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170413235321/http://boxingvideo.org/videogallery/jorge-linares-vs-whyber-garcia/|archive-date=2017-04-13|access-date=2021-09-20}}

On 27 June 2009 Linares made his first defense against former Mexico lightweight champion Josafat Perez (12–1, 7 KOs), who was moving down in weight, in Mexico. Linares retained the title following an over right to the head of Perez which floored him. Perez beat the count and carried on with unsteady legs. The fight went on. Following some fast combinations from Linares, Perez stumbled backwards and referee Luis Pabon intervened to stop the fight. The time of stoppage was 1 minute 40 seconds into round 8.{{Cite web|date=2017-07-26|title=Jorge Linares vs Josafat Perez - Video Dailymotion|url=https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x4sxmqk|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170726170540/https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x4sxmqk|archivedate=26 July 2017|access-date=2021-09-20}}

Linares signed a contract with the Golden Boy Promotions in September 2009 whilst still remaining Teiken Promotions.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/sports/boxing/news/story?id=4487316|title=Linares signs with Golden Boy|date=September 19, 2009|publisher=ESPN|author=Dan Rafael|access-date=April 2, 2011}}

On 10 October 2009 Linares traveled back to Japan to make a second defense at the Yoyogi #2 Gymnasium in Tokyo against unbeaten 24 year old Mexican boxer Juan Carlos Salgado (20-0-1, 14 KOs). Linares lost his WBA super featherweight title and his unbeaten streak after being knocked out in round one. Salgado came forward aggressively at the opening bell and knocked Linares down with a powerful left hook. Linares got back up, only to be attacked straight away with a barrage of left and right jabs to the head and body flooring him again, prompting the stoppage.{{Cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2009/10/10/1079117/upset-of-the-year-linares-shocked|title=Upset of the Year: Jorge Linares shocked in a minute|date=2009-10-10|website=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2017-04-13}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xas9j2_jorge-linares-vs-juan-carlos-salgad_sport|title=Jorge Linares vs Juan Carlos Salgado (K.o au 1 Rd) - vidéo Dailymotion|date=2009-10-12|website=Dailymotion|language=en-US|access-date=2017-04-13}} The defeat was named Ring Magazine's 2009 Upset of the Year.{{Cite web|url=http://www.asianboxing.info/jorge-linares-v-juan-carlos-salgado.html|title=Jorge Linares v Juan Carlos Salgado|website=Asian Boxing|access-date=2017-04-13}}

Linares took five months out before returning to Venezuela defeating 38 year old former interim WBC super featherweight champion Francisco Lorenzo in a scheduled 10 round bout via majority decision.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-francisco-lorenzo-deal-reached-march--25482|title=Jorge Linares-Francisco Lorenzo Deal Reached For March - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=19 February 2010 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-04-13}} The judges scored the fight 97-93, 97-94 and 95-95.{{Cite news|url=http://www.ringtv.com/123997-linares-looks-to-rebuild-damaged-reputation/|title=Linares looks to rebuild damaged reputation - The Ring|date=2010-07-29|work=The Ring|access-date=2017-04-13|language=en-US}}

In his second professional fight in the United States on 31 July 2010, Linares fought on the Juan Manuel Marquez-Juan Diaz II pay-per-view undercard at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas and comfortably defeated Mexican-American boxer, five time world title challenger Rocky Juarez (28-6-1, 20 KOs) by unanimous decision. Linares scored a knockdown in round five. Judge Al Lefkowitz scored the fight 97-92, Dave Moretti and Richard Ocasio both scored the fight 99-90 in favor of Linares. Linares claimed the interim WBA Fedelatin lightweight title.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/espn/wire?section=boxing&id=5427302|title=Jorge Linares outpoints Rocky Juarez|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-04-13}}

Linares defeated Mexico's Adrian Verdugo by a technical knockout in the seventh round of a ten-round lightweight bout in Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico, on 28 May 2011.{{Cite web|url=http://msn.foxsports.com/boxing/story/Saturday-roundup-Jorge-Linares-impresses-not-Omar-Chavez-052811|title=Linares impresses, not Chavez|author=The Boxing Tribune|date=May 29, 2011|work=Fox Sports|access-date=May 29, 2011}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/linares-wins-in-mazatlan-85595|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110531054530/http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/linares-wins-in-mazatlan-85595|url-status=dead|archive-date=31 May 2011|title=Linares wins in Mazatlan|author=Gabriel F. Cordero|date=May 28, 2011|publisher=fightnews.com|access-date=May 29, 2011}} After that fight, Linares has trained with Freddie Roach at Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood,{{Cite web|url=http://www.goldenboypromotions.com/news/bernard-the-executioner-hopkins-el-monarca-m-s-veterano-en-la-historia-del-boxeo-enfrentar-al-ex-cam/|title=Bernard 'The Executioner' Hopkins el monarca más veterano en la historia del boxeo, enfrentará al ex campeón mundial Chad 'Bad' Dawson el 15 de octubre en "Aunque usted no lo crea: Hopkins vs. Dawson"|date=August 10, 2011|publisher=Golden Boy Promotions|language=es|access-date=August 26, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110929073823/http://www.goldenboypromotions.com/news/bernard-the-executioner-hopkins-el-monarca-m-s-veterano-en-la-historia-del-boxeo-enfrentar-al-ex-cam/|archive-date=September 29, 2011}}{{Cite web|date=2012-01-03|title=Manila Standard Today -- -- 2011/september/21|url=http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideSports.htm?f=2011/september/21/sports1.isx&d=2011/september/21|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120103214157/http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideSports.htm?f=2011/september/21/sports1.isx&d=2011/september/21|archive-date=2012-01-03|access-date=2021-09-20}} along with the U.S. Olympic boxing team in Colorado Springs, Colorado,{{Cite web|url=http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/linares-with-usa-olympic-team-94474|title=Linares with USA Olympic Team|date=September 5, 2011|publisher=Fightnews.com|access-date=September 22, 2011|archive-date=27 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120927174440/http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/linares-with-usa-olympic-team-94474|url-status=dead}} and served as Manny Pacquiao’s sparring partner in Baguio in the Philippines.{{cite news|date=September 20, 2011|title=Pacquiao begins tough grind|newspaper=Manila Standard Today|url=http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideSports.htm?f=2011/september/21/sports1.isx&d=2011/september/21|access-date=September 22, 2011|archive-date=3 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120103214157/http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideSports.htm?f=2011/september/21/sports1.isx&d=2011/september/21|url-status=dead}}

Linares fought for the vacant WBC lightweight title against Antonio DeMarco at the Staples Center on 15 October 2011. He outlanded DeMarco 216 to 97 in overall punches landed, but lost by TKO after suffering a major cut on his nose eventually allowing DeMarco to begin pounding on it, forcing the referee to stop the fight in the eleventh round.{{Cite web|url=http://ringtv.craveonline.com/blog/169672-demarco-snatches-victory-from-defeat-by-stopping-linares|title=DeMarco snatches victory from defeat by stopping Linares|author=Michael Rosenthal|date=October 16, 2011|publisher=The Ring|access-date=October 18, 2011|archive-date=18 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111018200455/http://ringtv.craveonline.com/blog/169672-demarco-snatches-victory-from-defeat-by-stopping-linares|url-status=dead}} In addition to his own wish, Golden Boy Promotions{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&opt=printable&id=45138|title=Golden Boy, Roach Push For DeMarco-Linares Rematch|author=Robert Morales|date=October 20, 2011|publisher=BoxingScene.com|access-date=October 24, 2011}} and Teiken Promotions{{Cite news|title=リナレス、逆転負けで3階級制覇失敗…WBC世界ライト級戦|url=http://hochi.yomiuri.co.jp/sports/box/news/20111016-OHT1T00259.htm|publisher=Sports Hochi|date=October 16, 2011|access-date=October 18, 2011|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120709051317/http://hochi.yomiuri.co.jp/sports/box/news/20111016-OHT1T00259.htm|archive-date=July 9, 2012}} appealed to the WBC for a rematch.

A rematch with DeMarco had been scheduled ahead of time to take place at the Home Depot Center on 7 July.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/7720516/antonio-demarco-jorge-linares-rematch-one-step-being-set|title=Antonio DeMarco lines up July fight|author=Dan Rafael|date=March 21, 2012|publisher=ESPN|access-date=March 22, 2012}} However, Linares lost to Sergio Thompson in a WBC Lightweight title eliminator via a second round stoppage in Cancun, Mexico on 31 March 2012.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&opt=printable&id=51277|title=Shocker: Sergio Thompson Stops Jorge Linares in Two|author=Boxing Clever|date=March 31, 2012|publisher=BoxingScene.com|access-date=April 1, 2012}}

Linares faced Jorge Francisco Contreras on 10 November 2013, sensationally knocking out Contreras in the first round.{{Cite web|url=http://boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=157610&cat=boxer | title=BoxRec: Login }}

Following four consecutive wins, Linares was lined up to fight former Japanese lightweight champion Nihito Arakawa (24-3-1, 16 KOs) in a WBC lightweight title eliminator. The fight took place on the undercard of Canelo Álvarez vs. Alfredo Angulo at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on 8 March 2014. In the early rounds, Linares used his head and foot movement along with his superior boxing skills. The fight was full of back and forth action throughout, with an accidental clash of heads which opened up a cut to Linares' left eye. The fight went the 10 round distance as judges Tim Cheatham and Bill Lerch scored the fight a shutout 100-90 in favour of Linares. Judge Richard Houck scored the bout 98-92 for Linares.{{Cite news|url=http://thaboxingvoice.com/jorge-linares-earns-a-title-shot-with-unanimous-decision-win-over-arakawa/23397/?var=no|title=Jorge Linares Earns a Title Shot with Unanimous Decision Win Over Arakawa|last=Gonzalez|first=Danny|date=2014-03-09|work=Tha Boxing Voice|access-date=2017-04-24|language=en-US}}

Linares fought on the Shawn Porter vs. Kell Brook undercard at the StubHub Center in Carson, California in a stay busy fight on 16 August against journeyman Ira Terry (26–11, 16 KOs).{{Cite news|url=https://www.ringtv.com/351615-jorge-linares-says-victory-is-a-must-against-ira-terry/|title=Jorge Linares says victory is a must against Ira Terry - The Ring|date=2014-08-11|work=The Ring|access-date=2017-04-24|language=en-US}} Linares won via a 2nd-round knockout. The end came when Linares hit Terry with a left hook, which staggered him, followed by a right hand to the cheekbone. Without counting, the referee waived the fight off.{{Citation|last=Nori H|title=jorge linares vs ira terry|date=2014-08-18|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fp9CgKVEw9s |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/Fp9CgKVEw9s |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2017-04-24}}{{cbignore}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2014/8/16/6024897/jorge-linares-stops-ira-terry-in-two-rounds-moves-on-to-possible|title=Linares stops Terry in two, title shot next?|date=2014-08-16|website=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2017-04-24}}

On 10 November 2014 the WBC ordered Linares to fight their Silver lightweight champion and contender Javier Prieto (24-7-2, 18 KOs) for the vacant WBC lightweight title. The winner would then need to fight Omar Figueroa Jr., who was granted Interim status and named 'Champion in recess' after suffering an injury in his last fight.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/wbc-orders-linares-vs-prieto-vacant-135-lb-title-fight--84107|title=WBC Orders Linares vs. Prieto Vacant 135 Lb. Title Fight - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=10 November 2014 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-04-24}} The bout was scheduled to take on Tuesday, 30 December 2014 in Tokyo at the Metropolitan Gym.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2014/12/jorge-linares-vs-javier-prieto-on-december-30th-in-tokyo-japan/|title=Jorge Linares vs. Javier Prieto on December 30th in Tokyo, Japan » Boxing News|date=2014-12-29|work=Boxing News 24|access-date=2017-04-24|language=en-US|archive-date=25 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170425032312/http://www.boxingnews24.com/2014/12/jorge-linares-vs-javier-prieto-on-december-30th-in-tokyo-japan/|url-status=dead}} Linares became the youngest Venezuelan to win a world title in three different weight divisions at the age of 29 and only the second from Venezuela after Leo Gamez, who was a four-division world champion, when he knocked Prieto out in four rounds to claim the WBC title in his second attempt. The end came when Linares connected with an overhand right to the side of Prieto's head, knocking him down and out.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/photos-jorge-linares-blasts-prieto-wbc-gold--85832|title=Photos: Jorge Linares Blasts Prieto For WBC Gold - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=30 December 2014 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-04-24}}

{{Main|Jorge Linares vs. Kevin Mitchell}}

File:Jorge Linares - O2 Arena (2015-05-30).jpg, 2015]]

British lightweight contender Kevin Mitchell (39–2, 29 KOs) attempted to win a world title in his third attempt when he challenged Linares for his WBC title. The fight took place on 3 May 2015 at the O2 Arena in London live on Sky Box Office PPV. The fight was officially announced on 19 March by Eddie Hearn. He said, "This is a huge night for British boxing, and today's announcement is just the beginning. I'm delighted to deliver shots for Kevin and Lee in the U.K. and they have every chance of becoming world champions on May 30." Other bouts on the card included Kell Brook's IBF welterweight title defence against Frankie Gavin and Lee Selby challenging for his first world title against IBF featherweight champion Evgeny Gradovich. It was the first time Linares fought in the UK.{{Cite news|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/boxing/jorge-linares-vs-kevin-mitchell-mitchell-so-confident-a-third-tilt-at-world-title-will-deliver-10285961.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220614/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/boxing/jorge-linares-vs-kevin-mitchell-mitchell-so-confident-a-third-tilt-at-world-title-will-deliver-10285961.html |archive-date=14 June 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Jorge Linares vs Kevin Mitchell: Mitchell so confident a third tilt at|date=2015-05-29|work=The Independent|access-date=2017-04-28|language=en-GB}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/12514973/jorge-linares-defend-title-challenger-kevin-mitchell-turf|title=Linares to defend title on Brit Mitchell's turf|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-04-28}}

Linares was dropped in round five but went on to retain his world title in round 10 via technical knockout. Mitchell was badly cut above the left eye which closed up. Mitchell was dropped in the tenth before the referee stopped the bout. The cut was due to a clash of heads in round four, which also opened a cut on the side of Linares' head. At the time of stoppage, Mitchell was ahead on two of the judges scorecards at 82–88 and 84–86. The third judge had it even at 85–85.{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12040/9870522/kevin-mitchell-defeated-by-lightweight-wbc-champion-jorge-linares|title=Kevin Mitchell defeated by lightweight WBC champion Jorge Linares|date=May 31, 2015|website=Sky Sports|access-date=April 28, 2017}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/32948199|title=Lee Selby wins world title but Kevin Mitchell misses out|date=2015-05-30|work=BBC Sport|access-date=2017-04-28|language=en-GB}}

Linares traveled back to his home country Venezuela for only the fourth time in his 12-year professional career and first time since 2010, to make a voluntary defence against 27 year old Mexican contender Ivan Cano (23-6-2, 15 KOs) at the El Poliedro in Caracas on October 10, 2015. It was also the first time Linares had a world title fight in Venezuela. Linares knocked Cano out in round four to retain his WBC title. Cano was also down in round three of this one sided fight.{{Cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2015/10/11/9496163/linares-vs-cano-results-jorge-linares-stops-ivan-cano-in-four-retains|title=Linares stops Cano in four, retains WBC belt|date=2015-10-11|website=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2017-04-28}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-batters-ivan-cano-tko-four--96795|title=Jorge Linares Batters Ivan Cano For TKO in Four - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=10 October 2015 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-04-28}}

Linares' next fight was scheduled to be against unbeaten mandatory Dejan Zlatičanin (21–0, 14 KO). Terms where agreed on January 8, 2016, for a fight to take place. This was also the day of the purse bids.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/14529433/jorge-linares-dejan-zlaticanin-deal-done-lightweight-title-bout|title=Linares-Zlaticanin deal done for lightweight title bout|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-04-28}} A date in April was discussed for the fight. In February, Golden Boy Promotions revealed that Linares would have to withdraw from the fight due to a fracture in his right hand. There was talk that WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman would name Linares as Champion in recess and have Zlatičanin fight next available challenger, 39 year old Italian boxer Emiliano Marsili (32-0-1, 14 KOs), where Linares would have the option to the fight the winner upon his return.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/14763298/jorge-linares-breaks-hand-training-title-defense-vs-dejan-zlaticanin-called-off|title=Linares breaks hand in training; title defense off|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-04-28}} Linares was later stripped of the title, but made aware he had the option to fight for the belt when his hand injury had healed.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/14830556/jorge-linares-stripped-lightweight-title-make-defense|title=Linares stripped of lightweight belt due to injury|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-04-28}}

{{Main|Anthony Crolla vs. Jorge Linares|Jorge Linares vs. Anthony Crolla II}}

On 15 June 2016 it was announced on Sky Sports that a deal had been made for Linares to challenge WBA lightweight champion Anthony Crolla (31-4-3, 13 KOs) on 24 September at the Manchester Arena in Manchester.{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10313544/anthony-crolla-to-take-on-jorge-linares-on-september-24|title=Crolla vs. Linarez set for September 24|date=June 15, 2016|website=Sky Sports|access-date=June 16, 2016}} This was the second time Linares fought in the UK and the first time in Manchester. Linares won the WBA lightweight title and claimed the vacant The Ring Magazine and WBC Diamond title after winning the bout via unanimous decision. Two judges scored it close at 115-114 and 115-113. The third judge had it more wide at 117-111, all in favour of Linares. Linares' unique style, hand speed and power punches seemed to conquer Crolla's tactics of pressure fighting. Immediately after the fight, Linares offered Crolla a chance of a rematch, "I want to tell all the people thank you very much. We gave Manchester a beautiful fight and we can do it again."{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/37464974|title=Anthony Crolla loses his WBA lightweight title to Jorge Linares|date=2016-09-24|work=BBC Sport|access-date=2017-04-28|language=en-GB}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10592487/anthony-crolla-is-beaten-by-jorge-linares-on-a-unanimous-decision|title=Anthony Crolla is beaten by Jorge Linares on a unanimous decision|date=September 24, 2016|website=Sky Sports|access-date=September 5, 2016}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10592546/jorge-linares-says-anthony-crolla-deserves-a-rematch-and-is-happy-to-return-to-manchester|title=Jorge Linares says Anthony Crolla deserves a rematch and is happy to return to Manchester|date=September 25, 2016|website=Sky Sports|access-date=September 26, 2016}}

On 6 October 2016 WBC ordered negotiations to begin between Linares and WBC titleholder Zlatičanin, which no deadlines in place. A doctors report revealed that Linares had hurt his right hand during the Crolla fight and wouldn't be returning to the ring in the near future. Due to that reason, the WBC allowed Zlatičanin to make a voluntary defence.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-vs-dejan-zlaticanin-negotiations-ordered-by-wbc--109496|title=Jorge Linares vs. Dejan Zlaticanin Negotiations Ordered By WBC - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=6 October 2016 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-04-28}}

Reports in early December suggested a rematch could possibly take place in Manchester on 25 March 2017. The winner of the rematch would then be ordered to fight the winner of the Dejan Zlatičanin vs. Mikey Garcia, due to take place January, which was won by Garcia, in a unification fight.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/jorge-linares-vs-anthony-crolla-rematch-looks-set-to-land-on-march-25-in-manchester/|title=Jorge Linares vs Anthony Crolla rematch looks set to land on March 25 in Manchester|date=December 16, 2016|access-date=December 21, 2016}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-anthony-crolla-rematch-eyed-march-25--111734|title=Jorge Linares-Anthony Crolla Rematch Eyed For March 25|date=December 13, 2016|access-date=December 21, 2016}} All three titles would be at stake in the rematch, with Eddie Hearn due to make an announcement in 2017.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-vs-anthony-crolla-rematch-march-25-manchester--112123|title=Jorge Linares vs. Anthony Crolla II in Play For 3/25 In Manchester|date=December 27, 2016|website=Boxing Scene|access-date=December 27, 2016}} An official announcement was made on 4 January 2017 for the fight take place at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, a city which Linares said was open to returning to.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-vs-anthony-crolla-ii-set-march-25-manchester--112348|title=Jorge Linares vs. Anthony Crolla II Set, March 25 In Manchester|date=January 4, 2017|website=Boxing Scene|access-date=January 4, 2017}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/18405100/lightweight-world-titleholder-jorge-linares-fight-rematch-anthony-crolla|title=Jorge Linares to defend lightweight title against Anthony Crolla|date=January 4, 2017|website=ESPN|access-date=January 4, 2017}} The WBA, WBC Diamond and The Ring magazine world lightweight titles would be at stake. The fight was televised live on Sky Sports in the UK and on 24 January, Showtime announced they would cover the fight in the United States.{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/38509652|title=Anthony Crolla vs Jorge Linares WBA rematch agreed for March in Manchester|date=January 4, 2017|website=BBC Boxing|access-date=January 4, 2017}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.ringtv.com/481589-showtime-air-linares-crolla-rematch-march-25/|title=Showtime to air Linares-Crolla rematch March 25 - The Ring|date=2017-01-24|access-date=2017-01-24|language=en-US|newspaper=The Ring}} Both fighters weighed in at 134.4 pounds.{{Cite news|url=http://www.ringtv.com/490586-weigh-alert-linares-crolla-134-4-pounds/|title=Weigh-in alert: Linares and Crolla both 134.4 pounds - The Ring|date=2017-03-24|work=The Ring|access-date=2017-03-24|language=en-US}}

On fight night, in front of 13,000 fans, Linares dropped Crolla in the seventh round with a left uppercut, and went the distance to win by wider margins (118–109 on all three scorecards) than the first fight. Crolla started off well hitting to body, but Linares quickly capitalized and started connected well to the body and landing combinations of uppercuts. Linares put in a more solid and dominant performance than their first encounter. At the end of round 11, Crolla's trainer Joe Gallagher came into the ring and walked towards referee Howard John Foster, possibly to stop the fight. After Crolla pleaded with him, Gallagher allowed him to go the distance. With the win, Linares retained the WBA, The Ring and WBC Diamond lightweight titles.{{Cite news|url=http://www.ringtv.com/490652-jorge-linares-outpoints-game-anthony-crolla/|title=Jorge Linares outpoints game Anthony Crolla again - The Ring|date=2017-03-25|work=The Ring|access-date=2017-03-26|language=en-US}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-drops-dominates-anthony-crolla-results--114962|title=Jorge Linares Drops, Dominates Anthony Crolla To Repeat - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=25 March 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-03-26}}

In the post-fight interview, he thanked his promoter Oscar De Le Hoya for making the trip and watching him ringside and said his next move would be a big pay day in Las Vegas against WBC lightweight champion Mikey Garcia. Crolla apologized to the live attendance, admitted he lost to the better man and said he would be back to rebuild, "Manchester, I am so sorry I couldn't do it for you. Your support means so much to me. He caught me but before that I thought I could get to him. I got beaten by the better man - no excuses. I am 30 years old, I am going to rest, but I believe I can go again."{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/19002761/jorge-linares-beats-anthony-crolla-points-retain-world-lightweight-title|title=Brave Crolla outclassed by Linares|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-03-26}} Both fighters embraced at the final bell and showed respect. Crolla meditated around moving up to super lightweight. This was the first time Crolla had lost consecutive fights and losing to the same opponent twice after his losses to Gary Sykes in 2009 and 2012.{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/39398550|title=Anthony Crolla: Jorge Linares defeat could prompt jump to Ricky Burns' division|date=2017-03-26|work=BBC Sport|access-date=2017-03-26|language=en-GB}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/39395519|title=Anthony Crolla v Jorge Linares: Manchester fighter suffers defeat in rematch|date=2017-03-26|work=BBC Sport|access-date=2017-03-26|language=en-GB}}

{{Main|Jorge Linares vs. Luke Campbell}}

Golden Boy Promotions matchmaker, Robert Diaz, announced that Linares would next fight on 23 September 2017 and ruled out WBC Silver titlist Luke Campbell as his opponent. The plan being to have Campbell to fight on the undercard. If both fighters win their respected bouts, they would meet in the future.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-return-eyed-september-23-campbell-not-next--118244|title=Jorge Linares Return Eyed For September 23, Campbell Not Next - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=6 July 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-07-07}} Linares reportedly moved to London with his wife and kids and was said to start his training camp with trainer Ismael Salas.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-train-with-ismael-salas-london-next-bout--118138|title=Jorge Linares To Train With Ismael Salas in London For Next Bout - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=3 July 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-07-23}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/exclusive-jorge-linares-moved-london/|title=EXCLUSIVE Why Jorge Linares has moved to London - Boxing News|date=2017-07-18|work=Boxing News|access-date=2017-07-23|language=en-US}} On 21 July 2017 the WBA ordered Linares to make a mandatory defence against Luke Campbell (17–1, 14 KOs). As per WBA rules, a titleholder must fight a mandatory within 9 months, this time would expire on 23 July, having won the title from Crolla in September 2016. Campbell became the mandatory challenger when he stopped former interim world champion Darleys Pérez in April 2017. Both sides were given 30 days to come to an agreement for the fight.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-vs-luke-campbell-ordered-by-wba--118732|title=Jorge Linares vs. Luke Campbell Ordered By The WBA - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=21 July 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-07-23}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/40690964|title=Jorge Linares: WBA sets Luke Campbell fight agreement deadline|date=2017-07-22|work=BBC Sport|access-date=2017-07-23|language=en-GB}} On 27 July a deal was reached for Linares and Campbell to fight at The Forum in Inglewood, California, on 23 September 2017. The bout will be shown live on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom and on HBO: Boxing After Dark in the United States. In an interview, Linares said, “I am excited to make my return to the US and to headline a HBO show for the first time. I know Campbell is a tough [...] I am confident that I will emerge victorious on September 23rd.” This fight would mark the second time Campbell fights professionally in California.{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10964143/jorge-linares-will-defend-his-lightweight-world-title-against-luke-campbell-in-september|title=Jorge Linares will defend his lightweight world title against Luke Campbell in September|work=Sky Sports|access-date=2017-07-29|language=en}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-vs-luke-campbell-finalized-september-23-hbo--118903|title=Jorge Linares vs. Luke Campbell Finalized - September 23, HBO - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=27 July 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-07-29}} Linares wishes to continue being on the main event HBO boxing card and continue with big fights.{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/jorge-linares-i-want-fight-mikey-garcia-and-vasyl-lomachenko|title=Jorge Linares Wants To Fight Mikey Garcia, Vasyl Lomachenko {{!}} Fightful Boxing|website=www.fightful.com|language=en|access-date=2017-09-22|archive-date=23 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170923050849/https://www.fightful.com/jorge-linares-i-want-fight-mikey-garcia-and-vasyl-lomachenko|url-status=dead}}

In front of 4,125, Linares won his 12th straight fight, retaining his WBA world title after 12 rounds against Campbell. One judge scored the fight 115-113 for Campbell, the remaining two had it 115-112 and 114-113 in favour of Linares, giving him the split decision win. ESPN.com also scored the fight 115-112 for Linares. Linares dropped Campbell with a straight right hand to the head in round 2. Between rounds 5 to 9, Campbell took control of the fight. Linares later told HBO that he wanted to reduce his amount of offense so that he wouldn't get hurt. Once the championship rounds started, Linares regained control of the fight. Had Campbell not been dropped early in the fight, the verdict would have been a split decision draw. Due to Linares taking his foot off the gas, it prevented him from winning the fight with wider margins.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-drops-luke-campbell-wins-split-decision-results--120780|title=Jorge Linares Drops Luke Campbell, Wins Split Decision - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=24 September 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-24}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/41377076|title=Luke Campbell: Jorge Linares wins WBA lightweight title fight|date=2017-09-24|work=BBC Sport|access-date=2017-09-24|language=en-GB}}

Campbell believed he won the fight, speaking to Max Kellerman he said, “I thought I won the fight. He’s a great champion, but I thought I out-classed him. I didn't think he was landing any shots whatsoever, and I was catching him with all the clean shots.” Linares praised Campbell for his efforts, “He was a tough opponent. Many people said he was very easy, but it’s not for no reason he’s an Olympic champion. I fought very well all the way to the 12th round. And I think in the fifth round, I started to box him a little bit because I didn't wanna get hurt.” Linares looked for the knockout in the final two rounds, but realized he would have to settle for a points decision. When asked who he would like to fight next, Linares said, "Mikey Garcia at 135. If we need to go to 140, we'll go to 140." CompuBox stats showed Linares landed 140 of 414 thrown (34%) , while Campbell was credited to landing 141 of his 524 thrown (27%).{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/20798123/jorge-linares-defeats-luke-campbell-split-decision-retains-lightweight-title|title=Linares edges Campbell to keep lightweight title|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-09-24}} The fight drew an average of 687,000 viewers and peaked at 726,000 viewers on HBO.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/canelo-ggg-replay-peaks-840k-viewers-averages-726k-on-hbo--120855|title=Canelo-GGG Replay Peaks at 840K Viewers, Averages 726K on HBO - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=26 September 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-26}}

On 5 October the WBC ordered a fight between Mikey Garcia (37–0, 30 KOs) and Linares, as Linares holds the WBC Diamond title, making him the mandatory.{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11067756/jorge-linares-and-mikey-garcia-ordered-to-fight-by-world-boxing-council|title=Jorge Linares and Mikey Garcia ordered to fight by World Boxing Council|work=Sky Sports|access-date=2017-10-06|language=en}} Garcia commented on Twitter that a potential Cotto fight couldn't happen as Golden Boy Promotions required him signing an exclusive long-term contract with them in order to make the fight. Garcia also mentioned that the fight with Linares wouldn't happen before the end of the year as Linares was unavailable on December.{{cite tweet|number=917411451337285633|user=mikeygarcia|title=so fight only came by signing to gb. not bad but im doing better on my own. |date=9 October 2017}} Eric Gomez, president of Golden Boy sent out a message to Garcia stating if he wanted the fight with Linares, it could be made, without any add-ons to the contract. Garcia later replied, "No need to put it out [in] public. You also have my number, I'll call you later bro."{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/golden-boy-prez-mikey-garcia-fight-linares-no-extra-options--121914|title=Golden Boy Prez To Mikey Garcia: Fight Linares - No Extra Options! - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=29 October 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-10-29}} Gomez later announced that Garcia had rejected their offer for the fight with Linares, despite Golden Boy meeting his terms.{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/21342625/mikey-garcia-rejected-unification-fight-jorge-linares-according-golden-boy-promotions-president|title = Golden Boy prez: Garcia declined Linares fight|date = 8 November 2017}} Garcia said he had received a more lucrative offer. He said, "I have more options, in fact [...] the guaranteed purse is better [...] just as Golden Boy is looking to do what's best for their company, I am also looking to do what's best for me."{{Cite web | url=http://www.boxingscene.com/mikey-garcia-rejects-golden-boy-linares-offer-explains-why--122247 | title=Mikey Garcia Rejects Golden Boy's Linares Offer, Explains Why| date=8 November 2017}} Gomez stated that Eddie Hearn had offered good money to get Linares back in the UK for a rematch with Luke Campbell.{{Cite news|url=https://www.ringtv.com/521989-jorge-linares-wont-fight-mikey-garcia-next-rematch-luke-campbell-u-k/|title=Jorge Linares won't fight Mikey Garcia next, but could rematch Luke Campbell in U.K. - The Ring|date=2017-11-10|work=The Ring|access-date=2017-11-11|language=en-US}}

On 27 November Golden Boy Promotions announced a double-header which would kick off 2018, with Linares headlining the card, defending his WBA and The Ring Magazine titles against Filipino boxer Mercito "No Mercy" Gesta (31-1-2, 17 KOs). The fight would take place at The Forum in Inglewood in January 2018. The co-main event would see Lucas Matthysse vs. Tewa Kiram for the WBA 'Regular' title. It was reported the card would air live on HBO: Boxing After Dark.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/matthysse-vs-kiram-linares-vs-gesta-hbo-double-january-27--122860|title=Matthysse vs. Kiram, Linares vs. Gesta - HBO Double, January 27 - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=27 November 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-11-28}} In front of 6,143 at the Forum, Linares outclassed Gesta in handing him a defeat by a 12-round unanimous decision and also retained his world titles. The official judges scores were 118-110, 117-110 and 118-110. Gesta, although out worked still gave a good effort and remained in the fight. He started to let his hands go more in the championship rounds when Linares appeared to slow down. Throughout the fight, Linares was able to counter Gesta and land 4 and 5 punch combinations. After the fight, Linares said, "I didn't really feel his power. But I hurt my hand in the fourth or fifth round." In round 8, Linares suffered a cut early over his right eye and bled until the round ended. His corner were able to control the cut and it did not bother him for the remainder of the fight. CompuBox showed that Linares landed 171 out of 585 punches thrown (29%) and Gesta landed 120 of his 515 punches thrown (23%).{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-decisions-game-mercito-gesta-results--124705|title=Jorge Linares Decisions a Game Mercito Gesta, Retains Title|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-28|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11226019/jorge-linares-too-classy-for-mercito-gesta-in-los-angeles|title=Jorge Linares too classy for Mercito Gesta in Los Angeles|work=Sky Sports|access-date=2018-01-28|language=en}} In the post-fight presser, Linares named Mikey Garcia and Vasiliy Lomachenko as potential opponents, "You know what's nice? That people mention my name. That's fine that they mention my name. Let them get in the ring with me."{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/linares-people-mention-my-name-let-them-get-with-me--124712|title=Linares: People Mention My Name - Let Them Get in With Me!|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-28|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/22238945/lucas-matthysse-ko-tewa-kiram-8th-vacant-secondary-welterweight-title|title=Matthysse comes alive in 8th, KO's Kiram|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-01-28}}

{{Main|Jorge Linares vs. Vasiliy Lomachenko}}

On 30 January Top Rank's Bob Arum told ESPN that negotiations had begun in December 2017 for a fight between two-weight world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko (10–1, 8 KOs) and Linares after speaking to Teiken Promotions, Linares' lead promoter, with the fight to take place on either 28 April or 12 May 2018. The fight would main event an ESPN card.{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2018/1/30/16949490/arum-negotiations-for-lomachenko-linares-underway+&cd=1&|title=Arum: Negotiations for Lomachenko-Linares underway|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2018-01-30}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/22260074/talks-underway-jorge-linares-face-vasiliy-lomachenko|title=Talks underway for Linares-Lomachenko fight|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-01-30}} Arum was pushing for the fight to take place at Madison Square Garden on 12 May 2018. The reason behind the date was explained by Arum, "May 12th is an extraordinarily important date for ESPN programming. It's right in the middle of the basketball playoffs." Carl Moretti called Eric Gomez of Golden Boy informing them of the date. Gomez stated they were happy with the fight, however the date of 12 May was not a good date for them, as they already had plans for that date. HBO would likely air the pay-per-view replay of Gennady Golovkin vs. Canelo Álvarez rematch, along with a live bout.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/arum-wants-bring-lomachenko-vs-linares-msg-on-12--125226|title=Arum Wants to Bring Lomachenko vs. Linares To MSG on May 12|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-14|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/golden-boy-prez-12-not-good-lomachenko-linares--125228|title=Golden Boy Prez: May 12 is NOT Good For Lomachenko-Linares|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-14|language=en-us}} On 17 February Gomez stated the fight was not called off and Arum would need to be more flexible with the date as Golden Boy accepted Arum's terms that the fight would take place in New York.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/golden-boy-prez-arum-flexible-make-loma-linares--125351|title=Golden Boy Prez: Arum Must Be Flexible To Make Loma-Linares|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-02-20|language=en-us}} On 13 March, Los Angeles Times confirmed that terms had been agreed between both sides. The agreement was reached after ESPN agreed to televise the fight at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, so it would broadcast before HBO's telecast on the same day. Madison Square Garden in New York City was confirmed as the venue.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/22750675/jorge-linares-vasyl-lomachenko-fight-finalized-12-madison-square-garden|title=Sources: Linares-Lomachenko finalized for May|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-03-14}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/lomachenko-linares-fight-finalized-12-msg--126178|title=Report: Lomachenko-Linares Fight Finalized for May 12 at MSG|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-03-14|language=en-us}} On 21 March the fight was officially announced.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/22855370/jorge-linares-vasyl-lomachenko-fight-finalized-12-madison-square-garden|title=Linares-Lomachenko finalized for May 12|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-03-21}} On 28 March Linares' trainer Ismael Salas stated that he would likely not be in his corner for the fight due to scheduling conflicts. Salas was in London at the time training David Haye for his rematch with Tony Bellew, which would take place a week before on 5 May.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/linares-new-trainer-lomachenko-fight-says-salas--126655|title=Linares May Have New Trainer For Lomachenko Fight, Says Salas|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-04-03|language=en-us}} Linares later stated that veteran Rudy Hernandez would lead his corner.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/linares-clarifies-salas-situation-training-lomachenko--126719|title=Linares Clarifies Salas Situation, Training For Lomachenko|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-04-03|language=en-us}} Both boxers weighed in 134.6 pounds.{{Cite news|url=http://www.worldboxingnews.net/2018/05/12/news/linares-lomachenko-weigh-exactly-the-same-ahead-of-huge-pound-for-pound-clash|title=Linares, Lomachenko weigh EXACTLY THE SAME ahead of huge pound for pound clash|last=Hersh|first=Kid|work=WBN - World Boxing News|access-date=2018-05-12|language=en-gb}}

In front of 10,429 in attendance, Lomachenko survived a knockdown in round 6 to win via TKO in round 10 after a perfectly placed liver shot to claim the WBA (Super) and The Ring lightweight titles. In doing so he became the fastest fighter ever to win titles in 3 different weight classes (only 12 professional fights) shattering the previous record of 20 fights, which was held by Jeff Fenech. Lomachenko wore Linares down with his fast shots through the first 9 rounds, before finishing the fight in round 10. Linares slowly beat the count but looked too hurt to continue. Referee Ricky Gonzalez stopped the fight at 2 minutes, 8 seconds of round 10. The loss snapped Linares' 13-fight win streak.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/lomachenko-gets-off-floor-knock-linares-out-tenth-results--128105|title=Lomachenko Gets Off The Floor To Knock Linares Out in Tenth|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-05-13|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11370144/vasyl-lomachenko-beats-jorge-linares-by-tko-to-win-wba-super-world-lightweight-title|title=Vasyl Lomachenko beats Jorge Linares by TKO to win WBA 'Super' world lightweight title|work=Sky Sports|access-date=2018-05-13|language=en}} At the time of stoppage, two judges had each fighter ahead 86-84 on their respective scorecards and the third judge Julie Lederman had it 85-85 even.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/lomachenko-vs-linares-official-scorecards-photo--128108|title=Lomachenko vs. Linares - Official Scorecards - Photo|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-05-13|language=en-us}} After the fight, Lomachenko said, "It was a great fight. That right hand [that knocked me down], it was a great punch. It happens. I prepared for the last few rounds, and my father [and trainer Anatoly Lomachenko] told me, 'You need to go to the body.' Linares is a great champion, and the fight was good for the fans and everybody." Speaking of the knockout punch, Linares said it was 'perfectly landed.' De La Hoya also congratulated Arum on the fight and told Arum it was good experience working together. According to CompuBox Stats, Linares landed 207 of 739 punches thrown (28%), this included 139 power punches landed and a total amount of 77 body shots landed. Lomachenko landed 213 of 627 punches thrown (34%), with 112 jabs.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/23485907/vasiliy-lomachenko-lomachenko-stops-jorge-linares-tko-10th-round|title=Lomachenko stops Linares with 10th-round TKO|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-05-13}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/lomachenko-vs-linares-compubox-punch-stats--128110|title=Lomachenko vs. Linares - CompuBox Punch Stats|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-05-13|language=en-us}} For the fight, Linares was paid a career high $1 million, with Lomachenko receiving a $1.2 million purse.{{Cite news|url=https://www.express.co.uk/sport/boxing/958728/Vasyl-Lomachenko-net-worth-Jorge-Linares-fight-boxing-news|title=Vasyl Lomachenko net worth: How much is the boxing pound-for-pound contender worth?|last=Mills|first=George|date=2018-05-13|work=Express.co.uk|access-date=2018-05-14|language=en}} The card averaged 1,024,00 viewers.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/lomachenko-linares-watched-by-average-audience-1024000--128180|title=Lomachenko-Linares Show Snags Average Audience of 1,024,000|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-05-16|language=en-us}} The fight itself averaged 1,439,000 viewers and peaked at 1,749,000 viewers, making it the most-watched boxing fight on cable television in 2018.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/lomachenko-linares-peak-viewership-1749000-on-espn--128210|title=Lomachenko-Linares Had Peak Viewership of 1,749,000 on ESPN|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-05-17|language=en-us}}

On 29 August 2018 Golden Boy announced that Linares would return to the ring, campaigning at light welterweight. The fight was confirmed to be the taking place at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California, on 29 September against Abner Cotto (23–3, 12 KOs) in a 12-round bout. In the US, the fight will be streamed live on Facebook Watch and globally on the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-vs-abner-cotto-on-september-29-140-pounds--131342|title=Jorge Linares vs. Abner Cotto on September 29, at 140-Pounds|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-08-31|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/24516140/jorge-linares-returns-ring-fight-abner-cotto|title=Linares tries to bounce back against Cotto|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-08-31|language=en}} Linares won the bout via KO in round 3. Linares dropped Cotto with a right hand to the head in round 2. In round 3, Linares knocked Cotto down with a hard right hand. Cotto was dropped again moments later, but dragged Linares down in the process. After getting up, Cotto was badly hurt. Referee Raul Caiz Sr. quickly stopped the fight. The official time of the stoppage was a 1:31 of round 3. Linares showed he was able to carry his power up in weight. In the post fight interview, Linares said, "It's my first fight with Facebook and I'm so happy with that. I'm ready, I'm happy. I feel better and better at 140. I'm ready for the big fights. I want to fight the best at 140." Linares said he would go back down to lightweight for a rematch against Lomachenko or to fight Mikey Garcia. Linares landed 58 of 132 shots (44%) while Cotto landed only 20 of 103 punches (19%). In round 3 alone, Linares landed 18 of 25 power shots.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/24839876/jorge-linares-stops-abner-cotto-junior-welterweight-debut|title=Linares stops Cotto in junior welterweight debut|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-09-30|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-arrives-140-crushes-abner-cotto-results--132301|title=Jorge Linares Arrives at 140, Crushes Abner Cotto in Three|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-09-30|language=en-us}}

In October 2018, the WBC stated they would likely order Linares to fight Adrien Broner (33-3-1, 24 KOs) in a final eliminator, as long as they abide by the code of ethics.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-vs-adrien-broner-ordered-by-wbc--132567|title=Jorge Linares vs. Adrien Broner To Be Ordered By WBC|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-10-20|language=en-us}} The fight was put in doubt after it was announced that Broner would fight former eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao in January 2019.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/manny-pacquiao-adrien-broner-fight-next-january-12-19--132830|title=Manny Pacquiao: Adrien Broner Fight is Next, January 12 or 19|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-10-20|language=en-us}}

In early December 2018, it was reported that Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn was looking to match WBO light welterweight champion Maurice Hooker (25-0-1, 19 KOs) with more credible opponents in 2019. Hearn planned for Chris Algieri and Linares fight in separate bouts on his 18 January 2019 DAZN card.{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingnews24.com/2018/12/hearn-wants-algieri-linares-to-challenge-maurice-hooker-in-2019/|title=Hearn wants Algieri & Linares to challenge Maurice Hooker in 2019|date=2018-12-15|website=Boxing News 24|language=en-US|access-date=2018-12-20}} DAZN announced Linares would fight 29 year old veteran Pablo César Cano (31–7–1, 21 KOs) on the card, which would take place at the Hulu Theater in New York City.{{Cite web|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2018/12/15/18142841/jorge-linares-to-face-pablo-cesar-cano-on-andrade-akavov-card|title=Jorge Linares to face Pablo Cesar Cano on Andrade-Akavov card|last=Christ|first=Scott|date=2018-12-15|website=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2018-12-20}} Linares lost on a first round technical knockout.

On August 16, 2019, the Teiken Boxing Gym announced that Lineres would face Al Toyogon in a ten round bout on September 7, 2019.{{cite web |last1=Adachi |first1=Hisao |title=Jorge Linares vs. Al Toyogon on September 7 in Tokyo |url=https://www.boxingscene.com/jorge-linares-vs-al-toyogon-on-september-7-tokyo--141784 |website=boxingscene.com |access-date=3 February 2022 |date=17 August 2019}} Linares won the fight convincingly via unanimous decision, 100–89, 100–90 and 99–90.{{Cite web|title=Linares vs Toyogon - News, Tape, Ringwalk, TV, Streaming & Tickets|url=https://box.live/fights/linares-vs-toyogon/|access-date=2021-09-20|website=Box.Live|language=en-US}}

In his next fight, Linares faced Carlos Morales. Linares dropped his opponent twice en route to a fourth-round KO win.{{Cite web|date=2020-02-14|title=Jorge Linares drops Carlos Morales twice en route to impressive fourth-round stoppage|url=https://www.ringtv.com/591784-jorge-linares-drops-carlos-morales-twice-en-route-to-impressive-fourth-round-stoppage/|access-date=2021-09-20|website=The Ring}}

{{Main|Devin Haney vs. Jorge Linares}}

In his first world title fight since facing Vasiliy Lomachenko in 2018, Linares challenged for Devin Haney's WBC lightweight title on 29 May 2021 in Paradise, Nevada. Haney controlled the action for most of the fight, but was hurt when Linares caught him with a powerful right-left combination toward the end of the tenth round. Haney survived the final two rounds largely by tying Linares up and negating the latter's attempts at trying to engage with him. Haney was awarded a unanimous decision with scores of 116–112, 116–112, 115–113, handing Linares the first decision loss of his professional career.{{Cite web|last=Idec|first=Keith|title=Devin Haney Survives Scare, Boxes Past Jorge Linares For Decision|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/devin-haney-boxes-past-jorge-linares-unanimous-decision-results--158018|access-date=2021-05-30|website=BoxingScene.com|date=30 May 2021 |language=en-us}}

Linares was booked to challenge the reigning WBC Silver lightweight champion Zaur Abdullaev on February 19, 2022. The bout was scheduled as the main event of an ESPN and Match TV broadcast card, that took place at the RCC Boxing Academy in Yekaterinburg, Russia.{{cite web |title=Jorge Linares faces Zaur Abdullaev in Ekaterinburg, Russia on February 22 |url=https://www.boxen247.com/jorge-linares-faces-zaur-abdullaev-in-ekaterinburg-russia-on-february-22/ |website=boxen247.com |access-date=8 February 2022 |date=17 January 2022}} Despite a strong start, Linares began to fade as the fight went on, before eventually losing the fight by a twelfth-round technical knockout. He was knocked down twice, before being stopped with a flurry of punches at the 2:28 minute mark of the last round.{{cite web |last1=Idec |first1=Keith |title=Zaur Abdullaev Drops Jorge Linares Twice In 12th Round, Stops Him While On His Feet |url=https://www.boxingscene.com/zaur-abdullaev-drops-jorge-linares-twice-12th-round-stops-him-on-his-feet--164229 |website=boxingscene.com |access-date=19 February 2022 |date=19 February 2022}}

Linares announced his retirement from professional boxing on Sunday, October 22, 2023.

{{BoxingRecordSummary

|draws=

|nc=

|ko-wins=29

|ko-losses=6

|dec-wins=18

|dec-losses=3

|dq-wins=

|dq-losses=

}}

• WBC featherweight champion (126 lbs)
• WBA super featherweight champion (130 lbs)
• WBA lightweight champion (135 lbs)
• WBC lightweight champion (135 lbs)

• The Ring lightweight champion (135 lbs)

• WBC interim featherweight champion (126 lbs)

• WBA Fedelatin super bantamweight champion (122 lbs)
• WBA Fedelatin featherweight champion (126 lbs)
• WBA Fedecentro featherweight champion (126 lbs)

• WBA Fedelatin interim lightweight champion (135 lbs)

• WBC Diamond lightweight champion

• List of boxing triple champions
• Devin Haney
• Vasiliy Lomachenko

{{Reflist}}

{{cc}}

• {{Boxrec|157610}}
• {{YouTube|user=vengoldenboy22/videos}}
• [https://box.live/boxers/jorge-linares/ Jorge Linares - Profile, News Archive & Current Rankings] at [https://Box.Live Box.Live]

{{s-start-collapsible|header={{s-sports}} }}

{{s-text|style=background:#C1D8FF; font-weight: bold;|text=Regional boxing titles}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-vac|last=Jose Rojas}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA Fedelatin
super bantamweight champion

|years=31 January 2004 – May 2004
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Sergio Manuel Medina}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-vac|last=Jose Pablo Estrella}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA Fedelatin
featherweight champion

|years=7 August 2004 – October 2004
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Whyber Garcia}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-vac|last=Jorge Solís}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA Fedecentro
featherweight champion

|years=26 May 2005 – August 2005
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Gabriel Dorado}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-vac|last=Ammeth Diaz}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA Fedelatin
lightweight champion
Interim title

|years=31 July 2010 – October 2010
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Ismael Barroso}}

{{s-text|style=background:#C1D8FF; font-weight: bold;|text=World boxing titles}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-vac|last=Humberto Soto}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBC featherweight champion
Interim title

|years=21 July 2007– 31 July 2007
Promoted}}

{{s-vac|next=Óscar Larios}}

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{{s-vac|last=Chi In-jin}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBC featherweight champion

|years=31 July 2007 – 13 August 2008
Vacated}}

{{s-aft|after=Óscar Larios
{{small|awarded title}}}}

{{s-vac|last=Edwin Valero}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA super featherweight champion

|years=28 November 2008 – 10 October 2009}}

{{s-aft|after=Juan Carlos Salgado}}

{{s-vac|last=Omar Figueroa Jr.}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBC lightweight champion

|years=30 December 2014 – 23 February 2016
Status changed}}

{{s-vac|next=Dejan Zlatičanin}}

{{s-bef|before=Anthony Crolla}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA lightweight champion

|years=24 September 2016 – 12 May 2018
Lost bid for Super title}}

{{s-aft|after=Vasiliy Lomachenko|as=Super champion}}

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{{s-vac|last=Terence Crawford}}

{{s-ttl|title=The Ring lightweight champion

|years=24 September 2016 – 12 May 2018}}

{{s-aft|after=Vasiliy Lomachenko}}

{{s-text|style=background:#C1D8FF; font-weight: bold;|text=Honorary boxing titles}}

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{{s-vac|last=Omar Figueroa Jr.}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBC lightweight champion
In recess

|years=23 February 2016 – 24 September 2016
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Devin Haney}}

{{s-end}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Linares, Jorge}}

Category:1985 births

Category:Living people

Category:Venezuelan expatriate sportspeople in Japan

Category:Sportspeople from Barinas (state)

Category:World Boxing Council champions

Category:World Boxing Association champions

Category:Venezuelan male boxers

Category:Super-bantamweight boxers

Category:The Ring (magazine) champions

Category:World featherweight boxing champions

Category:World super-featherweight boxing champions

Category:World lightweight boxing champions

Category:Light-welterweight boxers