Román González (boxer)

González was reportedly undefeated as an amateur, amassing an 88–0 record in official amateur bouts. The highlight of his amateur career was winning the light flyweight gold medal at the 2004 Central American Championships.{{Cite web|url=http://boxrec.com/media/index.php/Roman_Gonzalez|title=Roman Gonzalez - BoxRec}}

Dubbed "Chocolatito", an 18 year old González turned professional as a light flyweight in 2005. In his debut, he fought at the Pharaohs Casino in Managua, Nicaragua against 23 year old Ramon Urbina (0–1, 0 KOs) in a scheduled 4 round fight. González won via knockout in round 2.{{Cite web|url=http://boxrec.com/bout/975227|title=Roman Gonzalez debut|website=boxrec.com|access-date=2016-07-02}} In his 9th professional fight, González fought Oscar Murillo (11–10, 8 KOs) for the vacant Nicaraguan and WBA Fedecentro light flyweight titles. González won via a 1st-round knockout. In his next fight, González would also win the WBA Fedelatin minimumweight title against José Luis Varela, after which he returned to light flyweight. González won his first 16 fights all by way of knockout, before meeting Hiroshi Matsumoto (17–7–4, 8 KOs) at the Bunka Gym in Yokohama on 14 January 2008. The fight went the full 10 rounds as González picked up the win via unanimous decision (100–90, 100–90 98–92) in his first fight outside his native Nicaragua.{{Cite web|url=http://boxrec.com/bout/1265749|title=Roman Gonzalez first win via decision|website=boxrec.com|access-date=2016-07-02}}

On 15 September 2008, González fought the WBA world minimumweight champion Yutaka Niida (23–1–3, 9 KOs) in Yokohama, Japan in what was only his second fight in the minimumweight division. González scored a technical knockout with 58 seconds left in the fourth round to win the title. He was ahead 30–27 on all the scorecards at the time of stoppage.{{Cite web|url=http://boxingvideo.org/videogallery/roman-gonzalez-vs-yutaka-niida-full-fight/|title=Roman Gonzalez vs. Yutaka Niida|date=29 September 2014|access-date=7 January 2017}}

After winning the WBA title, González made his debut at flyweight on 13 December 2008, stopping Miguel Tellez (18–11, 6 KOs) in the third round.{{Cite web|url=http://boxrec.com/bout/1372340|title=Roman Gonzalez first fight at Flyweight|website=boxrec.com|access-date=2016-07-02}}

He went back to minimumweight on 28 February 2009 to defend his world crown against Francisco Rosas (20–5–2, 12 KOs) which he won by majority decision (116–112, 115–113 & 114–114). This was González's first time fighting in Mexico.{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4nh1sx2ltRA |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/4nh1sx2ltRA |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|title=Roman Gonzalez vs.Francisco Rosas 1|website=YouTube|date=26 September 2014 }}{{cbignore}}

In July 2009, González defended his belt at the World Memorial Hall in Japan against Katsunari Takayama (23–3, 9 KOs). After 12 rounds, the three judges all scored it 118–110 for González.{{Cite web|url=http://boxrec.com/bout/1413389|title=Gonzalez retains against Takayama in Japan|website=boxrec.com|access-date=2016-07-02}} In January 2010, González exposed title against Ivan Meneses (14–5–1, 8 KOs). Meneses was knocked down in the third round, before the fight was stopped in the next round.{{Cite web|url=http://boxrec.com/bout/1481961|title=Gonzalez KO's Meneses|website=boxrec.com|access-date=2016-07-02}}

González vacated his minimumweight title after 3 successful defenses, moving back to light flyweight. On his first fight in his new weight class, he defeated Jesus Limones (10–1–1, 4 KOs) via 2nd-round TKO in September 2010.

A 23-year-old González won the vacant WBA interim light flyweight title against Francisco Rosas (21–7–2, 12 KOs) in Tokyo on 24 October 2010.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-francisco-rosas-set-wba-belt--31565|title=Roman Gonzalez-Francisco Rosas Set For WBA Belt|date=6 October 2010|website=Boxing Scene|access-date=7 January 2017}} This was the second time they fought, having previously fought in the minimumweight division. González won by KO in the second round. Rosas was knocked down three times in this fight. After his first fight against Francisco Rosas, González said that he fought while being ill with severe stomach disorders, and that was the reason why he looked so sluggish and tired.{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKFfmGNLRFc |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/TKFfmGNLRFc |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|title=Roman Gonzalez vs Francisco Rosas II|website=YouTube|date=12 September 2014 |access-date=7 January 2017}}{{cbignore}} González was promoted to full champion in February 2011 after Juan Carlos Reveco resigned as light flyweight champion to pursue a flyweight title.{{cite web | url=http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/reveco-gives-up-wba-belt-74592 | title=Reveco gives up WBA belt | author=Gabriel F. Cordero | publisher=Fightnews.com | date=2011-02-04 | access-date=2011-02-07 | archive-date=7 February 2011 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110207114102/http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/reveco-gives-up-wba-belt-74592 | url-status=dead }}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-king-reveco-drops-wba-belt--35590|title=Roman Gonzalez is King After Reveco Drops WBA Belt|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en-us}}

On 22 February 2011 it was announced that González would make his first defence against former champion Manuel Vargas (30–7–1, 15 KOs) on 19 March in Mexico.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-manuel-vargas-on-chavez-medina-card--36268|title=Roman Gonzalez-Manuel Vargas on Chavez-Medina Card|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en-us}} González was victorious over Vargas via unanimous decision (119–109, 116–112, 116–112){{Cite web|url=http://ringtv.craveonline.com/blog/129126-gonzalez-retains-108-pound-title-|title=Gonzalez retains 108-pound title|author=Dennis Taylor|date=20 March 2011|publisher=The Ring|access-date=26 August 2011}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-takes-his-act-on-road--37216|title=Roman Gonzalez Takes His Act On The Road|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en-us}} It was announced that González would return to fight in Mexico in July.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-return-on-july-9-mexico--39615|title=Roman Gonzalez To Return on July 9 in Mexico|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en-us}} In June, it was announced that González would fight 31 year old Omar Salado (22–3–2, 13 KOs) on 9 July.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-face-omar-salado-on-july-9th--39917|title=Roman Gonzalez To Face Omar Salado on July 9th|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en-us}} González dropped Salado en route to a stoppage win in round 7.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-stops-omar-salado-seven-rounds--41626|title=Roman Gonzalez Stops Omar Salado in Seven Rounds|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en-us}}{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/769686-juan-manuel-marquez-vs-likar-ramos-available-free-on-top-rank-website/entry/108099-light-flyweight-bout-roman-gonzalez-defeats-omar-salado-by-tko-in-round-7|title=Light-Flyweight Bout: Roman Gonzalez Defeats Omar Salado by TKO in Round 7|author=Blake Dreisbach|date=16 July 2011|website=Bleacher Report|access-date=26 August 2011}}

González's third defense took place at the Marquee Ballroom in MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, on 1 October 2011.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-face-omar-soto-on-october-1--43675|title=Roman Gonzalez To Face Omar Soto on October 1|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en-us}} In his first fight in the United States, González knocked out Omar Soto (22–7–2, 15 KOs) with a straight right and left uppercut combination 36 seconds into the 2nd round.{{Cite web|url=http://ringtv.craveonline.com/blog/169428-gonzalez-stops-soto-in-second-round|title=Gonzalez stops Soto in second round|author=Michael Rosenthal|date=2 October 2011|publisher=The Ring|access-date=3 October 2011}} The title was only on the line for González, as Soto weighed in considerably above the weight limit, at 111 lbs.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-crushes-soto-easy-chris-martin-upset--44469|title=Roman Gonzalez Crushes Soto Easy, Chris Martin Upset|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en-us}}

On 17 March 2012 González faced Manuel Jimenez (11–2–1, 5 KOs) at Sinaloa, Mexico, defeating Jimenez via 1st-round KO. This was a non-title fight.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-drills-manuel-jiminez-first-round--50746|title=Roman Gonzalez Drills Manuel Jiminez in The First Round|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en-us}} The original opponent to fight González was former IBF champion Ramon Garcia Hirales (16–3–1, 9 KOs), who initially replaced his twin brother Raúl García.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-now-face-ramon-garcia-on-3-17--50133|title=Roman Gonzalez Will Now Face Ramon Garcia on 3/17|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalezs-opponent-changes-now-two-dates--50516|title=Roman Gonzalez's Opponent Changes, Now Two Dates|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-08|language=en-us}}

On 28 April 2012 González defended his WBA light flyweight title against Ramon Garcia Hirales at the Fairplex in Pomona, California. The fight ended as the count was waived by referee Raul Caiz Jr, after Garcia was knocked down twice in the 4th round. González was ahead 30–27 on all scorecards at the time of stoppage.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-stops-garcia-lenk-lucky-boy-win--52308|title=Roman Gonzalez Stops Garcia: Lenk, Lucky Boy Win – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=28 April 2012 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-22}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xqgs6p|title=2012-04-28 Roman Gonzalez vs Ramon Garcia Hirales by Ryan Bivins – Dailymotion|date=2012-04-29|website=Dailymotion|access-date=2017-09-22}}

González briefly moved up to Flyweight on 6 October 2012 and fought undefeated 23-year-old Stiven Monterrosa (9–0–2, 8 KOs) at the Hotel Holiday Inn in Managua, Nicaragua. Monterrosa was knocked down in rounds 1 and 2. The stoppage seemed questionable as the referee waved the fight off as González was finishing off his combination and landed a punch which didn't appear to hurt Monterrosa. Monterrosa questioned the officials as to why the fight was stopped.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-secures-questionable-tko-victory--57909|title=Roman Gonzalez Secures a Questionable TKO Victory – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=7 October 2012 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-22}}{{Citation|last=Videos Prodesa|title=Pelea Roman Gonzalez vs Stiven Monterrosa – Prodesa|date=2014-09-26|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpkHU1BrZWg |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/fpkHU1BrZWg |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2017-09-22}}{{cbignore}}

On 27 October 2012 it was announced that González would fight 22 year old flyweight prospect Juan Francisco Estrada (26–1, 20 KOs) at Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena on 17 November.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-faces-juan-francisco-estrada-on-11-17--58705|title=Roman Gonzalez Faces Juan Francisco Estrada on 11/17|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-10|language=en-us}} In an entertaining bout, González retained his title via unanimous decision. This was the second time González fought in California and the third time in the United States. The judges scored it (118–110, 116–112, 116–112) all in favour of González.{{Cite news|url=http://www.allthebestfights.com/roman-gonzalez-vs-juan-francisco-estrada-full-fight-video-pelea-2012/|title=Roman Gonzalez vs Juan Francisco Estrada – full fight Video pelea WBA|date=2012-11-18|work=All The Best Fights.com|access-date=2017-09-22|language=en-GB}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/brian-viloria-stops-tyson-marquez-ten-unify--59469|title=Brian Viloria Stops Tyson Marquez in Ten To Unify|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-10|language=en-us}}

On 25 May 2013 González fought Colombian Ronald Barrera (30–11–2, 18 KOs) in a non-title bout at super flyweight at the Polideportivo España, Managua, Nicaragua.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/photo-roman-gonzalez-ronald-barrera-face-face--65857|title=Photo: Roman Gonzalez, Ronald Barrera Face To Face – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=24 May 2013 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-22}} González won the fight via fifth-round stoppage. Referee Onofre Ramirez stopped the fight after Barrera was knocked down 2 minutes 42 seconds into the round. The fight was originally scheduled for 113 pounds, but both boxers weighed 116 pounds. This led many to question if González would be able to cut back down to 108 pounds.{{Cite web|date=2019-03-28|title=Roman Gonzalez Successful In a Heavier Weight Class But Will He Be Able To Return To 108 Pounds? {{!}} Tha Boxing Voice|url=http://thaboxingvoice.com/roman-gonzalez-successful-in-a-heavier-weight-class-but-will-he-be-able-to-return-to-108-pounds/|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190328070214/http://thaboxingvoice.com/roman-gonzalez-successful-in-a-heavier-weight-class-but-will-he-be-able-to-return-to-108-pounds/|archive-date=2019-03-28|access-date=2021-03-28}}{{Citation|last=Videos Prodesa|title=Pelea Roman Gonzalez vs Ronald Barrera – Videos Prodesa|date=2014-10-31|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIGWIloqlo8 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/sIGWIloqlo8 |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2017-09-22}}{{cbignore}}

After 5 successful title defenses at light flyweight, vacated his title to move up to flyweight. On 21 September 2013 he defeated Francisco Rodríguez, Jr. by TKO in the 7th round.{{Citation|last=Videos Prodesa|title=Pelea Roman Gonzalez vs Francisco Rodriguez Jr – Pelea completa – Videos Prodesa|date=2014-10-31|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onZFPCaT6NY |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/onZFPCaT6NY |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2017-06-11}}{{cbignore}} He then defeated Oscar Blanquet, Juan Kantun and Philippine Juan Purisima, all by TKO. With this string of fights, González took his professional record to 39–0, with 33 wins coming by way of knockout.[http://deportes.terra.cl/otros-deportes/nicaraguense-roman-gonzalez-gana-al-mexicano-francisco-rodriguez-en-boxeo,349fb55f17d31410VgnCLD2000000ec6eb0aRCRD.html Nicaragüense Roman González gana al mexicano Francisco Rodríguez en boxeo]{{in lang|es}}

On 23 June 2014 it was finally confirmed that González would challenge the WBC, The Ring and lineal flyweight champion Akira Yaegashi (20–3, 10 KOs) on 5 September 2014 at the Yoyogi #2 Gymnasium in Tokyo, Japan.{{Cite web|url=http://www.asianboxing.info/asian-news/akira-yaegashi-vs-roman-gonzalez-and-naoya-inoue-vs-samartlek-kokietgym-doubleheader-announced|title=Akira Yaegashi Vs Roman Gonzalez and Naoya Inoue Vs Samartlek Kokietgym doubleheader announced!|website=Asian Boxing|access-date=2017-09-22}} González won the fight via ninth-round TKO to win the WBC, The Ring and lineal flyweight titles, becoming a boxing triple champion.{{cite web|url=http://www.cyberboxingzone.com/boxing/fly.htm|title=Román González – Lineal Flyweight Champion|publisher=The Cyber Boxing Zone Encyclopedia}}{{cite web|url=http://ringtv.craveonline.com/news/354805-roman-gonzalez-stops-akira-yaegashi-in-nine-wins-ring-flyweight-title|title=Roman Gonzalez stops Akira Yaegashi in nine, wins RING flyweight title|access-date=5 September 2014|archive-date=21 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160321140228/http://ringtv.craveonline.com/news/354805-roman-gonzalez-stops-akira-yaegashi-in-nine-wins-ring-flyweight-title|url-status=dead}} Yaegashi was knocked down in rounds 3 and 9. Referee Michael Griffin stopped the fight after a final uppercut to Yaegashi. At the time of stoppage the three judges had the fight (80–71 & 79–72 twice) in favour of González.{{Cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2189031-roman-gonzalez-tkos-akira-yaegashi-takes-helm-of-the-flyweight-division|title=Roman Gonzalez TKOs Akira Yaegashi, Takes Helm of the Flyweight Division|website=Bleacher Report|date=6 September 2014|access-date=7 January 2016}}{{Citation|last=ninox|title=ROMAN CHOCOLATITO GONZALEZ VS AKIRA YAEGASHI|date=2014-09-10|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQxGEUzK9P4|access-date=2017-09-22}}{{cbignore}}{{Dead Youtube links|date=February 2022}}{{Cite web|date=2020-12-19|title=Roman Gonzalez Makes History By Defeating Akira Yaegashi {{!}} Tha Boxing Voice|url=http://thaboxingvoice.com/roman-gonzalez-makes-history-by-defeating-akira-yaegashi/|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201219001652/http://thaboxingvoice.com/roman-gonzalez-makes-history-by-defeating-akira-yaegashi/|archive-date=2020-12-19|access-date=2021-03-28}}

On 19 October 2014 Teiken Boxing Gym announced that González would make a defence of his titles against Rocky Fuentes (35–7–2, 20 KOs) on 22 November at the International Swimming Pool in Yokohama, Japan. The fight was being discussed for over a month.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gonzalez-fuentes-fight-officially-announced-by-teiken--83362|title=Gonzalez-Fuentes Fight Officially Announced By Teiken|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-12|language=en-us}} González retained the titles against Fuentes via sixth-round TKO.{{cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-stops-rocky-fuentes-sixth--84551|title=Roman Gonzalez Stops Rocky Fuentes in the Sixth|date=22 November 2014 |access-date=22 November 2014}} González fought Valentin Leon in a non-title bout on 28 February 2015, winning via a 3rd-round TKO.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gonzalez-handles-easy-assignment-hbo-looms--87978|title=Gonzalez Handles Easy Assignment; HBO Looms?|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-12|language=en-us}}

On 24 March 2015 it was announced that González would be making his HBO debut against Mexican boxer Édgar Sosa (51–8, 30 KOs) at The Forum in Inglewood, California, on HBO World Championship Boxing on the Golovkin vs. Monroe undercard on 16 May.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/gonzalez-sosa-formally-announced-5-16-hbo-co-main--88880|title=Gonzalez-Sosa Formally Announced As 5/16 HBO Co-Main|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-12|language=en-us}} González defeated Sosa via a 2nd-round TKO. Sosa was down 3 times in round 2. Sosa made no effort to try to get up after the third knockdown.{{Cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2015/5/16/8616535/gonzalez-vs-sosa-results-chocolatito-smashes-edgar-sosa-in-two-rounds|title=Gonzalez crushes Sosa in two|last=Christ|first=Scott|date=2015-05-16|website=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2017-06-11}}{{Citation|last=WeProvideTheHighQualityContent|title=Roman Gonzalez vs Edgar Sosa Fight Highlights Full Fight Recap Chocolatito My Thoughts Review|date=2015-05-16|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dr0YLr8zvgc |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/Dr0YLr8zvgc |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|access-date=2017-06-11}}{{cbignore}} González earned a career high $200,000 against Sosa.{{Cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2016/4/23/11490304/hbo-boxing-purses-gennady-ggg-golovkin-2-million-dominic-wade-500000-boxing-news|title=HBO Boxing purses: Gennady Golovkin $2 million, Dominic Wade $500,000|last=Alexander|first=Mookie|date=2016-04-23|website=Bloody Elbow|access-date=2016-08-13}} After defeating Sosa, González called for a rematch against Estrada.{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2015/05/roman-gonzalez-wants-rematch-against-juan-estrada/|title=Roman Gonzalez wants rematch against Juan F. Estrada » Boxing News|date=2015-05-17|work=Boxing News 24|access-date=2017-07-29|language=en-US}}

It was announced that González would defend his world titles against 34 year old former unified flyweight champion Brian Viloria (36–4, 22 KOs) at Madison Square Garden in New York City on 17 October 2015 on the undercard of the middleweight unification bout between Gennady Golovkin and David Lemieux.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/13416223/roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-defend-flyweight-title-versus-brian-viloria-oct-17|title='Chocolatito' Gonzalez to defend title vs. Viloria|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-06-11}} González defeated Viloria via a 9th-round TKO to retain his World titles. Viloria was knocked down in the 3rd round with a short right-hand from González. In round 9, González landed a wide-open right hand that snapped Viloria's head to the side. With Viloria having taken a beating, referee Benjy Esteves Jr. stepped in and stopped the fight at 2 minutes, 52 seconds. According to CompuBox, González landed 335 of 805 punches (42 percent), and Viloria was limited to landing only 186 of 594 (31 percent). González was ahead on all 3 judges scorecards (78–73 twice, 79–72) before the knockdown. With the win, González moved to 14–0 in world title bouts. González earned a $250,000 purse.{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/13911929/roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-stops-brian-viloria-retains-flyweight-title|title=Gonzalez stops Viloria, retains flyweight title|date=18 October 2015|access-date=2016-08-13}}

On 13 February 2016 it was announced that González would defend his titles against McWilliams Arroyo (16–2, 14 KOs) on 23 April 2016 at The Forum in Inglewood, California on a co-feature of World Middleweight title bout between Gennady Golovkin and Dominic Wade. This was the third consecutive time González co-featured on a Golovkin card.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/14768554/roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-fight-mcwilliams-arroyo-co-feature-gennady-golovkin-title-defense|title='Chocolatito' to fight Arroyo on Golovkin undercard|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-07-14}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-mcwilliams-arroyo-done-golovkin-wade--101262|title=Roman Gonzalez-McWilliams Arroyo Done For Golovkin-Wade – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=12 February 2016 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-07-14}} González won via unanimous decision (120–108, 120–108, 119–109) ending his ten-fight stoppage streak. Dan Rafael from ESPN scored the fight a shutout (120–108) for González. On fight night, González weighed in at 126 pounds and said he could make one more defence before moving up to super flyweight, "My conditioning was fantastic. Training in Costa Rica made all the difference [...] I think maybe one more fight at 112 and then I move up to 115. I want to fight the best possible opponent."{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/15311769/flyweight-world-champion-roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-dominates-mcwilliams-arroyo-12-rounds|title=Gonzalez dominates Arroyo to keep flyweight championship|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-07-14}}

González landed 360 of 1,132 (32%) total punches while Arroyo landed 193 of 711 (27%) of his total punches.{{Cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2016/4/23/11496446/gonzalez-vs-arroyo-results-roman-gonzalez-dominates-but-ko-streak-ends|title=Gonzalez vs Arroyo results: Roman Gonzalez dominates, but KO streak ends|last=Christ|first=Scott|date=2016-04-24|website=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2016-07-02}} González earned a then career high $300,000 purse for this fight. According to the Nielsen ratings, the fight averaged 1.001 million viewers and peaked at 1.14 million.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2016/04/208835/|title=Golovkin vs. Wade averaged 1.325M viewers on HBO » Boxing News|date=2016-04-26|website=Boxing News 24|access-date=2017-07-14}}

K2 Promotions announced on 14 July that González will move up to super flyweight to challenge Carlos Cuadras (35–0–1, 27 KOs) for his WBC title. The bout took place on 10 September 2016 at The Forum in Inglewood. The fight was part of a HBO split-site telecast on which K2 stablemate and unified middleweight titleholder Gennady Golovkin defeated welterweight titlist Kell Brook at the O2 Arena in London. That night, HBO had live coverage of Cuadras-González along with a replay of Golovkin-Brook.{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/17054525/roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-bids-fourth-belt-vs-carlos-cuadras|title='Chocolatito' to fight Cuadras in bid for 4th belt|date=13 July 2016|access-date=2016-07-16}}

In a close fight, González defeated Cuadras via 12 round unanimous decision to become the WBC super flyweight champion. This was the first time González headlined a card and drew a crowd of 6,714, which was considered a success. The three judges scored the bout 117–111, 116–112 and 115–113, all in favour of González. Combined, both fighters threw over 1,000 punches, with González getting the better of Cuadras. González was guaranteed a $400,000 purse for the fight, his highest ever. The fight averaged 843,000 viewers on HBO.{{Cite news|url=https://sundaypuncher.com/gonzalez-vs-cuadras-was-worth-the-money-a766f3e6cb6c|title=Gonzalez vs Cuadras Was Worth The Money – sundaypuncher|date=2016-09-13|work=sundaypuncher|access-date=2017-07-14}} In

attendance and at ringside for that fight was WBO super flyweight champion Naoya Inoue. Shortly after Gonzalez's win over Cuadras, representatives of Inoue sent a formal offer to Gonzalez for what would've been a unification showdown. González stipulated that the terms offered for an Inoue fight weren't good enough, and turned down the contract.{{Cite web|url=https://3kingsboxing.com/naoya-inoue-vs-roman-gonzalez-never-was/|title= Naoya Inoue vs Roman Gonzalez|website=3kingsboxing.com|date= 23 October 2023|access-date=2023-10-23}}

After the win, González made history by becoming the first fighter in the history of Nicaragua to capture four titles in four weight divisions, something his mentor Alexis Argüello failed to do twice during his career.{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/17517865/roman-gonzalez-wins-slugfest-carlos-cuadras-becomes-4-weight-champ|title=Gonzalez beats Cuadras, becomes four-weight champ|date=11 September 2016|access-date=2016-09-26}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2016/09/gonzalez-vs-cuadras-tonight/|title=Purses: Chocolatito $400k, Cuadras $250k – Boxing News|date=2016-09-10|language=en-US|access-date=2016-09-26}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10573983/roman-gonzalez-defeats-carlos-cuadras-to-become-four-weight-world-champion|title=Roman Gonzalez defeats Carlos Cuadras to become four-weight world champion|date=11 September 2016|website=Sky Sports|access-date=26 September 2016}}

After 4 successful flyweight title defenses, González vacated his WBC Flyweight title. He would be keeping the WBC super flyweight title and continue fighting in the 115 lbs division.{{Cite web|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/17685952/roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-vacates-flyweight-world-title-keep-junior-bantamweight-belt|title=Chocolatito vacates flyweight belt, keeps junior bantam|date=October 2016|access-date=2016-10-02}}

On 8 November 2016, González's trainer since 2010, Arnulfo Obando, was hospitalized after suffering a stroke earlier that week and in a serious condition.{{cite web|url=https://news.co.cr/nicaraguan-world-champion-roman-gonzalez-mourns-death-trainer-arnulfo-obando/52978/|title=Nicaraguan World Champion Roman Gonzalez mourns death of his trainer Arnulfo Obando|author=Laura Alvarado|date=10 November 2010|access-date=19 March 2019|publisher=The Costa Rica Star|quote=Obando was in Chocolatito’s corner in three of the four times that he was crowned champion, they began working together in 2010 when Gonzalez, now a four-division world champion, was defending his title against Ivan Meneses.}} Upon arriving at the hospital, he was declared brain dead.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingnewsandviews.com/2016/11/08/roman-gonzalez-trainer/|title=Roman Gonzalez Trainer In Critical Condition In Hospital|date=2016-11-08|newspaper=Boxing News and Views|language=en-US|access-date=2016-11-11}} On 11 November, the WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman confirmed in a statement that Obando had died at the age of 53. It was also said that González would take a break from boxing.{{Cite news|date=2016-11-11|title=Roman Gonzalez Coach Arnulfo Obando Sadly Passes Away Aged 53|language=en-US|newspaper=Boxing News and Views|url=https://www.boxingnewsandviews.com/2016/11/11/roman-gonzalez-coach-arnulfo-obando-sadly-passes-away-aged-53/|access-date=2016-11-11}} On 24 January 2017 González started the training camp for his upcoming fight and announced that his father, Luis González would be his head trainer.{{Cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2017/1/24/14369430/roman-gonzalezs-father-to-take-over-as-head-trainer|title=Chocolatito's father to take over as head trainer|last=Esco|first=Wil|date=2017-01-24|website=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2017-01-24}}

{{Main|Gennady Golovkin vs. Daniel Jacobs}}

In December 2016, at the 54th WBC Convention, president Mauricio Sulaiman announced that a rematch would take place between González and Cuadras for the WBC title in March 2017. The winner of the rematch will need to fight WBC #2 mandatory and WBC silver champion Srisaket Sor Rungvisai (41–4–1, 38 KOs).{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-vs-cuadras-rematch-march-says-wbc-prez--111759|title=Chocolatito vs.Cuadras Rematch for March says WBC president|date=14 December 2016|website=Boxing Scene|access-date=16 December 2016}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.worldboxingnews.net/2016/12/15/news/roman-gonzalez-to-rematch-carlos-cuadras-in-march|title=Roman Gonzalez to rematch Carlos Cuadras in March|work=WBN - World Boxing News |date=15 December 2016|access-date=16 December 2016}} González stated he hadn't agreed to a rematch or signed any contracts for a rematch to take place as he was not obligated to do so. González also spoke about the purse offered to him for a rematch, "The HBO people are offering me very low money, so I can not accept that fight. I've been struggling to get a good purse, because we are the world's number one pound for pound." It was reported that González was looking for a purse of around $1 million.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-i-pressured-face-cuadras-low-pay--111929|title=Chocolatito: I Won't Be Pressured To Face Cuadras For Low Pay!|date=19 December 2016|access-date=26 December 2016}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/wbc-prez-reacts-chocolatito-beef-with-low-pay-cuadras--111990|title=WBC Prez Reacts To Chocolatito's Beef With Low Pay For Cuadras|date=21 December 2016|website=Boxing Scene|access-date=26 December 2016}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/cuadras-reacts-chocolatito-pay-beef-wonders-if-its-fear--112081|title=Cuadras Reacts To Chocolatito's Pay Beef, Wonders if it's Fear|date=25 December 2016|website=Boxing Scene|access-date=26 December 2016}}

On 5 January González's manager Carlos Blandon said that an opponent would be announced in ten days.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-reveal-his-next-opponent-soon-says-manager--112362|title=Chocolatito To Reveal His Next Opponent Soon, Says Manager|date=4 January 2017|website=Boxing Scene|access-date=7 January 2017}} A day later, due to González not being obliged to give Cuadras a rematch, Sulaimán stated that Sor Rungvisai will get a chance to fight González next.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-vs-srisaket-sor-rungvisai-appears-likely-march--112388|title=Chocolatito vs. Srisaket Sor Rungvisai Appears Likely For March|date=5 January 2017|website=Boxing Scene|access-date=7 January 2017}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-vs-sor-rungvisai-happen-says-sulaiman--112416|title=Chocolatito vs. Sor Rungvisai Will Happen, Says Sulaiman|date=6 January 2017|website=Boxing Scene|access-date=7 January 2017}} The fight was officially announced on 7 January and served as the co-feature for Gennady Golovkin vs. Daniel Jacobs at Madison Square Garden on 18 March 2017. Coming into the fight Rungvisai had only one loss since 2010, which came to Cuadras in 2014 via technical decision.{{Cite web|url=http://www.ringtv.com/479923-chocolatito-face-mandatory-srisaket-march-18-msg/|title=Chocolatito to face mandatory Srisaket March 18 at MSG|date=10 January 2017|website=RingTV|access-date=11 January 2017}}

On fight night, González was knocked down in the first round by a body shot and went on to lose his first professional fight as well as the WBC super flyweight title via majority decision. Waleska Roldan scored the fight 113–113 even, whilst Glenn Feldman and Julie Lederman both scored it 114–112 in favor of Sor Rungvisai. ESPN scored the bout wide 117–109 in favor of González. Many boos were heard around the arena filled with 19,939 following the announcement of the decision. In round 3, González suffered a cut over his right eye, via an accidental clash of heads. The cut was treated by his corner throughout the fight, but blood still flowed on the side of his face. Sor Rungvisai lost a point in round 6 due to another clash of heads. After the fight, González stated "I thought I won the fight. I want an immediate rematch. I want to get my title back." Compubox stats showed González landed 441 of his 1,013 thrown (44%), while Sor Rungvisai landed 284 of 940 (30%). González out-landed Sor Rungvisai in 10 rounds out of 12. He also set a super flyweight record for power shots landed with 372.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/sor-rungvisai-drops-decisions-roman-gonzalez-big-upset-results--114746|title=Sor Rungvisai Drops, Decisions Roman Gonzalez in Big Upset – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=18 March 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-03-20}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/18946776/srisaket-sor-rungvisai-defeats-roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-wins-junior-bantamweight-title|title=Sor Rungvisai defeats Gonzalez, wins title|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-03-20}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-srisaket-sor-rungvisai-compubox-punch-stats--114758|title=Roman Gonzalez-Srisaket Sor Rungvisai – CompuBox Punch Stats – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=19 March 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-03-20}} González earned a career high purse $500,000 whilst Rungvisai earned $75,000.{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingnewsandviews.com/2017/03/17/golovkin-vs-jacobs-purse/|title=Golovkin vs Jacobs Purse – Plus Roman Gonzalez Fight Purse|last=BoxingNewsAndViews|date=2017-03-17|website=Boxing News and Views|access-date=2017-03-24}}

K2 director Tom Loeffler stated on 31 March that González would seek a rematch with Sor Rungvisai.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-aims-secure-sor-rungvisai-rematch-says-loeffler--115170|title=Chocolatito Aims To Secure Sor Rungvisai Rematch, Says Loeffler – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=31 March 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-04-05}} On 4 April 2017 the WBC ordered a direct rematch to take place between González and Sor Rungvisai. The winner of the first fight was due to fight mandatory challenger Carlos Cuadras. However, due to the direct rematch, the WBC ordered Cuadras to fight the next available contender, former unified flyweight champion Juan Francisco Estrada for the WBC interim title. The winner of both fights would then proceed to fight each other. WBC rationalized this with the following statement,

{{Blockquote|text=“Rules regarding accidental head butts were not used, but most importantly, considering the public demand to witness once again a great match between these two great fighters, the WBC has granted the request.”|sign=|source=}}

Loeffler confirmed a date in the fall of 2017 would be considered and a venue will be discussed with representatives of Rungvisai.{{Cite news|url=http://www.ringtv.com/491642-wbc-orders-gonzalez-sor-rungvisai-ii-cuadras-estrada-for-interim-title/|title=WBC orders Gonzalez-Sor Rungvisai II, Cuadras-Estrada for interim title – The Ring|date=2017-04-04|work=The Ring|access-date=2017-04-05|language=en-US}} On 6 June Loeffler said the rematch would take place on 9 September on HBO at a location in California. It was said the Japanese super flyweight Naoya Inoue would be in line to make his American TV debut on the same card.{{Cite news|url=https://www.ringtv.com/502099-wisaksil-wangek-roman-gonzalez-rematch-slated-september-9/|title=Wisaksil Wangek-Roman Gonzalez rematch slated for September 9 – The Ring|date=2017-06-06|work=The Ring|access-date=2017-06-11|language=en-US}} On 7 June González travelled to Japan to negotiate a deal with Teiken Promotions for the fight. One of the main reasons for discussing the contract, was his purse.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-heads-japan-negotiate-terms-sor-rungvisai-ii--117352|title=Chocolatito Heads To Japan To Negotiate Terms of Sor Rungvisai II – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=8 June 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-06-11}} It was revealed by Mexican promoter Osvaldo Küchle, that Cuadras and Estrada would fight on the undercard for the WBC interim title.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/cuadras-vs-estrada-eyed-chocolatito-sor-rungvisai-hbo-card--117393|title=Cuadras vs. Estrada Eyed For Chocolatito-Sor Rungvisai HBO Card – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=9 June 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-06-11}} On 6 July Tom Loeffler announced the fight would take place at the StubHub Center in Carson, California.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-sor-rungvisai-hbo-triple-heads-stubhub-center--118237|title=Chocolatito-Sor Rungvisai HBO Triple Heads To StubHub Center – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=6 July 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-07-06}} The event also features WBO champion Naoya Inoue and it was verbally agreed that should González win against Rungvisai, then he and Inoue will meet in a unification bout.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/hbo-sports-head-thrilled-by-super-fly-card-on-september-9th--118649|title = HBO Sports Head 'Thrilled' by 'Super Fly' Card on September 9th| date=19 July 2017 }} It was confirmed the fight would be shown live on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom.{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10983529/roman-gonzalez-rematch-with-srisaket-sor-rungvisai-live-on-sky-sports|title=Roman Gonzalez rematch with Srisaket Sor Rungvisai live on Sky Sports|work=Sky Sports|access-date=2017-09-03|language=en}}

At the 7-day weigh in on 3 September González weighed 119.8 lbs and Rungvisai weighed in at 119 lbs. Per WBC rules, both boxers were required to weigh no more than 121 lbs.{{Cite web|url=http://www.worldboxingnews.net/2017/09/03/news/roman-gonzalez-srisaket-rungvisai-under-mark-at-7-day-weigh-in|title=Srisaket Rungvisai, Roman Gonzalez on target at 7-day scaling|last=Bahrmasel|first=Bernie|website=WBN – World Boxing News|access-date=2017-09-03}} At the official weigh-in one day before the fight, González tipped the scales at 114.8 lbs, while Sor Rungvisai weighed 115 lbs.{{Cite web|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2017/9/8/16278496/superfly-weigh-in-results-gonzalez-114-8-rungvisai-115|title = SuperFly Weigh-In Results: Gonzalez 114.8, Rungvisai 115|date = 8 September 2017}} González would be paid a career high $600,000 purse, while Sor Rungvisai would make $170,000.{{Cite web|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2017/9/9/16281706/hbos-superfly-purses-for-srisaket-gonzalez-ii-and-undercard|title=HBO's SuperFly: Purses for Srisaket-Gonzalez II and undercard|date=9 September 2017}}

On fight night, in front of a pro-González sell-out crowd of 7,418, González suffered his second consecutive career defeat and failed to regain the WBC title, after being knocked out by Sor Rungvisai in the fourth round of their rematch. The opening round started with both fighters throwing heavy shots. Sor Rungvisai began to work the body straight away. In round 4, González was knocked down hard from a left to the head. González beat the count getting up at 7, but on unsteady legs. Rungvisai then finished the badly hurt González with a right to the head that put him down flat on his back. Referee Tom Taylor didn't bother with a count, waiving the fight off at 1:18 of the round. González was taken to the hospital after the fight for precaution. Like the first fight, an accidental headbutt occurred in round 1, when González complained and the crowd booed, the referee warned Rungvisai.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/srisaket-sor-rungvisai-knocks-out-roman-gonzalez-four--120332|title=Srisaket Sor Rungvisai Knocks Out Roman Gonzalez in Four! – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=10 September 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-10}} The fight averaged an audience of 796,000 viewers on HBO and peaked at 835,000 viewers.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-sor-rungvisai-rematch-peaked-835k-viewers-on-hbo--120473|title=Chocolatito-Sor Rungvisai Rematch Peaked at 835K Viewers on HBO – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=14 September 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-19}}

After the fight, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai stated that he had prepared for four months in order to knock González out, "I trained very hard for four months. I fought for Thailand, and this is what I dedicate this fight to, Thailand. For the first fight I only trained for two months. I knew I was going to knock him out." González was humble in defeat, "We were both trading punches, but his were harder, and they landed harder. I was very hurt the second time when I was knocked down, but I think I'll be OK."{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-i-very-hurt-dropped-second-time--120343|title=Chocolatito: I Was Very Hurt When Dropped The Second Time – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=10 September 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-10}} Promoter Tom Loeffler also spoke to HBO in regards to González's future, "I don't think he's done. When you fight a guy like Srisaket, he took the opportunity of winning the lottery. He beat the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter and beat him in New York, and then he beat him more convincingly the second time. Now he has to be considered one of the best in the world. You saw Roman really packed the house, and Srisaket came into a hostile environment and proved he is a true champion. He has tremendous punching power." CompuBox stats showed that Rungvisai landed 80 of his 291 punches thrown (27%) and González landed 58 of 212 (27%). All 80 of Rungvisai's landed punches were power shots.{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11028749/sor-rungvisai-vs-gonzalez-ii-srisaket-sor-rungvisai-crushes-roman-gonzalez-in-california|title=Sor Rungvisai vs Gonzalez II: Srisaket Sor Rungvisai crushes Roman Gonzalez in California|work=Sky Sports|access-date=2017-09-10|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/20653990/srisaket-sor-rungvisai-knocks-roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-fourth-round|title=Sor Rungvisai KOs 'Chocolatito' to retain belt|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2017-09-10}}{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/sor-rungvisai-vs-gonzalez-rematch-compubox-punch-stats--120362|title=Sor Rungvisai vs. Gonzalez Rematch – CompuBox Punch Stats – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=10 September 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-09-11}} González stated that he wouldn't return to the flyweight division, as he was unable to reach the 112 lbs limit and that he was interested in competing for a fifth world title, but he was also considering retirement.{{Cite web|url=http://www.hoy.com.ni/2017/09/10/537628/|title="Chocolatito" piensa en la posibilidad de retirarse|last=Membreño|first=Rosa|date=2017-09-10|website=Periódico Hoy|access-date=2017-09-11}}

At that moment, any future talk of a fight between Inoue and Gonzalez was dead in the water.{{Cite web|url=https://3kingsboxing.com/naoya-inoue-vs-roman-gonzalez-never-was/|title= Naoya Inoue vs Roman Gonzalez|website=3kingsboxing.com|date= 23 October 2023|access-date=2023-10-23}}

Weeks after the fight, González stated that he was planning to continue his career. Teiken Promotions was said to be looking to arrange a fight against WBA champion Kal Yafai.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-continue-career-eyes-kal-yafai-wba-title--120982|title=Roman Gonzalez To Continue Career, Eyes Kal Yafai's WBA Title – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=30 September 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-10-02}} Yafai replied to reports that González wanted to fight him by replying, "Happy days, I’ve wanted González for a long time," although he would have to get past his mandatory fight first.{{Cite news|url=https://www.ringtv.com/518875-kal-yafai-responds-to-chocolatito-challenge-ive-wanted-gonzalez-for-a-long-time/|title=Kal Yafai responds to Chocolatito challenge: 'I've wanted Gonzalez for a long time' – The Ring|date=2017-10-01|work=The Ring|access-date=2017-10-02|language=en-US}} González spoke out regarding challenging Yafai after being ranked # 2 by the WBA, "It is a blessing to know that the WBA has placed me at number 2 in the rankings. I am grateful to [WBA President] Gilberto Mendoza for this opportunity."{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-i-want-fight-yafai-not-ruling-out-inoue-clash--121005|title=Chocolatito: I Want To Fight Yafai, Not Ruling Out Inoue Clash – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=October 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-10-02}} González wished to take up an interim fight, before challenging for a world title. He said, "I am never going to [enter the Yafai] fight in bad condition. I take good care of myself, that's why I think I need a preparation fight." After being trained by Japanese coach Sendai Tanaka in his last fight, González made his intentions clear that he wanted to work with Félix Trinidad's father and ex trainer Don Felix.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-wants-interim-fight-trinidads-father-trainer--121139|title=Roman Gonzalez Wants Interim-Fight, Trinidad's Father as Trainer! – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=5 October 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-10-06}} Fellow countryman and former two-weight world champion Rosendo Álvarez advised González to return to flyweight, stating it would be too much for him to remain at super flyweight and even more dangerous to move up to bantamweight.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-being-advised-forget-yafai-return-112-pounds--121975|title=Chocolatito Being Advised To Forget Yafai, Return To 112-Pounds – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=31 October 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-10-31}} According to Tom Loeffler on 22 November it was believed that González would make his ring return around April or May 2018, possibly on the undercard of a Gennady Golvokin fight. Loeffler also stated that González would not be part of the planned SuperFly 2 card.{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-return-april-possibly-on-canelo-ggg-ii--122683|title=Chocolatito To Return in April or May, Possibly on Canelo-GGG II – Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=22 November 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=2017-11-22}}

On 11 January 2018 González hired Gustavo Herrera as his head trainer, from Managua, Nicaragua at the Roger Deshon gym and stated his intention to remain at super flyweight.{{Cite news|url=http://www.worldboxingnews.net/2018/01/11/news/roman-gonzalez-hires-new-trainer-wants-nicaragua-fight-but-admits-trepidation-about-return-from-ko|title=Roman Gonzalez hires new trainer, wants Nicaragua fight but admits trepidation about return from KO|last=RINGSIDE|work=WBN – World Boxing News|access-date=2018-01-11|language=en-gb}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-remain-115-no-intention-dropping--124213|title=Roman Gonzalez Will Remain at 115, No Intention of Dropping|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-01-12|language=en-us}} On 8 April veteran Mexican boxer Pedro Guevara (30–3–1, 17 KOs) was being lined up to be González's next opponent, likely for Golovkin's undercard on 5 May 2018. Terms had been agreed for a 10-round super flyweight fight between both parties, however the fight had not been announced until the date and venue was confirmed.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-vs-pedro-guevara-play-golovkin-card--127002|title=Roman Gonzalez vs. Pedro Guevara in Play For Golovkin Card|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-04-13|language=en-us}} After Golovkin vs. Martirosyan was announced for 5 May at the StubHub Center in Carson, promoter Loeffler confirmed that González would appear on the undercard.{{Cite news|url=https://www.ringtv.com/533740-roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-slotted-golovkin-martirosyan-hbo-undercard/|title=Roman 'Chocolatito' Gonzalez slotted for Golovkin-Martirosyan HBO undercard – The Ring|date=2018-04-18|work=The Ring|access-date=2018-04-19|language=en-US}} On 24 April González released a statement saying he would not fight on 5 May after an opponent was not officially confirmed. He went on to state that he would likely return in June 2018 in Nicaragua, where he last fought in 2015.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-appears-unlikely-golovkin-vanes-card--127509|title=Chocolatito Appears Unlikely For Golovkin-Vanes Card|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-04-25|language=en-us}} According to González's manager, Carlos Blandon, Gonzalez was unable to get a VISA. Three scheduled appointments in the space on 30 days had been cancelled. Blandon stated they were still waiting on the VISA issue as González wanted a camp outside of Nicaragua. He also stated González would likely return in September 2018.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-eyes-united-states-return-september--128466|title=Roman Gonzalez Eyes United States Return in September|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-05-25|language=en-us}} On 30 May 2018 it was reported the California State Athletic Commission required González to pass new neurological examinations before the ban would be lifted. González initially passed the exams after his knockout loss to Rungvisai in September 2017. The reason for the additional tests would be for precautionary measure.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-suspended-indefinitely-by-csac-needs-neuro-exams--128629|title='Chocolatito' Suspended Indefinitely By CSAC, Needs Neuro Exams|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-05-31|language=en-us}}

According to ElNuevoDiario on 13 July 2018 González was looking for an opponent for the undercard of the Canelo Álvarez vs. Gennady Golovkin rematch on 15 September at the T-Mobile Arena in Paradise, Nevada. At the time, the two likely opponents were Pedro Guevara and former world minimumweight champion Moisés Fuentes (25–5–1, 14 KOs).{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingnews24.com/2018/07/roman-gonzalez-possible-for-canelo-vs-ggg-ii-undercard-on-sept-15/|title=Roman Gonzalez possible for Canelo vs. GGG II undercard on Sept.15 » Boxing News|date=2018-07-13|work=Boxing News 24|access-date=2018-08-03|language=en-US}} On 20 August it was announced that González would fight Fuentes in a 10-round bout to open the PPV telecast.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/24429019/jaime-munguia-david-lemieux-roman-gonzalez-set-gennady-golovkin-canelo-alvarez-undercard|title=Munguia, Lemieux on GGG-Canelo undercard|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-08-28|language=en}} González returned to winning ways after he knocked out Fuentes in round 5. Fuentes was well beaten and bloody at the time referee Robert Byrd halted the fight, at 1 minute, 44 seconds. Fuentes lacked the power to hurt González whenever he did land. González dominated Fuentes with sustained combinations in the same way he had done prior to his two losses. Fuentes suffered a cut over his right eye in round 2, with the dripping blood giving him problems with his visibility. González did not target the eye, instead he mixed up his shots from body to head. There was little action in round 1, as both boxers fought cautiously.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-knocks-moises-fuentes-out-cold-results--131862|title=Roman Gonzalez Knocks Moises Fuentes Out Cold in Fifth|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-10-05|language=en-us}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.ringtv.com/543702-chocolatito-is-back-roman-gonzalez-returns-with-spectacular-fifth-round-ko-of-moises-fuentes/|title=Chocolatito is back: Roman Gonzalez returns with spectacular fifth-round KO of Moises Fuentes – The Ring|date=2018-09-15|work=The Ring|access-date=2018-10-05|language=en-US}} González earned $200,000, whilst Fuentes made $35,000 for the bout. CompuBox showed that González landed 145 of 390 punches thrown (37%), while Fuentes landed only 47 of his 244 thrown (19%).{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/24691111/jaime-munguia-demolishes-brandon-cook-david-lemieux-smokes-gary-osullivan|title=Munguia demolishes Cook; Lemieux smokes O'Sullivan|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-10-05|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/24679034/gennady-golovkin-canelo-alvarez-quickly-separated-weigh-middleweight-title-rematch|title=GGG: Canelo's weigh-in antics a show of 'fear'|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-10-05|language=en}}

On 31 October it was reported that González would return to the ring on 8 December 2018 on the final televised boxing card on HBO. According to ESPN Deportes, the likely opponent was former world champion Pedro Guevara (32–3–1, 19 KOs) in a 10-round bout.{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-vs-pedro-guevara-play-december-8--133307|title=Roman Gonzalez vs. Pedro Guevara in Play For December 8|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=2018-11-19|language=en-us}} A day later, the fight was announced to take place at the StubHub Center in Carson, California.{{Cite news|url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2018/11/1/18052126/roman-gonzalez-pedro-guevara-rebooked-for-december-8th|title=Gonzalez-Guevara rebooked for December 8th|work=Bad Left Hook|access-date=2018-11-19}}{{Cite news|url=http://espndeportes.espn.com/boxeo/nota/_/id/4930288/ex-campeon-pedro-guevara-seria-el-rival-de-chocolatito-gonzalez|title=Pedro Guevara será rival de Chocolatito|work=ESPNdeportes.com|access-date=2018-11-19|language=es}}

On 25 November Tom Loeffler told ESPN, González was unable to shake off a knee injury he suffered during his training camp and would no longer fight Guevara on the card. González would be out for up to six weeks following an arthroscopic surgery. Loeffler revealed Juan Francisco Estrada would likely replace González and fight Guevara on the same card.{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/25374846/roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-withdraws-fight-vs-pedro-guevara|title='Chocolatito' Gonzalez pulls out of Guevara fight|work=ESPN.com|access-date=2018-11-26|language=en}}

In early December, González underwent successful surgery on his right knee.{{Cite web|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/roman-gonzalez-undergoes-successful-knee-surgery--134321|title=Roman Gonzalez Undergoes Successful Knee Surgery|website=BoxingScene.com|date=4 December 2018 |language=en-us|access-date=2018-12-05}}

González returned to the ring on 23 December 2019 on the undercard of the Ryōta Murata – Steven Butler fight in Yokohama, Japan. His opponent was Diomel Diocos (14–6–3, 4 KOs). González wasted no time and quickly broke down the overmatched Diocos with powerful combinations, staggering him badly in the second round. Referee Yuji Fukuchi stopped the action and gave Diocos a standing eight count for him to collect himself. But as soon as the fight resumed, González continued to land punches on Diocos at free will, prompting the referee to step in and stop the fight thus giving González the victory via second-round stoppage.{{cite web |title=Boxing Results: Roman Gonzalez destroys Diomel Diocos |url=https://www.boxingnews24.com/2019/12/boxing-results-roman-gonzalez-destroys-diomel-diocos/ |website=Boxing News 24 |date=23 December 2019 |access-date=23 June 2020}}

On 14 January 2020, Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn announced González would challenge the WBA (Regular) super-flyweight champion Kal Yafai on 29 February at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. The fight was on the undercard Mikey Garcia vs. Jessie Vargas welterweight main event.

Despite having some success in the early rounds, Yafai was unable to fully capitalize on his bigger size and reach advantage, allowing González to get close and dictate the pace of the fight with his relentless pressure and bruising body shots. González' high work rate and body attacks began to take an early toll on the champion who became increasingly slower and fatigued, even losing his mouthpiece several times over the fight. In the seventh round González unloaded on a fatigued Yafai and a sweeping right hand knocked the champion off balance. Yafai finally fell to the canvas late in the eighth round from an accumulation of punches, but he got up to finish the final few seconds of the round on his feet. González quickly ended the fight in the ninth round after landing a huge overhand right that put Yafai on the floor for the second time. Referee Luis Pabon waved off the fight at the 0:29 mark, awarding González the WBA (Regular) title via ninth-round TKO. At the time of the stoppage González was ahead on all three judges' scorecards with 80–71, 77–74 and 78–73. He was later promoted to WBA (Super) champion, and said he plans on fighting the other champions at super flyweight to unify the titles.{{cite web |title=Chocolatito Beats Down, Knocks Out Kal Yafai in Ninth Round |url=https://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-beats-down-knocks-out-kal-yafai-ninth-results--147230 |website=boxingscene.com |date=29 February 2020 |access-date=23 June 2020}}{{cite web |title=Roman Gonzalez stops Kal Yafai in nine, targets unification |url=https://www.ringnews24.com/2020/03/01/roman-gonzalez-stops-kal-yafai-in-nine-targets-unification/ |website=Ring News 24 |date=March 2020 |access-date=23 June 2020}}

On 23 October 2020, Gonzalez faced mandatory challenger and WBA #3 ranked Israel Gonzalez.{{Cite web|title=Gonzalez vs Gonzalez - News, Tape, Ringwalk, TV, Streaming & Tickets|url=https://box.live/fights/gonzalez-vs-gonzalez/|access-date=2021-03-28|website=Box.Live|language=en-US}} Gonzalez successfully defended his belt, by dominating through most of the fight and earning a unanimous decision victory, 118–110, 117–111 and 116–112.{{Cite web|date=2020-10-23|title=Roman Gonzalez overcomes youthful Israel Gonzalez, batters him to retain title|url=https://www.ringtv.com/611958-roman-gonzalez-overcomes-youthful-israel-gonzalez-batters-him-to-retain-title/|access-date=2021-03-28|website=The Ring}}#

On 13 March 2021, Gonzalez faced Juan Francisco Estrada, the WBC and The Ring super flyweight champion. This was the second time the pair had met, after their first fight in 2012 ended in a unanimous decision win for Gonzalez. Both fighters threw a lot of punches, with Compubox crediting both with 2,529 thrown punches combined, making it the busiest fight at 115 pounds the company has ever tracked. In a very close and thrilling fight, Gonzalez seemed to have narrowly outlanded Estrada. However, Estrada earned the split-decision victory having two judges score the fight in his favor, 117–111 and 115–113, while the third judge had it 115–113 for Gonzalez.{{Cite web|last=Idec|first=Keith|title=Juan Francisco Estrada Decisions Chocolatito Gonzalez in Classic War To Unify|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/juan-francisco-estrada-decisions-chocolatito-gonzalez-results--156125|access-date=2021-03-28|website=BoxingScene.com|date=14 March 2021 |language=en-us}}

Gonzalez was expected to face Juan Francisco Estrada in a trilogy bout in the main event of a DAZN broadcast card on 5 March 2022, at Pechanga Arena in San Diego, California. Estrada was forced to withdraw from the fight due to a positive COVID-19 test and was replaced by the WBC flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez, who stepped in on a six-weeks notice.{{cite web |last1=BoxingScene Staff |title=Chocolatito Gonzalez vs. Julio Cesar Martinez Officially Set For March 5 In San Diego |url=https://www.boxingscene.com/chocolatito-gonzalez-vs-julio-cesar-martinez-officially-set-march-5-san-diego--163674 |website=boxingscene.com |access-date=25 January 2022 |date=25 January 2022}} Gonzalez won the fight by unanimous decision, with the judges scoring the fight 118–110, 117–111 and 116–112 all in favor of Gonzalez.{{cite web |last1=Christ |first1=Scott |title=Chocolatito vs Martinez full fight video highlights and results: Chocolatito Gonzalez dominates Julio Cesar Martinez, wins decision |url=https://www.badlefthook.com/2022/3/6/22963612/chocolatito-vs-martinez-full-fight-video-highlights-results-scores-decision-dazn-boxing-news-2022 |website=badlefthook.com |access-date=7 March 2022 |date=6 March 2022}}

On 3 September 2022, it was announced that Gonzalez would face Juan Francisco Estrada for the third time in his professional career on 3 December.{{cite web |last1=Gray |first1=Tom |title=Juan Francisco Estrada-Roman Gonzalez Rivalry To Reconvene On Dec. 3 |url=https://www.ringtv.com/643871-juan-francisco-estrada-roman-gonzalez-rivalry-to-reconvene-on-dec-3/ |website=ringtv.com |access-date=9 September 2022 |date=4 September 2022}} The bout headlined a DAZN broadcast card, which took place at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.{{cite web |last1=Ring TV |title=Estrada-Chocolatito III Lands In Arizona With Martinez-Arroyo As Co-main Event |url=https://www.ringtv.com/644819-estrada-chocolatito-iii-lands-in-arizona-with-martinez-arroyo-as-co-main-event/ |website=ringtv.com |access-date=4 October 2022 |date=3 October 2022}} Gonzalez lost the fight by majority decision, with scores of 114–114. 115–113 and 116–112.{{cite web |last1=Donovan |first1=Jake |title=Estrada Overcomes Chocolatito's Late Rally, Wins Majority Decision in Trilogy |url=https://www.boxingscene.com/estrada-overcomes-chocolatito-late-rally-wins-majority-decision-trilogy--170917 |website=boxingscene.com |access-date=4 December 2022 |date=3 December 2022}}

González is scheduled to face Rober Barrera in a 10-round bantamweight bout at Polideportivo Alexis Argüello in Managua, Nicaragua on July 12, 2024.{{cite news |last1=Iskenderov |first1=Parviz |title=Roman Gonzalez faces Rober Barrera at 118 lbs in Nicaragua in July |url=https://www.fightmag.com/roman-gonzalez-faces-rober-barrera-in-nicaragua-in-july/ |work=FIGHTMAG |date=21 June 2024}} González won the fight by TKO in the 10th round.{{cite news |last1=Wellings |first1=Steve |title=Roman 'Chocolatito' Gonzalez stops Rober Barrera in round 10 of homecoming bout |url=https://boxingnewsonline.net/roman-chocolatito-gonzalez-stops-rober-barrera-in-round-10-of-homecoming-bout/ |work=boxingnewsonline |date=13 July 2024}}

{{BoxingRecordSummary

|draws=

|nc=

|ko-wins=42

|ko-losses=1

|dec-wins=10

|dec-losses=3

|dq-wins=

|dq-losses=

}}

• WBA minimumweight champion (105 lbs)
• WBA light flyweight champion (108 lbs)
• WBC flyweight champion (112 lbs)
• WBA (Super) super flyweight champion (115 lbs)
• WBC super flyweight champion (115 lbs)

• The Ring flyweight champion (112 lbs)

• WBA interim light flyweight champion (108 lbs)

• WBA Fedecentro light flyweight champion (108 lbs)
• WBA Fedelatin light flyweight champion (108 lbs)
• Nicaraguan light flyweight champion (108 lbs)

• WBC Diamond super flyweight champion

González is managed by Carlos Blandon Vidaurre, and is promoted by Japan's Teiken Promotions.{{Cite web|url=http://www.notifight.com/artman2/publish/Exclusivo_8/Boxeador_Latino_del_Mes_Rom_n_Gonz_lez031110.php|title=Boxeador Latino del Mes: Román González|date=3 November 2010|publisher=NotiFight.com|language=es|access-date=26 August 2011}}

González is divorced, has two children and lives in Managua, Nicaragua. He has stated that although he fights for honour and glory, the main reason is to provide for his family. He is a practicing Christian and a publicly open supporter of the FSLN political group in Nicaragua.{{Cite web|url=https://www.ringtv.com/389147-roman-gonzalez-the-only-way-to-become-better-is-to-fight-the-best/|title=ROMAN GONZALEZ: 'THE ONLY WAY TO BECOME BETTER IS TO FIGHT THE BEST'|date=11 May 2015|publisher=RingTV.com|access-date=20 July 2019}}

• List of super flyweight boxing champions
• List of flyweight boxing champions
• List of light flyweight boxing champions
• List of minimumweight boxing champions
• List of WBA world champions
• List of WBC world champions
• List of The Ring world champions
• List of boxing quadruple champions

{{Reflist}}

• {{Official website|http://teamchocolatito.com/}}
• {{Boxrec|id=319725}}
• [http://www.cyberboxingzone.com/boxing/gonzalez-roman.htm Román González profile] at Cyber Boxing Zone
• [https://box.live/boxers/roman-gonzalez/ Roman Gonzalez - 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 Jimenez}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA Fedecentro
light flyweight champion

|years=6 October 2006 – May 2007
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Carlos Tamara}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-vac|last=Juan Francisco Centeno}}

{{s-ttl|title=Nicaraguan
light flyweight champion

|years=6 October 2006 – December 2011
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Felix Alvarado}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-vac|last=Carlos Melo}}

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

|years=12 May 2007 – 15 September 2008
Won world title}}

{{s-vac|next=Luis Alberto Rios}}

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

{{s-bef|before=Yutaka Niida}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA minimumweight champion

|years=15 September 2008 – November 2010
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Kwanthai Sithmorseng}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-vac|rows=2|last=Juan Carlos Reveco}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA light flyweight champion
Interim title

|years=24 October 2010 – 4 February 2011
Promoted}}

{{s-vac|next=José Alfredo Rodríguez}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA light flyweight champion

|years=4 February 2011 – 30 November 2012
Promoted}}

{{s-vac|next=Kazuto Ioka}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-vac|last=Giovanni Segura}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA light flyweight champion
Super title

|years=30 November 2012 – 14 January 2014
Vacated}}

{{s-vac}}

{{s-bef|rows=2|before=Akira Yaegashi}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBC flyweight champion

|years=5 September 2014 – 1 October 2016
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=Juan Hernández}}

{{s-break}}

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

|years=5 September 2014 – 1 October 2016
Vacated}}

{{s-vac|next=}}

{{s-bef|before=Carlos Cuadras}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBC super flyweight champion

|years=10 September 2016 – 18 March 2017}}

{{s-aft|after=Srisaket Sor Rungvisai}}

{{s-bef|before=Khalid Yafai}}

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

|years=29 February 2020 – 3 March 2020
Promoted}}

{{s-aft|after=Andrew Moloney|as=Regular champion
promoted from interim status}}

{{s-break}}

{{s-vac|last=Vic Darchinyan}}

{{s-ttl|title=WBA super flyweight champion
Super title

|years=3 March 2020 – 13 March 2021}}

{{s-aft|after=Juan Francisco Estrada}}

{{s-ach|ach}}

{{s-bef|before=Floyd Mayweather Jr.}}

{{s-ttl|title=The Ring Pound for Pound #1 boxer

|years=15 September 2015 – 21 March 2017}}

{{s-aft|after=Andre Ward}}

{{s-end}}

{{The Ring magazine Comeback of the Year}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Gonzalez, Roman}}

Category:1987 births

Category:World Boxing Association champions

Category:World Boxing Council champions

Category:World light-flyweight boxing champions

Category:Living people

Category:Nicaraguan male boxers

Category:Boxers from Managua

Category:The Ring (magazine) champions

Category:Mini-flyweight boxers

Category:World mini-flyweight boxing champions

Category:Light-flyweight boxers

Category:Flyweight boxers

Category:Super-flyweight boxers

Category:World flyweight boxing champions

Category:World super-flyweight boxing champions