Carrington gets title shot without a real test

Castro’s recent filing tells the story. All three of his losses came against the best fighters he faced. Stephen Fulton. Brandon Figueroa. Luis Néry. These defeats did not disqualify him from the competition, but they defined his level. He didn’t beat anyone who changed the direction of the division. He is also returning from a long layoff after losing a close decision to Fulton in late 2024. This version of Castro is competent and experienced. It’s not dangerous in the sense that it reshapes expectations. For Carrington, this distinction is important.

At 28 years old, Carrington no longer operates on prospect time. It’s moved with a level of caution usually reserved for fighters who are still learning how to become professionals. This caution became noticeable after his majority decision victory over Sulaiman Segawa. Segawa is clumsy and delicate, but not elite. When the fight became uncomfortable, Carrington struggled to control it. He was not presented as being untalented. It was presented as unfinished.

The response of his masters was revealing. Instead of leading it to a clearer test, the path narrowed. Mateus Heita followed him. Now Castro. Each move reduced the risk rather than answering questions.

This is how you protect a fighter. That’s not how you build one. Winning a vacant title under these conditions creates a strange outcome. Carrington can walk away with a belt, but without the authority that usually comes with it. The doubts do not disappear. They simply change shape. Instead of asking if he’s ready, people will ask who he actually beat.

The fans’ frustration is not because Castro is unworthy. This is the opportunity cost. Featherweight is full of fights that would have required Carrington to show something of substance.

A fight with Nick Ball would have been ugly and demanding. The ball does not allow for clean turns or controlled pace. A fight with Rafael Espinoza would have tested Carrington’s ability to handle size and sustained pressure. Angelo Leo would have offered a meaningful national comparison and recent benchmark for form.

Even a move to junior lightweight would have made more sense for someone who talked about ambition. Emanuel Navarrete and Oscar Valdez represent real danger and real consequences. These struggles carry the risk of loss, but also the reward of clarity.

Instead, this title fight seems designed to end without disruption. A long fight. A clean dashboard. A secure belt without damage. This may be a good deal in the short term, but it does nothing to improve Carrington’s reputation.

Titles always mean something. How they are earned still matters. Carrington has ability. He moves well. He thinks in the ring. But at some point, the advice turns into avoidance and the promise turns into late.

If he wins this fight, he will be a champion on paper. The hardest work will begin the moment the final bell rings.