The Road to Redemption
After a tough setback in his last outing, Wes Mena is back — and more motivated than ever — as he prepares to face Darius “The Destroyer” Mata-Varona at Power Slap 16 in Abu Dhabi. For Mena, this isn’t just another fight; it’s an opportunity to prove that he still belongs among the sport’s elite.
“I’m just focused and ready for the opportunity at hand,” Mena said. “They gave me Darius, and I was grateful. I’m here to solidify my spot and show them why I’m still deserving of being number three — or maybe even higher.”
The Dominican heavyweight burst onto the Power Slap scene with explosive power and charisma, quickly climbing the rankings with his trademark “Boom” intensity. After an early undefeated run and a title shot, Mena now looks to bounce back and remind the world of his knockout potential.
Respect for Darius, but Ready to Test Him
Mena holds deep respect for his opponent, but he makes no mistake about his intentions.
“It’s going to be a banger,” Mena said. “I’ve got a lot of respect for Darius — he’s a GOAT in this sport. But I bring that boom. I bring that intensity. He will be tested.”
The matchup carries extra intrigue for Power Slap fans. Both men are proven finishers with highlight-reel knockouts, and both have fought on international cards before. “I was happy for Darius when he got his KO,” Mena added. “But now he’s going against a guy that’s ranked. I’m here to remind everyone why I’m number three.”
The Underdog Mentality
Despite his success, Mena says he’s used to being underestimated — and he embraces it.
“I’ve been the underdog in all my fights,” he said. “Maybe undersized here and there, but I love it. I don’t care what people think. They put a name on that paper, I show up and do my job.”
That mentality has carried him through every major test so far. Now, facing one of the sport’s most recognizable names, Mena plans to show that his self-belief and experience have evolved into something even more dangerous.
A New Version of “The Boom”
After the title loss, Mena took time to reflect, regroup, and refine. “If I want to get back in title contention, I have to win this match early,” he said. “There were mistakes I made against the champion that won’t happen again. I’m not blaming anyone — it was me. But I’ve learned and I’m coming back stronger.”
He also hinted at a more composed, mature version of himself. “You’re going to see a whole other side of me,” he promised. “Yes, you’re talking to Wes Mena right now, but when the Boom steps on stage, it’s a different person.”
Pride, Heritage, and Representation
For Mena, this fight is about more than rankings — it’s about representing his Dominican heritage on a global stage.
“It means a lot to me to bring that flag to Abu Dhabi,” he said. “My family’s Dominican, and I want to represent my people and shine light on them. I’ve got a big following back home and in Georgia. I want to get more of our audience into Power Slap.”
He credits his family, especially his father, for grounding him. “I’ve been training in Florida and spending time with my pops. Being around him reminds me where I came from,” Mena said. “It keeps me humble and hungry.”
The Calm Before the Boom
Now more centered and confident than ever, Mena feels like he’s entering the best phase of his career. “I’m the best version of myself — mentally, physically, and spiritually,” he said. “Every day I try to get one percent better. I feel great. I’m in a great place, and I’m ready for this.”
And when asked if Darius has ever faced what’s coming for him on fight night? Mena didn’t hesitate:
“Respectfully, he’s in for a rude awakening. I’m going to show him why I’m number three in the world. He’s going to see the Boom in effect.”
Power Slap 16: Abu Dhabi — Wes “The Boom” Mena vs. Darius “The Destroyer” Mata-Varona.
Fireworks guaranteed.