The 32-year-old was dropped in the fourth round and was outworked at times but came through 97-92, 95-94 on two of the judges’ cards after ten rounds to move to 33-3-1.
A third judge gave it 95-94 to Martinez, who lost for the fourth time in 24 contests and has valid claims for a rematch.
Jesus Cuellar defended the WBA ‘regular’ featherweight title for the first time. He finished off Vic Darchinyan in the eighth round after putting him down on the canvas.
Alfredo Angulo put himself back in the win column for the first time since 2012 by pummelling Delroy Raines in five rounds.
Earlier, heavyweight Dominic Breazeale defeated Yasmany Consuegra via third-round KO to move to 15-0.
Oscar Molina dominated Todd Manuel over eight rounds to make it thirteen wins since turning pro.
Welterweight Anthony Flores and lightweight Alejandro Luna recorded unanimous victories on the bill.
Fabian Maidana made it six KO’s from seven wins against David Nelson in just 79 seconds.
Other results
Marvin Sonsona defeated Jonathan Arrellano via MD – 96-94 [2], 95-95. Victor Betancourt and Jessie Roman both won their respective bouts 80-72 on all three scorecards.
