CEBU, Philippines - Highly esteemed Cebu boxing patron Antonio “Bidoy” L. Aldeguer knows that there is a lot a stake not only for his fighters but also for the Philippine boxing in general come the highly-anticipated “Pinoy Pride 8: Philippines vs. Mexico” this Saturday at the Pacific grand ballroom of Waterfront-Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
Aldeguer gamely admitted he's a little bit anxious that his three prized wards - Milan “El Metodico” Melindo, Jason “El Niño” Pagara and Genesis Servania - are going up against dangerous Mexican opponents.
“This is risky, kulbaan pud ko gamay especially for Servania and Pagara. Kay Melindo salig ko kay he's in a high level already pero dili pud kompiyansaan iyang kontra kay kusug pud,” said Aldeguer.
The Bacolod-native Servania (14-0, 5KOs) is girding up for the biggest fight of his budding career as he is pitted against former world title challenger Gerson “El Nene” Guerrero (34-8, 26KOs), while light welterweight prospect Pagara (27-1, 16KOs) is ranged against Mexican knockout artist Rosbel “Lobito” Montoya (12-1, 11KOs).
Before thinking of a world title shot, the undefeated Melindo (24-0, 8KOs) will also have to hurdle first a tough obstacle in the battle-tested Francisco “Chiquita” Rosas (22-8, 13KOs), who earlier vowed to tarnish ALA warrior’s clean record.
“You know, we are doing this to raise the level of competitiveness kay naay uban nga moreklamo nga we are giving our fighters weak opponents. This time, its three Mexican boxers and we all know what they are capable of doing,” added Aldeguer. “This is really a bigtime boxing card.”
Meanwhile, the Mexican ring combatans arrived last night and will be attending a series of press conference. They will hold their own public sparring before the big night. (FREEMAN)