THE International Boxing Federation (IBF) world super flyweight clash between Arthur Villanueva and McJoe Arroyo of Puerto Rico on July 18 at the Don Haskins Convention Center in El Paso, Texas will not be easy for both.
Despite the impressive and unblemished ring record of 26-year-old Villanueva (27-0, 14 KOs), ALA Promotions International president/CEO Michael Aldeguer said that this fight is not a walk in the park, but a tough one for the Negrense fighter.
“Arroyo is a great fighter. It would not be easy for Villanueva. But I trust him that he will make it through because this is the best time for him to take a world championship title,” he said.
The 29-year-old Arroyo is also undefeated with 16 victories with eight knockouts and the current No.1 challenger in the organization. He is also the World Boxing Organization Latino super flyweight champion, who defeated Mark Anthony Geraldo via unanimous decision for an IBF eliminator in December last year.
In another IBF eliminator in June 2014, Arroyo won over Hernan Marquez via an 11th round TKO.
The reigning IBF International super flyweight champion Villanueva, meanwhile, won his last three fights on decisions. In February this year, he defeated Mexican Julio Cesar Miranda via unanimous decision.
The Bago City pride also captured the IBF title over Nicaraguan Henry Maldonado in a split decision victory in Dubai last year. Last April, Villanueva dominated another Mexican Fernando Aguilar in a 10-round clash at Solaire Resort and Casino in Para?aque City.
Asked about his preparation, Villanueva said that he has already adjusted to the climate in the United States and has a great training at the Wild Card gym of Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach.
“I’m confident with my preparation. I’m conditioned and ready for the fight,” he said.
Along with the preparation is controlling his emotion and excitement for the fight. “I’m excited for this fight. I want to take that championship belt. But coach Edito [Villamor] keeps on reminding me to relax and control my emotion, and just stay focus on training,” Villanueva said.
Villamor described his ward’s training as a tough one that will make him ready for the fight.
“Arthur is well-determined to become a world champion. His skills and experience will be his edge over Arroyo,” he added.
Villanueva earned a shot at the title after former champion Zolani Tete of South African refused to accept the challenge from Arroyo and decided to vacate the belt instead.
